Kathryn Frund Assemblage Artist Created a Whimsical Sculpture to Talk About How Balloons Are Killing Wildlife and The Envirnment

Assemblage Artist Kathryn Frund at Erector Square

On Saturday I visited the art studio of Kathryn Frund who delights in finding meaningful found objects that she reassembles to make an assemblage which communicates an important message. In this re-cycled Chandelier construction Kathryn has taken balloon, string, ribbon remnants that she found on the beach and as created an attractive assemblage
attached to old street sign signage.

Balloons are killing wildlife on land, sea, air. Read more at http://balloonsblow.org/impacts-on-wildlife-and-environment/ 

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Discarded Ceramic Cut-Outs In Litchfield Connecticut Shop Inspiration For Mixed Media Art

Contemporary Art Is Found Everywhere: Mixed Media Artist C.Dianne Zweig Explores The Art of Possibility 
Why do Mixed Media artists always get excited about leftovers and unusual gargage. To be   totally accurate, sometimes discarded materials aren't really garbage as is the case with this pile of cut out clay which will actually be recycled and used to make new objects. But for the moment this growing pile of hardened clay cut outs sits in the back of a gorgeous custom made tile store in Litchfield, CT. I strolled into the store lured by a fabulous window display of glazed functional pottery and custom tiles. However, I was equally excited to explore this heap of broken and left over pieces in the back corner of the shop.  To a Mixed Media Artist who lives in possibility, the art is everywhere. So what would you do with these pieces?  Stencils, Assemblage art, jewelry ? Feel free to post your ideas please.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Connecticut Abstract Painter and Mixed Media Artist C. Dianne Zweig Introduces Art Schmooze Blog

Blogging About Art Matters at Art Schmooze

For many years I have been blogging about antiques and collectibles. I now introduce a new blog, titled "Art Schmooze" devoted to Contemporary Mixed Media and Abstract Painting. You will find timely posts of interest to those intersted in the psychology of creativity, art process, elements of design, art tools and materials, art inspiration, art workshops and classes, special art events, book reviews, art matters online and more. Followers of this blog are welcome to visit me at http://www.cdiannezweig.com/blog-native/ and share in the discussions. Feel free to say hello.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Creative Savers Can Get Overwhelmed In Their Mixed Media Art Studios Which Can Be Packed With Artsy Treasures Waiting To Be Re-Purposed Or Used As Art Tools

Downsizing Your Art Studio

I'm about to "downsize" my art studio which has become packed with really fabulous STUFF but is starting to cramp my style. I just know that so many of you who are reading this post understand the mind of the creative saver. I can remember thinking about the concept of re-purposing useful items way before the phrase got catchy. Let's be honest, it is hard for some of us to simply let go of potential art and craft treasures. We look at the world differently that other people. I can fondly remember strolling through Provincetown and seeing broken ceramic tiles being used as the ground cover in a trendly grocery store. I picked up a handful of these very interesting tileswith textured backs to stamp or print with in my Mixed Media work. Who am I kidding. I know that after I thin our some of my collections of artsy treasures, I will just replace them with new ones!  Feel free to comment on this post and share our experiences.

Visit my art website  http://www.cdiannezweig.com/     

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Connecticut Abstract Painter C. Dianne Zweig Introduces Art Schmooze Blog On Contemporary Mixed Media and Painting

Art Schmooze Blog Designed For Abstract Artists    

Is it not hard enough keeping up with one blog? Now I have launched a second blog called "Art Schmooze" which is integrated into my newly revamped website  C. Dianne Zweig.com . My son built my art website on the Squarespace.com platform so that I could easily navigate and update content. Relatively computer illiterate, I am working my way through yet another tech maze. I will have to report back to you later on just how well the blog is reaching out on the web.

My new blog "Art Schmooze" will cover Contemporary Mixed Media Art topics and tips. I will also also use this section of my C. Dianne Zweig website to talk about my upcoming events and art shows and other artsy matters. I would love for my followers to stop by "Art Schmooze" and leave some comments so I get the schmooze thing going, thanks.  


