Creative Industries Report 2011

If you've ever pondered the relationship between art and the economy, you may be pleasantly surprised to hear that, as of January 2011, there are 7,788 arts-related businesses in Alabama, employing close to 30,000 people (and this number hardly begins to account for all of the independent artists in the state)! 1, 339 of those businesses are in District 5 alone, employing over 5,000 people. To view the entire report, please visit the login page on Americans for the Arts.

[A big thank you to Tracey Sykes Chaplin and the HAAE for bringing this report to the attention of the Huntsville Art Blog!]

Classes this weekend at 16 Main

This weekend at 16 Main we have a few more of the

"12 Gifts of Christmas" classes!

We will be starting out on Friday night with a children's class from 6-8pm. This is a time for the little ones to make something special for their parents....so we can't show you the picture ;)

Cost: $25

On Saturday at 2pm we have a fun class for the adults! Come and enjoy a hot cup of coffee for yourself and a Cappuccino for your canvas.

It's a great way to spend the afternoon with a few friends ;)

Cost:$35

 

Gallery Tour this Thursday Night from 5-9pm

Holiday Open House- 5 Artists

Dear Friends,

We are having an open house the first weekend in December at my house.

We would love for you to stop in and see the work and have a bit of cheer.

Participating Artists:
Scott Akridge
Jennie Couch
Cara Fuller
Monte McKnight
Missy Watkins Woods

Hope to see you soon,

Jennie Couch jencouch@gmail.com

A toast to public art: Huntsville Hosts SPACES Sculptors For Free Public Events December 9 and 10, 2011

A toast to public art: Huntsville Hosts SPACES Sculptors For Free Public Events on December 9 and 10, 2011

On December 9th and 10th 2011, The Arts Council, Inc. will host nationally recognized sculptors Austin Collins and Craig Wedderspoon for a series of special events. This is a collaborative effort to raise awareness of public art including the eleven sculptures currently on the UA Huntsville campus and the thirteen sculptures located in downtown Huntsville. UA Huntsville is one of five developers of the SPACES Biennial Sculpture Trail – a project designed to engage and enliven the Huntsville/Madison County community through a large-scale public art installation.

Father Austin I. Collins, CSC, is a professor of sculpture in the Department of Art, Art History and Design at the University of Notre Dame. Collins holds a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame, he completed additional art studies at the University of California at Berkeley, and received a MFA in sculpture from Claremont Graduate University; Collins also holds a M.Div. from the Graduate Theological Union. Collins’s area of practice includes public art, large outdoor sculpture, installation art and liturgical art. Collins has had over 130 exhibitions and his work is included in 40 private and public collections.

Craig Wedderspoon joined the University of Alabama Department of Art and Art History in the fall of 1999 where he now serves as Associate Professor of Sculpture. As a sculptor, Craig specializes in metal and wood fabrication, and works in a variety of scales for both indoor and outdoor, permanent and temporary installations and exhibitions. His sculpture has been exhibited throughout the country and internationally in exhibits in China and Turkey. Wedderspoon and Collins both have two sculptures on display in Huntsville through August 2012 as part of the SPACES Biennial Sculpture Trail.

As a professional sculptor and current board member of The Arts Council, Glenn Dasher, UA Huntsville’s Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, is eager to welcome the public to the December 9 and 10 events. Dasher states, “The 25 sculptures included in the SPACES Biennial Sculpture Trail have been part of our community for nearly a year now, and we’re happy that these sculptures have prompted both residents and tourists to engage with their environment in new and different ways. On December 9th and 10th, the community can learn more about the artistic intent and process of two of our SPACES sculptors, Father Austin Collins and Craig Wedderspoon, as Huntsville welcomes these nationally and internationally recognized artists to Huntsville.”

December 9, 2011 Artist Talk and Tour at UAHuntsville

When: Friday, December 9, 2011

10:00 am – Artist Talk
11:30 am – Walking Tour

What: Artist Talk & Walking Tour with Austin Collins & Craig Wedderspoon

Where: UA Huntsville Campus, Wilson Hall 168

Who: This event is FREE and open to the public

December 10, 2011 Artist Talk and Tour in Downtown Huntsville

When: Saturday, December 10, 2011

9:00 am – Toast to Public Art and Artist Talk
10:00 am – Walking Tour

What: Champagne Toast to public art sponsored by Adair Refinishing followed by Artist Talk & Walking Tour with Austin Collins & Craig Wedderspoon

Where: Cotton Row Restaurant, 100 South Side Square Downtown Huntsville

Who: This event is FREE and open to the public.

Further information at (256) 519-ARTS (2787).

Artist Link Added: Rayna Battle

We are delighted to add Rayna Battle's website to the Huntsville Art Blog Artists Links:

http://raynaherrayaart.blogspot.com/

Rebecca’s Cottage – Christmas Open House, Saturday, December 3rd, noon – 6 pm

Rebecca’s Cottage – Christmas Open House


Saturday, December 3rd, noon – 6 pm

There are many families in our area who don’t have enough food and need our help. Thank you so much to those of you who brought food contributions already. There’s more we can still do to donate.

Bring a canned or non-perishable food item and receive 10% off any item. Bring multiple cans, etc. and get 10% off additional items. All donations will go to the North Alabama Food Bank.

