michelle ward

report card

A+ for all the students!  I admit I was a bit disarmed by their quiet demeanor but it was early in the morning (7:30 a.m.).  There was hardly any feedback via expression when I first started talking.  But we got started with some easy exercises and before long they each found a groove and you could observe their claim on self-expression.  My only regret was that the day ended too soon!  I wish I was back there today, continuing the mission of sharing the enthusiasm for making cool stuff together.

 

I am grateful to Mrs. Lentini-Pombrio and Mrs. Amme for the invitation to be the class tour guide into Altered Books.  Check out how cool these art teachers are - back in March they were on a photo campaign.  This is a very small sampling of the photos collected around school that they presented on a massive set of boards....ART SAVES!  HCIT?

 So many great comments have come in here, and by email, requesting the *handout* I mentioned for the class.  I think it's awesome there are so many artists who want to give it a try!  Give me a little time to wrap up some other deadlines (like getting the new rubber collection uploaded!!) and I will make it available.  I want to do it properly with downloadable text, images, and photographed samples so it may take me a while.  But I'm so psyched to do this.  I am HARDLY an expert, but I think I have put together a nice jumpstart into the artform and I'm more than happy to share it.  After it gets posted I was thinking it might be cool to take additional recommendations on page manipulations from YOU.  I could compile the tips into a part two.  Listen to me....I'm not even ready with part one yet.  *smacks head*

  

one hand tied.....

I'm lucky it's my left hand that is out-of-commission.  I would be so bummed and restless if it was my right.  And thankfully I can still type....although it's slow-going fixing typos.  Oh, what happened exactly?  Not sure.  Self-diagnosis is a re-injury of the wrist, x-rays Tuesday.

 
My week has been spent preparing for an altered book class. I've been invited to teach a special full day workshop at the high school.  Loved revisiting this art form.  Fun to think about introducing it to students who have never heard of it.  They have no clue what coolness they are about to step into ;) I made a handout covering nearly twenty techiques so if we don't get to them all they can continue the work on their own.  Class is Monday.  I'll let you know how we do.

Have a great weekend.

now and almost now

A reminder that registration for workshops at Valley Ridge begins Monday, December 7th at 9:00 am Central Standard Time.  Classes filled quickly last year so if you are interested be ready at the keyboard!

The two workshops I am offering:  Roll With It, and Parlor Tricks.

 
 

  

Out right now is Artists Cafe No. III from Stampington & Co.  They have revisited three of my articles from Somerset Studio, one is an interview I did of friend and favorite artist:  Julie Pearson. 

And in books - I'm pleased to announce I am in Lynne's book (in stock now at Amazon!) and Bee's book, due in February. 

And of course, I can't close without mentioning this: HIM's new single Heartkiller will be released December 8th (check itunes).  You can click over to their myspace for a listen tomorrow!   Album release date:  2/9/10
 

i spy.....

 

 

(for feed readers:  click through to see the graphics on this post)

The 2010 schedule for Valley Ridge is now up!  Nearly 40 workshops to choose from.  Several artists make their debut at VR this season including my friends Judy Wilkenfeld and Laurie Mika.  You'll find me there in September.  I've posted new buttons in the left sidebar that take you to pages (with class descriptions) on my site for each workshop.  Click on the words to take you to the Valley Ridge site for more information and registration which begins December 7th. 

i heart VRAS

Valley Ridge Art Studio, near Madison, Wisconsin.  I've said it before, it's the most magical place to experience ~ a very special venue for art workshops.  The schedule for 2010 goes live on Monday.  Registration takes place December 7th, 9:00 am (central standard time).  Here's a brand new video to get you excited and motivated to come visit next year.  Lots of fabulous workshops from a stellar line-up of instructors!  We heart Kathy and Bill.  We heart VRAS!!

 

Did you spy me, and my Mom?  Or yourself?  Can't you just visualize being there?!!

Sneak peeks of my workshops coming soon :)

commitment

Just reflecting on the past weekend....and I am feeling so fulfilled.  It's an amazing thing to have an idea, to visualize it, to nurture it, to explore it, and then finally, to share it.  Stairway to Heaven is a workshop concept I have lived with for over a year.  It's been like holding a secret.  I got to reveal it not once but twice to an awesome group of women.  Some were new-to-me friends, some were veteran favorites.  They ALL ROCKED.  It was thrilling to see them take on this project, each with their own flair.  As an instructor you commit yourself to presenting something new and fresh, and hope it takes hold and provides a platform for growth.  You endeavor to teach *process*, disguised as a *project*.  You put yourself out there, hoping that their greatest take-away is enthusiasm for creativity. 

