Arty Lovely

Bluebird Afternoon

2011-06-15T09:14:00.003+12:00

Bluebird Afternoon is currently on display at the Wai Art Awards Show. Head on over and cast your vote for the peoples choice award! Carterton Exhibition Centre, Holloway Road, Carterton.

Desk Top

2011-04-01T16:56:00.002+13:00

A glimpse of just some of the stuff covering my desk today. Those little blue bird earings have sparked some new creative ideas which I am excited about. More on that soon hopefully!

The first of April arrived in a flash and so this morning I drew a name out of a hat (well, actually a bowl). I'll be sending out a little stash of wall paper samples to Dena of Wilton Art. Yay Dena!

Autumn Light

2011-03-30T14:31:00.002+13:00

The last remnants of summer are fading fast. I'm reluctant to let go, but I do love that beautiful autumn light.

Giveaway for you

2011-03-22T10:06:00.006+13:00

This morning the hum of the city rises on still air and intrudes into my little sanctuary amongst the trees. All is green or grey out there. The trees, the hills; mottled verdantly. The city, harbour and sky; monochromatic through the drab light of dawn. I think its going to rain.

A few days ago I was pondering all the exciting creative projects on the horizon ahead of me when all of a sudden a sense of overwhelm engulfed me. Followed swiftly by Artist Block.

As I struggled against a composition that wouldn't arrange itself pleasingly, I realised there was nothing to do but walk away. Just walk away and do something else. Busy myself with other things until my muse returns. I'm learning this is the best way and I'm learning to have faith that inspiration will return.

Happily, my creative spark is back quickly this time, inspired by two fortuitous finds in second-hand shops - some vintage embroidery patterns and some old patterned wall paper. Gold for a mixed media artist.

Id like to share the creative abundance that I have been blessed with, so this is for you... I'm putting together a little pack of wallpaper samples to giveaway to one of this blogs followers. So if you haven't already, click "Follow" over there on the right column and on the first of April I'll draw the name of someone who will receive a little gift in the mail. Spread the word on your blog, let me know you have in the comments below, and I'll throw your name in twice :)

South

2011-03-17T09:51:00.002+13:00

Sunday, I sailed back into Wellington. The end of my holiday south and also, it seems, the end of summer.
Two weeks, two weddings, two thousand kilometers, two cycle companions, two ferry rides, two plane trips, two lakes, two thousand photos...

First stop; lake Rotoiti where we camped, swam & walked.

Tea in the Library

2011-02-24T09:41:00.002+13:00

From my spot up here on the hill I have been watching the cruise ships come and go from the harbour. They glide in on the calm summer water like reposeful cows strolling to the milking shed, and then not long later they leave again just as serenely. The sky has been blue for days on end and I am soaking in this summer warmth.

My thoughts have been where most every New Zealanders thoughts are directed right now, with the people of Christchurch. I am so grateful all of my family there survived the terrible earthquake.

Tea in the Library is heading off to Artbay Gallery today along with a few other pieces.

Death

2011-02-18T16:38:00.002+13:00

Even in the midst of summer, death is all around. Ive been noticing nature's cycles a lot lately as I work in the garden. The abundance of cicadas are providing a great feast for the birds. I felt sorry for them, those poor defenseless bugs, but then I realised; Id feel sorry for the birds if they couldn't eat. Everything is connected.

I discovered this butterfly a few days ago and carefully carried him home to add to my collection of curiosities.

For those of you who entered my giveaway, thank you! We have a winner and her name is Theresa of Faerie Moon Creations.

Memories and Museums

2011-02-15T17:36:00.008+13:00

Memory... is the diary that we all carry about with us. ~ Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest

I'm so full of inspiration lately since I started delving into some of the topics on my list.

I've just started reading The Museum of the Mind. It's going to spark a whole lot of new creative ideas, I can tell.

I'm reading it with a pencil in hand so I can underline all the parts that resonate with my art making.

Some more interesting things Ive discovered lately...

These bottled butterfly necklaces
The Uncontacted Tribes, this gave me goose bumps.
The art of Madeline von Foerster

Untitled

2011-02-10T11:14:00.004+13:00

Finished! Now I need a cup of tea myself.

Yesterday I spent the day photographing tea cups and today I am beginning preparations for a tea party. Am I addicted to tea, I wonder?

Today's task; honey rice bubble cakes (scroll down for the recipe). I'm not sure these are traditionally served at afternoon teas, but when I was reminded of them by Donna and Christine, well I knew I would have to make them, you know, for old times sake.

One world, one heart, giveaway!

2011-01-31T08:26:00.006+13:00

Imagine a room of ladies, piles of cakes and plenty of tea. Sweet little sandwiches on sweet little plates and tea sipped from delicate china cups. I spent the afternoon recently at such a party, when my talented friend Sarah set about baking and making tea for a few lucky friends.

It was so much fun Ive decided that the One World One Heart event would be the perfect time to host another tea party. So, come on in and make yourself at home. Pull up a chair. Have a cup cake, or perhaps you'd prefer a meringue? Tea? Now, have we met before? I'm Veronica. I'm a dreamer, a gardener, a baker, a sewer, a sometimes bicycle rider, but most of all, in my heart, an Artist. Its what makes my heart sing and what I want to spend more time doing. This little blog of mine is a chronicle of my creative adventures with a bit of other stuff thrown in the mix for good measure. Nice to meet you.

Now, some of you may be wondering, what is OWOH? Well, its a blogging event with the purpose of 'meeting' some fellow bloggers, kindred spirits and like minded souls, fellow artists, writers, photographers... the list goes on. Its a great way of finding some new and inspiring blogs to read, there are so many talented folks out there doing there creative thing and OWOH brings them all together. You can read more about it over on Lisa's blog.

