Art Food AND Motherhood

My Latest Post on the Highline Blog - Live in the Moment

2012-01-25T00:25:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I wrote a blog post for Highline but I had one posted a couple of days ago. It is called Living in the Moment. It has already garnering some facebook likes, tweets, and positive feedback, including one interesting comment that I needed to think about overnight before responding. If you would like to read the post, the comment, and my response, please do. And I could love your feedback! Cheers :)

365 Days with Kiddos - #36 - Spend an Afternoon Coloring

2012-01-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

I spent hours and hours AND HOURS coloring as a child. While I grew up to make art every day, I didn't have many opportunities to simply color until I had my own kiddos. The enjoyment I used to get from coloring all came back to me when I started to do it with my girls. They have both been coloring since they could hold a crayon, long before they could talk. I really enjoy spending time with them an watching how their skills change as they get older.

My eldest, Quin, who is 5.5 years, is very creative when she colors. She likes to stay within the lines (which in my mind is not required) and she often uses several colors instead of just one in each segment of a coloring book page. Her creations are beautiful! She will use crayons but she prefers pencil crayons (colored pencils) and markers. She spends a lot of time on these creations, and we keep the ones she likes the best in a folder.

My youngest daughter, Emmanuelle, is just 2.5 years old. She has had the benefit of watching her older sister color. As a baby she would clamour to color and didn't spend much time using crayons.

She totally skipped pencil crayons. Her instrument of choice has always been markers. She used to scribble all over the page but recently we were pretty shocked when she started coloring in the lines. Her hand can suddenly control the marker and go exactly where she wants. She now spends up to an hour just filling our coloring books with glorious color. Amazingly enough, she seems to be very adept at color combinations, which I can't say I taught her, she just learned by looking and trying things out.

There are several benefits of coloring that I have seen in my children first hand. They have developed better concentration, their color awareness has grown, Emmanuelle has been able to learn the names of colors, it has helped them to develop their fine motor skills, and I can see that overall it helps them to be more artistically creative, to have better imaginations, and to help them to express their thoughts and feelings.

If you would like to try making recycled crayon cakes from your old crayon bits, please see this post...

The Next Craft Cafe - Come Revamp a Trucker Hat

2012-01-16T11:35:00.000-07:00

It’s a long haul on the open road…Ever wanted to design your very own hat? Come make one-of-a-kind hand stitched trucker hats featuring your own choice of a vintage stitched fabric panel. These unique hats have so many ways to stylize them… add funky fabric, recycled buttons, feathers, gems- the sky is the limit.

Come out and craft on Friday, January 27th, from 7 - 9 PM, at Wild Flour Bakery in Banff (201B 211 Bear Street in the Bison Courtyard).Remember to bring any of your own favorite patches, or neat fabric to up-cycle!The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks, and drinks.Cost: 30$ Please sign up and PRE-PAY at the Wild Flour or request a Paypal invoice from Tiffany. This activity will fill fast. Space is limited. Spread the word and bring a style-savy friend. Remember, if you bring a new participant you get a $5 discount or can give it as a donation to the YMCA. :)Contacts:Sheena sheenz6@hotmail.comTiffany oldesage@hotmail.com

Birdhouse Pendants - Craft Cafe

2012-01-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

The last Craft Cafe was a hit! We had lots of moms with kids who wanted to join in, but it was on a school night... so we have decided to have a kid's birdhouse making pendant night :) Here are some photos so you can get inspired and share in the fun.

Calling All Bow Valley Kids & Teens for a SPECIAL Craft Cafe - Birdhouse Pendants - Friday, January 20th, 2012

2012-01-13T16:33:00.002-07:00

Birdhouse pendants by Tiffany Teske

Calling all Kids and Teens to come to a Craft Café Workshop especially for you (and your parents)! Come out and craft the cutest little wooden birdhouse pendant.

This event will be held on Friday January 20th, from 6:30 – 8:30 PM

There are so many neat ways to get creative and customize your necklace. Remember to bring any of your own images, beads etc to upcycle..

This workshop is open for kids from 5 to 18 yrs. Kids aged 5 to 9 yrs please bring a parent to help you complete your project. Kids aged 10+ are welcome to come solo, bring a parent or come craft with a friend.

Cost: For this workshop, (with thanks to the Banff Community Grant) we are pleased to offer a reduced Craft Café rate of 20$ per participant. Additional pendants can be made for $15 each. Please sign up and PRE-PAY at the Wild Flour or request a Paypal invoice from Tiffany.
Contact us if you have any questions about rates.

The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks, and drinks.

Bring a new participant and you’ll get a $5 discount on a future craft cafe or can give it as a donation to the YMCA. :)

Contacts:
Sheena sheenz6@hotmail.com
Tiffany oldesage@hotmail.com

Always Dream Big 2, A Commissioned Collage, Goes Home...

2012-01-09T00:39:00.000-07:00

Always Dream Big (2)

Mixed Media Collage/assemblage

9x12"

By Tiffany Teske

SOLD

I completed this piece on Friday. It is based on Always Dream Big, a similar collage that I made for my solo show at the Wild Flour this past June. I have received not one, but three requests for commissions on that piece and have decided to do a series of six pieces based on it. This one has been safely delivered to its new home. Thank you so much, Courtney!

If you are interested in seeing the other pieces I will be posting them here, but you can also leave a comment below.

And remember to always dream big!!

I Will Be Teaching Fuji Transfer, Fuji Emulsion Lift, & Other Photo Transfer Techniques at CREATE Mixed Media Retreat in California

2012-01-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to be one of 30 instructors at the CREATE Mixed Media Retreat in Irvine, California, May 30th - June 3rd, 2012! It has been five years, to the day, since I travelled to teach. Back then, I brought my 1.5 year old daughter to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, to teach digital travel photography. Now, I have a 5.5 year old and a 2.5 year old, and I am ready to embark on a new adventure, solo this time, in the company of my amazing friend, Dea Fischer.If you love mixed media and are in the area, or if you would like to take a little vacation in Orange County, check out the 60 courses offered at this amazing retreat. There are courses in book making and art journaling, print making and surface design, mixed media stitch, collage and assemblage, mixed media jewlery... wow! The workshops are listed by order of day and can be seen here. I will be teaching Fuji transfers, Fuji emulsion lifts, and Creating the Vision; Printing and Transferring Your Images (with my wonderful friend, Dea!) If you would like to know more please see examples and course descriptions below.

Fuji Emulsion Lifts
Ha Ling By Tiffany Teske

Fuji Emulsion Lifts (3-Hour)

Date: Saturday, June 2Time: 6:00pm-9:00pm

Technique: Printmaking & Surface Design

Instructor: Tiffany Teske

Price: $85.00

Materials Fee: $20.00

Looking for a new way to add your images to your art? Let Tiffany teach you how to make Fuji Emulsion Lifts using Daylabs & Polaroid cameras. Whether you are a skilled photographer or a novice you will learn how to turn your images into one-of-a-kind emulsion lifts that can be displayed on their own or used to enhance your mixed-media pieces. If you have experience with Polaroid emulsion lifts, this class shows you a similar way to work with a more readily available film. Participants will leave with up to 20 Fuji images, on watercolor paper, glass, and metal, to use in other workshops.

Students Should Bring: 90 or 140 lb hot press (smooth) watercolor paper in 4x5” pieces (up to 20), 4x6” prints of photographs to work with and/or 35mm slides, Acrylic gel medium (matte or gloss), a 1" brush for applying medium, any porous or non porous surfaces you would like to put an emulsion lift on (examples: shell, metal, mirror, glass, wood, fabric

Fuji transfer

By Tiffany Teske

Fuji Image Transfers (3-Hour)

Date: Sunday, June 3Time: 9:00am-12noon

Technique: Printmaking & Surface Design

Instructor: Tiffany Teske

Price: $85.00

Materials Fee: $10.00

Do you use your own images in your art? Join Tiffany for an introduction to Fuji image transfers using Daylabs and Polaroid cameras. Whether you are a skilled photographer or a novice you will learn how to turn your images into one-of-a-kind transfers that can be displayed on their own or used to enhance your mixed media pieces. If you have experience with Polaroid transfers this class shows you a new (and different) way to work with a more readily available film. Participants will leave with up to 10 finished transfers on watercolor paper which can be used in other workshops.

Students Should Bring: 10 pieces of 90 or 140 lb hot press (smooth) watercolor paper cut into 4x5” pieces, 4x6” prints of personal photographs to work with and/or 35mm slides

Gel medium transfer on glass

Maine by Tiffany Teske

Creating the Vision: Printing and Transferring Your Images (6-Hour)

Date: Friday, June 1Time: 9:00am-4:00pm

Technique: Printmaking & Surface Design

Instructor: Tiffany Teske & Dea Fischer

Price: $149.00

Materials Fee: $25.00

You've mastered the photography and you've created images you love. Deepen your layers of creative engagement by learning to incorporate images of your own creation into your mixed-media artwork. Join Tiffany Teske and Dea Fischer to explore fascinating image printing and transfer techniques that can be tricky to master effectively. You will create cyanotype or "sun" prints from negatives, and practice making gel medium skins and transfers, blender pen transfers, encaustic and heat transfers. You will produce several pieces during this workshop that you can take away to use in your work

Students Should Bring: Negatives (large format if you have them or know how to make them, but we will teach you); photocopies (not prints) of non-copyrighted or self-created material; soft gel acrylic medium; 1" soft-bristle paint brush, blender pen (a solvent-based art marker like Copic with no pigment, available from your art supplier); an old spoon.

If you would like to sign up for any of these courses, or would like to know more about CREATE, please go to the CREATE website by click this link. If you can't make it to California, but will be in Banff, Alberta, or near here, please contact me for a private workshop. Cheers!

The Next Craft Cafe - Bird House Pendants - Tuesday, January 10th

2012-01-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

Pendants by Tiffany Teske

Calling all crafty and nature inspired women to come make the cutest little wooden birdhouse pendants imaginable! There are so many neat ways to get creative with these… envision birds, loved ones, nests and earthy images.

Remember to bring any of your own vintage images or unique jewelry findings to up-cycle!
These make amazing gifts for the nature enthusiast. Participants will have the option to make additional pieces for $15.

We will meet at Wild Flour Bakery from 7 - 9 PM on Tuesday, January 10th. The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks, and drinks.

Cost: 25$ Please sign up and PRE-PAY at the Wild Flour or to pay online, please request a Paypal invoice from Tiffany. This activity will fill fast. Space is limited.

Spread the word and bring a nature enthusiast. And remember, if you bring a new participant you get a $5 discount or give it as a donation to the YMCA. :)

Contacts:
Sheena sheenz6@hotmail.com
Tiffany oldesage@hotmail.com

Tea, Tea, Tea - Craft Cafe Does a Second Round of Tea Blending

2011-12-22T23:43:00.002-07:00

Vanilla Chai, Goji Berry Green, Peppermint Licorice, Blueberry Bang Rooibos, Red Espresso Rooibos, Cougar Tea (a custom Banff blend that pays homage to the animal, or maybe...), Sadie's Chamomint, Jasmin Dragon Tears, Jasmin Matcha, Izu Gyokuro Matcha, a beautiful new locally made mug, an awesome sleek tea cup from Japan... I had been saving up for this latest Craft Cafe and my family is now completely set for winter. Sheena & I once again partnered with Susanne & Siona from the Banff Tea Company, to bring our participants an evening of tea blending. The Banff Tea Company is locally owned, carries over 180 teas, and they always give 25% of their profits to charity!

Even though the weather outside was frightful, it was warm at Wild Flour Bakery, our usual home for Craft Cafe. We were booked to the maximum, only lost a couple to the nasty roads, and my cousin, Maxine, from Ottawa, was even able to join in during her visit. Our evening began with some tea education and tasting. From there, we walked over to the Tea Co, where everyone was able to blend their own flavour of tea to take home. Before leaving we were able to shop for ourselves and for holiday gifts thanks to Susanne offering 25% off anything in the store. I went a little overboard, but I LOVE tea. I recently traded, without even trying, my one large cup of dark roast swiss water decaf with brown sugar, for a morning cup of chai or an earl grey blend. I was like a kid in a candy store...

Thank you to the Banff Tea Co and to everyone who came out to blend tea, especially those who had to drive from afar. The winning tea blends of the night, worth mentioning for the titles alone, were Mint Country and Iron Maiden Tea. Stay tuned for an upcoming announcement for the next Craft Cafe.

Do you have a favourite kind of tea? I would love to know what it is. Please leave a comment...

CAAG Small Gems Show - December 2011 - New Encaustic Collages

2011-12-12T00:59:00.001-07:00

Pretty Bird

Encaustic Collage

12x12"

$175

I have work in three group exhibitions this holiday season; at Cube Gallery in Ottawa, at The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies in Banff, and at the Canmore Artist and Artisan Guild (CAAG) Gallery in Canmore. Running until December 27th, 2011, the CAAG Small Gems show has a wide variety of photography, collage, paintings, pottery, and mixed media pieces. It is at the CAAG Gallery, 950 8th Avenue, in Canmore, the same building as the Canmore Public Library. I have 6 pieces in the show...

