Inside My Studio - Teacups, Aprons, and Hoosiers

Palette table, oil paints, and reference pictures of teacups for an upcoming commission in my studio.

I've been hearing it from Corrie for awhile, "where's news about your own work?" Hmmm, I am working on my own work, but between my husband's new job and traveling responsibilities, caring for my son who is now verging on the fabulous age of two (enough said), and taking care of me (which I'm learning takes precedence over everything), I haven't had much of an opportunity to share what's going on in my own studio! So I'm going to write a few posts in the next week about commissions and pieces that I'm working on.

Towards the end of the summer, I booked three Christmas commissions and am continuing work on one that has been slowly progressing since the beginning of the year. No worries, the client keeps telling me "piano, piano". (She's Italian.) All of them deal with memories, involve food, or food preparation. However, the two I'm featuring today focus solely in the home domain and are related more to food prep and containing food, whereas the other two are about food.

The first commission is a gift from one of my adult students and her two sisters to their mom for Christmas. Her mom has a collection of prized teacups, and was, and still is an apron-wearer. My student actually stole her threadbare, everyday apron, and the lavender gingham and organza seen below, and shot several photos from a variety of angles of three selected teacups.  

We decided on a series of three panels, 10" x 10" each, on which to create an homage to the three teacups, somehow incorporating her aprons. I'm so glad with the selection of teacups that June made, and I found that the lavender and gingham worked so well to tie all three together. After several different sketches, I came up with the one below arranging the teacups in a more dynamic, asymmetrical composition, playing with different points of view, all featured on the organza apron. I still have some things to work out, which I will do once I start painting, but she was thrilled with the overall gist. I'll be starting this painting in November, as I'm still working on preliminary sketches of other commissions.

My client's mothers' apron (lavender gingham trim with organza body). Mom doesn't know I have it!

Teacup

Teacup

Teacup

 

Selected composition for three-paneled painting featuring my client's mother's teacups and apron.

The second commission was begun back in February, but actually was implanted in my studio two and a half years ago when my client brought me her grandmother's sugar bowl in a Styrofoam box and pink gift bag to my grand opening celebration at my old location. She told me her idea then, "Sweet Memories" featuring the sugar bowl. Then stuff happened in her life, and mine, and she's just simply fantastic. I actually hadn't communicated much with her during 2009, and then I moved to 214 Spring and we got in touch again. 

After sitting down over a glass of wine, we came up with the start of a painting that is still evolving and now much closer to inception. Initially, the painting was to simply be the sugar bowl, but after seeing some of my larger works composing many aspects together, my client wanted to include the red Cosco stool I own, and her grandmother's apron. Well, the first round of sketches weren't happening, I was too tied to some of my previous paintings. Then, when we discussed some of the problems, my client suggested adding in her grandmother's Hoosier cabinet. I thought, well, that's just going to add in more complications. Well, it actually enabled me to shift my thinking and come up with a more interesting composition. 

The first sketch shows the Hoosier on the left, with the percolator on the shelf, the sugar bowl on the stool, and a tile floor extending out into a fantasy space with a manikin wearing her grandmother's apron. This goes back to a painting I did in college of my parents where space between the interior and exterior blends together. 

After meeting and reviewing this idea a couple of weeks ago, my client decided, and I think rightfully so, given the proportions of the canvas, that the apron is too much. Now we're moving towards no apron, a window in the background to open up the composition, flooding in light (much like her memories of her grandmother's kitchen), and moving the sugar bowl to a shelf over the window. I still need to work a bit more on the latest sketch before I present it to her, but this is where I'm at now. 
 

My client's stove top percolator and her Grandmother's sugar bowl on a shelf in my studio.

My client's grandmother's Hoosier cabinet.

2nd round of sketches incorporating the Hoosier, percolator, sugar bowl, and apron.

3rd round of sketches adding a window element and moving the sugar bowl to a shelf.

Catch me later this week in my studio with progress on my other two commissions - a visual homage to an eating tour in Italy and a tile design for installation in a client's kitchen / bar area.

Remembering a Friend and Artist

Artist, Tony Lordi

I came to the studio Friday to hear the sad news of the passing of Tony Lordi. As I wrote this I was still in a state of shock and sadness. It is my hope through writing this to honor and remember a person who has meant a great deal to me both personally and artistically.

In 2005 I moved with my husband to Sussex County, a place where we knew no one, had no roots. I had just started my business as an artist and immediately got myself involved in the county's fledgling art scene. After becoming a member and getting involved in the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council, the director of the council then, Linda Hirsch, introduced me to Tony Lordi. He was this artist and gallery owner in Lafayette. She thought he might be able to use my help to gallery sit.

