Tag Archives: empowerment

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Updates and Such

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Hello Lovers of Lovlies and Learning!

I do realize that it seems to take forever between Blog Posts. On average, I am teaching twice a week and have pretties to make, my stores to tend to and other business affairs to handle and as we know… I am a one woman show.  I love you all, I promise :)

I did update my calendar this morning with new dates . . . check it!

Newsletter notes:  I took last week off.  I didn’t mean to take the entire week off from all things Magyk . . . but then there were tax *things* . . . and I’ll just say that I am glad that it’s over for the time being.

Question of the week: ”Since PMC is torch fired (generally) can bottleglass be used as a gem stone? Specifically, sea tumbled beachglass of which I have buckets. I know that its melting point is fairly low if the piece is of an older vintage that’s why you could throw an old Coke bottle in a fire ring at the beach and end up with a slumpy blob.  Anyway, I have some small gem sized bits that have been tumbled so much they look like gems themselves- spectacular. – Jen F.

Answer: Dear Jen (and others thinking about this idea), Please do not torch fire glass. You are right when you indicate that glass has a low melting point, and more importantly a low heat tolerance and fracture point. It can sit in a bonfire and melt because it is contained in the heat. Glass generally shatters when hit with high heat and exposed to cooler temps, which is what occurs when doing any torch firing. That’s called ‘thermal shock’. Anytime we metal clay artists use glass/ceramic in our work, it is recommended that we kiln fire. So – check out a bead store or glass store in your area and see if they have a kiln and will fire your work for you. If you don’t have luck with that, bring your work to me and I will kiln fire it for you. Be aware that in my recent test firing of beach glass, it changed color . . . from a lovely sea foam green to yellow. I will be test firing again, to see if a lower temp might prevent this, however, I fired at 1170, which is lower than traditional firing.  I will keep you all posted and if you want me to kiln fire for you, know that there are never guarantees.

Have a question about metal clay/firing/gems/making things?  E-Ask me and it will go in next weeks newsletter.  If I don’t know the answer, I will also find it and provide the resource where I got it. Thank you Jen for being the first to jump in! You may also submit a joke :)

Metal Clay Learnin’

Sunday, April 28 - AT CRAFTED – 3p to 6pm •  The mini-intro class is $70 and includes 3 hours of instruction and play time, 18 grams of clay, assorted clay supplies, a gemstone, a take-home sheet and loaner tools. You will walk away with a finished piece, your left-over clay and resources to purchase more supplies. I also offer ‘lifetime’ tutoring and a money-back guarantee. Follow my directives and if you hate your experience when it is over, I am happy to give you, your class fee back.  You can even keep your left-over clay.

Registration closes Sunday – April 21 at 6pm.  Use the link below to make payment and you are registered! I will confirm for all registrants as I receive notice from PayPal:

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=4LXHS67CYMT56

What people have said about classes:

“This was sooooo much fun!” -Rain C.

“I can’t believe I created a piece of jewelry!” – Xaver P.

“OH MY GOODNESS! Look what I did!” -Deb F.

“This was really fun and I look forward to more classes!” -Esther Y.

“Delia has a great personality that makes learning fun.” -Iris S.

“I felt like I was taught by a real expert.” – Dawn S.

Coming Up in other locations:

• Mark The Date  PMC Certification – Level 1 - June 8 & 9 in Long Beach.  In two days we create 4 pieces covering many skills.  More in-depth forming, stone setting, ring making, bead making, carving, syringe work and more.  After you complete all the projects, you’ll be tired, excited and Certified as an Artisan.  This makes you a big deal and able to qualify at many metal clay suppliers for a discount on materials :) It is not for the faint of heart and it is expensive, however, since I have done all three Level Certifications, I can say it was worth every penny. Go here to see sample projects, a full class description and to register: http://bit.ly/YSxcbT

• In May, I’ll be teaching a four week Introduction-Intermediate Metal Clay Class at Glendale College – there are 8 spots open. We will cover A LOT in 4 weeks.  Go here: http://bit.ly/14OcNtL

Joke:  “What was T-Rex’s favorite number?”

“ATE!”

Be well . . . 

crane

It’s Been A Roller Coaster Ride!

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******CAUTION: vulnerability here ******

Top Five DON’TS
. . . when someone reaches out for financial help.

5) Ignore them altogether.  It’s OK to say  “I cannot contribute, AND I am pulling for ya.” The person reaching out could probably use those words of encouragement.

4) Judge them harshly. For whatever the reason, the person is in a situation where they need financial support.  It’s OK to ask for more information to inform your decision – don’t assume you really know the whole story and I suggest you ask privately.

3) Share your judgment . . . ever . . . privately or publicly with the person making the request. These requests are not up for public debate and conversation of the social implications.  It’s OK to ignore them if you are judging them harshly – keep it to yourself.  You have NO idea how difficult it may have been for the person to ask for such support.

2) Rebuff the gift. If someone has offered a gift in exchange for your contribution, please consider accepting it. It is the path of their integrity. It’s also OK to allow them more time to create and deliver the gift :)

1) Any of the above . . . can create . . . a sorta cloud o’ ick  floating around in the ‘verse.

Yup, I started with a bunch of don’ts.  Just sayin’ . . . it’s another perspective. I blame no one for my responses, btw. Anyone that knows me, knows that I understand that how I think, affects how I feel :) The negativity was pretty self-inflicted.

The “Don’ts” are as much for me, as they are for anyone that they might resonate for. It is about how I want to create my future relationships.

In the last few weeks, I have experienced a WIDE range of emotions. From shame and isolation and all things in between that, to EXTREME gratitude and a warm-blanky-feeling of love from those that have understood this effort and made a contribution. What a roller coaster ride. I feel a little rough around the edges right now.

Contributions have also come in other forms . . . moral support; sharing the campaign; a purchase from my Etsy store; fixes to my website; reviews of what I am about to post; a word of good cheer; cards; flowers; hugs . . . every little bit has been heartwarming to say the least.

This was a difficult request to make – of people I know, as well as people who are ‘strangers’ – and community, as I see it, and how this panned out, is a WHOLE ‘nother blog post :)

It took two weeks for me to actually make the request. It took another week for me to feel brave enough to share anything about it to my email list.

Money is energy.  Money is a means of exchange.  It is how I keep the lights on, gas in my car, eat food, feed the girlie, pay bills, feed my animals . . . stay in business with new product and materials for teaching AND keep my daughter in a school she has been in for 11 years.

I have ultimately worked something out – I am determined and creative like that.  Devyn will stay in her school, five people will get fairies and a bunch o’ people will get cranes and poppies, (no one wanted a Magyk charm – watz up with that?).

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU . . . for all that you gave, all that I learned from this and mostly for the wealth of closer relationships we have created because I was willing to stand before you in the ‘emperor’s new clothes’ and you greeted me and put a blanket around me.

Thank you for contributing, giving me time on gifts, sharing the postings and demonstrating your love for me and my girl and extraordinary compassion for the circumstance I have created.

Enjoy the cranes and the poppies . Know that these are pieces of meaning . . . adornment of value.  Devyn and I are both proud that you own one – or will own one :)

For those that ignored/judged/were soooooo uncomfortable by the request . . . be well and be happy.  Know that it is likely that I have been where you are and if you ever made such a request and I did not respond, I am truly sorry.  I now know how it feels. I am sorry, that you were made to feel uncomfortable.  It was not my intent.

Energy exchanged is valuable to everyone . . . left unattended it just creates more chaos/white noise in the ‘verse.

Thank you  – again, and again, and again . . . to everyone.

Much love and light,
Delia

Devyn's Fairy

For All the Love . . . That is Devyn

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My daughter attends a private school . . . a very good one and one that in the train of private schools is moderately priced for what it offers.  She has been in the same school since pre-kindergarten and she is currently in the 10th grade. That circumstance is at risk due to my financial circumstances.

It’s been said many times and statements similar have gone viral: ‘when you buy from a small business [artist] you are helping to pay for dance lessons [tuition].

Many blessings! And thank you for your support.

My son attended the same school, from 1st grade through 12th grade. He went on to attend UC Berkeley and graduated two years ago with a degree in Technical Theatre and Spanish.

By the time my daughter graduates, we will have been a part of this community for 20 years.

This educational environment is very much a part of who my daughter has become   . . . is becoming. It is her social environment as well – with many friends she has had since kindergarten and first grade. Continuing at the same school will increase her chances at college.  Having to leave the school, would be – I dare say – devastating for her.

Many moons ago, I found a fairy stamp hanging around my shop. I modified it to make me happy and more of my own and used it on the side of the Tree Goddess box (see below). You can’t see it in the picture, but she holds up the goddess, as fairies are prone to do from time to time. Having decided to not use her again, the mold I made of her face was tucked away.  She is very unique.

I unearthed her recently and have modified her once again. Her beautiful face reminds me of the tenderness and innocence I see in my daughter . . . in all children really. She represents to me, the hope that possibility brings. She represents the strength of growth and learning. It is fitting that I have revived her  . . . brought her to life . . . modified to represent all the things I hold dear.  Living passionately with purpose; learning and growing every day; the bright future I see for my children and especially the tuition I need to raise for my daughter to continue in her current education track . . . oh and maybe a new pair of shoes J.

I am an artist and a metal clay arts instructor. This is what I do for a living.

Today, I offer up this beautiful piece with the intention that I can put some stress over this bill, to rest. Will you support me?

“Devyn’s Fairy”

Fine silver Fairy holding a poppy with a golden stone in the center; embellished with additional nature elements – she has a bit o’ blue in her hair, just like my daughter.  On the back, the Kanji that represents “Love” and of course my signature.

This is a limited edition piece. I will only make 5.  All contributors to my effort will be entered into a drawing.  At the end of this campaign, Devyn will draw the five names of the lucky winners.

For those donating $25 or more, as material THANK YOU, you will have the option to receive either a “Magyk” charm piece, the poppy from the bigger piece or a fine silver Origami Crane, created by Devyn. For those contributing less than $25, you are still entered into the drawing and will be acknowledged in a future blog post, if you are not anonymous :)

A little background . . .

In 2007 when I started on the journey of metal clay MAGYK, I had no idea where it would take me. In 2008 when I decided to do my first show, I was just full of nerves and possibility.  That first show was an epic fail on many fronts or a tremendous learning experience :) . I’ve been adjusting my path ever since . . . adapting, modifying, growing, learning.

Last year in 2012 I was able to increase my teaching opportunities and I took the biggest risk of my little business life.  I opened a micro-store in San Pedro, CA. at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles.  As with all new business adventures, since my journey with Crafted, my expenses continue to outrun my income.

The ‘why’ of my business – to bring an energetic compliment to your journey through the adornment I create. Sales of my work allow me to pay bills, allow for extras and be independent of my former spouse. I am also, at least one live demonstration to my children that passion and a willingness to take action leads to spectacular things . . . and really it has in many ways.

I’m just gonna say, while I fly by the seat of my pants more often than I like, and I recognize I have a lot to learn . . . I’m still at it, knowing there is a reason I am spose to do what I do.  Once in a while a Lover of Lovelies comes along to remind me.  Once in a while an artist takes a class and I reminded . . . yes, this is what I am supposed to be doing.

May you enjoy this offering of Devyn’s Fairy.  May it be a reminder to you of possibility, joy, growth, learning and renewal as we head into spring. I’d be honored if you’d own one.

Devyn’s Fairy – back view (pardon the shadow)
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Just the poppy with a golden stone in the center. (lab. sapphire)
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Devyn’s Fairy with patina (per Devyn’s request)
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Origami Crane …created by Devyn
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Poppy with patina

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Oh GOODNESS

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It’s been a while . . . again! If you are following my blog and you REALLY wanna know what I am up to, I encourage you to “Like” my Facebook page ‘Phoenix Magyk’. You’ll see a link to the right. I update teaching happenings and store happenings, regularly.

I will say there is a post in the works . . . introducing you to a new piece :)

All my best,
Delia

freeparking

Awesomesauceness At The Crafted ‘House’

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• FREE PARKING!  ALL THREE DAYS! that’s a real squeeeeable moment in my book.

• San Pedro’s Taste of the Holidays – this Sunday, November 18 from 6 – 8:30 p.m.
The Chamber of Commerce is hosting their Taste of the Holidays at CRAFTED!  We will be open late until 8-8:30ish.  There will be limited tickets available at the door, and you could always give it a shot. :) Tickets are $40 for non-members… tell ‘em I sent ya *wink* Go HERE: San Pedro Chamber site to get tickets in advance.  I feel certain the Chamber won’t mind and if these extended hours are good for you, come!  Support the Chamber, Crafted and have good food and vino and shop on a Friday evening.

• Small Business Saturday – NOVEMBER 24 – ALL DAY
www.craftedportla.com/sbs
Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is Small Business Saturday, a day for eco- and socially-conscious holiday shopping in support of the small, local businesses like us, that are the engines of the nation’s economy.  We represent more than 100 local, independent artisans under one roof, with the perfect gifts for absolutely anyone! The Phoenix Magyk store will be *closed* on Friday 11/23.  Clay Magyk will be open and managed by Laura Moore of Billy’s A Bad Kitty, one of the great artists that shares her work.  I will be there Saturday and Sunday 11/24

There are more great things coming!  Stay Tuned.

freeparkingfreeparkingfreeparkingfreeparking!

 

L1PsnlCertSmall

Level 1 Certification

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This year I jumped through the additional action ‘hoops’ to become a Certification Instructor with PMC Connection (PMCC).

I had previously ‘clayed’ my way through Level I, II, & III certification with Senior Instructor, Lora Hart. I learned so much.  My design skills improved, as well as my ability to implement my often far reaching musings. It was with Lora’s encouragement that I took the plunge to teach certification classes myself.  I cannot thank her enough! I will forever be grateful!

I have scheduled my first class in Level I . . . this December 15 & 16.  The class will take place at my home studio in Altadena.  If you’d like to play, call PMCC for registration: 888-762-2529.

PMCC Level 1 certification is a two-day class designed for the student ready to step beyond the basics.
Each of the four projects in this class combines two or more metal clay construction techniques and challenges the student to create jewelry that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

See the projects.

Students explore and demonstrate mastery of basic hollow forms; carving green ware; ring sizing and construction, setting faceted stones, controlled syringe drawing, and forming sheet clay, as well as incorporating functional elements such as bails and embedded wire.

Projects are evaluated according to the care taken with design, joining, finishing, attention to detail, and the student’s understanding of the material covered in discussions. Completion of the class prepares the student for PMCC Certification Levels Two and Three and entities the student to a Certified Artisan discounts honored by most metal clay suppliers.  This 2 day event is $399 plus a $50 materials/studio fee.  You’ll get everything you need to be successful with all four projects!

Weather you want to just improve your skills or teach classes yourself – I cann0t tell you how valuable Certification classes can be.  Do it!  Sign-up today!  You won’t regret it, I promise. Call 1-888-762-2529

Here is all the BRAG :)

top10

Top 10 of Things

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I am a Dave Letterman fan.  I don’t generally go to bed until I’ve seen the top ten for the evening :)   So inspired I was by the segment, one day I sat down and created a Top Ten Reasons to take a Metal Clay Arts Class:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So you can probably guess?  I’ve come up with a new one for your consideration:

Top 10 Reasons to Buy Handcrafted Goodness

10) You love handmade goods.

9) Your item is unique and not mass-manufactured.

8) You were able to have a relaxed buying experience.

7) Handmade everything can be customized to you – ask your artist!

6) Your purchase is cooler than anything you’ve seen in a “big box” store

5) Your gift to yourself or someone else will last much longer!

4) Your purchase allowed the artist to buy something *they* needed.

3) You can tell you friends/loved ones that the item you bought was handcrafted.

2) Your purchase is “go green” with little or no waste on the part of the artist.

1) You made a new friend in the artist you purchased from.  They know more about what you like and need and you can order from them FOREVER!

This is still a ‘work in progress’.  Your feedback would be appreciated :)

My shop and home are full of handcrafted beauty that I use everyday.  My tools are stowed in artisan created pottery.  I buy T-shirts for myself and my daughter that are crafted by artisans I know. I have an extensive collection of jewelry and pins that are made by artists.

My top reason for buying handmade is knowing the difference it makes in the life of the artist I have purchased from AND I own beautiful art!  I relate to the idea of this being one’s ‘chosen career’ and what sort of challenges we face.

So as we head into holiday shopping “season” – give a pause – consider the advantages of buying handmade. Consider the experience of shopping in a space like Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles or a local arts fair versus a mall *gasp*. I’d appreciate it if you bought handmade and I know ALL the other artists in the world would appreciate it too!

Be well!

Go make something!

Go find something handcrafted!

Alejandro The Mouse - riding in his automobile

The Adventures of This Mad-Artist

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Not angry, – “mad” as in slightly nuts.  However in my own defense, I would say that my eccentricity makes me all the more a better artist – LOL – right?

My car suffered a near fatal fail last week on the way home from my Crafted stores . . . Friday night . . . on the freeway! To say the least it was anxiety producing.

The adventure was really kinda funny – at first.  I had a passenger, which made it a lot less stressful.  I was in contact with my mechanic, which made it a lot less stressful.

After stopping in various parts of LA about 8 times, to allow the car to calm itself and try again for the journey home – when I reached a safe place to land – I cried.

I didn’t cry because I felt helpless, or scared that I was going to get us both killed OR that my car was broken and in the mad rush of my mind, I was thinking “how am I gonna pay for THIS?!”  No, I cried because the highway patrol officer scared the hell out of me when he yelled at me through his speaker – for the WHOLE WORLD TO HEAR.

On the last leg of the journey to get the car off the freeway, I was on the phone with the mechanic, and trying to get a hold of a tow-truck driver.  Out of no where, there is a bright light shinning in the car. I realize there is a helicopter overhead and clearly it’s a police one.  The mechanic says, “What’s that?” I say, “A helicopter”, he says “Get off the freeway!”.

So I start the car, have my friend make the call to our ride, that we are getting off the freeway, and in my rear view, I see the lights.  At this point, I realize something BAD must be happening. At a medium rate of speed, there is a HP cruiser weaving about the freeway lanes…ya know, like a traffic break.  I am on the shoulder, doing about 20mph, JUST trying to get to the next exit.  He stops, I keep plugging along, he YELLS “STOP”!  I stop.  He pronounces that I must stay 300 ft. behind the flashing lights, so I start to back up.  He YELLS again “STOP!” and THEN he says “Think about the other people, IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT YOU!”

At this point, I am feeling well beyond anxious and I’ve already had a convo with the ‘verse about “what are you telling me? Oh I know, get the car looked at sooner rather than later.”

He moves on, I wait and then plug along to the next off ramp. Of course civilization was to the left, not the right.

We make it to a gas station.  I think I just parked in the middle of a gas lane.  Our ride arrives – my estranged husband – I open the car door and out I pour in a flood of tears.  “What did he meeeeeeean, ‘It’s not all about you’.  I am thinking of other people, I’m thinking of the passenger I’ve been entrusted with and getting her home (the daughter of a dear friend), and I’m thinking about MY daughter who is home alone, waiting for me and hungry . . . I’m already racing with ‘how will I get her to school’ . . . I’m thinking about the customer I am spose to meet with on Saturday and how inconvenient it will be if she comes in and I am not there and ‘OH goodness, where is her number?’

My friend got home, my daughter got food.  At 10:45 I had no ride for the next morning. At 11:00, I had two rides. By Saturday afternoon I’d managed rides, to and from Skirball for my class on Sunday.

By Monday afternoon, I managed to get to the grocery store, the bank, and get my daughter to and from school all three days.  Monday was a school holiday – thank Zeus!

I have since decided that the YELL on the part of the highway patrol mean-man – was kinda cool.

So why share all this? To say out loud, how incredibly grateful I am for the folk I have in my life.

Many thanks to Suzanne Colucci – getting me to and from Crafted on Saturday; Adrienne Spellman – offering to come from Perris to get me to Crafted; Kristen Gluckman – being a ride ‘broker’ and loading me up to get me home from Skirball (from Santa Monica), Robin Foley – getting me TO Skirball, helping me unload and getting me coffee and breakfast; Pam Raymer-Lea – getting me to the bank, grocery store and post office; Blake Traister – coming to pick Emily and I up and giving me a hug, even though; Les Bohem, Mandy Boesche, Wendi Mittleman – getting Devon to and from school.  Special thanks to Dr. “Hercules” Steve – fixing the Pegasus Two; and Emily Hannah for being the bravest and most patient passenger EVER!  I love you all very much!  Thank you for your generosity and going above and beyond for a friend!

What does any of this have to do with teaching or things I make – A BUNCH!

It’s challenge enough to consider how I will accomplish some tasks in my life without a car.  Holy cow, I have walked out the door three times to go buy polishing pads… and DOH!  Not having a car messes with my rituals a great deal.  Add to that, reaching out, asking for help and needing to rely on others for their support – SUPER SCARY. Yet without that support, I would not have been able to be present for a customer on Saturday or teach on Sunday and Zeus knows, a week home with the girlie would have been unpleasant :) .

And more good news – I have been so diligent about remaining centered in the face of all events – there hasn’t been quite the buuuuzzzzzz of anxiety across my shoulders – as there used to be :) .

Not driving Devon to and from school has given me a whole extra hour in my day – although I miss it a little.

I’ve saved money on gas!

I’ve had the opportunity to really talk with friends that I don’t get to, in the hubbub of day to day!

I’ve had time to do more work this week and you just know  it is infused with the energy of gratitude and awareness.

A year ago, I might have declared this to be the ‘worse week EVER’. Today, I would declare this week, a SPLENDID one! It’s all good at the Phoenix Magyk desk.

Now – take a moment to think about what is good in your world, and GO MAKE SOMETHING! And if you haven’t seen these new rings, come see ‘em at Crafted this weekend! The first image is Alejandro the Mouse, here is his story:

The other image is of Reversal of Fortune.  Having grown weary of the chase, Max the Mouse created this clever cage for Caldwell the Cat. Max is quite clever and strong considering his small stature.

There are also new vessels that I finished last week and two more on the bench to be fired this afternoon.  As things are working out, the car will be ready in time for me to get to Otis.  We’re playing with hollow forms and glass tonight!

Much love and peace,

Delia

 

LifeF

OH HAI!

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I know, I know!  It’s been a bit of time since I made a “real” blog post.

Honestly, I’d like to have the habit of a weekly blog post fully in place. However, we can see, that I am sometimes time-challenged.  I do update Facebook daily, so if you want to track what’s happening “Like” my Facebook page.  For every 10 “Likes” I am giving away a “Magyk” charm.

So I split the post up, so you can decide which interests you more!

ALL ABOUT TEACHING  *click here*

ALL ABOUT THE STORES *click here*

 

teaching

All About Teaching!

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I am a metal clay arts instructor.

What is metal clay?  In brief, it is fine metal particles, combined with an organic clay binder.  This material can be handled like modeling clay and you can create anything you want. After it is dry, you fire it in a kiln or with a torch, and VOILA! A creation of your desire.

I am a Level 3 Certified Artisan through PMC Connection and a Level 1 Certification Instructor. I’ve been teaching since 2008 and I love that part of my life.

The summer is over (although it remains hot).  My experiences at teaching venues, was as varied as the artists I had the privilege to teach.  I learned a great deal and had a great time.

My fall teaching schedule is in full swing until mid-December.  I am teaching week 4 at Otis College tomorrow night. I had a cancellation at Glendale for a 2 week advanced series.  “Secret Spaces” at Glendale is still open.

What is “Secret Spaces”?

Secret Spaces

Vessels hold, contain and protect treasures of all sorts.  In this three-part class you will learn how to use a unique armature for creating a container with a lift lid. Students will need to bring a votive candle.

We will talk about hinges and other kinds of vessels.

Go HERE to register.

I still have classes coming up.  Check out my calendar for the dates and locations.

At Crafted, if you don’t know, I have a mini-class almost every Sunday.  November classes will focus on holiday gift giving projects :) .  I am also excited for the possibility of a bigger class space.  While the demonstration are up by the front doors is more spacious, it is filled with people and my sense has been that it would be too ‘busy’.  The Crafted team has indicated that a classroom space is on the slate for Phase 2.

Here are some pictures of happy Artists that took a class at Crafted.

 

Jasmine

 

Shannon and Sue

 

 

 

 

Xavier