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Setting Up Your Art Studio Or Craft Room Space

Discovering Your Art Studio Space Quirks

Once you have shlepped all your art supplies, products, materials, tables, easels etc into your new art space, where do you actually set up shop so you can work comfortably and productively? Each artist has to find out what their unique work vibe is.  Do you like working near windows? Are you an artist who prefers being "hidden" away from public view? "Do you want to paint near the air conditioner or further away? Are you storing paints to close to the sun? Take your time planning out where tables, paints, papers will go and respect the fact that your ideas about placement will keep changing as you begin to work more and more in a given space.

Tips About Art Studio Lighting

The long and the short of this blog is that you shouldn't get too bogged down with where things are going when you first move into a new art studio.  Additionally, be real careful about the kind and location of your lights. I'm still trying to remedy my overhead lighting. Talk to lighting experts and read up on this topic before setting up your lights. While I like the "warmth" of my track lighting in the in between season before the heat goes on,  it gets way too hot under all the lights I ambitiously installed. Yes I want  to be able to see what I  am doing and I also want to light up my gallery walls, but I so think I went way overboard.  So hot that you can fry a chicken is not the goal!  Explore your lighting very carefully.
               
Try hard to take some time to "live in" your space before declaring your interior design a done deal.

Visit my art studio website: http://www.cdiannezweig.com/


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Storing Art Studio Paint Brushes in Vintage Pottery Vases

Using Vintage Pottery As Storage Containers For Art Studio Paint Brushes 

I like to use either vintage pottery vases or handmade studio pottery as containers in my Mixed Media art studio. Other artists may use empty glass jars or old coffee tins. Some artists seem to pay attention to the overall look of their studio, while others could care less and focus only on their work. I guess I fall into the category of wanting to "stage" even the supplies and storage containers I use.

Buying Vintage Vases In Junk Stores

My favorite place to shop for "stuff" for my art studio is in junk shops or at flea markets. I usually spend under ten dollars for most of my pottery or ceramic vases. I picked up the vase shown because I adored the design pattern which mimics my own artwork which is inspired by Mid Century design.

BTW, the white sculptural head shown as well, also came from a junk shop!

Photo taken by C. Dianne Zweig


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Doodle A Star For Your Christmas Tree Or Holiday Decor

Doodle A Kitschy Holiday Ornament For Your Christmas Tree 

If you have a lot of energy you need to use up, try spending some time doodling on a star to use as a kitschy holiday decoration.
You can buy cardboard stars in most craft supply stores or cut out your own form.  The star shown was colored with Sharpie markers, paint pens including metallic gold as one of the colors.
Both sides of the star were worked on. It takes a lot of time to doodle but it's fun and it's good therapy!

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Making Handmade Christmas Tree Themed Holiday Wrapping Paper

Handmade Christmas Wrapping Paper You Can Make With Your Kids

Why buy holiday wrapping paper when you can actually make your own. This is a great family project for all age groups. While this demo utilizes a tree motif, you can certainly experiment with many holiday symbols and a variety of festive colors.  In these photos, a green and red palette is used with a Christmas tree design. Feel free to experiments with lots of different materials, colors and designs.



Materials

18 X 24 Canson Recycled Sketch or Drawing Paper (comes in pads of 100 sheets).
Acrylic paint
Do-A-Dot Art Markers
paint brushes
crayons, markers, color pencils
stamps (can find ad craft stores)
textures for printing i.e. bubble wrap, corrugated paper




Thanks to Ginny August  from the Farmington Valley Arts Center for demonstrating this project.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Summer Campers At The Farmingnton Valley Arts Center Create Jackson Pollock Inspired Abstract Paintings

"Action Painting" At Farmington Valley Arts Center's Summer Camp 

Campers attending the "Summer Arts Adventure For Kids Program" at The Farmington Valley Arts Center  (FVAC) in Avon, CT have created some rather amazing Jackson Pollock inspired abstract paintings. Pollock, was a major influence in the abstract expressionist movement.  In the late 1940s, Pollock developed the "drip and splash" style of applying paint.  Many of his pieces were set on the floor or on a wall where he used unconventional objects instead of paint brushes to drip paint and create what is known as "action paintings" .

