Spotlight on OhPotato

Etsy Buy Handmade ohpotato

I've written here before about my endless quest for small and gorgeous pendants. For those that missed it, suffice it to say all the drop dead gorgeous oh-my-god-I-love-it-so-much pendants are about 2-2.5" in at least one direction. While is wonderful if you are into large jewelry. I am not. Anything over 1" starts looking HUGE. Now, I am sure that this is some sort of bizzare mental hang up and I could wear larger pendants just fine, but...I still like the tiny ones.

So stumbling into OhPotato one day, you will understand why I was convinced that these pendants were going to be huge. They were colorful, hand painted, and carefully detailed. They were dramatic! Fun! Painterly! So naturally they would be the size of small dinner plates. Imagine my ecstasy when I read the description and realized--there was a whole product line of one inch pendants! Hooray!

Jessie's work is a distinctly organic depiction of urban. The buildings bloom in fun and funky colors and hills and water often get more space than the "skylines" in the title. The thick outlines and exaggerated curves might call to mind cartoons if it weren't for the velvety deepth of the color. Even in very small spaces the colors are rich mappings from green to yellow to orange, never falling flat. The color doesn't simply fill the piece, it brings life into it.

The first image shows one of the small pendants that I was so happy to find. This particular pendant shows a glowing city separated from the viewer by a small hill. The hills glows in a rich light that suggest late afternoon, just before dusk. The sky above the cityscape glows bright blue and fades into a vintage dictionary page. The text mimics both clouds the haze of light and pollution found over large cities. Despite being a landscape, the cant of the buildings and the vibrancy of the colors makes this pendant appear joyful and alive--like the city is about to start dancing!



The second image shows what Jessie can do on a larger canvas. In the listing, she writes of the many lampposts that influenced this piece and I can think of several more literary lamp posts that immediately spring to mind. And that is the beauty of the piece. The sketchy quality of the lines and the lack of color on the buildings serves to emphasize only their lack of importance. It doesn't really matter which building is there, only that a building is there. It is the brilliance of the lamppost and the sky that captivated your attention. The drifting clouds, the soft glow of light. And it is because of that that this lamppost can be any lamppost. Any time, any place at all.



Aside from the teeny tiny pendants, which make me so very happy, OhPotato also carries a line of larger, 1.5 pendants made in a similar way. So for all you people out there who like those larger pendants, you can still own your very skyline pendant! The shop also carries several other prints and a line of absolutely wonderful magnets (check out Vernon). This is an excellent place to start shopping if you are looking for one of a kind artworks that your recipient can enjoy all day long.

Spotlight on RosieMade

Etsy Buy Handmade RosieMade

I simply adore color (but regular readers know that already). I also adore text. Letters--big and small, script and print, colored and not, plain and fancy, hold a special place in my heart. I love their texture, their shape, and their magical ability to shape and hold thoughts. In many fantasy novels, the power of a name is unsurpassed. Simply by knowing things true names you can command them. For me, words of all kinds, hold a similar power.

Thus it is that I found RosieMade's shop with fascination. Here text is not a buried part of the background, but front and center. Yet the bold colors, thick textures, and surprising shapes makes these letters far from ordinary.

The majority of the work in her shop is custom. You can have a set of canvases put together to spell anything you like--the name of a child, an important date, a meaningful saying. Me, I want our last name. You know how people get those little plaques and signs that say "The Smith's Est. 2006" (or whenever they got married). I want one of those, made with life, with vibrancy, by Rosie.

The first image below is the first listing of Rosie's that I encountered and which absolutely captivated me. I adore the slightly richer than usual primary colors. The hints of brown lend a more sophisticated air to the overall set. It could still hang happily in a child's room, but it could just as easily grace the space of an adult.



The second image shows the other type of signage that you will find in RosieMade. Signs written in the language of symbols (or very cute critters). These penguins showcase Rosie's amazing talent for drawing and demonstrate a wonderful alternative to names or dates. Imagine a set of cats or dogs for a true pet lover. Fish, turtles, snakes...just about any critter would look right at home on a colorful, swirling background.



And because most of the listings are custom listings, you have the opportunity to really reflect the recipient--add an animal to the beginning or end of a name. Or spell out names and phrases not commonly found on pre-printed items. (My mother is a Charlotte, have you ever tried to find pre-printed items with "Charlotte" on them. It's practically impossible!) Although Rosie reserves the right to make final decisions on colors, you can certainly give her a jumping off point in terms of palette or decor.

The superb quality of these pieces means that these will be enjoyed for years to come. The small size of the canvases means that they can be rearranged to fit new nooks and spaces and children grow or families move. I think that these little signs would make a wonderful holiday gift for children, families, newlyweds, and anyone who appreciates art and meaningful words.

Spotlight on UniqueLook

UniqueLook

One thing being married has taught me...men's clothes are boooring. Blue polo shirt. Green polo shirt. Kahki slacks. Black slacks. Yawn. I admit I often envy my husband for the ease he has in interpreting dress codes (if anyone wants to clearly and simply define "buisness casual" for women, I am ALL ears), but I certainly don't mind the plethora of options I have in color, material, drape, and style when trying to find something that fits *just so*.

So in this world of cookie-cutter men's clothes, I am always excited to find sellers who make beautiful, colorful, and (most importantly) wearable designs for men. And UniqueLook made me deliriously happy. Color! Form! Painting! Silk on Ties! And options I might have a prayer of talking my husband into!

Each of UniqueLook's silk ties features a handpainted design. The colors and patterns range from bold to subtle but always they are meticulously crafted and breathtaking.