We met, he signed me up to sit, and I was indoctrinated into the world of Tony Lordi. I was excited at the prospect, even more so after learning that one of his well-known "Empires" was featured in my college art history text, "Varieties of Visual Experience". But, I was intimidated, too. Tony was smart, had what seemed more energy at his age than I've ever seemed to possess. He lived, breathed, and loved art and music. But he loved life, too.
 
I sat at Art at the Mill, learned about running a gallery, and got to know Tony. He was hands-on, always stopping in to say hello, chat, and was always inquiring about my artwork. I eventually showed him some of my stuff, and he loved it. Within no time I was exhibiting my artwork at the gallery. I attribute Tony with being the one who really jump-started my exhibition career. He encouraged me, supported me, and made me want to make work. Tony in the past even offered to drive my entries into NYC for an annual show at NYU that he encouraged me to participate in (I got acceptances 2 of the 3 years I entered).

Chrome Boy with Big Ears, this was part of the promo materials from Kitchen Kitsch, a joint show between Tony and Me in 2008 at TraillWorks. When I saw the Chrome Boy, I thought there was a fun likeness to Tony an used it as a portrait of him to represent his work for the show. Tony thought it was great, and encouraged me to use it.

When I eventually made the decision to rent my own studio, he was gung-ho for it. I enjoyed his almost-weekly visits, chats, and criticism at my new place. I began inviting a few artists to exhibit with me on occasion and I had the honor of showing his work beside mine in 2008 for a Tour of Art in Newton. His agreement to do the show with me was flattering and cemented for me that he viewed me as an equal. We titled the show Kitchen Kitsch; featuring my Appliance Portraits and his Vintage Chrome Appliance sculptures. Our work together drew so much attention to the gallery!

Installation of Vintage Chrome Appliances at TraillWorks in 2008, all sculptures © Tony Lordi

Steam Heat, vintage irons and ironing board, © Tony Lordi

My last, fondest memory of Tony is when I relocated my studio earlier this year. I was still getting my new place ready and he stopped by for a visit, while driving his red Empire around town to take pictures for a book project he was working on. I jumped on the opportunity, learning from Tony, and invited him to bring it in and take pictures of it at TraillWorks. We had an impromptu studio shoot, Ringo on hand and in photos. He was so full of life, excitement. I don't recall what we talked about but I will cherish that day as it was one of the last great memories of Tony; breezing in and out with his art.

Red Empire, ©2010 Tony Lordi

I think what I loved best about Tony was his joie de vivre, and his ability to embrace you, teach you, and all the while never look down on you. In the five years that I knew Tony Lordi, I have probably grown ten years, in large part to his influence. Tony, you will be deeply missed, but I know that you will not leave the hearts and fortunately, the eyes, of many.

Announcing Two Fall Art Workshops

Happy Autumn! I'm thrilled the leaves are starting to change in Northern NJ, although it's hot during the day, the mornings and evenings are cooling, bringing the possibility of change, and making my runs with Ringo more enjoyable. TraillWorks is evolving with the seasons and is pleased to announce two fall workshops with two very talented artists. 

Fabric Tassel Postcard, 6" x 4", by Martha C. Hall

First, No Sew Fiber Art, set for Sunday, October 24th from 10 -3pm will be taught by Martha C. Hall, an award-winning textile artist who is venturing into the teaching realm. She is a creative and consummate professional in everything she does and I anticipate this workshop being very well-received. I've known Martha for about three years; she impresses me in the way she presents her work and herself. She's a patient person, who is also very thoughtful about everything, the makings of an excellent teacher. I can't wait myself as I think Martha will open up new possibilities for my own work.

Workshop participants will make one to two pieces of small fiber art, one of which will be a postcard suitable for mailing. We will experiment with surface design techniques including fused fabric and papers, stamping, writing with fabric ink pens, freezer paper resists and stencils. Design concepts and tips for working on a small "canvas" will also be addressed.

No Sew Fiber Art with Martha C. Hall

Japanese Stab Binding Book, Mixed Media, by Renie Garlick

The second workshop, Japanese Stab Binding, set for Sunday, November 14th from 10 - 3pm will be taught by artist, Renie Garlick. Japanese stab binding is a decorative method of joining the pages of a book to it's cover. It's one of the simpler, yet very beautiful methods of book binding. Like Martha, Renie has similar qualities of a good artist / teacher. She knows her craft, is always well-prepared, and is able to offer alternative approaches or directions for her students. She's also very interested in building a sense of community through collaboration.