Back When Life Was Simple

Encaustic Collage

9x12"

$175

Spread Your Wings (Fly)

Encaustic Collage

9x12"

$175

Play

Encaustic Collage

9x12"

$175

He Love Me (He Loves Me Not)

Encaustic Collage

12x12"

$150

Rolling Stone

Encaustic Collage

9x12"

$175

Canmore Artist and Artisans Guild Mini Art Sale

2011-12-03T01:39:00.001-07:00

If you are in the Bow Valley this weekend, come and see me in Canmore. I will be part of the Canmore Artist and Artisans Guild Mini Art Sale. It is at the CAAG Gallery, 950 8th Avenue, in Canmore, the same building as the Canmore Public Library. The show is on Saturday, December 3rd, and Sunday December 4th. I will have a selection of my visual art, bird nest pendants, spoon assemblages, and feather earrings for sale. I hope to see you!

My Work in GREAT Big Smalls VII at Cube Gallery

2011-11-30T23:56:00.001-07:00

The Strength of Nature

By Tiffany Teske

Encautic (Wax) Collage

12x12"

My works will be part of Great Big Smalls VIIat Cube Gallery in Ottawa, from Tuesday November 29th, 2011 toSaturday December 31st, 2011.

Vernissage:Thu Dec 1st, 2011 — 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm Fine Art, Music, refreshments, fun.

Cube’s seventh annual show of small works with BIG heart. The show features 65 artists, from the established to the emerging. There will be cultural gifts for everyone and at all price levels. Start your collection – or round out your existing one with some great small pieces. All works are original, small and suitable for Christmas, Chanukah or any other holiday tradition you celebrate.

Memories are Beginning to Fade

By Tiffany Teske

Encautic (Wax) Collage

12x12"

Featuring these great artists!Sam Vainola, Gayle Kells, Norman Takeuchi, France-Marie Trépanier, Pina Manoni-Rennick, Monika Seidenbusch, John Felice Ceprano, Sanjeev Sivarulrasa, Jeannine St-Amour, Victoria Wonnacott, Katherine McNenly, Mahshid Farhoudi, Wendy Stevenson, Joejene C. Santos, Kathy M. Haycock, Juliana McDonald, The Latest Artists, Joyce Burkholder, Karen Goetzinger, Gilda Pontbriand, Adrienne Herron, Olaf Krassnitzky, Shannon Whittle, MaryAnn Camps, Barbara Gamble, Ingrid Dabringer, Jessica Sarrazin, Rebecca Mason, Reid McLachlan, Lindsay Watson, Karina Kraenzle, Denis Larouche, Linda Sorensen, Monique Martin, Russell Yuristy, Jennifer Gibbs, Meghan Myres, Barclay Guinn, Chris Johnson, Patti Normand, Peggy Hughes, Richard Purdy, Gerald Trottier, Suzan Mandla, Kristy Gordon, Karole Marois, Megan Hinton, Anne Barkley, Tiffany Teske, Doug Cosbie, Garry Bowes, Katrin Smith, Janet Moore, Pansee Atta, Paul Schibli, Sue Ukkola, Eric Walker, Mary Wong, Jean Jewer, Dan Austin, Gwen Best, Don Monet, Beth Levin, John Shea, Tony Clark, Anita Utas, Aili Kurtis, Keith Bell

Change Your Life

By Tiffany Teske

Encautic (Wax) Collage

12x12"

Leave No Stone Unturned

By Tiffany Teske

Encautic (Wax) Collage

12x12"

I Hear Your Voice (On the Wind)

By Tiffany Teske

Encautic (Wax) Collage

12x12"

Its Time to Make a Change

By Tiffany Teske

Encautic (Wax) Collage

12x12"

Craft Goodness - Feather Earrings at Craft Cafe

2011-11-29T17:47:00.001-07:00

While the snow gently fell outside in the Bison Courtyard, 9 people gathered inside the Wild Flour to make colourful feather earrings this past Sunday evening at Craft Cafe. It was a nice way to wind down the weekend. Surrounded by all the necessary supplies, piles of gorgeous, vivid feathers became new accessories for the participants and also for gift giving.

Stay tuned for more Craft Cafe fun. We have three dates planned during the month of December...

More Art This Weekend at the Whyte...

2011-11-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

Lone Pine (Norquay)

Polaroid transfer original

3x4"

By Tiffany Teske

$150

I just posted about the Kaleidoscope of Crafts sale at the Whyte Museum this weekend, Friday November 18th, and Saturday, November 19th. If that was not reason enough to make a trip to the Whyte, there is also an exhibition opening in the Swiss Guides room of the Museum on Saturday. It is called Small Treasures, and will feature the work of Alberta artists, many of them local, with an emphasis on smaller, affordable pieces for gift giving. The show will run from November 19th to January 17th, 2012 with an opening reception from 1 - 4 PM on Saturday, November 19th. I have four pieces in the show and will be at the Museum during the opening.

Winter Sun

Polaroid transfer original

3x4"

By Tiffany Teske

$150

Frozen Shadows

Polaroid transfer original

3x4"

By Tiffany Teske

$150

Winter Blossoms

Polaroid transfer original

3x4"

By Tiffany Teske

$150

2011 Kaleidoscope of Crafts at the Whyte Museum

2011-11-17T23:18:00.001-07:00

Oh boy! What a week... probably the busiest week of the year for myself, my husband, and my daughter. For my husband, who is the GM of a ski resort, he is wrapping up projects for getting the season underway.

Quinlyn as a bumble bee...

For my daughter, she had her first ballet recital, with extra practices and two nights of performances. Isn't she sweet...

For me, I have been creating work for three gallery shows coming up in December. The last of that work must be sent off/dropped off on Tuesday. And, I have an art sale this weekend, another in early December, and I am going to have an open house at my home. Phew.

The upcoming art sale is called Kaleidoscope of Crafts, at the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, 111 Bear Street, in Banff. It runs tomorrow, Friday, November 18th, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM (the off to the Library Gala Fundraiser next door). The sale continues on Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Please come by if you can, it is a great place to find handmade goods for yourself or gift giving.

Be Still

Mixed media (wall hanging)

by Tiffany Teske

$45

Bird nest pendant

by Tiffany Teske
$30 (with chain)

You (are a beauty)

Mixed media (wall hanging)

by Tiffany Teske

$45

Tea Cup Gardens - Our Best Craft Cafe Yet!

2011-11-12T16:37:00.001-07:00

Last night, Sheena & I had 26 lovely and creative women join us for Craft Cafe! That is a record. We have had close to 20 before, but this was just amazing! 21 people preregistered, something we have been having trouble getting people to do. I am not sure if it is because the weather is getting colder or if it is because the back to school fall rush is over, but I hope it was because of the craft. I have a tea cup fetish, and I love to come up with ways to use them for things other than just drinking tea, partially because I want to collect more of them. When my friends held a blessingway days before I had my second daughter, I made them all soy tea cup candles, you can see the tutorial here. She is 2 1/2 now, and I haven't done much with my tea cups since. I was in the mood, so with Craft Cafe in mind, I designed what I like to call a little tea cup garden. As a master gardener, in what seems like a previous life, I have done my fair share of using non traditional containers as plant pots. From crockery to work boots to tea cups, I have used them all as planters. The thing that was different about my tea cup planter this time is that I incorporated my current obsession of collaging spoons. When I make a wall hanging out of a spoon, I usually use a large real silver spoon. For this project, I wanted to continue with the theme of recycling vintage elements, and to put to use all the vintage souvenir spoons that I find at the thrift store. In some cases I like the spoons as is, but for the most part they beg to be reworked. Their little size, make them the perfect tea spoons to fit with the theme. I decided to make a sort of garden marker, which didn't need to be a literal marker that contained the name of the jade plant, but instead to contain a sentiment, in this case, Grow. I love to use text in my work, and I love it more when it contains double meaning. So, I designed my little demo, put it up on the net, invited our loyal crafters, and they turned out in droves. More than one of them said they came because the craft is "so unique". Yippee!

Below you will see what was made. While the weather was wet and blustery outside, we were warm and dry in the Wild Flour, planting our jade plants, while chatting with friends. Tables of kids, tables of moms and daughters, table of girlfriends, created their little gardens, which were little works of art. One girl used sand on top of her soil and built a little sand castle! The same girl lined her saucer ring with buttons and collaged her spoon with a great pattern, pulling the whole thing together. Other women covered their saucer with little circles cut from collage sheets, vintage flower fairies being the favourite. Which brings me to the side note, I made some of these with my daughters the other day, as mini fairy gardens. We are still working on our spoons, and I will post about it later. For now, check out what everyone came up with, with very similar, and simple materials. Then, go make one for yourself, and a few more as gifts....

A Dream Come True - My Article in Cloth Paper Scissors Magazine

2011-11-08T23:37:00.001-07:00

I have been enamoured with one magazine for several years now. This love affair with Cloth Paper Scissors started slowly, smoldering as my collection of issues grew, and finally engulfed me after I gave birth to my eldest daughter, Quinlyn. I nursed her on demand, and she demanded so much that she was 26 pounds by 6 months old, and I felt literally trapped under a baby most of the time. I longed so much to work on my art, but never really had the energy, something that most people who know me will never hear me admit. I normally have oodles of energy! The time was bittersweet, since I loved my baby and most parts of being a new mother, but I missed my freedom. Making art is up there with the things that I need to do to live, like breathe and eat. I am not me when I am not being creative. I had some commitments, to a gallery show here and there, and I made what I could, but it was not nearly as much as I was used to. So, I decided if I couldn't physically make as much art as I wanted to, I would be creative in other ways, such as by cooking, photographing my baby, and by reading, reading, reading about techniques I wanted to try. The cooking and photographing came easy, as did the devouring of new techniques, but it was sheer agony not to be able to actually make much. The magazines that I spent the most time reading and rereading, next to Mothering and Vegetarian Times, were Cloth Paper Scissors and Somerset Studios. It was at that time that I made myself the goal of bring published in a magazine. As a photographer I had been featured in several newspapers. And since then, I have had work in Filament, Highline, and PhotoEd Magazines, as well as in the book, 1,000 Ideas for Creative Reuse. All awesome but my heart skipped a beat the day I received my advanced copies of the 39th Issue of CLOTH PAPER SCISSORS, the one that I wrote the Workshop article on Fuji film transfer processes for. I am so happy, proud, amazed (I am still pinching myself that I have been working with the amazing people at Interweave!!) and excited. I own every single issue of this magazine, I even has my mixed media quilt, I Need Your Kindness, appeared in the Muse Flash section several issues ago, but now I am one of only a small number of artists who have shared their knowledge in a Workshop article. CPS even challenged me to make a video of the technique to go with the article. I am on cloud nine. Thanks so much, CPS, Jenn Mason, & Barbara Delaney!

I have worked with Fuji and Polaroid film processes for over 10 years. I have always wanted to write about it...

I love this image of Editor, Jenn Mason, with her vintage Polaroid Land Camera from Ebay...

My bio, fun stuff!

Page one of the article, with two assemblages I made to accompany it.

The Next Craft Cafe - Vintage Tea Cup Gardens - November 11th

2011-11-05T00:28:00.000-06:00

The next Craft Cafe will feature a lesson in gardening, but please, don't worry if you don't have a green thumb! These cute little tea cup gardens could not be easier to plant or to maintain. With the holidays coming up you may be inspired to make a whole group of them to give away as gifts. What a great way to use vintage tea cups and souvenir spoons!

When: Friday, November 11th from 7 - 9 PM

Where: Wild Flour Cafe in Banff (201B 211 Bear Street in the Bison Courtyard)

Cost: For $25 you will receive the vintage tea cup and saucer of your choice, stones, soil, a jade plant, and a souvenir spoon to collage into a garden marker.

Kids 6 and over are welcome to come with their parents and are given a $5 discount.

Bring a friend who has never attended Craft Cafe and you will both received $5 off the NEXT Craft Cafe you attend. You will receive a coupon that can be presented at any future Craft Cafe.

Please sign up and PAY at the Wild Flour prior to the class. If you can't make it to Wild Flour, please contact Tiffany and she can send you a Paypal invoice. Space is limited and in order to have enough supplies we appreciate your advanced registration.

Questions?
Contacts:
Sheena sheenz6@hotmail.com
Tiffany oldesage@hotmail.com

Pumpkin Removal in My Neighbourhood...

2011-11-04T10:50:00.001-06:00

...is taken care of by the animals. Apparently, pumpkins are like candy to them. Technically, this is not allowed, but it is entertaining. Our pumpkins have been composted, which was much less eventful... We live in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. What do you do with your pumpkins when you are done with them? Anything creative?

My Fuji Emulsion Lift Collages Illustrate an Article in Highline Magazine's Winter Issue

2011-11-02T15:50:00.005-06:00

Highline Magazine Winter 2011

I have been working a lot with Fuji emulsion lifts lately. Most of what I have done has been for publication. I was thrilled when Kristy Davison, Publisher of Highline Magazine, asked me to create some art for their Winter 2011 Issue. The magazine is well loved in these parts, since it is created right here in the Bow Valley. Many of my friends have written for or appeared in the pages of this exciting, beautiful, and witty magazine. Having my work, and my bio, appear in Highline, as a contributor, is something I couldn't pass up. PLUS they PAID me. Always a nice thing for an artist... I am good at what I do, and I don't like starving...