So, thank you for your fine company, so glad you came by. Leave a comment letting me know you dropped in and on the 17th of Feb I will draw the name of one lucky visitor who will receive one of my little Art Block Prints as a 'door prize' Since its a tea party, it seems appropriate to offer you one of my teacup prints. Its a wee 4x4 inch print of one of my original mixed media artworks, mounted on a chunky canvas block. Perfect to sit on a shelf or hang on the wall.

Glimpses of her

2011-01-27T09:09:00.003+13:00

Ive been working on this piece for so long now it seems. She evolves in stages and each time i set my paintbrush down I never know if she is finished or not. Until, hours later, I hear her calling to me again, just a little more paint over there, that part should be darker, or some other bit of useful advice. Her voice is becoming less urgent now, quieter, and I sense she is nearly ready.

Roses

2011-01-26T08:53:00.003+13:00

My first post of the year comes a little late in the season, but thats just the way it is in summer isnt it?

Lately these summery days have been filled with roses. Roses on teacups, roses in books, and now, these lovely, vintage rose prints. Im not sure what I'll do with them yet, but when I found them I knew they had to come home with me.

Collecting Inspiration

2010-12-16T13:19:00.003+13:00

There’s a soft hum entering through the open windows. Down the hill there, nestled at the water’s edge, the city slowly wakes. Its voice rises up on a gentle mist to greet me. I can look down on the city from here and see that today it is all awash with silver and white. Light, not snow. A summer mist. Not a breath of wind. The sunshine, shrouded, waits.

Inspiration. Where does it come from and where does it go?

As I began to ponder this question a few weeks ago my own inspiration slipped away. How curious. Perhaps this is not something that should be questioned? Considering inspiration and ideas has led me down some twisting, endless paths lately. I’ve only just begun to take the first steps on all their diverging trails.

I like to think that, so far, I have the beginning sketch for a map that I will eventually be able to fill in in detail.

A few marker points on my map so far…

Art

Other Artists and their Art

Nature as Artist/Designer/Creative force

Botanical Illustrations

Memory

Memory as history

Objects as memory / mnemonic objects

Inscriptions (on books and other objects)

Peoples personal stories

My stories

The traditions of discovering/recording/sharing knowledge and how it eventually becomes history

Cabinets of curiosities

Collections (public/museums and private)

Methods of display and labelling of collections of objects (compartments, boxes, labels, files -A container for everything)

Books (especially about nature, or novels)

Maps

Botanical Drawings

Letters (inc postcards and other communication)

Archaeology (lost or buried treasure or everyday items)

Myths

Knowledge

My research/learning about particular stories or objects

My research/learning about Memory/ Collections/ History etc

The Caravan Children captured my imagination years and years ago. I read and re-read this copy from my mothers childhood many times. Through out the story one of its characters secretly undertakes to make a 'museum' to record their caravan holiday. I think my love for objects as memory keepers must have begun in the final paragraphs of this book.

"And sometimes aterwards in the dark winter evenings the childern would ask Peter if they could look at his museum; and he would open his box and take out all the things he had collected. Then they would examine everything all over again and talk of the wonderful times they had had. They would look at the cloudy water in the little bottle and remember how deep and fast the water had rushed along the flooded river bed; and they would touch the piece of burned wood and remember how bright were the flames of fire at Melbury Farm. Then they would shut up the box and put it away, and hope very much that when the summer days came again they would be able to harness Dobbin the horse to the green and yellow caravan and drive away once more in search of adventures."

The Source of Ideas and Inspiration

2010-11-17T10:51:00.007+13:00

Lately Ive been thinking about ideas and inspiration. Does inspiration create ideas, or do ideas create inspiration? It seems they are intrinsically linked, each feeding into the other in a perpetual cycle.

I've been wondering - where do my ideas come from? What exactly is my inspiration? How can I best use my ideas and inspiration to expand my creativity?

I think I'll assign myself a little exercise of naming my sources of inspiration and ideas as a way of understanding my creative process better. Once Ive done that I think I will be able to make use of my inspiration more effectively and direct the energy of it into my art with more intention. Thats the goal anyway!

Cutlery for Christmas

2010-11-10T16:36:00.005+13:00

Detail of work in progress.

Ive just about completed three new pieces for the NZ Art Guild Xmas show.

Photoshoot

2010-11-09T16:26:00.004+13:00

The harbour, flat, blue and bright looks like summer today. A few little yachts drift aimlessly out across the water. They're directed only by a little wind and the ocean's whim I think. Their sailors much surely be reading a good book or snoozing on the deck. At least that's what I would be doing if it were me out there.

I photographed my lovely (patient!) sister piled up with books and teacups today. Luckily she has an exceptional sense of balance.

My intention is to produce a small series like this.

Birds

2010-10-29T09:42:00.002+13:00

Weather close and sultry. I discovered a most carefully hidden robins nest today in a marshy spinney in Elmdon Park. I was stooping down to gather some cowslips when a robin fled out over my hand from under the roots of an Alder tree growing close beside me. It was quite a small tree, supported by four strong roots which held it up clear of the ground, forming an archway. In this cavity, right under the centre of the tree was placed the nest which contained five eggs. The crab apple trees and bushes are looking very beautiful now, covered with pink blossom and crimson buds.

Edith Holden, 7th of May 1906.

Ive been reading The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady. I bought it at the book fair simply for its sweet illustrations, but somehow Edith's rambles through the English country side have drawn me in.

One hundred and four years later, some things still remain unchanged. Thankfully. Last weekend I watched a Thrush tending her nest. Her home was not so well hidden, placed in a bush right by the house. She watched our comings and goings with alert bright eyes and all the while tended her young ones, bringing them food and keeping them warm and safe.