The first image below is one of my favorite designs, a loosely organized web of squares vaguely reminiscent of a city skyline or (for my more nerd-ily inclined friends) a circuit board layout. The strong white line carries your eye through out the tie while the small squares create little resting spots that invite you to examine the design a bit more fully. From a practical standpoint, this tie is conservative enough not to scare anyone off and the cool, calm colors would work well with the classic light blue button down buisness shirt and slacks. This is an artisan tie for people who would poo-poo artisan goods as being too frilly or otherwise out of their comfort zone.



For those who do enjoy bold designs that make a large statement, UniqueLook also has you covered. The second image shows how seamlessly her shop spans that stylistic gap. From an artistic vantage, the layering of colors and the play of color, texture, and depth that results makes this combination frame-worthy. From a fashion focused point of view, this tie is sure to be the star of the outfit. Framed against a dark jacket, this tie would ensure that you stand out (for a good reason!) at that buisness lunch or important meeting. Or simply ensure you can find yourself in the wedding photos. ; )



If you are looking for a way to add a bit of punch to your business wardrobe, or are trying to find something special to gift that hard-to-shop-for guy in your life, I suggest taking a good look at UniqueLook. It's a gift that's sure to be used and a tie that is sure to be noticed. It's also a great way to introduce the joys of owning handmade, artisan goods to someone who may never have thought of themselves as an "indie" kinda person.

Spotlight on PaintandInk

There are limitless "styles" of arts. You can speak in terms of "movements" (the Impressionists, for example) or genres (say, folk art) or influences (Picasso and Warhol come to mind, spawning dozens of imitators) or periods ("Modern" art). And each style will have it's own faithful followers and determined detractors. One oft heard criticism is the smug "My 5 year old could draw that!".

One thing an art education is good for is teaching, not only to appreciate that art, but to seperate it. Because, some of it, yes, a five year old could draw. But some of it goes far beyond that. In those instances, the artist is choosing to draw in a less realistic style for a purpose--and it lends greater meaning and authenticity to the work.

PaintandInk is one of those shops that beautifully showcases how a simple, clean style can add to a work. The Interimaginational Institute of Fantastical Exploration and Cartography (doesn't the name alone make you smile?) creates maps to those hidden, forgotten lands of our childhood. The bright colors and whimsical drawings add to the sense of childhood play, long since buried somewhere in the back of your brain.

As a child, I could spend hours with only an unsharpened pencil as a "magic wand" and a friend or two. With our wands, there was nothing we couldn't do, nowhere we couldn't go, nothing we couldn't be. PaintandInk brings me back to that time, that mindset--that sense of adventure and limitless possibility.

The first image below shows Hideaway Island, just off the Sea of Enchantment. A close look shows how much thought and love goes into each one of the originals. The Mountains of Menance loom to the north, while the "fishing (is) good here" near the "three big boulders" that mark the treasure. The use of watercolors lends a "glow" to the whole thing--mimicking the bright lure of the treasure hunts and limitless adventures of play.



The second image showcases the second type of work found in PaintandInk's shop--up close and personal portraits of the characters found in miniature on the maps. If you weren't already convinced, these larger images make it explicitly clear that the straighforward style of work is a choice not a technical limitation. Just look at the rich shading in the sails or the beautiful swirl of colors that make up the sea.



The images in PaintandInk's shop are like little portals to days long since gone by. Days where a cardboard box was all I needed to see the world and notebook paper sufficed as a high tech computer. Today, my adventures are a little more costly, the world a bit smaller but these small maps lead me back to those long forgotten adventures. I can envision these maps hanging in nurseries and offices alike. Perfect for anyone with a spirit of adventure, these small prints serve to inspire and illuminate. And that is the real treasure, one you can't put a price tag on.

Spotlight on ninaklausen

Etsy Buy Handmade ninaklausen

Every so often, while browsing around Etsy, I find a piece that speaks to me. No, not one that says "Buy me, I would look fabulous right there!" (although I find many of those!), but one that I relate to on such a deeply personal level that it is almost unquantifiable. Something so essentially true to my own experiences and sense of self that I feel like I should point to it and tell people, "See that? That's me."

One such piece is what drew me into Nina's shop. The strong, bold lines, and distinct voice that I found there left me awed. There are many different ways to create art. Some create impulsively--working from instinct, building a piece the way you ride a bicycle, by feel and practice. Others analytically plan every line, every dash of color. In Nina's work you find the levels of meaning and consistency of "voice" that often comes from meticulous planning. And, in the same pieces, you find the fluidity of line that often comes from unfettered impulse. This careful balance is a distinctive characteristic in all the work in the shop.

The first image below is the piece that brought me to Nina's shop-- "Confidence". Now, generally speaking, I'm not a huge fan of labeling art. In most instances, I believe that pieces should speak for themselves and not need the crutches of artist's statements or titles that wink and nudge the viewer towards understanding. However, this piece is a brilliant example of using titling as an integral part of the piece. The name is not a descriptor, nor is it an attempt to salvage meaning in a poor piece. Here, the title is a key and transformative element of the piece; just as much a part of the art as the ink and paper.

The image shows a small house, solidly placed on a bit of ground, about to be overwhelmed and (at first glance) washed away. But seeing the title, you have faith in that little house. It's just a bit of water and whether it goes over, around, or through, when it has passed the house will still be there, just as solidly as ever.

Technically, the use of collaged paper rather than ink gives the sky a light, airy feeling. And the pattern selected is just right for giving the impression of clouds and atmosphere to support the print in the foreground without competing with or distracting from it.



