Brenda Stratton Textiles

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T17:46:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile. I wasn't sure I would remember my password....but I did. :) It finally snowed and so it is beautiful on this first day of 2012 in Grand Falls-Windsor. Happy New Year!

Artistic Practice

2011-05-24T20:16:00.004-04:00

Now that I have a full time job there's not much time (ok no time) for making Craft. At least not right now. I'm sure once I settle into a routine and set up a studio space I'll be ready to make again. Lately I've been wondering what forms artistic practice can take. Instead of becoming frustrated at the lack of time I have right now or the little time I spend in one place, I've decided to appreciate the many forms an art practice can take. Like cooking, gardening, taking photos, maintaining a blog, nuturing others...well you see where I'm going. Artistic practice, I believe, can be many things, it's how you approach it!

Look up...way up...

2011-04-27T20:28:00.003-04:00

....Or just over your shoulder....can you see it? It's Spring....She's in the air and bringing everything to life.

One of my favorite times of year.

I will write again. ;)

Odds and Sods

2011-02-27T08:26:00.002-05:00

I went back to Fogo Island this week. Covered in snow, this rugged landscape is still just as beautiful as it was in October when everything looked golden. (See earlier post.) In the meantime, since moving to Grand Falls-Windsor and no longer having a studio (at least for the moment) I have returned to a craft that is one of my first memories of working with fibre....knitting. As it says in my profile, I think I started knitting when I was around seven years old and I believe I learned how to knit in Brownies. Do they still have Brownies? I'm using two different sock yarns to knit this scarf. I seem destined to make scarves. :) Happy Oscar Day! xxxb

They're not lying!

2011-02-22T18:15:00.003-05:00

I drove to Port Aux Basques yesterday. You'd think after seeing two moose on the side of the road I wouldn't be goofing around taking pictures while driving. It was such a large day...I guess I was giddy with the sunshine. There have been so many accidents in Newfoundland with so many moose on the highway. When I went to Roddickton in the fall (considered by some to be the Moose Capital of the province) I didn't see one moose. My brother pointed out that just because I didn't see them, didn't mean they weren't there. Sage advise. Drive safe where ever you are. b

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T17:05:00.000-05:00

Love Brenda and Blackie. xoxo

Winter Color

2011-01-26T20:38:00.002-05:00

I promised pictures of Gros Morne in my last post but I didn't go. As you can see we had a lovely winter storm that brought some lovely snow. Now all is right in the world again. I've been thinking I'm going to have to change the name of my blog soon...or else start making work again. Maybe I'll do just that...make new work. :) Stay warm.

At last.

2011-01-23T18:43:00.003-05:00

Winter has finally arrived and hopefully she will stick around for awhile. In the meantime I was in St. John's this past week and I visited my old school The Anna Templeton Centre, which is the home of the Textile Studies Program through the College of the North Atlantic. I spent hours working in that printing studio and I was missing being at art school for a few quiet minutes. Tomorrow, weather permitting, I'm off to Woody Point. I don't think I've ever been in Gros Morne National Park in the wintertime so I'll definitely have some photo's to share in the coming days. Really.

What are you changing?

2011-01-04T16:09:00.003-05:00

In 2011 I've decided to be more aware of what I eat and maybe even more importantly of where my food comes from and what's going into it before it gets to me. I'm actually looking forward to the challenge of being a Vegetarian but then again it's only January 4th. :) I'm also going to try to read more and I'm starting with Lawrence Hill who I met in Woody Point last summer. When I read the book I hear his voice which is kinda nice. And when I'm not reading and eating I'm walking Blackie....of course! Grand Falls-Windsor has beautiful walking trails with rabbits that you can see, and evidence of beavers that I have yet to see. I guess the chicken wire is meant to discourage them from eating the entire forest!

Happy, Happy New Year

2010-12-31T18:47:00.003-05:00

Winter?

2010-12-21T05:43:00.003-05:00

This may be the first day of winter but you would never know it in Newfoundland and Labrador. Rabbits are sticking out like a sore thumb (much to my delight) and it looks as if there are new buds coming out. Wait! Stop! The snow will come....I know it. And when it does snow I'll be happy. I might not be able to see the bunnies but I'll know they are there. :)

Fogo Part 2

2010-11-22T18:39:00.002-05:00

When I left my Bed & Breakfast at 7:30am it was like everything was bathed in gold. I think it might have something to do with the fact that when the sun comes up in Fogo there's nothing to get in its way. Like hills or mountains. At least that's what I came up with! Either way it sure was beautiful.

Fogo

2010-11-21T12:22:00.002-05:00

Last weekend I travelled to Fogo Island...and fell in love with yet another place in Newfoundland and Labrador. The trip along the Road to the Isles takes you to a place called Farewell where you take the Ferry to Fogo Island. When you disembark, just around the corner is a place called Seldom. I think I'd like to live in Seldom just to say, "I live in a place called Seldom". How cool would that be? Everything looked blue from the ferry and the waters are dotted with little islands which were beautiful to look at. I met some lovely people there and I'll have more photos tomorrow. Until then. b

Still travelling

2010-10-24T13:41:00.002-04:00

I've been travelling around the province lately mostly through rain and fog. The sun came out for a little while just outside of Rocky Harbour along with a beautiful rainbow. In the meantime, in the little time that I have actually spent in Grand Falls-Windsor, Blackie and I have managed to find a lovely little pond to walk around. Next on the agenda more travels along the Northern Peninsula and back out to Port Aux Basques and planning the West (Best) Coast Craft Fair. On another note, someone left a comment wondering if he could use some of my photo's. Don't see why not. And the Granite Coast is how the 'locals' refer to the road from Port Aux Basques to Rose Blanche. It's not actually a link...yet. Till next time. Brenda

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Travels

2010-10-01T16:40:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I travelled to Port Aux Basques and Rose Blanche on the south west coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. It was just a wee bit foggy on the way out (about 2 and a half hours from Corner Brook) but the fog finally cleared and the sun came out. Apparently the road from Port Aux Basques to Rose Blanche is known as the Granite Coast and it's not hard to see why. The Rose Blanche Lighthouse was designed by a Scottish Architect and was indeed made from local granite. I'll show some photo's of the inside tomorrow. Happy Weekend.

