Sarah John Afana

A New Direction...or should I say “Obsession”?

2011-06-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Next week I start a focus on a career combining my love of art and my passion for cooking by embarking on the Culinary Arts Program at The French Culinary Institute in New York City. The professional training and education that will build me up for a jump start to food styling couldn’t begin in a more inspirational and exciting school and city.

Along with this new direction comes a fresh blog featuring my fine art photography who’s models are of the delectable variety, so come follow me as I explore and absorb all that the new city and kitchen bring on at TooManyIngredients.blogspot.com

Cocktails at L'Ecole

Cheers!

Springtime in the City

2011-04-20T16:02:00.001-07:00

I spent a fantastical week in New York City recently and one of most stunning of spots can be seen while strolling The High Line. Spring has just started to peek out from under the wintery foliage and the walk along the line is a welcome introduction to fresh new buds among the cityscapes.

...and what’s a trip to the city without some gourmet exploration? Just before my leisurely walk I made an event of lunching at Colicchio & Sons in the Tap Room.

With a menu to drool over my foodie friend and I sampled the crisp and tasty Frisée and Apple Salad, ventured forth with the Roasted Bone Marrow (a must try), couldn’t pass up on a truly wood fired pizza and indulged on the scrumptious Hanger Steak. All paired with what else? wonderfully flavorful flights from the tap.

Cozy Comforts

2011-03-29T13:06:00.001-07:00

I have been craving a rich, tasty, gooey, yummy mac & cheese...but not the simple, beloved by kids all over, kind from a box. A true, baked with crumbs on top decadent macaroni and cheese casserole. I partially blame the March issue of Bon Appétit magazine that has the most tantilizing dish on the cover...it's been taunting me from my coffee table for weeks.
So I finally gave in and created a scrumptious recipe I found while browsing Epicurious...

...other cozy comforts come in the form of handmade, keep you warm and toasty knitted scarves from schemata. All inspired by tasty treats and handmade by me for a unique addition to your already stylish wardrobe. If you are in the area, stop by The Art Works in Paso Robles to try on any of the scarves from the collection and feel for yourself their soft coziness.

It Can't Rain All the Time...

2011-03-25T12:06:00.001-07:00

My current corner of California has been relentlessly washed with rain over the last week, with little end in sight...actually I've read there will be an even more soggy storm a' coming.

While I watch the drops fall and my muddy, country driveway become less, and less passable I searched out some rain inspired creations on Etsy...take a look at this gallery that celebrates the drama and beauty of the Spring Shower...It Can't Rain All The Time.

Waiting in the Rain-Original Acrylic and Metallic ink on stretched canvas

18 x 18 inches (45.72 x 45.72 cm)

Where I've Been...

2011-03-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

Please excuse my absence since the new year...I've done some traveling, spent some time in New York City and now have grand plans developing to move from the sunny Central Coast of California a little north to San Francisco.

In the mean time I've been packing in obsessive fashion to store my studio and finished artwork until I'm more settled and can continue to create.

I have started adding my original images to a store on zazzle to offer some products featuring my artwork allowing you to keep my paintings with you everywhere you go. Check out the fun iPhone & iPad cases, mouse pads and other adornments. I'll be adding more images regularly but if you have a favorite painting of mine you would like to see on an iPhone case or any other product offered please let me know.

In addition, look forward to the re-opening of both my Etsy shops, SarahJohnAfana and schemata with limited inventory in the interim.

Holiday Tidings

2010-12-14T20:29:00.001-08:00

I have been bustling around my house decking the halls and making holiday treats.

In year’s past I have been known to have up to four Christmas Trees up at a time but this year I have kept it to only two. The one room of our house where we gather to play billiards has been adorned with a festive, glamorous and shimmery spectacle perfect for a fun lounge atmosphere.

It’s a more modern spin on holiday décor with a fluffy, shiny silver garland along with some of my hand painted glass ornaments which to me seem like small abstract pieces of process art.

…and I can’t forget the treats! A recent favorite among my friends and family is fresh homemade marshmallow. I’ve taken it a step further with the addition of our home grown organic almonds and drizzled with dark chocolate; a creation I like to call Craggy Cul de Sac. It also wouldn’t be a homemade delectable from me without the personal packaging to take the gift over the top.

On the Horizon…

2010-12-10T11:15:00.001-08:00

Subterranean*-Original Acrylic and Collage Painting on canvas, 24 x 24 inches (60.96 x 60.96 cm)

Planning ahead with Jessica Torrant, my partner in Fine Art Friday, we hope to bring new artists and their work to the forefront of what can be seen and collected from independent artists.

Under the Silence by Jessica Torrant
Original Acrylic Painting on Gallery Wrap Canvas, 16 x 20 inches (40.64 x 50.8 cm)

We started off strong last month and have built a community of artists from around the web including gathering a new team on Etsy, Finding Fine Art. This group of artists creates work in a variety of media offering gallery quality original art.

You can meet the team artists on the Finding Fine Art team page or search Etsy for “findingfineart” to browse the gallery of work available.

*Subterranean is a glimpse of life beneath the surface.
It is an original acrylic collage painting on 3/4 inch deep stretched canvas. Many layers of paint have been included in this creation along with altered paper (recycled, marbleized magazine pages) and metallic silver ink details. It is 24 x 24 inches (60.96 x 60.96 cm) and has been finished with two coats of protective varnish. It is signed on the front; signed, dated and titled on the back.

Handmade Holiday Goodies!

2010-12-03T10:52:00.001-08:00

Come shopping at the Old Fashioned Holiday Bazaar and help support SLO High School Band!

The Happiest of Holidays

2010-12-01T09:19:00.001-08:00

Photo by Katie Coordt

Yeah, that’s me…I just love the Holidays. A quick shot snapped unbeknownst to me by cell phone and sent to me sometime last summer as “fodder for blog posts”, gotta love family.

For many families it’s the holiday season that inspires and creates fond memories for years to come. Gathering for meals and performances of The Nutcracker, sitting down to watch Frosty the Snowman or Christmas Vacation, no matter the event they are all surrounded by holiday flare. Sparkling, colorful lights along with the fresh scent from the wreath on the door add to the warmth of the scene. The carefully decorated Christmas tree being the focal point of any holiday celebration is where I gain my devotion to create my hand painted glass ornaments. If one of my ornaments can help recall that special Christmas memory for years to come then I couldn’t be more honored.