Homage to Julia Limited Edition Book, constructed by Renie Garlick / designed by Jennie Traill Schaeffer, $40 each

Renie and I have collaborated recently on a book together. She constructed the above book that I helped design using limited edition giclées of one of my paintings, Homage to Julia, as the cover image (still copies available.) One of the books made during the workshop will be a Japanese tortoise shell binding composed from pages designed by workshop participants. The other book created with blank pages with use a 3-hole punch style binding (shown above). The tortoise binding is ideal for work with single sheets of paper; makes lovely photo albums, journals and storybooks. Making your own book makes a touching gift. I made a scrapbook for my sister upon her high school graduation, and made a guest book for my best friend's wedding.

Japanese Stab Binding with Renie Garlick

Both of these workshops are suitable for beginners through more advanced students, mature teens through adults. There are only twelve spots available in each workshop and pricing is discounted for early registrants. All participants will be treated to a complimentary three-course lunch from Krave Cafe and Caterers in Newton. You can register above through Eventbrite or by contacting me at TraillWorks via email: jennie@traillworks.com or phone, 973-383-1307. I hope you'll join us for at least one creative day! jennie@traillworks.com

Opening and Benefit a HUGE Success!

From left, Brenda Decker (featured artist), Jane MacNeil (Turn the Towns Teal, Inc.), Jennie Traill Schaeffer (me), Martha Traill Schaeffer (jewelry artist and mom)

I'm still on cloud nine after this Saturday's opening for Brenda Decker and benefit for Ovarian Cancer Awareness! TraillWorks saw a fantastic turnout with Jane MacNeil, president of Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. on hand to greet visitors and share information about ovarian cancer. Featured artist, Brenda Decker was on hand, as well as an appearance by jewelry artist, Martha Traill Schaeffer. I'm pleased to announce that though donations and sales during the day, TraillWorks will be donating about $279 to Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. to help in their awareness campaign across the country. 

Brenda Decker and Jennie Traill Schaeffer

Special thank yous go out to Krave Cafe and Caterers for their tasty and elegant spread, as well as to Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd. for the delicious Folonari and Trapiche wines. Both donated their respective offerings for the evening. 

Red Line, Acrylic on Panel, 24" x 36", ©2010 Brenda Decker, SOLD

And, congratulations on the success of Brenda Decker's artwork. Thus far we've had one sale, and though it was my favorite piece of the show, there are many other sublime pieces available through September 25th. Brenda was also an award-winner at the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council's Skylands Juried Show. She's worked hard to achieve the recognition; it's well-deserved. 

Circle of Hope Pendant, $95, ©2010 Martha Traill Schaeffer

Martha Traill Schaeffer and TraillWorks will continue to donate 10% of the retail price of any of her jewelry purchased during the rest of the month to Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. Her set, Circles of Hope, is still available, though congratulations is in order on her sale of a Circle of Hope pendant on Saturday.  

Homage to Julia, Oil and Collage on Panel, 24" x 24", ©2010 Jennie Traill Schaeffer, SOLD

And, to toot my own horn, because, as my associate Corrie says, my work should come first, I finally sold a painting via ArtQuiver on Saturday to a longtime student. Homage to Julia will be my first official ArtQuiver sale and helped me to donate money to Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. I'll be posting a blog soon about my upcoming commissions and their progress, so keep an eye out for that! 

Thank you again to Jane MacNeil of Turn the Towns Teal, Inc., Kate and Rich Hashway of Krave Cafe and Caterers, Frederick Wildman & Sons, Ltd., Martha Traill Schaeffer/Mom, Brenda Decker, and all of the friends, family and visitors who joined us and donated on Saturday to help save women's lives. 

Circles of Hope by Martha Schaeffer

Circle of Hope Pendant, $95, ©2010 Martha Traill Schaeffer

My mom drove out to Newton on Saturday with a bag in hand, jewelry inside of course. It was a drop-off of new jewelry, as well as an excuse to see her grandson. Either way, it was a great evening . . . with dinner at our favorite local Italian Restaurant. She brought quite a few new pieces to display for this Saturday's Ovarian Cancer benefit; what stood out among the copper bracelets and silver pendants was a set she designed for ovarian cancer awareness.

Not one to name her work, these she felt needed the title of "Circle of Hope". She told me she came up with this idea awhile back and finally got to making it. I can't imagine how difficult and emotional this may have been to make since she lost her best friend to ovarian cancer. Barbara would have been tremendously touched by mom mom's design, and her cause.

Circle of Hope Earrings, $60, ©2010 Martha Traill Schaeffer

Sold as a set for $150 or individually, the pieces are all hand-made from .999 fine silver. The rings are hand twisted and fused. The indicolite-colored crystals are hung on hand-wrapped silver. Even the ear-wires are hand-formed. 

