EyeCandy

REBOOTING!

2012-01-02T00:26:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

I am glad 2011 is done for so so many reasons. Of course, the economy and political shenanigans and whathaveyou, but the autumn/winter was a sad one. There were four deaths including my father's passing, and my beloved sister in law's mother plus a dear friend within five weeks of each other.

Ugh. I feel like I am just now getting my feet underneath me again.

"Work" is incredibly off the chain and everyone of course is happy to have a job when they have one, and I do love what I do, but it's with a happy heart that I face 2012 and MORE ART SHENANIGANS.

Yes, I am indeed involved in the Sketchbook Project for 2012. The subject is fascinating and I had picked it quite some time oddly enough before the turn of the wheel -- Life Underground. Some of you may remember that the Myth of Demeter and Persephone is one of my favourites.

I also am at the halfway point in the novel I've been swearing to write for quite a while now. And I am back into costumery, movies, and reading. Visiting friends through blogs, visiting Miss Jeanne when she came over from London (gosh, I hope this year sees me back over there!).

So while it has been a dip downwards on this nutty rollercoaster we call life, things have evened out and I am buckled back in for the next adventure. Mmm, maybe I should just free fall this ride.

A visit with Art Shenanigans this weekend. I have indeed missed you all. It's been tough being away.

Candace in Athens

Red White and Green

2011-07-04T20:24:00.034-04:00

Hello everyone and Happy Independence Day!

Watermelon, anyone? To go with your Nathan's hot dog, of course. Yummo.

This weekend was a much-needed respite, and there was an extra day this year, thanks to this so-loved (but simultaneously so taken for granted) holiday falling on a Monday. Although it's a red white and blue day for many, here at New Haven it's turned into a red white and green one, this year.

Amy's Garden now resides at New Haven along with the EyeCandy Garden.

It all looks and feels fabulous... isn't it amazing what Mother Nature's energy does for a space? The entire house and garden feels airy and spacious and -- well, freed!

Coming up, it's The EyeCandy Tour. No captions necessary, in my opinion.

Where there's a hare, you know there's sure to be a tortoise!

Slow and steady....

Come back soon for more works of nature and art. Two great tastes that taste great together... !

Candace

Mad Hatters

2011-06-26T00:16:00.020-04:00

All for one and one for all --

Hello and thanks for checking out my rusty self at the Mad Hatter Tea Party 2011!

A good thing I put up that BWO, isn't it? Well, kids, as I told Vanessa at A Fanciful Twist, like Persephone, I feel like I have been sprung in time for spring -- and a little past spring, truth be told!
Let the Party begin...

"You Meet The Most Interesting People At This Tea Party"... and if you don't believe me or my friend here, just check out A Fanciful Twist's Mad Hatter Tea Party 2011 and see all the rest of the fun around the world up close and personal.

First, we will start out the day at the Athens Farmers Market serenaded by a ridiculously good downhome bluegrass romp ...

Yes, let's stop for a POMEGRANATE martini (remember what I said about Persephone?).

Say, are you sure we're going to a Mad Hatters TEA party? This looks like sushi!

Trust me. We're headed to the Party now.

Just stopping by the house to make some peach goodness (well, it is Georgia, so you shouldn't be too surprised). And yes, I make everything from scratch. You just cannot beat the taste if you have the time.

The honored guest! Remember what I said about interesting people? Well, sometimes they're not people at all. I ought to know because I have four of them at the Party.

The Farmers Market is FILLED with flowers this year. I came home with quite a few, and here they are, ready to grace the table.

The Gleesome Threesome here, taking their own pot of pinks to the Mad Hatters Tea Party. Even paper dolls need a little fun.

Thanks to everyone who has written and asked me to not fall off the edge of the world again. I'll be back again very soon.

Candace, Still In Athens

Golly! More from Art Shenanigans

2011-01-19T22:55:00.017-05:00

Hello everyone! First, Happy Birthday to The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Look at that new toy, and that new bed. Don't get up, Moll. We'll let ourselves out.

Those paws are as big as my head, honest.

Well, I am sure you have all heard about The Big Chill here in the Sunny South. While I do have Art Shenanigans to share, here are a couple of shots.

During -- and after! That's how cold it was, too. That is not my camera. Everything looked as blue as Babe the Ox.

There is no "before" shot, you will notice. T and I were minding our own biz when suddenly we just had a feeling. There was that quiet sound the Earth gets when she is settling down for a long winter's nap, you know what I mean?

It has been a real recordbreaking winter in the Classic City. We had a White Christmas, and now we've had a week of 8-inch snow'n'ice that would NOT go anywhere no matter how much we begged Mother Nature to get rid of it. Seriously. My mail did not show up for four days. And I still had to work...

Even Kittyboy was not having any of it. What the --??? He had a great time watching the birds come get their suet, though.

Here we go. Coloured pencils and ink on paper on top of paper, some of them sealed with not just a kiss but with Mod Podge.

Miss Fitt. Coloured pencil and ink on 90 lb cold press paper, on top of paper, on top of moleskine.

Facing Forward. Coloured pencil and ink on moleskine paper. Sealed.

Mouth Shut. Ditto but not sealed.

Spite. Ditto ditto. I tried making her hand look like a scissor.

My goodness, isn't Art lurid ...! Too many horror shows as a kid, no doubt.

Take care and enjoy the weather.

Candace, Still in Athens.

Brought To You By --

2011-01-04T23:19:00.013-05:00

The letter A. Honest, I did not have anything to do with the making of this little trick. An errant piece of old fabric neatly settled down on my walk in front of my old rickety steps.

Here she is! Following her many and sundry perils, “Candace Wants To Travel Doll” is safe and sound — for now, anyway – in Athens. Go here to find her home base. And she just landed in the Athens post offal after a big hoo-ha in Brasil!

I will be adding to her adventure travelog soon enough -- not to mention adding to HER -- and then, once again, Candace Doll will be on the way! Kimberly wants her back in her original digs by April 15th. Why does that date make me shiver?

Straight from their holiday gig on my tree, The Monks take time out to welcome Candace Wants To Travel Doll. Nothing like taking a load off your knit feet and checking out the new girl.

And speaking of shiver, you would never know it from the warmish weather today, but last week we had this type Extreme Weather going on --

and here in the Classic City, that is pretty nippy.

Take care!

Candace Wants To Travel Human

Happy

2010-12-31T18:51:00.012-05:00

Art Shenanigans to everybody!

Just as Sarah popped into my head today around 3PM ET, I wondered how close to New Year's she was... and now I see she has sent me a Happy New Year well ahead of time. Well, ahead of MY time, not hers, I wager. Jeanne popped into my head today, too, as I thought for a sickening moment later in the afternoon that the scarf I'd "won" from her a winter or so ago had been stupidly lost ... sigh. But no. A miracle! Yes, it is safe and sound and on its little hook hiding beneath my heavy denim jacket.

Basically I've been housebound during holidays due to a back injury, driving or even riding in a car more than I could handle -- mmmm. Lortab causes all sorts of things to melt away into a sort of golden cloud. I will be more than happy to get back into the swing of things, workwise and otherwise.

Was 2010 a good year, a bad year or both? For myself, the depths as well as heights were reached but that's life, isn't it? Or is it, really? Do we accept shortcomings and or what we believe are limitations or do we keep on keeping on, determined to reach not so much the top of the heap but the best of what we believe is in our own selves?

Colour will be splashed onto these little pen and ink drawings later. But for now, enjoy them in their simplest form. The first trio in a series of trios. These are all going into Face Forward!, my theme for the 2011 Sketchbook Project. More on that later.

Take care. Be well.

Candace, Still in Athens no matter WHAT the year is like!

White Christmas

2010-12-25T22:18:00.015-05:00

We are Santa. We carry the message, Goodwill and Peace on Earth. If that's not a gift ...

Say, happy holidays, everyone! I am safe and sound and still in Athens and we just looked out, and it’s SNOWING.

A long winter’s nap for Kitty Boy -- doesn't he look like he's sporting a bit of a halo? Well, don't let him fool you! --

-- and bits of the Final Tree for 2010 shown here. That first one is fuzzed for some reason. What the???

Oh indeed, your eyes do not deceive you! Sock monkeys, a longtime favourite, adorn the tree!

That smaller sock monkey was a sweet and unexpected gift from dear friend Amy… seen here with her very own Mr. Claus. Hers was the first card of the season and how tickled I was to get this photo!

Who needs an Elf on the Shelf when these two are the ones watching over you?

Out and about this week. Posting fun stuff later.
Kids, I am so hoping everything was extra special and magical for you this year. And as Jeanne says, we made it… !

Candace, Still In Athens.

Bits and Pieces

2010-12-12T01:16:00.016-05:00

Hello everyone.

Hope you are all well! I am indeed still here and have managed to survive another earnings season just in time for the holiday season -- .

Yummo baked goods at Walker's Pub in Athens. Visiting friends and friends visiting.

Everything goes by in a blur once December hits.

Some shots of the Harvest Tree from November. Is that really me? Yep, as always, looking over my shoulder.

The full monty... almost. I like this shot for the reflections and shadows cast.

Twinkling lights make everything look so magical. One can almost hear The Faerie Court giggling in the branches. So what if they're fake? (The branches, not the Court!)

Hard to believe this tree has been up one year now, but it has. None the worse for wear. But it comes down Jan 6 of 2011.

The hats? Well, sure, they were fun and I will post those soon enough. But the tree? More than fun. But now it's time for other things to get goin'....

Speaking of which, more later!

Take care!

Candace

BLUE MOON

2010-11-21T22:51:00.011-05:00

Just in time for the holidays… isn’t that splendiferous?

T says it looks like a face is hovering just beside Bellaluna itself. I like to think it's my id trying like hell to get a better shot. Yes, I realize with a sphere there is no angle, but --

And I think what a miracle. No matter where any of my pals are -- London, Oregon, South Africa, Australia, North Carolina, New York, right here in GA … we all are here under the same sky so ...

Let’s Dance under the moonlight, the serious moonlight!

And a lovely little glass piece I splurged on at the last Farmers Market. Oh you shouldn't have! Well, maybe I should have -- and so I did. Remember last year, I wanted a very similar piece by Susan Staley of The Solstice Sisters? To quote the song, I Can't Say No. The Athens Farmers Market usually closes for the year on the Saturday before T'Day.

Not this year! This year, they will push it through till Saturday, December 11th. W.O.W. Photos forthcoming, Kids.

Take care.

Candace

Shine On, Shine On

2010-10-29T20:53:00.008-04:00

Harvest Moon, up in the sky -- remember that song?
It was already a song of Yesteryear when I was a kid but I still love it as do others, I guess.

And I have as much of a singing voice as a crow.

But that doesn't bother this little darlin' who is oil pasteled on paper (i.e., yet another two-dimensional blonde!) against another heavy paper AND in my favourite colour... the glitter is fun. And that moon? I just peeled the top and pressed it flat! Is that cheating?

See the star over her other shoulder? A happy accident.

The Halloween Countdown has begun in earnest here at New Haven!

Take care.

Candace, Still in Athens.

Halloween Queen

2010-10-28T23:40:00.009-04:00

It is....

right around the corner...

just a few days now ...

My "National Holiday".

Don't you love oil pastels? I find them maddening and a challenge, but so lush. But of course,

Nature trumps them all.

Hope you are enjoying the season wherever you are.

Candace, Still in Athens (you didn't doubt it, did you?)

Party Animals

2010-09-27T00:06:00.022-04:00

Bess, our Clown Princess, is ready for this season's festivities -- starting sooner than you know! You can't see it but she had a really goofy grin goin' on. How can the same dog look so so regal one second and then the next instant turn into The Queen of Comedy?

Hello Everyone! Mostly I am working for "The Man" but using down time to get it going for THIS. I am in the middle of making the biggest crown I've had yet... and unlike the archetypal witch's hat, it is so, so colourful.

Alas, poor Yorick -- !

but not to worry, he will be turned into a sugar skull for the Big Halloween Party!