My studio has been turned into a holiday workshop for my one of a kind, hand painted glass ornaments since early fall.

This week sets off the biggest selection of my ornaments available in schemata as well as a few new locations if you want to see them in person.

The Art Works…Paso Robles, California
Paso Robles Art Association Showroom…Paso Robles, California
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art~CraftArt Market…San Luis Obispo, California
The Gallery at the Network…San Luis Obispo, California
Marque…Laguna Beach, California
Moyaboya…Creemore, Ontario, Canada

And for one day only, Saturday, December 4^th…at the Old Fashioned Holiday Bazaar, a fundraiser for the San Luis Obispo High School Band.

CraftArt Market 2010

2010-11-26T11:38:00.001-08:00

Shopping for handmade holiday gifts? The annual CraftArt Market is happening now at the San Luis Opispo Museum of Art ~ a showcase of artisans who create high quality jewelry, handbags, scarves, folk art, mini photos, prints and paintings, sculpture, home decor, ceramics, art glass and other handmade fine craft items on sale at the Museum of Art from the day after Thanksgiving until New Year's Eve.

Available in the show are my hand painted glass ornaments and collection of one of a kind beaded jewelry.

CraftArt Market open daily 11-5, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve until 3.

Small Treasures

2010-11-11T18:31:00.001-08:00

Earlier this week I was a member of the volunteer group to hang this year's Small Treasures show for the Paso Robles Art Association. This spectacular fund raiser features a gallery full of 8 x 8 inch (20.32 x 20.32 cm) original artworks along with several small 3-D creations (only rule is that it fit in the gallery gift bag)~each piece of art...only $100. This year's show started off with 165 pieces that will continue to be added to as artwork sells. It's a fabulous variety of styles and subjects worth taking a look at. The show runs from now until December 12th in the Showroom.

My contribution to Small Treasures~

She's Not Interested-original acrylic on canvas, 8 x8 inches (20.32 x 20.32 cm)

Hand Painted Glass Ornaments~Set of 5

Finding Fine Art

2010-11-05T08:36:00.001-07:00

You never know when or where you will stumble across that artist whose work you just click with.

The Process-Original Acrylic Painting by Jessica Torrant

This week I joined artist Jessica Torrant, in her effort to promote Fine Art Friday, a movement celebrating and sharing independent artists online. In just a few short days we have taken what was the simple thought of sharing some of our favorite art on twitter, and hoping others would tweet along with us, into a grand plan including a dedicated blog, tumblr, Flickr Group Pool, Etsy Treasuries as well as its own twitter profile.

We encourage artists of all media to join in sharing in whichever form they choose and we REALLY encourage art collectors to have a look at what’s being shared.

To kick off this Fine Art Friday I am sharing a few abstract paintings I found while browsing Etsy (and one of my own…).

1. Spanish Symphony 2 by Brian Elston 2. Sinking by Michelle Daisley Moffitt 3. Storm Lancaster Avenue by Victoria Webb 4. To Protect by Linda J. Monfort 5.Cycles of Secrets by Tammy Ricker 6. From Below by Sarah John Afana

Trick or Treating shouldn't be just for little ones...

2010-10-28T15:37:00.001-07:00

Never Grow Up~iPhone Photograph from #Mailart Series Being Human in Time

Apparition ~ iPhone Photograph

After the little ones have gone to bed and left their coveted stash unattended is the perfect time to raid the booty of all of YOUR favorite sweets along with some extras to add to this delectable cookie...Blowout! This particular cookie has become a yearly splurge ever since my mother gave me a copy of Lee Bailey's Country Desserts. It is what every peanut butter cookie strives to be with the addition of dark chocolate chips, honey roasted peanuts and chopped miniature peanut butter cups (pilfered from the Trick or Treat bucket). And like all the creatures you see on Halloween, don't be surprised if all these cookies disappear overnight.

Start Your Christmas Dreaming

2010-10-22T10:09:00.001-07:00

I have been busy, busy preparing for a hopping holiday season in schemata. With a few hundred hand painted ornaments now ready for upcoming shows, galleries and online browsing I am happy to share some handpicked sets. I personally went through all my finished ornaments and mixed and matched a few coordinated collections to make your holiday trees the envy of all your friends. These sets include four or five various shapes and sizes to give you a well rounded showing of my creations. They come thoughtfully packaged in an attractive clear paint can for storage or impressive presentation for gift giving.

Look for more sets to be available next month at the Paso Robles Art Association’s show Small Treasures and keep updated with all my craftiness with SchemataCraft on Twitter.

Speed

2010-10-14T11:39:00.001-07:00

Speed the latest exhibit in the Showroom gallery for the Paso Robles Art Association is a juried show featuring artworks reflecting the pace of life (fast or slow). This may include: the speed of objects, a long boring lecture, clocks, calendars, snails, cheetahs, lazy afternoons, race cars, food left on the stove, etc. Exhibit runs October 7 to November 7.

My original acrylic painting Sudden Rain from my Umbrella Series has been chosen for display. She is a paused moment of a little black dress laden girl caught in a shimmering sprinkle.

Sudden Rain~original acrylic painting with metallic silver ink details on stretched canvas,
18x18 inches (45.72 x 45.72 cm) framed in black wood

Waiting on the Waves

2010-09-28T13:11:00.001-07:00

My local strip of California beach is notorious for small summer surf and I couldn't be more excited for the fall waves to be rolling in. With sizes of 5-6 ft waves making a morning search for the perfect wave a welcome retreat.

Waiting on the Waves is an original oil pastel drawing on archival watercolor paper;
8 x 12 inches (20.32 x 30.48 cm).
Original drawing available in my Etsy shop; prints available on Imagekind.

The Sketchbook Project

2010-09-17T11:28:00.001-07:00

Art House Co-op has become an intriguing place to find creative inspiration and an exciting variety of artists work to browse. I’m joining in the fun with their latest BIG event The Sketchbook Project~Tour 2011.

