Renaissance Art Journal

Last weekend I attended an art journal class inspired by the techniques of Jacqueline Sullivan and hosted by Terri Gauthier of Davison, Michigan. I had taken a similar class a few years ago when Jackie taught these modeling paste fundamentals herself, so when Terri offered a class of faux metal painting and book binding, I jumped at the chance to participate. If any one has the opportunity to take a class from Jacqueline, I would definitely encourage you to do so. Her art is amazing! Even though we watched and learned from Terri, no two journals colors were identical. Isn't it fun how that happens and no one's work is the same? I feel like my journal celebrates something mystical and needs to hold my treasured heritage family photos. Thank you, Terri, for hosting such a glamorous event. Your mouth watering homemade breakfast was a pleasure!

Art Doll Swap

What a fun exchange everyone had last month. It was my turn to pick a theme, and I chose "Little Girl Paper Dolls" as shown in a past SOMERSET LIFE magazine. We had an outline. It had to be a little girl, mounted on a wooden block, and was to have a back drop. I believe we all did some of our best work on this project. I chose an image from Paper Whimsy and named each child with a Victorian name. Vicky used a photo of her daughter Natalie. Terri's girl had beautiful iridescent wings. Deb's work had a curtain like theater background, and Kim's image captured the essence of time. They are all just the sweetest things! Next month's assignment will have a leaf shape and an autumn theme. I wonder what our art group will create with only that thought. Hmmmm.

"Annabell" by Nancy Van Hoose

"Natalie" by Vikki Light

"Butterly Kisses" by Terri Gauthier

"Curtain Call" by Debra Abel

"Essence of Time" by Kimberly Baslock

November Recipe Card

There is something so innately comforting about a home-cooked meal--whether you're the cook or the fortunate recipient of the meal. Usually when my family gathers for the holidays, it has become a tradition for me to make this appetizer. Won ton wrappers make this snack really easy to put together. The wrappers look like flower petals or blossoms, creating a pretty cup to hold the spicy sausage and cheese mixture. This easy recipe is truly a culinary delight! The lovely two little girl image was shared through "Mind Wide Open" on a challenge hosted by Gail Schmidt.

Hand Knit Dish Cloths

At this time of year, I seem to focus my attention towards making handmade gifts for the holiday season. I look forward to being more productive, more creative, and making things for those who appreciate the value of a hand-knit or homemade gift. This past weekend, we made the journey up to Lake Superior where my mom and sister share that excitement of gift-making. My sister crochets like a mad woman whipping up practical yet beautiful potholders, toys, and felted handbags, while my mom paints wondrous Christmas ornaments, knits sweaters, afghans, and unique baby gifts. If any of you have seen the new SOMERSET STUDIO "ARTFUL BLOGGING" magazine this month, you can appreciate the love I have for this latest issue. It is very comforting to know that there are many artful spirits in this world. One article inspired me to knit up these raised box stitch dishcloths. Then I created a tag of a beautiful young woman from an image I received from my dear friend, Deb Abel. As I have been a knitter for over 50 years (has it been that long?), I quickly read Deb Andriulli's pattern and pulled out my needles. This pattern is easy yet impressive. I am peaceful now, sipping my cup of tea, dreaming of the next color to use.