About The Farmington Valley Arts Center 

Take a look at these exciting paintings which were made by school age children last week at The Farmington Valley Arts Center, a non-profit center which is home to twenty artist studios, year rounds classes and workshops, a summer  arts program for children and adolescents, two galleries and a artisan gift shop.  For more information visit: http://artsfvac.org/

Readers, what do you think....are these amaizing for young children? BTW....this is not as easy as it looks.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Artist Boardwalk Tag Sale: Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT Saturday July 19th, 9:00-1:00pm

 Announcing 

BIG ARTIST TAG SALE at THE FARMINGTON VALLEY ARTS CENTER , AVON, CT 

I love going to tag sales and I love doing artwork so I'm excited to tell you about the

"Artist Boardwalk Sale" at the Farmington Valley Arts Center (FVAC)  in Avon CT this Saturday, July 19th, 2014.

Original Artwort, Art Supplies, Studio Furnishings, Frames, Crafts, Jewelry, Books and More 

You will find everything and the kitchen sink at this sale. Artists are notorious collectors of creative treasures so you can imagine how much ART STUFF  the twenty plus artists who have studios at the Farmington Valley Arts Center have accumulated over the years. This is the BIG one...the Center, which is celebrating it's 40th

While at FVAC, be sure to visit The Fisher Gallery Artisan Gallery and Gift shop and The Drezner Gallery for the "Words and Birds" Summer Exhibit.   

year is boasting a great indoor and outside sale. Be sure to get there early..hours are 9:00-1:00 at 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

The Art of Style: Fine Art & Contemporary Fashion" Featuring The Fuse Factory Artists of The Farmington Valley Arts Center at Bodytalk Boutique May 1, 2014, 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Opening Night, May 1 For The Fuse Factory Artists of The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT 

Tonight, May 1, 2014 is a big night for me and my sister Fuse-ettes....tonight, The Fuse FactoryArtists is having the opening reception for our debut show "The Art of Style: Fine Art & Contemporary Fashion" at Bodytalk Boutique, 21 East Main St., Avon, CT.   Our opening wine and cheese reception is from 5:30-8:00 and will also include music and a few surprises. Terry, the amazingly creative manager of Bodytalk and her spirited staff have transformed this popular clothing store into an exciting, vibrant, quirky Chelsea-esque art gallery. Artwork will be on exhibit the entire month of May.


Spring Into Color at Bodytlak Boutique, Avon, CT

Bodytalk's Spring line of stylish clothing  has been paired with coordinating artwork, sculpture and ceramics from eleven different artists who all have studios in the nearby Farmington Valley Arts Center. The Fuse Factory Artists adopted their group name from the original use of the Art Center building which houses the "Climax Fuse Company in 1884.  OK stop laughing..... I didn't know myself, I was renting studio space in such an "exciting" place.

The Fuse Factory Artists An Artist Collective With Members Who Have Studios at The Farmington Valley Arts Center  

Anyway back to our professional group of artists. Our mission is to take our work on the road and to get out of our studio once in a while. There are currently 11 members of this recently formed artist collective with a few fence sitters who are soon to join us.  Melissa Meredith, a Master printmaker at FVAC came up with our wonky name which was enthusiastically adopted by the group. Our terrific logo was designed by group member, Susan Brereton. Getting consensus on our "identity" is a miracle in of itself....have you ever gotten 11 women in a room together to agree on anything ...no less 11 very accomplished juried artists?

Meet The Fuse Factory Artists

Our clan or is it posse, includes Candace Abbott, Ginny August, Annette Baser, Susan Brereton, Claire Fish, Betsy Gardner, Fran Hoffnagle, Danielle Langford, Estelle Laschever, Melisssa Meredith, and yours truly C. Dianne Zweig. Each of the artists works completely differently with works featuring original oil painings, ceramics, pottery, sculpture, Mixed media, Monotypes, collages and more.

Readers Please Tell Others About The Fuse Factory Artists

Please help me out, by spreading the word about our show. Be sure to let me know if you are a blog follower when you visit. Hope to see you soon!

   
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Shop Handmade Gifts For The Holidays at Farmington Valley Arts Center New Gift Shop and Gallery

 CHOOSE HANDMADE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTS: VISIT THE DREZNER HOLIDAY GIFT GALLERY AND SHOP at the FARMINGTON VALLEY ARTS CENTER, AVON, CT

Drezner Holiday Gift Shop Gallery open Wednesday through Friday 12:00-4:00pm and Saturday all day 

Visit  http://artsfvac.org/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Mixed Media Colors: When You Just Can't "Own" The Palette

Painted Papers For Collage With Colors That Scream Help!