It’s pretty simple…sign up, pick a theme, when your sketchbook arrives~FILL IT UP and send it back. All the sketchbooks collected will go on tour across the United States in 2011 for anyone to see and when the tour is over they will be on permanent view at the Brooklyn Art Library.

Probably not surprising to some who know me but my theme of choice for my sketchbook is “Make Mine a Double” so come back again when I have some drawings to share from the pages of my book (and I’m sure a few recipes for tasty concoctions).

Bloody Mary’s at Legends of San Francisco at SFO
(What do you do while waiting for your flight to Vegas?)

I Madonnari Festival 2010

2010-09-12T11:25:00.001-07:00

Tools for this weekend’s warriors.

It's a perfectly breezy weekend in San Luis Obispo and the artists have gathered for street painting in the Mission Plaza downtown. The I Madonnari Festival allows artists of every age to enjoy a space and express in bold vibrant color.

I strolled along the plaza yesterday in the late afternoon and found many images well on their way of completion even though the festival still continues today.

Some of the highlights from the children’s paintings…

I Madonnari Festival downtown San Luis Obispo, September 11-12, 2010.
More images on Flickr.

Do You See What I See?

2010-09-08T10:28:00.001-07:00

The Showroom for the Paso Robles Art Association is currently a showcase for abstract and non-objective artwork titled "Do You See What I See?" Part of the fun of this show is featured in the wall tags that are hidden from the viewer allowing them to interpret the work how they want to without being swayed by the title.

Included in the exhibit is my original acrylic collage Fortune; a piece that incorporates altered, recycled magazine pages in a kaleidoscope pattern.

Fortune is a work on paper, 10 x 11 inches (25.4 x 27.94 cm). It is matted and framed in a perfectly coordinated gold and teal with UV protective plexi-glass.

Summer Blues

2010-08-24T14:48:00.001-07:00

So. It's 106 degrees here today and I am focused on cold-weather accessories and holiday decorations...what's wrong with this thought process. I'm an organizer, a devote planner and lover of the perfect presentation~none of which happen at the last minute.

Hence the look ahead at what in a few short weeks will be on everyone's mind~fashionable, unique fall accessories...

I present to you my latest hand knit scarf Blueberry Puree created with a variety of yarns and fibers against a 100% pure Merino Wool body.

Speaking of "blueberries", need a tasty accompaniment to your morning coffee? Nothing beats the softness and pure summer flavor of fresh blueberry scones...

Okay, back to work now...I have been loading schemata with a rainbow of new hand painted glass cube ornaments...you know, there are only 122 days until Christmas?

Diving Deep

2010-08-20T10:00:00.001-07:00

Diving Deep into another world; a world filled with colors and patterns that provoke and intrigue.

Many layers of paint have been included in this creation along with altered paper (recycled, marbleized pages of National Geographic), and black ink details. The composition for Diving Deep was inspired by one of pages of National Geographic after the marbling process.

Altered magazine page that inspired Diving Deep

A closer look…

Today’s Lesson…

2010-08-11T10:40:00.001-07:00

As summer is winding to an end and the kids are heading back to school I think it's important to keep the creativity and exploration alive, especially with many school budgets having to cut arts programs in schools. A couple of summers ago I had an amazing experience teaching art to kids through the Summer Art Camp at SLOMA. This is a project I develop for the classes and hope it inspires you to take the time to encourage and educate with your children.

First, do a little research. Learn what you can about Cubism and some of the artists that developed it such as George Braque, Pablo Picasso or Juan Gris; share some of their paintings with your kids.

What you will need:
Colored Paper
Pencil
Straight Edge
Color Pastels, Chalks or crayons
Still Life Subject...I used a Guitar Hero Guitar
I chose a Guitar Hero Guitar for a couple of reasons; the kids recognized it and were excited to use it, it has a simple shape with little to no details so the drawing would be simple as well and they wouldn't get bogged down it the specifics and it was a nod to the many cubist artists that included stringed instruments in their images.

Part of the project also included an exercise with the color wheel and recognizing analogous colors-whatever color of paper the students were working on determined the entire palette for the drawing. For example; if drawing on blue paper the drawing included greens, blues, purples with the addition of white, black and gray. (A few of the students added a pop of an opposite color.)

Start by drawing the basic outline of the object with a few details-keep it simple.
Next, using the straight edge, draw lines across the paper at random angles and intervals.
Now using the pre-determined colors start filling in the shapes created by the drawn lines. Try not to use the same color next to itself and feel free to only shade the shapes starting in a corner rather than coloring in completely.

If necessary, as the page gets filled with color think about shading around the subject to help it pop out.

Here are some of the finished drawings from the 7-9 year old class...

Art After Dark

2010-08-06T11:04:00.001-07:00

Gallery hopping is an exciting way to see new work, get inspired by what other artists are experimenting with and keep up with gallery trends. Like many communities, San Luis Obispo showcases new shows on the first Friday of each month with Art After Dark. The perfect time to see a variety of work, meet the artists and do a little elbow rubbing.

Tonight is highlighted by the opening of No Full Disclosure the first solo museum show for Robert Burridge at SLO Museum of Art. Burridge has become wildly popular through his many workshops he teaches all across the country, a high energy personality who has found a voice through his energetic abstract paintings.

Also featured tonight at Growing Grounds Downtown Store are the beautifully haunting ceramics of Patrick Terjak where I am hoping to see his latest anagama pottery.

Anagama Pottery from Patrick Terjak

Tonight's gallery hopping wouldn't be complete without popping into Linnaea's Cafe for a glimpse of unique metal sculptures from Sam Bonifas.

Metal Sculpture from Sam Bonifas

Don’t feel like going out? Want to start the artwalk early and often? Join artist Jessica Torrant and others on twitter by searching #FineArtFriday every Friday for unique art featured online.

Everything But-Original Acrylic 52 x 89 inches (132.08 x 226.06 cm) from Jessica Torrant

As Far As the Eye Can See

2010-08-04T10:05:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wanted one of my original paintings but it wasn't the right size for where you wanted to hang it? Perhaps the painting you had your eye on sold before you could snag it. Or maybe original art is something your budget just won't allow. I have found a solution for you with many flexible options...Imagekind.