The second image shown uses the same technique of combining lino printing with collaged papers and bears an equally transformative title-- "Everything is Fine". The piece depicts a woman standing with one hand on her hip and the other clenched in a fist. We can't see her eyes, but her mouth reveals a smile. Her dress is covered with twisting, climbing shapes that appear to be climbing up her form. The possible meanings are limitless. But one thing is certain. Her cool confidence and self assurance-- revealed by the small smile.

The red background is not only gorgeous, but fully loaded with all of red's varied meanings-- passion, anger, hatred, love, energy, action, blood, life. Contrasting with and playing off of the depth of the red is the very still, very composed figure. Introductory art classes reveal some basic techniques--diagonal lines create motion; horizontal ones, calm; and vertical lines, strength. Most artists tend to pair "line" meanings with color meanings--pieces that rely on lots of horizontal lines, for instance, might also be rich in blues. Given those "classic" pairings, Nina's choice to pair an energetic red with a stalwart straight figure is especially refreshing and challenging. It creates a source of tension in the piece that does not allow the viewer to simply glance at the work and move on. You are forced to engage--all without being allowed to make eye contact with the subject.



Nina's work shows a brilliant understanding of the technical aspects of her art. Each piece is precisely planned and beautifully executed. However, her technical skills do not define her art, for it is her deeply meaningful subject matter that makes her pieces so accesible and yet so worthy of reflection. Her pieces would make wonderful gifts for anyone who appreciates the technical details of art. But more than that, these are artworks that you can give to people (including yourself) who are at crossroads in their life. People who are struggling, and surviving, and fighting to understand themselves. For those are the same emotions she portrays so richly.

Spotlight on DesignsInFloral

Etsy Buy Handmade DesignsInFloral

One of the wonderful things that Etsy is great for is reclaiming crafts. I'm sure we can all name certain things that just speaking the name makes us cringe. We've seen one too many hot-glued, poorly knitted, hodgedpdoged items to ever think highly of those "art" forms again. But that is unfair to the craft--it's not the fault of the technique or the materials that that particular practitioner has, uh, a lot of growing to do. And browsing on Etsy is a great way to redeem those crafts that you have long since written off.

Pressed flowers is one of those crafts that, perhaps because of its seeming simplicity, often finds those big, fake, smiles plastered on other people's faces. But once again Etsy provides proof that there is hope. And more than hope, there is beauty.

DesignsInFloral shows the art and craftswomanship that is possible within the medium. And really, I will never see pressed flowers the same way again. Her work consists of two main types--the first is the more traditional flower pressing--single flowers or bunches pressed and available on just about anything you can think of. Even in these more straightforward designs, Cheryl shows a clear understanding of composition and color. The second type of work found in her shop is not only original, it's captivating--she uses pressed flowers as collage elements to create larger stories. In these works, the flowers blend into the image, creating two layers at which the work can be enjoyed and appreciated.

The first image shows an example of her flowers used as collage elements to create a figurative work. Now, granted, I am a sucker for cute snowmen and Santa Clause's but...it's SO CUTE! Ahem. The texture of the floral elements works wonderfully to create a very dimensional image from Santa's soft beard and puffy coat edging to the sharp pine needles of his small tree. The whole thing has a wonderfully organic and "country" feel. This card would be beautiful framed among a collection of Santa Clauses or hung in a rustic/primitive/country home. This is the kind of card I buy, fully intending to send, and then find I can't part with!



The second image shows how the floral elements pull together for an abstract piece. The colors and textures here are simply gorgeous and pull together beautifully for a piece that simply embodies autumn. I especially enjoy the careful attention to the background of the piece. Look carefully and you will see that it is not simply a couple of squares placed on the card, but many smaller pieces. Also of note is that the entire background is made of leaves. Imagine the process--each one must be hand selected. Each one carefully pressed flat. Each one cut *just so to fit the card and place their color in the desired location. Each one affixed to the card. And finally the leaf skeleton (which has undergone it's own process) can be affixed. The entire card bespeaks care and attention to detail. This is the soul of handmade, this is what pressed flowers should be.



DesignsInFloral is still a relatively new Etsy shop, just having opened this summer, but I would keep a careful eye on the shop for unique and fabulous cards that are sure to come this fall and winter. They are just the thing to send some handcrafted love with!

Spotlight on BarbedWire

I am a hopeless romantic. Which means I have a HUGE soft spot for any custom portraits of couples. Of course, I am still picky, which means they have to be unique, well crafted, and beautiful. And given the subject matter, they can't be overly feminine. And given my own inclinations they can't be given to highly structured gender roles or identification (hint, if I'm pink and he's blue, I'm outta here). Even within my restrictions, there is still lots of lovely portraiture to choose from on Etsy and I love to browse though it and dream of getting custom portraits done from our wedding pictures.

One day, while wandering through the art category on Etsy, looking for nothing in particular, I found a piece that made my heart skip a beat. It was so sweet, so centered, so captured the feeling of being in love-- and I just stopped and stared. Eventually I came to my senses and looked around the rest of the shop. And I found pieces that tugged on my heart strings even more.

The image below is my absolute favorite piece. The actual listing is for a custom order, which means that the work is create based on a photo of you and your loved one holding hands. I can imagine almost endless possibilities--holding the hand of a grandparent, a child, a spouse, a parent. This particular piece grabs my attention because of the wedding rings. Perhaps because I am still relatively recently married (just a year and half), this pose seems particularly poignant. Just the simple addition of the rings tells you the story. This is a married couple. They are still very much in love, they support each other, strengthen each other.

The fact that the piece uses vintage music is fitting given the importance that music is often given in relationships--couples often have "their" song, traditional wedding receptions are marked in terms of specific dances. Technically, the paint and sheet music work together beautifully to create a depth, dimension, and a *moment* that the pair of hands occupy easily, comfortably.