Studio Visit

2010-09-27T15:19:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I went to Woody Point in Gros Morne National Park...it's so beautiful there. I visited Barb Daniels' Studio. She's so lucky...just look at that view! Barb has a wonderful space and amazing collections. Later in the week I'm heading off to Rose Blanche which is on the south west coast of the island. I've never been there before...at least not that I can remember. My own studio practice is on the back burner right now so it sure is nice to be spending time with so many wonderfully gifted Craftspeople and Artists. What a life!

Travels

2010-09-24T14:04:00.003-04:00

Last week I travelled up the Northern Peninsula all the way to Conche. It was a spectacular view when we crested the hill before heading down to town. In the morning we went to Englee which was absolutely breathtaking in the calm and foggy morning. and now it's confession time. For anyone who was amused that I had started another blog last week you might be even more amused to learn that I really can't write that blog....at least not right now. :) So for the time being I'll just stay put. Have a great evening.

Another blog?

2010-09-18T19:05:00.002-04:00

This will probably amuse some but I have started another blog. I say this because I hardly ever post on this blog so to start another, possibly seems, shall we say...'a stretch'? My new blog is intented to document my travels and experiences as the new Craft Development Consultant for the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. In the meantime, last night I watched a beautiful documentary created by Maiwa in Vancouver on Natural Dyes. If you are a member of the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador you can ask to borrow the DVD and they will send it to you....that is...when I bring it back! Which I promise will be soon. Oh yeah, my new blog is www.nlgirlforcraft.blogspot.com

Two weeks in

2010-09-12T20:05:00.002-04:00

For the past two weeks I've been getting aquainted with my new job. Moved into my little house in Grand Falls-Windsor and my new (lovely) office, as well as spending the past week in St. John's. One of the real pleasures of this job will be travelling to all over the island. Last week I went to Kings Point and visited Linda and David at Kings Point Pottery. My photo's don't do justice to the beauty of their work and what they have created in that gorgeous spot. Luckily I'll get to visit them again!

Countdown

2010-08-24T11:23:00.003-04:00

As I count the days down to my next new role, I wonder what will become of the 'old' me. Will I still create? or more importantly, will I have time? I guess I will have to make time, which of course I know I will do. And...I will definitely have to get more creative when it comes to writing this blog because now I have to serve as an example to all my clients! In the meantime, I wanted to say Thank You to everyone who has wished me luck in my new role. That means alot to me. I will do my very best. xxxb

Woody Point

2010-08-21T09:21:00.003-04:00

Just a few photo's of Woody Point...where once again there was magic in the air. The music of The Once is still swimming in my head as well as the lovely Sarah Harmer....and I can still hear the words of Lawrence Hill. I'm not sure what I will be doing this time next year but hopefully I will always be able to get to Gros Morne National Park on the second last week of August to take in the Writer's at Woody Point. I can't imagine wanting to be anywhere else.

Sunday and Monday

2010-08-16T19:19:00.002-04:00

Today we (my Craft Collective and I) set up our show at Writer's at Woody Point which is a magical six days of Writers from across Canada and Musicians from Newfoundland and Labrador. I'm going back on Wednesday to stay until Friday. A little mini-break before heading off to my new life. And speaking of my new life, one thing I'm really going to miss is Sunday evenings on the deck overlooking the Bay of Islands with my friend (and landlord) Trudy.

Happy Summer

2010-08-09T19:35:00.002-04:00

I was really on a roll there for awhile...afterall I think I made three posts in a row didn't I? I know, nothing to brag about. I always intended to simply write about what goes on in the life of a Craftsperson and what it takes to build a craft business. You know...show the inner workings and maybe inspire someone along the way. Now in my role as Craft Development Consultant for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, that will be my job. Needless to say I'm not making much work of my own what with packing and looking for spot to call home and buying my first car no less. And just for the record, I'm not really off drinking every night but I did enjoy a pint or two...(or was it was three?) this past weekend while catching up with friends. Hope you are doing something just as nice where ever you are.

Beauty

2010-08-03T14:51:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I went on a helicopter ride over Gros Morne National Park, with my two friends Shawn and Tess. It was fantastic! Thank you Tess.

Beginnings

2010-07-29T18:10:00.003-04:00

I didn't intend to keep it a secret but I was waiting for an official announcement. (Which took place on Tuesday.) So....officially............I am the new Craft Development Consultant with the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. What that means (in a nutshell)? I'll be based in Grand Falls-Windsor and I will travel around the province assisting Craftspeople in whatever way I can! Now...I just have to find a lovely home for Blackie, Isabelle, Coalie and me. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time!

Change is good.

2010-07-25T16:21:00.002-04:00

On Thursday I was offered a very exciting new job and celebrated by going down the MarbleZipLine My new job means moving to a new town but change is good. I'm excited about the possibilities. Hope everyone is having a great weekend. Brenda

2010-07-19T07:29:00.002-04:00

Yesterday there was thunder around the hills of Corner Brook for most of the afternoon and well into the evening. I love thunder and lightning storms. Blackie does not. It wasn't so much a storm yesterday as there was no rain and I really didn't see any lightning however it did make for a beautiful sky. Guess I should get to work!

Farmer's Market

2010-07-18T08:52:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was the Farmer's Market. It didn't rain so that was good but there weren't too many people around either. So, for the first time I didn't even sell all my muffins! My core group of friends and I have decided to support the market because we believe in it and the importance of buying local. Look for us every Saturday from 10-2 until the end of October. Hope to see you there. :)

Pink

2010-07-15T18:12:00.003-04:00

I've been making what I call Skinning Scarves for the Farmer's Market. I decided I would use some of the silk I have in my studio that I've dyed over the past year or so. So far I've sold three each day which is pretty good I think. They are reversible with a different color and design. Doesn't the Polka Dot Shawl look good on Marie Louise? The strawberries are wild...I noticed them on my walk this morning and went back this evening to pick them. I'm going to make a lovely dessert tomorrow.