Ha Ling

Images by Kristy Davison

Fuji Emulsions Lift by Tiffany Teske

Approx. 5 x6 " on 8 x 10" Watercolour Paper

Ha Ling Range

Images by Kristy Davison

Fuji Emulsion Lifts by Tiffany Teske
Approx 5 x 12", on 9 x 12" Watercolour Paper

The article, written by Highline Editor, Meghan J. Ward, is called "What's In A Name? A Reminder of Things Past" and is about Ha Ling Peak, in Canmore, Alberta. I was asked to make a collage, and I decided that Fuji emulsion lifts of images of the Ha Ling Range, which were shot by Kristy Davison, would illustrate the article womnderfully. I overlapped the images to create the panoramic view of the range. I made a few different pieces for them to chose from. They used the ones above. Below are some of the others I made. If you are in the Bow Valley, you can pick up a free copy of Highline in various coffee shops and stores.

Ha Ling Peak Collage

Image by Kristy Davison

Fuji Emulsion Lift Collage by Tiffany Teske
Approx 3.5 x 4" on 8 x 10" Watercolour Paper

(there are only prints available of this, since the collage elements were set on top of the images and then photographed, not attached directly to the piece)

Ha Ling Peak Collage #2

Images by Kristy Davison

Fuji Emulsion Lift Collage by Tiffany Teske

Original Approx. 5 x6 " on 8 x 10" Watercolour Paper
(there are only prints available of this, since the collage elements were set on top of the images and then photographed, not attached directly to the piece)

All of these original pieces and prints are available for sale. You can get in touch by leaving a comment below.

Happy Halloween From Us To You

2011-10-31T23:43:00.001-06:00

Another Halloween has come and gone... I wish it lasted a week instead of just a day.

Mountain Girl - Quin's Latest Drawing

2011-10-30T23:56:00.001-06:00

My eldest daughter, Quinlyn, who is 5 years old, spend A LOT of time drawing. I dare say, it is one of her favourite things to do. And one of my current favourite drawings is "Mountain Girl". We live in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Quin drew this out of the blue one day, and I immediately found a vintage frame to put it in. It is in our stairwell, and I smile several times a day as I go up and down the stairs.

Mountain Art & Craft Sale at The Banff Centre

2011-10-28T15:25:00.002-06:00

Memories #1

Encaustic Collage by Tiffany Teske

I have been gearing up all week for the 2011 Mountain Art & Craft Sale, this weekend, Saturday, October 29th, & Sunday, October 30th. This will be the second year I sell my work at this sale, which is in conjunction with the Banff Mountain Film & Book Festival. A great place to find unique Christmas items made by mountain artists from Alberta & British Columbia, the sale takes place in the RBC Lobby of the Eric Harvey Theatre. With close to 30 artists, you can find blown glass, paintings, fibre art, photography, clothing items and more, all made by hand. Come see me this weekend, if you can, and meet all the wonderful people who make this show a place that locals look forward to shopping year after year. Hours on Saturday are 11 AM - 7:30 PM and on Sunday from 11 AM - 5:30 PM. I will have encaustic collage, Polaroid transfers, silver spoon assemblages, bird nest & glass tile pendants, and magnets, available.

Glass Tile Ring by Tiffany Teske

Ferns

Polaroid Transfer by Tiffany Teske

Bird Nest Pendant
by Tiffany Teske

Abundance

Spoon Assemblage by Tiffany Teske

International Museum of Women - Call for Submissions

2011-10-26T23:12:00.000-06:00

"Waiting for Eloi"

By Tiffany Teske

This image was made while my friend, Martine, was in labour. This is her son, Axel,

and the baby she gave birth to is Eloi

I became familiar with The International Museum of Women in 2007 when I submitted a story and images about the home birth of my best friend, Martine's, son Eloi, for one of their online exhibitions. Called "Welcoming Eloi" it features four black and white photographs, and four paragraphs of text. It was accepted, and has been on their site ever since.

The mission of I.M.O.W is "to value the lives of women around the world. I.M.O.W. is a groundbreaking social change museum that connects and inspires people with powerful ideas and new ways of thinking that transform women's lives and the world. With its unique focus on cultural change, I.M.O.W. advances the human right to gender equity worldwide."

I. M. O. W is currently accepting submission from artists, film makers, photographers, musicians, and writers, for an upcoming online exhibit entitled "Your Voices: On Motherhood". You can check out a video about the submissions here. Or you can check out submission guidelines on their website here. I hope to submit another essay myself. Why not add your voice? The deadline is Monday, October 31st, 2011.

Alberta Arts Day at My Daughter's School

2011-10-24T15:31:00.000-06:00

On September 30th, 2011, I was the "artist - in - residence" at my daughter's school. I was asked to help with a school-wide project that coincided with Alberta Arts Days, a three day long celebration of arts and culture in Alberta. Quin goes to a Francophone school, which is entirely in French. I am ok in French, but my husband was raised in French and English and is fully bilingual. I try my best, and I think that opportunities to help like this are great for both my learning more French and for the children to learn more art.

Cecile busy at work...

Cecile Kessler, who runs the after school program, asked me to assist in facilitating this project with her. Last year she bought several 3 foot by 3 foot canvases with the hopes that the classes would each paint one to decorate the community centre in the basement of the school. She decided that Alberta Arts Days would be a good time to do this. The canvases will grace the walls of the centre, and will later be auctioned off with the money raised going back into arts education.

This painting uses the kids' hand and foot prints...

The students and teachers were given the theme, ouverture sur le monde, which is kind of like "gateway to the world" or "open to the world". They had a couple of weeks to think about what they might like to do on their canvases and by the time I arrived they were all ready to jump in and get started with their projects. I was just there to lend a hand, to run and grab materials they needed, and to give any advice if asked. They all did a wonderful job working together and making their vision for their canvases a reality. It was inspiring to watch them at work, and I am truly happy I was a part of the day.

My daughter, Quin, surveying her class canvas...

I don't show kids on my blog without their parents' permission. Because of this, I only have one image of my daughter and the rest of the images focus on the actual art work....

A student places an image from a magazine on the collage...

This class decided to make a paper mosaic on this peace symbol, using images from magazines

One of the finished collages...

Another amazing collage...isn't inspiring?

Merci beaucoup for asking me to be a part of your art day! I hope to see you again soon...

Canmore Leader Article about Hot Flash (Encaustics Show at Elevation Gallery)

2011-10-23T10:19:00.000-06:00

My friend, Cheryl, & I, at Hot Flash

Hot Flash
By Corrie DiManno

CANMORE - "I wanted to know, am I doing everything right, because it's very difficult. It turns out yes; I'm doing it right, but my way. And there's the other way which I've learned this weekend."

This is what encaustic artist Pascale Ouellet (Bigoudi) got out of the weekend's workshop hosted by Seattle-based artist Debra Van Tuinen as a part of Elevation Gallery's latest exhibition called Hot Flash: A survey of encaustics.

Ouellet, who has four new pieces in the show, attended the workshop to see how her way of using wax matches up with the way other artists in the medium use it.

"This is new versus old," she said describing the way she and Calgary-based Teresa Posyniak use wax. And ironically enough, it was Posyniak who opened up Ouellet to encaustics about five years ago. "We use a new technique and a different kind of wax, this is a more traditional way."

But even though it's two different worlds of wax, Ouellet took away a lot from the workshop, even a few techniques she might try in the future, like working with heat guns and irons to fuse the wax, a process she doesn't do. But as she said earlier, she's made the medium her own.

"I work really fast and this is really fast, so if it gets too finicky, it doesn't work for me. It's just good to learn and see what you do right and what you do wrong."However, it's safe to say Ouellet is doing it right with the digital printing she had done for the first time as the backgrounds on her new paintings. The backgrounds serve as the types of wallpapers that Ouellet is drawn to, because although ideally it's wallpaper she really wants on the canvas, wallpaper itself is not archival quality, so she used digital printing in its place.

"I've always been fascinated with the patterns, especially the ones from the 50s," she said. "I wanted to do something special for this series."

An addition to Hot Flash was the inclusion of several pieces made from Van Tuinen's two-day workshop before the opening reception on Sunday, Oct. 16. Mixed media artist Tiffany Teske was one of the nine participants in the workshop and had two encaustic artworks placed in Hot Flash. Teske said the workshop was a huge departure from what she normally does, which is using beeswax without pigment and creating smooth, glasslike surfaces.

Both of these techniques Teske sticks to were unglued, as both of her finished products, one called Rivers and Roads and the other Forever Thine, incorporated lessons Van Tuinen taught.

"She'd show us the technique and we'd get to work and really make something," Teske said.

Following the instructions, Teske left a lot of texture in her work and used reds and blues in her waxes, rather than leaving them clear like she usually does.

"I think it's important to constantly be learning, for me anyways, I'm so curious about everything."

corrie@thecrag.ca

Encaustic Workshop with Debra Van Tuinen at Elevation Gallery

2011-10-21T01:31:00.001-06:00

Late last week, I took part in a two day encaustic workshop, hosted by Elevation Gallery in Canmore. I was invited to attend earlier in the week, and after seeing the work of Portland, Oregon based artist, Debra Van Tuinen, I was keen to participate. The workshop was on a Friday & Saturday, and with my husband's schedule in full swing for the upcoming ski season, I had to wrangle last minute child care before I could say yes. All the pieces fell into place thanks to some good friends.

I was thrilled to and grateful to spend two days learning, creating, and meeting other artists. I first learned about encaustic when taking a materials class taught by my friend Mahshid Farhoudi, at the Ottawa School of Art. We learned to make oil paint, acrylic paint, egg tempura, encaustic, and how to stretch and prime canvases with handmade gesso. I loved the course, and pretty much decided that the only one of the above that I would make again would be encaustics. We were not given a lot of time to actually use the materials in that course, so my pucks of encaustic medium remained in my studio. Just before Quin was born, I tried a bit of beeswax collage. I did many things wrong, such as using canvas, and not fusing between layers of wax, so the piece now needs some repair (which I am happy to say I can do, as soon as I have a minute...). After that, I collected some beeswax from my friend's beekeeper stepfather, but didn't work with wax again until about three months ago. I decided it was time. I heated up the crockpot, melted some wax, and started making encaustic collage. Just as I have felt with many things in my art career, I knew that once I had the time to play with this medium, that I would fall hard and fast in love.

And then, as often is the case, the opportunity to attend this workshop, fell into my lap. I knew I needed to make my best effort to attend. I am so glad that I did. Debra is a generous teacher, and she answered my questions, while teaching me what she has learned first hand at R&F Paints, and from her years of working with encaustic. I also met Teresa Posyniak, from Calgary, and Pascale Ouellet/Bigoudi, from Canmore. I have read a lot about Pascale's work and have been wanting to meet her. There were nine participants in the class, all working artists, something Debra really enjoyed. She was happy to be able to demo the techniques and then watch as we all got down to business.

On the first day, Debra taught us about different ways to work with the medium and encouraged us to play. I spent a bit of time with texture, building up and layering the wax, and lightly fusing. When I use wax in collage, I work a long time to make the surface flat. During the second part of the day, I did fuse my layers so they would melt. In the end, I made three backgrounds and one finished 6x6" painting. Most of the day was spent creating abstraction. I appreciate abstraction, but since I normally work with images and text, I was missing those elements. I do think it was valuable for me to just play, and not to think about finishing a piece.

Background #1

Background #2

Background #3

Rivers & Roads (By Tiffany Teske)

Encaustic on board

6x6"

On the second day, Debra taught us how to make monotypes. I dabbled in it a bit, but would really like more time to explore this technique, using different types of paper, and of course, mixing media. All I need it a flat griddle, a piece of aluminum, and encaustic medium. We also learned how to make our own crayons using pigments, which is what I learned way back when from Mahshid. The final demo was on encaustic collage. From what I could tell, that is something I have experience in that most of the other students did not.

Debra showing us how to make a monotype...

The pressure was on us all on the second day. Elevation was planning an encaustic exhibition, Hot Flash, for the next day. Most of the art was chosen and ready to go, but to give the workshop participants an opportunity to show their work, Cheryl Baxter, the owner of Elevation, held a critique during which some of our pieces were chosen for the exhibition. I wanted to make something unlike I had ever made, but at the same time, I wanted to have something suitable for the show. I will admit that at one point, with only three hours to go, I panicked and ran to my bag of collage materials. I began to plan out a fairly easy piece that I knew I would finish in time. However, I shook myself, and returned to my work space, determined to create a piece using gold leaf, which was my original plan. The piece has no text and no images. It came together not only in time, but in a more pleasing way that I had hoped. It was only later, when titling the piece that I realized how personal it is. I learned a lot while making it, which after all, is the point of the whole class. I really enjoyed this workshop and I am so happy that I was able to be a part of it. I hope to one day visit Debra in Portland.

Teresa Posyniak's pieces

Pascale Ouelett fuses a piece...

Forever Thine (By Tiffany Teske)

Encaustic on board with gold leaf

12x12"

This piece reminds me of my grandparents who were married for 66 years.