I don't take it lightly that artists choose to spend their time and money on a workshop with me.  I consider it an honor that the time they set aside to commit to art is with me.  While I hope to fuel, or re-fuel them, they most definitely re-fuel me.  Their presence, their eagerness to work, and the results that follow offer me validation on many levels.  I am so grateful.

Unplanned, there was a word I latched onto and repeated during class:  commit.  It was the perfect prompt at the time, as I tried to encourage students to commit to a color palette, commit to a page shape and arrangement, to commit to adding content.  It was appropriate then, and when you think about it, it is the best way to continue moving forward as you build a book, or work on a painting or collage or whatever it is you do.  Small steps, small commitments, inform and direct the following steps, the following choices.  You make a decision and it opens up the possibilities to what happens next.  Mistakes may occur but that is where the real learning often takes place.  It is in making commitments that you evolve.

There were a few jokes about *fear of commitment* but it was all in fun.  I'm sure there were moments we could have asked to be *committed*.  They did commit big time by creating really wonderful, special, unique books.  They committed by making time for art and friendship, and by sharing in the creative process as we all learned things from one another.  That's what happens in workshops.  ESPECIALLY at Valley Ridge.  We all extend our thanks to Kathy and Bill for their commitment to providing this spectacular venue where magic takes place.  I'm certain there is fairy dust in the air.

How cool is that?  You see my cute little Mom?  She committed a weekend to join us in the fun! 

Right now I am committing time to wrap up my proposals for 2010 at VRAS.  I am psyched for the ideas that are channeling in.  I am giddy about going back next September.  The workshop schedule will be posted soon, I'll let you know when to hop over for a look.

Thank you ladies, for your commitment.  You have gifted me with energy and validation and satisfaction and fulfillment.  I am a lucky girl to have climbed the Stairway to Heaven with you.

  

*waves goodbye*

See you next week.
 

love metal *

I love old embossed metal.  Love the grungy shabby chippy remnants from past eras.  Check out these cool items from Annette.  Isn't she clever to take these relics and turn them into new pieces?  Discarded tin being repurposed....and they even come with hooks so they are ready to hang.  Her Etsy site is here:  CottageInTheSun. 

 

I have had this ceiling tin hanging in my studio for years as inspiration.  I just discovered it holds magnets!  HCIT?  (Ceramic rose magnets were found online....just can't remember where I got them!)  The items below it aren't old....they are probably from Michaels or TJ Maxx.  I can't resist affordable metal stuff.

I've been meaning to try embossing metal myself, but have never armed myself with the proper tools.  (Lisa is really good at it and steps way out of the box with her tools.)  Someday I will take the plunge over at Ten Seconds Studio and drop a wad on some supplies.  I did develop a class on making faux ceiling tiles from paper and paint that is in the files somewhere.  Here's the photo:

I never taught that class but I use the technique alot...in fact, here is a page from my Stairway to Heaven book (sneak peek):

Love faking out the embossed look with stuff I already have.  Sa-wooon!
 
 

  * the post title is the name of my favorite HIM album.  i crack myself up ;)

ready to climb

In ten days I'll be leaving for Madison....I'm almost done packing my supplies.  It's such a phenomenal experience to participate in an event at Valley Ridge Art Studio.  I feel so blessed to have this opportunity each year.  Next week we'll be climbing the Stairway to Heaven.  I've got so many ideas to share I feel like I'm going to burst.  Can't wait to unload all of them on my students! 

 

 

 

There are a few spots left if you want to come join the fun.  I've been asked if this class will be made available as a kit like my house book...not sure yet.  Stay tuned.

breaking news....

'Tis the season......for buying Stairways!  Wow, thanks for the validation today.  The workshop sold out this morning so Kathy invited me to double dip on the magic of Valley Ridge.  Second class is being offered on Thursday & Friday, October 8 & 9, 2009.  To register, CLICK HERE.  ($75 deposit holds your place.) 

   

confessions of a packrat

Do you tear off the used postage from your holiday cards every year like I do?  It's a habit I started years ago, and I'm happy to admit I have stashes of lovely stamps to use in my art.  I'll take yours if you don't want them.  Really.  Tear off the corner, and save it for me.  P.O.Box 73, Piscataway, NJ 08854

 

Tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. Central Standard Time, registration begins for the workshops at Valley Ridge.  It's the only place I have committed to teach at for next year.  If you are thinking of taking the class with me you might want to save your used postage, right now, and tuck it away until October.

    

special announcement

 

EDIT:  I've just been told the schedule won't go LIVE until Tuesday, Nov.18. 