Green

2010-07-14T15:35:00.002-04:00

I read a book earlier this year called The One Hundred Mile Diet by Alisa Smith and JB MacKinnon. It got me thinkin' about where my own food comes from. Living in Newfoundland and Labrador most of it is not coming from here. Since I planted my little raised bed I've been eating my own lettuce almost every day....um...yum, yum. My friend Trudy simply planted her lettuce in containers...how smart is that!? Next year? My own greenhouse. xxxb Think I will write about the colour pink tomorrow.

She's French...

2010-07-13T16:44:00.006-04:00

My new dress form's name is Marie Louise. She's lovely isn't she? I bought her at a lovely shop in town call Main Street Design and Saturday at the Farmer's Market Urve named her. And speaking of France, Guernsey is located between France and England. This is a beautiful story...heartbreakingly sad...but beautiful. Tomorrow I will write a post about the colour green! Wow! :)

Happy Canada Day

2010-07-01T11:49:00.002-04:00

Rhubarb

2010-06-23T14:10:00.003-04:00

I've always been quite jealous of those who have their own rhubarb patches. Last night my friend Trudy gave me half of her's. How lovely is that? I thought I would repay this kind gesture by sharing my Rhubarb Oatmeal Muffin Recipe.

In a small bowl combine:
1 Cup Buttermilk
1 Free Range Egg
1 Tsp Vanilla
1/2 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
In a larger bowl combine:
2 1/2 Cups Flour
1 1/4 Cups Brown Sugar
1 Cup Oats
1 Tbs Grated Orange Peel
1 Tsp Salt
Add the wet ingredients to the dry. Then add:
2 Cups chopped Rhubarb.
Bake for 30 minutes at 350 Degrees F.
Enjoy. xxxb

Last Saturday

2010-06-09T11:01:00.004-04:00

In an effort to get my spunk back and to contribute to the 'local' way of thinking I took part in the Farmer's Market last weekend. It was actually a beautiful day (it's been cold and raining otherwise) and it was great to be there with friends and share a laugh or two. I decided to treat it as sort of an incubator for all my ideas that might not be appropriate for other venues. With that in mind, and without overthinking it, I decided to stitch up some of the silk I've dyed over the past little while into skinny ties for your lovely neck or around your lovely waist. I also decided to try my hand at selling Rubarb Oatmeal Muffins from rubarb I picked myself. The day was a great success indeed and I'm already coming up with new ideas when the market starts up again in mid-July. Hope to see you there. :)

2010-06-07T19:30:00.003-04:00

I'm still here. I've kinda lost my spunk but I'm not giving up....not yet anyway. I'm still working on that Tea Towel idea...and...I've been weaving.

The perfect job

2010-05-18T16:54:00.003-04:00

A friend of mine recently wondered what was the definition of a perfect job. For the past six years I have trying to make a living has a full-time Craftsperson, which I believed to be the perfect job. Sometimes I did very well. Sometimes not so much. Lately, (during the 'not so much' times) I've been teaching, curating an Art Exhibit, organizing various events, sitting on various committees and, looking for other paid positions. Somewhere along the way I lost interest in creating. I'm hoping that will change. In the meantime, I'm fairly certain, that the perfect job includes a dog! :)

More progress.

2010-03-14T18:42:00.002-04:00

Well...I've been busy but this idea of mine to hand silk screen tea towels has approximately 15o steps before completion! I finally (finally) unpacked my mitre saw that I bought a last year and she is a beauty! so I have started to build my screens. The samples are a linen/cotton blend from Telio and Cie which are beautiful. While I orchestrate all the steps I've also spent some time honing my photo skills. Still a way to go but I'm enjoying the ride. The ability to crop photo's after you download them is genius!

Making progress

2010-02-25T13:48:00.002-05:00

It is absolutely beautiful outside so it's really hard to stay inside. Nevertheless, I have been researching, drawing and photocopy several design ideas for my new product line. Like several artists I follow through various blogs, I too wanted to try my hand at designing a line of tea towels. (Those are Caplin in case you were wondering.) I want to use Newfoundland and Labrador motifs and focus on the tourist market this coming summer, to start. I will share more of my process in the coming days. Go Canada Go!

My nose

2010-02-11T16:03:00.003-05:00

What's that saying?...'She couldn't see her nose in spite of her face?' Or something like that. Anywho, I was explaining to a friend that I was combing through books looking for Newfoundland imagery and she wandered why I didn't just go out and take a few photos of my own. Now why didn't I think of that? So that's what I did on this beautiful day on my way to Lark Harbour to teach the Grade Five's how to weave on a cardboard loom. (Most enjoyable by the way.) I've also been dyeing up some 'Circle Shawls' in what are considered the 'trend' colours for this season. I hardly ever follow trends...in fact I like to set them!! lol

Reflection

2010-02-08T14:45:00.004-05:00

Birthdays are always a time for reflection. Are they not? I decided this month should be a time to try and follow every idea. Two reasons...first I have a Grant to create new work and, I'll probably have to get a 'real' job soon for awhile so I should take advantage of the time I have. Try as I might over the past five years, I still haven't figured out how to make a good living as a Craftsperson. In the meantime, I cashed in my Gift Cards from Christmas and bought this great book which will have me dreaming about Paris I'm sure. Meanwhile, my first idea to follow, is to use only undyed fleece to make felt.

Winter came back.

2010-02-04T14:39:00.002-05:00

Ah...winter has returned to the west coast of Newfoundland and Labrador and all is well again. In the meantime I was successful in getting that Grant I mentioned a post or two ago. A big 'Thank You' to the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. I've been combing through books looking for imagery of 'land and sea' and ordering supplies for my newly purchased loom. I've got to find room in my apartment for the loom (not sure that's really going to work)and redesign my work table in my studio, to start screen printing again. I'd better get to work!

So here's a question.

2010-01-19T15:47:00.002-05:00

How do you photograph scarves? A really great photograph that shows the texture, colour and drape? Already I know that photographs improve 100% when you use a tripod...check; and natural light is probaly easier to work with or certainly the cheapest...check. So that's my big goal over the next month...to figure out how to take the best photographs of my work. My end goal is an etsy shop. Really. I am always impressed by the Designers/Makers who have several photographs including a photograph of how the work is packaged. Please feel free to offer suggestions. xxxb

I have a plan.