Shop for the newest Christmas items and gourmet food and

check out the Fall SALE and clearance items.

Come to the Rebecca’s Cottage Christmas Open House and see the latest hand-painted unique glassware and Christmas ornaments, art, gift baskets, home decor and more! Sample some of our wassail and gourmet food and, of course, enter your name in our door prize drawing. Be sure to come and get a special one-of-a-kind Christmas or birthday gift or just treat yourself to something special! As always, custom orders are welcome.

Christmas Open House…..When: Saturday, December 3rd, noon to 6 pm

Where: Rebecca’s Cottage Art Studio - 114 Woods End Road, Huntsville, just off Indian Creek Road in Monrovia

The Art Studio is located at 114 Woods End Road, just behind the house, down the driveway on the right.

Email Susan at rebeccascottage@knology.net for more info or directions.
Hope to see you soon! If you haven’t made it out to the studio yet, then NOW is the time to visit! Check out the website at http://www.rebeccascottageonline.com/. A few examples of new glassware are attached!

*Due to the high cost of processing credit cards, we accept only checks or cash.

Hope to see you soon!!
Susan Steinhauser – Owner/Artist
Rebecca’s Cottage
http://www.rebeccascottageonline.com/

Happy Thanksgiving! Cornhusk Pilgrims and Indians

Indian Camp Creek Handcrafts: Cornhusk Sculptures by Ellen S. Goode

Cornhusk Sculptures by Ellen S. Goode

"Pilgrim's Bounty" and "Pilgrim's Harvest Turkey" by Ellen Goode

Cornhusk, sheep wool hair, handmade clay pumpkins

"Native Harvest" and "Native Bounty" by Ellen Goode

Cornhusk, sheep wool hair, pheasant feathers, gourd vessel, handmade clay vegetables, rock, clay and glass beads

Indian Camp Creek Handcrafts: Cornhusk Sculptures by Ellen S. Goode, Florence, AL (256) 766-8184

Watch for next month: The Nativity Scene

Winter Art Classes at the Huntsville Museum of Art

Warm Up Your Creative Spirit

Join us by taking an art class today!The Huntsville Museum of Art’s Museum Academy will offer art classes for children age 3 through eighth grade in ceramics, drawing, and painting. Classes will include drawing, painting, and ceramics. Other classes include Winter Wonderland, “COOL” Creatures, Cartooning, Easel Painting, Awesome Animals for Parent and Child, Studio Art Adventures: Got Art? , Be MY Valentine, and Go Figure, and Art for Homeschooled Students Program.
High school and adult students can enjoy classes in ceramics, acrylic and oil painting, egg tempera painting, stained glass, and wire and bead jewelry, watercolor and printmaking.

Winter classes begin the week of January 9, 2012 and run through early March 2012.

Register Online at http://www.hsvmuseum.org/museum-academy/ or call 256-535-4350 x222. All classes will held at the Huntsville Museum of Art in the Museum Academy classrooms.

 Laura E. Smith
Museum Academy Director
Huntsville Museum of Art
300 Church Street South
Huntsville, AL 35801 USA
256.535.4350 ext. 222
http://www.blogger.com/lsmith@hsvmuseum.org
http://www.hsvmuseum.org/

Huntsville Art League: Collector's Draw Fundraiser

Tickets for this year's Collector's Draw go on sale Friday!


What is Collector's Draw?

Each year, the Huntsville Art League has a major fundraising event called Collector’s Draw. This has been a Huntsville tradition going back over 20 years.

The kickoff is in October, when Huntsville Art League does a "Call for Art" to area artists. Artists donate works of art valued at $200-$350 or more. Starting on Thanksgiving, tickets are sold to the community for $125. Many people make it a tradition to buy tickets as Christmas gifts for friends and family.

Huntsville Art League continues to collect artwork (usually well over 100 pieces) through the end of the year, and begins to put it up for display in January. In early February, Huntsville Art League hosts a great Reception for the ticket holders, which gives them the opportunity to spend time with the art, and do a "wish list" of their favorites. We are calling for the best art this year by offering the "Alabama Heritage Homes Grand Prize" of $1000 to the top artist!

In mid-February, Huntsville Art League moves all the art to the Von Braun Center, for "The Draw". This event attracts over 200 ticket holders and their guests, and is "MC'd" by Steve Johnson of WHNT. One by one, Steve picks tickets at random. The first ticket chosen has their pick from all the art. The second person chosen gets their pick from the remaining art, etc.

We usually sell around 100 tickets, and collect at least a half dozen pieces more than the ticket sales. Everyone goes home with a piece; and even the last person has something to choose from. Due to the variations in taste, most people go home with one of their top 3 picks! This is a fun event that brings patrons back year after year. Don't miss it!

Collector's Draw Dates:

Nov. 25, 2011 Tickets go on sale
Jan. 2, 2012 Art begins to arrive
Feb. 4, 2012 Preview Reception
Feb. 19, 2012 Collector's Draw at VBC

The Huntsville Art League
Gallery and Studios
3005 L & N Drive Mo - Fr
Huntsville, AL 35801
Phone: (256) 534 - 3860
http://www.huntsvilleartleague.org/
mail@huntsvilleartleague.org

Huntsville Museum of Art: Connections: Marilyn Murphy/Bob Trotman Exhibit

 The Cake Lady by Bob Trotman, copyright

The Celebration by Marilyn aMurphy, copyright

Huntsville Museum of Art Exhibit

Connections: Marilyn Murphy/Bob Trotman

December 4, 2011 – March 18, 2012

The Huntsville Museum of Art is pleased to present the first in a new series of recurring exhibitions focused on contemporary art with shared sensibilities. Connections: Marilyn Murphy/Bob Trotman will feature two critically acclaimed artists who, although working with different media, both convey a sense of dislocation and loss in their works. Their art pieces focus on retro-attired figures who are caught in unusual circumstances.

Sunday, Dec. 4, a Gallery Walk with the Artists at 2 p.m.

-----------------------------

Stephanie Kelley, APR
Communications Manager
Huntsville Museum of Art
256-535-4350 x219
skelley@hsvmuseum.org
http://www.hsvmuseum.org/

Link Added: Green Pea Press

We are delighted to add Green Pea Press the Lowe Mill printmakers collective to the Art Association links on the Huntsville Art Blog. Please visit http://greenpeapress.com/ to find out more! 


Green Pea Press

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

2211 Seminole Drive, Studio 122

Huntsville, AL 35805

(256) 679-7288

greenpeapress.com

Facebook: Green Pea Press

Twitter: @GreenPeaPress

Type Truck at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment: try your hand at pulling a print or two!

Art News from Rachel Lackey at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Hello,

I am excited to announce the upcoming visit of Kyle Durrie and her Moveable Type Truck at Green Pea Press!

Kyle is touring the United States in an old bread truck that she converted to a mobile letterpress print shop with funding from a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign. Her mission is to spread the love of letterpress and all things printmaking with the public at large--our mission here at Green Pea Press, too!

We are delighted to host the Type Truck on Friday, December 2, 2011. Members of the public are encouraged to come by Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment between 4-7pm to try their hands at pulling a print or two! This event is free and open to all ages.

For more information please contact Rachel Lackey at rachel@greenpeapress.com. I hope you will help us spread the word about this fantastic project!

Thank you,

Rachel Lackey
Manager
Green Pea Press
2211 Seminole Drive, Studio 122
Huntsville, AL 35805
(256) 679-7288
greenpeapress.com
Facebook: Green Pea Press
Twitter: @GreenPeaPress

Huntsville Art Museum: Art with a Twist- Holiday Hand-painted Glass Ornaments

Inspired by the In Company with Angels: Seven Rediscovered Tiffany Windows exhibition

Join us for Art with a Twist, an exciting “paint and sip” class offered by the Huntsville Museum of Art. Bring your favorite bottle of wine or beverage and your closest friends and enjoy painting your very own masterpiece. Don’t worry if you have never painted before, you will enjoy step-by-step instructions from a fabulous teacher - AND you get to take your hand-painted glass ornaments home at the end of the class!

You must be 21+ to participate. All classes take place from 5:30 – 8 p.m. at the Museum. The cost of each class is $35 for Museum members and $45 for nonmembers, and all materials are included. Light refreshments will be served. Reserve your spot TODAY by registering online at www.hsvmuseum.org/programs/art-with-a-twist/ or contacting Lisa Roth, Museum Academy Assistant, lroth@hsvmuseum.org or 256-535-4350, ext. 215.

Thursday, December 8, 5:30-8 pm

Instructor: S. Renee Prasil
Holiday Hand-painted Glass Ornaments

------------------------------------------------

Laura E. Smith
Museum Academy Director
Huntsville Museum of Art
300 Church Street South
Huntsville, AL 35801 USA
256.535.4350 x222
lsmith@hsvmuseum.org
http://www.hsvmuseum.org/

Artist Link Added: Susan Clanton

"Ewe Want to go This Way?", by Susan Clanton, copyright

We are delighted to add Susan Clanton to the Huntsville Arts Blog's Artists Links. Please visit her website at:
http://susanclanton.com

Also, look for Susan's featured artist spot on the Huntsville Art Blog in the New Year.

Artist Link Added: Randy Wells

Artwork by Randy Wells, copyright

We are delighted to add local artist Randy Wells' website to the Huntsville Art Blog artist links. Please check out his artwork at: www.randywellsart.artspan.com

Randy invites you to explore the galleries of sketches and paintings. You’ll find Southern landscapes, garden scenes, European places, still lifes, Sonoma Valley vineyards, and more.

Also, look for Randy's featured artist spot in January 2012.

Rickie Higgins' Oil Painting Class- Stained Glass Window

The next oil painting class at The Magolia Room will be Tuesday, November 22nd, 6-9pm. Take time to relax before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! The subject will be a stained glass window of a European church painted on a 10x20 canvas. $55 per person. No experience needed. Sign up through email, Facebook, phone, or visit Trish at Trish Land on Moulton Street.


trish@trishland.com
256.686.1382

Rickie Higgins

http://www.higginsart.com/
higginsart@me.com

256.351.0112

19th Annual Gallery Tour to benefit Huntsville Alliance for Arts Education with Art Supplies

Join us for the 19th Annual Gallery Tour on December 1, 5-9pm, benefiting the Huntsville Alliance for Arts Education Art Supply Drive! Huntsville celebrates the fine arts with a tour of local galleries and the Huntsville Museum of Art. With your choice of locations and styles, this informal event showcases artists whose talents include painting, pottery, glass, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and wood working.


Art supply donations for local schools will be collected at each participating gallery. For an art supply wish list and tour map, find us on Facebook; Huntsville Gallery Tour.

http://gallerytour.org/

Featured Arts Community Leader: Tracey Sykes Chaplin

Interview By Christina Wegman

Quality arts education from an early age can be the key to healthier communities and better quality of life for all, and non-profit organizations like Huntsville's Alliance for Arts Education are working hard to ensure that art education remains accessible to the public. In this interview, Tracey Chaplin, Director of Research, Advocacy, and Policy for the HAAE and Manager of The Little Green Store on Monte Sano, has taken the time to tell the Huntsville Art Blog a bit more about her organization and her views on the importance of art. This year, the HAAE has sponsored Huntsville's 19th Annual Winter Gallery Tour, and will be taking up art supply donations to benefit area public schools.

1. Why do you think art is important for communities?

When a city has a thriving arts community, research shows us that several benefits will be realized. This includes economic benefits, educational benefits, and an increased connectivity between community members. But I don’t think it stops there. I see the access to the arts as a social justice issue. Every person should have the right to experience the arts. Not only do the arts provide an effective avenue for learning, but participation in the arts allows community members to share a common experience with each other. The opportunity to empower your creative voice as an individual with the support of your community has, and continues to, shape civilization.

2. How did you become involved in the arts? What is your favorite thing about working in this field?

As an artist myself, I have always been involved in the arts. For several years, I
worked as a full-time muralist. It was during this time that I experienced a significant moment of change. Standing before the largest commissioned mural that I had ever painted, I realized that, for me, it wasn’t enough to bring art into one person’s home. Everyone deserves the chance to experience the arts. I felt that in order to truly make a difference, I wanted to join the fight; bringing art to the most vulnerable populations, and advocating for equal access to the arts.
My favorite thing about working in this field is seeing the effects of the arts on children. I work with students on the Autism spectrum through the HAAE SmART program, and watching the arts open windows of understanding is nothing short of amazing.

3. Tell us more about your role with HAAE. . . what sort of work do you do on a given day?

My role as the Director of research, advocacy, and policy for HAAE has the benefit of offering various hats. My responsibilities include researching local arts education policy, advocating on behalf of the arts to Congressional members, updating community members on legislation that will affect the arts, and designing arts programming that responds to the needs of Huntsville. But most importantly, my job is to respond to the needs of local arts organizations and arts educators.

4. What are your goals for HAAE? How about in your work at the Little Green Store?

My primary goal within HAAE is to further the arts in Huntsville through research, advocacy, and policy. HAAE supports programs and policies that promote arts education and art therapy. This means connecting people to information, resources, and advocacy outlets, developing programs that increase access to the arts, and supporting the work of existing organizations and educators.

The Little Green Store is an eco-friendly gallery, so we feature artists from around the world who have responsible practices in addition to local and regional artists. My work at the Little Green Store allows me to push the boundaries of the role of art. While the aesthetic value of art is without question, art can also have value in terms of economic empowerment, fair trading policies, and environmentally responsible practices. My goal for the Little Green Store is to increase awareness of the Green/Fair Trade option within the art realm. You can enjoy
phenomenal art and not have to sacrifice the environment.

5. How can Huntsvillians become more involved with HAAE?

Community members can sign up for legislative updates, attend workshops, join our local advocacy campaign, and even join us on the hill to advocate for the arts. Most importantly, if you see an arts education need, share it with us. HAAE is here to help community members find solutions in the arts. Go to our website, www.artislearning.com for more information. Or, you can email me at tchaplin.haae@gmail.com.
6. Do you have any advice that you would like to give to artists and/or art educators?

Be informed, and use your voice. Know which policies and legislation have an impact on the arts. Voice your concerns and support for the arts to our representatives. Figure out why the arts are valuable to you, and be able to express that sentiment effectively. Most of all, know that you are appreciated. Hang in there!

7. Finally, what do you think about Huntsville's art scene? Is there anything you would like to change about it?

The growth of Huntsville’s art scene is exciting. It has come a long way in the past 5 years or so. Although, I wish there was more of a collaborative effort to protect the arts. Every area of the arts is related, and should share a common goal of promoting, protecting, and elevating the arts. Believe it or not, an individual artist is affected by the lack of funding for public arts education. We are all connected in this effort.

Call for Art Donation to benefit Tornado hit Phil Campbell, AL: The Civitan Club & City Park and Recreation

Repost with added info:

The Silent Auction has been set for December 10 at the Marriott in Florence, Alabama.

Sincerely,

Bruce Forman, President Phil Campbell Alabama, Retired Air Force
256-668-4617

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Posted Oct. 28, 2011
Jonna Chizik gave me the idea about contacting artist in the area to see if they would help contribute to a silent auction that we are having to raise money for the project listed below. Anything that you might be able to do would be great! Thank you for your time!