Today, the Valley Ridge Art Studio site goes live with the schedule of classes for 2009.  Lots of terrific offerings for the year ahead.  I have spoken about this venue before (May '08, Oct '07 and Aug '05) - it really is the most magical place.   VRAS is in rural Wisconsin, near Madison.  The studio is fab - you get your own table, it is filled with light (and supplies!) ...the lunches are delicious, and the students that gather totally rock!  Kathy and Bill are the enthusiastic hosts who make the magic.  You will love them, you will love the place, you will count the days until you get to go back.  Go take a look at all the instructors and their workshops.  Treat yourself to a weekend of creativity.  Classes fill fast, as does the limited space to stay on the compound.  

Registration begins on December 15th, 9:00 A.M. Central Standard Time.

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN:  A fascination with architecture and a love of pattern spawned Michelle's interest in Byzantine imagery -- with the deep, rich colors found in the religious icons, shrines, and cathedrals and the recurring use of arches and domes. With a nod toward Byzantium, learn to paint papers using layers of repetitive motifs, then the use the papers to build a triptych book.

The structure will have its own architectural appeal and with a few simple steps (pun intended), we will add a pull-down stairway. When propped open, your book doubles as a shrine. We will manipulate the pages with cutouts and dimensional elements to create visual pathways across the pages, in addition to any content you want to incorporate. Using tools we make in class, each book will have its own personality.

Your book structure will be completed in the workshop, but you may find yourself continuing to add details in the following days at home with this program's provided kit including paper, templates, binding, embellishments, and tricks for making patterns. The color palette you work with will be your choice. Use a tapestry of jewel tones or work in the subtleties of neutrals like white and gold.

For more information, supply list, and registration fees, see www.valleyridgeartstudio.com

  

I know, it's still eleven months away....I'm counting....but the sign-up is only a month away.  Hope to see you there!  

Is the song playing in your head?  *grin*

what day is it?

This week was one of those this-feels-like-a-monday-on-wednesday AND this-feels-like-a-friday-on-wednesday.  At least today is Saturday and could sleep in, one of my favorite indulgences.  So here's a catch-up post so I can clear my head and the memory card on my camera.....

 

Another terrific weekend spent making cool stuff with old friends and new ones.  Kathy and Bill are The Best hosts and the additions they made to their compound are wonderful.  The weekend began with a delightful ride from the airport with new-friend-who-felt-like-an-old-friend-because-we-talked-and-talked-and-talked, Beth.  Fun to meet you in person Beth!  Mom drives to Valley Ridge each year from the Twin Cities so she can see hang out and try out the groovy things we like to do with paint.

Then we spent two days painting pages.  There's nothing quite like an extended workshop - to be able to set up camp and leave your stuff out for two days is really cool.  The artists made great stuff!  Great to see Judy, Bonnie, and Bernadette again.  And I got to give a hug to Tina and Marlynn - both are friends made online and met in person for the first time.  And it was delight to meet Kelley, Julia, Kaye, Michelle, Sue, Jennifer, Kathy, and the token dude, Gary.

And at VRAS they have a new community building not only for amazing lunches, but for a wine-and-cheese-or-soda happy hour.  I think we were all very happy - as in it was great to spend time together making art and making new friends.  For more photos of the weekend you can visit VRAS's album HERE.

EDIT:  OMG!  Look at my thumb and index finger on Kelley's shoulder!  It's covered in black spray paint.  What a riot.  Where were my gloves?

 

I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to teach at this wonderful place, and to have a classroom full of students who are eager to learn and play and made it so much fun.  It's so energizing to see creativity at work, and to be part of that.  And I'm grateful to my husband and kids - that they make it easy for me to get away, to be a full-time artist for a few days.  I'll be back in October 2009 and have already started inventing my class - can't wait! 

 

Since Shannon is still in the hospital I modified my return plans and caught a ride back to MN with Mom and Judy, and got to spend some time visiting with Mom and Dad, Shannon and her husband Andy, my Grandma, my cousins Kathy and Molly, and friends Virginia and Peggy.  So fab to see so many loved ones.  Whew!  Got alot in for less than 48 hours.  Shannon is doing much better and it was The Best to get to see her.  Keep your fingers crossed and your prayers coming in....hope she's out before her 40th birthday on the 17th.

Got home at midnight Tuesday, then headed out Wednesday afternoon for an MCR concert with Fallon and our friend Leci.  Home at 1 am.  Do you blame me for not knowing what day it was?

Twenty Crusades!  Phew!  I can hardly believe it.  Congrats to Sarah Harris from the U.K. for being the Top Hat Pick for No. 19.  I was late in getting No. 20 up but it's an easy one....plenty of time to try it before June 1st.  Come play! 