2010-01-08T10:54:00.004-05:00

At least I always do when I first start out on my daily walk. Everything seems possible at the beginning of a walk...all the ideas...all the plans. It's only when I'm half way around that I start to get anxious again. January is always a funny time when there are no deadlines and therefore it's a little difficult to get back down to work. (At least it is for me.) Next thing you know, it's May! and seasonal shops are asking for work that I should have made in January. I realized during the christmas shows last month that I really need to develop new work. Now the big question is, what? I have long been wanting to create a product that talks about the culture of Newfoundland and Labrador. We are very lucky here in this province (well for a number of reasons) for the great support we get from the Craft Council. Every two years we can apply for the New Creations Grant that allows us time and money to develop new work. How wonderful is that? However, if I won the lottery on Wednesday I would have no problem chucking the works and moving here.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T21:39:00.003-05:00

May all your wishes come true. I have a good feeling about 2010. xxxb

Taking a break

2009-12-29T08:21:00.003-05:00

I've been taking a break from the Studio that is, but soon I will have to decide what the next step is. During the show in St. John's in November I realized I had saturized my market because I wasn't selling as well as in the past, and because I had so many people tell me they already owned my work. In Toronto, I think price was the overwhelming reason why I didn't leave the show a rich woman (my work generally starts at $90). So, I either have to come up with a lower priced item or/and design a new product that is just as intriguing as Felt. When you hand dye all your materials and hand make all your product it's hard to make something 'lower priced'. Remember what Julia Child says, "make no apologies". So I'm going to have to design a new product for 2010. In the meantime, it looks like I will have to get a job for awhile and maybe over the next year decide whether I should go back to school and get a teaching degree or become a Chef! David Rocco is helping me to decide on the latter. :)

Boxing Day

2009-12-27T09:03:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was beautiful. Just as it should be when there are no stores open and you can go for a walk in the woods for as long as you wish. Did I tell you I love winter? I love winter. Think I'll go back to that same spot today and make a plan for 2010.

2009-12-26T08:27:00.001-05:00

Happy Holidays. Hope to see you again in the new year where I can only hope to do better! :)

Toronto

2009-12-09T19:08:00.003-05:00

I am back from the One of a Kind Show in Toronto and all in all, it was pretty good. Mind you I didn't enjoy the success that my friend Shawn over at island sweet experienced, (well done Shawn!) but all in all it wasn't too bad either. I am neither rich nor poor. And honestly, what the heck else am I gonna do? It was my first time doing all 11 days and I'm not going to lie...it's hard work. Luckily my next door neighbour at the Show was a real treat. Thank you Vesna. And a big thank you to everyone who wished me luck, who bought my work and who just stopped to say they liked the work. Well, of course, it's always nicer if they buy but I guess that's why we go back! Thank you to everyone who has purchased my work and stay tuned for new work in 2010. I will write again soon. xxxb The photo is one of the entrance's to the CNE Direct Energy Building where the show took place. Beautiful.

Toronto

2009-11-20T08:03:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow I leave for Toronto and the One of a Kind Show. Can't wait. If you are in Toronto, stop by and say hello. All the best. xxxb

St. John's

2009-11-12T07:20:00.003-05:00

One down...one more to go. I'm just back from the Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Council's Fine Craft and Design Show in St. John's. To be honest, it wasn't my best show but I think not because my work wasn't appreciated, but because I think I have saturated the market. I met so many people who told me they already own my work. And you can't really complain about that now, can you? Next year, I'll go with an entirely new product. In the meantime, let's hope I haven't saturated my market in Toronto! Bye for now.

Countdown

2009-10-29T07:41:00.004-04:00

I'm still dyeing outside even though some of my pots are freezing overnight and my cd collection is serving as a 'spot to put things'. I like this crazy time when I'm getting ready for all the shows and I also like the creativity that comes when there is a deadline looming. Of course, I still manage to go for my daily walk in the woods with my dog. (Actually we go for two walks a day). Yesterday we spotted three nests. Kinda like finding a surprise. Nice.

October

2009-10-05T17:46:00.004-04:00

So how do you photograph scarves? I'm just trying out the Lightbox but in all honesty, I think I should be outside on a beach somewhere. I made Creme Brulee on Saturday night for my friend's Birthday Dinner. Unfortunately it was more like Creme Carmel. The fat in the cream is supposed to stop that from happening! Hum...it's nice to have challenges....isn't it?

Pink

2009-10-04T20:07:00.003-04:00

2009-10-02T16:24:00.005-04:00

While it is beautiful outside....not so much inside. However, that just means work is being done. I've made the decision to do all 11 days of the One of a Kind Show in Toronto, in addition to the Fine Craft and Design Show in St. John's, along with my job as coordinator of the show here in Corner Brook. Needless to say, I have a lot of work to accomplish between then and now. What I have noticed when you take on such committments, is that it forces you to start thinking in different ways. You start thinking about creating 'collections' of work because you know it will all be shown together and you also start thinking about colour and colour combinations, not to mention creating new work, and trying to design new booth displays. Chaotic? yes. Enjoyable? Absolutely.

Yellow

2009-09-28T16:51:00.003-04:00

Just a little fun compliments of poppytalk

Ready, steady, go.

2009-09-20T08:15:00.002-04:00

So here it is September 20th, and hate to say it, but November is just around the corner. Not that I like to wish my time away but for many of us Craftspeople/Makers/Artists, November is the time we come out of our Studios to show and sell our work in Christmas shows and I'm starting to feel a little pressure because I'm planning to do three shows and there's not a lot of time between now and then. I'm taking advantage of all the nice days to get as much dyeing done outside as I possibly can. Is anyone else panicking yet?

Three in a row!

2009-09-02T15:32:00.004-04:00

Well fiddle dee dee...I think this is the first time I have ever written three times in a row. Must be something in the air. I forgot to provide the link to Jennifer's Website which everyone should visit if they are on the West Coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. (You are Welcome anytime Lori and Tim!) My friend Shawn gave me her light box which certainly helps focus in on the work and I'll keep working on that. Today I dyed small skeins of silk which I recently ordered from the Silk Tree in British Columbia. See you tomorrow?