My name is Bruce Forman from the Civitan Club in Phil Campbell Alabama a non profit organization. As you know we were hit by the tornado in April killing 26 people in our town of 1000 people. The Civitan Club and the City Park and Recreation are trying to raise enough money to put up a memorial along with a park for those who lost their lives. We have opened a fund at CB&S bank called P C Civitan Memorial Fund. ALL proceeds go to this memorial and park. Right now our local children do not have a park at all to go to. We lost over 100 homes, our high school, and damaged most of our downtown. I know you do a lot of charity work. I've always been told it doesn't hurt to ask, all people can do is say no. People can go to any local CB&S bank and give to the fund or they can mail a check to CB&S Bank, 3571 Broad Street, PO Box 220, Phil Campbell, AL 35581. Thank you for anything that you can do and God Bless!

Just to let you know how hard I’m working on this. Within our club we have raised $750 for the memorial here in Phil Campbell, this is just club members donating. I have been interviewed by Channel 31, and Channel 48 news, have had articles in the Haleyville newspaper, and coming out this weekend the Franklin County Times. Kurt Warner, a Super Bowl MVP is going to mail us some items to auction off as is Alan Jackson, Country Singer, the Marriott is sending a 2 night stay and meal in the needle from Florence, Nick Saban, Alabama Football Coach has sent us a signed football, Lowe’s out of Muscle Shoals is going to do the landscaping for us. Alabama Power is giving $1000, Senator Bedford is giving $2000. Leoma Granite is donating the memorial itself so we are using the money for the fountain and playground. Our goal is $40,000.

Bruce Forman, President Phil Campbell Civitan, Retired Air Force
256-668-4617

We have a facebook page also:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Phil-Campbell-Memorial/288506277832849

Gokden Alpman Matthews Exhibition at Lowe Mill Nov. 18

Volunteers Needed for Panoply 2012!

VOLUNTEERING AT PANOPLY

Save the date and volunteer for Panoply on April 27 - 29, 2012!

We are pleased to announce our 30th year to produce Panoply Arts Festival and would like to extend you an opportunity to become involved.  We are currently recruiting volunteers from the Huntsville/Madison County area, and in spring 2012 over 1,000 shift volunteers are needed at the festival in Big Spring International Park. There's a role for every volunteer at Panoply, whether it's a leadership position as a committee chairman or a four-hour activity volunteer during the festival. This is a great opportunity to help support the arts in our community.

This year it is easier than ever to sign-up! You can go to our website and fill out the application HERE. We have an individual volunteer form or group sign-up form available for your convenience.

We would also appreciate your help in spreading the word!

If you have any questions, please give me a call at 256-519-2787. Thank you very much for your consideration!

Gina Hurst
Member & Volunteer Services Manager

700 Monroe Street, Suite 2

Huntsville, AL. 35801
(p) 256-519-2787
(F) 256-533-3811
ghurst@artshuntsville.org
http://www.artshuntsville.org/

Art News from Earth Spin and Fire- Local Ceramics Education Studio

Art News from local ceramics artist, David Edwards:

Earth Spin and Fire is your local ceramics education studio. We offer classes, studio time, firing services and special clay events. Our name isn't the only thing reinvented. By the new year, we hope to have an entirely revamped studio and lots more to do at an affordable price.


Earth Spin and Fire
Ceramics Studio
8006 Old Madison Pike Suite 15
Madison, Al 35758
tvcag.info@gmail.com

November Classes

Kids Classes

Wild Things!: Using basic handbuilding techniques (pinch, coil, slab) students will create their own animal sculptures! Students encouraged to bring pictures of animals and their imaginations. w/ S. Renee Prasil

Home School: Wednesdays - Nov. 29, Dec. 7, 14 @ 10 AM -12 PM

After School: Thursdays - Dec. 1, 8, 15 @ 5-7 PM

Cost $100 - All supplies included

Regular Classes

Beginning Handbuilding:

Come learn all the basic techniques not done on the pottery wheel. This project oriented class will give you experience with coiling, pinching, slabbing, sculpting, and carving your own clay masterpieces. No experience needed. w/Berry Allen

Monday and Wednesday nights - Nov. 14, 16, 28, 30, Dec. 5, 7, 12, 14 @ 6:30-8:30PM

Cost $200 - Clay not included.

Workshops

Decorative Bottle Caddy: Make a decorative caddy/chiller for your favorite large bottled drink. Bring a cardboard tube 2 inches wider than the bottle you'd like to make the caddy for and at least 8-10 inches tall. Also bring your own... ideas and inspiration... yeah that's the word. No experience needed. w/Martha Marks

Make on Nov. 19 & Glaze on Dec. 3 @ 10 AM for both

Cost $45 - All supplies included.

Crosses & Candle Holders: Learn to make your own decorative crosses and candle holders with simple handbuilding techniques. Perfect as gifts! No experience needed. w/Martha Marks

Make on Dec. 1 & Glaze on Dec. @ 8 - 6 PM for both

Cost $45 - All supplies included.

Holiday One Shots: Come make a variety of seasonal and holiday projects with Paul Wieland. Two options based on your time or how much you'd like to spend. Two days of making plus one of glazing for $50 or one day of making and one of glazing for $30. No experience needed. All ages welcome.

Make on Dec. 4 and/or 11 - Glaze on Dec. 18 @ 3:30PM all days.