FINALLY the weather broke here in the Classic City. It didn't even reach 78F today after the last hurray of 90+ temps this week. We had a steady downpour of rain morning, noon and now, night, with occasional thunder. Tomorrow, more rain -- and the hint of a chill around the corner. Everyone seems definitely in the mood for this...

and hot lattes with a friend at B&N. (I promise. Those empty cups sooo had lattes in them...!)

One of us read Artful Blogging while the other read Psychology Today. We both grabbed the latest "Dexter" novel -- hot off the presses. It was a good day.

Take care. I hope to see you all at the Halloween Party here -- or at your place.

Candace, Still in Athens.

INTERNATIONAL

2010-09-21T13:41:00.000-04:00

Day of Peace...

Wow. Wouldn't THAT be magic? Sure, let’s cross our fingers but let’s walk that talk. Let's be realistic and idealistic at the same time, and work for a greater good.

sigh -- When I wrote the above, I sure was full of myself, wasn’t I? (Truth be told, folks will never "get along" 100%. Friends and, yes, sometimes even family will fall by the wayside for so many people who will be left wondering, “Why didn’t I see that one coming?” Over and over, people ask this question, still holding the bag -- now empty -- that used to spill over with such plenty and such promise.)

But, never fear. I still choose to be full of myself. I choose life and joy. I choose happiness. I choose peace. I choose all the colours of life, even the darker, less-loved ones. I choose pretending cheer over none at all, hoping it will transform into the real thing one day…

Internationally, of course.

I'll leave you for now with a shot of a tiny tea set given to me this Sunday past -- it's a replica of the set Thomas Jefferson used at Monticello. And say, even Sarah would be happy with that reflection on the piano! (She's doing some really fun stuff over on her site. Go check it out by clicking on her name!)

Honest, this set pretty much fits in my hand!

Take care, you lovelies.

Candace, Still in Athens.

ORANGE YOU GLAD --

2010-09-19T23:40:00.000-04:00

The long hot summer is over?
That Autumn will be in your face this very week?
That Halloween is right around the corner?
That pumpkins and costumes grace the covers of magazines and not overhyped celebrities?

Look what the Good Witch of the North brought me for this year's Fanciful Party… and say, it is soooo easy to get an invite to Vanessa's shenanigans. Check it out!

Can. Not. Wait. To Fly……

Take care.

Candace, Still in Athens.

The Turning Of The Wheel

2010-09-13T00:49:00.000-04:00

The soft cool rain, the changing light through still green trees tell us summer is going... and not a moment too soon for some.

The heat, once so welcome, has become a scourge, lawn parties are cancelled and the animals stay inside on cool tile floors, their thick tongues lolling around inside big wet mouths that remind one of caverns.

Travel to a distant cold place looms before the young beauty and the colour leaves her face even as the last of the blossoms cling to her.

"Why ever did I eat those few little berries?" Persephone sighs. Servants pack her bags as her mother weeps into the tea towels, just like always. When her husband arrives to take her back, foultempered from his exhausting journey, her mother refuses to look at him. If she did, she would see that he too has mourned for the girl's return the entire time she was away, and she would see he looks gray and haggard.

"If only you could see him the way I do... " she tries telling them every spring upon her return. They refuse to listen, crying all the louder.

He stands out on the lawn of this friendless land, and helps the servants load her things. His hand caresses the fabric of her favourite scarf... how good it will be to take her away again! How good it will be to take her to their real home. to sit by the fire together and exchange stories, to hold her hand and be enveloped in this thick fog of love, until she finally gives in and eats a few more seeds.

Take care.

Candace, Still In Athens

Candace, Still In Athens.

CHIHULY at CHEEKWOOD

2010-09-03T14:09:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!

So, last Saturday, T couldn't quite get Dale Chihuly's name right at times

and kept saying we were going to see Cthulu at Cheekwood -- which Amy and I found hilarious, all things considered. Well, I would hope not. That particular subject is what you see at the top of the post here but I do think H.P. Lovecraft would SO enjoy Chihuly's works, especially this one, titled "The Sun".

So, Cheekwood, Chihuly, Cthulu. This became our litany during our personal Walk thru Wonderland aka "the exhibit". The photos/video found at that link are better, of course, than my own. I am no professional photog, by a long shot (no pun intended...), but let me tell you, at one point, T excitedly came back around the bend for me and said, "Wait'll you see this!"

I could not help myself. My jaw hit the sidewalk as much for the presentation as the objet d'art itself.

Long shot....

Medium Shot.

Closer Shot. Two of my favourite colours, esp together, are green and purple... paradise surely must have this dynamic duo together in certain places.

All the works, however, were simply beautiful, and at times mindboggling, and I will share more in future posts along with my own shenanigans. No Dunwich Horrors need apply!

Below is part of a long installation titled "Silvered Red Bamboo", T's fave. I can't possibly capture how many there were lining the magnificent bamboo walkway we went on to get to the Japanese Garden and how lovely they were. I can't imagine them lit up at night. What fire itself was like, being born, I would think.

Amy and I however favoured "The Sunset Boat" which you can see below (photo copyright Terry Rishul) . I want to go back to view this all at night, which you can find if you Google it. I bet the photos aren't like being there, either, but seriously -- what could be?

Nature is echoed time and again in Chihuly's work. Speaking of nature, T picked up a pal by "The Moon" --

that stuck with us Kids for over half our guided walk, right where you see it!

Art Shenanigans revisits us this weekend with a tribute to Tatterhood and some words on Sketchbook 2011.

Meanwhile, take care because -- well ... Cthulu is watching!

Candace

The Athens of The South

2010-08-30T17:44:00.000-04:00

Whew! There's nothing like a road trip and some Art Shenanigans to get you up and going again. July and August this year was incredibly b.u.s.y. workwise -- and the heat melted everything down around these parts. But I digress.

Amy (you remember her) popped us into Hubbs' truck this Friday past like homemade biscuits in an oven -- and away we went! I was more than just excited. As many road trips as I've had, this one was completely different and so special to me.

Nashville is considered the Athens of the South and not just because of the Parthenon.

The last time T and I were here, Athena was not all gussied up a la Ancient Greece, as she is seen here. The statue was exclusively white marble. And this time, we were not able to go into the Temple itself. It was closed for an exclusive gala event -- to honor the (last of) those Olympians that had run with Wilma Rudolph. We still had visual access however -- which made it all the more tantalizing.

Not to be outdone, T and Amy walk around the Temple to show the size/scale of the place. And to see if there's another way in... !

And here, Nike -- with Zeus's approval and the family looking on -- crowns Athena the Patron Goddess of Athens. Mmm... but the Parthenon is in Nashville. Go figure.

So, on to the real reason We Three Queens went on this junket.

I cannot express the sheer beauty and blast from the proverbial past that enveloped the floor of the Frist Center which housed "Haute Couture:The Golden Age". Even the children were mesmerized into quietitude. Altho that might have been from seeing the undergarments that looked like they could take you right out if you moved the wrong way! Go to this website to see more...

Back then, dressing was indeed elegant, having been raised to an art form. I think people look at it with such nostalgia. Either they came in on the tail end of this particular era -- which lasted only 10 years! -- or they remember their moms and/or grandmothers blazing through this sartorial comet, a la Mad Men!

We hit Broadway, the main drag through downtown Nashville, which features all sorts of things -- a lot of low end to high end schlock as well as historic sites. The food at this BBQ joint was YUMMO. And please do open that video to experience Jack's Tennessee twang. Authentic, trust me.

We poked our heads in at BB King's Blues Joint after a quick visit to Coyote Ugly, but no way could we have squeezed into Mr. King's establishment. You would have thought he was there. And if he was, well -- I'm sorry he missed us.

Face it, Nashville is about the MUSIC. If there was one tribute to Elvis, there were a million and he's not even from here. He was from Tupelo, Mississippi. But lots of songbirds paid dues and spent lots of time (still do) in Nashville.

One of my earliest memories is my mom throwing an Ernest Tubb platter onto the record player, singing along and even "dancing" a little. She never would have down that had folks been around as she was an "old time" Wesleyan... but her baby girl was all about singing and dancing and Art Shenanigans! So I stopped in as much for Ma as myself and was simply stunned.

It's a ginormous store with lots of atmosphere, smokey without the cigarettes, electric without the amps, the actual stage still there where his famous Midnight Jamborees took place so many times and where fans had access to him and many other famous recording stars. Records of everyone who was anyone at anytime plus many who are now 100% forgotten are in there as are cookbooks, high end schlock, autographed photos and tour posters...

Talk about Haute Couture! Look at the difference between the stars' suits. The bling on Jack Drake's outfit on the right makes Ernest Tubb's suits look sober as a judge. Ah yes, The Texas Troubadour... my mom knew all those warblers' nicknames. And she knew all their songs, as far as I could tell.

And believe me, they might slaughter the language while they're doing it, but those people can sing.

This weekend, I will pop up some Chihuly at Cheekwood, the other BIG DEAL we made haste to see. I love Dale Chihuly more and more with each passing season. His work is stupendous in a botanical setting like Cheekwood and it was the third time I've managed to catch one of his shows. We had to peel ourselves off his exhibit like bandaids to make it to the Haute Couture show, as a matter of fact!

But say, what's this? Yes indeedilidoo! Imagine my glee when this was found in my mailbox upon re-entry into the atmosphere. My Sketchbook 2011 book came in with all the trimmings... and my theme this year is "Facing Forward". I'll be keeping a blog by that name starting soon... so stay tuned!

Whew! Take care, Kids. More to come soon.

Candace, Still in Athens, the Nashville of the South

GOLDEN

2010-07-24T22:38:00.000-04:00

"Darling, we are growing old. Silver threads among the gold..."

Why my mother sang that to me when I was a child, I was never sure until now. Maybe it was to hip me to the fact that life is ever moving, ever changing, and it's happening right now, baby! Heaven knows I need occasional reminders, because even when you think you're really in the thick of it, sometimes you're just not. And while it can be jarring, it can also be extraordinarily pleasing.

I don't remember the moment I realized Linda Evans was in our family to stay, that my only and older brother had brought a bride into the inner circle of what I considered Candyland. To paraphrase Shakespeare, I only know as I told her today, "I couldn't have done better if I'd picked you myself."

Then... circa 70s, already some time after the fact --

... and now as seen below. A fine wine Linda is showing off (not that I got any!), along with a gorgeous coverlet with an embroidered 50 and accompanying quote... flowers! And Sis sneaked in a sweet glass globe from my parents' OWN 50th anniversary, which was well received and unexpected. Their presence is very much missed and yet very much evident.

Friends and relatives from near and far gathered. There were gifts, funny stories, sweet stories -- unrepeatable ones, too! -- and an enveloping joy that comes from sticking it out... seeing it through... learning together... and reaping the rewards.

Almost all of which were in attendance today! Too many photos and too many folks to include, but you can see some below...

Look close and you will see Linda's sister Cindy, whom has always been there, too. Grandsons Andy and Luke – say, recognize that painting?

Nephew Jonathan and his Brooke. It seems like just last week I was in Edisto watching them get hitched. And visiting the Serpentarium! But it's been over two years now. Whew... that was fast!

Next we see Linda Version 3 in the form of super duper granddaughter Laney along with her groom, Beau. Marriage agrees with them, too. They’ve had good examples, I believe. (EDITOR'S NOTE: It's Bo, not Beau.)

The food was good while it lasted. That cake was as divine as it looked! Linda's daughter Diana (Laney's mom) seen here had a friend make it, based on plate designs Linda has. Great job and a totally personal touch. I told someone, "I made Diana's life a living hell when we were growing up." But she not only kept on loving me, she kept on coming BACK!!!

And now, for something completely different...

A Face In the Crowd. Some sneak peeks, maybe?

And this guy... well, so far so good. He's my first attempt in a while at a Guy guy sketch. Guys are a little tougher for me. All those angles and jawlines... you'll see him again soon. Finished. (or maybe that will be me...)

Yep, I am entering the Arthouse Cooperative's Sketchbook Project 2011. Cross your fingers!

