tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48937552415345953592024-03-14T00:15:08.903-07:00Create Sweet BlissAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-19957053150259363782014-08-08T09:03:00.001-07:002014-08-08T09:03:34.353-07:00Summer and Fall Retreats<span style="font-size: large;">I know it has been some time since I last posted, but I have truly been crazy busy! I wanted to let you in on what I have been up to this summer and what my plans are for the fall. If you are like me you want to share as much time with friends and create as much art as possible. I have found that teaching at retreats this summer has been a wonderful experience and accomplishes both for me.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It all began with the Art Retreat at Glenora Wine Cellars this May. Sherri Welser hosted a lovely art retreat. I was just one of the instructors invited there to teach. We had a great time touring the winery, sharing creative time together and relaxing over wonderful meals in the picturesque Seneca Lake Wine Trail. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iN8TF9qbDQ/U-Tx_mx154I/AAAAAAAAAus/5Y3xWJhMMUE/s1600/0523141523a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iN8TF9qbDQ/U-Tx_mx154I/AAAAAAAAAus/5Y3xWJhMMUE/s1600/0523141523a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Students and teachers showing off their art!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gvoIl5OItjc/U-Tx9GsJwEI/AAAAAAAAAuI/X7yMMmLmNvA/s1600/0522141939+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gvoIl5OItjc/U-Tx9GsJwEI/AAAAAAAAAuI/X7yMMmLmNvA/s1600/0522141939+(1).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In July Kelly Diemond and I hosted an Art Exchange Retreat at Wellnesste Lodge in Taberg, NY where we shared art processes with 6 other artists. We took hikes, sat by the fire, swam in the river and communed with nature. </span><br />
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Here is a group of us watching an art Demo by Martha Perkins.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After these experiences I can tell you that it is wonderful to connect online using social media....I have some of the most supportive friends in that realm,but what I have noticed is that we all need human connection and to be able to get to meet my Internet friends in person is a fantastic, energizing, restorative and spiritual thing. It is hard to even put into words how these types of retreats feed your soul on so many levels! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">These connections I have made are like no others. These people I have met and shared my feelings and creative processes with are special souls who will travel in my heart and forever change the way I connect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am on a path to continue organizing and participating in these retreats. I am very excited to let you know that Registration is open for the Art Retreat at The Lake which is going to be held in Lake Chautauqua, NY. The dates are September 17-19, 2014. I will be teaching along with Cathy Strater. This will be a great opportunity to recharge, re-align your mind body and spirit.</span><br />
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Learn how to make mono prints with the gelli plate.</div>
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Create some beautiful hammered metal earrings!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Learn mixed media painting techniques from Cathy Strate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We can't wait to create with you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-33427407741605175762014-03-11T08:43:00.003-07:002014-03-11T08:43:43.923-07:00Retreats and Workshops<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;">I had the pleasure of teaching a beading class at the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts, located in Little Falls, NY this past weekend. I taught my students how to stitch seed beads into a lovely herringbone bracelet. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: large;">Now most of them did not finish their bracelets during our class, but I did receive a sweet email from one of the students showing me a picture of her finished bracelet. She was so excited that she was able to connect with others and learn a new creative skill....best of all she created her very own bracelet!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;">After seeing her enthusiasm it made a full circle and pushed me to be enthusiastic as well. I think continuing to learn something new is a great way to keep our mind, body and spirit alive. I know that I learn something new just from teaching others. I am currently taking an art class to give me some new skills and reinvigorate my own creative spirit.</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: large;">So here are some upcoming opportunities for you to consider.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">I am teaching 3 more classes at the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts and you can see the schedule for them by clicking this link. </span><a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/Workshops.html"><span style="color: blue;">www.shannoncrandall.com/Workshops.html</span></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">You will also see 2 Retreats that I am teaching at this May and July along side some other fabulous artists/teachers. I have provided the links for these. We would love to share that creative energy with you!</span><br />
<span style="color: #7f0000; font-size: x-large;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">Art Retreat</span> </strong></span><span class="userContent"><span style="color: #7f0000; font-size: x-large;"><strong>NEW WildHeart Art ~ArtWine Art Retreat ~May 21st-23rd 2014!!<br /> Join us for this unique opportunity to enjoy art~ wine and beautiful friends! Full Details on the blog below and registration ( Early Bird and Payment plans available!) at </strong></span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.indigoearth.artfire.com&h=gAQHimcDF&enc=AZOWLzHh9fQAdkm_23hqpoGwkGGasJE4o7TLM6Ns-q-U6bLWD3OkDmklpaPg5hF8isls6Yxxdc1MAqXpecSS4WorURQOGR40vjjCAoD9UVqsioJGHgerggLYa-N4da6z2edcp2oiqMDXOQfbSv5hOK3k&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">www.indigoearth.artfire.com</span></strong></a><br /><br /><a href="http://indigoearth-indigoearth.blogspot.com/2013/11/artwine-art-retreat-may-21st-may-23rd.html" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://indigoearth-indigoearth.blogspot.com/2013/11/artwine-art-retreat-may-21st-may-23rd.html</span></strong></a></span><strong><span style="color: #7f0000; font-size: x-large;"> </span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="UIActionLinks UIActionLinks_bottom" data-ft="{"tn":"=","type":20}"><span style="color: #7f0000;">New Workshops and Creative Retreats 2014<br /><img alt="" src="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/images/f1c6c1a1b776d3c07ff46a5e18f6ed56_jpjx.jpg" height="722" width="722" /><br /><span style="color: black;"> For more details about the workshops and retreats you can also go</span> <span style="color: black;">to</span> <a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/">www.shannoncrandall.com</a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: large;">If you have any questions please leave a comment!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span id="goog_1983245818"></span><span id="goog_1983245819"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-42024844145287100472013-11-11T06:35:00.000-08:002013-11-11T06:35:13.893-08:00Balancing Act<span style="font-size: large;">Life is full of many opportunities and daily tasks that need to get done, but there are only so many hours in a day! My mind spins and twirls with all the ideas of things that I want to try, that I want to revisit and the things that I have to get done like doing the laundry, making dinner paying the bills.....well you get the idea people. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Balance seems to be the hardest achievement anyone can accomplish in any profession, but lets get serious here, when you are creative and that is what you live and breathe, it can be a challenge to stay on track on any given day. I am most definitely attracted to any project that will fulfill my need for color, working with my hands, using my imagination and following my own rules! So you may ask yourself how do I keep on track to get all of the left brained business stuff done that needs to happen for my creative business to be successful.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Well in an attempt to answer that question, I will give you my tips for making the most of each and everyday. I know that for me, the sooner I get into my studio the better, so I usually plan to spend the first two hours of my morning on the computer updating my bookkeeping, my social media, my website and any other computer related work. I also am a list maker. The minute I have a list my instincts are to get those tasks done so that I can have the pleasure of crossing them off my list. For me the scratched off list is such a wonderful thing to see, it makes me feel as though I have accomplished something. And yes there are many lists that I make that don't get completed in one day....so no pressure. I know that if it is a long list then I can give myself a couple of days to get it done.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I actually use my creative process as my reward for completing my other tasks. Once I figured out that this was the best motivator for me, I became more organized and just want to get all of that boring left brained work out of the way. This is how I began to achieve more balance in my life. How ever it works for you.....implement a system that lights the way to your success.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let me know what works for you!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-8169623499293011042013-09-10T06:56:00.000-07:002013-09-10T06:56:07.016-07:00Recap of the Season<span style="font-size: large;">Good morning everyone! It is a bit rainy today and as I am sitting here typing I realize just as the weather and seasons are changing, my focus and my goals are changing as well. After a very successful show season this summer, my focus will now be on the Gallery Co-op where I sell my work and creating workshops. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Before I go any further into this conversation though, I must thank all of my family and friends for their support this year! I couldn't have done it with out you guys! As many of you know creating is only a small part of doing Art Shows. The planning of.... and setting up and tearing down of a booth is both physically and mentally tiring at times. I am most grateful for the hard work my parents and husband put in every year to help me do these shows......and in the end it is always worth the effort.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, since I haven't written a blog post in quite some time I thought I would just give you a little recap of what I did this summer and what I will be working on this fall.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I showed my artwork and jewelry at 3 local shows this summer. The line up started at the Syracuse Arts and Crafts Festival. Now this is a great show centered around Columbus Circle in downtown Syracuse, NY. It is family friendly and features about 260 fine artists from around the country. I am proud to be juried into this show since I am a native of Syracuse.</span> <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pwkUIzUd0cY/Ui8ectB62QI/AAAAAAAAAbc/M_3ibYJcQuk/s1600/Love+Birds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pwkUIzUd0cY/Ui8ectB62QI/AAAAAAAAAbc/M_3ibYJcQuk/s320/Love+Birds.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Above are a few of the paintings I sold in Syracuse. Funny how I remember the shows by which paintings I sold.</span></div>