Debra & I at the opening of Hot Flash

Hot Flash runs from October 16th - 23rd, 2011, at Elevation Gallery, #100 729 Main Street, Canmore, Alberta.

My YouTube Video - Fuji Emulsion Lifts & Transfers

2011-10-18T23:44:00.000-06:00

I have stared in a YouTube video. I guess it was time for that experience... I recently wrote an article on Fuji emulsion lifts and transfer, which will appear in the Workshop section of Cloth Paper Scissors Magazine's November/December issue. The editor, Jenn Mason, asked me if I would be willing to make a YouTube video of the process, to link to the article. I enlisted a friend, Jason MacQueen, who filmed it for me. The subject matter is pretty specific, but if you feel like watching it, please let me know what you think...

Another Awesome Craft Cafe - Wet Felting

2011-10-17T14:26:00.002-06:00

A selection of Cindy's felted zipper pulls & beads

Craft Cafe has been going strong since March. We have had workshops in everything from chocolate making to tea blending to mail art to glass tile pendant making. One of the things that Sheena & I love about Craft Cafe is that we can involve many different people from the community in our endeavour to inspire people to be creative. From the support of Peter and Brooke, at the Wild Flour Cafe, who open their venue to us, to the use of a local designer and printer for our posters, to inviting local business owners and artists to lead workshops, Craft Cafe is meant to be a community collaboration. Last night, we were pleased to welcome Cindy Gibson, a good friend of mine, who is as a felt maker, knitter, writer, and mosaic artist. About 2 years ago, Cindy came to my home and gave me a private lesson in turning wool roving into felted beads. She makes larger beads and turns them into zipper pulls. With winter coming, and with people thinking about holiday gifts, I thought this would be a great workshop for Craft Cafe. We had a nice turn out of 9 participants, who played with the gorgeous colours of roving, and learned from Cindy. They squished and rolled their roving into beautiful balls of felt, added some lovely yarn, and wore them home proudly. My favourite things about Craft Cafe is watching people, some of whom have not been creative in a long time, leave with a finished project that they love. Stay tuned for the next Craft Cafe, to be announced soon....

Cindy showing everyone how to get started in felting...

Wool roving in luscious colours...

Brooke, Sheena, & I up to our usual silly antics...

Wool roving from Custom Woolen Mills in Carstairs, Alberta

Some of our younger ladies rolling their beads...

My beads...

Rolling, rolling, rolling...

We hope to see you at the next Craft Cafe!!

Reminder: The Next Craft Cafe, Wet Felting, Is THIS Sunday, Oct 16th, 2011

2011-10-14T23:05:00.000-06:00

I am up to my eyeballs in beautiful wool roving from Custom Woolen Mills in Carstairs. If you are interested in learning how to wet felt beads and zipper pulls, please come and join at at Craft Cafe, this Sunday, October 16th, from 7 - 9 PM, at Wild Flour Cafe in Banff. For all the details, and photos of the projects, please see this post
.

Featured in the Light Leaks Gallery, the LAST Issue, Sniff, Sniff....

2011-10-13T12:59:00.000-06:00

Light Leaks Magazine, Issue 19, Secrets

Light Leaks, Issue #19, arrived in my mailbox yesterday. It was a bittersweet moment, because I knew one of my images was being featured in the gallery, but I also knew it was the last issue ever. Yet another one of my favourite magazines is no longer being printed. Here is what Mike Barnes and his wife, Rachel, had to say about their decision, in an email sent out about 2.5 months ago:

"As you know, we have struggled to keep Light Leaks in print over the past year. We had an excellent plan—with the addition of the Light Leaks Shop and Holgapalooza we felt the financial difficulties could be resolved. Unfortunately those additions required more of our own time. With a growing young family, free time has quickly become our most precious commodity.

While we enjoyed working on Light Leaks over the years, we have come to a point where we must focus on our own careers to support our family. My own interest in toy camera photography has always been a hobby, not a profession. Unfortunately as much as I loved putting together Light Leaks I spent most of my time putting together a magazine about toy cameras, but not actually being able to use those toy cameras myself!

Contributing to each issue of Light Leaks magazine was (I think) an excellent use of my time, and I think all those who contributed will feel the same way. It was always a labour of love for an end product that never lacked in quality. For all of you that have been scoffed at for wielding your beloved low-fi cameras, Light Leaks represented you and why you love what you do.

For current subscribers, you believed in us, and we thank you for that. We would be honoured to have you consider your unfulfilled subscription a donation into helping us pay our final printing payments. We can offer you some of the remaining back issues that we have left, or some of the digital versions we have created (which also includes The Toycam Handbook), however supplies are limited. In addition to creating some revenue from the digital issues, we have had to sell off our entire store inventory to help get this last issue to you.

We will be closing the Light Leaks shop, but keeping www.lightleaks.org open along with links to the digital versions.

We want to thank you all for supporting our humble magazine, and especially to those who contributed over the years, particularly Gary Moyer, Steph Parke, and of course my wife, Rachel who did a lot of the work behind the scenes. Best to you all in your future low-fi photographic adventures!

Mike Barnes (toycamera@rogers.com)"

My little one...

...hamming it up

My image, Talking Walls, is a Holgaroid double exposure, made using a Holga CNF 120 with a Polaroid back. The original image is on chocolate Type 80 film from impossible project, which has shades of brown and pink, but it was printed in black and white for the magazine.

My photography also appeared in Issue 13, Road Trip and Issue 14, Childhood.

Goodbye, Light Leaks. You were a stellar Canadian publication that toy camera lovers around the world will always remember fondly. Thanks so much!

My Latest Highline Magazine Blog Post - The Art of Snail Mail: Making the Internet Obsolete

2011-10-11T12:50:00.000-06:00

Mail Art postcard I made for my husband, for our anniversary,

using a vintage postcard of the Canadian Rockies, and rub-on letters

My latest post on the Highline Magazine Blog is about Mail Art. We recently enjoyed an evening of creating snail mail at Craft Cafe. Want to learn more about this global, collaborative, art making and sharing movement, please read the Highline post here.

Using an analog typewriter I typed out a love note to my hubby...

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada!! And 365 Days With Kiddos #35 - Make A List of What You Are Thankful For

2011-10-10T14:58:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving in the Canadian Rockies

Thanksgiving is my favourite holiday (next to Valentine's Day, since I am a romantic...). In Canada, today is Thanksgiving. I grew up in the US, where today is Columbus Day. I have the option now of having two Thanksgivings a year, but since I have been a vegetarian since I was 13 years old, I am not much for the turkey part of the turkey dinner, so we often only celebrate the October date. Maybe this year we will do US Thanksgiving, but with a twist. I know most people love their turkey dinner, but since they will have had it, maybe they can come to my US Thanksgiving....

Quin is looking forward to turkey dinner...

We had a lovely dinner at the home of friends last night. The weather was nice, very classically fall. My good friend, Karina Bergmans, joined us, as she is here for a three week artist residency at the Banff Centre.

Quinlyn, Karina, Emmanuelle & I

Today, the girls and I decided to take the time to write down some of the things we are thankful for. We each had a turn, and we each had many more things to be thankful for than we had room for on the page. Life is good! I think this is a fun and important exercise to do each and every year. We frequently talk about the things we are thankful for, but to sit down and spend some time thinking on it is important.

What we are thankful for...

Birds remind me of my late grandfather...

It is important to live in the present, which makes for amazing memories...

Do you have any Thanksgiving rituals you would like to share? Please leave me a comment below....

TV Spot on RTown TV Related to Capture the Fall Colours at the Whyte Museum

2011-10-09T17:23:00.000-06:00

I was recently interviewed by RTown TV about being part of the Capture the Fall Colours show at the Whyte Museum. You can see the video here. There is a menu of videos below the main video screen. Just click on the one that says "Resort Report October". It is about a minute long and I appear for about 5 seconds. I never love to be on TV or radio but I also never pass up the opportunity. It is important as an artist to be able to talk about what you do when you are approached to do so...

Weekly Recipe - Babz's "Tweeked" Pumpkin Bread Re-Tweeked By Me

2011-10-08T13:30:00.001-06:00

Babz & Emmanuelle having tea

Last Friday, Emmanuelle & I went to the home of my friend, Babz, for tea. Babz has mad skills with a hula hoop. Check her out (she is the one in white)! I always have a lot of fun hanging out with Babyz. We are both part of the Nine Arts group booth at the Canmore Mountain Market. We hadn't been there for more than a few minutes before she had made us tea, cut us some homemade pumpkin bread and lead us out onto her deck into the still gorgeous fall weather. What a lovely way to spend an afternoon. The bread was sooooooooo good, I had to have the recipe, and true to her more than generous nature, Babz handed it over. And when I say handed it over, I don't mean she orally told it to me while I wrote it down, this girl (like me) has actual RECIPE CARDS! And not just any recipe cards, but illustrated recipe cards from a delightful artist on Etsy, named Susie Ghahremani, also know as boygirlparty. You can see Babz's recipe below. I like most that she named it Babz's Tweeked Pumpkin Bread. I believe this was the third version from the original.

Seriously, is there anything cuter than a bunny with a frying pan...

...well maybe squirrels with chef hats, another with an apron, & another with an egg beater!

Babz & Tiffany's Tweeked Pumpkin Bread

Just to be me, I went and tweeked the recipe even more. My recipe is as follows:

Babz & Tiffany's Tweeked Pumpkin Bread
Makes 2 Loaves
~ 1 large can of pumpkin
~ 4 eggs
~ 1/2 cup of oil
~ 2 cups of natural raw sugar (Babz uses 3!!)
~ 1 1/2 cups of unbleached white flour
~ 2 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour
~ 2 1/4 tsp baking soda
~ 2 tsp cinnamon
~ 1 tsp nutmeg
~ 1 tsp ground cloves
~ 1 tsp ginger

1. Grease pans. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Mix wet ingredients well in one bowl.
3. Mix dry ingredients well in another bowl.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. If you over mix you will have tough bread.
5. Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes. I live in the mountains where nothing ever seems to bake in the time a recipe says. Check the bread by inserting a toothpick or piece of spaghetti into the middle of the loaf. If it comes out clean, It is done.

This is a quick and easy recipe that results in two wonderful loves of bread, which is enough for us to both eat and share. We took one of our loaves, along with a dish of butter, to share with other at a community potluck dinner. It was gobbled up pretty quickly, We also shared some bread with our friends, Dea & Millie, at our home, along with tea. And while we were eating it, a beautiful double rainbow stretched across the sky. What a wonderful couple of days we had, while giving and receiving this awesome bread.

Ahhhh, friends + pumpkin bread = rainbows (I am such a geek...)

Do you have a bread recipe you love and would be willing to share? If you make this recipe, and tweek it, please let me know how it was...

Finalist in "A Little Me" Cloth Paper Scissors Self Portrait Challenge

2011-10-06T00:25:00.000-06:00

I thought I had already blogged about this!! I am not sure if you read this post, about the pieces I submitted to the Cloth Paper Scissors Self Portrait Challenge. Well, my piece "Authentically Me" was chosen as a finalist! CPS had so many great submissions that they decided to pick finalists, and to have the artists send their work to the CPS studios. Now, they were due October 3rd, which means that I should know pretty soon whether this piece as chosen to be featured in the January/February 2012 issue. Fingers crossed... stay tuned....

365 Days with Kiddos - #34 - Look Down, Find Treasures

2011-10-04T23:25:00.000-06:00

Just some of the things we have collected recently....

Ok, ok, it has been a very LOOOONNNNGGGGG time since I posted a 365 Days with Kiddos. Very long. This doesn't mean I haven't been doing creative things with my kiddos, it just means I have been doing sooooo many that I have not had time on top of everything else to blog about them. Shame, shame. I am sorry...My kids and I have many opportunities when walking around town to find treasures. These treasures may not be what many people consider to be treasures. In fact, aside from the occasional coin, they are not worth anything at all in monetary value. They are the kinds of things that one may need a good imagination to consider valuable. Fortunately, we have that. Many of my finds make their way into my art. The rest go into the kids' art, on the awesome moulding halfway up the wall in most of our house, in bowls, on top of the mantle, in pockets, in our backyard, even in the car, and sometimes to show and tell. These treasures are rocks & stones, sticks, bark, pine cones, seashells (if we are near the ocean), feathers, pottery shards, rusty bits like bottle caps, hardware, wire, and pull tabs, and random things like broken jewellery, ribbons scraps, and recently, a pencil split in two the long way. I know, I know, some of you stopped cold when you read, "feathers, pottery shards, and rusty bits". Now, please don't worry, we are all professionals at this collecting. We know all about safety first. If my kids see something unusual that they are not sure about, they ask me before they pick it up. All of our finds can be washed, and we wash our hands once we are finished. We have not had one injury or illness as a result of this treasure hunting. It has only resulted in a heightened sense of possibility (in finding ways to use our finds), in a better job of enjoying the present (instead of being focused on what will happen when we get to our destination, we are focused on the actual journey), and an ability to see the beauty all kinds of things (instead of letting everyone else tell us what is beautiful). My kids are full of smiles when they find something interesting, and there is nothing better than hearing, "Mommy, mommy, look what I found!"