And take care, Kids. It's 99F here today. Heat index, 109. APOCALYPTIC.

Candace in Athens.

Hot Fun In The Summertime

2010-07-18T22:53:00.000-04:00

Yep. It's still hot -- and bound to get worse as Dog Days are upon us, only with violent, daily T’storms since last week. Can't leave well enough alone, can She?

And then I go out and this greets me.

What the --?! It’s not even August, yet some things look like they're busy packing up !

But not Art Shenanigans!

Kitten and I had a ball as always today, wrapping 28 gauge copper wire around tee tiny beads. She was pretty patient, especially when she taught me about making funtastic paper beads.

Yes, I needed toothpicks. Yes, I needed glue. Yes, I needed a cake of styrofoam. (and a shot of whiskey by the time I was done.)

These fabric beads by Kitten just amazed me. They don't even feel like cloth once they're rolled up and set with fabric glue. Earrings? Yes. Necklaces? Yes. Art Journals? If you have to ask this question, you already know the answer.

What's even better is I learned old scraps for both the fabric as well as the paper can be recycled to make these. The paper should be a bit thicker, however. And I know lots of peeps hold on to ALL their Stampington mags, but uh... anyway, that's the type thickness the paper should be for the beads. Enough said. For now.

Below are some more finished projects/products. Kitten’s beadwork always looks polished and professional – look at this bird’s nest! (I can't believe I didn't take a photo of her bracelet. duh...!)

We thought my very first bird’s nest looked more like a hornet’s nest. HA! But that's fine, isn't it? Kitten said that’s pretty much how hers looked at first, too, but that the second one was perfectly fine, like she’d always done them, more or less. One just has to get used to working with one's hands and not only working with new materials, but working the actual materials. Just jump in.

So I did... and I have to admit, I ended up pretty happy with it. Kitten popped it onto a ribbon, and voila!

And now I'm cheerfully confident that I can manage all sorts of fun items and pronto! Perhaps I should do a “Crow’s Nest”, filled with all sorts of shiny!

Speaking of shiny, T and I took a road trip to downtown Atlanta Saturday and ended up with a gang of friends here.

Inside, it's a different atmosphere entirely. AKA, The Laughing Skull, The Vortex is fun, is almost always crowded, and has delicious food at pretty cheap prices. What more could I ask for?

Okay, I admit it... I had to have a shot of this. Forget the whiskey.

Hope you have a shot of fun this week, too.

Take care.
Candace in Athens.

Worlds Within Worlds

2010-07-13T11:30:00.000-04:00

Ahhhh....

After two+ weeks of High Noon temps, even past sundown, rain came through just after midnight Sunday. And then a steady rain again late last night. And then this very afternoon, a T'storm with wind and torrential downpour ... alas, turning my little neck of the woods into a Turkish bath. But at least the plants, the crops, the flowers, the animals had a break from that sullen eye in the sky.

Between snapshots out my window and back door, the temporary respite proved good for more artistic endeavours as you will see later... perhaps this next photo should be in the "Sunday Reflections" I sometimes do! Not only is there a mirror image of the bistro set, but even the canopy of trees can be seen.

The Weather Channel SAID a cold front had moved out and that this is what helped us to have precipitation. A cold front! Oh yeah? Well, it was 96 Fahrenheit at 4PM in The Classic City, Bub. I have to wear cotton duds or my clothes will melt right off... how can it be cold in the midst of such heat? I know, I know... don't take it literally.

Say, what is it about the colour yellow that keeps sneaking in here? Is it just my subconscious acting up, trying to make sense from seeing that cheerful sunny hue at the start of each morning quickly turn into a fiery furnace?

And what is it about the circle? Also referred to as a sphere, is it the lure of that most common of geometric designs, seen in all cultures throughout time? Is it the science geek in me? The shape of our (known) worlds, even that environment where we all begin is spherical -- am I simply reaching out these days, to connect all the dots (also round)? Mmmm....

How I love to just put pen and pencil to paper and let these Lovely Ladies out to play, come rain or shine.

Take care, the rest of you lovelies.

New

2010-07-12T00:12:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone!

This is another new "Lovely Lady" ... and a closeup, this time, not one of the smaller ones I've started up. You will see her twice here, before ...

... and after I took pen and pencil to her.

Such different looks on the same piece of paper. It always astonishes me.

On a recent day trip, T and I went up to the North Georgia mountains, and stopped here for starters. I had to -- the sign was too alluring. But that's another story for another time.

Take care!

Candace, Still in Athens.

From Nowhere

2010-07-10T23:40:00.000-04:00

Images come bubbling up from nowhere sometimes.

Sometimes they flash across your mind from a near faded memory... or a brilliantly remembered moment when you were somewhere else... or even someone else.

Sometimes they drop in from a dream

or a piece of music or even a conversation you were part of that made Art Shenanigans prick up those ears!

And all you can do is turn the blog back on and share.

Take care.

Candace, Still Thankfully in Athens.

Lovely Lady Brigade

2010-07-07T16:55:00.000-04:00

Hello!

Here's a lovely lady (Victorian, it seems) who will be made of (mostly) paper... WIP. I'm making a series of them for this year. Who knows, they may wind up on my Art Tree! They might end up in a magazine. (oh do tell! But first, cross your fingers.) I hope to place her against a little 3-D steampunkery for fun.

These Lovely Ladies are small and sweet, and some are for folks in and around my life -- all of them, too, "just as sweet as pie", as we say in the Deep South.

Speaking of the Deep South, I am thinking of Denise (So. Africa), whose mother needs our very kindest thoughts... as does she. Go say hello, won't you? You may blame all the tomfoolery on me. And I am thinking of all you Yanks who may be caught up in the Sun's mighty fierce heatwave this year.

Take care, everyone, wherever you are.

Candace, Still in Athens.

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T23:19:00.001-04:00

My Art Tree for the month of July reflects the ol' Red, White and Blue right down to the flowers (all reds, whites and blues) as well as the Barbies -- in variations on those same colours. Oh, okay, one of the Barbies is in a tuxedo... that's another story for another time.

Hello Everyone!

Isn't it funny how this trio of colour runs so deep for so many? Not just for us Yanks but our "cousins" across The Pond with their Union Jack -- and farther on, Viva la France! Same colours. The British colonies of New Zealand and Australia, countries in their own right, show the triage as well as the stars and stripes.

Long may they wave.

And here's the Red, White and Blue Trifle I made for today's holiday bash... YUMMO. Folks gobbled it right up.

See you next week, Peeps! I'm having a Hot Fun in the Summertime Art Shenanigan Day with Kitten. Whew... finally our paths cross again. And it's always a blessing, believe me.

Take care.

Candace, Still in Athens.

Alice, Put The Kettle On

2010-06-26T11:05:00.000-04:00

-- and we'll all have tea.

Hello everyone!

First things first. Thanks so much to Vanessa of A Fanciful Twist for putting this show on for us today -- for the third annual Mad Tea Party. If you go here, you will be able to view so so many Blogovians having their MAD TEA PARTIES.

Now, I am not mad. Just a little dizzy! Ha! You would be too if your pen just magically started drawing on its own, producing some familiar characters ...

And if minutes away from guests arriving, your cat drank up something that caused this --

Say, didn't I tell you to leave that alone? Poor old Kit.

and then because his mantra is curiosity killed the cat but satisfaction brought him back, he nibbled on something and this happened ...

Get him away from the tea set! He's still growing!

Now you won't see the expected crowd. Not even a Red Queen, thank goodness. Altho her ladies in waiting are attending this year. I hear they are fast friends with Tweedledee and Tweedledum, but I think they are a bit easier on the eyes.

But you see the ever so charming Miss Wonderland plus a couple of faces you might just recognize, guests who rarely are invited anywhere. That girl with her personal White Rabbit, for instance.

Although for the life of me, I can't imagine why no one would invite a pig!

I hope you are enjoying the day, tea or no tea. If there is no tea, have mercy! Just get you a cuppa joe.

Candace, Still in Athens.

You Are Hereby Commanded

2010-06-24T22:15:00.000-04:00

By The Red Queen

To Have A Spot of Tea & Magic

With Molly Brown & Company

Saturday, 26 June, 2010

At 4PM Eastern Time.

Art Shenanigans Will Be In Attendance.

Your Pal,
Candace. Still In Athens.
Reports of My Demise Have Been Greatly Exaggerated

Adopted Goes Two Ways

2010-05-24T22:37:00.000-04:00

Hello Everybody!
Remember that early March evening in 2008 when Chris and Misha let friends know that Devon was going to show up? He will be TWO this September.

And now, just look at him. Tempus fugit, for real! He has teeth. He's talking! And he is such a great little kid. I’ve adopted him as my Stand In Nephew/Baby. His shirt says “iPood”. (And yes, it was from me, if you doubted it! His adopted Aunt Candace is nothing if not off the chain.)

The Happy Family. We met at De Palma’s in downtown Athens for dinner. We had just seen each other for lunch at one of our most favourite of places – The Last Resort. So Saturday was a Double Bubble wad of pleasure. Devon was in excellent form the entire day, flirting with and charming the waitresses and other diners.

Work and other matters have kept me from creating and posting as much and as often as I like. That’s just the way it’s going these days. But earnings is winding down -- so I hope (ah, hope -- that most elusive and irritating of words and concepts) to be catching up, and will be back next week, sharing some creative bits with you for real. As it stands now, here are some very early sketches...

A detail of a piece called "Mr and Mrs Happy Together".

Masque.

I hope to paint this one.

" I'll Have A Shirley Temple".

Until then, don’t forget Vanessa’s Mad Tea Party here. And Victorian Lady has a lovely inclusion as does Sarah in this copy of Art Doll Quarterly. And speaking of babies… ! Congrats, Mere! It’s always good to hear from friends and especially with news like hers.

Say, what's THIS? Well, it's my last ever (okay, okay, for a while) Sake Bomb. Two dollah! Into a glass of PBR Light, we sink the ubiquitous hot sake cup. And presto, change-o! A delight on a hot Southern afternoon, trust me.

And just why is it the last? Well, Peeps, I am on this new super duper medication regime (for a few weeks, nothing serious!) and that means NO al-kee-hall for a while. Sigh. Let us pray... ! No shellfish and now, no liquor. But a gal's gotta do what a gal's gotta do.

Now, if they tell me No Coffee, as My mom used to say, "I might as well curl up my toes."

Take care, everyone. Back in a few.

Candace

SouthWorks 2010 and More

2010-05-05T23:08:00.000-04:00

Hello there!
Come on in and just sit a spell. It's been a while. But better late than never... Anyway, as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words so do let these photos do the talking for me. (Fat chance, I know...)

Last week, I finally made it to SouthWorks, an annual artfest in nearby Watkinsville held every spring -- and would you believe it, it's the first time I've been? I always forget or I'm away or I'm working. Not this time, though.

T enters the SouthWorks 2010 Juried Art Exhibition in the OCAF Cultural Centers Building. OCAF sponsors this thriving art community and why don't we go just go from the ridiculous to the sublime? I think most of you know that's what I usually do anyway.

Now look, there is NO WAY I can show it all. So I took pix of my and T's (mostly MY) favourites. If you want to see the whole she-bang, you need to come visit us next May. I think that's only fair.

The Three Graces by Barbara Balzer.

If I had the bucks, this sculpture and the next one would have come home with me. Honest. My measly photos cannot do them justice. I took more than one angle of each, and you will understand why in a second.

Next is APPRENTICE by Barbara Balzer. 24 inches tall.

(T finally insisted I get away from this and give other people a chance to look it over.)

The next two are quilts. I can only remember the first one's title.

THE LOVERS. This one is gorgeous -- multidimensional and very tactile. And look at her pocketbook! incredible!

T and I thought of our friend Jeanne who made each of us a sweet half quilt before she left for her new life in London two years ago.

Fun, huh? There's more where this all came from but not today, Kids.

Say, don't forget to register for Vanessa's Mad Tea Party! It's not too late to join in!

I am so there on June 26th. Hope to see you too.

