North Star Studios

Anatomy of Childhood: Return To Innocence

2006-02-18T17:32:00.000-06:00

(When I think of Angels, I conjure up pictures of those who are guardians, who watch out for lil children. I know this isn't the best collage, but I'll keep working on it.)
Return To Innocence

Return To Innocence
That's not the beginning of the end
That's the return to yourself
The return to innocence
Love--Devotion
Feeling--Emotion
Love--Devotion
Feeling--Emotion
Don't be afraid to be weak
Don't be too proud to be strong
Just look into your heart, my friend
That will be the return to yourself
The return to innocence
If you want, then start to laugh
If you must, then start to cry
Be yourself, don't hide
Just believe in destiny
Don't care what people say
Just follow your own way
Don't give up and use the chance
To return to innocence
That's not the beginning of the end
That's the return to yourself
The return to innocence
Don't care what people say
Follow just your own way
Follow just your own way
Don't give up, don't give up
To return, to return to innocence
If you want then laugh
If you must then cry
Be yourself, don't hide
Just believe in destiny

Enigma

North Star's First Workshop! Collage Angels

2006-02-14T22:34:00.000-06:00

North Star Studios is having its first workshop. The subject is Collage Angels, and all friends of the gallery can join in. If you need an invitation to be part of the workshop, just email Gail.
The idea of the workshop is to share and learn - if you don't want to create a new collage that's fine, if you don't want to post an image at all that's fine too.
The idea is to share inspiration and technique. If you have a favourite technique - for example, a way of creating angel wings or adding angelic glitter - your input would be greatly appreciated.
If you do post an image, tell us how you did it! Share with other workshoppers the process of creation.
The images should be no more than postcard or ATC size. It would be lovely if we could release our images into the world as `found art' - by leaving them in cafes, buses, library books etc - for someone to find as an unexpected uplifting gift during their day. Everyone could use a visit from an angel!
I look forward to seeing your work in the gallery.

Art Havens on the web #3

2006-02-07T05:54:00.000-06:00

Dover Publications specialise in reprints, especially of vintage art that can be used as public domain clip art.
If you go to this link you can sign up for the weekly Dover Sampler, downloadable pages from their huge range of books. I have found some wonderful clip art this way, including the lantern used in Light of the Ancestors at Lemurian Mail Art
Above is the downloadable page from Dover with the Chinese clip art images.

Driftwood Art

2006-01-26T21:43:00.000-06:00

A serendipitous find at my favourite beach - Cabbage Tree Point - now graces my home as art. This piece of driftwood is exactly as I found it, in the shape of a seabird.
I am one of those people who cannot go anywhere without fossicking - I reegularly go beachcombing and bushwalking in search of natural elements I can use in art, and usually find something I cannot bear to alter in any way. My seabird is an example of that.

Pam Thorn has some beautiful examples of driftwood art - her assemblages are quite orgeous.
Patricia Bartlett has written a book on making art with driftwood.
Crosstides has some inspirational driftwood pieces.
Driftwood Arts shows some more lovely ways to use found pieces.

Art Havens on the Web#2

2006-01-19T01:03:00.000-06:00

Aisling (pronounced Ash-Leen) means `vision' in Gaelic, and Aisling D'Art's website is certainly a vision of collage, doll art and fabric art. I love looking at her art and collage journal pages - they are so vivid and inspirational.
If you click on Aisling's journaling arts page, there is a free book on making family history shrines to download as well as many other free ebooks. Aisling also offers loads of advice on selling your art.
An art haven well worth a visit and one where the creative soul will feel at home.

2006-01-18T18:41:00.000-06:00

Here is another collage created in Photo shop. I made a background using various brushes and added parts of various pictures of books and a design from a handbag. It is such fun to put together pieces from many sources!

2006-01-14T19:34:00.000-06:00

This collage is created in Photoshop by using a photo of a wall and adding various bits of writing.
Some are put in the overlay mode so they blend with the background. I like the effects.

Metamorphosis - Collage

2006-01-11T05:12:00.000-06:00

Art Havens on the Web #1: Artella

2006-01-11T02:00:00.000-06:00

The bookmark folder made for my mystery musee.