Persian Chain Maille Bracelet, $125, by Martha Traill Schaeffer

Mom also brought me a new handwoven, Persian Chain Maille bracelet, accented with an aquamarine stone box clasp. These have been very popular, so far selling out of each one she's made for TraillWorks. I've heard from owners of the bracelets how light-weight and comfortable they are to wear; great for everyday or a night out. Each of these links are hand-closed, sterling silver chain.

10% of the sale of Martha's jewelry featuring the color teal will benefit Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. if purchased during the month of September. Reserve your's now before Saturday's event.

ArtWorks Benefit Ovarian Cancer Awareness

TraillWorks, Tealed.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Three out of the past four years, I have held some type of event to benefit an Ovarian Cancer organization. The previous two benefited Kaleidoscope of Hope Foundation, and this year I have decided to work with Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. which used to be under Kaleidoscope of Hope's umbrella. Gail MacNeil (1943-2008) coined the phrase, Turn the Towns Teal and also helped to start Kaleidoscope of Hope.

Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit committed to the mission of raising awareness of symptoms of ovarian cancer. It's a strange disease, in that if treated early, over 90% of women will survive. However, due to symptoms that seem more related to general aging and the lack of early detection screening tests, most cases are not diagnosed until the cancer has progressed into later stages. Only about 19% of all ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at this early stage and if found in later stages, three and higher, the survival rate is only about 30%. 

Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. is working in NJ and several other states to "teal" town centers with ribbons, lawn signs, and distribute symptom cards to raise awareness of the disease. This organization is special to me because it directly affected my family when my mom's college friend, Barbara Salamy, passed away from ovarian cancer several years ago. It was found too late and she fought for a little over a year. It was my first knowledge of the disease and since then several of my mom's close friends have been diagnosed. Fortunately, they were more aware of the disease's symptoms, following up early enough to be diagnosed sooner.  

Jenny Shotwell of Doggone Gorgeous and me tying teal ribbons.

Spring Street, Newton donned in teal ribbons.

Saturday, September 11th, coinciding with the opening reception of "Brenda Decker-New Acrylic Paintings and Recent Gelatin Monotypes" I'm hosting a benefit at TraillWorks for Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. From 5 - 8pm Brenda will be on hand to talk about her work and meet with visitors. Krave Cafe and Caterers has agreed to donate a spread of hors d' oeuvres and Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd. will donate Trapiche and Folonari wines for the cause. We will have symptom cards on hand so you can learn about ovarian cancer. Some of the jewelry artists have made teal jewelry and my work will be available in the lesson room. And, throughout the day, TraillWorks and its artists will donate 5% of all sales to Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. All customers will have the option to receive an additional 5% off or donate it to Turn the Towns Teal, Inc. 

Reclamation, 18" x 24", Acrylic on Panel, ©2010 Brenda Decker, $750

Brenda Decker of Stockholm, NJ, is a multi talented artist whose work for the show features both acrylics and gelatin monotypes. The pieces are rich in texture, spontaneity and strong in composition. Her work is loosely influenced by nature, but she tends to stay away from giving her work too much context, preferring the viewer to find their own meaning in the work. Strong at using both subtle tones and strong colors, several of the pieces feature the color teal.

I've known Brenda since exhibiting together at Art at the Mill in Lafayette, NJ and has always admired her work. It's an honor to be exhibiting it at my own gallery and to help support a very dear cause. I hope you'll join us for a special night. Learn more about the event here, or view a preview video of the exhibit.

New Artwork Available on ArtQuiver

Homage to Julia, Mixed Media on Panel, 24" x 24", ©2009 Jennie Traill Schaeffer,  $950

I'm pleased to announce that yesterday ArtQuiver uploaded new works to my virtual gallery. There are now six pieces available on their site. If you haven't been to ArtQuiver yet, take the time to peruse their galleries; it's a very upscale, user-friendly and customer-service friendly site. The work above, titled, Homage to Julia, was painted last year after seeing Julie and Julia. A friend had slipped a Julia Child newspaper clipping in my door and I researched aspects of Julia's kitchen from the Smithsonian Institute. This piece also represents my first exploration into collage since high school.

They just launched a new feature which allows buyers to vote for their favorite artworks. According to ArtQuiver, "if your preferred artist receives one of the highest vote totals, the entire portfolio will go on sale the following week." They will offer in the next week special sale pricing of 10% - 15% off. To vote for my work, visit my virtual gallery, select the works you prefer and then click "learn how" by the price to enter your selection. So go on and vote for my work!