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The next show I did this summer was the Clinton Music and Art Festival located in Clinton , NY. This is a sweet little one day show that happens to be held in the same town where Artisans' Corner is located. Artisans' Corner is the gallery where I sell my work. As a one day show it is a bit rough with the setup and tear down, but again the response I get from customers is overwhelming there and well worth the hard work. Below are a few of the paintings I sold in Clinton.</div>
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My last show of the Season is Oneida Craft Days. It is located in my home town of Oneida, NY. It is a two day show and is run by the Madison County Historical Society, which I am a member of. The tents are setup on the lawn of the one of the earliest Mansions built in Oneida. It is the home of the Historical Society and is right in the heart of the South side of Oneida. Oneida really supported me this year....I sold 8 paintings at this last show bringing my total to 32 paintings sold since this all began in July. A glimpse of some of the paintings I sold in Oneida.</div>
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</span><span style="font-size: large;">Dreams can come true if you work hard and share your joy with others!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now as I said I will be focusing on creating new artwork and jewelry for Artisans' Corner this fall as well as developing new workshops. I will be teaching a workshop in May of 2014 here in upstate NY on the Seneca Wine Trail with Sherri Welser. I will have more details soon! Remember to share your joy with others!</span><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-39503156192390396342013-07-05T08:01:00.004-07:002013-07-05T08:01:59.803-07:00Have Cake!<span style="font-size: large;">It is funny how I have been wanting to paint foods that I can no longer eat due to food allergies. My most recent grouping includes coffee, cupcakes and a big birthday cake! I have fond memories of eating and drinking these foods and beverages and decided that if I couldn't eat them myself I could still paint them. And hey by the way they are calorie free, they never get stale and I don't have to feel guilty by just looking at them. This was a huge change in my life and I had to basically relearn how to cook and feed myself all over again because all of the rules for me had changed. I had to eliminate all grain, almost all dairy, caffeine, sugar, alcohol and vinegar or fermented foods. I laugh because most people say what's left? I eat a lot of meat, veggies, nuts and seeds and a small amount of fruit. Don't feel sorry for me, it is something I have learned to live with and I feel much better eliminating all those things from my diet, but most importantly it taught me that I could make drastic changes and survive well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now this scenario can be connected to most things that happen in our lives. We have all had to adapt and change as things move forward and develop. I have found strength in challenging situations and even though it may not be painless to go through, I will not let detours stop me from going forward. Don't let your road blocks shut down your dreams. I have used this philosophy in all that I do....and I have had many road blocks along the way. It just forces me to seek out other solutions and to create multiple plans of action to get to where I need to go. I have learned many new skills and adopted new behaviors from these detours and gained in so many ways personally, I can't even count them all.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't let the fear of change stop you! Fight back by learning some new tricks, you will be proud of yourself and you will continue to grow personally and professionally. As I say to people Have your Cake in whatever form that might be!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-78543862205007182002013-06-15T14:17:00.000-07:002013-06-15T14:17:17.185-07:00Re-connect It does my heart, mind and body good to get out and surround myself with creative spirits who want to learn and make things with their hands. I Co- taught a felted bead making jewelry class this weekend with Tony Galbraith, who is a local wool felting artist and weaver. We spent the last two days outside in Tony's back yard talking, felting, beading and connecting with nature and each other. No cell phones, no computers just our materials, imaginations and creativity. It was just what I needed after a busy week! <br />
So take a look at our fun projects we made!<br />
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Some of the felted beads.....</div>
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Earrrings made with seed beads and felted beads....</div>
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This was a two day process.....Tony taught us how to make the wool beads on Friday. They had to dry overnight! Saturday we embellished the felted beads and I taught everyone how to combine the felted beads with seed beads, gemstones and wire to create the beautiful earrings and bracelets you see pictured! It was a match made in heaven and as you can see the jewelry turned out wonderful. <br />
Collaborating in this way to teach workshops is fun and really gives the students exposure to more than one technique during the workshop. I would have to say that two heads are better than one and I really enjoyed working with Tony! We are currently planning some new workshops that involve seed beading techniques and felting. We will both be posting a schedule a soon as we have all the details! So, if this looks like fun you'll get another chance to sign up for a workshop!<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-58536507993611725092013-06-09T09:22:00.000-07:002013-06-09T09:22:02.486-07:00Painting ClassI taught my first Mixed Media Painting Workshop this Saturday and I wanted to share some of the highlights with you. <br />
Although the weather wasn't as nice as it could have been, we still enjoyed being outside and in my garage. I pulled out all of the stuff I love to create with which included paint, paper, water, stencils a plethora of marking tools (rubber stamps, cardboard, combs, egg cartons, paper towel tubes, you get the idea ) ......we even used spray paint! It was an exploration of sorts that was only limited by each person's imagination. <br />
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Paintings in progress........</div>
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Lots of color and markings were made! </div>
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We had fun discovering the images that emerged as we journeyed through our process of layering. It was apparent as we moved through the different stages of our work that more than just painting was occurring.....it was quite obvious that whatever we were currently facing in our own lives was being channeled onto our canvases. Some of us had a difficult time letting go and covering up parts of the canvas which impeded moving forward..... while others discovered they had created self portraits. This was a great creative therapy session and after teaching this first session I am planning a second one! <br />
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Sometimes you have to get messy to wade through what is stopping you from moving forward in your life. I am a big believer in doing. I am at heart a true "maker" and mixed media art is a great vehicle to use to get that flow going forward.<br />
I feel happy and rejuvenated from holding this class and I think I learned just as much from my students as they did from me yesterday. You can't beat face to face communication....there is no substitute, and I think as a society we are on the computer so much that we have become very disconnected. <br />
It is time to reconnect with yourself and others and taking art classes is a great way to do that. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hG4MvvFeKvI/UbSlOYnne2I/AAAAAAAAAYk/svMHTccd9rI/s1600/2013-06-08+17.17.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hG4MvvFeKvI/UbSlOYnne2I/AAAAAAAAAYk/svMHTccd9rI/s320/2013-06-08+17.17.23.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1oKJOBI6pKE/UbSlSHm50oI/AAAAAAAAAYw/4zW55wR4tYU/s1600/2013-06-08+17.17.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1oKJOBI6pKE/UbSlSHm50oI/AAAAAAAAAYw/4zW55wR4tYU/s320/2013-06-08+17.17.33.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now these paintings I have shown here are all still in the process of being created....they are still evolving and emerging just as we are all still growing, learning and re-connecting!</div>