One day, we decided to look under the trees on a small piece of property in the centre of town.

We found 16 feathers in 5 minutes. I often use feathers in my art.

Do you collect things when out walking? I would love to hear about them...

The Next Craft Cafe - Felted Beads, Zipper Pulls, & Stones - Sun Oct 16th from 7 - 9 PM‏

2011-10-03T12:55:00.001-06:00

Zipper pulls by Cindy Gibson

Have you ever wanted to learn how to wet felt? Come to Craft Cafe for just one evening, and you will be well on your way! Join Sheena & Tiffany, on Sunday, October 16th from 7 - 9 PM, as we welcome Banff local and felting/knitting talent, Cindy Gibson. Cindy will teach us how to make fun and unique felted zipper pulls, which also make great gifts. In the process of learning to make the zipper pulls, you will learn to make felted beads, which can be embellished with smaller beads and/or sequins and strung into necklaces or made into earrings. We will get your inspiration going so you can head home with lots of ideas on how to go even further with what you have learned. Tiffany will also give a short demo on making felted stones.The Wild Flour is located at 211 Bear Street in Banff, will be open for delicious snacks and drinks.Cost is 20$ which covers your supplies for making at least one zipper pull and several beads. Kids 6 and over are welcome to come with their parents and are given a $5 discount.Please sign up and PAY at the Wild Flour prior to the class. If you can't make it to Wild Flour, please contact Tiffany and she can send you a Paypal invoice. Space is limited.NEW THIS TIME: Bring a friend who has never attended Craft Cafe and you will both received $5 off the NEXT Craft Cafe you attend. You will receive a coupon that can be presented at any future Craft Cafe.Questions?Contacts:Sheena sheenz6@hotmail.comTiffany oldesage@hotmail.comOr feel free to leave a comment below after checking out the images of what we will make...

Beads by Tiffany Teske

Zipper pulls by Cindy Gibson

Beads by Tiffany Teske

Zipper pulls by Cindy Gibson

Whyte Museum "Capture the Colours of Fall" Exhibition Opening

2011-10-02T00:18:00.000-06:00

In the province where I live, Alberta, there is a three day annual celebration called Alberta Art Days. This year's dates are September 30th - October 2nd.

I have had a packed couple of art-filled days. Today, I was supposed to assist with another Personalized Paddles event but it was raining cats and dogs, plus it was COLD, so my role was cancelled. I never really sweat these type of last minute changes in my schedule, since they usually end up happening for a reason. And so today, rather than sneak away from my post for a short while to attend an opening for a show that my work is in, I was actually able to go to the opening for several hours. This allowed for several opportunities including perusing the art with my family who then left so I could to talk with the curator (and glass artist), Ciara Hossick, learn from and talk shop with fellow fine art film photographer, Joseph Kurucz, and to film a spontaneous spot for Resort TV. The show, "Capture the Colours of Fall" is hosted by The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, and will run until November 15th, 2011. The show is in the Swiss Guides room and features 20 Alberta artists.

Mad About Buttons - A Craft Cafe for the Button Crazed

2011-10-01T00:51:00.003-06:00

{Pretty Buttons}

Last night's Craft Cafe was awesome! It was on a Thursday evening, which turns out didn't work very well for our regulars, but we had some new ladies and some repeat crafters, for a total of five. Turns out, for this first go with the button necklace, it was the perfect amount of people for Sheena and I to help, and to also get some of our own crafting done. We demonstrated how to do a simple stitched necklace and a more complicated two needle style which ends up looking like the buttons were run through a sewing machine, then we turned everyone loose to let the fun ensue. Amid sips of tea and coffee, everyone chatted and created, in the cozy Wild Flour. This was the first time in a long while that the sun went down while we were there, which means winter is coming. My favourite parts of the evening, are when Chloe struck out on her own, as a renegade crafter, creating her own style (with the engineering help of Kristy) of elastic bracalet, and when a girl named Maggie, who happened to be passing by outside, looked in, saw what we were doing, came in, exclaimed, "I love making button necklaces" and pulled one out of her purse!

Maggie, a girl after out own heart. Not only does she make buttons necklaces, she had one in her bag when she randomly walked by Craft Cafe, so she came in to show us!

The Ladies

Chloe's renegade bracalet

{More Pretty Buttons}

Stephanie's necklace is coming together...

Have you met Sheena, she loves to ham it up...

I always photograph Sheena at least once, while she is photographing something, as a general rule...

{Your Lovely Craftinistas}


Miho got the double stitch down in no time flat!


Kristy wins points for the best technique thank to the safety pin she had in her bag


Kat watched once and took it from there.

Do you like to make things with buttons? Leave a comment about what you make... If you are interested in attending a Craft Cafe or bring put on the email lost please leave a comment below....

Craft Paddling in Lake Louise & Banff

2011-09-29T11:00:00.000-06:00

Personalized Paddles

I live in a postcard. I live in Banff National Park, a town that only has 8,244 people, but that hosts 5 million visitors each year. Banff is a small town (although I have lived in a towns of 225 people and 1,000 people, so it isn't really THAT small) that is also very cosmopolitan. I love living here, as an artist there are many opportunities to connect with locals and visitors alike, through teaching classes, participating in festivals and special events, as well as by showing my work in exhibitions. This summer I was given the opportunity to have an ongoing arts & crafts gig with Banff Heritage Tourism. John Bowden, the director of BHT, originally asked my friend, prolific artist and children's book author, Max Elliott, who was in the middle of some projects, and who recommended me (thanks, Max!). John worked with the Banff High School shop class to have miniature paddles made that kids and adults alike have had the opportunity to paint, collage, and draw on, while enjoying Banff. So far, I have helped out on three different dates, with one more to come. If you are in Banff this Saturday, October 1st, we will be outside the Banff Park Museum from noon to 4 PM, as part of the Alberta Arts Days Weekend.

My kiddos at Lake Louise

My most recent date was a couple of weeks ago in Lake Louise. I really enjoy any chance I have to spend time in this beautiful place. Like Banff, it is so rich in history, and so many people that I know, including my father as a boy, have been to this place. We stay in Lake Louise every November during the Men's Work Cup Downhill, but had not been there since then. Andre brought our kids out to meet up with me, and to take in an aboriginal performance happening in tandem with the paddle painting. All in all, a wonderful day in Banff National Park.

Touching the Lake

Below you will see a little photo essay on the paddle painting fun...

PS I would like to thank Adrienne Lawlor, and Maya and Liam Baylis for helping me out of a jam during one of the paddle painting dates. Thanks so much, I really appreciate it!!

My Sunshine on a Rainy Day

2011-09-27T23:25:00.000-06:00

Nothing like picking up this beautiful girl at the bus stop, then walking home amongst the raindrops & the golden leaves... makes an otherwise cold and grey day much more tolerable...

Capture the Colour of Fall Exhibition at the Whyte Museum

2011-09-27T00:48:00.002-06:00

Bankhead #2 by Tiffany TeskeOriginal Fuji Emulsion Liftsapprox. 3x8", matted & framed 8x10"

Fall is my favourite time of year. I smile when I see the yellow leaves blowing past my feet and when I hear them crunching underfoot. The fresh, crisp air makes me feel alive as I play outdoors with my kiddos. I have always enjoyed capturing fall with my camera so I was excited when I saw the Whyte Museums call for local art with an autumn theme. One of the places I love the most in Banff is the Whyte Museum. This area is steeped in history and there is so much to learn about it at the Whyte. They also regularly host juried shows that feature local artists. I currently have work in an exhibition in their Swiss Guides Room, as part of their Blossoms and Botanicals Show. The next show is, Capture the Colour of Fall, and I had three pieces selected from my submission. I delivered them today, as the wind blew the leaves from the trees. The show runs from October 1st to November 15th and the opening reception will be on October 1st from 1 - 4 PM. This opening coincides with Alberta Arts Days. I will be at the opening from 1 - 2 PM that day, if you would like to come by and say hi. And if you can't make it, the pieces are shown here... have a happy fall!

Golden Leaf by Tiffany Teske

Original Fuji Emulsion Lift

approx. 3x4", matted & framed 8x10"

Bankhead #1 by Tiffany Teske

Original Fuji Emulsion Lifts

approx. 3x8", matted & framed 8x10"

The Next Craft Cafe - Wild About Buttons - Thursday, September 29th, 2011

2011-09-25T01:20:00.000-06:00

Button Necklace by Tiffany TeskeButton lovers... come on out to the Wild Flour Bakery (211 Bear Street, Banff) from 7 - 9 PM on Thursday, September 29th, to make unique handmade button necklaces.Participants will have the option to make additional projects like earrings or bracelets. Whatever time permits!The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks, and drinks.Cost: 20$ Please sign up and PAY at the Wild Flour or request a Paypal invoice by leaving a comment below. Space is limited. FACEBOOK is not registration.Spread the word and collect some buttons! Any vintage and wood buttons make beautiful necklaces. This is a great way to recycle We will also have some funky buttons for you to choose from.See you there! Bring a button loving friend, they will thank you...

Button Bracelet/Necklace by Tiffany TeskeThis is a button choker I made that was featured in the book, 1,000 Ideas for Creative ReUse by Garth Johnson. I will also show participants how to make this style, which is much different than the long necklace style in the photo above.

Button Choker by Tiffany TeskeDo you make things with buttons? I would love to see... leave me a comment with a link!

End of the Season at Cascade Gardens

2011-09-23T01:35:00.000-06:00

About two weeks ago my kiddos, our neighbour, Sue, & I took a walk into town. It was a beautiful Saturday, and while I usually have a ton on my plate, I had nothing that needed to be done. My hubby was finishing up a painting project in our garage, and needed the kids, who associate Daddy with bikes and play time if he is near the garage, out of his hair. We ambled to town, where a triathlon was finishing up. One of the things I like most about living in a National Park, is that there is always something going on. We walked to Shakes, to have one of our favourite things, Bubble Tea. If you have not had one, find somewhere to try one, NOW! I became addicted to them when I lived in Ottawa, and could get them on Somerset in Chinatown. On our walk back home, we stopped at the Cascade Gardens, which provide a lovely little shortcut to our house. The Gardens were amazing, and I kicked myself for normally walking the other way to town. How could I have been missing all of these beautiful poppies and African daisies? As tourists snapped away, so did I. And I felt grateful, once again, to live in such an amazing place, and happy that we walked through the gardens before the frosty mornings got to the flowers.

Three Artists on a Day Trip - High River & Nanton, Alberta - Part Two

2011-09-21T01:01:00.000-06:00

If you missed Part One you can read it here....

Self Portrait in antique store, Nanton

After Dea, Millie, and I left High River, we headed to Nanton. Dea is working on an artists book, and the images that inspired it, were from Nanton. She had originally wanted to make collage using the images, but decided there was enough of a story line to warrant a book. And since she now NEEDED more photos for her book, and since one of my hobbies is collecting old images of other peoples' families, I begged to go along.

Ghost from the past.

The hands of time have stopped...

I heart cigar boxes...

Oh yes, another self portrait

Millie & I

Every orphaned typewriter I see, I want to take home...

Dea & Millie at the Tumbleweed Cafe

Oh, I am SURE we will!

Ladybugs were everywhere at Annie's in High River, we ended up with a stow away....

Dea did find her photos and letters. I found some as well. And some more silverware for my spoon assemblages, a few books, some buttons, and a charming little camera, all to be shared another day....

Where is your favourite place to hunt for treasures?

Three Artists on a Day Trip - High River & Nanton, Alberta - Part One

2011-09-18T23:27:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday, my wonderful hubby stayed home with our kiddos while I went on a highly anticipated day trip with my dear friend, Dea Fischer, and her amazing daughter, Millie Rose. None of us are morning people, so it is nice that nothing was open at our final destination until noon. We rolled out of Canmore in Dea's jeep, our first stop: High River...

When you get three artists into a car, with nothing to do but look at the scenery and chat, of course we talk about art. Actually, I think we talk about art everywhere... anyway, it was a real treat to get to talk with Dea about our separate and joint ventures. We both always have something on the go, and it is nice to hear about what the other is up to. We just completed joint and single submissions to the 2012 CREATE in California and are working on a book proposal...

After about 2 hours, maybe it was less, we arrived in the beautiful little town of High River. The gorgeous little houses struck me right away. I live in a completely over priced condo/town house in Banff. I get house envy when I go to small towns like this because I know I could have a huge house with a huge yard and garden if I lived anywhere other than Banff. But, of course, not many people have the privilege I do, being able to actually live in a National Park, so I accept and love our little abode in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. But, the artist in me dreams of a more picturesque home, instead of a cookie cutter one... oh well.

Our mission in High River was to visit our friend, artist and owner of Art and Soul Gallery, Annie Froese. I met her while giving artist demonstrations at Canmore's ArtsPeak Arts Festival earlier this year. She and her friend, Larissa Mclean, were sharing a studio in the same area I was, as part of The Edge Gallery's, leg of the art tour. They are both colourful, beautiful women, who make colourful, beautiful art. We traded work and contact info and promised to see each other again. I bumped into Larissa at the Canmore Mountain Market a couple of weeks ago, by surprise. I am glad I did because she was not able to be there to meet us. Annie, invited us to come to her gallery for a little show and tell of our work.