...and just a few more

2009-09-01T20:16:00.002-04:00

Jennifer Galliott is a young Artist who has the sweetest studio in Woody Point. It's the pink one!

2009-08-31T20:05:00.002-04:00

I'm back to work in my studio but memories of my summer in Gros Morne linger.

If tie dye is wrong then I don't want to be right!

2009-07-30T11:55:00.002-04:00

That's Woody Point on the top. So pretty. Living without Internet, Phone or TV is proving to be not as easy as I thought but I am managing to get a little work done. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with these pieces (and there are a lot more) but hopefully it will come to me soon. It's so hot here and we had the most incredible thunder and lightning storm with the heaviest rain I have ever seen in my life. Happy summer. xxxb

Post Card from Glenburnie

2009-07-21T11:20:00.003-04:00

At last I'm connected to the world! I am now living without a television, a car, a 'real' phone or internet access... except when I walk down the road to the local cafe. The scenery is beautiful and I'm trying to get work done and even develop some new work, although I have been spending a little too much time on the beach! I've started working with the technique of Shibori again so I'll have some images of that next time. Hope your summer is as inspiring as mine...where ever you are. b

Tomorrow...

2009-07-03T12:08:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow I'm moving to Glenburnie in Gros Morne National Park for the next two months. I've worked very hard this past winter and spring so that now I can spend this time making my own work for a change. I've been moving things down the past week and tomorrow I'm putting my three cats in their little carriers, the dog will sit up front and away we will go. Maybe my blog won't suck anymore. Stay tuned. xxxb

My blog sucks!

2009-06-12T16:36:00.004-04:00

What's the point of having a Blog if you never write? The Blogs I visit, write everyday or at least regularly, and I count on that. Recently, someone I know suggested I was a perfectionist. How can that be? Nothing I do is perfect! But that'a just it, (from what I understand), perfectionists don't get things done because nothing they do is good enough. You know, that actually makes sense to me. Here's another thing I've noticed about myself. I'm soooo busy working in other jobs trying to make money, that I don't actually have enough time to make my own work anymore. So what's the friggin' point?? If anyone has the answer to that one I'd appreciate an answer. ;) In the meantime...I am finally (finally) in the home stretch on the research I was conducting and I will be finished teaching next week. Amazingly, a very (very) lovely friend of mine has given me her 'schoolhouse' for the summer which is located in Gros Morne National Park. (see pictures) If I can't accomplish anything here, I will stop trying. Well not really. With just a week until absolute freedom it's time for me to order supplies so I can take advantage of a few months off until I have to look for another job. lol. xxxb and if you are in the area...please stop by!

Here comes fortune!

2009-05-10T14:05:00.003-04:00

Now that I have the fame can fortune be far behind? I'm very proud indeed to be on this month's cover of the Craft Council's Newsletter. Inside I share my design process. Although lately there hasn't been much 'process' happening! what with all the other projects I've taken on. I filed my final report on all the research that I carried out for the Craft Council last week (although I still have a little work left to do) and now I'm on to teaching 21 classes of Grade Two's. We make felt balls for the first project and the second project we are doing natural dyeing. I'm having them 'hide' beans and marbles inside the fabric with the help of elastic bands. With the help of a microwave I'm hoping to have three or four dye pots with exotic and household dyestuff for colour. I also found some rusty nails where I walk each day so I've also set up little 'experiments' to see what happens when you introduce rust to silk. Sometime in June I hope to get back to my own work. Won't that be lovely! xxxb

2009-04-13T19:45:00.007-04:00

I'm just a shadow right now (*.*) but my work for the Craft Council is almost...almost complete. There will be a few long days and nights of report writing and a few other tasks to complete but in two weeks it will be done. It is incredible how quickly the past four months have gone by. The month of May will go just as fast as I will be teaching 21 classes of Grade Two students how to make felt and tie-dye bandanas. I can hear the robins outside and in my hand are the Pussy Willows I cut this morning. Warmer weather cannot be too far away?

Felt Handbags and Skiing

2009-03-19T07:47:00.002-04:00

Once upon a time I used to make felt handbags and ski alot. Now I don't really do either. However yesterday was so absolutely beautiful that I decided to join a friend of mine who was in town skiing at Marble Mountain. I could not have picked a better day if I tried! As for the felt handbags...I'm teaching a workshop at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College on Saturday. Students can make handbags, tea cosies, slippers, or hats...whatever their little heart's desire. I'm looking forward to it. Take care. Brenda

Whoosh!

2009-03-08T19:20:00.003-04:00

Whoosh......there goes another three weeks! I taught a class at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College yesterday in Natural Dyeing. I also combine that with the technique of Shibori I wish I had thought to take a picture of my students' scarves because they were beautiful. I attended a Photography Workshop 2 weekends ago and learned the most important thing to do when taking photos is to use a tripod. I have a tripod which I used that weekend but now I'm missing the bolt to attach my camera! One step forward...three steps back. Ya have to laugh. I'm going to try to write at least once a week and include something I'm working on. In the meantime please enjoy my friend Shawn's Blog as she posts everyday. take care. Brenda

I took a little trip.

2009-02-15T19:43:00.002-05:00

I was in St. John's this week working out of the Craft Council which is located in Downtown St. John's. Who knew I would have to go there, to see the sun! But shine it did and although it was cold earlier in the week it was quite lovely there and nice to be back in the Big City. That's what we on the west coast of the island refer to St. John's as. ;) As you can see they have no snow...and we have so much snow that I had to dig out my compost bin for fear I would never see it again! Needless to say I spent most of the weekend shovelling snow which I actually like because it's another reason to stay outside. The view of the water is what is known as The Narrows. Narrow but deep. It's the view out of the Craft Council building so I'm not quite sure how anyone gets any work done because it is so beautiful. Will I ever make work again? I hope so...but for now I have to be like the Groundhog and keep my head down for the next six weeks to get this research work accomplished. I have that Photography 4-day Workshop this coming weekend...can't wait.