The apple tree is in bloom and a Korimako spent some time dining from its blossom.

Still Spring

2010-10-21T10:22:00.003+13:00

The thing with spring is that it lingers. On and on. It promises so much and then it makes you wait.

I am ready for summer. I'm longing for sunshine that carries on day after day. This relentless teasing is testing my patience, it really is. One days sunshine for two days grey.

I am trying to hold yesterday's sunshine in my mind.

Towards the end of the long, long path leading to the house a tree has erupted into bloom. Its laden branches stretch over the walkway. As I leave or return home, I walk gazing upwards through the clouds of pink feathery candyfloss. Beautiful.

Photos inspired by Kerri who cant walk past a tree with out stopping to marvel at its beauty.

Fielder's Sponge

2010-10-07T12:32:00.004+13:00

The Self Help Cookery Book, New and improved edition, (1939) is a treasure trove of recipes and household hints.

The copy I have is fragile, its pages loose, some covered in flour or cocoa. Between its worn pages someone once tucked a recipe, carefully written on a small scrap of paper. I found this little artifact and have given it a new lease of life in my art work.

I haven't tried the recipe, but let me know if you do! Here it is, copied exactly as it was written all those years ago.

Fielder's Sponge

3 Eggs, 2 1/2 oz cornflour
1 teaspoon Baking Powder,
4 Tablesp Sugar, 1 dessert Flour,
Beat whites of eggs till
stiff add yolks, add sugar
gradually, Beat till stiff
& sugar dissolved. Bake
8" sandwich tins
15 minutes

W. I. P.

2010-10-05T14:52:00.003+13:00

Work in progress...

Flowering Trees

2010-10-04T09:47:00.003+13:00

Flowering Kaka Beak

Spring invades every branch and twig now. New shoots and blooms are everywhere and each day more tender yellow leaves unfurl on the giant Oak tree.

Nature's creativity is infectious and I cant help but be inspired.

An unidentified tree with flowers that look and smell like Kamahi,
but leaves that are smooth edged, not saw toothed.

Tear and Paste

2010-09-28T09:51:00.003+13:00

With my stash of vintage papers I recently spent a blissful afternoon tearing and pasting. I have found it's best not to plan anything, just rip and paste and the composition will emerge. If I start to plan, my thinking gets in the way and I end up stuck with too many possibilities and ideas to work with.

I am now well underway with a couple of new pieces for the Deco Echo Exhibition at the NZ Academy of Fine Arts. My theme (self imposed) is afternoon tea, an extension of the teacup series. I spent ages searching for some vintage hand written recipes to incorporate into these artworks, I'll give you a glimpse of my progress with them soon.

Double Luck

2010-09-23T08:00:00.002+12:00

Found just outside my front door on Tuesday. Double luck! I wonder what good things are coming my way...

Detail

2010-09-20T12:13:00.009+12:00

The soft, spring blossom is blown to shreds. A relentless wind tears through the trees and on the harbour, whitecaps charge for the shore. I'm sitting cozy here with the scene and its soundtrack restrained beyond the windows today.

Its been a while since I have written here as I have been occupied writing other things; Artist Statements and the like for a couple of exhibitions my work will be included in. I quite like the process of writing about my art, I like the distillation that occurs as I edit out all the unnecessary words and thoughts from a paragraph. It is a slow process to condense my ideas to their essence, to a nice concise, bite size summary. Something suitable for a passing viewer to read before their attention moves to something else. Its a satisfying journey too, it draws me back into the creative process all over again.

Its an act of faith to edit out much of what I could say about a particular artwork. I have faith that some people at least will get it, despite what I dont explain in detail.

For me much of the enjoyment of looking at an artwork is in its interpretation, what do I think its about? By leaving the final decision up to the viewer, the viewer can take ownership of its meaning, they become part of the creative process. An artist statement can help enrich your interpretation of an artwork. I try to provide an opening for the viewer; a way in from which if you choose to, you can discover more.

Susan posted a video of Squeak Carnworth talking about her work and the part that resonated most with me was when she said

"When people look at my work they should bring themselves, and they should pay attention to what their inner voice says and what intuitive leaps they have, what does it remind them of? There's no right answer."

I hope people will bring themselves to my artwork.

"The Young Brave" was accepted for the North Shore City Art Awards, the exhibition opens in three days.

The Young Brave presents the story of Jack, who at about the age of twelve in 1929 was given an adventure novel, The Long Trail Boys at Sweet Water Ranch, the Mystery of White Shadow.

Set in a North American context, it is an idealised story of friendship, adventure and heroism between the ‘native’ White Shadow and a group of boys. The tale is far removed from the reality of childhood experiences in nineteen thirties New Zealand. Ten years after Jack received the book New Zealand entered the Second World War and he was to face a quite different version of adventure and heroism; that experienced in battle.

As an artist I am interested in the relationship between objects and stories. I collect and re-present objects which connect with my memories, or the collective memories of a group or place. A mnemonic object is a memory keeper. It grants access to moments and emotions long since passed and otherwise ephemeral. Can the potency of a mnemonic object outlast its creator?

Spring Inspiration

2010-09-09T15:05:00.004+12:00

There really is something about spring that makes me want to clear things out and start afresh. I spent some time tidying my art materials and began a new inspiration board ready for this new season of growth and creativity.