As we were looking for Art & Soul, Dea noticed some beautiful geraniums along the sidewalk, and exclaimed, "That must be it!". She was right. Both Annie & Larissa are synonymous with flowers, in my mind. We parked the car and headed to the back of the gallery where Annie's garden and her studio is. Both are so lovely!!

We spent a couple of hours enjoying the gardens, exploring the gallery, drooling over Annie's studio space, eating lemon meringue pie, photographing one another, show and telling our latest work, and making plans for future visits. Dea & I would love to teach classes at Annie's one weekend, and to play with Annie in art making as well.

Here are some photos of the fun we had... you will notice a couple of photos of ladybugs. They were everywhere and an element of the trip that I will always remember...

Part Two will continue our fun with photos and tales from Nanton...

Quinny's First Day of Ballet

2011-09-16T00:21:00.000-06:00

I studied ballet and pointe for 12 years. I also learned tap, jazz, and character. I have fond memories of those days and have always hoped to join an adult ballet class. I am not one to push the things I like onto my children so when Quin asked to take ballet last year I was happy it was her own idea. And as long as she wants to study it, I will find a way to make it happen. This was her first day, earlier this week (I love her Converse High Tops with her ballet wear)...

Mail Art Fun at Craft Cafe

2011-09-12T01:15:00.001-06:00

Claire Wilkinson of the Banff Snail Mail Society

On Friday night, we were lucky enough to have Claire Wilkinson, of the Banff Snail Mail Society, at Craft Cafe. The first time I heard of Claire was at the Banff Public Library, a place I am quite fond of. When I walked in and read a poster saying that on Thursday nights I could make mail art, using vintage typewriters, I was sold. But, at the time, I had a wee one, and evenings were difficult for activities. Fast forward to this summer, when I started to talk with Claire at the Banff Community Greenhouse, where we both have a plot. By the end of the conversation, I had figured out who she was. I asked her about an upcoming workshop she was holding, and about some supplies I was looking for, and she sweetly wrote back to me via Etsy, where I have a shop. Ever since then, I have been wanting to invite her to Craft Cafe. I finally did and was thrilled when she said, "YES!"

Mail Art by Sheena Miller

Mail art started in the 1960s, and is simply visual art that goes through the postal system. Here is a brief history.

I plan to write a blog post for Highline Magazine about Claire's evening at Craft Cafe, so I won't spill the beans here. Just wanted to share a couple of photos. And to say how pleased I am that Claire generously provided a little maintenance for my little gem of a typewriter. She gave me a new ribbon for it, is reinking my old one, and taught me that I have a highly sought after machine. It is from 1949 and they sell for up to a $1,000 completely refurbished!! I won't part with mine. I am thrilled! I won't even say how little I paid for it... ok, $25!! Amazing...

My lovely little Royal...

My favourite key... thank goodness, I have shift freedom ;)

Ok, I will be sure to keep you "posted" about my Highline blog post from Craft Cafe. In the meantime, please leave me a comment if you like to create and send mail art. Would you please share some links to your work or to any info you would like to share about this movement...

Preview of My Work in the Florescence Show, Currently On at Cube Gallery in Ottawa

2011-09-09T00:34:00.001-06:00

Dance Passionately Through Life (or I also like to call it Ghost of the Dance)

Encaustic Collage on Wood

12x12"

I love living in Banff, but my old art stomping grounds are Ottawa, Ontario & Chelsea/Wakefield, Quebec, and sometimes, I miss it and the lovely people I know from there. I still show my work in these locations, most frequently at Cube Gallery in Ottawa, for at least two group shows a year, when I am on top of things. The current show, Florescence, is a show about flowers. I have 10 Polaroid transfers, 4 encaustic collages, and 2 collages on canvas in this show. I WISH I could attend the opening on Sunday afternoon, because one of my oldest Ottawa art friends (I mean how long we have known each other, not her age) Mahshid Farhoudi, is the show, too. Mahshid and I used to share a studio on Preston Street in Ottawa. Those were the days... Barbara Gamble, an artist I admire, is also in this show. And the people on the guest list are a whose who of Cube and Ottawa artists I know including Ruth Secunda, Sandra Hawkins, Vivian Tytor, Pam Connolly, Violeta Borisonik, Patrick John Mills, and of course, the owner of Cube, Don Monet. I wish, yet again, that I could somehow teleport myself to this opening to see all the beautiful work. If you are interested in what I have in the show, scroll down to see my offerings...

Bloom

Collage on Canvas

16x20"

Arms of the Angels

Encaustic Collage on Wood

12x16"

Blossom

Polaroid transfer original

3x4"

Once Upon A Time

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Bloom

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Storehouse & Nursery of Bastardy

Encaustic Collage on Wood

12x16"

Nostalgia

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Days Gone By

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Time Passes Quickly

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Geisha Girls

Encaustic Collage on Wood

12x16"

It Came To Me In A Dream

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Please Come See Me

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Give Up Every Preconceived Notion

Collage on Canvas

12x12"

Today I Thought Of You

Polaroid Transfer Original

3x4"

Growth
Polaroid Transfer Original
3x4"

The Next Craft Cafe - Mail Art Using Vintage Typewriters - Friday, September 9th, 2011

2011-09-07T11:16:00.000-06:00

Come one, come all, mail lovers, art lovers, craft lovers... Join as at Craft Cafe, This Friday (Sept 9th) for a special 'Banff Snail Mail Society' Mail Art workshop from 7pm to 9pm at our local Wildflower Bakery at 211 Bear Street. For $15.00 you will get tips and mail art ideas from the SMS President, Claire Wilkinson, plus access to, stationary, vintage postcards and old typewriters.

Be inspired to create personalized correspondence, letters, confessions, top ten lists, poems, scripts etc.

Space is limited so sign up in person at the Wildflower, call 403 760.5074 for a place on the guest list, or leave a comment for me below...

Florescence - Cube Gallery, Ottawa - September 6th to October 2nd, 2011

2011-09-04T22:20:00.001-06:00

Give Up Every Preconceived Notion by Tiffany Teske
Collage on canvas
12x16"

16 pieces of my work are in the following show. 10 are Polaroid transfers, 4 are encaustic collage, and 2 are collage on canvas. I will be uploading images of them all here in the next couple days. For now you can see them in this Facebook album...

September 6 – Oct. 2, 2011
Florescence
At Cube Gallery
( n. the process of blooming and flowering )

Vernissage: Sunday, Sep 11th, 2011 — 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

They can be an expression of adoration or remorse; happiness or sadness; re-birth or bereavement . The language of flowers is vast, ancient and mysterious, yet somehow always fresh.
Join the dialogue at Cube Gallery from Sept. 6 – Oct. 2 as we present Florescence, a show that celebrates, explores and delivers flowers.
This group will feature some of Canada’s most distinguished still life artists including:
Barbara Gamble, Tiffany Teske, Gary Bowes, Janet Moore, Paul Schibli, Julia McDonald, Mashid Farhoudi, Beth Levin, Nicholas Abusow, Pina Manoni-Rennick.

====================================

Floraison
6 septembre - 2 octobre 2011

Vernissage:Dimanche le 11 septembre 2011 – 14h à 17h

Elles peuvent être une expression d’adoration ou de remords; de joie ou de tristesse; de renaissance ou de deuil. Le langage des fleurs est vaste, ancien et mystérieux, mais toujours frais.
Venez participer au dialogue à la galerie Cube, du 6 septembre au 2 octobre, alors que nous vous présentons Floraison, une exposition qui célèbre, explore et vous livre des fleurs.
Ce groupe présentera des artistes parmi lesquels sont les plus distingués dans l’art de la nature morte.
Barbara Gamble, Tiffany Teske, Gary Bowes, Janet Moore, Paul Schibli, Julia McDonald, Mashid Farhoudi, Beth Levin, Nicholas Abusow, Pina Manoni-Rennick

Submissions to A Little Me, a Self Portait Challenge From Cloth, Paper, Scissors

2011-09-03T19:02:00.001-06:00

Ever since I left University, I have looked for opportunities to make art to a theme and on a deadline. That was one of the things I loved about being in school. I am good with deadlines, and while I don't really plan out my work before I get started, aside from the medium I plan to use, I do like to have a direction to go in.

Authentically Me by Tiffany Teske
Encaustic collage on wood
6x6"

I created this for the Cloth Paper Scissors "A Little Me" challenge. It is called "Authentically Me". It is a 6x6" encaustic collage. I first used a colour copy of a gelatin monoprint I made using a self portrait image I took of my own feet and hands. I combine a black and white copy of the image with printmaking inks and a flower which left a negative print. I combine the colour copy of the monoprint with beeswax, then using a stylus I hand wrote adjectives I would use to describe myself. I then rubbed a Shiva paintstik in iridescent copper over the words and removed the excess. This piece is "authentically me" because it is how I see myself and because it contains flaws in my spelling and hand writing. I don't generally plan out all aspects of my pieces so I accept "mistakes" as something that happens when a real person makes art. Perfection is impossible and can get in the way of making good art. This piece also includes a wire bird nest with gemstone bead eggs that I made. Much of my work contains birds, feathers, eggs, and nests, so it just seemed right to include it as one of those things people identify with me and as something that is close to my heart.

Detail of Authentically Me

I am Unique (Like Everyone Else) by Tiffany Teske
Encaustic collage
6x6"

This is another submission for the Cloth Paper Scissors challenge. It is entitled, "I Am Unique (Like Everyone Else)" because it is true and because I have always liked that saying. It is a 6x6" encaustic collage. It has many layers and meanings. I started with a colour copy of a Polaroid transfer of a self portrait I made on handmade paper. I layered beeswax on top of the copy, and then, using a stylus, I hand wrote information about me across the piece. I then rubbed a black Shiva paintstik over the words, then layered it with more wax and fused. I added a feather and ribbon, two eggs (one that is broken and contains another egg), a wire and gemstone bead nest I made, and a twig I painted, distressed, and added vintage paper flowers to and dipped in wax. I made a little pouch from a wire edged ribbon, sewn together with wire, that contains the word "remember" and some turquoise beads. Turquoise is said to take on the characteristics of its owner. I selected the word "remember" because much of my work has to do with memory. The eggs represent my children and the nest the home I have created. Much of my work contains birds, feathers, eggs, and nests. This feather represents my travels through life and the ribbon my childhood. The flowers represent growth. I made them on a twig because I derive a lot of inspiration from nature and I live in a National Park.The phrases are personal things about me. The whole piece is a bit complicated, and eclectic, like me.

I am Unique (Like Everyone Else) Detail

My Skin by Tiffany Teske
Encaustic collage
6x6"

And for my last submission to the CPS challenge... It is entitled, "My Skin". It is a 6x6" encaustic collage. I started by writing my thoughts onto carbon paper with tissue beneath. I then added the tissue to my substrate using wax. Next, I transferred a colour copy of a Polaroid emulsion lift self portrait I made onto my encaustic surface. I added the words, "I feel comfortable in my own skin" to the wax surface by writing with a stylus onto carbon paper. I added a wire and gemstone bead nest I made, a feather I found while out exploring with my daughter, and a distressed ribbon in my favourite colour, dipped in wax. The nest represents the home I have created, the feather my need to travel and discover, and the cheerfully coloured ribbon ties these things together, bound by the wax, as they are entwined in me.

My Skin Detail

Thanks for taking a look at my work... I am always happy to share it!

The First Day of School

2011-09-02T17:29:00.000-06:00

Emmanuelle enjoying summer...

Seriously, where did the summer go? I live in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, where just yesterday, new snow fell on the lovely enchanted mountain tops. We only have about a month of summery weather, and I have to say, it is gone. Today, I wore a tank top, a long sleeved shirt, a fleece, and a scarf. My feet were cold in just one pair of socks. Winter is coming...

Quin's first day of school

...but first there is fall. My favourite time of year. I was married on September 20th, outside, in a warmer place, because I love the cool breezes and the changing leaves. This year, our big fall news, although it actually happened last week, in late August, is that our eldest daughter started school! She is in full time French Kindergarten. She loves it! She loves to see her friends, she loves to ride the bus, she loves to eat her lunch at school. She is a go-getter with a sunny personality and school agrees with her. What a milestone!

The last craft of summer vacation...

Her little sis, and I miss her around here. We miss crafting, art making, baking, and playing with her all day, but I am looking forward to all the days off of school when we can do that. They will be even more special. We were able to get lots of creative time in in the days before school started.

Now that it is fall, I will be blogging more. I promise. I hope you all had a good summer and are enjoying the last days of it...

The Next Craft Cafe - Cool Upcycled Scrabble Tile Pendants - August 14th, 2011

2011-08-10T22:29:00.000-06:00

At Craft Cafe, we just can't seem to get enough of making awesome jewellery... next up, Scrabble Tile Pendants. I started making these several years ago, and this was one of 4 different crafts that I make that were featured in 1000 Idea for Creative Reuse by Garth Johnson (Quarry Books). Come learn how to upcycle Scrabble Tiles into personalized pendants or leave them as-is and wear your initials. These make great gifts and since this workshop only costs $20 to make TWO pendants, you can make one for you and one for a friend... PLUS you can make additional pendants for $5 each!

