An Easter Surprise!

I used to always say "I NEVER win anything!" Well, I can say that no longer! I won this wonderful Bunny hanger from Sheryl at Mother's Dream Artwork. Sheryl is an amazing artist who really knows her way around Paperclay. Her characters are full of personality and charm. Not only does she do a wonderful job with the sculpting, but her paint techniques are simply amazing!

Thank you Sheryl for this most wonderful Easter surprise!

Santas and Devils and Skellys...oh my!

It's hard to believe, but it's update time on Spookytime Jingles already! Each 13th of the month, new offerings are posted by some of the most amazing artists around! I've been lucky enough to be included in that group. Here are a few of my newest creations that will be available at 1/13/09, 12am (and yes, there are some wonderful fans of the site who actually start shopping at 12am!). 

Return of the Candy Container

I'm now obsessed with making "candy containers." I don't know why I love 'em so, but I do! Here is the latest one I just finished. This fellow can't see to keep his hands out of his own bowl (okay, does that sound as dirty as I think it does?). Made from a carved stryofoam base and hand sculpted in Paperclay, I've painted him in my usual style of acrylics and oil paint details. I've put him up on my Esty shop - he's looking for a good home!

A Special Gift From A Special Friend

I had a wonderful surprise waiting for me Saturday when I ventured out to the mail box. My friend Christopher Klingler (Designs by CK) sent me this original work of art! It was one of those COMPLETELY unexpected kind of surprises that just make you feel warm all over! Chris has beautifully depicted Divine in his (her?) unforgettable role as Babs Johnson in John Water's "Pink Flamingos." Chris knows I love John Waters (who actually hails from Chris's home state, MD). Chris has illustrated Babs in all her glory in colored pencil and ink in his unique and talented style. Chris is truly one of the most gifted illustrators that I know.

As far as "Pink Flamingos", it is without a doubt, my all time favorite Water's film. Now for those of you who haven't seen it, I can't recommend that you go run down to your local Blockbusters and rent it. As a film, it is filthy, offensive, shocking and in absolutely poor taste...I love it! But, it's most definitely not for everyone - certainly not for the faint of art!

Thank you Chris for your most generous gift! You are a talented artist and all around great guy!

Arts A Flutter - Now Open

My good friend Candace, of Howling Moon Designs, has opened her new folk art market place - Arts A Flutter. I'm happy to be a part of this eclectic group of artists. Updates will take place on the 1st of each month. above is a sneak peek at what I'm offering this month. Stop on in the site and browse through the artists - you'll be glad you did!

Candy Container Success!

In an earlier post, I discussed using a balloon filled with sand to serve as a form to wrap Paperclay around. I wasn't sure how it would all turn out...but I can happily report that the technique worked! Once the clay dried, I simply snipped the balloon with a pair of sissors and poured the sand out...viola!...instant candy container! Although this paticular container is a little small (about 3.5") it can still hold a small amount of wrapped candy. This fellow is offered for sale at my ETSY shop Now that I know the technique will work, I'm off to make some even bigger ones!

Chicken Lips - On it's way to PA

Chicken Lips hits the road! Dani of Amibitions Design is taking Spookytime Jingles to the National Halloween Convention in Pennsylvania! A dozen or so STJ artists are providing art to help Dani fill the booth. This photos represents what I'm contributing to the show. I wish I could make it out there, 'cause this show looks like it's gonna be so darn fun!