This post is for my Mixed Media followers who will know exactly what I am talking about when it comes to falling into just the right palette. Well let's say the last palette I fell into I just can't own. I  am trying to like it, but it doesn't work for me. Remember the Bravo T.V. show "Work of Art" ? One of the art critics, I think it was Jerry Saltz, would often say "it just doesn't work for me". Well that is how I feel about the colors on the papers I painted for my current series of collages. What do you think....are these colors working
for you?


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Holiday Decorating With Fresh Greenery: Getting Ready For Shopping in a Winter Wonderland at The Farmington Valley Arts Center

The Only Holiday Greens I Knew About (Until Yesterday) Were Spinach and Kale 
I am very proud to announce that yesterday marked the first time I helped decorate for Christmas. I've had a lot of experience with blue and white banners, dreidels and this year Thanksgiving latkes, but not much floor time with greens and wreaths. In fact, the only greens I really know about are spinach and kale. 

Decorating The Farmington Valley Arts Center For Winter Wonderland 

So please understand  it was a big deal for me to show up at holiday workshop to help make holiday swags to adorn the outside posts and doors at The Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, CT. where I have my art studio (Studio 9B). 



Getting To Know My Holiday Decorating Greens 

I arrived to our beloved classroom in 3A ( a place I have taken many classes before I became "a real artist" LOL). It was there that I was introduced to a whole new variety of holiday "greens" gathered from the landscape around the art center and brought in from our artist's gardens.  I learned that you can use, White Pine, Virginia Pine, Junipers (fragrant), True Cedars, Firs, Spruce, Ivy, Holly (green and variegated) and many Evergreens such as Hemlock. 

Making Holiday Swags Is A Hand's On Experience: Protect Your Hands

By the end of the afternoon, I had a whole new appreciation of the bounty that was available for FREE. But let's get back to the actual hands on experience. You need to be prepared for working with your hands and protecting your hands. Old gloves are helpful. Forget about using the thin surgical gloves that many of us Mixed Media artists use in our studios. You will never be able to wrap wire around your bunches of greens with rubber goves on. You'll get all jammed up, trust me!

Making Holiday Swags

So what actually is a holiday swag? It is an arrangement of greens bound with wire, a colorful holiday ribbon and dressed with embellishments such as coloroful ribbons and bows, berries or  acorns if you wish. After the first four swags I made...the rest were a piece of cake. Making the bows was another story. 

You can see our holiday swags this Friday night, December 6th, 2013 at The Farmington Valley Arts Center Open Studios and Shopping in A Winter Wonderland 6:00-9:00 pm. Sample chocolates in each of the studios and visit The Drezner Holiday Gift Gallery and the Fisher Gallery for a wonderful glimmering exhibit.

For more information visit: http://artsfvac.org/37th-annual-candlelight-opening/

Angel Themed Handmade Gifts And Artwork Featured at The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT

Handmade Angel Gifts During Candlelight Season Celebration at The Farmington Valley Arts Center

Angels are a very popular holiday theme in art, gifts and collectibles.  The Drezner Holiday GIft Gallery at The Farmington Valley Arts Center has a beautiful collection of handcrafted and fine artist made wearable art, wall decor, pottery, ceramics, functional gifts etc. with angel designs.

Christmas Tree Angels

Angels played a significant role in the first Christmas and have become a holiday decorating tradition.  "The History of Christmas Tree Angels" is explained on the website
by About.com called "Angels" and Miracles".

Whitney Hopier explains that Tree topper angels would be placed "at the very top of the Christmas tree to symbolize the significance of the angels who appeared above Bethlehem to joyfully announce Jesus's birth on the first Christmas".

Guardian Angels

Angels are popular collectibles throughout the year. The "Guardian Angel" is important to many people of different religious beliefs who think of an angel figurine or angel themed artwork as a symbol of the endearing  angel that will watch over them and loved ones.  Some people assign this role to an actual person and believe that someone special has been assigned to accompany them on their journey on earth.