And, I am working on another doll... and speaking of dolls, look at THIS fun post. Congrats to Sarah! So thrilled to see her work up and at 'em.

Take care.

Candace

Changing Our Spots

2010-04-25T19:00:00.000-04:00

First Look....
Can the leopard change her spots?

Meet Kat Fish. Her two photos show a bit of the work put in her. She's about a foot long.

Yes, as Kitten said, her name is perhaps a little corny but there IS such a creature as a Leopard Fish. So I’ve made the Leopard Fish my first merdoll. And just wait till I do my Lion Fish Merman. Dreadlocks you will not believe. Here she is stuffed almost totally and I am showing what I used to work on her. I put the denim and leopard fabric on felt... 4 sheets/$1 at HL... and glued the leopard skin onto the denim.

Kitten’s doll was quite the winner! We bugged Hobby Lobby for a while, looking at what else could be up re: the doll’s custom wear. This is a first glimpse. Neither of us have what I’d call “finished” works. But I do love this "mod" look Kitten's Long Tall Sally is sporting.

Alas, I did not even get started well on mine until we had Art Shenanigans over. Wild weather plus work, to be exact, plus T had a very rough evening and day healthwise and is still not up to snuff. Errands all day by myself on Sunday do NOT count as a day off.

Not to complain, however! Art Shenanigans is fun, no matter what! PLUS, I learned a new stitch, called the blanket stitch, and got some fun sites to look at as well, including one of my favourites -- which you can check out here. (I have it as Doll, under My Blog List.)

Mimi Kirchner is just fantastic in her work and all around daily philosophy. And I do love her fishies! Being a water sign, I guess I would.

Have a great week, everyone! Say, and what are you reflecting on??? Speaking of which, check out all those reflecting lights around those girls!
Take good care.
Candace

Earth Angels

2010-04-22T09:40:00.000-04:00

Of course, you know her. Considered the most famous of paintings, this considered beauty is actually eclipsed by another on several lists.

Yet, almost everyone on our planet knows who she is. Her reputation precedes her. Nat King Cole sang a song about her. There’s a movie with her name, a British film about a mysterious woman who brings a man to ruin… of course. (What else are mysterious women good for, if not that? Yawn…)

And then there is “Flaming June”. My most favourite of Victorian paintings could not be sold, even for a mere pittance -- $160.00 (!!!) -- in the Swinging Sixties. The style had fallen out of favour so no one wanted her or anything like her. She now resides in the Ponce Museum of Art in San Juan, Puerto Rico. As they say: Priceless.

I saw her up close and personal when I visited my brother and s-i-l a few years ago. She’s considered THE painting of Puerto Rico. I think she should be considered for the painting of Earth Herself.

And say, I wonder who sings about this little earth angel?

Take care!

Candace, Still in Athens.

More Fun With Reflections

2010-04-18T23:26:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone!

After a furiously fast and busy Saturday, I was ready for Sunday Reflections and found a fun subject with glassware at The Royal Peasant, my local pub, while T shopped at Earthfare.

My own happy glass of Blackthorn cider… giving me pause to reflect on the past week, as well as "drowning my sorrows" over losing glasses of a very different sort. Yep. I sure did. My prescription glasses are gone, baby, gone -- somewhere between the door and the car. A time portal nabbed them, no doubt.

But all is not doom and gloom in the Classic City. Earlier today, while visiting Athens Antiques, I found this beauty still there. I first saw her sitting all by her lonesome last summer. Never did I think she would still be waiting for someone to claim her, name her and take her away…

But there she was and away her carefully packaged self went, home to 235, keeping company with a couple of cigar box treasures.

Just look at Romeo y Juliet. That's artwork, isn't it? And the wood is perfect.

Below is a shot of the teacup and saucer T had to have. (Almost as bad as I am.)

A trio of very old dolls I named The Gleesome Threesome… and yes, of course, they’ve seen better days, but think about it. Haven’t we all?

And now, The Shape of Things To Come -- no, not the movie! Some templates Kitten gave me on her last visit. She is such a great friend to me. We have a good bond, especially over art and life in general. But say, I wonder what she’s hinting at this time?

I already have bits and pieces started up. Colours have been chosen. Fabrics are in place. I hope to have three of these li'l darlings finished this time next week -- one, a plain old Lovely Lady (okay, I guess if you have a fish tail you can't be too plain); the second, a hinged piece; and the third, a multimedia darling.

Take good care!
Candace

Reflections

2010-04-11T22:58:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone! I'm taking Sunday as an opportunity to reflect on this past week, month, whatever... and using it as a springboard for some fun shots like the ones below.

Like, the April Art Tree in the living room window at the opposite end of the house..

And then another photo, where I zoomed in and just as I snapped the shot, I coughed.

(I think I like this one better, though ... )

And my little birdhouse waits patiently for its transformation, reflecting on the piano Miss Jeanne left with me before moving to Merrie Olde. Hopefully there will be another visit with her soon....

Kitten came over Friday for some fun, a catch up and a gabfest. I finished up the April Hat... say, dig the antenna on the old bug here. Ha, it's actually the handles from a used but still brightly coloured Old Navy bag.

We also made a quick run to Michael's to pop it up a bit more with fabric flowers for extra texture and colour. The little blocks of flowers and birds are from old Coldwater Creek catalogs. The tiny butterfly is Compliments of Kitten.

And speaking of extra, those flowers not used on the "hat", made it onto the April Tree ... more than A Rites of Spring Tree, believe me. Hope you enjoy some of the shots I took.

I love the colours this season especially. Such lush pinks and scandalously bright yellows and those blues just won't sit down and behave! The little bird in the center of the next photo is actually on the cover of an egg shaped box... I might have to fill up THAT particular goody and let it fly away to a friend in need of good cheer.

BUT it's already time to starting thinking past April Showers (we've had one in 11 days so far) and get crackin' on those May Flowers for the Merry Month of May Day Tree.

What are YOU reflecting on as the new week rolls up?

Take care!
Candace, Still in Athens!

Ear Buds

2010-04-08T21:47:00.000-04:00

And now, heeeerrrre's Kitten! (Applause) Gosh, it was so good to see her Sunday. I feel like it's been forever since we got together for GirlTime and Art Days.

Shown here modeling what every fashionista will be wearing this year... and she made them herself from felt. I have to have some!

She not only looks good, she can listen to whatever her heart desires while doing whatever needs doin' -- like More Art Shenanigans at My House Friday!

Another view above of the objets d'art.

Take care! I'll be back Sunday.

Candace

Happy

2010-04-04T23:16:00.001-04:00

Spring to you. We have had great weather which has put everyone in great moods.

Miss Bun is enjoying the season

while I continue to enjoy what she's bringing along in the basket!

This is about three feet from my upper back deck. A MONTH ago, these were bare branches with snow. Amazing how they just keep coming back every year...

Went to a wonderful event with plenty o’ steampunk shenanigans -- including real Victorian Easter Egg Hunts complete with egg races with spoons on the lawn. Steampunk is a lot of fun but as T says, "sticking a gear in it and wearing funny round glasses doesn't make it steampunk". We saw quite a few aficianados like us who are into this fun phenomenon.

This guy came all the way from TAMPA to join in the fun.

And NASHVILLE.

Mrs. Cynthia McCloud, local author and lecturer and she makes a good cup of tea, too! Managed to get to a meet and greet she was sponsoring for a big steampunk convention. It was just nice to sit and chat.

I hope you enjoyed a few of the photos I managed to snap while getting (Steam) Punk’d. Say, guess who came for a visit when I returned to the Classic City?

Tune in this week for some ART Shenanigans.

Hasta la pasta!

Candace

LILIES

2010-03-30T22:21:00.000-04:00

Of The Valley. Everywhere. I mean, my entire yard looks like a pastoral version of "Day of The Triffids". They have taken over and now threaten the neighbors.

And if these flowers can take off like a shot, why won’t my tomatoes get fruitful and multiply? Stay tuned as I open the first of seven seals to get the answer, apocalyptic though it may be.

Speaking of flowers, get a load of these daffodils.

I’ve heard of double blooms but seriously, there are layers and layers bunched up in these li’l darlings. Makes me think of prom dresses I have known and loved!

My own little flower girl.

And I ended the past week by baking up a little treat for T and Me -- real scones with Devonshire cream to the side, along with a soupcon of Chocolate and Raspberry Topping (very very light, despite its name).

Tea? Mais non, My Cherie Amour, we had Larry’s Beans, a fantastically delicious Fair Trade coffee – the flavour? Mexique.

I'm ending this post by sharing a visit with Amy at her STUDIO. You remember Amy, don’t you?

Amy is cutting up a pair of T's pants to make knickers. T is going for a steam punk paper boy look. That's T in the upper left, drawing something or other...

Remember the following shot. You'll see that far right corner again, promise. And this is definitely a working studio. Amy is a true professional, sews almost every day and has been since she was 9. (I think I was still fascinated by ants carrying away grains of sand when I was that age.)

One of several industrial sewing stations.

You name it -- it's probably here as Amy readies last minute orders, repairs, sketches, fittings and patterns. This is not even half of the stash.

A corner where Amy pins up photos, ads, etc for inspiration and ideas while keeping up with the minutaie of her day, week, month. See that Bichon Frise? Amy has two... and they are real characters, let me tell you.

Remember that corner? And remember those pants? T couldn't quite get the hang of one of the seams... Amy to the rescue. (I think I was outside, watching those ants again.)

A few of the bolts of fabrics Amy works with and from. I felt like any second Scherherazade was going to show up ...

Of course, Amy made the mistake of saying she had buttons -- of course she would have buttons! -- and I had to have a shot of them. There is no way of telling you how much fun T had looking for the right buttons for the knickers. Incredible collection, trust me.

Okay, that's enough for now, Kids. Go to bed!

Candace x

Woody

2010-03-23T23:33:00.000-04:00

Need I say more?

Wish it was a better shot, I guess, is all I can say. I’ve been trying for this fellow for four years and finally got him.

Life is good. Life is also pretty busy even as the earnings season finally wraps up like a package, and we have maybe a moment to catch a breath before the next one begins.

Say, who do you think lives down there?

Not that Fast Eddie cares much about anything else but his corn bar, rain or shine, on the upper deck. It's 24/7. And Happy Hour? A little corn liquor, no doubt.

Take care! Art Shenanigans is stopping by this weekend.

Candace

Calling Cards

2010-03-14T23:37:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Oh yes, She’s arrived. A week early but at this point, I'll take whatever I can get. Seriously, it's No. Problem.

And She is likely here as well, cheering this young one on. A blossoming of a very different sort.

What hope there may be, yet! You. Go. Girl. Thanks to Susan Sanford of Art Spark Theatre for hipping me to this.

I am indeed working on Beauty:3-D. Does Beauty need a Beast?

Mmm… what a good question. Perhaps a survey is in order. It’s quite like having Light without the Dark. How would we know which is which, when we come to –

The End?

Take care. Barbiepalooza is on its way.

Candace

EIKONOGRAPHIA

2010-03-07T22:31:00.000-05:00

A Greek word, made from two, the English version being iconography.

This is the Holy Trinity in the Deep South. Rather than blasphemous, I am being honest. Go below the Mason Dixon line and you find this trio right here –

Elvis, Church, and Coca-Cola. Not always in this order... go figure. It squicked me at first to do a work with Jesus AND Elvis in the same frame and then I thought “just go for it. You can’t get in any more trouble than you’re already in!” Not the best work I've done but I usually have better results when I work from complete scratch and make my own "stuff". Also, this is a 140 lb cold press with a deeper "tooth".

Here's a note: when working in coloured pencil it's perfectly okay to put a little squib of water on the tip even if it is not a "watercolour pencil" IF the tooth is very noticeable. It gives you a smoother result if you like that. If you look close you'll see all the flaws from the tooth's edge.

Above is some of my personal iconography… I doubt it will mean anything to anyone but myself. However, there is a sense of love and sacrosanctity with some of these Shenanigans, even the "profane" ones. (Gosh, what a big concept this could be. Icons, yes. But I do think more in terms of linguistics, semantics, "words words words" to quote W. Shakespeare.)