If you would like to use your own personal image it must be less than one inch square and printed with a non smudging ink, ideally a color copier print. We will have plenty of images and sources for images on hand, so if you don't have an image to use, just bring yourself, we have it covered!

The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks, and drinks.

Cost: 2 pendants for $20, additional pendants $5

Payment is considered registration. Please sign up at the Wild Flour to confirm your spot. Space is limited. If you prefer to pay via Paypal, please contact me in a comment below and I can email you a Paypal invoice.

Bring a friend, bring your kids, bring your mom...

See you there!

Nine Arts at the Canmore Market

2011-08-04T15:54:00.037-06:00

I have been sharing booth space with eight other fabulous artists at the Canmore Market each Thursday. We call ourselves Nine Arts and we cover pottery and ceramics, hula hoops, jewellery, photographs, watercolour, and mixed media visual art, glass blowing, and recycled fashion. I would write a blog post about it here, but I already did, over on the Highline Magazine blog. If you would like to know more, please read the post here. I am at the booth for a full day from time to time, so let me know if you want to come by. The booth is open every Thursday from 9 Am - 5 PM, through October... or you can view more below...

Revive Handmade Collections (Denise Scammell)

Suzan de Laine

Tiffany Teske

Wild Girl Hoops (Babz Robinson)

Nine Arts Booth at the Canmore Market

Julia Rayne Schumacher

LMD Designs (Laura Marshall)

Sheri K. Designs (Sheri Kartzmer)

Nicole Tremblay

Heather May

Invite to the Next Show at the Whyte Museum... or What Do You Mean I Need to be in Three Places At Once

2011-08-03T00:11:00.002-06:00

This happens to me frequently... I need to be two or three (or more) places at once. I try to avoid it, but it does happen. I just realized it has happened again for this Saturday. I KNEW I wanted to be in two places at the same time, but I thought the third thing was at a different time than the first two. Now, it would be nice if I just WANTED to be at all of these things, but I am actually REQUIRED to be at two of them. Let me explain...

Ferntebrae

Original Polaroid Transfer by Tiffany Teske

Ferns

Original Polaroid Transfer by Tiffany Teske

I have always wanted to have my work in a show at the highly esteemed Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies. Last year, I was selected to take part in their Kaleidoscope of Crafts, which was a two day Christmas Sale. My friend and fellow artist, Barb Fyvie, alerted me to a call for work they had a few months ago, but I didn't have anything that fit the theme. Then, recently, I received their call for submission for a show called Blossoms and Botanicals. Right up my alley... so I submitted 5 pieces, as requested, and they selected two, which is the max they selected from each artist. I was thrilled to get the call. I dropped off my work yesterday, and told them I would be at the opening...

... the opening that I JUST noticed, because I opened the show invite to forward it to my list, is from 1 - 4 PM on Saturday!! OH NO!!!! I thought it would be in the evening... NOOOOOOO!!! I REALLY want to be at the Whyte for the opening and they EXPECT me to be there. But, I can't be. Why you ask?

Because I am facilitating an ongoing project on Saturday, from 11 - 4 PM, for Banff Heritage Tourism as part of Banff Culture Days. It is called Personalized Paddles and I have been excited about it ever since, John Bowden, asked me to lead it. There are actually 5 dates that this will be taking place and I missed the first one when we were in Yellowknife. My wonderful friend, Cheryl Ello, filled in for me, and I can only hope that maybe Cheryl can fill in for me from say, 1 - 2 PM this Saturday...

What is the third thing? The non-required thing I also wanted to go to on Saturday is a cyanotype making/ mail art workshop in the Bison Courtyard by Sarah Fuller. I have been wanting to meet Sarah. My friend, Claire Wilkinson of the Banff Snail Mail Society, will also be part of the workshop. Cyanotypes, vintage typewriters, the Bison Courtyard.... NOOOOOO!! It is from 11 AM - 3 PM. Well, at least I can send my hubby and kiddos.

When was the last time you couldn't be in three places at once?

The Next Craft Cafe - Personalized Glass Rings - Friday, July 22nd

2011-07-22T01:20:00.001-06:00

Glass enthusiasts. We want you!
Come one, come all to make chunky glass rings.

These rings make amazing gifts with personalized images. We will have many funky images to choose from, but bring any small (1" square) photos you may want to use. Photo paper and colour copies work best, printer images on regular paper may bleed. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions...

The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks, and drinks.

Cost: 30$
Participants will have the option to make additional rings and/or pendants for 10$.

Payment is considered registration. Please sign up at the Wild Flour to confirm your spot. Or leave a comment below if you want to come. Space is limited.

Spread the word and bring artisan crafty women along...

Ring by Tiffany Teske, using vintage bird illustration

Welcome to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada!! Photo Essay, Part One

2011-07-15T09:49:00.000-06:00

This trip has been in the making for about three and a half years. Back in January of 2008, I hosted a digital travel photography workshop in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. A friend of mine from Ottawa, Izabel Barsive, spread the word and I ended up with an amazing woman, Tawna Brown, and her friend Rachel, from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, in my workshop. Since then, Tawna has been inviting me to come to Yellowknife. She is so passionate about the city she grew up in, that I had to come. She doesn't work for the tourism board, but she is the first person I have ever met who carries around travel DVDs about her city. She also gave me a luggage tag, that when she picked us up at the airport today she recognized. She should be paid for all the efforts she makes to bring people to her city.

This summer, the stars aligned, and we were finally able to take her up on her offer to visit Yellowknife. We usually spend over a month visiting family in Ottawa and Minneapolis, but this year, we did that in May. So, we were able to take advantage of the fact that Yellowknife is in our region when it comes to frequent flyer miles, and we were able to book this trip. Also, due to the generosity of Tawna, who has opened her home to us.

Driving through Banff National Park on the way to Calgary

Our beautiful backyard

In the air...

One of many out the window shots....

Touching down on the runway in YK

To be continued, as we are off to play...

New Work - Maternity Shoot for Polaroid Transfer Originals

2011-07-09T23:01:00.001-06:00

Commissioned Polaroid Transfer 2011

This may be one of my final Polaroid transfers. After stocking up on 669 film after Polaroid announced they would cease to produce it, people would ask me what I was going to do when it all ran out. Well, I have had a good long run with Polaroid processes, and I like change. If you do something for too long you run the risk of falling into a rut. I decided that when my 669 was gone, I would either stop and do something else or I would find a new way to make transfers and emulsion lifts. I will write more on what I have decided to do, soon. But for now, I wanted to share that I am down to one box of 669 (!!). And in the past month I have had a very exciting time using up my expired film. It has not been without incident, though, since the chemistry has been acting up. Everything I have made in the past year or so has had sepia toned streaks that no matter how many times I cleaned my rollers, I could not stop. While part of the ArtsPeak Studio Tour this year, I gave demos on transfers and emulsion lifts. I had 6 hours straight two days in a row to work. At this point, I had already shot a maternity session, that I was hired to do because the mom-to-be was enamoured with a transfer (you can see it below) I had given to my midwife, who is also her midwife. She commissioned me to make two transfers. But that weekend I began to wonder if I was going to be able to fulfill her request. But with the time to work I turned panic into a solution with some trial and error. I let the transfers that I had made dry, then I put them back in water and rubbed off the brown staining with the tips of my fingers. It worked remarkably well. And it made me feel really good that after 10 years of working with this process I was able to learn something new, something that would also save the day on this commission. Phew! I am so glad I could make this image...

The inspiration for the above transfer was an image I made if my dear friend, Cristina, when she was pregnant with her son, Francis. I think this was taken in 2004, but my memory is not as good as it used to be...

The Next Craft Cafe - Nature Inspired Bird Nest Pendants and Earrings - July 10th, 2011

2011-07-06T12:15:00.000-06:00

I am so excited for the next Craft Cafe! My friend, Sheena Miller & I, started Craft Cafe this spring. I haven't been posting about it here because the intention was to make a blog just for CC. And I will be doing that SOON! But for now, I wanted to get the word out about our latest craft workshop...

Aren't these bird nest pendants adorable?! I LOVE them! I have been making them for a couple of weeks now and they are completely addictive. They are adaptable, so you can make a larger pendant or a smaller pair of earrings. They can be made without the loop at the top, but with a hidden jump ring in the back. I actually want to start sewing them onto my mixed media pieces, too. Many, many possibilities, especially for colours of eggs (beads) and wire colour combinations!

If you are in the Bow Valley and would like to join us for Craft Cafe, here is the info for this workshop...

Calling all crafty and nature inspired women to come make a unique handmade bird-nest pendant or earring set.

Cost is $20. Please sign up and pre pay at Wild Flour by Saturday, July 9th at 6 PM. If you would rather pay online, please contact Tiffany to have a Paypal invoice emailed to you.

These make amazing gifts for the nature enthusiast. Participants will have the option to make additional pieces for $10.

The Wild Flour will be open for delicious snacks and drinks.

Spread the word and bring a jewelry lover!! Space is limited to 20 and people are signing up quickly.

If you are interested in being part of this workshop, in being on the Craft Cafe email list, would like to have Craft Cafe come to your event, or if you have questions please leave a comment below, and I will get back to you quickly. You can also check out our Facebook Group. I hope to see some of you this Sunday!

Wicked Cool Campers!

2011-07-05T01:00:00.000-06:00

I live in a place where there are more tourists than locals, especially in the summer. People from all over the world come to Banff, making it one of the most visited National Parks in the world, with 4.5 million visitors a year. I appreciate the tourists, because otherwise I couldn't live here. I love to see these people enjoying my backyard. I also love that everyday is different and I never know what I will see. This weekend, while going to the Community Greenhouse to water our plot, I saw this camper. It is from Wicked Campers, which have offices beyond North America, in places like the UK and Australia. Andre, my husband, & I, lived for 2 months in a VW van, known as a Kombi, in Australia, with a friend of ours. Three's a crowd? Yes, at times... but rather than break up after the trip, Andre decided he loved me, foibles and all, and proposed 6 months later... anyway, back to this fun camper. It made me smile, and grab my camera. I even went to their website and found out that you can rent one of there campers for as low as $31.50 a day, when booking for more than one day. That's a good price!

As for who paints their campers and thinks up the fun sayings, it is all done by volunteers. Well, actually maybe not all of it, but there is a page about how you can volunteer to paint, write sayings for, and even fix the campers. I do get a bit sick of how artists are always asked to volunteer their services but this would be a fun project if someone was able to volunteer their creative talents.

Are any of you going camping this summer? Do you go camper style or back country tent style?

365 Days With Kiddos - #36 - Go Outside & Do Something, ANYTHING!

2011-06-30T00:00:00.000-06:00

My kiddos and a little friend, explore the wonders of the great Banff outdoors...

One of my very best friends, Patty Selly, has started a regular feature on her blog, small wonders, entitled "101 Things To Do With Kids Outside". Patty has been my friend since high school, which is getting be a long time ago... and she really knows what she is talking about, because she is an environmental educator, with two small children of her own. If you are looking for some inspiration on way to explore nature this summer, please check out Patty's blog...

365 Days With Kiddos - #35 - Sculpt with Play Dough

2011-06-29T00:10:00.000-06:00

As some of you know, because I have shared the recipe here, we make a lot of homemade play dough. We play with it, and we share it as gifts. When there is play dough on hand, there is fun for all ages. Try it sometime, just put a colourful pile of it out on the table. I guarantee that adults and kids will not be able to keep their hands off of it...

The other day, we made play dough babies. I wanted to share them here because they are so simple yet my daughter loved them so much! There is really no trick to it. Roll a ball for the head, add or poke holes for eyes, nose, and mouth, roll our a circle, poke some decorative holes along the edges of the circle with a chopstick, wrap it around the baby head, securing by pushing the two sides together, and finish with a bow or other embellishment. Your kids can play with them as is, or dry them for a several days, and keep them as play figures. The colour of the play dough does tend to fade when it is dried (making the wee babes a bit mummy-like), but the kids can always paint them in bright colours once they have dried completely.

What do you and your kids like to sculpt with play dough?

Off to a Good Home in Hawaii - "Becoming Whole" Polaroid Emulsion Lift Original

2011-06-28T00:45:00.000-06:00

For me, a lot of creating art is about the process. I am always thrilled with the final result, but am addicted to the rush I get while I am creating, or dreaming of when I will have the next block of time to create. That being said, there are some pieces that I am attached to. After all, creating each piece is actually birthing them, and how can you part with your children? One piece that is about to leave the nest is "Becoming Whole", a Polaroid Emulsion Lift Original that I created a few years ago. The image was originally shot on slide film, and one of my best friends, Jeanne, who lives in my old stomping grounds in Maine, is the model. The lift is on watercolour paper and is approximately 5x7". On an interesting side note, it caught the eye of artist, Darlene Olivia McElroy, who asked to features the piece on her website for her book, Image Transfer Workshop. She doesn't cover the process in her book but she wants to inspire others with examples of what can be done with transfers. Anyway, I am happy to share that this piece is going to a previous buyer whom I consider a friend. Arlene Solomon lives in Hawaii, and is a talented photographer and massage and movement therapist who purchased three of my Polaroid transfer originals for her studio. I am so excited that she also wants to give a home to "Becoming Whole". Maybe I will make it to Hawaii someday to see my work and Arlene at her studio...

