Mitchell Hedges Crystal Skull

Last night I attended a function at the Boynton Beach Women's Club where they hosted the Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull.If you aren't familiar with the skull it is a clear quartz crystal sculpture the size and shape of a human skull estimated to be as much as 120 centuries old. Known as the Mitchell-Hedges Skull, after the name of its discoverer, it is an object of fantastic sculptural perfection. No other quartz crystal sculpture approaches its quality; even the British Museum’s crystal skull, discovered in Mexico in 1889, is classed as a “rough cut” in comparison.(I got to see the British Museum skull last summer.) This skull was so clear and I was amazed to see the jaw is hinged.

Jody did the sound for the event so I got to slip onto stage and get a picture with the skull. I was sort of afraid to get too close. Can you imagine bumping the table and knocking it over? I could, which is why I am so far away from the table.

The highlight of the night had to be when the man who owns the skull arrived. I was checking people in at the door and he gave me his name, and it wasn't on the list. He said "they called me and asked me to come". I said they called you and your name isn't on the list? Then I noticed he was carrying a big silver box with a huge padlock. Oops! Yes, sir right this way!

You can see my friend Margaret in the background of this picture. She is the owner of the Crystal Garden and a lovely person (she hosted the event). Big thanks to Margaret.

New Platter and Centerpiece

Here is a new sculpture titled Serving up Memories. It is made of ceramic and an antique rollerskate. The work was made specifically for the platter show at PBCC.(where I teach)

There are 4 platters and a centerpiece.
The platters are decorated to look like pavement, complete with hopscotch and zebra stripes. It speaks of childhood days spent playing outside until you were called to dinner.

I have to build a few demo pieces for a workshop I will be giving at the Ceramic League of the Palm Beaches at the Craft Gallery. Watch for those images soon!

2009 is Gonna Be Fine!

Hopefully 2009 will bring better times for everyone. Although 2008 had a few low points you have to admit it had a lot of high points, and that is what's important. Focus on the good and be grateful for what you have.

And on this New Years Day I would like to send a little wish to everyone:

May you laugh so hard you pee your pants, smile so much your cheeks hurt, and may your life be so much fun you can't believe it's your own. (that's how I feel)

Happy New Year!

New Paintings

With the new year comes a new concept. I have started creating a series of paintings based on my sculpture. The image which accompanies this post is titled Kind. It is acrylic on canvas and measures 16"x20".

For the past two days I have gone painting mad! From sun up to sundown... nothing but painting. I bought 5 canvases two days ago and now I need more. A good complaint!

A goal for the new year is to submit work for solo exhibitions. It makes sense to work on a body of 2D and 3D work. I hope you like them.

New Sculpture - What Should I Name Them?

I have started making a new variation of my little bird people.

I have been wracking my brain trying to come up with a name for the new work. They are human and they are bird and they need a name. If you think of a cute name for the creatures, please let me know, and if I like the name I will reward you with a FREE sculpture.

Please excuse my work table, I know it is a mess. As you can see in the photo I have been very busy sculpting and glazing. The new pieces in the photo are not fired, that is why their color is so pale. A kiln is about to be loaded, so fire up your imagination and help me name my creatures.

Creating a New Smaller Line of Figures

I have heard so many of my students and fellow artists say that this is a horrible economy for artists. Rubbish I say!

This is a great time to vary your product line. Have your high end pieces for upscale clientele, but also create a more affordable line for the everyday art collector. I have created a line of small pieces with a smaller price tag just in time for season. Smaller pieces also fit into suitcases, and the Florida economy is based on tourism. (Remember to consider your target audience).

Who doesn't love actually being able buy a piece of art without going bankrupt. Think smaller and make big sales. Like the old saying goes: when you are given lemons, make lemonade.

Ceramics Monthly Article

More good news. First, if you visit the Florida Craftsmen Gallery website you will see I am currently the featured artist. It seems as the gallery was unpacking my newest shipment of work, the piece which accompanies this entry Palms Read sold. She didn't even make it to the shelf!

I have also had three people say "congratulations on the write up in Ceramics Monthly Magazine". I have yet to get my hands on a copy, but Barnes & Nobles assures me they are receiving the October issue this week and I can't wait to see it.

As a result of the article, I have been asked to participate in a few shows. I truly believe when you follow your dreams, (such as making art and teaching again for me) the universe brings to you all you desire.