I really enjoy the Journaling in January challenges from Misty Mawn and regret that they come in January – one of my busiest times of year, professionally AND (this year) personally. It was hard to stay on track, let alone on time.

Here at the Crowne Plaza in Atlanta, with a shot of the steampunk goggles T made earlier this month. They go great with that hat, eh? Sorry it's not a better photo. Later for sure, kids.

Okay, I have to get back to the Oscars. I've not missed it in LO! these many years. And so far, I have gotten all but one right. Take care.

Candace

Clowning Around

2010-03-05T16:08:00.000-05:00

Look. At. That. Hair.

My latest Shenanigan looked familiar but I couldn't place her until T asked me if she was a Koshari.

Never one to like clowns – most of them malicious rather than mischievous, if you know their history – I nonetheless find these fellows totally charming in an endearing, goofy way.

Maybe it's the wild get uppery and the cornstalkish hair they sport.

My Amish Girl has an extreme 'do, as well. Her locks are more or less covered up per religious instruction and the dogma of her own tribe.

Funny how we decorate ourselves, even when we don’t.

I’m off on a goofy adventure of my own this weekend. Won’t you join me Sunday for a chorus of “From the Sacred to the Profane”?

Take care!

Candace, Still In Athens.

Blooms and Buttons

2010-03-03T23:53:00.000-05:00

"Won't you come into the garden? I would like my roses to see you." Who said that?

And these are the buttons Amy gave me this Sunday. They may very well go on my steampunk outfit Easter weekend... and they look like real pearls, don't they? sigh... you should see them in person.

Bloom where you are planted.

Candace

In Like A (Snow) Lion

2010-03-02T13:56:00.001-05:00

AKA -- Didn’t We Just Leave This Party?

Yep. Snow again! Athens has had more snow this year than it has in a very long time.

I guess that old saw about March coming in like a lion this year means coming in like The Celestial Snow Lion from Tibet. My Pal Jeanne can tell you the other side of the story here. And, a nice memory -- some years ago, when the Dalai Lama came to Atlanta, T and I went to the events and saw the monks' version of The Snow Lion Dance. Joyful, comedic, 100% dazzling -- sans bling.

That Redheaded Girl is going to have a real feathered top when I redo her as a doll. Speaking of which…

Our Beauty is out and about, checking out materials for her -- ummm -- hairdo this week. Kitten and I think tiny beads will work, threaded on the copper coil wrapped around raffia and real hair… there may even be a corn doll version. She will still be in Imperial Yellow, a tip of the hat to the Chinese New Year and Empress Cixi. I've been reading about Cixi and realize she's everywhere. If you read the article (longish), you might be surprised too.

Maybe not as surprised when you see me this weekend, but still --.

Take care,

Candace

March Madness!

2010-03-01T00:30:00.000-05:00

So, besides a long-anticipated funtasmic visit from Kitten and her hero ... what do you think went on this weekend? More bitterly cold winds, with a forecast of Tuesday snow mix after last week's gorgeous Spring Promise.

And these jack rabbits, as well --

waiting for their appointed rounds to come 'round, so to speak. Are these little fellows going to look great on my March Madness Hat or what?! Yes, not a simple paper crown this time but a real honest to goodness H.A.T.

Kitten is doing some fun stuff with paper dolls and our next Art Shenanigans Day will see us doing all sorts of "dolled up" stuff. Raffia for doll hair? Copper coil for more doll hair? Grape vines for yet more doll hair? Say, anything is possible in this place.

Take care, Peeps!

Candace

Beauty

2010-02-25T15:30:00.000-05:00

There is no excellent beauty that hath not some strangeness in the proportion.

Wouldn't this be great as a doll? I don't mean a paper doll, either.

Take care,

Candace

Shirt Sleeve Sunday

2010-02-22T01:21:00.000-05:00

And did we ever need it!

Minding my own biz (for once), I rolled up those Sunday shirt sleeves and made my way down to the edge of the driveway where I promptly took over. I was armed and ready. Good for the challenge. Fighting fit and ready to engage...

And then I did this. Hail his majesty the sun... for if winter comes, can Spring be far behind? And then I noticed something and just could not resist.

Can you see it? Do you see what I see?

Well, how about now?

I admit it, I turned as lazy as a big orange cat, napping in the you know what ... but while getting my weekend post all ready to shine like a big ol' star, Our Very Own Star came out today, bringing a nice 70 or so Fahrenheit with it, making this day of days a Shirt Sleeve Sunday. Thanks, Sol!

And thanks for those birthday cards, and Sarah, your lovely artcard came right on time! What a lovely drawing... and Jeanne was so kind to post good wishes on my Facebook. Denise sent the handmade Happy Birthday, along with a very fun "CARE package". Goodness!

My much-loved Thister sent the Black Sheep of the Family card, with a hysterical inside message. (Yes, I do look good in black. And I do look good in wool! But on a day like today, I wore pinks and oranges -- how appropriate!)

Mmm... guess which card is from T? Hint: Look for the party animal! What the...??? Freak from T, black sheep of the family from Thister -- ahhhh. Good to know my reputation remains intact.

Speaking of party animals, the Girls loved their very own party favours (Milkbones). Of course, they would.

And Here She Is ... a peek at Persephone's Spring 2010 Line. Dig that veil --

-- which She will be tearing off soon enough, wide awake once again as She hightails it through the fields on Her annual trip home to Mama, leaving flowers and healing tenderness in Her wake.

Get More of What You Love.

Candace

Cardinal Sin

2010-02-15T22:28:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I do things that end up making me want a slug of tequila ... and these are things I MEANT to do.

Hello everyone!

Yes, I boobooed My Cardinal oil pastel. Didn't quite get that sunset to work the way I wanted it but was quite sure I'd end up with a muddy look if I did NOT stop... so, for once, I did. Oh well.

Below is Cardinal at Sunset, done on 140 lb cold press with oil pastels, a medium I am not very down with. I understand now what I did "wrong". I know, I know... some folks say there is no wrong in art, but let's not kid ourselves here. It might not be so much that my art is wrong, per se, but the execution itself lacks a certain panache.

As they say, try, try again. Which I will!

The Stone Prince by Regehr is below, followed by my own "version" of it will -- alas! not quite finished. Still working on it. I have been swamped for several reasons, not the least of which is work and company from out of town. Regehr (check out his website here) is someone whose artistic influences were a lot of mine as well. Schiele, Klimt, the PreRaphaelites.

More coming on Friday, as well, especially -- ta-da -- Iconography as tarted up by very truly yours. And the chalk art. By then, I should HOPE The Classic City will be dried out from all the snow and rain. Whew...

Well, Kids, in reference to Cardinal Sin, tomorrow is Mardi Gras... and the day after comes the season of fasting, praying, almsgiving for many. Do you have a "cause"? Or a penance? How do you care for it? I do try to continue to educate myself, talk about it, read about it. I write letters to folks who might further this cause. Sometimes I do art about it... it's the only thing that really soothes the beast.

Take care and let the good times roll.

Candace In Athens.

Will You Be --

2010-02-14T18:31:00.000-05:00

-- My Valentine?

Hello everybody! What a difference a day makes. Look at that sky and the glittering trees off my back deck.

Even the deer looked like set dressing out of a nature documentary today. They're in the Corn Bar, a little dive T and I have fussed up for them. A bucket of corn, and fallen logs they lie down in when the wind blows just right. We've counted seven does and one buck... I suspect the nursery will be busy this year.

It was all I could do to NOT jump the gun and show this before Sarah her own self had a chance to revel in it. Proud of her, proud of the work, too. Go over and look at all her stuff. FUN.

Below is a bit of my exercise from Misty Mawn… and one of my “muses”, like so many others’, is/was Frida Kahlo. My own interpretation here is “Frida with Photo”, instead of “Frida with Monkey”. (Once I went to a party as Frida with a sock monkey on my shoulder. Well, I couldn’t find a live one, so I had to make do.)

Tomorrow you will see my version of The Stone Prince, an oil painting by Duncan Regehr. I traveled to Arizona to see a retrospective of his work some years back and have spoken to him on the phone. Nice. And I haven’t forgotten the ICONOGRAPHY, trust me. That is coming up this Friday, 19 Feb, My very own birthday. WOOT. I’ll be 50. Again.

Plus there will be chalk portraits, done in chalk -- gee, imagine that! I love how they look and have always wanted to do chalk art -- just because. This too is from the Journaling in January work. This might have been the only time I wanted January to last longer... time just ran out!

And now, today, one of the very best of holidays – one that blossomed for love’s sake itself.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Kids! Look just a little familiar? I can’t help myself! Time for less grays and more reds, if you ask me. And while the snow is still here, it's melting fast -- but now we're told more snow is on its way! Mmmmmm. Is that rascally Mother Nature trying to tell us something?

Get More of What You Love.
Candace

Bleak House 2010

2010-02-12T23:33:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone.

The snow was unexpected in The Classic City and maybe even more beautiful because of it,

and if you look you will see the deer frisking in the woods between falling flakes.

Trees that have held on to pale golden leaves well past autumn shone bright as beacons in the now whited-out field.

I know that I believe in love. And my sister believes in sending me birthday cards a week early.

But after an old family friend's devastating passing, it's hard to concentrate, hard to work, hard to do Art, hard to be anywhere but Bleak House

where the present seems too cold for comfort and the past shines like those golden leaves, the future suddenly dark and uncertain.

I'll be back Sunday. I haven't forgotten I have some things to show you.

Get What You Love.

Candace

Cartoon Wednesday

2010-02-03T22:22:00.001-05:00

Hello!
Okay, okay ... not so much cartoons as just some fun Valentine drawings to share. These are works in progress. That string tied to her finger? I bet she wants to remember to give her heart to someone this year!

I am revving up to send out handmade cards this weekend for the Big V-Day.

This year, I really look forward to the 14th.

First, it's on a Sunday, and that means no work. Maybe a nice brunch with my peeps at The Last Resort, and perhaps a movie at the dollar show ...

Or even a nap like these two sluggards here!

Who knows? The heart's the limit!

Get More of What You Love.

Candace

Arthouse -- Part 2

2010-01-31T23:28:00.000-05:00

Hello Again! Yesterday, I gave you a peek at the (now travelling) Arthouse Sketchbook Project 4: Library from Atlanta, Georgia, before it goes to Brooklyn and beyond, ending up finally in the Smithsonian Museum -- somewhere.

While that show was the point of my trip there and back again, another fun and phantasmagoric exhibit was taking place. Called “Chair”, Arthouse Cooperative had sounded the call to do whatever the artists wanted to do with the word and its concept – or construct, as the case may be.

So here are my favourites from "Chair". Hopefully, you can click on the image for a larger view and catch the artist’s name and country of origin. Some were unavailable, for some reason... mmm.

I love black eyed susans. And these just set off the photo with the sheer brilliance of their colour.

Below is Old Sparky from Florida. Can you see the skulls and ghostly faces?

This reads: "Child Of World War II". A hint of the housing developments going up everywhere at the time is just behind the girl. Maybe it was moving day... but, in or out? Was her dad home from the war? Was her mom one of the many Rosie the Riveters, making a new life for herself and her girl? So many possibilities are in this simple black and white photo.

My all-time favourite. What it means, I have no idea and really don’t care. I love sheep and this particular piece made me laugh...

The next two shots are shining examples of this throw-away society we're saddled with now.

Is this gorgeous or what? There was no name or country on this one.

And this cut out from Lucia Serrano of Portugal was such fun. That blue dazzled the eye!

Next to the sheep trio, I liked this one best. The composition and colours were so eyecatching and vibrant.

These chairs had to be shot from a weird angle to work. They lined the rather expansive window sill and weren't even as big as my index finger. I like miniatures and these were super fine.

Say, tomorrow is 1 February. It's time to starting thinking about Valentines!

Have one on me!

Get more of what and who you love.
Candace, Still In Athens.