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I want to thank Kelly Diemond and Lorene Boulter for attending my first workshop. You ladies are truly inspiring and I admire your courage to create a life worth living!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-70424195096308601422013-05-22T06:46:00.000-07:002013-05-22T08:40:34.060-07:00Surtex in Review<span style="font-size: large;">I am back from my information gathering trip to Surtex! I had a blast, meeting friends from Facebook....seeing all of the talented artists and their artwork at Surtex and talking with a few art agents. I must have gathered a hundred business cards and given out just as many. The artists and agents that are setup there are very friendly and so willing to share information. All you have to do is ask. I was bowled over by the sense of community and the creative energy that was pulsing throughout the place. I think it has stoked my ever growing ember deep within me, that keeps pushing me forward. I must say that Surtex is spectacular. I joked the whole time while I walked the show with fellow artists Jessica Sporn and Pam Varacek, that I must look like a deer in headlights. It is not everyday that you get to be in the presence of such talent all lodged under one roof. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just to drop a few names we saw Lilla Rogers, Jessica Swift, Kim Gann, Monica Lee and Stephanie Ryan.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Pam, Kim Gann & Me</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODjjW3dd13M/UZzKeOKf8II/AAAAAAAAAWc/UCfn_GO7l0U/s1600/IMG_20130520_114201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODjjW3dd13M/UZzKeOKf8II/AAAAAAAAAWc/UCfn_GO7l0U/s320/IMG_20130520_114201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Me & Monica Lee from Smart Creative Women.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This trip for me was the laying of a foundation....the beginnings of a fantastic journey that I have dreamed of for many years.</span> <br />
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<img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VkuK_7uOjKI/UZzG-RXhUzI/AAAAAAAAAWE/MxcrOUyrEqE/s320/0519131514.jpg" width="320" />From left to Right....Me, Jessica, and Pam.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Surtex is the place to be if you want to become a licensed artist. Now, as I only walked it this year the plan is to set up there next year. I have a whole year to design a fabulous booth and I am ready for the challenge. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I learned so much from Jessica Sporn who acted like my tour guide. She is a seasoned pro who is a licensed artist and has been showing at Surtex since 1996. To see more about Jessica go here.<a href="http://www.jessicasporn.blogspot.com/">http://www.jessicasporn.blogspot.com</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My gears are in motion and my plan is starting to take shape. Nothing is going to hold me back!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you are thinking about Surtex and have any questions please ask I would be glad to give you more information.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wanted to add Pam's Website info too.....<a href="http://www.pamelavaracek.com/">www.pamelavaracek.com</a></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-71671985653259756582013-05-15T11:00:00.000-07:002013-05-15T11:00:05.611-07:00Challenge Yourself<span style="font-size: large;">Everyday I learn something new.....everyday I overcome a challenge. I think life is all about learning and growing.....being able to rise to the challenge and push forward. If things didn't work that way, I think life would be pretty boring. Now don't get me wrong some challenges and stresses are not fun and when life throws you a curve ball it can get rough. I have been fortunate to have lots of friends and family members who have been there for me when things have gotten tough, but they have also been there to share in my accomplishments!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This Friday I will be traveling to NYC to the Surtex show to walk it as an attendee. I am so excited, I haven't been able to sleep! My challenge with this trip is to overcome my fear of being overwhelmed by the talent that I will see at this show....to let it motivate me to grow professionally as an artist and not to look at what they have accomplished and become judgemental of my own work. I think we all feel a bit intimidated at times and this will most certainly test me, but I am ready for the test. I am giving myself the pep talk everyday that we all create in our own way and that there is room for all of our work in the market place. I will also be meeting with some super talented artists while there and hope to glean a bit of their knowledge on setting up and selling at such an important show. I mean come on 7,000 manufacturers and artist agents will be attending this show to discover and license artwork for their home decor products.....this is just huge!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am so glad I am sharing this with you. My level of anxiety and stress have already come down a notch or two....don't worry I am doing some meditation and deep breathing as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So if this wasn't enough excitement to throw out there....I have just applied to Lilla Rogers Global Talent Search. I am totally excited about this as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> On July 1st, I will get an email from Lilla Rogers with an assignment that I must complete and submit to her studio by July 22nd. If Lilla and her team like what they see, I will make it to the short list of artists that will be in the running to win a 2 year licensing contract with her studio. This is where I need your help! People will be able to vote for their favorite submissions. This is the people's choice on this short list and I will need all the votes I can get. To give you more of an idea of what will happen check this out.....</span><br />
<a href="http://www.lillarogers.com/global-talent-search"><span style="font-size: large;">www.lillarogers.com/global-talent-search</span></a><br />
<img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-9494 aligncenter" height="300" src="http://lillarogers.com/wp-content/uploads/next-big-thing-girl-213x300.jpg" title="Are you the next big thing?" width="213" /><span style="font-size: large;">I know the competition will be steep, because there are so many wonderfully talented artist applying, but I know that if I didn't accept this challenge I would always be saying to myself " I should have or I could have.... if I only would have"....... I am not going to be that person!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I will give you notice as to when you will need to vote.....and I promise I will update you on the Surtex Show and my experiences. If you have any questions....please ask me by leaving me a comment. I love to hear from you:)</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-54888864647901059852013-05-12T14:51:00.000-07:002013-05-12T14:51:22.374-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am writing this today, hoping your Mother's Day has been full of happiness and gratitude. I know I enjoyed spending part of this special day with my Mother and Grandmother. Time spent together is the most precious....it is time that you can never retrieve, so spend it wisely with the ones you love!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> It seems as though I haven't written a blog post in quite some time and I thought with the rest of my Mother's Day, that is exactly what I would do. So here I am, sitting at the computer typing away with the house all to myself and the quiet stillness that rejuvenates my spirit. I enjoy writing these blog posts and sharing with you some of my thoughts and feelings. It is almost like a cleansing that I need periodically to wash away the debris that is my busy life. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As I cherish these quiet moments, I am reflecting on what has been accomplished these last couple of weeks. I am happy to say that I finished 4 paintings,taught a private jewelry making workshop,helped my daughter get ready for prom and am getting ready to make my trip to NYC for the Surtex surface and design show. It has been a busy couple of weeks and I am patting myself on the back for all of the things that I started and finished!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;">Here are a few of the things I created these past couple of weeks!</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RB4VGn5F7Cw/UZALFtCsuLI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/ghvdbx5ToCQ/s1600/To+the+Moon+and+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RB4VGn5F7Cw/UZALFtCsuLI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/ghvdbx5ToCQ/s320/To+the+Moon+and+back.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When my life gets this busy I can't get enough creative therapy.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Creative therapy is the best therapy in the world because I can loose myself in my art.....nothing else matters while I am creating! It is the time I need to connect with myself and rebuild the parts of me that have been sucked dry by the everyday stresses of life. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I always encourage my students to try and create something at least once a week. Once you tap into that creative energy it begins to heal you from within. Even surrounding yourself with other people's art and creations can be healing. Make or purchase one thing this month that makes your heart smile and you will begin to feed your soul. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Humans were meant to create....even if you only create ideas, or generate inspiration for others to create....this is your way of creating and contributing. So go into your creative zone and produce some of your own creative therapy.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Again, I hope your Mother's Day was filled with joy....I am pleased to say mine was!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-79218531308816723052013-04-29T07:30:00.000-07:002013-04-29T07:30:06.933-07:00Ready Set Go Fund Me<span style="font-size: large;">I have been, as usual, working on a lot of this and a bit of that and then a lot more of everything else! Even if the day had 36 hours instead of 24, I still probably wouldn't have enough time to get it all done. There are just too many things that excite me and when you have a curiosity like I do, you seem to want to learn and know all that the universe has to offer. Well my adventurist spirit wants to fly even further out this time. I have begun designing home decor products, that I think I showed you the last time we talked. I re-opened my etsy shop and there you will find some of these new home decor products!<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shannontcrandall">www.etsy.com/shop/shannontcrandall</a> </span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.etsy.com./shop/shannontcrandall"></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I moved into another shop last week called Arfully Yours, which is located in Hamilton, NY and I am going to my interview tomorrow at a third shop in Skaneateles, NY. Cross your fingers that I get into the Skaneateles co-op!