Is this a sign?

2009-02-08T18:56:00.008-05:00

I was just visiting some of my favorite Blogs. Abigail Doan is an Artist in New York: http://www.abigaildoan.blogspot.com/ Low and behold today she is talking about going to this Felt Exhibition at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in New York City. I have never been to New York but I have always wanted to go to New York. It's just like me to finally make a little money and blow it on a trip. But I ask you, what could be more important than going to New York City? particularily when there is an Exhibition on Felt happening? I always dreamed I would go in November and skate at Lincoln Centre and see the Big Christmas Tree and all the decorations. But Spring I'm sure would be just as nice. On another note I attended a Workshop over the weekend on Internet Marketing. In two weeks time I'm doing a 4-day Workshop on Photography. Prepared to be dazzled in the upcoming months. ;)

February

2009-02-05T06:07:00.004-05:00

I came up with a little idea to display my scarves. I think she is soooo cute. She's cute right? I am very busy these days carrying out the work for the Craft Council. Soon I'll be travelling across the province trying to hear from everyone who is part of the Craft Industry. I've also agreed to teach in the school system again. (That may have been a mistake. I may have to split myself in two.) I couldn't help myself because I absolutely love teaching little kids. They are hilarious and they look at you as if you are a Star. Pure magic. A few years ago a friend of mine gave me a pair of snowshoes. Everytime I wear them I'm really glad I got such a nice gift. One of the reasons I like snow lately is because it 'records' who's been there before me. I know the woods where I walk are filled with bunnies but it's not until the snow falls that I know for sure because I can see their little prints in the snow. I was delighted to see that three readers had left comments on my last post. I'm so flattered that you visit. I'd better get back to work. :)

Well what do you know!

2009-01-18T18:54:00.002-05:00

I worked in the studio a little this weekend, when I wasn't shovelling snow or just trying to stay warm. I really wanted to over dye the shibori piece more then anything and I love it. It's torture (well not really) trying to cut all the threads to see the over all pattern. How beautiful it that I ask you? Now the work begins to find a supplier of wool yardage. (I think I probably bought this piece while I still lived in Calgary). Silk suppliers I have, but I might find it a little difficult to find what I'm looking for in wool or possibly a wool/silk blend or even a wool/ spandex blend. The hunt is on! In the meantime I should probably think about taking down my holiday decorations...or should I? b

The sun came out...for awhile.

2009-01-14T15:21:00.003-05:00

The sun came out on Tuesday and it was lovely. Haven't seen it since! I have a new job. For the next four months I will be conducting research in the form of designing and deploying surveys, conducting focus groups, one on one interviews, etc. for the

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. I'm very excited to be doing this work but I will also be quite busy as I will have to travel to St. John's a number of times and also travel across the province to meet as many Craftspeople, Craft Artists, Designer/Makers as I can. The work will (hopefully) help determine where we can offer additional training to help us all become more successful! A lofty goal indeed. In my downtime I'm actually reading a book! which is another lofty goal in my world these days. I have also revisited a technique that used to facinate me...Shibori. Shibori is the ancient art of stitched resist to create pattern. Here I'm using a wool/silk mix and I've stitched across the width of the cloth in running stitch. Then I pull the threads to gather the cloth. Tomorrow I will overdye and then remove the threads to reveal the pattern. Stay tuned and stay warm. xxxb

Another year older.

2008-12-31T06:54:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year. May your wishes come true in 2009.

2008-11-27T14:44:00.003-05:00

Well this is not very good.....not posting since September! Talk about busy. Last weekend was the Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Council's Fine Craft & Design Fair in St. John's. Such a lovely show and I practically sold out which was wonderful. It was a busy Autumn. Working all day at my job and then working in the Studio at night and on the weekends. As well, I was working on a Proposal to carry out a number of research projects for the Craft Council and hopefully I will hear about that today. Fingers crossed. Someone in St. John's was kind enough to loan me a loom for a little while and I recently purchased a knitting machine so I'm hoping to expand my work in the new year. I'm excited about that. although I won't stop felting. The other image is something I'm working on right now. Until next time. xxxb

Beauty.

2008-09-03T06:37:00.003-04:00

Just a few shots of Gros Morne National Park where I spent a few days, a few weeks back. Nothing short of inspiring. The mountain views were taken from Neddies Harbour and the second photo from the top shows the Tablelands which is the earths' mantle. In other words, what is normally about 5 kilometres below the surface of the earth was pushed up by glaciers about 10 thousand years ago. (I really paid attention during that Tour!)(At least I think that's how it goes.) I will write again this weekend.

Work was done!

2008-09-02T19:28:00.003-04:00

In the words of Frank Costanza, "I'm back, Baby!" and it feels good. Managed to make three scarves over the weekend and finished another tonight. Perhaps it is the type of silk I use but felting is never easy and after two months off, I'm a little rusty I guess. I'm grateful to have a job right now but I want that dream of mine...to become a full time maker...not to be a dream anymore. Tomorrow I will show you some pictures of Gros Morne National Park where I spent a few days last week. Sleep well.

End of the summer wine.

2008-08-31T09:25:00.006-04:00

I'm not really sure what my title today refers to, but I like to think it's about a summer well spent and so it's appropriate. My blog is one year old tomorrow. Did I learn anything this year? I hope so. I don't think I'm alone when I say that September feels like more of a time for renewal than January 1st. My work is being featured in a Brochure for the Atlantic Trade Show which takes place in Halifax each February. It's nice to be recognized. I should probably get back to the studio soon! ;)

Away but not forgotten.

2008-07-17T16:24:00.008-04:00

I decided to take a break. Afterall, I had to get a job, and I thought it would be a good time to forget about Making. But when you are a Maker you can't forget. So I'm going back into the Studio this weekend to pick up where I left off. I really like my job and I love the people that I'm working with, but it's not me. So, as hard as the last four years have been, trying to make a living with my own two hands, I will keep trying until I figure it out. I'll start with what I know. I'll not put any pressure on myself to create something new and fantastic. I'll just start with what I know, and go from there.