Arthouse Sketchbook Project 4: Library

2010-01-30T20:28:00.000-05:00

Hello there! Yes, I did indeed manage to get into Atlanta during some rather cold raw weather to check out the last day of The Arthouse Sketchbook Project --

not to mention the last days of The Arthouse Cooperative itself. The gallery is moving to Brooklyn NY pronto! No kidding, in a couple of weeks they have their grand opening, along with the Sketchbook Project.

I snapped this poignant little shot of the gallery's logo, which reads: "and then go north for 896 miles. Thanks for everything, Atlanta!"

Shane said I was the ONLY person who asked about it and took a photo. I think people were just too down in the mouth about losing them... they've done such fun, good things with and for artists -- not just from Atlanta but it seems everywhere on Earth that knows about them.

I tell you -- there's not much sadder sight than a gallery being packed up. But until that time, let's have a PARTY!

The Arthouse Cooperative is/was at 309 Peters Street in downtown Atlanta. I don't know who that clown is.... some poser.

This is the "official poster" for Sketchbook Project 4.

Here are the "how to do this" lists. You had to check out the books (which had their own cards) on Friday night so none would be misplaced or uh -- ahem -- take a walk.

Below are the themes for this year's project, in no particular order.

This fine lad is Shane His Own Self -- one of the owners/proprietors -- looking for Anne Gaal's and Sarah Wallis's sketchbooks for T and me.

Anne Gaal's Sketchbook Project: The Elephant in the Room.

And Sarah Wallis's Sketchbook Project: Outside of Myself.

FYI, Anne's and Sarah's were two of the very few -- as in a handful -- of artists who dressed up the outsides of their sketchbooks. Most folks either left them alone or did as I did (mine is hiding behind Sarah's there) and only added a small bit or put a drawing on the cover.

But as you can see from their works, they totally CHANGED the outside of the journal. Which caused a bit of chatter... good going, girls!

T checked out the entire group of "Outside of Myself", before perusing all of "The Elephant in the Room" stash. We then looked over the theme of "It's Not Easy Being Green" (yours truly) and an intriguing group of sketchbooks with the theme of "Monster".

All in all, there were 2700 books. No way could I have gone through them all even if I had been there for both days. I also took shots of another project going on quietly in the background called "Chair". That's what you see on the walls in some of these here photos. More on those in my next post along with other -- dare I say it? -- eyecandy! smirk...

Michelle and Devon showed up, which was so so appreciated. The way the weather was, I didn't expect anyone really, but sure enough, there was a small but steady stream of patrons. By the way, Devon's favourite Sketchbook Project was Anne's. He loves elephants and had the best time quietly checking out the pages as Mom turned them.

I told Shane "Next year, I'll make Brooklyn for Project 5." He seemed totally stoked over that and asked, "Do you think those other ladies will come, too?" Yeah, how about it, Anne and Sarah? Can you imagine what our Gleesome Threesome could do?

About that tree...! Remember, I was leaving the ol' Holly Jolly Christmas tree up and celebrating everything possible on it this year. Sort of my own "arthouse project".

This is the beginnings of the Valentine Tree. More on that Sunday, 14 February -- which is ALSO Chinese New Year this time out the gate. I suppose I should look for a paper tiger for a topper! And let's not forget Mardi Gras!

Take care, everyone.

Candace

Artists - Journaling in January

2010-01-12T23:10:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone.

This week, I joined the first Journaling in January 'task' and am picking and/or making art in the style of 7 artists who have influenced me or who people say my work is like, for whatever reason. Tonight I am showing you one of them for the 300th post. The rest will be in a journal and shared Saturday or Sunday... just in time for the next week's task!

I picked Egon Schiele (pronounced SHEE-la) -- here is one of his pieces. And below it is mine. He saw and knew of war, disease, starvation firsthand and what people did, like it or not, to survive. Some of his artwork is considered grotesque and there is often a(n uncomfortable) sexuality to some of these pieces.

Well, we still have those unpleasant things he showed the world in his art. That is what I consider grotesque, not the art itself. I like beauty in my art and in my life, who doesn't? But now and then comes a photo, a painting, or song lyrics or a book that just stops you in your tracks and makes you think: why is this still going on?

Often Egon Schiele did line drawings, black and white or with some colour, as I do. Often, there is no real background, his subjects just hang in space commanding you to look at them and nothing else. I like that. I like that he was contrary and eccentric and had a big shock of wild hair and lived his life and art like he really did have something to say.

I also have some work over on my Sketchbook Project blog you may (or may not) like. Check it out!

Take care!

Candace

Can You Believe It?

2010-01-09T00:07:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Yes, it really did snow altho we did not get pounded as so many other places did. Here's a tee tiny bit of ice on my upper deck. Look hard, you'll see it. We also sported an inch of powder which managed to hang on through most of the day. My mom would have really stressed over her baby girl not having every inch of skin covered up in 12F weather. I wasn't wearing a jacket either!!!

Say, my next post will be the big 300. And while I do wish it was THIS 300 (speaking of every inch of skin being covered up!), I guess that's impossible unless I crawl into a time machine.

All I can tell you is how I appreciate all you Kids in Blogovia. In two cases I've actually met a couple of My Art Shenanigan Peeps -- the MOST surprising being from my hometown. The farthest I've gone was to the UK, admittedly to primarily visit a coworker who'd moved there from Atlanta -- but since I was there anyway... gee, why not?

And I do so vow to make the next 300 (deep breath) better than the last 300.

Starting Monday evening, every night this next week I will make some type artwork that is all about the artist(s) that influenced me or that I am attempting to 'copy'. The next week of Jan will have me trying out all sorts of supplies for artworks and pieces. And of course, the last week of the month will be, as stated before, all about ICONOGRAPHY.

So drop in when you can! You are always more than welcome.

Get More of What You Love.

Candace

Journaling In January

2010-01-06T22:30:00.000-05:00

Hi Everybody!

They're getting serious about the snow around here. Schools have already been called off in Atlanta in advance of the impending apocalypse as it juggernauts towards us. We haven't had a snow yet as the winter is still young -- not even a month old by anyone's guesstimation. However, last March's snowstorm, as you may recall, caught everyone by surprise.

From Misty Mawn’s site comes "Journaling in January". Go here to see what I will be doing, along with Misty and others. For the first week , I am choosing Kahlo and Beardsley, as is Misty, coincidentally -- as well as Regehr, Schiele, Modigliani, Burne-Jones, and Klimt.

I treated myself to one post holiday shopping item and am so happy with this comprehensive Stamping book I found at B&N and on the cheap. Should be fun and I will keep you all posted on any projects with those. The info may very well come in handy with the Journaling in January project.

This illustration is Ex Libris and is the first illustration in My Sketchbook Journal.

Note: I have to think back a long, long way to remember a time when my sister in law was not in my family. She called today to inform me that a first cousin -- whom many were close to in this large, extended family I have -- has died. He had been quite ill for a long while, and yesterday, he suffered a massive coronary which he just could not stand against. While being one of the youngest in such a big family isn’t without its perks, it does come with watching not only the rise but the inevitable decline of those who once seemed so invincible and bigger than Life itself.

Get More of What You Love.
Candace, still in Athens.

Heads Up!

2010-01-04T20:20:00.000-05:00

Hi Everybody!

Starting January 5th, I'll be posting the artwork that's in My Sketchbook Project for The Art House Co-operative on My Other Blog -- Candace In Athens. This arts organization was originally located in Atlanta but is pulling up stakes for Brooklyn in February. The first showing of My Sketchbook will be in Atlanta in January! They then go to Brooklyn for two shows, on my birthday weekend -- WOW, would I love to go then and there! -- and then on to Chicago and Los Angeles and who knows where else? This is just what I remember for now.

But enjoy the sneak peek for now.

I'm so excited to go to Atlanta and see not only my own "Little Sketchbook That Could" but those of friends such as Sarah Wallis and Anne Gaal, along with others I probably don't even remember or know about! Yahoo!

I am also leaving the Tree up. I know, I know -- that old saw about bad luck, but the Christmas Shenanigans are down Jan 6 (Epiphany or Greek Christmas). Along with the Paper Hats Collection I'm having this year, I'm decorating the Tree for changing seasons and holidays this year that come throughout the months. I love to make and hang things -- gizmos and handmade/homemade stuff, baubles and bling -- and want to have another photo every month to show how this project is going. I think it's just going to be F.U.N.!

And yes, Barbie gave me the idea. So she really is good for some things rather than just beign a pretty face!

What else am I doing? Preparing for SNOW Thursday. Up to three inches. There's another Atlanta trip to make Saturday, so I am crossing my fingers that it's just the powdery stuff that disappears pronto!

What are YOU doing, Kids?

Candace

A List of (Non) Resolutions

2010-01-01T20:55:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
While waiting to start "Journaling in January" with Misty Mawn, I want to share a couple of things with You Peeps.

I was listening to Joni Mitchell's song, "Little Green" while I made this art and laid some plans out. Hopefully they won't follow those of the mice and men in Robert Burns's poem "To A Mouse" but will come to good fortunes!

First, I am making new lists. Lists of non resolutions. Resolutions are just too tough sometimes. They have a sense of "or else" in there. So I am making NONs for 2010 -- the new year which is the gateway to a new decade. Wish me luck.

And my main NON for 2010 is to set aside those things that did not (or that no longer) work for Me and My Life, artwise and otherwise, as I move forward in this brand new time, as I travel onward to finding those things that do work. Like Art Days with Kitten --

and to kick it off today, party hats galore for Kitten and me (more like crowns, eh?)! Our first Art Day of 2010. Thanks to Vanessa of A Fanciful Twist for her words of inspiration, fun and derringdo.

We had a ball. I can't state it any plainer than that.

It is My Fervent Hope to make a hat each month to go along with what the month is associated with... mmmm. January is associated with New Year's so I had a festive look back at some things that went or did NOT go... as well as looking forward to new beginnings, new hopes, plans, dreams, projects.

Sugarplums notwithstanding, visions of new and completely doable fun projects are dancing in my head as I type. The next Art Day Kitten and Candy Project is that we plan to make our own paperclay from scratch when we get together. Film at 11.

Speaking of film at 11, it's now 18F here as we inch towards the Midnight Hour, the wind chill even more bitter than usual as an Alberta Clipper comes through. I think how good it is to have this fellow here in a comfortable and comforting place, as he waits patiently for the evening to wind down and for me to come upstairs and give him my UNDIVIDED ATTENTION, which is his just due. Okay, let me restate that -- which he believes is his just due.

For Kitty Boy, however, this new year is like any other year, especially when he adds me to his personal mix. Food and treats, lots of head kisses, naps on the bed, a little fussing, and a lot of pampering. His only NON might be no vets ever again -- but other than this total improbability, things are fine just the way they're shaking out right here and now with him.

To be honest -- with me, too. Take care!

Candace

And A Happy New Year

2009-12-29T19:10:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone.

A few bits here to round out the old year and help usher in the New. Everything has been mailed and in some cases re-mailed. sigh... This includes a CARE package to Hong Kong. What the...?

AND the Sketchbook Project will be over in a few days, the 4th of Jan to be exact. As soon as its deadline is past, I will be putting up the images/art on the other little blog I have, Candace in Athens. I'll keep you posted, as the saying goes.

Captions underneath the photos and away we go...

"Say Uncle" is the name of this -- 3 x 2 on bristol and in coloured pencils and ink for Travis and his Nephew, Devon, whom some of you may or may not know about. In this shot, Michelle was less than a week away from having this totally great kid. If I had had 0ne of these, I would have wanted one like Devon. T said, "Are those Devon's hands or the Uncle's...?" Good question. What do you think?

An experiment in coloured pencils and Crayolas. Will show the Full Monty later. She's a big girl, believe me.

Getting a leg up on Self Portrait Wednesday. A Fish Eye Christmas Photo from last Friday!

This is a card from the talented Anne Gaal. I had asked about how a dragonfly might look on one of her cards and presto, chango! I can't help it, as much as I love dragonflies, it makes me think of Jeanne over here.

Get More of What You Love. Starting Friday, I hopefully will be "Journaling In January" with Misty Mawn here. Check it out!