Wishing all you all a Happy Mother's Day!  I'm feeling so grateful to have time with my Mom this week, and to come home to three wonderful children.  I am so lucky!  Check this out, found in Sam's backpack:

Adorable!

Workshop

The classes are now posted at Valley Ridge Art Studio.  It's a stellar line-up once again.  As has been testified to here and on other blogs you probably visit, it's a remarkable experience to be at VR - highly recommended!  I'll be teaching a two-day painting and visual journaling workshop.  Hope to see you there!  It's my only commitment for 2008. 

Registration begins December 8. 

still buzzed

A weekend at Valley Ridge will leave you buzzing for a long time.  There is nothing like being in the midst of creative energy.  And there is nothing like Valley Ridge.  Imagine a picture perfect setting, gracious hosts, enthusiastic artists gathering from here and there, a light-filled dynamite studio (where each artist gets their own table), and two whole days appointed for making cool stuff.  Oh, and I'm not one to gush about food, but Kathy and Bill present the best lunches.  (How about that tomato and basil soup?  swooon!)  And fabulous dinners if you're the instructor!!  It's the ultimate destination.  Icing on the cake for this weekend:  Mom joined in the fun (again!)

Backstage Pass is a process class disguised as a project.  I like to teach process but most students like to leave with a project.  They made assemblages while simultaneously developing and recording ideas on pages of a journal.  I really wanted them to learn what a valuable tool your journal can be as you work on anything.  They totally got it.  They ROCKED! 

Look at these girls so hard at work.  Can you believe I didn't even play the music I brought?  It's usually a good ice-breaker to loosen up the room but this crowd didn't need it.  The studio was radiating with good vibrations and chatter, we didn't even get to the music.

Check out my Mom and her assemblage - filled with sentimental meaning and significant keepsakes.  And how about Debby with her groovy jeans?  This class wasn't about spray but it's such a big part of what I do right now that I had to share it.  We had a spray station outside where everyone got to try out the addictiveness of spray painting with stencils.  I had on my sprayed denim to show them how cool it is to paint on fabric.  So Debby hops off to the car for a spare pair of jeans and paints herself a souvenir.  See post below for my delinquent behavior on someone else's property. 

Kathy, proprietor of Valley Ridge, and resident fairy expert.  Goony face me, and Mom who drove form Minnesota for a visit.  She had also come two years ago and we made her take the class.   H.C.I.T.?

Apparently I had the goonface pose for the weekend.  Actually, you are supposed to lean forward a little so your double chin doesn't show....but I don't think it's required to bug out your eyes too.  Here we are with Judy, who you met earlier this year on my blog.  I credit this blog for becoming friends with Judy - she and Mom were travel buddies last weekend.  More H.C.I.T.  Aren't you glad I didn't pose with each student so you'd have to suffer through more cheesy mugs?

Here's another photos of the group taken from the other side of the final presentation table.  Great work gang!  It was a total gas.  Seeing old friends and making new ones.  Can't get much better.

And do you love when this happens?  I'm blathering away about something and before you know it there was an OOPS and a lesson to be learned.  Solving problems can teach us the best lessons.  Thats' why workshops can be so rewarding.  While we are working out details on our own pieces we see and hear the processes being tested and tried within the studio.  It's an environment where techniques and tricks are shared, materials too!  If you are on the fence about taking a workshop, fall on the side of YES!  And take one at Valley Ridge if you can.  They have a stellar line-up of instructors every year.

Thanks to Kathy for a great experience, and to all my students who rocked the art.  Fellow bloggers Sue Pieper and Andrew Borloz and Bernadette DeMoro  (who came from Texas!) and Xanthe Walker have posted about the weekend, and Lisa Cook will soon has too.  Go see! 

As if last weekend wasn't enough excitement......HIM in one week.  Squeeeeeeeee.

Workshop

Tomorrow registration for workshops at Valley Ridge Art Studio will begin.  If you have never been there it is a rare treat.  Kathy and Bill are the hosts for fabulous weekend classes all through the summer and fall outside of Madison, Wisconsin.  I was lucky enough to teach there in 2005.  Had a rockin' group of gals, and my mom even join in and got messy!  It is an experience I will never forget.  The line-up is stellar once again this year.  Thinking of making an artful getaway?  This is your place.

October 6&7 I will be teaching a new workshop:  Backstage Pass.  It's about using your art journal as a tool and a document as you progress through making art.  We'll be making assemblages while working in our journals.....the title of the class coming from the idea that what goes on behind the curtain is kinda like what happens in your journal if you use it as a tool while creating.  If you're interested check out the details at www.valleyridgeartstudio.com