Ten Good Things
A muddy path through a forest of green and an apple in my backpack
Rain beginning just as I arrive home
Peas sprouted in the garden
Spring cleaning, a clear desk and fresh inspiration
Thoughts of Martha Goes Green and her Oaty Choc Chip Seed Cookies
Pressed flowers, forgotten then found, in a book
Cats you meet on the street
An avian celebration of spring just outside my window
Posting secret parcels
Discovering some lovely new people to visit in blogland, Always Time for Tea, Little Postcards, Songs of Light & Sleep and Her Sisters

This post is for Muralimanohar who tagged me some time ago...

The book fair.

2010-08-27T09:56:00.005+12:00

I love old books and the stories that entwine themselves between the printed words. The stories that can only be glimpsed through the marks left by their owners or readers and through the patina of time.

I discovered some beautiful gems at the annual book fair last weekend. While there I fell into conversation with an ancient old man, and (since he asked) I told him I was looking for books with inscriptions and the like. His reply, "folks have some strange hobbies, don't they?" Ah... well yes, I guess they do. He soon shuffled away and sometime later another man, not so ancient this time, noticed my pile and he too stuck up a conversation. He told me all about the book plates and inscriptions in a number of books he once owned. I was glad of this momentary company, a kindred spirit I think.

Last night I set out to sea with Mr Crusoe having discovered him amongst my purchases when I got home. I'm sure I was the only one there selecting books without reading the titles first. It was a happy coincidence as Robinson Crusoe has been on my "To Read" list for a while.

Luck

2010-08-23T09:30:00.002+12:00

Found on a hill overlooking a city, while drinking tea from a thermos, as I sat on the bonnet of a car in the winter sunshine. Good luck is coming my way.

Bunting

2010-08-17T14:15:00.003+12:00

Its always a good idea to have some bunting on hand, just in case of unexpected celebrations.

I used an old garden book for the triangles and ripped an old sheet into strips for the tape.

Idea via Two & Six and Heartfelt

Tea and other things

2010-08-11T16:20:00.004+12:00

The last several days have been filled with snow and hot springs, a perfect combination for a winter getaway. I've returned home to find the first signs of spring emerging. The garlic has sprouted in the garden, the Daphne is blooming, the sun is hanging around a little later in the afternoon and I'm thinking about planting some peas.

Apart from my plans for the garden, I have lots of other projects afoot.

The Art Show was fantastic and already I have more ideas brewing. I spoke to so many lovely people, many of whom had stories to share about their own heirlooms and mnemonic objects. I particularly liked the story one lady told me about a small community where whenever someone passed away their china tea sets would be split and shared out to friends or family, cup by cup. Then later on, when drinking tea from the cup that once belonged to Aunt Belinda you would remember them. A lovely idea I think. I had so many people asking me about my tea cup series I'm sure I will be making more soon.

For those of you who came to the show and entered my giveaway, the winner of Gathered II is Moana J of Upper Hutt. I hope you find the perfect spot to hang it Moana.

Holiday

2010-08-03T21:19:00.003+12:00

A scene from the living room, a sign of the approaching spring.

I am overflowing with more art ideas since The Show. So much to share, but it shall have to wait, for I am off on a little holiday. Back soon.

Opening Night

2010-07-29T15:23:00.002+12:00

Just outside the window a Starling is singing his song and the rain is gently falling. The scene is glossy green and misty white.

Soon we (my blogless, websiteless artist friend A'sha and I) will head off to the Gala Opening of the NZ Art Show. I am so inspired already by all the art I have seen there. This should be a good weekend.

Hanging

2010-07-27T15:20:00.005+12:00

The good news people, is, I have finished. Artworks are dry, labelled, packed and ready to hang tonight! I'm hoping to hold onto what little energy I have left for a few more hours before I collapse into much needed rest. Who knew making a ga-zillion pieces of art, tweaking and updating my website, putting together a facebook page, designing a catalogue, biz cards and a host of other things would be so much effort?

Two days until the NZ Art Show opens!

Lovely Lady

2010-07-13T16:22:00.004+12:00

While flipping through a friends copy of Advanced Magnetism 1925 (a very curious book) on the weekend I came upon this photo tucked in between the fragile pages. The topic of the book was intriguing enough, this little gem the icing on the cake. She gave it to me, it was meant to be, you see.

Hasn't she a lovely face? I think I would have liked her if we had met, and the little one's hat, adorable.

The Amateur Botanist

2010-07-08T14:05:00.005+12:00

The Amateur Botonist and I will be at the NZ Art Show in three weeks!

Sunrise

2010-07-07T09:01:00.004+12:00

A winter sunrise on a day much fairer than today. Today, grey, grey, grey. With some rain thrown in for good measure.

100 Lovely Things

2010-07-05T10:55:00.005+12:00

Three weeks to go until the New Zealand Art Show and things are beginning to come together. This piece is one of my largest yet, 30x40 inches. Mixed media on canvas.

I'm in the addictive phase of my art making process right now, in the zone, the flow. Whatever you want to call it I cant get enough of it. Its invigorating, inspiring, enlivening and now I must go to get my next fix.

Mrs Archibald

2010-06-30T09:33:00.004+12:00

Mrs Archibald's photograph came into my possession long after she had left this life and shortly after the photo's slow passage from Canada. She probably never imagined that a trace of her would end up here. Far, far from where her life was lived.

I see Mrs Archibald wearing a thick skirt, layers and folds of fabric dragging and swishing around as she walked. A heavy key always concealed in a pocket deep amongst that fabric. I'm not sure what door the key unlocked. When she could steal a few moments to herself she would escape to the garden with a book. She loved to read, but all to often instead her mind would wander. Inevitably to wind up in the warm glow of distant memories of Brazil, of Physalis and that one wonderful day.

A few days past

2010-06-23T15:44:00.004+12:00

Some highlights from the weekend...