Candace in Athens.

Happy Boxing Day!*

2009-12-26T21:03:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Somehow I managed to talk Miss Jeanne out of this shoulderbag from Covent Garden... sigh. I owe one of her cousins a favour, I'm sure. But isn't this a great sight on Boxing Day, however?

Below is the beginning of another Paper Lady Brigade. As The Year of The Ox winds down, and as the Colour of the Year (Mimosa) has a last spin around the runway, this lady seems content indeed. Well, if I were Kuan Yin of The 1000 Hands, I suppose I would be too!

Take care -- Old Man Winter is not done yet!

Candace

Love and Joy Come To You

2009-12-24T18:15:00.000-05:00

Candace in Athens.

And How Was Your Week?

2009-12-20T21:44:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

The Three Musketeers at the Royal Peasant. Lifting a glass to one another.

My week was a celebratory time, going on through part of the weekend as well, when I happily visited with my family after a few hours' work -- ick. Work and holidays just do not seem to go together. Ever. And thanks, Paulette (Beedeebabee), for that great card, too!

So, Miss Jeanne (not this one, another totally different one) came to Athens on Tuesday where we happily made short work of a bottle of bubbly as soon as she got in the door! Last year, I visited her during her first holls away from home. She was very happy to be Stateside and we were happy to host her, as you can imagine. I also served boeuf bourguignon.

We stopped by the Globe the next day, to hook up with another coworker/friend and the love of his life --

t he Globe is such a cool bar and grill and once upon a time, upstairs was home to the original 40-Watt Club, made (in)famous by REM, B-52s, etc. I promise to get a photo of that some time for you all. Not at all what most folks imagine.

We went shopping -- of course -- dig those groovy Dutch white bedroom slippers!

I managed a Self Portrait Wednesday in the store, with T mugging in the background. Jeanne cleaned out Old Navy --

and that's when we hopped over to the pub to enjoy some (almost as good as the real thing) pub food and drink.

Jeanne also forked over these nifty gifts below which I just could NOT believe. This sturdy plastic bag (which is the front? Which is the back?) is from her trip to Paris with her grandmother. I met Missy a couple of times when Jeanne lived in Atlanta, and let me tell you, that is a terrific grandparent by anyone's standards, bar none.

This card is a totally fun piece of artwork Jeanne picked up. She knows I do art, mainly drawings, etc.

We saw "Zombieland" Thursday, which was fun, featuring a hoot of a cameo by Bill Murray as himself, then got up early the next morning to take Jeanne back into Atlanta to meet relatives for a ride down to Missy's for Smithmas. Time was running out and we had just started!!!

Where else would we have gone for lunch but to Mary Mac's Tea Room,

an Atlanta institution on Ponce de Leon for the last gazillion years?! How I managed to never have gone before is beyond me. But because we were all virgins -- metaphorically speaking -- we were each treated to a cup of complimentary pot likker and a cornbread muffin with cracklin's. YUMMO.

Jeanne totally approved of this little tidbit.

Look at all this food! It's like Thanksgiving at your mom's house -- huge portions. Yes, I had to get a to-go container.

Jeanne says Southern Fried Chicken, except for KFC, does not exist where she is now. She has been craving it, so why not treat one of my best friends to one of the best Southern restaurants in the state? Not to mention myself and T.

The week was over way way too soon. We handed Jeanne over to Barbara and Chuck and waved goodbye. And on a happy note, guess where T and I plan to go next September? Assuming we don't have to work any Saturdays -- sigh.

Happy Everything, Everyone.

Candace

And The Last One In Is --

2009-12-15T01:21:00.000-05:00

COFFEE MESSIAH! Visit this site for a walk in a wonderland that knows no season, trust me.

Gee whiz, I hope your Winter Wonderland Pal brings you many years of delight, CM. When she arrives, check out that bag she’s carrying! I don’t think it’s a cosmetics bag … If you would, please send me your addy at canwiggins@gmail.com, and she will be on her way pronto!

Now, Class, before the rest of you start giggling about CM getting what may be considered a gender-specific gift, I want you all to remember that we are all equal in the eyes of Old Man Winter… Who has belaboured so many of you in this Brave New Whiteout. I am thinking about all of you getting pummelled in one way or another, and hope all is well.

My last post till just before The Big Kahuna will be this one, because My Big Holiday Shenanigans start tomorrow. Yep, taking a few days off because MISS JEANNE is visiting from London. Can. Not. Wait. The boeuf bourguignon awaits! Then I’ll be going to visit family and friends in another state.

I hope you enjoy some of my shots of The Tree. Yes, it's a prelit, but it's also better than the nothing we've had for several years. I miss the scent of cedar which is what I grew up with...

Do you have a list? Have you been naughty or nice? Both? Neither? How I love some of these old fashioned ornaments. This is the 20th year for some and I do not tire of them. What is that about, I wonder?

Birds and cats and deer adorn my tree as do other "trees" ... homage to the year-round beauty and grace that's here in The Classic City, esp right here at my own doorstep.

And of course, this ornament reminds me of that song that tells us, once you cross Toyland's borders you can never go back again. Even as a child, I thought this song was melancholy.

This fella is brand new, and has a partner on another branch, all dressed in green.

Get More of What You Love.
Candace in Athens.

A Long Winter's Nap

2009-12-04T21:16:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
Just look what came in the mail -- from Beedeebabee's talented self. If you've not seen or visited her blog, I highly highly highly recommend it for an eyepopping and cheering experience. It's great on any day but especially on those days that cloud up on us occasionally -- and I don't mean just the weather, although that's included as well.

I named this brooch "Pearl" in honour of the Dutch white T fostered/sponsored for a while. And did you notice --? It's UGA's colours. Ha! Much appreciated, Paulette.

And as you can see below, from the arch inside my big old scary kitchen, Dutch whites are one of my favourites!

Are you making Advent Calendars this year? You might consider checking out Sarah's Circles of Rain because she is too! As is Nathalie over here. All are delightful...

And it's that time of year for the Athens Indie Craftstravaganzaa Holiday Market, too. It was fantastic last year and held in late November. I missed the Spring Craftstravaganzaa so it's been a whole YEAR since I've seen/chatted with these folks. Can't wait!

Speaking of long winter's naps, I see Molly is ready for hers. Trust me, it's too chilly for "Bonesy" to go out tonight.

Happy Weekend to All and to All A Good Night.

Candace

Last One In Giveaway

2009-11-30T23:30:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

A short post tonight. From now (November 30) till December 10, whoever leaves a comment is put into the "Last One In Giveaway". Say, a couple of you have told me you did not receive your giveaways. What the --??

This is exactly how I feel about this news.

If you are one of those, please please let me know! I have plenty of things here and you must absolutely must receive your prez. Who knows what's going on at the Athens (or any other) post office? I have just sent off Sarah's and Anairam's replacements ... Anyone else? Don't be shy!

Here's my Art Shenanigans Table, covered in all the jetsam and flotsam as I prepare to make something I've not tackled before. Can you tell what it is?

A book. Yep. A fold-out dealie with more gizmos to be shown as it develops. (This is NOT the Giveaway, by the way.)

I've already learned to leave well enough alone the hard way tonight... if it ain't broke, don't fix it! This homily applies to so many things besides Art Shenanigans, too, doesn't it? Speaking of If It Ain't Broke...

here are some drawings which I am leaving alone for now. The backgrounds are all chosen and I am indeed sawing one in half for a different type doll (no voodoo involved in the making of these dolls!).

These heads will be given lovely holiday frocks -- or choir robes, whichever comes first.

Hope you are well and having a great great time as the holidays are upon us all now.

Enjoy them to the fullest and get more of what you love.
Candace

A Feast

2009-11-26T23:32:00.000-05:00

For the eyes as well as the appetite.

T put this centerpiece together PRONTO while I set the table. The little squashes had been bought at the last Farmers Market and into a basket with some front yard greenery they went.

Add a tablecloth, some home cooking, and presto chango! It's Thanksgiving in the Classic City.

We pulled out the stops this year with the “good” china, crystal water glasses, and more than enough food for the two of us as we waited for T’s brother, Steve and his lovely wife Olivia, to join us for our yearly moviefest.

And let me tell you, Kitty Boy knows how to plead a case when a bird is involved.

He turns his nose up at coffee, no matter how it's served. Oh well, no accounting for taste.

It was the first T’Day we have ever had without traveling so it was really nice to just chill… speaking of chill, it’s dipped down into the 30s here in the Classic City and there were even a couple of snow flurries where S&O live.

We saw this,

which was fun, and later, back at home base, Steve presented T with a birthday gift – sometimes belated is the best kind, too! We all talked about how, when we were kids, we thought The Man From U.N.C.L.E. was just it.

Art Shenanigans found me working on Paper Ladies… here is one now.

When 100% finished, this real pop princess will go in or on a card with some bright colours. Or maybe even on the tree which goes up tomorrow. I’m earlier than usual with decorations this year. (As Johnny Mathis sings, “We Need A Little Christmas Right This Very Minute.” Yes we do.)

Ready for her closeup...

I’m in the mood to have some holiday fun as I finish cards and such, all rarin' to wing their respective ways to their respective peeps. And while it’s hard to get up and going when what you really want to do is relaaaaaxxxx -- up and going, here I come! I’m sure I’ll see many of you there, too.

Take care.
Candace in Athens.

Curveball

2009-11-21T23:51:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

What?! No road trip?

No, nothing more than a friendly reminder that whatever curveball you are thrown, to just do your best. After all, Life is what happens when you are busy making plans.

An announcement that I will be back next weekend after the Holiday on Thursday. My dad's condition nosedived this Friday just past and right now, I have a full plate. I will share this little doodly philosophy with you --

Demeter.

She has definitely left the building in the Classic City, the last Indian Summer days come and gone, a brace in the air as we leave early mornings or come in after the sun goes down. That or the wet gray November that is a big part of a typical Georgia winter.

Soon Mother Nature herself will be in sleep mode here as we settle down and give a big sigh -- or in some cases, hold our breath. Some folks like to think Persephone's annual leavetaking of her mother is the reason we have autumn and winter. Don't fall for that New Age stuff.

It's about Demeter. Always has been. Always will be.

Have a great holiday, here in the States and elsewhere -- a good good week.

Candace

Happy Birthday, T!

2009-11-14T22:57:00.000-05:00

Well, obviously, the colours of this particular day were parti-coloured.

Hello Everyone!

There's nothing like deciding at the very last minute to go on another road trip! Today was the Athens Farmers Market last call for 2009 and somehow we went from there to Easley, South Carolina AGAIN. See those two bums on the corner?

I was so tempted to call Autumn, believe me, but thought I would spare her a contemporary version of The Ransom of Red Chief!

All I can say is, that Xyron is my new best friend. So yes indeed, as it was T's Birthday -- 14 November, Xyron earned his keep. Here's a peak at the partially finished altered card done for the occasion with the help of said Xyron. Inside is the happy b'day stuff.... this is just a peek at the first alterings goin' on.

(I think Ian McShane is fo' shizzle and his turn as Disraeli was excellent. As both of us are enamoured of the Steam Punk movement, this was a shout out to a couple of things. And be advised, this photo was taken of the card in progress.)

The Solstice Sisters performed at the last of this season's Farmers Market. T bought two of their CDs. They are wonderful songbirds and quite renowned. If you click on their name, you can hear some of their music. Look close, you'll see our typical love offerings for our musicians.

More treasures.

Boy, did I really want this one!

This glass art plus glass jewelry is made by Susan Staley, the blonde member of The Solstice Sisters. So much creativity, it makes my brain freeze.

Once we hit SC, we kidnapped Leon who was only too happy to go along for the birthday ride. For some reason, teacups and their accompanying saucers were the order of the day for T ---

who would NOT admit that this footed set had more than a touch of pink. "It's lavender, Candy." "T, you my dog, but sorry, it's pink." We have now decided it's mauve.... another type PINK.