The second image here is of a completely different sort. There is still a sense of a captured moment, but instead of a richly detailed painting, this is a simple, straightforward line drawing. This little one is part of BarbedWire's Sheeple series. Each sheeple is a sheep doing a people thing. If you have ever had a pet that clearly understood what you were saying and then pointedly ignored you; or simply an affection for sheep, then you will love these little sketches.



For affordable, accessible, art BarbedWire is a great choice. She not only offers custom portraits of hands but also of pets, either of which would make a brilliant holiday gift for the special people in your life. Her sheeple series would work well for sheep collectors, animal lovers, or small nooks that just need a bit of life. Now is the time to start looking/ordering if you want custom artworks for this holiday season, and I suggest starting in BarbedWire's shop! : )

Spotlight on LunaGraphica

Regular readers know of my addiction attraction to color--like a moth to a flame. And I've mentioned before my love for thick, dark lines. So it's really no surprise that LunaGraphica's work keeps drawing me back. This is a shop that I seem to always come back to in random ways, whenever I am searching for something and one of her works comes up, I just have to click. Eventually, I put two and two together and just hearted the shop!

However, my attraction to LunaGraphica's work is more than a superficial infatuation with color. What makes her work truly special are the stories each piece tells. The majority of her pieces incorporate text that feels as intimate as journal entries. There is a certain soothing, re-affirming quality to positive journaling that is captured in just line or two on many of these pieces. And the text is a truly integral part of the work, fitting against the linework, filing in small nooks and crannies. The overall effect is a compact and powerful statement. You simply cannot take everything in with one glance, but must spend time with each piece--just like when meeting a new person.

The first image shows an ACEO, "Brought to you by the Letter B". This piece demonstrates LunaGraphica's use of color, line, language--and the way she manages to squeeze the most out of a very compact space. (For those who many not have seen ACEOs before, they are only 2.5" by 3.5"). This sort of exploding potential is characteristic of LunaGraphica's work. Even more open pieces share the same of vibrancy and power.

Gradations of color are used to create focal points and give your eyes some "breathing room", which prevents the small piece from feeling overcrowded. Those same gradations also combine with the linework to keep your eyes moving, noticing new details each time. For me, these pieces connect on a deeper level of self, speaking to who I want to be not just who I currently am.



The second image shows a linoblock--a very different medium than the tight, controlled world of ink drawings. However, many of the same characteristics shine through--thick black lines, bright colors, a full space that does not feel crowded. Without the text, this image is a bit more flexible in it's interpretation, but it is still a powerful image--one full of self-confidence and hope. Technically, the warm and cool colors serve as balancing forces, helping to draw you in and keep your eye swirling around. Despite that movement, it is a peaceful piece, and I find that my eyes slow and finally come to rest on the eye of the subject in a meeting of selves.



With her bright colors, bold line work, and messages that ring true on a personal level LunaGraphica's work is a perfect little pick me up. Perhaps you need a dash of color for your office or studio space? Or you want something to help inspire a friend? Or even to thank someone who inspired you? Go and look around, you are sure to find something that will delight.

Spotlight on molecularmuse

Etsy Buy Handmade molecularmuse

I am a nerd. This is a fact I have long since embraced. So it's no suprise I often find myself drawn to nerdy art. What might surprise people, though, is that I love it even without understanding. Complicated equations well outside my field, intricate diagrams, interlocking mechanisms. The attention to detail gets me everytime. Thus it is that despite my lackluckluster chemistry skills (let's just say I once finished a final in just one hour because I ran out of questions I could comprehend) I fell madly and deeply in love with molecularmuse.

Gorgeous, simple, graceful, chemical structures? Check. Sterling silver exquisitely crafted? Check. The only hard part is deciding what molecule represents you. Are you dopamine (a pleasure chemical found in the brain), caffeine (the old standby), estrogen (a modern, brainy, feminist), or something else entirely? And, just in case you prefer to claim your chemicals in another form the shop also offers glassware.

The first image below shows the caffeine pendant, which first caught my eye. You can see the delicate craft involved when you look at the join between pendant and chain. Molecularmuse has carefully created a small loop in the end of the metal for the chain to pass through. From a normal viewing distance, you would never even notice the join, just a single creation. The way the pendant and chain join so seamlessly together recalls the way that molecules combine together to create one visible whole.



The second image showcases a bit of nerd humor--a wine decanter branded with a representation of ethanol. The shape of the decanter recalls lab beakers (although I bet this one is in MUCH better shape than the grungy, smelly, abused beakers we dealt with in chem lab)--even the sandblasted design brings to mind the study measurements etched on their sides.



If you know sciency, classy people, this store is a must shop to visit for housewarming gifts, birthday gifts, and the all to quickly approaching holidays! And if you are one of those sciency, classy people, what are you waiting for?

Spotlight on meArtDesign

Etsy Buy Handmade meArtDesign

Sometimes I begin to feel a bit like a broken record-- I like vibrant colors! I like detailed linework! But I do! And there are so many talented artists on Etsy who just keep feeding those addictions, so I don't think that will be changing anytime soon. : )

Michelle is one of those artists. However, even more than the gorgeous colors and intricate linework I adore so much, what really captures a viewer's attention is the sense of movement and vitality in each of her pieces. Her sweeping pictures of women, flowers, and small critters simply radiate positivity, love of life, and self confidence--making each piece more than just a beautiful piece of art, they are small affirmations of self and worth.