Now that the original is sold I will be offering a limited edition of 15 5x7" prints of this piece for $30 each. If you are interested in a print, please leave a comment here.

365 Days With Kiddos - #34 - Arrange a Neighbourhood or Community Pot Luck

2011-06-27T00:45:00.007-06:00

MMMMMMMMMM, baby pancakes...

Yesterday was a day of food, friends, & family. We started out the day with silver dollar pancakes at the diner down the street in the company of friends who were visiting from out of town. With only four adults to five kids aged six and under, we were definitely out numbered. The kiddos were great, and the bonus was that their pancakes were free! The daddies finished their meals early and took the kids outside to play, while the mommies had a few peaceful moments to chat.

An adorable crew! E is going through a phase where she is practicing getting dressed AND undressed...

For dinner, we went to the new community centre to the second community pot luck that has been hosted there. Over 80 people were in attendance, and while sausages and desserts were provided, community members were encouraged to bring a dish from their cultural background.

Part of our new community centre during a "global" pot luck...

I brought Pouding Chômeur, or welfare pudding, which is a part of our family's French Canadian heritage. I wrote a bit about its history and shared the recipe in this post. Because it was the only homemade dessert, and probably because it was soaked in maple syrup, it was gobbled up in about 10 minutes...

E is pleased with her meal...

Pot lucks can be great experiences for kids and adults. What better way to not only eat a variety of types of food, but it is always a good way to try new things. My husband and I like to try new things, and our kids follow suit. We also like to socialize, to get out and be a part of our community, and these pot lucks are a fun way to do that. Check and see if something like this goes on in your community and if not, why not arrange a pot luck with your neighbours or with some family friends. You can come up with a theme or make something that your grandmother used to make. In our community people are encouraged to bring their own plates, cutlery, and cups, to be more environmentally friendly. We were given a picnic basket for our wedding that we use all the time. I would love to read your comments about different ideas for pot lucks.

Q finished up the evening with some coloring fun she named "The Rainbow Blowup Fish"

Feature Article in the Rocky Mountain Outlook "Junk to Gems at Wild Flour" by Michelle Macullo

2011-06-26T21:50:00.000-06:00

I would like to thank Michelle Macullo for a really kind article about my current show at Wild Flour, "Kitchen Poetry & Various Randomosity".

Art Food & Motherhood

Mixed Media Assemblage

Size Variable

SOLD

Junk to Gems at Wild Flour
By Michelle Macullo
Rocky Mountain Outlook

Whether written on a scrap piece of paper or a few words jotted down as a mental note, many of us have a to-do list that hangs around like a dull headache—annoying but tolerable.

And then there’s Banff artist Tiffany Teske. The radiant blue-eyed beauty defies the odds and get things done. She’s that kind of person who follows through on her dreams and ideas. There’s nothing not to like about her, aside from the fact that once you meet her, you go through that list of unfinished business in your head and realize that you’d like to do this and that, but you don’t. You’ve had this great idea that you wanted to take to the next level, but haven’t. And part of you feels envious. But people like Teske are a rare gift. And if we stopped feeling sorry for ourselves and stopped making excuses, we’d realize we have the ability to live up to our own potential.

During the month of June, Teske shares Kitchen Poetry and Various Randomisity— a look into her colourful uninhibited multi-media world of all things vintage, re-used and previously loved at Banff’s artisan bakery, the Wild Flour Cafe. Many of the show’s pieces showcase various images, stemware, buttons, carefully placed words or phrases and thrift store items.

And then there are the birds.

“Who doesn’t like cute little song birds?” Teske asks. “I think the birds remind me of my gypsiness (sic).

But not all birds.

“I hate big birds. They scare me. My parents let me watch The Birds (Alfred Hitchock movie) when I was way too young,” she laughs.

Her work is clever, radiant and good for the soul. It brings smiles to faces and tells a rich story of enchanted places, interesting characters and leaves viewers wondering if her intricately ornate cutlery accompanied meals in Wonderland.

“I make things out of things nobody uses,” she says. “It’s fun to find something people won’t buy and turn it into something. I feel guilty about something going into the landfill.”

But for Teske, creating is more than making something visually appealing. She likes “there to be a message. Even if it’s as simple as ‘mama loves you baby’.”

And as for the kitchen side of things, Teske says cooking and artwork have a lot in common.

“There’s an alchemy that happens in the kitchen and making art,” she explains. “I like to take everything out and improvise. I know which flavours go together.

“Being a perfectionist is the worst thing. It just makes you stand in your own way.”

And in the rare event her efforts are a flop, she dusts herself off and gets back up.

“If I don’t like it, I’ll order a pizza or try again,” she smiles.

Kitchen Poetry and Various Randomosity is on display at the Wild Flour Cafe until June 30.

My First Highline Magazine Blog Post

2011-06-25T21:54:00.001-06:00

My daughter Quinlyn was born in Quebec but is now an official mountain girl...

Polaroid Spectra double exposure by Tiffany Teske

I am a big fan of Highline Magazine, the best read in all of the Bow Valley. The shiny glossy print mag comes out twice a year, which is just too seldom. To remedy this, Highline decided to start a blog. If that was not exciting enough, they then contacted me about being one of their regular bloggers, and, but of course, I said YES! Now, I am on my way to becoming a regular contributor to the Art + Soul department of the Highline blog, yeah! And my first post when up this week. Entitled, Banff Becomes This Gypsy Girl, it is about how I came to live in the Bow Valley. Please check it out and let me know what you think. Better yet, let me know how you ended up in the Bow Valley, or wherever you live. We ALL have a story...

Myself against our Rocky Mountain backdrop...

Polaroid Spectra double exposure by Tiffany Teske

Heureuse Saint-Jean-Baptiste!

2011-06-25T01:00:00.000-06:00

From my eldest daughter, who was born in Gatineau, Quebec, "Heureuse Saint-Jean-Baptiste, tout le monde!" To our friends in Quebec, we hope that you all had fun celebrating the Fête Nationale (National Holiday).

Summer at Last... or 365 Days With Kiddos - #33 - Go to the Beach

2011-06-23T21:56:00.002-06:00

...although it is cold and rainy as I write this. The girls and I were in Canmore about 5 PM, where I share a booth at the Thursday market with a group of nine artists, and as we took down the booth, the sun was shining. No sooner had we all gone to leave when the skies opened up and let loose. I got off the highway and turned around when the hail started and decided we would be better off having pizza in Canmore before heading back to Banff. It was the right choice since the power was out when we got home.

But YESTERDAY, the day after the solstice, we had the most glorious summery day. It was soooo nice that we headed to Cascade Pond to frolic with friends. The sunshine felt good on my back, I even got a bit too much. And the sight of the kiddos, in various states of undress, laughing and playing in the sand, was wonderful on the senses.

I even shot an image that today was shared online on the blog Toemail. As my toes emerged from months of being trapped in my shoes, I decided to make a photograph for them. I LOVE feet, but if you are phobic you may not see the appeal. The website features photographs of peoples' feet in various locations around the world. You would be astounded by the variety of images that can be produced using this simple concept. It is brilliant! And a nice way to record for all to see that we did, indeed, have one real day of summer here in the Rocky mountains...

National Aboriginal Day at the Banff Centre- June 21st, 2011

2011-06-23T00:27:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I facilitated a mask making workshop at the Banff Centre, as part of an event they were hosting for National Aboriginal Day. Prior to story telling by award-winning writer Richard Van Camp of the Dogrib Nation in the Northwest Territories, people of all ages made masks. While adult mostly chose the masks with an aboriginal theme, the kids were most drawn to the butterfly and moth templates. I made sure everyone had what they needed and helped where I could but they just dove in and created with abandon. The time flew by and fun was had by all. My only regret was that I could not stay for the story telling as I had to teach at an evening event...

So many choices...

This one reminds me of a super hero...

Before...

After... My favourite adult mask.

These sequins and this glitter all belonged to ONE little girl...

This one was my favourite kid's mask.

What a lovely, colourful, afternoon...

ArtsPeak Studio Tour 2011

2011-06-21T02:33:00.000-06:00

What an amazing weekend! I am still on cloud nine. I was asked awhile back by the Edge Gallery in Canmore, to be part of the Canmore ArtsPeak Art Festival, by being part of their leg of the studio tour. David and Kathy Foxcroft, who run Edge Gallery, have some of my Polaroid transfers in their gallery, and I was part of a group show there last summer. David creates amazing collages and I have had some good conversations with him about art. He and Kathy were introduced to me by my talented (and amazing) friend, Barb Fyvie, whom I met when I took part in an exquisite corpse art collaboration in 2009. You know those people who just make you smile when you think about them? Anyway, I jumped at the chance to be part of the studio tour, both because of the fun I was sure to have, and because my hubby was available for the weekend, and it would mean 6 solid hours, TWO DAYS IN A ROW, of child free art making. Now you all know how much I LOVE my kiddos, and making art with them, but sometimes, Mama needs her time alone...

Our studios were in Silver Creek in Canmore. They are units that are for sale, and they have both a living space, and a studio/retail space. Very cool, and if Andre and I were empty-nesters, I would jump at the chance to live in a home where I could also have a studio and gallery. The Edge Gallery is one of these units, as is the Virginia Ann Hemingson Art Gallery. The ones we were in were bare bones, large, light filled spaces with plenty of wall space for exhibiting our work. I must say that I am not the best display person, so I just hung all my work salon style and set up my table to work on. But, fellow artists, Larissa McLean, and Annie M. Froese, effortlessly TRANSFORMED their space into a garden of colour. I have no idea how they did it. They travelled all the way from High River to be there, and they opened the doors to their van and a garden came pouring out! I wish I would have taken pictures... hopefully they took some!

On Saturday, I had my space all to myself, which was heavenly. Not that I didn't want a neighbour, but I am just as happy to be alone as I am to social. Barb, who was participating in the weekend, as one of the en plein air painters at the gallery, greeted me and helped me to set up. I was super excited for the demos I would be giving. On 10:30 AM each day, I "formally" demonstrated Polaroid transfer, and at 2:30 PM, Polaroid emulsion lifts. That is what I was scheduled to do in the newspaper advertisement, but I worked all day in both processes, as people gathered around to watch. Many were very interested, maybe because of my enthusiasm. I am so passionate about making art, any kind of art, but Polaroid processes are my old friends. You know the ones who you don't have to see for a long time, but when you finally do you just fall back into step like no time has passed? I could make a Polaroid transfer in my sleep. And after years of teaching the process, it was fun to demonstrate it for an audience that was just there to listen and watch. I have never actually done that. And I printed several images that I have never tried before.

One Sunday, my studio mate joined me. I was excited all morning to meet her. Shannon Williamson, from Calgary, works in encaustic. I couldn't wait to pick her brain. She was so so lovely from the moment I met her, and her husband, Doug. Doug, went off to oil paint, en plein air, and Shannon gave an encaustic demonstration for most of the day. And patiently answered my questions. I learned a great deal, both about encaustic, and about pricing my work, since Shannon works at Wallace Galleries in Calgary. I have been an artist my whole life, but pricing is still such a sticky issue... I am grateful to Shannon for her generosity, both in teaching me, and in purchasing some of my work. I look forward to seeing her again.

I was really surprised by the turn out on Sunday as opposed to Saturday. And it was busiest at the end of the say on Sunday, which is not common in weekend shows I have done. I had more sales than I anticipated and I gave 20% of that to Mountain Arts for next year's festival. I was not look at this as a selling opportunity, mostly as time to work, to meet other artists, and to learn a thing or two.

And speaking of meeting other artists, I also briefly met Lucie Bause, of Canmore, whose Portal XII, just became Canmore's newest public art piece. And Karin Millson, of Calgary, whose demonstration, entitled "Sewing Machine Abuse" caught my eye the minute I saw it advertised in the newspaper. Unfortunately, I was so busy all weekend that I never did get to go and learn from her, but I plan to pay her a visit. And I also plan to visit Larissa and Annie in High River. I would like to photograph the beautiful Larissa in the wonderful Victorian hats and clothing that she owns, among her colourful gardens, and to see Annie's gallery. Maybe I will make the trip with the one person I met this weekend whom I have been waiting to meet. Sometimes, there is a person that EVERYONE I know seems to ask me if I know. And I don't know them. And it shocks everyone... well, that person walked right in to my studio at the end of the day. Her husband had seen my demos the day before, but since she was giving a workshop in bookmaking(the legal kind) she had not been with him. I recognized him from the day before. And the minute this woman started talking I KNEW who she was. I had been waiting to meet her. AND not 10 minutes before, I had been talking about her with my new friend, Adrienne Lawlor, whom I had exchanged emails with but whom I accidently met in person that day... the woman whom I am quite sure I will be making a lot of art with is Dea Fischer. Things happen when they do for a reason... and I always approach each art experience with an open mind, because I just never know what is going to happen... and that is my favourite part about every day.