Saturday

2008-06-08T17:07:00.003-04:00

Our lawn is not so much a lawn, as it is a field of dandelions. Doesn't really matter to me. Yesterday I picked a bunch and put them in the dyepot. It made a very lovely shade of yellow on a silk/cotton blend. Now what should I do next? (ps...I did finally get the lawnmower working, but luckily I think the dandelions just duck down when it passes by!)

2008-06-04T18:26:00.003-04:00

Here is the link to JanetDavis

A meeting.

2008-06-02T19:05:00.006-04:00

Over the weekend I travelled to New-Wes-Valley in central Newfoundland and Labrador, to attend the AGM of the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. I'm now the new Vice-Chair and very proud to serve such a hard working group of people. The landscape is beautiful and dramatic there. I also (finally) got a chance to visit Norton's Cove Studio. Janet Davis is a Printmaker and also does amazing work in Textiles. We met a few years back and I have admired her ever since. The yellow house took Janet and her husband Duke over seven years to bring back to life and it is absolutely beautiful. It was a great weekend even with all the meetings!

Nothing is written in stone.

2008-05-18T19:20:00.004-04:00

Four years ago I left my lovely job at the Alberta College of Art & Design in Calgary and moved back home to Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador to follow a dream. That dream was to be a full time Craftsperson. But making a living with my own two hands has turned out to be harder then I thought. Someone recently said to me, you can change anything in your life if you really want to. Nothing is written in stone.

Where was I?

2008-03-29T16:32:00.003-04:00

I had such high hopes...such plans.... but life got in the way. Trying to teach Grade One's and Two's how to make felt turned out to be a great deal harder than I thought, so basically I ended up doing most of the work in my studio. I'm loving it just the same. So far I think I've strung approximately 200 felt ball necklaces with possibly another 200 to go. With only one hour a week per class you can't really accomplish much but one thing is for sure....kids love working with fleece and they are so wonderfully creative. So now I've gone and gotten myself another job (to try and clear up some debt)(oh the life of an Artist) so I'm not sure if I'll ever make another thing again! Well that could never happen but I am a little worried to say the least. Although, I do tend to function better when I have a lot of things happening. I will write again soon. Brenda

Work?....what work?

2008-02-08T10:43:00.000-05:00

Ok so I can't lie. I should be in the Studio building up product not to mention preparing for my classes. But it is an absolutely spectacular day out there today so instead of working, I went for a snow shoe with Blackie around Tippings Pond in Massey Drive. The trees looked as if they had tinsel and crystals. Have a fantastic weekend. Brenda :)

February

2008-01-31T18:43:00.000-05:00

This is what my work table looked like today. Not much felting going on these days...for a number of reasons. I needed to search for a new supplier of Fleece. I need fleece that's from New Zealand which is sometimes difficult to source when you live in Newfoundland and Labrador. I placed an order with RH Lindsay I had recently changed suppliers but the fleece was from South Africa...beautiful to look at and touch but it was almost too perfect or just overprocessed. I like fleece that has a few bits and bobs in it, (twigs and grasses etc.) and the best fleece I have ever had comes from New Zealand. Another reason why I'm not in full production at the moment, is because I received a Grant from the Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Council to take time to develop new work. I want to start working with pattern (again) and move a little away from felting. One thing that holds me back (I think) is that I don't draw. did I mention this already? I can't believe tomorrow is the first day of February. Happy Birthday Heidi. I will write again soon.

Busy....

2008-01-28T15:37:00.000-05:00

We have a great deal of snow in Corner Brook which is making it quite hard to stay inside.
I'm still cutting out and stitching shapes in industrial felt, and I've finally figured out how to dye it rich, deep shades. However, I think I really want to be cutting and stitching silk, so I'm going to try some new work in reverse applique.
As mentioned before, I want to start setting goals mostly because I'm tired of always feeling like I'm behind in everything usually because I do leave things till the last minute! ;) I recently read somewhere that it is a good idea to write out all the steps to accomplishing a goal.
I'll be teaching all the Grade Two classes on the west coast of the province through a program called, Learning through the Arts. I'm going to teach them felting...of course! How exciting.

New Year...New Goals

2008-01-09T17:12:00.001-05:00

After a little break, I went back to my Studio this week. I have a lot of stuff in my Studio so I'm trying to organize and let go of some things I know I will never need. At least I hope I won't. I think too much clutter is getting in my way these days.
I have some definite goals for 2008 and I will share them in the next day or two. Like I said before, I've never been one to set goals for myself but that too is getting in my way. So, I'm trying to change that.
Three years ago, I ordered several yards of 100% wool industrial felt which I intended to use as 'walls' in my Retail Show Booth. It's beautiful material but I didn't like it in the booth so I'm trying to put it to better use. and I've been wanting to embroider for a long time now so I'm...'exploring my options'. I have some ideas but they're not fully formed yet.
And remember that beautiful green I told you about before the holiday season? I wasn't lying!:)
So what are some of your goals? Brenda

Happy New Year.

2007-12-31T17:56:00.001-05:00

Here's to amazing possiblities in 2008. Thanks for visiting. Brenda

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T19:12:00.000-05:00

I added a little bling to the Birch Tree outside our home.

We had snow and it's been cold but it's raining here now, on Christmas Eve. Oh well, it's still cozy inside. Here's hoping all your dreams come true. Brenda

Future goals and handbags.

2007-12-17T13:49:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to make handbags for awhile. I want them to reference my scarves so I'm felting on top of silk and also felting in various threads and yarns for embellishment. The texture on the inside is beautiful and I'll try to have a picture of that tomorrow. It's easy to tell we are nearing the shortest day of the year. Even in the outdoors the lighting is not so great. We had a little snow storm over night but it's supposed to turn to rain later today. I hope it doesn't. I love snow and I love winter, and when it arrives I want it to stay.

I can't believe another year is almost over. I've never been one to set goals. I just sort of take things as they go but if I'm going to succeed as a full time Craftsperson/Designer-Maker/Artist (does anyone know what we are calling ourselves these days?), I'm going to have to make a plan and follow through. So more about that later as well.

Good news from the Shop in Toronto, Margot received them on Thursday and sold two pieces on Friday! Stay warm all.