As Far As The Eye Can See-Acrylic on Paper, 10x11 inches (25.4x27.94 cm) Original Sold.

Imagekind is where you can find images of my original artwork available as prints. I have included a variety of my Abstracts, Figures, Wildlife, Landscapes and the ever popular Surfer Series many of which the originals have previously sold. At Imagekind you have a choice of sizes, paper or canvas as well as framing and matting options to suit your style.

I’m adding a few new images every week.
Still don't see the painting you really wanted? Let me know and I’ll add it to my gallery.

Imagekind is offering FREE SHIPPING this weekend~
Expires August 8th, 2010 Midnight PDT: Use Promo Code FreeShip0810

Revolution

2010-07-28T15:38:00.001-07:00

I have been morphing some techniques I learned from drafting kaleidoscope quilt blocks into new collage paintings. Revolution is my first completed collage incorporating the pattern.

Spinning stars whirling and whooshing creating confusion in the air.

Revolution is an original acrylic collage painting on heavyweight rag board. Many layers of paint have been included in this creation along with altered paper (recycled, marbleized magazine pages) as well as metallic silver ink details. It is 11 x 14 inches (27.94 x 35.56 cm) and has been finished with two coats of protective varnish. It is signed on the front; signed, dated and titled on the back.

Come to the Fair

2010-07-23T11:25:00.001-07:00

It's the peak of summer here in Paso Robles and the California Mid-State Fair, known as "the biggest little fair anywhere" kicked off this week. The community really rallies around all that the fair has to offer supporting all the exhibits in whatever way they can. It has all the classics...carnival, tasty treats, animals, big-name entertainment and the largest art show I have ever seen at a county fair.

mmmm….funnel cake…

A special preview party is held the night before the fair opens inviting the artist who entered a chance to get a sneak peek at the show and award winners. Included in the show are hundreds of photos that are entered in the various categories from children, amateurs and professionals within the county.

I am excited to announce I was among this year's award winners in the professional categories receiving a 2nd Place award in the "Fair Theme (Endless Summer Fun) division with On a Day Like Today and a 3rd Place award in the "landscape" division with The Promise.

On a Day Like Today-photograph

The Promise-photograph

More snapshot from the fair…

Can’t make it to California right now? Here are some fun finds inspired by all things carnival…

1. Suzanne Aunan Gallery 2. Jennifer Dickerson Photography 3. BeckyM
4. Sew Many Quilt Books 5. My Selvaged Life 6. Kc Soaps N More
7. Mimi Kirchner 8. Wandering Whimsies 9. Bovine Bubbles
10. The Fancy Lamb 11. Dawn Correspondence

Tweak your Traditions

2010-07-16T12:31:00.001-07:00

I am a self admitted holiday fanatic and celebrating Christmas in July would be perfectly fun for me. I could go with a more tropical approach to the usual holiday traditions. Find a sturdy palm tree to decorate with bright colored twinkle lights and all the fun surfing Santa’s and pink flamingo ornaments I have collected. Host an evening summer feast on the porch with fresh fruit salads and tantalizing pineapple infused cocktails. Instead of carols by the piano, we’ll have Mr. with his acoustic guitar at sunset. A surfer girl can dream…

My early Christmas dreaming is the result of preparing for the busy holiday season by creating new hand painted glass ornaments. I am looking ahead with many new glass cubes to add to schemata. Since each ornament takes about a week to complete with all the layers and drying time between I tend to work in multiples. Below is a glimpse at the steps an ornament goes through until completion.

My Christmas in July gift to you…free shipping in the U.S. and $5.00 shipping everywhere else with the purchase of 2 or more items available in schemata.

Only 161 days until Christmas…

Subterranean

2010-07-08T16:54:00.001-07:00

Subterranean is a glimpse of life beneath the surface. A cut away view of layers above and below an imaginary ground.

This is an original acrylic collage painting on 3/4 inch deep stretched canvas. Many layers of paint have been included in this creation along with altered paper (recycled, marbleized pages from National Geographic Magazine) and metallic silver ink details. It is 24 x 24 inches (60.96 x 60.96 cm) and has been finished with two coats of protective varnish. It is signed on the front; signed, dated and titled on the back.

Surf and Sand

2010-06-30T16:45:00.001-07:00

While we enjoy heading to the beach year-round, many make it a special event with summer fun and 4th of July celebrations. A favorite spot to catch views of two fireworks displays is sitting seaside on Studio Beach just on the south end of Cayucos, California. From that beach you can watch the colors fly above the Cayucos Pier to the north and over Morro Rock to the south. Get there early, claim your domain and don't forget all the necessities.

Beach Life-iPhone Photo from #MailArt Series

The Ocean is Calling-Watercolor on Paper, 7 x 9.5 inches (17.78 x 24.13 cm)
Original painting is sold-prints available at ALTAMIRA or on imagekind and ACEO on Etsy

Bee Up

2010-06-26T08:33:00.001-07:00

The Artisans Gallery Team was challenged by one of their own, Roxana Villa of Illuminated Perfume, to create honey bee inspired creations to celebrate her passion for beekeeping and draw attention to the dwindling bee population. Along with the variety of amazing handmade finds many of us are participating in a series of blog posts started on June 24th with the Artisans Gallery Team, Blog it Forward-Bee Up. Yesterday Jen over on Sewn Natural Studio shared some fascinating statistics as well as some of her bee inspired creations.

As a visual oriented person I am intrigued by the structure of the combs, the layers, the colors and the pattern that can be found in a honeycomb. My original acrylic abstract collage, Brood Comb, is a study in the patterns and shapes I see in the natural structure.

Brood Comb- acrylic paint and collage paper with metallic (gold) ink detailing
on 1 ½ inch deep, gallery wrapped canvas 16 x 20 inches (40.64 x 50.8 cm)

Here are just a few of the other honey bee inspired creations from my fellow Artisans Gallery Team~

1. Decorate the Diva 2. Illuminated Perfume 3. Piping Hot Papers 4. Jessica Torrant 5. Blue Bicicletta 6. Slinkymalinkicat 7. Star Bags 8. Jealousy Design 9. Knot Original 10. Ixela 11. Sea Pinks 12. The Joy of Color 13. Little Saplings 14. Sewn Natural

Check in tomorrow with Sharon of Knot Original as the Bee Up continues on Artisans Gallery Team Blog.