Cost $30 for 2 day workshop or $50 for 3 day workshop - All supplies included.

Teapots: Come learn a couple of different ways to make teapots with throwing and handbuilding. w/Greg Datcher. Some clay experience preferred.

Make on Dec. 6 & Glaze on Dec. 13 @ 6:30-8:30 PM

Cost $50 - All supplies included.

Basketcase: Make a decorative and useful small to medium sized basket with ropes of clay. No experience needed. Bring your own bowl (no bigger than 12" across) to use as a mold. w/David Edwards

Make on Nov. 18 & Glaze on Dec. 9. @ 6:30-8:30 PM

Cost $40 - All supplies included, except bowl for mold.

Yo' Gift In A Box, Baby: Learn to use clay geometrically while making a small decorative box. Useful for keys, jewelry, cell phones, gift cards, other stuff... No experience needed. Bring an exacto blade. w/David Edwards

Make on Dec. 2 & Glaze on Dec. 16 @ 6:30-8:30 PM

Cost $50 - All supplies included, except exacto blade or SNL skits.

Feature Your Artwork On Creative Arts Blog- Open Invitation

Art News from Kathie Depew, local artist:

I just started a new blog site for the Creative Arts (Create! with Cotton Ridge Designs, LLC - http://cottonridgellc.com/) to promote artists!

Create! with Cotton Ridge Designs, LLC is a free forum for creative artists to share their work, experiences and techniques. Would you like to inspire fellow artists and crafters, while promoting your work? Consider submitting an article to this site about you, your work and field of interest. Some ideas for articles are below. In all articles, please include photos, your contact information, web site and upcoming events (shows, classes etc.) that you’d like to promote.

Please let me know if you are interested in submitting a brief article about your art or craft. crdpottery@bellsouth.net This is a free opportunity!

Kathie Depew
crdpottery@bellsouth.net
Create! with Cotton Ridge Designs, LLC
Share Your Knowledge and Inspire Creativity - A Forum For The Creative Arts
http://cottonridgellc.com/
Feature Your Work On This Site: http://cottonridgellc.com/

Join The Arts Council!

Art News from Gina Hurst:

I have some art news to pass along. I am the new Member and Volunteer Services Manager at The Arts Council. I would like to invite you all to join The Arts Council!

Madison County is home to a vibrant arts and cultural community, and The Arts Council works to support and promote the work of more than 100 member arts organizations and individual artists. The Arts Council’s Arts Assembly members represents the very best of Huntsville music, dance, theatre, film and visual, literary, communications and multidisciplinary arts and culture.

Arts Assembly members benefit from monthly membership meetings, networking opportunities, affinity groups and technical assistance, posting events on The Arts Council’s website calendar, listing in the Arts Directory on the website, listing in the Arts Education Resource Guide which is distributed to teachers in grades K-12 and posted on-line, receipt of TAC’s e-newsletter, guest speaker events, job postings and much more. Throughout the year, The Arts Council also offers targeted workshops for Assembly members focusing on topics such as publicity, copyright and art law, funding, business development for individual artists, etc.

If this interests you, we would love for you to join and help advance the arts in the Tennessee Valley! To become a member, you can join on-line through our website by following this link: http://www.artshuntsville.org/index.php?option=com_acctexp&task=subscribe

I hope you will consider joining and enjoy the benefits of membership! Gina

Gina Hurst
Member and Volunteer Services Manager

700 Monroe Street, Suite 2

Huntsville, AL. 35801
(P) 256-519-2787
(F) 256-533-3811
ghurst@artshuntsville.org
http://www.artshuntsville.org/

Gina Hurst joins The Arts Council as the new Member and Volunteer Services Manager

Gina Hurst joined The Arts Council, Inc. in October 2011 as Member and Volunteer Services Manager, where she serves to provide resources and offer activities to members and volunteers. Gina has over 25 years of experience in art gallery management, sales and consulting. She also serves on several committees and boards. Her passion and goal is to be an effective promoter of the arts and to expand art awareness in our community. Gina is currently the volunteer Director of Ascribing Artists ministry.

For more information about The Arts Council's Membership and Volunteer Services, please contact Gina at:


Gina Hurst
Member and Volunteer Services Manager

700 Monroe Street, Suite 2

Huntsville, AL. 35801
(P) 256-519-2787
(F) 256-533-3811
ghurst@artshuntsville.org
http://www.artshuntsville.org/

Earth, Spin and Fire- formerly the Tennessee Valley Ceramic Art Guild

Art News from Go! Sara Cure, HSV Times:

Check out Earth, Spin and Fire – formerly the Tennessee Valley Ceramic Art Guild – at 8006 Old Madison Pike. This nonprofit ceramics education studio offers a plethora of classes and studio time for those seeking to learn the art and perhaps create some homemade gifts for the holiday season. Send them an email tvcag.info@gmail.com for more information. Also, check out the facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/TVCAG-Pottery-Studio/101772386539323

Huntsville Art League: Collector's Draw

Art News from Walt Shumacher, Huntsville Art League:

It's time to start thinking about Collector's Draw! This has been a Huntsville Tradition for the last 20 years.

This year we are rewarding the top artists in a big way!