Have you called into Artella yet?
Artella is a website and magazine for artists, no matter what your medium – words, collage, paint, pencil or craft. You can read about art, talk about art, buy art, sell art, swap art, submit art.
If you just want to check it out, you can request a free copy of Artella magazine. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Editor Marney Mandriakis is a passionate woman whose magazine explodes with inspiration and colour.
As a member of the Artella community I get to join in some really fun things. This Christmas I took part in the Artella Mystery Muse, and annual event that brings artists together in a joyful expression of sharing. I was Mystery Muse to an artist in Texas and I really enjoyed putting together a package to send to her. I created a tiny altered book and haiku, and a set of bookmarks, and added in a few little extras, like shells from our favourite beach and a packet of arty notelets. I was delighted when she responded at the Mystery Muse message board.
But in all the excitement of preparing my gifts, I forgot that being a muse also means you are a musee – and I was really excited to receive a beautiful fabric art card from my muse here in Australia. It was a joyful experience and I will certainly be part of it again next year.

World Views....

2006-01-08T22:15:00.000-06:00

The art of Hiroshige Uragawa, the last great woodblock artist in the Ikyo-e tradition. This woodblock of Mount Fuji was published after his death in 1859. The cool clear colours, the exquisite line detail, the depth and breadth of the ocean suggested with a limited palette and intricate lines, make this one of the most inspirational pieces to an artist. The perfect symmetry of tree and wave form the beating heart of this woodcut that ensures it will live forever.

Image from Wikipedia

Collage Theme - World Views

2006-01-08T21:35:00.000-06:00

In this series of collages, I have tried to capture my emotional response to other lands and cultures. This collage is called Out of Africa. It is very simple in strong earthy colours with a fibre and African bead trim.

I read the book Memoirs of a Geisha and now I am looking forward to seeing the film. I have been fascinated with Asian culture ever since I came to Australia in the 60s, where I was first exposed to it. I have used origami in my art many times, including making folded boxes to give as art gifts. This collage uses amn origami geisha doll, fibres and handmade Japanese papers.

The Emerald Forest was one of my favourite films of all time. This collage started with the image of the Indian `being invisible' in his covering of leaves. I used fibers and corrugated card in the background, with green glass mosaic pieces.

Friends of the North Star Gallery

2006-01-08T21:33:00.000-06:00

Because of the uncertainty of life and thunderstorms, I am issuing invitations to people to become Friends of the North Star Studios. This means those who choose to join can display their art works without contacting me first.

You can offer your art for sale or trade or just for the delight of visitors. Just let me know if you want an invitation.

I will also be organising a collage workshop and challenge on the theme of Angels in the near future. I hope you will all join in, even if you’ve never tried collage before, and any tips or tricks you want to share can be left in the comment boxes. The workshop will be held some time in February so there is plenty of time to prepare.

Yes! The studios are finally open for business! Please enjoy your visit, and don’t forget to make a wish as you leave.

North Star Studios Reopening

2006-01-04T02:05:00.000-06:00

North Star Studios on Duwamish Bay is under new management and will be officially reopening on Saturday January 7. If new owner Gail Kavanagh - that's me - can do half as good a job as AshleyShea in making this gallery something Duwamish Bay can be proud of, she will be a very happy woman!

As you enter the gallery on Saturday you will notice a shining new plaque by the door. It states that the gallery is dedicated to AshleyShea's brother Stan and will forever remain so.
The good fairy Providence has elected to stay and keep the gallery sprinkled with stardust so that your wishes can be granted.

If you want to send art for sale or display at the opening or at any time, just send your images to me (click on my name for the info) and they will be posted in the gallery.

Now I am off to gather some art for the opening, because Providence has gone mad with the fairy dust and it's making me sneeze!

But at least I know my wish will come true...

Waterlilies

2005-10-31T22:09:00.000-06:00

Today, in honor of a brilliant artist who left us too soon, I have put on display three views of the same image created by this wonderful artist. First a photograph, then two images of a watercolor, in progress, made by looking at the photograph.

I believe this was his first, and only, watercolor. I know he was just beginning to "dabble" as he put it.

To see more photos, go to SerendipityImages.com.

Searching the World for Art

2005-09-26T22:26:00.000-05:00

I'm glad to hear there have been visitors to North Star Studio in my absence. Providence is minding the shop and keeping me up to date on the comings and goings. With all the footsteps taken through the studios, I'm sure some wishing dust has been picked up by shoes and hair and clothing. Wishes should be coming true. I hope my visitors return and tell me of their granted wish.

Where am I? I'm traveling around the world, by donkey, of course, to search for the most exotic, moving, soulful pieces of art on the planet. You will be the first to see them when I return.

So that you don't get bored during the wait, I must show you a photo a took along the way. Did you know that donkey's can travel faster than the speed of light? This is my photo of a beautiful sunrise. My donkey was simply moving so fast, I could only capture the colors and essence of the sun. I hope you find it as breath taking as I felt taking it!