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now to raise the bar a bit higher....I am shooting for the stars. I applied on a whim to the Surtex Show in NYC and was accepted. Now if you are not familiar with the Surtex show, it is the grand mother of all of licensing shows. It has been going on in NYC for 27 years and this is the place to be showing your work if you want to get licensed. They have an attendance of about 7,000 buyers from manufacturing companies and licensing agencies. This is my goal to become a licensed artist...to have my work on home decor products...so you are thinking well this is great, you applied to the show and you got in, so what is the problem you say? Well, I really didn't think I would get in first of all , but then I did and that's when the trouble started. I saw the booth fee that I would have to pay to set up at the show. I knew at that moment that my hope had just crashed and burned. So, you say the booth fee couldn't have been that much....well it is $3,600 for the smallest booth they offer and obviously there are other costs involved in such an adventure. I knew at that moment that Surtex was out of the question. The excitement that had just started to bubble and rise made a rapid decent into disappointment and sadness. I shifted gears and resigned myself to the fact that I wasn't going to Surtex this year. After thinking and dreaming about it some more... I put out a message to friends, family and fellow artists on Face book and got a few interesting suggestions.......and out of those suggestions I came across "Go Fund Me".
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<span style="font-size: large;">As it turned out this is just one of the many crowd funding sites that you can set up yourself on your own page to help you fund your plan.... or in my case to fund my business growth. Now, I have started getting donations, but still really need your help. There are a couple of ways you can help me with my business growth.....obviously donating money is one, but even if you can only share my "Go Fund Me" page that would be awesome. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As you read the details on my "Go Fund Me"page, you will see that this plan of mine has been in the making for years. This is not a crazy whim, this is my life and my livelihood! I have building up to this level and need to move forward. I live to create and work hard at it everyday! Even if you can only spare $5, know that you will be helping me achieve my goals. The gratitude I have for all of you out there who have already helped me....or plan to help me is limitless.
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I want to share my work with the world and you can help me do it! Be a part of my journey. If you have a dream, never stop following it!</span>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-49385685945984005492013-04-21T08:01:00.001-07:002013-04-21T08:31:47.430-07:00Mohawk Valley Living InterviewI am excited to share my debut on Mohawk Valley Living with everyone! Please check it out and don't be too critical of my interview...I have to admit even though I am extroverted, I am seriously camera shy. If you are local and want to be interviewed by Sharry Whitney follow this link. www.mohawkvalleyliving.com
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-3289951961565634782013-04-16T06:14:00.003-07:002013-04-16T13:15:31.394-07:00The Short List<span style="font-size: large;">Today, I thought I would just share a hodgepodge of interesting things that have been going on in my busy life. I know your life is just as busy and I totally get that and appreciate that you all take the time to check in here and read my blog posts. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So lets just dive in shall we? The last couple of weeks have brought new opportunities for me and I have given myself permission to accept these opportunities and to say yes as much as possible!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the short list:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Collaborate with other artists </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Sell my artwork in another local store in addition to Artisans' Corner, located in Clinton, NY</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Re-open my Etsy shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Design New products with my artwork on them</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Apply to a few Art Shows</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Be interviewed by Mohawk Valley Living....this will air on April 21st on WFXV 33@ 7:30am &11pm and on WUTR abc @ 11:30am and of course it will be on you tube.<a href="http://www.mohawkvalleyliving.com/">www.mohawkvalleyliving.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">An upcoming interview with a fabulous fellow blogger Kelly Diemond ( you can read her blog by going to </span><a href="http://www.haveallthis.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.haveallthis.com</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Create and Teach Workshops.....just a note there are still a few openings in my workshops. Check out the schedule </span><a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.shannoncrandall.com</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Painting a Rocking Chair for Art Rocks. These chairs will be on display in Clinton, NY from the end of June until August when they will be auctioned off to the highest bidder.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Writing a blog</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some of my new products! </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shannontcrandall"><span style="font-size: large;">www.etsy.com/shop/shannontcrandall</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I mentioned this is just the short list....there are more things in the works. I guess my message today is that there are going to be times when you have a lot thrown at you and you have to be up for the challenge. Never feel as though you are not ready to take on these opportunities because truthfully who is! If you let opportunities pass you by until you are ready you may look back and say why didn't I do that when I had the chance. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I for one, know that I am more of a risk taker than some.....and there have been a few times that I have jumped a bit too quickly, but I have to tell you that it has been my experience that most of my mistakes have taught me a great lesson and have helped me to build a better business in the long run.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The other piece I want you to get is that some of these opportunities have come my way not because I sat back and waited patiently like a meek wallflower.....of course that is not my style if you know me at all.....I have put myself out there by asking questions....volunteering to help with projects....writing a blog.......emailing potential clients....and more! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have realized that I am my best representative and to get to where I want to be, I must step up and</span> <span style="font-size: large;">believe in myself and what I have to offer.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Now is the time for action! I sure as hell don't want to look back at my life and say "I should have or I could have....if I only would have".......</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">What are some of the opportunities that have come your way? Did you take action? Have you put yourself out there to create opportunities and if so what have you done? I want to know....drop me a line in the comments section. </span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-78360277264677964002013-04-07T06:30:00.000-07:002013-04-07T07:48:09.418-07:00Renovation <span style="font-size: large;">When was the last time you did a home renovation or any kind of renovation? Maybe you have never done a renovation at all. Well, we are in the process of a home renovation...our living room to be exact. We decided about 10 days ago that enough time had lapsed since renovating our dining room and that we just wanted to get the butt ugly wallpaper off of our living room walls. The room is pretty large and we had saved it for last, as the task at hand seemed pretty daunting. I will have to say that I do enjoy ripping off wallpaper, especially when it is as ugly as ours was. Of course we were not the ones who made that bad decision to put it up in the first place....I am sure a previous home owner probably just "fell in love" with it and had to have it on their walls! We are guessing that the wall paper dates back to the late 70's early 80's, so a change was most definitely in order. This old house of ours has probably survived many renovations as it was built in the 1890's. We are just updating it while keeping all of its charm and great bone structure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We personally, have lived with this wall paper for 6 years and we decided enough was enough....the tobacco stained, water marked paper that was partially falling off had to go! So with metal scrappers and our handy steamer we began the arduous removal. Just in case you really need to see what it looked like I snapped a few pictures.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4K9xJ8wc5s/UWCg97QHYCI/AAAAAAAAATE/-RFrPB-RdYE/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4K9xJ8wc5s/UWCg97QHYCI/AAAAAAAAATE/-RFrPB-RdYE/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ALWpE_iwWE/UWChkdrGRxI/AAAAAAAAATM/7kHv7m-EVms/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ALWpE_iwWE/UWChkdrGRxI/AAAAAAAAATM/7kHv7m-EVms/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a>Just for good measure I am showing some of the mess this removal made...and you have to believe me when I tell you that this isn't even a sixteenth of the miles of paper we removed. </div>