Take Your Camera EVERYWHERE

2010-06-24T10:17:00.001-07:00

When it comes to being a "techie" I will admit to knowing more than most of the people I'm around but considerably less than a lot of other people. I'm utterly devoted to my Nikon cameras and head over heels with my Olympus waterproof camera for taking into the waves with me, but the camera that goes EVERYWHERE with me is my iPhone 3G. I couldn't be more excited about today's release of Apples most recent makeover for the iPhone with its most talked about updates centering on the camera upgrades. Included in the new iPhone 4 are a front facing camera for self-portraits and video chat (FaceTime), a 5-megapixel camera with an LED flash and 5X zoom as well as HD video recording.

...anyway, I thought you might like a demonstration of one of the photo editing apps I currently use on my iPhone photos, FX Photo Studio. With a simple snapshot I can manipulate with filters and effects to achieve a more artistic image, even before the fancy camera upgrades available on the new model.

Original iPhone Photograph

…to see more of photographs taken with my iPhone check out my Flickr Set.

Painting Day

2010-06-21T16:38:00.001-07:00

Every now and then I host a painting day with some friends, inviting them to explore and experiment. Recently we got together and went back through some basics in creating light and shadow as well as some color and composition studies.

We started with some "warm-up" paintings which in theory are supposed to be quick and expressive exercises to get you loose and feeling free with the paint. For us though, we were focused on having something we would want to keep when we were done and our "warm-up" exercise lasted a little over an hour.

After a while we moved on to slightly larger paintings with more abstract expression and intense color palettes.

Here are some of my results…

Jaunt-acrylic on paper, 10x11 inches or 25.4x27.94 cm

Culture-acrylic paint and silver metallic ink on paper, 10x11 inches or 25.4x27.94 cm

Patina-acrylic paint and silver metallic ink on paper, 10x11 inches or 25.4x27.94 cm

The Rush

2010-06-18T09:47:00.001-07:00

I am expanding my Surfer Series of paintings to include some new larger original acrylic paintings. The Rush is an original acrylic painting on 1 1/2" deep gallery wrapped canvas, 12 x 36 inches (30.48 x 91.44 cm). Working larger is allowing me to create additional dynamics in my scenes.

Suspension Series

2010-06-15T17:54:00.001-07:00

Bubbles form and begin to rise as they float or flow within a fluid they travel along changing shapes while separating or merging. If you could stop that flow and capture a split second to see them suspended it would be an image like no other. From this image my "Suspension" paintings have emerged through the application of isopropyl alcohol throughout the process I can create a one or a kind pattern.

Nucleation is a culmination of layers to create the many bubbles for which are cornerstones in the series.

Nucleation-Acrylic Paint and Silver Metallic Ink
on 1 ½ inch deep, gallery wrapped canvas 16 x 20 inches (40.64 x 50.8 cm)

Artists’ Tools Aren't Just Brushes

2010-06-11T09:53:00.001-07:00

Artist Extraordinaire Ali Herrmann recently had some questions about how I came to be an artist and the ways I market my art. As I reflected on how I got I started I realized many of my opportunities to succeed have come from connections with friends and family. While I don't consider myself a "joiner", networking and maintaining a supportive entourage has created a basis for success I could not have accomplished alone. A BIG thank you going out to all who have helped...you know who you are.

Click over to Ali's blog to read the interview.

A Summer Tradition

2010-06-03T12:02:00.001-07:00

Camping in the Sierra's is a summer tradition for me and my Mr. We have a couple of secret* spots that allow us to get away from group campgrounds and really explore the serenity of escaping our busy schedules. Don't worry; I recognize the humor in running up to the mountains to get away from what are almost weekly surfing Sundays. But there truly is a calming quiet you find among the trees that can't be reached listening to the wind and waves of the West Coast beaches.

Being Human in Time-How This Generation Spends Their Time
iPhone Photographs from MailArt Series

One of our favorite areas is Chiquita Creek near Mammoth Pool Reservoir. There are many areas to explore without the crowds you may find in Yosemite National Park throughout the summer.

Chiquita Creek-photograph

Along the Path-panoramic photograph

The Water’s Edge I-Original Acrylic Painting on Paper, 7 x 15 inches (17.78 x 38.1 cm).

The Water’s Edge II-Original Acrylic Painting on Paper, 7 x 15 inches (17.78 x 38.1 cm).

How do you take your coffee?

2010-05-24T11:00:00.001-07:00

I am a fan of "a great cup of coffee" especially the perfect cappuccino. I will also admit to having developed a wonderful rapport with the ever overwhelmed yet still friendly baristas at the nearest Starbucks. Getting just the right balance of steamed milk to the tasty sweet foam makes all the difference in MY perfect cappuccino.

Being Human in This Time and How to be More Productive in This Time-
iPhone Photograph from #Mailart Series

Most days for me though are spent entirely at home, working in my studio-and since the nearest Starbucks is about five miles from my home, running out for a cappuccino is completely impractical. Over about the last ten years I have tried a handful of personal espresso makers, everything from budget friendly to the ones with all the bells and whistles. For whatever the flaw many of these machines simple didn't survive but one still remains and will continue to be my stand-by, tried and true caffeine supplier. The affordable and classic brand of Mr. Coffee has designed an industrial styled, straight forward maker that continues to outperform the others I have tried all for the low price of about $40. The most used small appliance in my kitchen.

While I wouldn't say I am "obsessed" with coffee, I do love my series of coffee cup drawings. Originally designed as a class project years ago this series continues to inspire my exploration of a subject from many styles and concepts.

...and what goes perfectly with a great cup of coffee?

Dried Cranberry, Walnut and Lemon Scones

Blood Oranges

2010-05-17T18:19:00.001-07:00

A favorite flavor of mine....blood orange. It has a subtle influence of red raspberry combined with the tastiest citrus tang. While the actual fruit is available for a limited season there are many ways to tickle your taste buds with this special offering from the grove.