Friday

2007-12-07T07:19:00.000-05:00

I finished the order for the shop in Toronto yesterday and put the work in the mail. I met Margot at the One of a Kind Christmas Show last week. Her shop, Any Direct Flight , is on Queen Street East and I'm really excited to have my work there.

As you can see, I don't have really exciting packaging at the moment so that's the next thing I want to work on as well. I do have lovely Hangtags though so that's one thing I can mark off my list!

I'm working on a Grant Proposal today but I'm also hoping to make a few pieces in the studio today. I dyed the most beautiful green a few days ago and I'm anxious to make more pieces using that fleece. Happy Friday!

Following through...

2007-12-04T07:49:00.000-05:00

As I said previously, I'm determined to take (good) photographs of my work but I've got to say...taking photos of textiles is one tough nut to crack!

I felt on different types of silk and here I'm using a Silk Pongee. The felting creates an amazing texture on the back. They are so soft and light but extremely warm.

I'm working on an order for a shop in Toronto called Any Direct Flight so I'd better get to work! Have a nice day.

One of a Kind Show and Felt Scarves

2007-12-01T16:29:00.000-05:00

And just like that, the One of a Kind Christmas Show is over for another year. Happens every year, I worry and stress until my booth is set up and then I kick myself for never having enough work! The photo of my booth was taken on the second last day after I removed a set of ladders in an attempt to make the other ladders look like they contained more work. My work sold very well I am very happy to report.

Thank you to all those who made purchases and stopped by to talk about the work. Although Felt is considered the 'first fabric of civilization' (it says so on my Hangtags!) alot of people don't know what they're looking at when they first see my work. Most people are amazed when they realize just how much work goes into making felt.

In an attempt to speed up production I'm going to start searching for a small woollen mill that might be willing to custom dye small batches.

The photo of the Christmas Tree was taken outside the Eaton Centre on Younge Street. When you live in a city of just 26-thousand people it's nice to get to the 'big city' once in awhile. take care.

Next...

2007-11-14T12:31:00.000-05:00

I've been working at the YMCA's Youth Employment Services since August but last Wednesday was my last day. I may work there again, but not until I return from the One of a Kind Christmas Show which is this week in Toronto. I've been working day and night to try and make as much work as possible to bring to the show but with a full time job I probably won't have a much work as I would like. It has been very nice getting a cheque every two weeks. I haven't known that luxury since I left my job at the alberta college of art & design over 3 years ago.

One of the hardest things I have ever tried to do in my life is start my own business. I've made alot (and I mean alot!) of mistakes but I've learned a great deal over the past three years and one thing I know for sure, is that I'm not giving up. I've given up a great deal to try and make this work but these are small sacrifices for the short term that I know I will get back in spades someday soon.

And so, I'm hoping that over the next year things will indeed change for the better, and I'm planning to share all that I learn along the way. The first order of business is to start photographing my work on a regular basis. It's ridiculous that I don't do that. It's the first thing they tell you at Art School....you've got to document your work! Without images you can't apply for anything, and you certainly cannot promote your work if you don't have photographs of it!! Duh! My new best friend is my camera. That, and a list of long and short term goals, but I'll save those for my next post!:)

And finally today, for those of you who do not know me personally, you should know I love animals. I own three cats (Isabelle, Victoria and Coalie), and I live with a wonderful dog name Blackie, and one gerbil and one hamster. Everyday I take Blackie for a walk and mostly we like to wonder around in the woods not too from where we live. I spotted four birds nest today which must be some kind of record! When I spot a nest it's like discovering a secret. Take care.

Very little time.

2007-10-23T10:09:00.000-04:00

I went to Paris about five years ago and lately I've been really wanting to go back. I still haven't had a chance to photograph any of the work I've been doing lately, so I'm hoping this beautiful Website that I discovered lepetiteatelierdeparis will do for now (instead of showing some of my own work!) I found the site on poppytalk which is one of my favorite blogs to visit. Since starting my own blog, I've discovered so many more and I'm absolutely mesmerized by the beautiful work being done by Artists, Craftspeople and Designers and I'm so glad that they have blogs too! enjoy the day.

Felt balls and Fall.

2007-10-13T17:46:00.000-04:00

Last year I started making felt balls to sell. I made them in order to be able to offer something that wasn't as expensive as my scarves and shawls. I sold them as Pin Cushions, (complete with pins). I wanted them to reference my scarves so that's why I wrap them with the yarns I use on my scarves. I started making them again last week and took them along on my walk today. I love Fall. I love how the leaves seem to be floating in mid-air waiting for one gust of wind to take them to the ground. I'm making work these days for the upcoming Christmas Shows. Soon I hope to show some of that work but I'm still struggling with photography.

Where does the time go?

2007-10-04T09:31:00.000-04:00

I took this picture almost a year ago. Time really does go by in the blink of an eye, doesn't it? This is Merino wool, felted on Silk Pongee. I lay on Silk and Wool yarns, and everything becomes 'one' in the felting process. The perfect color red can be my nemesis at times. It's probably because I don't keep meticulous dye notes. I find so many things change from day to day, that I just use my notes as a point of reference. I love all the colors I dye but every now and then Iproduce what I consider the 'perfect' red (or pink...or indigo blue...).

Tools and Materials.

2007-09-11T17:35:00.000-04:00

I'm still trying to figure out how to properly post things and where exactly, they will show up on my Blog. The wooden circles are what I use to resist the dye when I'm creating my 'Circles' Collection. (See the Shawl on the left.) I hand dye all my materials and I work mostly with wool and silk.

2007-09-02T17:29:00.000-04:00

This is wool and silk felted together. Merino fleece and silk chiffon to be exact. I make 'soft felts' and cut the shapes out, then stitch them on before the felting process. Felting is a magical process and considered to be the first fabric of civilization.

More Photos

2007-09-02T17:12:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to figure out how to photograph my work which is not easy. Textiles are hard to photograph, particularily when I'm trying to show the drape of the fabric and the smaller details of my work. (It's all in the details, baby.) I'm using a very inexpensive digital camera. I am also taking all my photographs outside and I'm using a tripod.