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The exposed plaster walls were in pretty rough shape in some spots. Next up.....patching, patching and more patching! I guess it's a good thing I married a man that can make the walls as smooth as butter, because so far every room in our house has needed his serious skills.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IkAkHJSxjh8/UWCkOvktC-I/AAAAAAAAATc/-CVbiNSZZrM/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IkAkHJSxjh8/UWCkOvktC-I/AAAAAAAAATc/-CVbiNSZZrM/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a>I really hate living through a renovation mess....it gets everywhere. Nothing escapes sheet rock dust! But folks you and I know this mess won't last forever and when the room is completed it will be fabulous. With that being said, I want to transition into a slightly different topic. This topic is about renovation, but not DIY home renovation...it is about DIY personal renovation. I think I have mentioned the changes that I personally have been going through with my creative business and I just wanted to express to you that although you may be afraid of the mess and what seems like unending chaos in your life....renovating yourself will give you a brand new outlook and help you in all areas of your life. </div>
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So, as I go through my home and personal renovation, I will keep you updated. Plus this is a great way for me to be accoutable for the actions that I am promising I will take during my renovation.</div>
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When was the last time you renovated something? And if you have to really think long and hard about it maybe it's about time!</div>
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Feel free to announce some of your renovations in the comments below.....I would love to hear about them whether they are home renovations or personal renovations:) </div>
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</span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-11575578950152016962013-04-01T06:55:00.004-07:002013-04-01T08:08:37.797-07:00Raffling A Painting <br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am an animal lover are you? And just to prove it I have 2 cats and a scruffy little dog named Maddie. We used to have some fish, but that is another story for another day. Maddie is really the first dog I have ever had and she has become a cherished family member. She really enjoys watching me create in my studio and usually lays down next to me wherever I am working. She is a wonderful companion. Now you are probably saying what does talking about your pets have to do with the title of this post "Raffling A Painting"? Well I am getting to that! Just in case you wanted to know what Maddie looks like here she is. She the cutest schnoodle ever!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As a an animal lover I like to try and donate money or time to local animal rescue centers and this year I have decided to raffle off one of my original paintings to help raise money for a dog rescue center in my area called Helping Hounds Dog Rescue. A portion of the ticket sales will go directly to Helping Hounds Dog Rescue located in Dewitt, NY.<a href="http://www.rescuehounds.com/">www.rescuehounds.com</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So lets get right to it. The painting I am raffling is "Follow Your Heart" and it measures 16"x20". The materials I used on this painting are acrylic paint and paper collage. This is on canvas and is wired and ready to hang. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0TGARHc2kfw/UVmM4oSUl_I/AAAAAAAAASs/6mWVxwXxHQo/s1600/Follow+your+heart+16x20+mixed+media.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0TGARHc2kfw/UVmM4oSUl_I/AAAAAAAAASs/6mWVxwXxHQo/s640/Follow+your+heart+16x20+mixed+media.jpg" width="508" /></a>It is only $14 per ticket or 2 for $20. You can purchase the tickets starting today April 1, 2013- May 15, 2013. I will draw the winning ticket on May 16th, 2013. If you need the painting shipped an additional $10 will be charged at the time of shipping. To purchase tickets go to:</div>
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I am crossing my fingers for you....I hope you are the winner! Sadly, I can only pick one ticket, but the more tickets you purchase the better your chances! </div>
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</span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-44545600313835777482013-03-28T05:37:00.000-07:002013-03-28T05:37:18.117-07:00Fiber group<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">While taking a local needle felting workshop, I learned that there is a group of fiber artists that meet on Monday evenings in our local community center. See another great thing right under my nose! They asked me if I wanted to come, so I thought about it and decided if there was time on Monday evening after a long day of work, I would dig out my rug hooking stuff and go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As it turned out, I made the decision that I didn't want to miss joining this group, so I hurriedly dug through my bins of crafting stuff in the basement and found all of the necessary supplies along with my poor rug that has been sitting for probably the last 3 years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I arrived and after a brief introduction, I looked around to see that most of the group members were crocheting or knitting.....I do know how to do both, but frankly I am not that good at either. These ladies just sit and work and chat. It was so relaxing! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I made myself comfortable....got all my wool strips out and ready and then realized that it had been so long since I hooked that I didn't remember how! I stayed calm and looked it up on my smart phone....so glad to have that along with me! It came back to me just like riding a bicycle. I got into the groove and made a bit of progress on my poor rug. As the conversation flowed the time went by so quickly and I realized that this was great.....I felt like I connected with other like minded people and I felt so comfortable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The lesson here get out from under that rock. There are great things happening around you and you may not even know it....so don't be shy, start poking around to see what is in your community! Or if you are local and are reading this post, grab your yarn or wool or whatever fiber work that you do and join us! We have a seat waiting for you....and bring a friend, the more the merrier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fiber group meets at the Sherrill, NY CAC from 5:30pm-8pm on Monday nights. You can bet I will be there!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is my rug that I designed myself....So to all of you rug hookers out there, I know it is not perfect and my rows are not perfect, but it is not about being perfect, it is about de-stressing and connecting with others and just plain fun!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-40257167961147849642013-03-23T13:13:00.000-07:002013-03-23T13:13:16.106-07:00Collaborating<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes you just can't do it alone....I mean doing things on your own can be rewarding and fun, but sometimes your work can be complimented by another artist's</span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: large;"> and the fit is just so perfect it is like a marriage made in heaven.</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I have been feeling out some collaborations and I have to say that I think I found the perfect fit! </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Its funny because this artist that I am collaborating with is in my neighborhood....he was basically right under my nose I and I didn't even know it. We just happened to be passing by while out on a walk. We stopped and chatted a bit and realized that we were both doing workshops.....the conversation just progressed from there.</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">So take a look around you people...you may be surprised at who you could collaborate with.</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">The artist that I am collaborating with is Antony Galbraith. He creates amazing needle felted animals, beads, flowers and so much more. We will be teaching a two day workshop on June 14th and 15th. During the first day of the workshop you will learn how to make needle felted beads and on the second day we will teach you how to make a bracelet or necklace with your beads. I will be showing some seed bead beading techniques as well.....just another way to embellish your one-of -a kind piece of wearable art. Antony's needle felted creations are wonderful and I can tell you first hand it is like painting with wool and sculpting at the same time. To check out his work and to sign up for this workshop go here </span></strong><a href="http://www.doanart.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">www.doanart.com</span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size: large;">. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">You can also sign up through my website as well.</span></strong><a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com./"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">www.shannoncrandall.com.</span></strong></a><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">To better acquaint myself with Antony's process, I took his workshop today and learned how to make a needle felted flower. </span></strong></div>