The first image shown, showcases many of Michelle's signature themes--women, birds, flowing lines, and the female form merging with nature. The peaceful look on her face makes the piece serene and the vibrant lighting in the piece brings to mind my favorite sunny afternoons. There are plenty of deep messages--being part of nature, giving back, being at peace with your self, nurturing others--but even for those who don't want to ponder the personal messages, it is a beautiful piece, carefully composed and showing a deep familiarity with the language of color. For those who do wish to ponder the deeper messages, this piece gives a few key areas to think on, and provides a tranquil enough setting for meditation. Perhaps it is because I am so drawn to the style, but I find that I connect on a very personal level with many of the women in Michelle's pieces. They are every woman. And they are me.



The second image showcases another style of work in Michelle's shop--mostly black and white, highly detailed line work with a few key areas of color. This piece again shows a female figure who appears to be dancing, flying, or floating. The look on her face is slightly dreamy and distant and together it reminds me of dancing by myself to a favorite love song on the radio. Natural elements are also present here, although they are most abstract and subtle. The lines wrapping around her right arm appear to form a tree, her dress recalls vines, leaves, and berries, and a small sprig of berries seems to sprout from behind her head.

The use of color on her face is just enough to ground her--to take her from coloring book creation to fully alive. Metaphorically, you could also argue that her face is real and the rest of what you see is how she sees herself, or what exists in a fantasy/dream world space in her head. Taking that view, the image becomes incredibly intimate as you are seeing into her self image. This piece would also make an excellent focus for meditation or inspiration as every viewer will bring their own experiences to the piece.



Given Michelle's strong theme of grounded, confident, vibrant women I think these pieces would make excellent gifts for any woman in your life who needs a small reminder to celebrate her own strength and gifts. However, women are not the only ones who can appreciate these small masterpieces and the works are not so feminine in nature that men would find them difficult to relate to. In fact, Michelle's Sharing Trees ACEO was among the gifts I gave my husband for our anniversary last February as the piece recalled a reading we had had at our ceremony.

Spotlight on jessypoole

jessypoole

Regular readers are well versed in my love for color and texture. I'm not sure if I have ever mentioned my absolute adoration for mixed media art on this blog before, but it is another soft spot of mine. In part because the physical layering of pieces creates an additional texture. In part because by using found patterns, type, or images artists are often able to expand beyond the limits of their own techniques. And in part because the borrowed imagery is often laden with it's own meaning, bringing new layers of depth to the work.

I can't recall exactly how I stumbled across on of Jessy's pieces, if I was doing a search on etsy or if I saw her avatar in the forums. What I do remember is stopping to STARE at the particular piece I ran across. It was a litany of things I like. Trees? Check. Vibrant colors? Check. Swirly Patterns? Check. Rainbows? Check. But it was more than just an concoction of components that I like individually. The piece had a movement, a life and a directness that made it difficult to click away. Once I finally did, I found a shop full of equally magical pieces. Focusing on trees and birds, Jessy's work exhibits a distinct use of color, patterns, and textures to create an everlasting moment.

Her profile states "My current pieces are a conscience effort to catch a fleeting moment and turn it into an eye pleasing image. I have mentally snapped a picture of something in motion, then made it immobile and permanent." And she succeeds admirably.

The first image shows the picture that was my first introduction to Jessy's shop, the one that so entranced me. The gaze of the baby owl is compelling and, as a viewer, I find it as difficult to break away as if I had locked glances with a living, breathing owl. Despite the fantastical background, the small bird has no problems appearing fully fleshed out and very much alive. The richly textured paint of the owl blends wonderfully with the most delicate floral pattern in the background.



The second image showcases a different aspect of Jessy's talent--pure painting. Although she uses the same bold palette, it is toned down just a touch to create a more "true to life" image. However, the same sense of vibrancy and life is readily apparent. I am particularly drawn to the way that the branches continue just off the edges of the canvas--a subtle nod to the expansive scale of the subject (the Grand Canyon) and incredibly enhancing the vitality of the piece.



I expect Jessy's shop to garner lots of attention in the future. Her distinctive style, bold colors, and natural subjects are sure to leave an indelible mark on the imaginations of many viewers. I would suggest buying now, before demand outpaces supply.

Spotlight on Copperheart

My love of color and all things tiny has been mentioned on here many times before. However, what is worth noting is that it is rare to find both qualities in a single piece of jewelry. Artists who tend to adore bright, bold colors also seem to like a chunky, heavy feel to their work. Artists who appreciate delicacy often work in metals in a single color--preferring to focus on form instead of color. Which is why seeing Copperheart's avatar in the forums made my mouth literally drop open.


Needless to say, I clicked. And although I eventually managed to pull my jaw up off my desk, I was no less impressed by the rest of the pieces in her shop. Alison's work centers on hand painted enameled cabochons and etched copper pieces. A common thread through all of her work is a stunning use of line, form, and color. With a few exceptions, most of the pieces are abstract enough to be open for interpretation but representative enough to be highly suggestive.

The first image shows the ring in Alison's avatar that so quickly grabbed my attention. Entitled "Wing Ring", it is clear how the artist interprets the black and white shape. However, my mind sees a rugged mountain, urban civilization and/or decay, and even the rocky outcropping (Pride Rock) which features so prominently in the Disney movie The Lion King. The vivid color and bumpy texture of the background contrast nicely with the smooth, high contrast drawing. And at only 5/8" this ring is daintily sized enough for even anti-big jewelry people like me to be tempted by.



The second image showcases one of Alison's etched copper pieces. The pendant itself is strikingly simple. Beautiful linework recalls planets, amoebas, and even cartoon depictions of cheese. The most fascinating quality of the pendant is the way that the line work gives the impression of "cycling". By which I mean it reminds me of those videos wherein you start on focused in on something very small and zoom out and out and out only to eventually find yourself back at the very small thing you started with--essentially an infinite loop. The way the spherical shapes are arranged feels to me like a frozen frame from one of those videos.The necklace for the pendant has been beaded from Czech glass in a rhythmic pattern that further recalls the looping nature of those videos.