Personal Angels

In Judaism, some believe in personal angels as well as the belief that different guardian angels may serve different people at various times. In an article called "Do I Have My Own Guardian Angel" by Whitney Hopier notes that the Jewish Midrash Bereshit Rabba says that people can become their own guardian angels by fulfilling the tasks of God.

Angel Designed Handcrafted Gifts For The Holidays  at The farmington Valley Arts Center Drezner Gallery

Angel designed gifts are always well received during the holidays. On a recent visit to The Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, CT  I found beautiful silk "angel" scarves made by Roasalia "Lia" Lee. Lori Barker, has a collection of original angel art on display as well. You will also find wooden angel shelf sitters, figurines and more. Angel lovers should also visit the Pottery Spectrum Studio right next door to the gift shop at The Farmington Valley Arts Center to see more handcrafted angels made by studio artist Ginny August.

The Drezner Gift Gallery at The Farmington Valley Arts Center

Open
Wednesday, Thurssday, Friday  12:00-4:00pm
Saturday 10:00-4:00pm

Special holiday hours

Friday, December 6 6 pm to 9 pm– Shopping in a Winter Wonderland

Chocol’Art – sample chocolaty treats in studios!

also visit:  http://artsfvac.org/


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Quirky, Colorful, Glimmering Exhibit in The Fisher Gallery During 37th Annual Candlelight Celebration at The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon CT November 22, 2013 - December 21, 2013

Mixed Media, Sculptures and Urban Folk Art By Artist Bill Healy Showing in The Fisher Gallery at Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT 37th Annual Candlelight Celebration, Opening 5:00 -9:00 pm November 22, 2013 Through December 21, 2113. 

Quirky, colorful, whimsical and magical is how I would describe the holiday exhibit for the 37th Candlelight Celebration in the Fisher Gallery at The Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, CT.

This year, you will find a shimmering giant kinetic mobile sculpture of a Pegasus created by Robin Protz, centered in the gallery surrounded by original Urban Folk Art, Assemblage art, Mixed media, sculpture, Art glass and more.


Urban Folk Artist Bill Healy at Farmington Valley Arts Center

Local artist Bill Healy funks up the gallery with his offbeat menagerie of  Urban Folk Art which will remind you not to take life too seriously. His unique funky junk art assemblages
and offbeat wall decor with bold form and bright colors will both charm you and keep you entertained.

Bill, known for his metal can robots using vintage advertising tins has expand his reportoire of looney objets d' art to create both large and small colorful figurative assemblages.

You will find a good represention of sculpture, glass art, photography, mixed media, pottery by regional artists on exhibit during the 37th Annual Candlelight Celebration.

For more information please visit http://artsfvac.org/ 
  
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Visit Open Artist Studios At Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT During Candlelight Opening, November 22, 2013, 5:00-9:00pm

Visit Esther Drezner Holiday Gift Gallery, Open Studios, Tea Room, 
Fisher Gallery at Farmington Valley Arts Center   Candlelight Opening, November 22, 2013, 5:00-9:00pm  

The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT which boasts 20 artist studios, two galleries and classroom space has also been known for carrying wonderful holiday gifts made by fine artists. Each year, FVAC celebrates Candlelight season which is a series of festive events beginning with an opening on November, 22, 2013 at 5:00-9:00pm. 

 Bill Manocchio

This year, the studio artists are hosting a delightful Tea Room on the second floor in studio 6B with an exhibit of small works displayed and available for purchase. 

Farmington Valley Arts Center Kicks off The Holiday Season With Open Artist Studios    

In a addition to previewing a sample of the studio artist's work in the Tea Room, you can also stroll two floors of professional  artist studios and visit directly with the artists. You will get a chance to see paintings, pastels, monotypes, sculpture, textiles, photography, jewelry and more. As a tradition each artist studio will also have complimentary holiday refreshments.  