A winter's day bloomed as if of summer.
Walking beneath an immense blue sky, so bright and nourishing.
Bare feet in chilly ocean water.
A hunger satisfied by a picnic amongst the trees.
A cozy fire radiating welcome comfort.
Feeling so, so lucky to be.

Heart Collection

2010-06-18T13:26:00.002+12:00

I'm whisking New Husband away for a mystery weekend. Lets hope the weather clears and we will actually be able to venture outside. If it does perhaps I'll find another stone to add to my collection.

(BTW, we've been wondering how long you can legitimately add the prefix 'new' to husband and wife - any ideas anyone?)

Wild Apples

2010-06-10T10:15:00.004+12:00

The product of my most recent foraging expedition; Wild Apple Chutney. The apples were gathered from trees quite similar to and not far from these ones Heartfelt found.

I was happy today to discover, via Heartfelt, this foraging map. I feel another expedition is in order.

The Russian Caravan

2010-06-08T10:48:00.003+12:00

Russian Caravan tea this morning. Its smoky aroma has always conjured an image in my mind of a band of bohemian travellers. A circle of opulently embellished caravans parked up around a camp fire. A old billy brewing over the flames. A dark, starry sky sweeping to the horizon all around and a community of like minded souls singing, dancing, laughing and relaxing before the next leg of their perpetual journey. Turns out the Russian Caravan is really about camels.

My little teacup series is well underway now. There will be ten wee 6x6" sized teacups, and a few more larger ones. I'm looking forward to doing some more work on these this week.

50c

2010-05-27T16:29:00.003+12:00

Teacup, no saucer - 50 cents.

This afternoon I gathered my collection of old teacups together and began work on my 'teacup' series of mixed media pieces. They'll be a very sweet and girly bunch of artworks I imagine.

Lets see if I can post a 'work-in-progress' teacup next week.

Weather wise, its been a drizzly old day. Soup for dinner will be the perfect antidote. Brown Lentil with Lemon from Sarah Brown's Vegetarian Kitchen. A cook book without pictures is usually Not-a-Good-Thing, in my opinion, but I make an exception with this book.

Rain and Bliss

2010-05-25T16:13:00.005+12:00

Rain is falling again. A dense mist has absorbed the landscape and left nothing but a grey void outside the window. Inside this afternoon the lights are on, as is the heater and I am marinating in the coziness of the start of winter.

On a rainy day there is nothing better than to be tucked away from the world with a project to do. Preparing for the NZ Art Show is keeping me well occupied. This year my goal for the art show is to make it bigger and better than last year. More artwork. Bigger artwork. Lots of mixed media, plenty of photography. I'm immersed in piles of trinkets, leaves, paints, canvases, books and other paraphernalia of my creative process. Bliss.

THE Pictures

2010-05-17T15:27:00.005+12:00

Rather unexpectedly, I fell into a fairy tale. I'm still not quite recovered from it all. And nor do I want to be, really. After the last sentence was read and the cover gently shut, the story's wonderous, surprising magic lingers on.

All of these images are by the extraordinarily talented KATE MACPHERSON. Thank You Kate for our precious photographs!

Married!

2010-03-19T13:52:00.005+13:00

Ive been awfully quiet here, but only because I have been so hectically busy with planning and preparing for Friday the 12th of March 2010. A week has passed now... a whole week since the best day of my life... so far. Happy sigh. If I could just live in Friday the 12th of March forever I think I would be very content.

Sunshine, storms, friends, family, food, dancing, laughing, love, and magic all rolled up in a perfect package of wonderfulness. I still cant get over how lucky I am. We are. I want to remember always how happy we both were to be celebrating US that day. How did so many hours of planning and work fall into place, just for us? Unbelievable. The country hall, the golden grass, the wild apple trees, the mountain views, the rolling farmland, the hugs, the bunting, the dress.... everything. Just. So. Perfect.

Thank You Universe.

I cant bear to tuck that dress away just yet so its hanging by the window with some wedding bunting. So many hours of work Mum and I put into it, I want to enjoy it for longer than just one day.

Ive a million stories I could tell, but we are off on our Grand Tour of the North Island Honeymoon. Back in 6 weeks!

Love Unexpected

2010-02-12T10:05:00.003+13:00

An unintentional and unexpected message of love from my afternoon snack. More heart observations over at Chrissy's

Old and New

2010-02-10T12:01:00.005+13:00

One chilly winters day last year (or was it the year before?) I ventured outside to refill the log basket. The roaring fire needed re stoking and the task fell to me. The wood pile, stacked against the house seldom seems to diminish, the logs at the back sitting there for seasons while the front logs come and go with more frequency. Anyway, this winters day, towards the end of the season, the pile was getting a little lower and as I tugged at the dusty, cobwebbed old logs i spied a treasure. A treasure in the real true sense. A jewelery box. Somewhat worse for wear, but mostly intact. Can you imagine my delight! I'm mean, I love this kind of thing! Not forgetting my duty to the fireplace, I added the box to the wood basket and headed inside the house.

The old jewelry box, its hinge now only half working allowed me to open it up to peek inside. Within I discovered old necklaces, earrings, beads and jewels, all from another era. All covered with mud and dust and the patina of time.

This, it turned out, is a tale of ancestors, of a flood, and perhaps a little forgetfulness. I shall leave the story there, for your imagination to take it where it will.

Above you can see an art work I created at the end of last year which includes a brooch from this old jewelry box.

Peas

2010-02-09T10:57:00.003+13:00

Picked.

February

2010-01-29T16:22:00.006+13:00

Outside my window today; a glistening harbour and a hundred little yachts marching out across its surface.

January disappeared before I noticed and here I am living in February. Sometimes lately, well most of the time, I feel hours go by in an instant, days melt away rapidly and I am left wondering how to make the clock slow down so I can pause and catch my breath.