I am excited to have found an Etsy artisan who offers jewelry both colorful and dainty. Copperheart is a must see store when you looking for small pendants, earrings, or rings that still have a colorful and artistic flair. Their small size makes them perfect not only for the lovers of tiny things (like myself) but also for younger girls who might be overwhelmed by larger pendants.

Spotlight on witkopwoodworking

http://witkopwoodworking.etsy.com

As a very hands-on, touchy-feely type of person the texture of the items I own is just as important (and sometimes more so) than the aesthetics of them. Items that simply feel good in my hands are nearly impossible to resist. Generally I am safe from that particular shopping urge when browsing online. However, somethings simply LOOK so soft or smooth that simply a picture is enough to trigger that compulsion.

Witkopwoodworking is full of such wonderfully tactile pieces. A masterful craftsman, Richard's curvaceous vases and generous bowls are obvious labors of love. Each piece would be perfectly at home on either end of the decorative-functional spectrum. Which is what makes these items such outstanding gifts.

One of my favorites (and, indeed, what lured me into witkopwoodworking) is the clock shown below.



The smooth, curving exterior makes my fingers itch to caress the casing and the striking inlays of black walnut appeal to my aesthetic sensibilities. This versatile piece would be at home in the office or the craft room or even up on a mantle. With it's classic style and relatively unobtrusive size this is a gift that could be appreciated and used by recipients with a wide range of tastes, styles, and decors.

Another very adaptable piece is the black walnut bowl below.



Again, the clean look and graceful curves make this a classic and multi-functional piece. This is a little like the classic "little black dress" fashion magazines are always talking about. It's a classy, functional item that will blend with almost any decor. Which means you buy now and use it forever. Maybe it begins life holding change or receipts, then gets conscripted into a jewelery box, then becomes a space for special momentos, and finally gains a special space on the mantle. Or perhaps it does a stint in the office holding candy on your desk. Or maybe it holds bibs and bobs of thread by the sewing machine. The possibilities are endless, but one thing is certain--wherever this little bowl sits it graces with a bit more style and a bit more class.

Personally, witkopwoodworking will be at the top of my list this year for holiday gifts. The understated, classy nature of his pieces makes them a perfect fit for everyone from my natural loving in-laws to my minimalistic brother.

Spotlight on joncarling

http://joncarling.etsy.com
http://www.thehowlingspark

I have written before about my life long love affair with vivid, rich colors. Which might lead you to believe that black and white images would leave me cold--and many of them do. I look at them and think "That's a great sketch. When will it be finished?". However, there are artists who posses the magical ability to draw with such skill and breathe such life into pieces that not only does the lack of color not bother me but I don't even notice it's absence.

Jon Carling is one such artist. His works are full of lavish line work and textures that you can feel just by looking at the image. However, Jon's work is not show-offish, adding lines or texture simply to have them there as a display of his outstanding technical skill. Instead, each line is a measured and integral part of the work.

His subject matter is whimsical without being cutesy, evocative without being depressing, and thoughtful without being unbearably weighty.

The image below showcases Jon's talent for textures. The grass is lush and soft, the tree's bark is rough. Many artists creating similar works would get sucked into their own textures and leave the piece at that. However, Jon's addition of the sharply detailed flowers in the foreground snaps the image from "pleasant" to "personal". Without the flowers, the small witch, the subject of the piece, would be lost in the background. It's the seemingly innocuous details like that which reveal Jon's careful attention to a beautiful composition--something far too many artists overlook in favor of the more technical aspects of line work.



The second image is one of Jon's simpler works. On an unadorned background, his characters (often chimera of the mer variety) appear ready to leap off the page. You get the distinct impression that if you were to turn your head and look back they would have moved. These are the types of creatures that come alive at night, running free from their frames and inhabiting your house. Here again, you can see the gorgeous textures Jon creates-- look at the realism of the wing for example. Yet the textures do not take over-- instead they freely combine with areas of mostly linework. Further proof that the artist is carefully crafting pieces, unfettered by the limits of the techniques he employees.



From the most simple to most complex, every piece in Jon's shop is an optical delight. He creates a world that resonates with our own. One where fantastical creatures are the norm, allowing us to bring a bit of magic into our own lives in a way that feels, not overdone, but just right. Like finding an old friend after many years.

Spotlight on oladesign

http://oladesign.etsy.com

Of all the arts I have seen and tried over the years, few still retain that "magic". On one hand, I am far more appreciative of arts that I have taken up (no matter how briefly). For example, I've done enough painting to seperate truly skillful painters from those with only a basic mastery of techniques. However, certain arts still continue to amaze me-- arts like calligraphy, where no errors can be allowed.

Oladesign demonstrates, not calligraphy, but a similarly skillful treatment. Working with pure white pottery as her canvas, she builds fanciful worlds with a deft touch and gorgeous linework. Her designs center around natural themes--leaves, branches, and animals. Each one imbued with a graceful liveliness.

Although similar in style and treatment, the subject matter of each piece lends it a completely unique feel, and makes selecting favorites a difficult task!

Just the same, the set of bowls below stand out to me. Many artists, given to such realistic depictions of the nature, would not venture into such a delightfully bright palette. However, oladesign not only goes there, she does a magnificent job. Despite the bright colors, the honesty of the leaves and branches is clearly communicated. Painting in the interiors of the bowls in matching colors, surprisingly, acts to subdue the effect of the vivid design so that it is still curiously calming. Matching without being matchy-matchy, these little bowls would work wonderfully as serving bowls or to hold odds and ends on a desk.



The next image shows a plate adorned with a flying bird and a tree in blossom. The delicacy of the linework in this piece is astounding. Pay close attention to the detailing on the flower or the darker "outline" around the tree trunk. Painting pieces like this requires an economy and fluidity of lines that absolutely astounds me. One stray mark can ruin or alter an entire piece, often taking you in directions you did not want to go. However, each line in this piece feels deliberate, planned, and expertly placed--without feeling stilted or tense.



The ability to transform a few lines into living creatures is a magical one. Creations like those in oladesign continually inspire and amaze me. These are pieces that you can buy equally for show and function. Whether you use them daily or put them on display, they are sure to bring joy and beauty to your life.

Spotlight on sockdogs/sockcats

http://sockdogs.etsy.com
http://sockcats.etsy.com

You may be aware that I like cats. (Given all the cute kitten pictures of late, I can't *imagine* how anyone would get that impression ; ) This stems from an undying love for cute, cuddly, soft things. When I was a child I had TONS of stuffed animals. Seriously, way to many. I still have a TV box full of just the ones I still can't bear to part with because they hold too many memories.

Which is why when I come across super cute plushies (as they are now called), I can't help but smile. And when I get to that age where everyone I know has children, I'm sure I shall be happily bestowing plushies for a multitude of birthdays and holidays.

And no one has cuter plushies than Stacey. Stacey runs two etsy shops: sockdogs and sockcats, and, as you might guess, each one focuses on sock animals--one for cats, one for dogs. Each one is lovingly crafted into a one of a kind friend. All animals come with their own collar, license, name, and story. (And since Stacey is a children's write and illustrator the stories are well thought out, innovative, and quirky--just like real pets' personalities.)

However, shopping with Stacey isn't just about the pure cute--it's also about the warm fuzzy feeling you get when you know that you are making a difference. The shops' profiles explain:

"a portion of every single adoption fee directly benefits the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, as well as other no-kill shelters across the country. These one-of-a-kind, handmade designer plush are helping to raise both awareness of and funds for many deserving shelter animals."

One of my personal favorites is Chanticleer, the poker playing pup. His bright fur and baleful eyes beg to be hugged. He would make an excellent addition to a dog lover's collection or be just the thing to brighten up some drab shelf space (perhaps next to some poker chips?).



And if you are a household with split loyalties, perhaps right next to Chanticleer should be Mocha, a sweet little tabby with a taste for chocolate. Her rich brown strips would make excellent camouflage for hiding your chocolate stash from prying eyes!



One thing to be aware of if you are considering adopting one of these cute critters--these are not intended for children under 7 or for pets. These are meant to be gently loved and displayed as the works of art that they are. However, if you have some extra room in your heart and your home, these little animals would make an excellent addition.

Spotlight on Lillan

http://Lillan.etsy.com

One thing that browsing etsy has taught me is that I am drawn to art of certain things. Draw, paint, collage, gocco, letterpress, screenprint, carve, or otherwise depict a tree and my attention is all yours. While it's a little depressing to discover that my list of likes usually coincides with what is "hot", I think I'll just pretend that I'm always leading the crowd, not following it. ; ) (Although that is probably a catch-22 worthy of it's own post). The good news about liking what's currently the in-thing is that choices abound. Big trees, little trees. Trees of every color, shape, size, material, and level of representationalism abound.

Every so often though, I find a seller who doesn't just offer a single beautiful tree, but a whole forest of them. Lillan shop is exactly such a store. And the longer I looked, the more attached I became. Her trees demonstrate a gorgeous mastery of linework, hand-drawn in black ink and colored with washes of watercolors. Add to this adept calligraphy and Lillan has my rapt attention.

While the original pieces that I was enthralled by have long since been sent off to happy homes, this duo is equally exquisite. In an artistic decision that allows the color to be rich and vibrant and the linework to still be the star, the color stops several inches short of the edge of the canvas while the trees continue on, their branches wrapping around the edges of the canvas. This particular piece would make an inspired wedding gift, sentimental without being overtly "mushy".



Once I pulled my head out of the trees and looked around the rest of her shop, I was equally enamored. Solemn little girls drawn and painted with the same detail and tenderness as the trees make appearances in many prints and paintings.

My favorite is shown below. Many artists, struck with a similar idea would take this in a very different direction. Think over the top cutsey with big flowers, loads of pink, and big cheerful smile. Lillan, however, makes her plant-girl hybrid all the more real by showing her as contemplative and a bit wistful. Her hair is not perfectly coifed, a few stray wisps dance out and she looks like she will soon shift positions because her arms are sore. I find the print soothing. You could spend idle hours just watching her grow (you can almost see her growing can't you?) wondering what she is thinking about.

The package in the lower left hand corner shows a glimpse of Lillan's beautiful calligraphy (as does the watermark). While it is not a main focus in this piece, the careful print adds a bit of our world to this fantasy.



Lillan builds a powerful, peaceful world through captivating art. And with affordable pricing, even for original works, everyone can bring a bit of that magical world into their own home.

Spotlight on letterarypress

http://letterarypress.etsy.com

The other day as I was wandering through the wilds of etsy, I was elated to find a kindred soul. You see (as you might be able to tell from my cards) I have a soft spot for inspirational quotes. I also really like simple, yet strong designs. And beautiful, timeless graphics. And bad puns. And letterpress. I really love letterpress.