Blood Oranges-Original Watercolor Painting 14x14 inches (35.56x35.56 cm)

1. Blood Orange Lip Balm by My Little Sunshine 2. Blood Orange Fine Art Photograph by Jennifer Dickerson Photography 3. Blood Orange Jam by Lemon Bird Handmade Jams 4. Blood Orange Loose Tea by The Ivy Keep

Blood Orange Margarita

What you'll need-
One blood orange-cut into wedges
Margarita Salt
A handful of fresh Red Raspberries-both for muddling and garnish
Tequila-amount and brand to your taste
Your Favorite Margarita Mix or Sweet & Sour Mix for a more tart flavor

Salt the rim of your favorite cocktail glass by running the cut wedge of Blood Orange around the lip and dipping in the bowl of Margarita Salt. Drop the orange wedge and about 4 raspberries into the glass, add the tequila. With a muddler, gently press down on the fruit squeezing out the oils from the rind and mixing with the tequila. Top the glass off with crushed ice and fill to the rim with mix. Garnish with a decorative pick of raspberries for snacking.
***Drink responsibly and always designate a sober driver.

Beautiful Blooms

2010-05-12T16:36:00.001-07:00

A recent visit to the de Young Museum of Fine Art led me to a surprise like no other.

For a few days out of the year an awe inspiring array of floral sculpture bloomed inside the de Young. Bouquets to Art took on the challenge of interpreting master works of art into floral bouquets. I'll admit my primary intention for the visit was to have a glimpse at the Diebenkorn's and de Kooning's but the display of blooming sculptures was a welcome surprise. It's was an inspiring trip to the museum located inside the Golden Gate Park downtown San Francisco.

Blooming Petunias-photograph

Iris Influence-acrylic and metallic ink on paper, 10 x 11 inches (25.4x27.94 cm).

Does your office need a fresh look?

2010-05-04T11:59:00.001-07:00

I am an artist member of the Business Exhibit program that is organized by the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art. Every four months I am given the opportunity to curate and exhibit a showing of my artwork in participating businesses throughout San Luis Obispo County. From May to September I will be showing at the Kinship Center- 71 North Main Street, Templeton.

This show is a focus on texture through my Construction Photo Series and a selection of my original abstract paintings. You can view all of the included images in my Flickr Set for the Business Exhibits.

Working-digital photograph

Construction Photo Series: A documentation and exploration of the distinctive and varied textures found in the many steps throughout the building of a home. The creation of a dwelling through numerous stages reveals the layers left behind from devoted craftsmen. A focus on the tools, equipment and materials required from a day's work provides a study of the long developed process.

Abstract #43-original acrylic paint with metallic ink on paper, 15 x 22 inches (38.1 x 55.88 cm)

Original Abstract Art: A constant fascination with textures and patterns developed through the use of line and repetition inspires original abstract process art. Often created by layering a mixture of media for varied textural effects and further emphasis of design through the use of drawing inks much of the end result is born organically through the media.

About 37

2010-04-25T13:42:00.001-07:00

Etsy will be featuring collections on the home page from their newly designed gallery forum "Treasury East" all day Tuesday, April 27th. When the announcement reached TeamT International the wonderfully creative Amanda from Dawn Correspondence and Doilies & Daises excitedly said "Yesss I'm going to make about 37 T-Easts this weekend!!"...I just couldn't let that go so I challenged Amanda and all of TeamT International to see who could curate "about 37" galleries by Midnight, Monday. These collections must have a theme or color or something, no willy-nilly thrown together lists of randomness and they must include at least 6 teammates.

While many of the team members have curated some gorgeous and inspiring galleries, the contest for the “about 37” is clearly between Amanda and me.

Updated May 16th, 2010-Many of the “about 37” galleries have sold out and been deleted. If you are interested in viewing my current Treasury East galleries click here; for Amanda’s current galleries click here.

My Galleries-
1 Logically Circular
2 Blue Jean Baby
3 White Hot
4 Let's Go!
5 Haaaaaavvvvve ya met....
6 Falling in Love with a Black Bunny in a Vineyard
7 Counting Cats
8 Poppy Fields Forever
9 Peace and Quiet
10 Take a hike...
11 Refreshingly Delicate
12 Don't Wake Me...
13 Birds and Roses
14 Fruit Salad
15 Beautiful Blooms
16 "A" is for...
17 I spy....
18 Thinking Inside the Box
19 Patina
20 For Moms that Rock!
21 I LOVE my iPhone
22 Flutterbies
23 What cha gonna make?"
24 Pretty in Pink
25 Pucker Up
26 On a Mission
27 Your Special Day
28 I WANNA ROCK
29 Ooo, La, La
30 Pomegranate Mojito
31 So Many Green Thumbs
32 Al would be Proud
33 Twitchy Little Noses
34 After the rain the show begins
35 Tasty Treats
36 Starry Night
37 With a Cherry on Top

Amanda’s Galleries-
1 In Nature
2 Land and Sea
3 Game ON!
4 At the Cotton Candy Stand
5 Love at First Sight
6 Would You Like Cream and Sugar with That?
7 Knock Knock!
8 At the Train Station
9 Lazy Day
10 Cornflower
11 I Do
12 S is for....
13 Little Pinkie Running through the Field with Llamas Standing By
14 Take Note
15 I Can Read You Like a Newspaper
16 Somewhere Over the Rainbow...
17 Lovely Bones
18 Entertaining in Style
19 Handle with Care
20 Whiskers, Bandit, and a Game of Hockey
21 Golden Glamour
22 Under the Sea
23 Bite Me
24 Let’s Fly Away
25 Walk on the Wild Side
26 Queen Bee
27 Toadstool Home
28 Butterfly Kisses
29 Peaches n Cream
30 Chasing Midnight
31 Camp TeamT
32 A Moment in Time
33 Lemonade Stand
34 Pin a Rose on Your Nose
35 ROY G BIV