I collected these hydrangeas from across the road the other day and they serve well to remind me to get outside and take a walk in the sunshine, to have a moment to just be. The little jug I picked up recently in some Op shop or other. It reminds me of a lovely friend on mine, I think she has a similar one.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T08:40:00.003+13:00

Yesterday I bought my first cherries of the season. Cherrries are the most Christamassy of fruit I think. Especially heart shaped cherries.

I have finally, finally tidied up a lot of work and for the first time in ages I can now take a breather. This morning it seems, at last, that the holiday season has begun. Today i'll head into town to finish up my Christmas shopping, while I'm near by I will take a look in The Academy of Fine Arts to see my art hanging there. I'll have coffee with a friend and visit the library. I'll drop off some home-laid-free-range eggs to this years nominated Pavlova maker and then head home to begin preparations for my vegetarian Christmas dish, Tibetan Roast. After that I might pull out some Christmas lights and decorate the window.

Tomorrrow my summer holiday shall begin! Merry Christmas!

I'll be back in January sometime...

Elderflower

2009-12-02T12:47:00.006+13:00

Across the road and down a steep bank, amongst an overgrown garden there blooms an Elder tree. Beautiful, but impossible to reach from above or below. Those little white explosions of scent taunted me as I dreamed of Elderflower Champagne.

Then, oh happy day, amongst a tangle of blackberry, cabbages and chickens, I stumbled upon another Elder tree. Yes!

I plucked some blooms and now have a sweet liquid ready to bottle. I used Jannelle's recipe and will keep the bottles in the shed in case they explode, as apparently can happen.

Bright Side

2009-11-24T13:33:00.001+13:00

I feel the dismal grey sink in through my skin. It tests my spirits, this unfriendly weather. The days of monotonous grey roll on and on with no end in sight. Perhaps it would not have seemed so bad had I not known the glorious easy weather of Australia. Sigh.

Still, The Bright Side throws me little rays of sunshine from time to time.

Bright Sides:

A message received telling me this artwork sold at the North Shore City Art Awards Exhibition (Yay, Thank You)
An evening crafting up a storm with a couple of lovely ladies.
Rhubarb Sour Cream Pie from my Hungry Girls Cookbook
An email accepting my application for a spot at the new Frank Kitts Market (Yay, Thank You)
Unexpecdly receiving a gift voucher for Swonderful
Looking forward to a 'secret weekend' away, planned by my one and only true love Jamie.
Delivering my art to the Acadamy of Fine Arts.

Sunshine, how I miss you

2009-11-12T09:15:00.005+13:00

Im home. Ten days of family, friends, swimming, eating, shopping, lizards, bats, cockatoos, koalas, scrub turkeys, and endless sunshine are over. Vague thoughts of moving to Brisbane are swirling around in my head. The sunshine, the heat, so tempting.

Finishing Touches

2009-10-29T09:18:00.005+13:00

Many years ago a lady sat and sewed. I imagine her unfolding the pattern and laying it out. I almost hear the slight rustling of the new tissue as she worked. Measuring, pinning, checking. Her hands would have been confident and steady as she cut through the aqua fabric. Her sewing machine, a simple, noisy beast, would have whizzed down the seems with speed. Before long the dress would have been finished, ready to wear to that special occasion for which it was made.

About forty years later I sat unpicking this hard work. Today I will put the finishing touches on my new upcycled vintage creation!

I must finish it today, tomorrow I fly up, up and away. Heading off north west on holiday. A wedding in the sunny land of Australia. I am SO looking forward to heat, a constant 30 degrees please (did I mention its raining - again). And, off course, I am looking forward seeing some of my favourite Aussies. Back in ten days - see you then!

Seedlings

2009-10-19T10:41:00.005+13:00

Tomato seedlings soaking in the sun this morning. Ive put them on the window sill inside to keep them nice and cozy.

My dress is hanging above on the curtain rail, sleeveless, but unfinished. I had a thought last week that I could get double duty out of it and wear it to the opera too. This prompted a flurry of unpicking but then when I realised it wouldn't be done in time, it was left neglected hanging above the tomato seedlings.

I found something else to wear to the opera and the show was wonderful. It was particularly wonderful to see my Love Jamie up on stage in the chorus, singing his heart out. His voice gives me chills, in a good way. Tomorrow I have a date with the sewing machine.

Thrift

2009-10-09T11:57:00.006+13:00

Miss Seymour didn't own these earrings but I'm absolutely certain they would have been just her taste.

Inspired by Janelle, I thought I'd share my latest and most favourite Op Shop finds.

The ear rings I found someplace amongst a pile of other junky gems. These were the only ones I brought home with me, I must have known I would later find a dress to match.

Ive been searching high and low for a dress to wear to a wedding to no avail. I overlooked this one amongst the flotsam and jetsam in one op shop. My little sister fortunately had sharper eyes than I, and pulled it out for me. Sometimes little sisters are really useful. Im thinking of removing the sleeves and adjusting the collar-thing. Opinions anyone? Or should I leave the sleeves?

A good day

2009-10-08T20:41:00.003+13:00

Yesterday the little patch of blue in the sky grew and grew. It grew so wide the clouds were pressed to the horizon.

I did some art but also decided to spend a little time outside to make the most of the sun. I whizzed up the most delicious smoothie (Greek yoghurt, banana, kiwifruit and apple juice) and sat out at my picnic table amongst the trees and rambling weeds, my own little jungle.

Later I made some teepees in preparation for peas I will plant.

A good day.

Wednesday morning

2009-10-07T10:23:00.005+13:00

Last week the sunshine and the orange blanket on my bed set the room aglow with warmth. Today there is no glow.