Wanderers, travelers, continue to find your way to the North Star. Providence will make you feel at home. I'll be returning soon with wonderful wares to display.

Mother's Art

2005-09-23T05:19:00.000-05:00

Yes, I dug the pool and placed the stones, but ...
the completed art is the Mother's alone.

faucon

(Upper pond and flume of the Tiers of Sakin'el)

2005-09-17T20:15:00.000-05:00

Heather called for words and words came. Powerful woman!

Steph

Dawn Light

2005-09-17T07:41:00.000-05:00

This is an actual photo taken in 1911
by a Forest Ranger on a ski trip.

from the Forest Service archives.

I have used it in several
of my books -- sometimes faded as
a background.

faucon

The Yellow Hills of Italy

2005-09-17T02:09:00.000-05:00

Hello Travelers! This is something I painted tonight while reliving my stay in Italy.

From Duwamish...

2005-09-13T23:34:00.000-05:00

From Duwamish To The North Star....

Clean Air

2005-09-13T20:06:00.000-05:00

This is shot of Jarbidge, NV that I use
as my desktop scene. It is rathed to have
the cleanest air in the continental U.S.
This valley often does not have enough
rainfall to grow any flowers at all. Of course,
it is 60 miles by dirt road from anywhere.

Elevation about 6200 feet. The mountains in
the background are over 11,000 ft and have
Bristlecone Pines -- the oldest living things on earth.

faucon

necklace

2005-09-13T11:52:00.000-05:00

This is a necklace I made a while ago

Planets

2005-09-13T11:22:00.000-05:00

My sister, Hazel Jarvis, painted this. You can see more of her work at www.trimburhenry.com

Hermana de las Corazon (sister of the heart)

2005-09-11T22:12:00.000-05:00

This was made for a friend of mine.

Photo 2

2005-09-11T19:21:00.000-05:00

A Snow Flower grows only in the Sierra Nevada mountains,
at elevation of 4,000-5,000 feet. In order to gestate,
their seeds must be ingested by a squirrel.
They grow up through the last snow patches
and live only a couple of weeks.
They cannot be transplanted and will die
if touched or breathed upon. There is a
$500 fine if you are caught with one.
As there are fewer than 100 sighting in an average year,
my brother was fortunate to get this shot.

faucon

Fiber Arts

2005-09-11T18:36:00.000-05:00

These are a couple of embellished
quilts I did for our local Humane
Society fundraiser.

This is, of course, KatyLou.

Art for Sale!

2005-09-11T11:18:00.000-05:00

This piece of art, titled "The Dancer," was made on fabric canvas using inks and paints. It comes in an embellished 5 in. by 8 in. frame. You may have seen derivative works of this Dancer throughout the Lemarian world, but this is the only original. Others have been enhanced paper copies.

If you would like to own the original artwork, it can be yours for 45 U.S. dollars.

Since I am aware that many of the visitors to North Star Studios are travelers, I offer shipping service. If you would like to own The Dancer, she can be shipped anywhere you'd like.

Please don't hesitate to inquire for further details.

Welcome Guests!

2005-09-11T10:59:00.000-05:00

I am so thrilled to find so many guests in the the gallery. The art you have brought will be welcome additions and will add to the festive atmosphere developing here. I am also delighted to know that my first visitors are finding inspiration here. That was my constant thought when cleaning up the space and searching for the first art pieces to be shown.

As you have likely seen and heard about, a glittery powder covers the shelves and floors of this gallery, courtesy of Providence, a sprite muse. You will not be able to avoid leaving here without some on your shoes or in your hair or on your clothes. Having this dust on you is not helpful in any way. It will ensure that the next wish you make will come true. Providence and I would love to hear from guests about their wishes and how they have come true. So remember to make a wish after you leave here and bring us news of your wish on your next visit.

Horse Image

2005-09-11T09:43:00.000-05:00

Your drawing brings to mind this
image of a Scythian Tatoo --
a horse totem worn by shaman
about 2500 BCE

faucon

Wildfire and Hilda

2005-09-11T07:09:00.000-05:00

The horse's in my party are not doing it too tough as we travel to Duwamish. One of the ravens from the rookery caught Wildfire rolling in the meadow and Hilda having a pensive moment.

I give you this Shari because Wildfire is expressing wild, jubilant joy and I know that my visits to North Star will be joyful.

Sepia Boathouse Memory

2005-09-11T03:42:00.000-05:00

A Sentimental Favourite - Lake Boathouse at Alfred Nicholas Gardens.