The set below is my personal b'day present, honouring T's Greek heritage. This authentic Greek set, made in the ORIGINAL Classic City, was nestled on a little shelf at a great place called "Uncle Sam's Antiques and Collectibles" in Easley. The saucer has the Pantheon while the cup sports scenes from Perseus and Medusa's meeting, the Sirens and Odysseus.

Look at this gorgeous cameo, followed by the Victorian dress and hat it enhanced. (sorry it's a bit fuzzed out here.)

"Mmm, not my size."

And now, the goat T just had to have! We all fell over laughing. Goats are big with us, featured in the Tatterhood fairytales we are so fond of.

We ate -- at JOE's! Okay, okay, Leon didn't. He just sat there and told hilarious stories while we stuffed our faces. Joe's has been in biz for 37 years and has served millions of hot dogs, burgers, and tons of ice cream. I don't know why Guy Fieri has not scooped them up for one of his special episodes on FoodTV.

If this place had been open, we would have gone there. Bleu Voodoo Grill. Can't wait.

Remember my aversion to rushing the season? What the...???? But it's a lovely window display.

So then, since it was dark and the shops were closed, we took Leon home and after a cup of his fine, fine, superfine coffee, we headed out and down the road where we found out that Athens was still here, waiting for us, waiting for the end of the road for T's birthday.

Okay, Kids! Tune in next weekend for some ART SHENANIGANS -- an altered doohickey. And a new Paper Lady Brigade whatchamacallit. And a Jewelry thingamabob. And more WHATNOTS!

Get More of What and Who You Love.

Candace

But I Just Got Here

2009-11-12T22:38:00.001-05:00

That's what I told Autumn when our time together came to an end.

Hello Everyone!

First, are these guys a hoot or what? They can be found along with other fun and artsy things at Spruill Gallery in Atlanta through December.

I know, I know, it's not even Thanksgiving here in the good old US of A and already retailers are pushing the Big Kahuna down our throats. I hate to tell you this but I saw Valentines in the back of one store the other day. And Christmas HiJinks were already in the stores before Halloween this time around... sigh.

Yet another reason to buy handmade and join in with Buy Nothing Day this year on November 27th (US) and November 28th (RoW).

Okay, okay, on to the fun stuff. First, Mother Nature put on a big production for the trip there and back.

I was so excited about meeting and visiting yet another blogster art friend. Last year around this same time, I was hopped up about going to London to see a friend for Thanksgiving PLUS meeting Sarah Wallis of Circles of Rain.

Although Thomas Wolfe said "You Can't Go Home Again," I think we can but it sure can be and often is very different. Be open and accepting and try not to laugh and cry at the same time. I mean, it was a very contained world. There was work. Church. School.

And this place....

What was it? I never could get a straight answer from my folks. And my Uncle James, who was a member, never talked about it. Ever.

Say, I don't remember any free-range rhinocerous in anyone's front yard when I lived here. Just sayin'...

A series of shots follow. Autumn was kind enough to say yes when I asked if I could take and share some photos of her studio and a couple of art pieces, altered books and whatnots (What does that word mean? Who thought it up?). She has met Michael de Meng! I nearly fell over.

Just SOME of her stamps.

None of these photos do justice to the vibrancy and colour of Autumn's work.

This Altered Sewing Kit was great! All sorts of treasures inside.

I had a great time with this little darling and will try something similar. Autumn showed me the how-to's.

We had a good time, and found that we have a lot in common as well as differences. Autumn gave such great tips on a couple of things I've been struggling with and when she showed me her Xyron... well, you know how THAT ended (see previous post).

We are going to stay in touch and get together when we can. Like me, she has an art friend. But unlike me, she has more than one. There is a thriving art community up there now. Which thrills me to no end.

I think this is ART SHENANIGANS as a baby! Tee tiny thing, just perfectly done.

And, if you ever go there or even near there, trust me. Eat at Joe's.

Take care, everyone, and get more of what you love.

Candace

A New Toy!

2009-11-09T23:19:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
A short note tonight.

Using my handy dandy 50% off coupon, I managed to snag one of these at Michaels. It's a Xyron, the smallest they have at the 2.5 mark but very sufficient for what is needed/wanted.

Autumn (on the right below) has one and of course, I'd read about and seen them, but she showed me how easy peasy it is when I recently visited her.

Speaking of Autumn, her site is just great and she is a great fun and crafty artist. Her studio was like being on another world to me. (And she makes a great cup of coffee!) More later on the fun we had! Two "Palmetto" girls -- you just can't beat that.

So, back home with the new toy, thinking I would start out a bit higgledy piggledy, I realized I'm a pretty quick learner. Come back this weekend for a tour of my visit with My Peeps and a fun birthday party! Yep, T didn't get enough of having a birthday last year so it's happening again this year!

Get More of What You Love.

Candace

Changes

2009-11-06T00:08:00.000-05:00

Quick, which is really yellow? The butter or the corn?

Hello everyone!

Weather changes. Seasons. People. Fashions. What doesn't change, really, except our moral core? And I read things that make me wonder if even that is up for grabs once in a while!

There's a saying that "The only constant is change."

Churchill said that there is "nothing wrong with change if it's in the right direction."

Just doodling around, I find I am going in new directions, wanting to experiment, explore. Show some of the things I usually just keep to myself...

But you know the song, I'm sure. One day, just like every day, everything is the same.

And suddenly you turn a corner and there it is.

Blooming all over the place, threatening to overtake everything around you, even you ... then you realize, it's not a threat.

It's a promise.

Metamorphosis.

Take care!

Candace

Colours of the Day

2009-11-02T22:07:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Just because I am hard at work for the Man does not mean we can't have a little break now and then. Come with me now and witness the Hollow's bright Monday colours of the day before the rest of the week overtakes us.

Molly Brown's crate had an upgrade over the weekend. She is taken around back at dawn, fed and watered and loved on a little before I head back upstairs for a half hour snooze, if work permits. Upstairs, this is what is greets me every autumn morning when the sun is cooperative and the day really starts up.

Real.

Not real. But it looks great on my piano!

VERY real! Stepping outside this time of year is like entering a fairy kingdom. There is just no way I can capture the vibrant golden hue of the trees, so many the air itself hums with the colours.

This beautiful patch of ground cover covers up one of my brick steps. Nature will out!

Several hours later (read 12), work over and done with for the day, I am ready to have a go with another Paper Lady, this time with these fun metallic coloured pencils. You'll see what happened with those this weekend.

Molly's cage, before she goes in for the night.

Speaking of which, we are back where we started. Sweet dreams, Kids!

Take care.

Candace

Love Potion No. 9

2009-11-01T00:44:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone! Love is in the air --

Love, that most elusive but most ubiquitous of magical potions, picks its own time to rear its head and bring us back into the real cycle of life.

Surrounded all day by little witches and sparkling lights and beautiful bouquets --

autumn love, Halloween love, the love of man and woman, the love of good friends and family, of animals, of costumery and frippery, of beauty and good parties food, and happily ever after.

And where should this story begin but in the Haunted Hollow and on Halloween Itself? When the veil is thinnest, especially a royal blue wedding veil seen here on Kitten (with friend and photographer T), as she prepares to become one of the most powerful of beings ... half of a happily married couple.

As I posted once before only this time it's for real, The Happy Couple here.

April and Sean, enjoying the cake, freshly cut by Kitten and Don.

I think you know these two clowns.

And this cleverly disguised flying monkey!

and where should this Story end but the very same place and day with the very same thing it started out with?

Margaret Hamilton would be proud.

For anyone who faces a lifechanging decision -- Kid, you better believe it. You can fly!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3g4ekwTd6Ig

Get More of What and Who You Love.

Candace

Another Saturday Night --

2009-10-31T01:24:00.001-04:00

AND I AIN'T GOT NOBODY!

Hello Everyone!

Do you remember that song? It takes on a whole new meaning when you look at it around October 31st, oddly enough on a Saturday this year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i98_Lqcryp8

Here are those lyrics. And seriously, I might have to come up with something for this poor guy ...

he sounds really sad about his "condition".

Another Saturday Night and I ain't got nobody,

I have some money ‘cause I just got paid.

How I wish I had someone to talk to,

I'm in an awful way.

I blew in town a week ago,

I ain't seen a lotta girls since then.

If I could find ‘em I could get ‘em,

but as yet I haven't met ‘em,

That's why I'm in the shape I'm in

Chorus

Another fella told me,

he had a sister that looked so fine.

Instead of being my deliverance,

she had a strong resemblance

to a cat named Frankenstein

It's hard for a fella,

when he don't know his way around,

If I can't find me a honey

to help me spend my money,

I'm gonna have to blow this town.

Say, join Me Saturday Night at the Witching Hour for The Last Hurrah -- Halloween 2009.

Take Care

Candace

That Old Black Magic

2009-10-28T23:52:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Yep, I'm still attempting to post every night this Halloween week. I'm not sure why I'm doing this. I don't have anything to prove to anyone, least of all myself. But this time of year is just so so special to me for many reasons... nostalgia one of them, of course. So to the brooms, kids and away we'll go, flying monkeys and all!!!

This little work is called "You guys are such cut-ups."

Things happen in Blogovia that we just don't expect, sometimes. It tickles and thrills. One of the new peeps I have met and made through A Fanciful Twist 's lovely Halloween Celebration is Autumn of Autumn's Antics. Go there now for some fun fun stuff.

But here's the kicker. Where Autumn lives...? It's my old hometown. Where. I. Grew. Up. Where I went to church (can you believe that?) and nearby school (to be educated but also socialized. That didn't work, either). Near where my dad and (now) my brother and my sister live as well.

And I was sent some fun stuff you see below, straight from Autumn's blog contests which are still going on, if I understood her recent posts -- ready, willing and able to be altered.

LOVE the stamp!

All I know is the mailman got a big kick out of being able to tell me, "Somebody sent you a house!" before handing me the package.

She sure did. Thanks, Autumn. Now the mystery begins...

What will I make out of this? A gypsy's cupboard, full of surprises or simply cubby holes for this 'n' that? Will it be happy as a humble house or shall it be a shrine or maybe a mausoleum? A museum? A library? School for the Arts? A travel agency? Mmm....

Take care.

Candace

The Happy Couple

2009-10-27T23:50:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone!

I don't think this little sketch needs any explanation.

Do you? EDIT: I had an earlier rougher sketch and have now replaced it with this latest.

Work is really underway now. 12 hour days already. Weekend work a sure thing.

Between that, Halloween Shenanigans and my dad's breaking his hip yesterday -- whew. His surgery was all but immediate and he's doing as well as he can be, considering his age (93 next week) and frailties that come with that particular territory. I am grateful it wasn't worse and am grateful my brother and sister are close by.

Candace

Five -- and Counting

2009-10-26T23:28:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Five days and counting till we slide right into Halloween. It's been a great season of the witch this year. Folks are ready for cool weather, fabulous colours and a little change is what I see here in the Classic City.

I liked creating this little quickie witch -- especially her frock with its little apron! -- and have titled this -- what else?

It's The Not So Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

You may see this dress again -- and I am even thinking of taking it a step further and putting it on a doll other than one of my Paper Ladies. We'll see.

Unless something untoward happens, I hope to post every night this week with a little witchery ditchery do and more Art Shenanigans!

Take care!
Candace in Athens

Harvest Moon

2009-10-25T22:01:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!
Say, first things first. So sorry for my boo boo, Anairam! Her link -- Fra(a)iing -- somehow got crosshatched with Charlie's of Art Happens. So if you missed her Mad Hatter tea party, and forgot she's on the My Peeps link -- here she is!

And here this gal is. This is how I envision the Harvest Moon. Enjoy this darling and the colours she brings to The Classic City this time of year.

We're on the home stretch to Halloween and even the trees are celebrating the holiday.

There's beauty all around, even under our feet.

Another look at the ever-so Amy, sans Mad Hat, but seen here in her entire handmade outfit. She looked so Holmesian! I wish there were some way to really show her seamwork off. But this photo will have to do for now.

Join me Monday evening for another Paper Lady treat! Because very soon, these Ladies will be more than just paper.

Get More of What You Love.

Candace