Sunday, July 20, 2008

Say Hello To My Little Friend...

Oops, that phrase usually conjures up images of violence, but not this time. My hubby took this sweet picture. This little critter has been hanging around our house all spring and summer. This is the first rabbit we have seen in our yard in the six years we have been here. My sister says it is because we no longer have predators in our yard. This certainly may be true, as I have seen more birds this year also.


Speaking of birds, the chicks were out yesterday having fun doing polymer clay transfers. We had a blast doing them and as you can see here, this is an art that knows no age, we are quite a diverse group.


Here is a shot of the youngest of our group showing her transfer. I think her name is Mackenzie, but I'm so bad with names. I'm sorry if I have gotten it wrong.

I also did a demo on precious metal clay. I sometimes tend to get a little anxious when I have to address a group, but these gals are my friends and I didn't get that nervous. I don't like to make mistakes, but I flubbed up a little bit and felt my face turning red. I just laughed about it and continued. They all made be feel so comfortable. The thing that surprised me the most was, them taking notes. I really wasn't expecting that. They asked questions and I usually knew the answers. When I didn't, I just said so. No sweat. One thing that was quietly mentioned, was that I made them feel like they could do this. It's important to know that we, regular chickie-doodles, can pick up a butane torch and safely fire a piece of jewelry. When I fired up that bad boy, they gathered around, and I just said, don't be afraid to try this, it's really not hard to do, it just sounds scary.

After the metal clay demo we worked on making our polymer clay pieces and I think everyone had time to make and bake at least two items. I like it when you can take something home with you. Here is another one of the finished pieces. This is the one Mackenzie's mom made and it really turned out nicely.


Well, that's all for now. I think there is an artist in all of us. We are all creative, even if we don't realize it. It's not just making a necklace or painting a picture, or sewing an apron. Even when you decide what to wear in the morning, you are an artist - a fashion designer. When you choose your food from the grocery store, you are an artist - a chef... the list goes on and on. I think we are all too hard on ourselves and we need to know that art doesn't need to be perfect. What is perfect anyway?

Just remember to try to be true to yourself and to love, and to try to make a place in your busy day for art.

Ta, Ta for now. Talk soon.

6 comments:

FAQ said...

Oh, these clay pieces are cool. I have never tried a clay transfer but always think about it. I'm going to be trying to work with paper clay soon to make a little bird. HOpe you are doing well.

Anonymous said...

I'm glad your class/demo went well! It sounds like everyone had fun. I've never tried the clay transfer, either. I have the materials... just need to get the guts. (*giggles*)

We have a bunny that lives in our yard, too, but I think he has been there for a while as we've seen him since we moved in 3 years ago. He's a BIG bunny, too. His head is nearly the size of a grapefruit and he is not as timid as most bunnies. I can usually get within 3 feet of him before he slowly hops away, gives me a look over his shoulder, and then leaves.

We've named him Barnum A. Wabbitson.

Suzie said...

Congrats on your class. That looks so cool. I would love to take your class you sound like a great teacher

Amy Gethins Sullivan said...

Happy your class went well.
I really don't enjoy the mall, too overwhelming.And, I get confused about which direction I need to go in when I come out of a store.So, I guess I am an old codger.My poor kids love the mall and try and get their ol mom to go there. Poor Baby's.
Amy

Anonymous said...

I have never tried this one?

Everwild said...

Bunnies!

I'm sorry I missed Saturday, Susan, but it looks like you had lots of fun.

Happy day!

Diann