Let It Be

If you know me well... or if you've ridden in Missy (my car) you'll know I have 1 cd in the stereo.  It's the entire compilation of the Beatles. Every album they made contained on the disk, and I have played it straight, non stop for the past 4 years. Give or take a month or two. And no, I never get tired of it. We went and saw Let It Be at the Garrick Theatre in London. I screamed like a 12 year old. Well worth the ticket.

View from the Bus

One of the best things about London is its public transport. No need for a car when you have such great bus and tube routes. This image is from the front seat of one of the iconic double decker buses. It's a great vibe with the build up to the Olympics.  Although the torch relay is supposed to be interrupting bus routes. Next weekend the bike races should snarl things as they're closing a lot of roads.

In the meantime, this is Regent Street approaching Picadilly Circus and as you can see it's all decked out with flags which really gives it a celebratory feel. It's nice to see the buntings and flags all around the city. Today on the agenda: buying new pedometers. After almost 10 years and on average 10 miles of walking a day (while in vacation), we have worn ours out. Tonight we'll be heading over to the Venue to hear my wonderful brother in law's magical sounds. (he's a FABULOUS sound engineer and more like a brother). Okay, get ready feet.

Guess Where?

Well, you'll never guess where I went last night. Guess. Of course, you couldn't expect me to be in London and NOT visit my clock? So much inspiration all around. Speaking of inspiration, I made my way to the British Museum yesterday and drooled sufficiently over the Etruscan terracotta figures. (among other things) But not enough the flag security this time. Although I smile so much while wandering around the museum, people must think I am a total gooney bird. Right across the road from the British Museum is a fabulous gallery called Contemporary Ceramics.

If you want me to document anything while I am here for you let me know, send an email. Otherwise, you'll have to tolerate what I post.

Show at SDC Opens May 4th

The kiln has been firing and my hands have been sculpting pretty much non stop for the past few months. I have been working on my body of work to bring over to SDC Gallery in London, England where I will be taking part in the Summer Collection.

SDC is located in the East End of London (24 Rivington Street) and is an absolutely lovely space. The Summer Collection opens on May 4th and ends August 7, 2010. Hopefully those of you on the other side of the pond will come opening night. Address and directions can be found on the galleries direction page.

The sculpture accompanying this entry will be in the show. It is handbuilt ceramics, slips, oxides, underglazes and overglazes. (c. 4" x 3" x 2").

The Leaving of Liverpool

Just back from a trip to Liverpool, England and my mind is swimming with Beatles songs. Nearly every shop you enter is playing The Beatles music. The Albert Dock is where you will find a good portion of Beatles shops such as the Fab Four and the Beatles Story. It is also the location of the Tate Liverpool,(which in my opinion blew the doors off both Tate's in London). We then wandered our way down to the Cavern Quarter and onto Matthew Street. This photo is actually Jody and I in the Cavern Club. Actually, this is two separate images of Jody and I and through the magic of photoshop, we are one.

The White Cliffs

Yesterday we went down to the coast, had dinner with family, and were given a tour of the surrounding white cliffs.

They truly are an amazing sight to see. The bright white chalk contrast strongly against the water, grass and sky. It almost looks as if someone took a big white cake place it on a cobalt blue platter and randomly sliced into it.

Close to the edge the earth is crumbling away from erosion. Those areas actually sink down lower than the rest, almost like an old grave. I kept thinking tread carefully, that would be a new grave if the land gave way. Trust me, it's a long way to the bottom.

End of One Journey- Begin Another

The bags are packed and one part of the journey ends. Today we head to a hotel near the airport in an effort to make tomorrow that bit easier.

This morning I finished reading a book Flash CS3 Professional and will hope to finish reading my second book on animation while on the plane. Which brings me to the next journey: Associate Professor with PBCC. I look forward to the semester and incorporating what I experienced this summer into the classroom. From the British Museum, to the Tate Modern, the hip graphics found in Temple Bar or the experience of painting pop art images it all about enjoying life and learning just a little bit more than you knew yesterday.

Glastonbury Rocks!

These photos were taken at the Glastonbury Tor in southwest England. There are many myths and legends associated with the Tor – some say it is the home of the King of the Fairies and is Avalon: the spot where King Arthur and Guinevere were buried.

The day we visited the Tor was shrouded in a misty fog. At times the peak was hidden by clouds from the windswept plains. It was a breathtaking sight and I understand fully why it is known as a magical mountain.

The view was worth every panting breath.

Crop Circle

Yesterday we drove all around the English countryside. On our travels we spotted a crop circle. It was so funny to see it. I mean how many shows or pictures have you seen of them and to see one just sitting right outside your window.

I didn't go into the center of the circle because it was in a farmers field and I couldn't didn't want to trespass. (I am just that kind of girl). But still it was very cool to see. Hope you like it.

Painting Away at the Venue, New Cross

Another day, another mural. Actually today we painted more than one thing but who's counting (besides me). Todays images are of the Barbarella mural and the column located in the center of the bar. The Barbarella mural features Jane Fonda and the Angel. It is approximately 10 feet high and spans probably 8 feet across.

The colors used in the room are very warm and inviting. I am sure int he dead of winter it will be a favorite of those craving a little more warmth. As I was painting the vibrant Florida colors reminded me of home.

London Was Lovely

We spent the past week in London, England. The weather was absolutely sensational with sunny weather and temps in the low 80's, light sweaters needed at night. Jody and I walked the city from one end to the other. It doesn't get dark until 11 PM so we had plenty of time to plod around time. One day our pedometers recorded 11 miles.

From the Camden Town Market to the British Museum and of course Big Ben we had a really great time.

If you haven't been to London it really is a great city. It is a true melting pot of different cultures, sights and sounds.