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<span style="clear: right; float: right; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_eR7LV5JXZI/UU4DFCJb-3I/AAAAAAAAASI/XRh6m8vZyP8/s640/IMAG0580.jpg" width="382" /></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_eR7LV5JXZI/UU4DFCJb-3I/AAAAAAAAASI/XRh6m8vZyP8/s1600/IMAG0580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>What do you<span style="color: black;"> <span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">th</span></span>ink? I myself think this turned</strong> <strong>out pretty sweet! </strong></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I am thinking that this is just the beginning for many more collaborations to come!</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">If you are interested in collaborating with me don't be shy reach and contact me.....get the dialogue started.</span></strong></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-82614687201125504472013-03-15T13:36:00.000-07:002013-03-15T13:36:23.241-07:00Head First<span style="font-size: large;">What do you do when you have stalled and can't seem to move forward? You are spinning in circles and seem to go no where. People ask me that question, so I have been thinking about how I go about breaking down that barrier. I usually </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">go create something that I have never created before. Lucky for me it just so happens that a very good client of mine asked me, just the other day, to make her some wine charms for wine glasses. I had never made any wine charms before, but thought I can do it...I am a jewelry designer, why not and I said to the client "sure no problem, when do you need them?" </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes this gets me in trouble when I do this, but my philosophy of jump in head first and it will all work out has been validated many times with most of my projects turning out great! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think sometimes to move forward you just have to jump in head first....stop over thinking and just do it! Here is a quote from my creative business coach "fake it until you make it".....in other words pretend you are confident. I have found that by doing these types of projects....saying yes without any experience, has been a huge confidence builder for me. Of course I wasn't going to leave this post with out showing you proof positive that I did indeed make the wine charms.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8j8K74wRprI/UUOAHxqWf4I/AAAAAAAAARs/G-iV30LgwvU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8j8K74wRprI/UUOAHxqWf4I/AAAAAAAAARs/G-iV30LgwvU/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-McowF8y9UHc/UUOAV_99S4I/AAAAAAAAAR0/ZopH5p7Ko4M/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-McowF8y9UHc/UUOAV_99S4I/AAAAAAAAAR0/ZopH5p7Ko4M/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> Here are a couple of pictures. I think they turned out pretty charminggggg.......if I do say so myself! I made them with sterling silver wire, lamp work beads, Czech crystals and seed beads. I put on some classic rock....thought up a quick design in my head and just started grabbing materials. Quite intuitive I must say and playful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now its your turn.... I challenge you to do a head first project. No excuses! Even if you don't have someone asking you to make something for them.... you can practice by pulling out your art supplies and creating something that you have never created before. Everyone has transferable skills...put them to use. This type of exercise will help you build your wall of confidence one brick at a time!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-67674632184320943492013-03-10T09:01:00.000-07:002013-03-10T09:01:24.035-07:00<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Its has been a bit since I last wrote a post....I have been going through some more changes since we last talked. It seems to me that this early spring has started new growth not just outside, but inside me. I have been propelled forward by new determination, self reflection and the drive to make it all happen! I know these are bold terms to describe my own transformation, but I feel that I need to publicly pat myself on the back! In fact we all just need to stop sometimes and take a few moments to recognize the achievements we have accomplished. I know it is hard to do because changing the self talk in your head takes a lot of courage. You may want to take it slow.....catch yourself in the act and breakdown your thoughts. Once you have figured out what triggers that doubt to creep in, you can devise a plan of attack. </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Here is my way of going about it: I have begun re-writing the script inside my head.... the one that subconsciously runs all the time. First off, I pay attention to my own thinking and how the patterns work in my head. I can tell you, that my self doubt usually creeps in when I am getting ready to start a new action towards growing my business. As I learned from the Right Brainers In Business Video Summit last week, we all have trauma drama. This is, in simple terms, is when we connect feelings from a bad past experience to a new action or decision we are trying to make. This can invite doubt to enter and crush our ability to move forward. So now, that I have learned to break down my thoughts line by line, whenever I feel that little bit of self doubt creeping in, I focus really hard on a mental positive checklist of all the actions I have completed. Then guess what I do? I repeat to myself you have done a great job....just look at how much you have accomplished today... or this week... or this month. I keep telling my self this until my unwelcome guest of doubt leaves the room. If I have my journal handy, I will write a couple powerful affirmations to myself and periodically look at them throughout the day. This always brings a smile to my face and changes how my day progresses!</span></strong><br />
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Here is an example: My first line is reminding me that I have something worth sharing....my second line gives me permission to do what I love.....and the third sentence reaffirms that I can and already have made progress! <strong><u>POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT PEOPLE</u></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">The next bit I am going to tell you is this is not another test, so be gentle with yourself. It probably took years to build up that script you have been running in your head, so it will take time to rewire and reboot your thought processes. One day at a time is my motto......and some days I am better at challenging doubt than others! The point is keep moving one step forward even if you don't have all the answers. </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">We all have important things we are put on this planet to share....gifts that are our own that enrich the lives of others when shared. Bottom line....we all matter!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> I want to shout a huge thank you to Jennifer Lee creator of Right Brainers In Business and Monica Lee creator of Smart Creative Women. You have both inspired me and challenged me to grow personally and professionally by sharing your talents with the world. Check out their fabulous websites....you'll be hooked.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.rightbrainersinbusiness.com/">www.rightbrainersinbusiness.com</a> </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://smartcreativewomen.com/">http://smartcreativewomen.com</a></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-30316344247185970102013-03-03T07:38:00.002-08:002013-03-03T09:05:38.043-08:00Right Brainers in Business<span style="font-size: large;">Good morning everyone...Here is the buzz.....I am excited to share some information today about a website that I found to be an invaluable source of support and information. I am not going to beat around the bush I am going to get right to it. The site is the Right Brainers in Business and they have a video summit going on that started February 25th and continues through March 8th. Jennifer Lee is the developer of this website and she has a book out as well. Her mission is to help all of us creatives out here to be successful in developing and building our own special businesses.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But before I give you the link....I just want to explain what the summit is all about. Jennifer has been interviewing fellow creatives like ourselves and business support entrepeneurs....these interviews are very insightful and have given me and many others tools that we need to use in our business development. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So here is the link: </span><a href="http://rightbrainersinbusiness.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://rightbrainersinbusiness.com</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you use this information and join the summit. It has helped me a great deal. The next livestream video will be on monday March 5, 2013 and if you have missed the first few videos there is a 48 hour replay where you can go back and watch them. The best part of all of this is that it is free! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have actually applied for her scholarship to win a premium pass to her site which gives you even more support and as part of that application I mentioned that I would share with you all here some of my struggles that I have had to move my creative business forward. So here goes....I have had to become more computer savvy and as I have mentioned before, that has been a hard road for me. The balance between having time to learn all that I need to get myself noticed online has been taking away from my creative time...so balance has certainly been a huge issue for me lately. Plus I am very impatient....I want to learn these things and have my site up and running exactly as I have envisioned ASAP, but I have learned that is not how it goes....baby steps towards my goals will get me there and probably keep me more sane in the mean time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you can take from my experiences and use them to push and stretch yourself as well....that is the defintion of growth and you can't get there without these trials.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-54887506705812078332013-02-27T15:21:00.000-08:002013-02-27T15:32:25.779-08:00Workshops<span style="font-size: large;">I have been on a creative roll lately....feeling like I am motivated by this awful weather....it has been pushing me to go and spend time in my studio. I create to escape the dreariness of the outdoors. Creating is my therapy and I think everyone could stand to benefit from some type of creative activity. It will get your juices flowing in a new direction...one that maybe you haven't visited in quite awhile. I started offering workshops at the beginning of this year and have found that the connection between student and teacher was what I was missing. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am about to host my second jewelry making workshop this Sunday and can't wait for the fun to begin.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1DYCsBPs78/US6AvIeOs4I/AAAAAAAAAP8/XSuYDSE4SgA/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1DYCsBPs78/US6AvIeOs4I/AAAAAAAAAP8/XSuYDSE4SgA/s320/011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I will be teaching my students how to make various paper beads, seed bead beads( that's a mouthful), wire wrapping and hammering and how to attach all of these elements into their very own pair of earrings.....wearable art I say! It is mixed media all the way and this girl loves to mix it up for sure!</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TJnejAqZFlM/US6L7SRcmqI/AAAAAAAAAQI/VLtCsQFaYSw/s1600/IMAG0543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TJnejAqZFlM/US6L7SRcmqI/AAAAAAAAAQI/VLtCsQFaYSw/s320/IMAG0543.jpg" width="191" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T6WYArroX_o/US6Q47Y_TBI/AAAAAAAAAQg/j2WRV3oY9nc/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T6WYArroX_o/US6Q47Y_TBI/AAAAAAAAAQg/j2WRV3oY9nc/s320/002.JPG" width="318" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v4EWZoSC83Y/US6OXRyyrCI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/sbNsbl2rtNE/s1600/IMAG0519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v4EWZoSC83Y/US6OXRyyrCI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/sbNsbl2rtNE/s320/IMAG0519.jpg" width="191" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Workshops are a great way to meet and connect with new and old friends, learn something new and express yourself in a way that helps your mind body and spirit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is my workshop schedule:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Location: Oneida, NY</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mixed Media Jewelry Workshop March 3, 2013 1-4pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Seed Bead Techniques March 9, 2013 1-4pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Precious Metal Clay April 21, 2013 4-7pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Session 1: Mixed media painting & collage June 8, 2013 10-6pm</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tWk555e52n0/US6Sdq6Yj7I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/KmwGBYu1fXE/s1600/A+Gathering+36x36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tWk555e52n0/US6Sdq6Yj7I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/KmwGBYu1fXE/s320/A+Gathering+36x36.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-REkxDOQfdC8/US6RlFIEINI/AAAAAAAAAQw/ypdZLA7Kvcw/s1600/Tell+me+a+Story.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-REkxDOQfdC8/US6RlFIEINI/AAAAAAAAAQw/ypdZLA7Kvcw/s320/Tell+me+a+Story.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Location: Artisans' Corner Clinton, NY</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Herringbone Seed Bead Bracelet Workshop</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> May 5, 2013 4:30-6:30pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Russian Spiral Seed Bead Workshop May 19, 2013 4:30-6:30pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Paper Bead Earring Workshop June 2, 2013 4:30-6:30pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mixed Metal Earring Workshop June 14, 2013 6:30-8:30pm</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JKcPxYNl9pc/US6RTuhKfnI/AAAAAAAAAQo/qiXnv-ioH30/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JKcPxYNl9pc/US6RTuhKfnI/AAAAAAAAAQo/qiXnv-ioH30/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a3C-Qg98ehg/US6QtaVH2DI/AAAAAAAAAQY/pD4-O-4UCq4/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a3C-Qg98ehg/US6QtaVH2DI/AAAAAAAAAQY/pD4-O-4UCq4/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To register click here. </span><a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.shannoncrandall.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope to meet you at one of my workshops. All of my workshops are geared towards any level. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you have questions you can email me at: <a href="mailto:shannon.crandall@yahoo.com">shannon.crandall@yahoo.com</a></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-44264815488476075192013-02-22T16:16:00.003-08:002013-02-22T16:18:23.183-08:00Technology the Artist's must have tool<span style="font-size: large;">In our studios, we artists have many tools and implements that we use to create, but once we have created our pieces what tools do we have to share them with others? Back in the day, we would hope to find a gallery or galleries that we could send a proposal to for a show...or network while doing a street fair....or just plain wait to be discovered by someone that could get our work to where it could be seen. Well, that kind of puts the power in someone elses hands if you ask me and if you remember anything else I have told you about myself, please remember I don't follow rules real well. So as my body of art work and jewelry grew, I needed an outlet besides the few shows that I participated in yearly, to get me connected to art seekers and other artists.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now I hope you all have figured out what I am about to delve into here: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have had a web presence now on and off for a couple of years, but really never pushed the envelope with it, because I felt I lacked the skills needed.....I dabbled with Etsy and had a shop for a year and a half...I joined Fine Art America, which I still belong to and even designed a website on Go Daddy, but I always felt like none of these sites were really getting me anywhere online. So I decided after meeting some really great artists online...... whose websites and blogs were wonderful and offered everything that I wanted to offer... that this was it...the year that I, the non-techie was going to learn some new skills. I was going to add to my tool bag, online networking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So lets get to the right here and now.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have worked very hard these past few weeks..... becoming computer savvy...I have added more pages to my website....added paypal buttons to be able to sell my art work and workshops, and I added a blog. I am tired from just typing all of that. The learning curve has been a bit steep at times, but I have learned that if I persevere, I will pull through the rough moments and be rewarded with the ability to connect with the world! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now to all of you artists out there, who are still trying to market yourselves in an old school manner, If I am talking to you.....you need to learn some new tricks. I know this is a hard pill to swallow because not everyone is a techie....and that includes me. There are so many choices online now that make things really pretty simple. Many companies that host websites offer templates or themes that you can use as a ready made fit and they give you options as well to customize your site. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvtROiA_16E/USf_GKZKeGI/AAAAAAAAAPs/ra_UK8lzUes/s1600/IMAG0514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvtROiA_16E/USf_GKZKeGI/AAAAAAAAAPs/ra_UK8lzUes/s320/IMAG0514.jpg" width="191" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">For example, I use go daddy for my website and blogger for my blog and I have linked them together. See, I am now spitting out the information I have just learned these past few weeks....no pressure though. This can be challenging, but if I can accomplish this so can you. Check out some youtube videos on how to build a website or a blog....this is free people and you can't beat free!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am no expert on how to develop and create a website, but I know that without this portal to the world my art work and jewelry would have a much smaller audience. My website and blog are always evolving..... Keep moving forward....even if you make baby steps. Bravery comes in all forms. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now go out there into cyberspace and have a look around....you might be pleasantly surprised at what you can do with the right tools.</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-26156433399225640262013-02-17T14:12:00.000-08:002013-02-17T14:12:36.319-08:00Top Secret Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Top Secret Project"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">If I could find the right words to express how excited I am about this new "Top Secret Project" I have been working on, I could probably write a 300 page essay. Keeping secrets has really never been a strong character trait for me, especially when the secret is as exciting as this one. It has been so difficult not to spill the beans or open the flood gates, that I am just about ready to burst. This is so secret that even my own mother doesn't know about it....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We have to back the story up a bit, so you can understand how this "Top Secret Project" began to root itself into my life. Since taking an e-course back in September of 2012, I have fallen in love with the idea of teaching workshops again. I recently taught a workshop at a fellow artist's home....check out a few of the pictures:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Kelly Diemond is her name and she was so gracious to open up her beautiful home for my first workshop that I taught in 2013. We had a blast and I was most definitely bitten by the teaching bug that night. I have been crazed ever since, setting up more workshops....which you can see the schedule for on my website: </span><a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.shannoncrandall.com</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I had now moved into an entirely new brave zone...the first part was setting up this blog and expanding my website....but then the ultimate test of bravery announced itself the other day, when I was asked if I offered any e-courses.