Fiona and I have now 'accepted' that the open studio event, over two week ends at the end of August (
Creative Spaces - Open Studios), is now only a month away; and there is much to do. We are still converting our shed into
601 MVR Studio - our public work-teaching studio; and of course trying to ensure we have some work to display and sell; and have in place some plans for work that we can do and share with the public with out endangering them - no gas burners for annealing or dangerous instruments.
We think, in the main, the open studio weekends will be about letting people know what we do and where we do it. We are not confident that it will be a big selling time; so we think apart from our 'normal' art works we will have for sale some inexpensive take-away trinkets based on our art - including cards, calligraphy pebbles and stamped inspiration in the pocket bits - so people can take home a touch of our art and a little reminder of who we are and what we do. Below is a photo of the first 20 of my planned 50+
inspiration in the pocket bits. Each of the pieces is made from scraps of silver-plated brass-nickel; and on average are 25mm square or 15mm wide by 30mm long. They are meant to be carried and held in one's pocket or wallet-purse - a little tangible daily affirmation. In the end there will be about 7 different inspirational words for people to choose from.
 |
| Barry Smith © 'inspiration in the pocket' |
 |
| Barry Smith © 'inspiration in the pocket' |
I mentioned in an earlier post I needed to build another bench for the shed studio - it is made from some 100mm square pine Edith-Ann gave me and bits and pieces of timber on the block. It has been painted to match
601 MVR Studio; and is 'strong as'.
And when we moved the large 'bowl forming block' up from the house I discovered some beautiful micro fungi - so of course I have to share photos of those quiet achievers.
 |
| Barry Smith © Furtive little fungi |
 |
| Barry Smith © Furtive little fungi |
Still heaps of production to do over the next few weeks amidst the work-work.
looking good and very on track for a great 'open studio' xoxoxoxo
ReplyDeleteInspiration In The Pocket?... inspired. I'll need some of those. That funghi is gorgeous. I'm attending a workshop at Maleny Arts Retreat that weekend so can I call in on the way? From the name of the studio I'm sure I know where you are.
ReplyDeleteThe fungus id beautiful. Looks like the growth of crystals
ReplyDeleteOh how exciting to have an open studio - I'm so envious... in a good way. Hopefully moving to Santa Fe, New Mexico end of next year and just having my own large space to work is something I long for and a change of scenery. Love the little pieces of silver. Reminds me of the "worry stones" that we used to carry in our pockets.
ReplyDeleteThe pocket pieces are great, Barry! I think in these hard economic times it is a wise move to provide folks with something small and affordable but uniquely recognizably yours. It's walking advertizing for you and what you do, plus one day your admirers may have more "disposable income" and remember you! Best of luck preparing for the big event!
ReplyDeleteThe pocket bits look so fun and you two look to be definitely coming along in preparation for the open studios!
ReplyDeleteI always love your inspirational words on your metal work... the beautiful fungi is a bonus.
ReplyDeleteB - i think it's a great idea, these lil art pieces of yours!! wow! an open studio for people to visit ... you can actually get your studio included on the local tours of your place,can't you? it would be very cool! i remember when i was studying in the UK, i use to love these little workshops and studios dotted along the roads when we travel to Scotland or Wales. lovely discoveries and i get so inspired! by the art and that sort of lifestyle :)
ReplyDeleteHello, Barry.
ReplyDeleteYour heartwarming works fascinates my heart.
Thank you for your kindness.
I wish You all the best.
Have a good weekend.
ruma
I love your little metal bits, they beg to be touched. And such a nice bench Barry. And the little fungi, the quiet achievers are lovely.
ReplyDeleteN, JM, G, SZQ, TT, CM, D, l ,R & TL - this post was a bit of a mixed bag but I'm happy that you visited and found a bit of interest. including fungi and the bench which now has vices attached. SZQ - you got it with the worry stones concept - though I wanted a positive spin - hence inspiration in the pocket. TT - I agree money is tight so if people can leave our place in a positive frame of mind then when times are good who knows. D- the pieces are simple and zen-ish - hope they carry energy for folk. R - glad the 'words' resonate with you. L- open studious give us all the opportunity to be inspired. Go well and create well. B
ReplyDelete