Kids Nature Mandalas

Some were friends, some had never met. Some weeks the kids were all the same age, other weeks it was a bit of a difference. But none of that mattered. From the very first day, they were shown how to work together, communicate, design, build, create, redesign because the wind blew, let go once it was done and be proud they were able to bring a smile to a strangers face, even if they weren't there to see it. I think the best part was that they were unplugged. There was no i-device to arrange flower petals and leaves. The mandalas were creations all their own (sometimes starting the centers would need some inspirational help), and occasionally a passer by would thank the kids for the beauty they created. Now I will share that beauty with you.... Enjoy.

   

Third time's a charm

So obviously 'blogging' is not my strong suit. I am going to attempt to change that.
Before, my stories revolved around the studio, the kids and their work. I will continue to share the stories when fitting, but I am also going to use this format as a project log for the crazy amount of different work that I do. All of it. From the paintings to the drawings, the sewing to the sculpting. How I repurpose materials from something old to something new, drab to fab... I could go on. But I think you get the point. I am going to aim for every new piece I begin. I want to tell a small story, show a few photos and then reveal the finished product. That is my goal with this blog spot. So lets see how I do...
I started a new piece yesterday.... My first 'primitive' style hand painted table cloth. Just like with everything else I try, it was more of a challenge. There is a store in town that carries this type of decor but none of it made by local artists. That's another thing I want to change... But that's a different story for another time... Back to the cloth... I started it yesterday afternoon, hopefully it will be done today, we'll see.
As for the 'daily blog' I am hoping at least this much, with every new project (sometimes there is more than one a day) that I can keep up with this. For now though I will consider it as this, a filing cabinet for my memory.
*Quick update: the oddly placed photos in the middle are obviously the finished cloth. Took a day longer than I had hoped but well worth it! Now I can add 'primitive style art' to my list.

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM RIVER CITY ART

A new year is like a blank canvas, let us see what inspires.

As most of you know, I have already made a major change for 2013, moving the River City Art studio into my home in Collinsville. Just around the corner from the old studio. I hope this is the first step towards many more excellent things to come. New inspirations, new creations. 

The way the program is run will not change. I will continue my mission to help cultivate, inspire, encourage and provide artistic education and appreciation to all ages and abilities. I will continue to provide a place where artists and community members can come together to share ideas, work on projects, explore the creative process and nurture and grow their talents.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. 

I thank you all for giving your children the opportunity to explore their creative sides and create some amazing work that they should be very proud of. 

Much love to you all and hoping for a wonderful 2013 

Kate

PS~ Studio Art begins tomorrow!