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There, I dropped the bomb....the secret is out. I feel a big sigh coming on.....awwwwwww. So I took a deep breath and began videoing myself.......then waiting with anxiety for hours on end to get my videos uploaded to youtube, only to realize that I could just download free editing software. I am happy to tell you that after all of that and with a couple of hours of editing time, I completely uploaded and edited my 5 part series......drum roll please.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that this is my first attempt and I am not sure the world is ready yet to see this series. My bravery must grow some more before I can set wings to this project and let it fly....you all will be the first to know when I am ready to market my very first e-course!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for encouraging my bravery!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-16364042503140999372013-02-16T08:14:00.000-08:002013-02-16T08:30:40.591-08:00<span style="font-size: large;">Just a brief note to let you all know, that as a new blogger I will generally be writing posts when the mood strikes me. No promises of how many I will write a week , a month, or a year....come on people I already told you that I don't like to follow rules and that even goes for my own rules as well! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A tid bit for you to chew on.... if you really want some more information about me and what I do while you are waiting for more posts.....you can see what I am up to, by going to my facebook design page.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the link:</span><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.facebook.com/pages/shannon-crandall-designs</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNuCiRBrNqo/UR-tEnhW4HI/AAAAAAAAAOY/8LBtadfL2nU/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNuCiRBrNqo/UR-tEnhW4HI/AAAAAAAAAOY/8LBtadfL2nU/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh and here is a little teaser.......by the way I design and make jewelry as well...More designs to be seen on my website. Just click the link Shannon Crandalls Art Work on the top right of this page. Got to go for now....trying to get in some sweet bliss creative therapy time in my studio today:)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you like what you see PLEASE BECOME A FRIEND AND SIGN UP AS A FOLLOWER....and never be shy about leaving a comment or question!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17383122032856161525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893755241534595359.post-66612569471276005932013-02-15T09:35:00.001-08:002013-02-15T13:00:35.154-08:00Creative Process Born<span style="font-size: large;">It seems to me, that for many artists it is the process of creating that makes them continue to create. I for one know that I relish the idea of spending long hours in my studio with my only guests being my dog Maddie and her two sidekicks Sophie and Tasha...(the cats.) When I open the door to my studio and cross the threshhold, it is like I have stepped into my imagination and my intuition starts to rev into full gear. This is the very beginning of my process to create.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Ok, so the lights are on in my studio....my imagination is flowing with all of the infinite possibilites...I turn on some classic rock and hang a big blank canvas on the wall. I find myself furiously pulling out the paints and lining them up along the top of my cardboard pallet. Sometimes, I am so in the flow, that I even forget to put on my smock...silly me because you know I am going to get very messy....</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--s2zIwX-f1w/UR5j_YrslgI/AAAAAAAAAMg/TOdK2yo7BdU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--s2zIwX-f1w/UR5j_YrslgI/AAAAAAAAAMg/TOdK2yo7BdU/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jMIdvxhoUgc/UR5lNDZ-AHI/AAAAAAAAAMo/iNelMm720aI/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jMIdvxhoUgc/UR5lNDZ-AHI/AAAAAAAAAMo/iNelMm720aI/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The splattering and dripping of paint......fingerpainting, making marks with recycled objects commences with no rhyme or reason. With some impatience, I wait between layers for them to dry.....just between you and me though I am an instant gratification, slightly type "A" personality, so I sometimes whip out my handy hairdryer to dry the layers....(I think some of you out there know what I am talking about:)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first goal is to completely cover the canvas with paint.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLV0vBOPXNo/UR5mUqJbpbI/AAAAAAAAAMw/iY8WK81Qbmg/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLV0vBOPXNo/UR5mUqJbpbI/AAAAAAAAAMw/iY8WK81Qbmg/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">During this phase I am usually jumping around and singing to the music....looking like a complete and utter nutcase, but having so much fun with the process.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next, I add some fun black and white marks with different paintbrushes and my fingers....</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nqhsw87Lw9U/UR5oPYG4WmI/AAAAAAAAAM4/0RzxEB-D5wE/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nqhsw87Lw9U/UR5oPYG4WmI/AAAAAAAAAM4/0RzxEB-D5wE/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Again, I am not trying to achieve anything in this stage....just making layers and going with my intuitive flow.....there are no rules and this is the key for me....I guess I have another deep dark confession people, I have never been good at following the rules...oops did I just let that out of the bag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Excited is how I describe my next phase....I pull out my fluid acrylics and my water spray bottle....if you have never used fluid acrylics, let me tell you this is an experience all in itself! If you have control issues, you may not enjoy this step because you apply the fluid acrylics and spray them with water to let them drip....and drip....and drip. These drips go where they want and you have now given up the control to the creative gods. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dthV1verj1c/UR5qrQhpfuI/AAAAAAAAANI/je1biuV3wqE/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dthV1verj1c/UR5qrQhpfuI/AAAAAAAAANI/je1biuV3wqE/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I then slowly start painting on designs with an outlining of black or white....sometimes I get lucky and see images right away when doing this....for example the purple flower on the bottom center of the picture above. This is a time to turn my canvas in different directions to see images and outline designs.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2zvCHQ1wZVY/UR5rjM3wBII/AAAAAAAAANQ/V20J74aHAKM/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="309" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2zvCHQ1wZVY/UR5rjM3wBII/AAAAAAAAANQ/V20J74aHAKM/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eORSvBViG-o/UR5rzgGYP-I/AAAAAAAAANY/MoRe5i7GZCc/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eORSvBViG-o/UR5rzgGYP-I/AAAAAAAAANY/MoRe5i7GZCc/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fingerpainting again to fill in the color around the images is the next game I play.....playing is so important in my process...it is when my kindergarten alter ego emerges. I know as adults we sometimes have buried that part so deep, that is takes a bit to coax it out when we need it, but as the saying goes "practice makes perfect".</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After filling in color and making the hard decision as to what my color pallet wants to be.....and believe me, I am usually pacing back and forth in front of my painting at this point in my process, looking to see the separate parts and how they act as a whole. I want to create the painting's authentic color story. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H5YqaXm8jzs/UR5t_OF_dMI/AAAAAAAAANk/YlkSuucN6NA/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H5YqaXm8jzs/UR5t_OF_dMI/AAAAAAAAANk/YlkSuucN6NA/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aBGIe55WpIA/UR5uXdgcFnI/AAAAAAAAANs/nX_KK191uNE/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aBGIe55WpIA/UR5uXdgcFnI/AAAAAAAAANs/nX_KK191uNE/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">And even after pacing, sometimes the full pallet doesn't develop until the very end. Now, above are two pictures of my collage elements that I add after painting. I am a true believer in recycling...upcycling...re-using, re-purposing or whatever is the politically correct way of stating this.... I can not in good conscience waste paint that is on my pallet. So being the clever girl that I am, I decided one day.... too many years ago.... that I was going to use that paint somehow.....so I looked around my studio and spied some scrapbooking paper and my pallet knife. The lightbulb went on...I layed the paper down and scrapped some paint from my pallet onto it with my pallet knife....then another idea popped into my head..."collage this onto your paintings"....and that is how the collaging all began.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To sum this all up.....almost all of the best things happen when you follow your intuition....and leave the rules to somebody else!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gI4p6rLZy9w/UR5xJBuqTiI/AAAAAAAAAN4/GdM1ZI6wxO0/s1600/A+Gathering+36x36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gI4p6rLZy9w/UR5xJBuqTiI/AAAAAAAAAN4/GdM1ZI6wxO0/s320/A+Gathering+36x36.jpg" width="319" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A Gathering by Shannon Crandall 36"x36"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">for sale on my website: </span><a href="http://www.shannoncrandall.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.shannoncrandall.com</span></a></div>
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