More creative galleries from the team-
Natural blue by AnnyMay
Promises by CatherineReece
treasures by CatherineReece
Spring Greens by EdensWake
Dreamy by FiveForty
Pepper Jelly on Toast by FiveForty
the teamt blues by FiveForty
Abstract Frame of Mind! by GlassEtc.
Emerald meets Pink! by GlassEtc.
How about yellow and fuchsia? by GlassEtc.
I'm so into Color! by GlassEtc.
It could be blue and yellow!^_^ by Handamade
Let's Make it Mint Aqua Green by Handamade
Into the blue by Ixela
Will you please be mine? by Ixela
Mother Earth by JennyNDesign
Bright and Beautiful by JulieGarland
Metallic Tones by JulieGarland
Minty Blue by JulieGarland
A walk in the garden with Mom by nancywallisdesigns
Her Royal Highness by PipingHotPapers
blossoms and buds by SmallEarthVintage
Green Everywhere! by Trendyknitting
My favourite Etsians :) by Trendyknitting
Sunny Sunday... by Trendyknitting

Alter Your World

2010-04-21T16:12:00.001-07:00

Many of my abstract works incorporate collage techniques including layering altered papers. “Altered papers”? You may ask-what are those? For me, most often I am referring to repurposing pages from magazines that have been marbleized to create new designs from their printed inks that I then glaze onto the surface of my art-specifically, pages from National Geographic. The specific ink used for the amazing periodical are clay based which when mixed with a generous amount of the all-natural, all-purpose cleaner Citra Solv dissolve and swirl creating remarkable abstract patterns.

From Below-
original acrylic collage painting
on heavyweight rag board,
11 x 11 inches (27.94 x 27.94 cm).

Caught in the Net-
original acrylic collage painting
on heavyweight rag board,
11 x 11 inches (27.94 x 27.94 cm).

...it's in the Details

2010-04-15T12:18:00.001-07:00

Whether it's a well planned wardrobe following trends and the latest looks, or even the lack of caring about the current must-have... everyone cultivates their own personal style. So many decisions go into creating a specific persona sometimes consciously, sometimes not. When it comes to that personal style there is no detail too small. Simply adding a unique accessory is all it takes to show you have thought about your style and are confident in your day to come.

My Jewelry Collection available at
The Art Works in Paso Robles, California
or contact me for details.

Girl with Three Necklaces
original acrylic on canvas covered panel,
11 x 14" (27.94x35.56 cm).

Life's Better Surfing

2010-04-13T12:52:00.001-07:00

On a cool fall day I was hanging out on the beach with the teenage daughter of one of our surf buddies. In between texting her friends and listening to her iPod she started telling me about that morning on the way to the beach. They were in the drive-thru line at Starbucks when her father was starting to wonder if they should make the 30 mile drive to the beach and waste a day surfing when he had to start his week of graveyard shifts that night. She looked over at a lamppost and saw that some other slacker had already been there and left his words of wisdom with a sticker that read "Life's Better Surfing". She of course pointed it out and any reservations he may have had floated away in the wind, because as he has known since he was a teenager-even in the worst of waves you never regret a day in the surf.

Life's Better Surfing-MailArt, iPhone photo.

Call it a Day
Watercolor on Canvas, 7.5 x 8.5 inches (19.05 x 21.59 cm).

ACEO

2010-04-08T12:52:00.001-07:00

At the encouragement of a collector I began creating ACEO of some of my original artwork. If you are not familiar with ACEO or ATC (Artist Trading Cards), here is a quick FYI-

ACEO are Artist Created Editions and Originals: Miniature works of art about the size of a traditional baseball card,
2 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches (6.35 x 8.89 cm); to be collected and traded.

My ACEO are very limited edition prints featuring details from my original artwork. Each print is signed and numbered on the back in editions of only five. The print quality is stunning on a heavyweight (230gram) matte finish acid free photo paper.

These mini works make nice desktop artwork or perhaps a thoughtful gift for an art lover with eclectic tastes.
They can be displayed like any artwork or for a fun take-along check out the mini-journals with covers that allow you to display your favorite ACEO on the front from Piping Hot Papers.Last fall I started by offering 15 different images and am now adding 9 more to the collection.
If you are interested in a particular image of mine that is not yet available please contact me.

Life Imitates Art

2010-04-05T16:46:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite features in fashion and style magazines "Get the Look". You know the ones...where they show you a highly trendy fashionista in her latest must have ensemble and then they break down the pieces of the outfit and show you where you can get your very own uber-cool boots or super blousy top. Well I've been doing a little shopping inspired my MY very own stylish girls and can show you how you can get more of the art of fashion into your life.

This particular lady can never be too far from her every necessity which can easily be taken with her in her Large White Bag (original acrylic on canvas, 8x16 inches or 20.32x40.64 cm). I've taken a little artistic license and found some earrings that would look fabulous and finish her look.

From top to bottom: Avonlea Dress-Ellaina Boutique by Sue Bradbury, Baby Ruche Bag in PEARL Leather-Jenny N. Design, Golden Pod Dangle Earrings-Kathi Roussel

Watchful-Step by Step

2010-03-30T09:46:00.001-07:00

A glance at the making of Watchful…

Watchful-acrylic on paper, 20 x 20 inches (50.8 x 50.8 cm)

Hippity Hoppity

2010-03-28T17:02:00.001-07:00

Team T International is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt full of fun spring finds from various handmade and vintage shops found on Etsy. Hop on over to see all the collections.

For me, crucial to a successful Easter Egg Hunt are just a few key details~

Make sure the event can happen Before the Rain.

When out in search of the hidden treats and treasures, don't forget to look In the Tall Grass.
And, maybe most important of all, be thoughtful in the goodies that are to be found.

What's an Easter Egg Hunt without the traditional, brightly dyed, hand dipped eggs. One of my family's favorite tricks for creating beautifully swirled and speckled eggs is to add a couple of bits of butter to the coloring cups.

When you are about half way done coloring all the eggs, warm the cups of dye in the microwave just until it's slightly warm to the touch, enough to melt the butter. Then drop small bits of butter on the surface, allow the butter to melt without stirring. Now continue dipping the eggs into the colors, as the eggs go into the dye the butter swirls around and grabs onto the surface of the egg creating a resist against the dye. Unfortunately, after a few different eggs get dropped through the butter it breaks down on the surface and starts to lose its effectiveness, but by that time you should be finishing up.

Love Is In The Air

2010-03-26T12:09:00.001-07:00

This week Artisans Gallery has taken on the challenge of designing the perfect artisan wedding-from the gifts to the decor to all the little extras that make any wedding day a memorable one.

