Last Thursday

For the past three years I've opened my studio doors to the public once a month. I welcome anyone who is interested in what I create. I absolutely love to discuss art techniques and the process of development. In the beginning, a lot of genuine individuals stopped by to talk or even buy my work. People were fantastic! I found it fun and challenging to show out of my own space. But now, something has happened. The low-key indie art community I used to be proud to be a part of feels lost. Strangers walk into my studio and look for free alcohol. When I'm not looking they take my things! The street is so crowded you get lost in the people, not the art, and at the end of the night trash litters the street.
I'm not ready to close my private door to the public just yet. There's still that very small percentage that makes it all worth it! I have to hold on to those positive experiences to keep going, but when someone has the audacity to take my things I just want to shut out the entire public.

On a positive note, here's a picture of one of my finished bags.

Here's a wall of my original textiles.

Bjork is my therapist

What in the world would I do without music? Lately, I'm not sure what I'd do without the lovely harmony of Bjork. Her entire Post Live album puts me in a trance and helps me create pretty things. I just want to live in that world where time is nonexistent and inspiration is pure beauty that lasts forever...oh life, why are you such a tease?
Fortunately, I've had the time to work on some new leather clutches. They are screened with new Jacquard inks that are water-based and totally rock! Check out my new work. I'm very excited about the zippers!




Here's a peek at some other things I've been working on under the dim yellow lights.


Oh Bjork, your Hyperballad saved my life today, thank you.

Busy Beeeee

So, it's been a while since my last post. I've taken beaucoup picts thinking i'd write about everything, but where does the time go? I recently traveled back to my old college town of Eugene to visit a dear friend and her new baby girl, Abhaya. It was a fantastic weekend with my girly friends. Abhaya is such a beautiful and happy baby, just like her mama! You rock, Amy!

I wish I had gotten a picture of us girls, but here is Talya making drinks and a family shot of Amy and Yacub with their fabulous children.


Farewell Eugene

Back in Portland I hosted the make-and-take table at the grand opening party for Collage. We made tiny collages inside bottle caps and turned them into magnets. The kids had a great time! I was so happy it was sunny and warm!


The class schedule for July and August is already out, so check out the DIY Lounge calendar for new classes!