Spring has regressed. I sit here this morning looking out to a dull grey world. I feel the icy chill pressing at the windows. The hills to the north have evaporated into nothingness, as has the harbor. At the nearest edge of the water though, through the murk of mist, I see a little red tug heroically guiding a container ship out. Its the Maersk Radford, heading to Nelson. What could be on board I wonder?

I will keep myself tucked inside today and put some time towards my art. The mixed media process I am using involves many layers and much patience.

Right now I'm off to the kitchen to knead some bread for the oven. I see a blue patch in the sky to the west, the sun is rushing through and its heading my way.

Tuesday Morning

2009-09-29T09:58:00.003+13:00

Last week's blossoms, blown away in this week's wind.

Things, (the things that make up a life), all seem a bit tenuous these last few days. Not sure why.

I need a good full day of creativity I think. I'm assigning myself an Art Only day. And perhaps a walk. And maybe I'll treat myself to a hot chocolate at that new cafe up the road.

First Inspiration

2009-09-25T09:25:00.006+12:00

Im not sure what my original intention was when I picked up this old record at the opp shop. When I arrived home I noticed something I hadn't before, written in the top left corner, an inscription. In November 1955 Chris sat down to write a note to his friend Kate, and that is all we can be sure of.

London 10/11/1955

Kate,

With loving thanks for all your kindness, the tons of toast & gallons of coffee which we enjoyed in No. 10. We meet again.

Chris.

I can't help wondering if it was the number 10. Anyway, after discovering this inscription several years ago I became fascinated with little fragments of other peoples lives and the mysteries that get left behind once they have moved on.

It seems I'm not alone, i was happy to discover the book inscriptions project via Sara - fascinating reading :)

Last season's

2009-09-24T10:09:00.009+12:00

A still morning, no wind, no sun, no noise. Its one of those mysterious un-weather days. Kind of like an unbirthday, which co-incidentally it is today too.

Walking home from town the other day I spied a cape gooseberry bush. Im sure these fruit must ripen in the autumn so these must be left over from last season. I didnt think anyone would mind, so I discretely hopped a fence to gather these little lanterns from beneath the bush. I also found this remnant from last seasons Pohutukawa. These little trinkets will be tucked away carefully until one day when I dedide they are just what I need for an art work.

I have been working on some other art things. Progress is slow. I seem to work like that. At first it seems as if all my effort is dissipating into thin air with nothing to show for it. Just a partly prepared surface, various separate, half finished elements, dirty paint brushes and a pile of rubbish to tidy. No masterpiece.

I become a little despondent at my lack of progress. My doubts arise to taunt me. That little critic comes out to remind me of how much I haven't achieved.

But, a-ha(!) I have a little song to hum:

Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate...
Tolkien

And there always is a new road. Must remember this.

Good Things

2009-09-22T08:28:00.005+12:00

Good things:

A rickety old deck chair tucked into a private spot in the garden.
The sensation of my body defrosting after winter in the warm spring sunshine.
A stack of pre-loved magazines, passed on by a friend.
Tui swooping, Piwakawaka flitting, Kaka squawking.
Fresh spring water with a twist of lemon.
Seedlings sprouting.
A cheque in the mail for art sold (Thank You Universe).
A weekend lunch to plan - im thinking little sandwiches served on little plates.
And the sweetest bunch of flowers from Mum's garden.

Walk

2009-09-17T20:30:00.008+12:00

A soft blue sky and mellow sunshine drew me out 'exploring' this morning. Before too long my explorations were rewarded with the discovery of a narrow track through the bush. The track was edged with young fernlike plants, all fresh and shiny. Some of them unfurling happily as if after a restful sleep. The track led me winding down the hill under a canopy of green and eventually ejected me on the edge of town.

Oceans

2009-09-16T16:02:00.005+12:00

An image from the 'archives' today.

An image of sorrow, of stillness, acceptance, pain, tenderness, heartache, emptiness, beauty, love, eternity, longing and a thousand other things that there are no words for.

I move in an ocean as smooth and dark as a mirror at night. The cool water carries me. The tide ebbs and flows and all I can do is float with it. Surrender my sadness and allow myself to be suspend in its sorrowful embrace. An embrace both heartbreaking and healing at once.

I am healing. There has been sadness these last few days. My heart has been broken and yet it still beats on. Life is like that I think.

Tonight I'll take strength in my Love's kind eyes, I'll smile in conversation with a friend, I'll take a walk at twilight and savor the bird's last tunes for the day. I'll do it all again tomorrow too.

Afternoon Tea

2009-09-10T16:34:00.006+12:00

I'm sure many a story and a few good bits of gossip have been revealed over these old plates. Little cucumber sandwiches would have been eaten delicately while happy and sad news was exchanged. Home baked Afghan biscuits would have been savoured, crumbs carefully caught and dusted back onto the floral porcelain.

I've been collecting up old mismatched plates for a while now. I'll make several of these cake stands and add my own story to their history when they are used at my wedding in the not too distant future. Looking forward to that.

In a few short hours my True Love and I will be driving off into the sunset (no, not to elope), heading for the beach. Ive been counting down the days with anticipation, waiting for the time when I can escape and do nothing for a few days.

Of course I don't actually mean do nothing. I'll be packing up some art supplies. I have some goals... but more on them later.

Promised

2009-09-03T07:29:00.000+12:00

On Monday I told myself if, and only if, I was very diligent in my work this week, I would be rewarded with a trip to the book fair on the weekend. Sometimes a little reward can motivate you to go a long way. I'll head straight for the old book section and make my selection aesthetically.