Second Floor FVAC Artist Studios Open 

 Danielle Langsford

1B Candace Abbott        
1B Annette Baser           
2B Claire Fish                 
3B Danielle Langford    
4B Susan Brereton         
5B Brion Johnson           
6B Tea Room                   
7B Melissa Meredith        
8B Lisa Ludwig                
9B C. Dianne Zweig        
10B Pia Sjolin 
10B Deborah Velasquez 
11B Jan Bennett                   
             

Kathy Goff

First Floor Artist Studios Open

2A Ginny August   The Pottery Spectrum
2A Betsy Gardiner The Pottery Specturm
4A Melisssa Croghan
6A Bill Manocchio
7A Mary Steele
8A Kathy Goff
9A Fran Hoffnagle
11A James Brunelle

The Esther Drezner Artisan Holiday Gallery

In the Esther Drezner Gallery and Gift Shop, on the first floors you will find wearable art, fine crafted jewelry, photography, functional pottery and ceramics, hand painted silk scarves, Judaica by Gary Rosenthal, original artwork, home decor, glassware and more. Under the direction of Sandy Buerkler, a new gift shop manager this holiday season, the Drezner GIft Gallery has a new look and new artisans. 

Sculpture and  
Mixed Media Exhibit In The Fisher Gallery
  
Be Sure To See The Kinetic Mobile Sculpture By Robin Protz

Sandy, originally from Switzerland has added a very special touch to the Drezner gallery, one of two galleries at FVAC. In the larger Fisher Gallery you will find a sculpture show which surrounds a magnificient shimmery kinetic mobile sculpture by artist Robin Protz. This installation is a must see for both adults and children. Mixed media artwork by artists is also on display. 
This year visit a lovely Tea Room on the second floor with a gallery of small works by FVAC artists in additon to visiting all the other artist open studios (two floors) .

MAKE A HOLIDAY GIFT! —OVERVIEW OF WORKSHOPS — 10 AM-12 NOON 1 PM – 3 PM  visit   http://artsfvac.org/37th-annual-candlelight-opening/ 

  
For more information visit  http://artsfvac.org/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists
community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link:

Shop Handmade For The Holidays at The Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, CT

My Idea Of Holiday Shopping Is To Buy Handmade Fine Artisan Crafted Gifts and Art at The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT  

Tis the seasosn for holiday shopping....and FVAC Candlelight Celebration - Opening November 22, 2013

Tis the season for holiday shopping......I went to get my mail yesterday out of my mailbox and I thought I had just picked up the delivery for the whole neighborhood. Nope...it was all for me... a pile of holiday catalogs and flyers from retailers.

 Shop Handmade: Be Artsy 

I made two piles for the catalogs... keep and toss (or collage). In the keep pile were mostly home decor catalogs which I like to browse through to see what colors and styles are being promoted this season. Do I actually go running to the mall to buy something I saw in a catalog.....nope! I'm more apt to get ideas from catalogs rather than prompted to go shopping to the mall.

Where To Shop For Artisan Crafted Holiday Gifts and Art In Connecticut

My idea of holiday gift giving is to shop handmade. I prefer artisan crafted ceramics, textiles, jewelry, home decor wearable art etc.  I'm lucky to have a beautiful art studio at The Farmington Valley Arts Center  (FVAC) in Avon, CT because shopping for the holidays is simple for me, I just have to  go down to the first floor and shop at our fabulous Esther Drezner Gallery and Holiday Gift shop.  (This year Chanukah is on Thanksgiving...yikes!).

Visit 20 Artist Studios And A Tea Room  

The FVAC  complex which boasts 20 artist studios, two galleries and classroom space has also been known for carrying wonderful gifts made by fine artists.  This year visit a lovely Tea Room on the second floor with a gallery of small works by FVAC artists in additon to visiting all the other artist open studios (two floors) with lots of art, sculpture, textiles etc.


The Farmington Valley Artisan Holiday Gift Shop Has A Brand New Look 

Out gift shop at The Farmington Valley Arts Center has had a brand new look this year with a very talented manager, Sandy who has acquired objets d' art from regional and national artisans. Keeping all budgets in mind, Sandy has been very successful at finding gorgeous jewelry, clothing, artwork, clocks, glassware. ceramics, pottery, giftware, Judaica by Gary Rosenthal and others and more which will appeal to holiday shoppers.

Before I forget......be sure to visit The Fisher Gallery (larger of the two galleries at FVAC) for a spectacular SURPRISE......

 For more information visit: http://artsfvac.org/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists