I am starting my day with my new favorite coffee cup by Julie Wiggins, a friend and fellow potter from Charlotte, N.C. This photo is especially apropos because it includes two pieces of my own work I made while living in Charlotte where I first met Julie and many other wonderful clay artists. I didn't plan it that way, but noticed it after I took the picture!
I was out and about this week at several art-inspired events. Not only did I end up with a bounty of creative endeavors and a chance to catch up with artist friends I haven't seen recently, I also gained some new art friendships along the way.
I had a fun evening catching up with Andrea, seeing her detailed and inspiring paintings, photographs and collage work. It's a beautiful show and worth a trip to DC!
The Frederick Festival of the Arts benefited from spectacular weather this weekend! This festive crab by Alex Benitez from Baltimore, Md. caught my eye and will find a perfect spot somewhere on a wall at home.
If I see a piece of art that inspires me, I never wonder where will I put it? Does it match what else I have? I purchase art because it makes me happy and always seem to have room to fit it in to my 'collection.'
Sunday I traveled to Virginia to reconnect with Julie and her pottery during a home show hosted by her brother and sister-in-law. It's been a couple of years since we've seen each other. We were studio-mates at a clay studio in Charlotte in the 2004 -2005 time frame. It was fun to catch up and talk clay. Julie's newest work shows off her steady artistic hand with dabs of soft color.
Each time I use this bowl, it connects me back to my friendship with Julie!
Not all art has to fit on the wall. Karin Birch makes all kinds of wonderful fiber art -- some of which I can carry on my body! The Muse featured her work during First Saturday this weekend. After I completed my clay demo there Saturday evening, I couldn't resist a purchase of my own.
Buying art I love gives me just about as much pleasure as making it. It connects me to the artists, reminds me of a special day or event and helps a fellow crafter continue to do what they love.