Foraging

2009-09-01T09:07:00.003+12:00

After listening to 'This Way Up' a few weeks ago I was inspired to do some food foraging myself. I did some double checking to make sure I wasn't going to poison myself and then headed outside on a mission. Im not sure if you can really call it foraging when all you do is step outside your door and find the nearest patch of weeds only a few steps away, but oh well.

I gathered Chickweed, Onionweed and Nasturtium along with a bunch of 'official' herbs and lettuce leaves from the garden and enjoyed a fresh spring salad. The remaining onionweed flowers looked sweet in a little glass. I shall never buy spring onions again.

Stamps

2009-08-28T10:45:00.001+12:00

I stumbled upon a child's book of stamp collecting on the same day as I discovered the illustrated botanical books. It came home with me too.

At home I tipped out my stash of stamps from an ancient brown paper bag. The bag has been home to this pile of stamps since before I can remember, it is so crinkled and soft it now feels like flannelette.

Most of them were collected by my Dad. I think I started adding to it (sporadically) at about age 12. They have never been ordered, catalogued or arranged into an album. The brown paper bag of stamps has always been more like a button jar. Sometimes you spill out all the stamps and arrange them into little groups; by colour, by country, my motif, you admire their details, and then you gently pack them away again until the next time.

Vintage Karo

2009-08-27T10:04:00.004+12:00

I spied these two old botanical books among a line of ill ordered volumes at one of my local op shops. I pulled them out of their rows with anticipation and I was not disappointed. Inside colourful illustrations fill the pages. I even identified a native plant that I have wondered about for a while now. Karo.

It seems one of the books was once the property of Fresno County Free Library, which I googled to discover is far away in California. How did this little book make its way around the world to end up in my hands? There must be an interesting story there....

Tidy

2009-08-20T10:20:00.004+12:00

The sun is out. I think today is a good day to ignore all the boring things I should do and instead spend some time at my freshly cleared art table. A clear table is kind of like a blank page, so lovely and satisfying as it is that you almost don't want to mess it up, but also full of potential for so much more.

I'll slide the table into the sun in front of the big window and enjoy the warmth as I plan and create. I never really seem to know what I am going to do until I do it, but Ive assembled some little things to help open the flood gates of creativity. Inspired of course by the master of assemblage, Joseph Cornell.

Art Love

2009-08-18T08:40:00.009+12:00

"Bloom Forth" Flora S Bowley

Imagine slipping into a dream of a magical landscape. A landscape filled with all manner of familiar forms from nature, yet so different to anyplace you've ever been. There's a kind of hum in the air from the energy of it all.

"Heartlight" Flora S Bowley

I discovered the work of Flora S Bowley via a post by Kelly Rae Roberts. I am seduced by this celebration of colour and nature. I really cant decide which piece is my favourite. They all seem to sing their own little songs to me.

"Blue Linum" Flora S Bowley

Check out her special projects. If only I could afford to fly her to this side of the world and commission a wedding painting...

All images in this post are copyright Flora S Bowley and used here with permission.

Wattle

2009-08-17T10:00:00.003+12:00

Grey skies on a Monday, sigh. I'm consolated though by the little sprig of sunshine I picked the other day. The recent spring like weather inspired me to go ambling down some new and unexplored streets around here. It was on one of these little jaunts that I came across a Wattle in full bloom. The powdery, summery scent transports me immediately to age nine, walking past a row of these trees on my way to and from primary school.

After work today I plan to finish a little spring cleaning and create some space (both physivcally and mentally) for my creativity. Looking forward to that.

Daphne

2009-08-12T10:43:00.005+12:00

Im trying to hold on to my creative flow amongst a pile of disruption this week. Things feel all rearranged and disheveled. Because they are; carpet being pulled up, concrete pouring, paint being scrapped… Im not sure where to go or what to do, but anyway, I carry on.

Amongst the mild chaos I created a little alter to peacefulness. I brought the Daphne in from the doorstep. Its sweet scent seeps from delicate pink petals. A sumptuous aroma has settled upon the air. With any slight disturbance the air currents sweep it up, swirling and whirling the fragrance around the room. Loveliness.

Happiness

2009-07-31T09:10:00.005+12:00

I'm all abuzz with inspiration and possibilities. The thrill of having my own wall at The Affordable Art show hasn't worn off.

Highlights:

The excitement of opening night: crowds of people, each with glass of wine in hand, music bubbling in the background and art all around.

Seeing the work of my sweet friend A'sha in The Signature Gallery! So proud of her :)

My fist piece being sold before I even arrived - so exciting.

People thanking me for my artwork! Um, hello, can I thank you for liking it?!

Other peoples stories... stories of teaspoons and books and stamp collections...

Reading in the Rain

2009-07-25T20:42:00.005+12:00

The sound of rain against the roof, the night dark and treacherous beyond the window. A pile of soft and squashy cushions upon a chair. An old, well loved woolen blanket. A mug of hot milky tea and a lamp glowing gentle amber. The old red book, its cover faded and worn, rests in my hands. The tale within alive and restless, waiting for release.

Ive started reading this book, although I never intended to. I bought it for the inscription inside knowing I would use it in my artwork. As I was photographing the inscription my eyes glanced across the first few lines and I was hooked.

Between paragraphs of Tess, Ive been madly creating for the art show which opens in less than a week....

Teaspoons

2009-07-21T16:59:00.006+12:00

Another teaspoon added itself to my unintentional collection last week. It emerged from the garden, the recent heavy rain washing it free from its confinement beneath the dirt. I know there is some kind of tale to be told regarding its history, but I am yet to imagine it.

Welcome to my new blog, Arty Lovely. A blog about creativity, inspiration, making, dreaming, thinking, doing, tall tales and true ones too. Im Veronica. Glad you came by.