River of Dreams

2005-09-10T17:48:00.000-05:00

I have been experimenting with computer drawn art and this is my latest piece, whioch for some reason reminds me of Billy Joel's River of Dreams. Which in turn reminded me of Duwamish - truly a river of dreams. So I am dedicaing this piece to the new gallery.

Photo 1

2005-09-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

I do not paint except with words,
but I have gathered some interesting
photos to share occationally.

faucon

This is a natural, but rare cloud formation
cause by a rain of ice crystals in a sudden
downdraft.

Browsing in the shop

2005-09-10T08:41:00.000-05:00

I find the gallery a delight and will come often to your door. Are photos and paintings done with my magic pad count as suitable works? All success and joy in your endevour. Fran

Arrowhead

2005-09-09T21:42:00.000-05:00

I discovered this beauty while walking the shores of Duwamish Bay. I took this photo with my digital camera so that I could preserve its image in its natural surroundings. Now the image and the arrowhead will be on display in North Star Studios. I wonder the history this piece has seen.

Artwork Finds!

2005-09-09T19:25:00.000-05:00

I'm beginning to stock the shelves of the Art Gallery. You get to be witness as the shelves, wall space, and floors and filled. Here's my first aquisition by Clearly Ambiguous.

This piece is currently on display only. I need to fill the place before I let my visitors take everything away. I will still take offers for future purchase. I can be very flexible. Make me an offer and you may find I can't refuse.

If you'd like more information on this lovely piece, just ask. That's what I'm here for!

Seeking Artwork for Show or Sale

2005-09-09T18:33:00.000-05:00

North Star Studios is interested in artwork for sale or show. Now that I have the place cleaned up a bit, it echos in here. It's time for me to start filling it with artwork!

If you are not ready to part with your beauties, I'd be happy to simply show your work. I can't sell everything or there will be nothing for visitors to see!

If your artwork is ready to move on from your artistic hands to the those of an admirer, I can help you find the buyer who need your artwork as much as you needed to create it!

I am interested in all media -- from pottery to paintings, mixed media, paper art, ....everything! I'm even planning a book nook for weary shoppers to sit and browse.

Interested? Contact the gallery owner for more details.

Residents of Duwamish Bay Get Involved

2005-09-09T18:19:00.000-05:00

Jackson, a lovely resident of Duwamish Bay, offered to decorate the walkway into the gallery. Here he is with his wonderful work of art. I'm so delighted to see the residents of Duwamish Bay taking an interest in North Star Studios!

How about a little light on the subject?

2005-09-09T15:03:00.000-05:00

Even with the windows cleaned up and sunshine coming in, there are few dark corners to the gallery. Saffanna was nice enough to stop buy and install a few of her wonderful Ice Chandeliers. Aren't they gorgeous!!?

Windows Repaired

2005-09-09T12:36:00.000-05:00

I hired Space Cadet today to repair a few windows in the gallery. Now instead of drafty, smoke encrusted windows, there are beautiful windows to peek through. Have a look! So far, every visitor says he or she sees something different outsite this particular window.

What do you see?

Getting Ready!

2005-09-06T22:21:00.000-05:00

I am having a grand time getting the new North Star Studios ready for the residents and travelers who come through Duwamish Bay. As I dust the shelves I envision the treasures they will hold from far and wide. As I sweep the floor I see the many people who will pass through this place enthralled with one piece or another.

The Sprite Muse who made this place known to me as introduced herself to me. Her name is Providence. She told me she was sent to me by Doreen Smith to help me with this stage of my journey. And what a help she has been! This gallery must have been closed for several years. It seemed I would never be able to sweep all the dust away. With a twitch of her wings, Providence converted grimy dust to sparkling, wishing-charm dust. When you visit, you will notice that the floors and shelves look like they are coated in glitter. You are certain to take some out with you on your shoes are in your hair. Know that, after your visit, the next thing you wish for will come true. So, even more so now, the old adage is true. Be careful what you wish for!

I made time to create a bit of my own art. I thought I'd better warn future customers of making wishes, so I made a sign to hang over the door for people to see as they walk out. On the sign I included an image of a gift Providence gave to me, a magic wand. She says it has many uses, but it will help make my communication more clear. And if a customer comes in not quite sure what she or he is looking for, the wand will help words come and allow me to see exactly what the customer needs. Providence says I should talk with Abby Willowroot to find out more about my new wand, and I'm certain to do just that. I don't want to accidently do anything that will harm my visitors.

It's been quite an exciting day. Now that the dust is cleared and shelves and tables arranged, it's time to start bringing in artful treasures. Oh, what a delight to hold precious art in my hands knowing that the right owner will be matched up with it some day...and owner who will be healed by its radiant beauty.