• First Place will win $1,000
• Second Place will receive $500

We'd like to count on your contribution! To view the entry form please visit: http://www.huntsvilleartleague.org/CD.htm

Thanks from Huntsville Art League!
http://www.huntsvilleartleague.org/

Two New Websites and Facebook to Promote the Visual Arts in Huntsville

Art News from Walt Shumacher, Huntsville Art League:

We are excited to announce the creation of two new websites and a Facebook page to promote the visual arts in Huntsville!

http://gallerytour.org/ will have general info on our Huntsville Gallery Tour, including maps and links to participating galleries.

http://huntsvillegalleries.org/ will serve as a "Hub" linking all the local galleries participating in the Gallery Tour.

http://www.facebook.com/HuntsvilleGalleryTour will contain the latest info on the upcoming Gallery Tour.

We are hoping these websites will help Huntsville residents stay informed on what is happening at local art galleries!

Thanks!

Walt Schumacher

North Alabama Crafters Holiday Craft Expo, Sunday Nov. 13

For more information please visit: www.nacrafters.com

2011 Winter Gallery Tour

Dragonfly Gallery Exhibit Nov. 11, 5-8PM, Fayetteville, TN

"Rail Patterns" by Dana Brown, copyright

Art News from Dana Brown:

Hi, Thought I'd pass this along. Several local artists are featured. :)

Dragonfly Gallery
125 Main Avenue South
Fayetteville, TN

Friday, November 11, 5-8 pm

Dragonfly is a beautiful gallery on the Fayetteville's downtown square. Carl Gleghorn is working on 2" x 2" landscapes on mini canvas presented as ornaments. It's a short, pleasant drive to see wonderful art and gift ideas!

Featuring the work of:

Dana Brown

Sloane Bibb

Vicki Sawyer

Rachel Sherer

Carole Foret

Rachel Harwell

Mary Ann Pope

Neil Pope

Tom Church

Susan Church

Sam Barnett

Carl Gleghorn

Robin Roberts

Nancy Bradford

Katrina Weber

-----------------------

http://www.danabrown.net/

http://www.forrescue.net/

256.527.9731

Artist Link Added: Photographer, Bryan Hufalar

It is a delight to add photographer Bryan Hufalar's website to the Artists Links.


Please view his artwork at: http://www.bhphotoart.com/

or
http://www.facebook.com/bhphotoartgraphy
http://www.photoshopuser.com/members/portfolios/view/gallery/1279419

Help-Portrait- Giving back to our community

Calling Photographers, Makeup Artists, Hair Stylists, Volunteers- to help make someone picture perfect

Date: Saturday, December 10, 2011 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Venue: At Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
Location: 2211 Seminole Drive , Huntsville, AL
www.lowemill.net/

Help-Portrait is an international event where a community of photographers and other volunteers across the world (43 different countries), come together to use their skills to give back to their local community. Help-Portrait is first and foremost a movement. It is a shift in thinking about photography; an opportunity to give photos, not just take them.

Who needs pictures? Anyone who wouldn’t normally have access to or be able to afford professional photography. For starters…

•homeless
•orphans
•single moms and their kids
•single dads and their kids
•sick children
•sick parents
•the elderly
•veterans
•underprivileged families
•military families
•Tornado victims

click to view the Help-Portrait "Test Event" video



If you know of someone this would benefit or would like to volunteer your talent, please contact Candace Stough at candace@sojournhuntsville.org

"Birch Trees" Painting Class with Instructor Rickie Higgins, Nov. 8

The next oil painting class at The Magnolia Room in Decatur will be Birch Trees! Tuesday, November 8th at 6:00pm. $55 includes all supplies to paint your own masterpiece on a 16x20 canvas. Class size is limited, so sign up soon!


Sign up at Trish Land 256-686-1382

Email higginsart@me.com or trish@trishland.com

Thanks,

Rickie Higgins

http://www.higginsart.com/

Featured Artist: Teresa Batchelor

Teresa Batchelor

Teresa Batchelor ia local artist, growing up in New Market and currently lives in Madison.

　

I presently enjoy working in acrylics, pencil, color pencil　and ink. My artwork　very often takes a cue from my environment, especially in my paintings. Often I am inspired by　nature's colors　in the sky and trees. Many　pieces are directly from photos I have taken.　　Some of my work　has　a singular　theme on a clean background for a modern, sleek　simplicity.　Creating realistic depictions and dimension　often drives the nature of my work in pencil.　High contrast, black and white with clean lines　while working with ink　satisfies the graphic look I enjoy.　Works with patterns, shapes and　symbols combine　the whimsical.　These ink pieces, zentangles, can be personalized　with representation of the subject’s life.

　

My website is　

http://www.wix.com/tbatchelorartwork/gallery

Featured Artist: John Dersham

Pemiquid Light Maine-1986 by John Dersham, copyright

Fog in the Pines- Southern Mississippi 1988 by John Dersham, copyright

Yosemite Valley 6:00 a.m. Fog 1999 by John Dersham, copyright

Little River-Little River Canyon National Preserve 2010 by John Dersham, copyright

JOHN DERSHAM PRESENTS PHOTOGRAPHY OF A LIFETIME

 
Fort Payne, Ala. – For the past 50 years, John Dersham (http://www.johndersham.com/) has traveled the United States extensively in search of those timeless, beautiful settings that often go overlooked. His lifelong passion for black and white fine art photography began innocently enough when his father passed down his Kodak Brownie he received from an Eastman Kodak promotion in 1930 and after a long and distinguished background in photography and management, his passion continues today. His exhibit “Changing Moods – Fifty Years in Black and White” is currently on display at the Jacksonville State University Canyon Center at Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne, Ala. and he is currently on a speaking tour by the same title showing his work to organizations and photography clubs across the Southeast.