Clicking into letterarypress's shop literally made me do a double take at the screen. It was like finding an alter-ego of mine who happened to be gifted with extraordinary design skills and access to (and knowledge about) a letterpress.

The crisp, clean design of these cards makes them an excellent choice for those hard to buy for males. That same characteristic also means that these would frame up beautifully. And indeed, it's hard to decide which would be preferable!

The first card that caught my eye was an Emmerson quote about the definition of success. This is a quote I have heard and seen many times before, however this time, it hit home much harder. Perhaps because I am finally at a stage in my life where I am defining for myself what success is and setting boundaries about the importance of family versus work versus income. However, the stunning design certainly didn't hurt. My very first thought was "I need to frame this and hang it in my cubicle!".

And in fact, letterarypress's style is perfect for the office--artsy but understated, classy yet bold. These are cards you can confidently hang in your office or give to a co-worker.



The second card to catch my eye was one that simply reads "I'm your biggest fan". From anyone else, it would be cheesy and maybe get a chuckle. But when done with such sophistication it is a lesson in irony. The design and execution are impossible to see as silly. The message is impossible to see as serious.

This card reminded me of my parents. My mother loves bad jokes, the cornier the better. My father likes to pretend that he is far above such things. This card bridges that gap. Whether from him to her, her to him, or them to the world it neatly combines both philosophies--while trivializing neither.



This is one of those shops where I absolutely want to hug the entire contents. From birth announcements to placecards to cards for any occasion I love everything in it. I could easily envision purchasing and framing several--a small hall of inspiration. Of course, they would also make excellent greeting cards, for anyone or any occasion.

Spotlight on VaseCandle

http://VaseCandle.etsy.com

I love the idea of candles--soft, flickering light, maybe a subtle scent in the air...But in real life, where I unfortunately spend most of my time, candles never seem to happen. Cats find them wonderful chew toys (like everything else they can sink their teeth into) and I always think of them *after* the fact. Which is why candle holders must be more than just functional--they must be beautiful works of art in their own right. That way, when they sit on a shelf, dresser, or side table unlit and untouched, no one can claim they are unloved or unappreciated.

Which is exactly why I adore VaseCandle. Not only do they offer handmade scented candles, but their candle holders are magnificent dancing colorful works of art. Available in just about any color you could dream up and then some, their holders come in two flavors, stand-alone vases and vase/dish combos.

The first style is shown below. Flowing beautifully upward, this candle holder seems to encompass the very nature of fire itself. And it's economical enough to make a wonderful gift--for a hostess, a co-worker, or yourself! This picture also demonstrates the wonderful glowing quality of these vases--the light from the candle gives life to the glasswork and, I would imagine, casts some beautiful colors in a darkened room.




This second piece is probably my favorite in the entire shop (of course, I am a sucker for a beautiful green). You can see that a vase, similar to the one shown above, holds the candle. Then that piece fits inside a bottom dish. The combined effect of the two layers of glass is a sense of movement that is enhanced by the light off the candle--almost like a graceful dance.



I am absolutely enamored with the color and movement of the pieces in VaseCandle. The organic shapes and vivid glass interact beautifully with the light from the candles. This year, when asked to buy gifts for those relative strangers--friends of friends, white elephant exchanges, etc.--VaseCandle will be my first stop.

Spotlight on skinnylaminx

http://skinnylaminx.etsy.com

I have a deep fascination of and appreciation for beautiful line work. There is something incredibly beautiful about something that is drawn in one go and not overwrought. Which doesn't imply that such pieces are amateurish or not thought out-- quite to the contrary, as the artist must practice and sketch and prepare. Rather, these pieces capture the beauty of simply letting something *be*. Of accepting ourselves the way we are. As squiggly little drawings or cute little creatures who aren't and do not need to be Rembrandt's or Van Gogh's.

Skinnylaminx captures that essence in simple, beautifully articulated line drawings that take a variety of forms. Natural forms provide unending inspiration--trees, birds, leaves, and flowers abound. Each piece has a happy-bouncy sense of playfulness and movement, daring you avoid smiling. It's like an infusion of happy!

I've already purchased my most favorite piece in her shop, but there is plenty left to keep me coming back. Two such pieces are shown below.

This first piece is a towel, one of several pieces to showcase these delightful Eep birds. I love the way that the design integrates into the top and the bottom of the towel. Many other towels I have seen simply cut off at the ends. Although this design does not continue all the way to the edges, there is a purpose to it, a conscious artistic choice and it is beautifully carried out. I am not left with the feeling that the equipment available restricted the design. The design is natural and fulfilled. Also also adore the small print at the bottom with the artist's name and date and the designation "made in South Africa". Those are the small touches--the connections with the artist--that make buying indie so much fun. "Oh, I love your towel! Where did you get it?" "Oh, from an artisan in South Africa." : )



The second item shown here is one of skinnylaminx's cut magnets. Each one of these is meticulously hand cut and each one showcases the gorgeous line work, interlocking shapes, and brilliant understanding of composition that underscores all work in the shop.

On a quest for magnets last weekend, I looked at 350 pages of magnets on etsy. I saw large magnets, small magnets, bottle cap magnets, and tons of glass marble magnets. The magnets in skinnylaminx's shop were hands down the most original works I saw. These beautiful pieces provide all the reason you need to go buy a quart of that magnetic primer and repaint a wall. Of course, they would look just as fantastic sprucing up a filing cabinet or a refrigerator. And they would make a killer locker decoration for a student.



Skinnylaminx displays a stunning mastery of line work and composition. Her pieces are brilliantly beautiful AND amazingly functional--that holy grail of combinations. I look forward to seeing what she will create next, but in the meantime I'll keep checking back whenever I need to smile. : )