Dersham’s love for photography began in 1960 while using a Kodak Brownie. His parents quickly noticed his passion for photography and upgraded his equipment with a professional large format camera, a small darkroom with enlarger and a film developing tank. While in junior high school, Dersham joined the Mid Missouri Camera Club, whose members were made up of professors of photography from the famed photography and photojournalism school at the University of Missouri, and was mentored by noted photographers such as Roger Berg and Andy Tau who was at one time an active member in Ansel Adams F-64 Club. Dersham went on to study photography at Truman University and the University of Missouri where he also maintained an on-campus photo studio. He completed his university studies in 1972.

Soon after his university studies, Dersham entered into a profession at Eastman Kodak that would span 27 years. “During my Kodak years, I held nine management positions in four cities covering the northeast, southeast, and Midwest,” said Dersham. “During my travels by car or air, I took my equipment, even the large format equipment. I would get up pre-daylight and shoot till my first appointment, or I’d shoot late afternoon or night shots. I always found a way to shoot and I was out to perpetuate my fine art photography and nothing seemed to stop me.” In fact, midway through his career John received his Masters of Photography through special studies at Kodak and his work was used to decorate Kodak office buildings, factories and photo finishing plants nationwide.

Dersham’s work is all done in his darkroom and is produced to meet the highest archival standards. He uses double weight silver rich fiber based enlarging papers then uses toning and other preservation techniques that provide the finest detail and tonality with the longest possible longevity. “I print each negative until I have the best print I think I can make. If not, it goes in the recycle bin. In doing this I use the very best archival quality materials on the market, including processing standards that are known to produce the highest level of permanence. I put 100% into this work and cut no corners. I figured I have spent a lifetime producing this work so I might as well take the extra time and cost to do it to last for future generations to enjoy,” said Dersham.

John Dersham Photography specializes in rural, large cities, small towns, and wilderness with a majority of his work in black and white. Today, his photographs can be enjoyed as fine art. “Black and white photography lends itself to portraying moods. It has always been important in my work to create an image that is as special as the scene itself,” added Dersham. “The primary elements that contribute to making a particular image stand apart from others are the contributing elements to the scene, such as a special angle of light, rain, fog, mist, big beautiful clouds, dark rich blue sky, snow, ice, and most importantly, a well thought out composition and good technical discipline.”

A portion of his fine art photography may be viewed at http://www.johndersham.com/ or to inquire about speaking engagements or photography workshops, call 256.845.3957. To see the “Changing Moods – Fifty Years in Black and White” exhibit, visit the Jacksonville State University Canyon Center at Little River Canyon National Preserve located at 472 Alabama 35 in Fort Payne, Ala. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

John Dersham PHONE: 256.845.3957 EMAIL: mailto:jdersham@mindspring.com

Featured Artist: Kim Potter

 "Fire and Ice" by Kim Potter, copyright

 "Confetti" by Kim Potter, copyright

 "Fish Bowl" by Kim Potter, copyright

"Deep Blue Sea" by Kim Potter, copyright

Featured Artist Kim Potter

I blame my art addiction on my mother. At and early age she involved me in all kinds of arts and crafts. We emersed ourselves in every art and craft activity we could get our hands on from ceramics to macrame to needlecrafts. I've been trained in various mediums and art techniques over the years including painting, ceramics, carving terracotta, and many other art forms. I stumbled across mosaics because of my love for gardening. I wanted some art in my garden and decided to make some mosaic stepping stones. That was it - I was hooked. Now mosaics are definitely my medium of choice.

Tesserae are the small pieces used in mosaics such as tile, marble, and china. I use a wide variety of tesserae. The pieces most prevalent in my work are vitreous (glass) tiles, glass marbles, stained glass, ceramic tiles, mirror and porcelain. I’m easily bored which fosters my experimentation with various techniques, tesserae, and substrates. (Substrates are base materials to which the tesserae is adhered, such as concrete, glass, terracotta, or wood.) This makes my style ever changing.

Even though creating mosaics is food for my right brain, anyone who knows me will agree that I am also very left brained. Consequently, the mosaics that I create are deliberate and calculated. The process of creating a mosaic piece is multi-staged. Much time is spent on the design before the first tile is ever applied. The substrates are sealed before the mosaic is attached. After grouting and cleaning, each piece is sealed to repel water and protect against stains. These steps ensure that my pieces stay the way I intended for many years. Contrary to popular belief, only mosaics designated for outdoor use or indoor wet areas are waterproof. Make sure you know where your piece was intended to live.

Although the planning of each piece is a necessary evil to satisfy my left brain, my pieces inevitably take on a life of their own during their journey. They never end up exactly as planned, but always turn out exactly as they want to be. Each of them holds a place in my heart.

More information can be found on my website, http://www.kpmosaics.com/