1 Signs by Diane, 2 The Joy of Color, 3 Marci G, 4 Sewn Natural, 5 Zoe Chen, 6 Sarah John Afana, 7 Piping Hot Papers, 8 JL Wood Turning, 9 Two Left Hands, 10 Illuminated Perfume, 11 One Clay Bead, 12 Kathi Roussel, 13 Schemata, 14 Noble Gnome, 15 Earmark Gatherings, 16 Ali Herrmann, 17 The Little Red Door

Still, any bride will tell you it’s
all about the dress (original acrylic painting on rag board, 11 x 14”).

My best wishes and congratulations go out to Christine and Lee for their upcoming wedding. Recently Christine commissioned a portrait of the couple to give to Lee as a wedding present. I was honored to be but a small part of their celebration.

Get Crafty

2010-03-24T13:03:00.000-07:00

My sister and graphic artist Justine Nielsen of Juicy Graphics has taken some of my original artwork and transformed them into new designs for all types of crafting. Along with vintage script and other layers she has created designs that are downloadable for crafters to print and use in all the ways they can think of from original jewelry to scrapbooking.

Artisan crafter Alice Johnson of Piping Hot Papers has recently used the designs to create unique cuff links for a memorable special occasion.

“Inchie” designs used to create pendants and earrings by Justine, I like to call them “Juicy Jewelry”.

Long Ago II-original acrylic on rag board, 6x8"

Colorize Your Spring

2010-03-22T16:16:00.000-07:00

For about four years I have been creating hand painted holiday ornaments for Christmas, always describing the process as being a lot like dying Easter eggs. The dyes seem to make their own patterns and much of the colors created are a bit out of my control. This year I was able to find clear glass eggs, something I hadn't found in the past, and from there my spring has become a lot more colorful. I have starting joking that "these eggs are what the Easter Bunny would make if he could use an airbrush".

What the Rains Can Bring

2010-03-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

If you follow me on Twitter you will recognize my “#surfinsunday” tags from my many surfing expeditions. While most of the time those tweets are accompanied by quick photos of the current beach we have invaded taken with my iPhone, I always have with me one or two other cameras for whatever my eye finds worthy of capturing. This time of year we are surrounded by the bright blooming wildflowers, and our 30 minute drive to the beach of choice is no exception. The rolling hills that separate us from the ocean are scattered with what the rains can bring. What the Rains Can Bring I, II, III-digital photos.

Inspired by Spring

2010-03-18T14:06:00.000-07:00

Inspirations for my landscape art come from all around me and my corner of California. Every year at this time the surrounding rolling hills explode with cotton candy covered trees and the grasses that were so well watered by the winter rains become the epitome of “grass green”. Overnight, those fluffy trees that decorated my drive home along the lake road lose their blossoms to become fields covered in confetti. Making sure not to miss the limited engagement of showing this year I was able to capture the almond orchard that rows the lower flat at a moment just before a sturdy Spring rain melted the cotton candy from the trees.
Valley Orchards-original acrylic painting on paper, 10.5 x 13.75”.

Top The Promise; bottom Well Traveled Path-photographs.

#MailArt

2009-12-29T18:30:00.000-08:00

This last fall I participated in an art project called "#mailart", developed through networking artists on Twitter. Organized by artist Mark Philip Venema (@Art_News on twitter) artists were to create postcard size art depicting the chosen theme "human in time" and send out the works to the other artist. As we received the small originals in the mail we were to post them to a Flickr group pool for viewing including any new textures created through the mailing process. The styles and mediums varied amongst the artists and so did their individual interpretation of the theme.
For my series I tweaked the theme to "being human in this time, how this generation spends time". I also decided to create all my work on my iPhone employing various photo and drawing Apps available. I see it as an extension of how this generation spends time. Throughout the series you can glimpse how I spend my days, while also seeing how I see the world around me spending time. All the pieces start with a photo I have snapped on my iPhone then I edit and add effects to enhance and emphasize the scene or message I am portraying.
Some of my days I am lucky enough to spend time at the beach. Whether surfing or sitting and photographing, there is something to the refreshing serenity of being by the ocean. While I snapped this photo in the middle of the day but edited it for sunset, it just doesn't matter what time it is-it's just always relaxing. The original print that I sent out was one that did not fare so well in its' travels. Prints available, please contact me for details.

Let's Get This Season Started

2009-11-19T09:36:00.000-08:00

Holiday Open House at The Source Salon & Boutique-It's a fun party to kick off your holiday season. Food and spirits will be served; door prizes will be won and unique handmade gifts to be shopped. The list is long of beautifully crafted creations including one of a kind jewelry, festive ornaments, fine hand knits, stylish aprons and much more. This year the Open House introduces two new members to the team-Michelle Ferrari and Sarah Conatser.
Stop by and join in the fun Friday, November 20th from 4-8pm.
The Source Salon & Boutique, 945 Spring Street, Paso Robles (805)226-8655. Can't make it to the party? You can still find my hand painted glass ornaments and handmade scarves in schemata.

Pre-Holidays Sale

2009-11-12T16:27:00.000-08:00

This weekend, November 13th-15th, shop with TEAMT on Etsy and save 10 to 50% on fabulous holiday gifts.
I will be offering 10% off all handmade scarves available in schemata. In addition I will have 10% off all my note cards, and all framed or unframed prints (including ACEO) and photos available at SarahJohnAfana.etsy.com.

Looking for additional gift items for the holidays, simply search Etsy.com for TEAMT under all items and start saving. Savings do not include shipping and will be refunded via PayPal after purchase. See individual shops for details.

10% Off Everything
ixela-Cowls, Shrugs, Wraps and Crochet Jewelry
CatherineReece-Pottery
JennyNDesign-Handbags
eightfold-Handbags and Accessories
mandag-Scarves, Cards and Home Decor
fiveforty-Jewelry and Rag Rugs
nancywallisdesigns-Jewelry
vintageaimee-Glass Works
PipingHotPapers-Paper Goods, Magnets and Other Goodies
GlassEtc-Plant Stakes and Other Creations
Carvelcountrysoaps-Soaps, Lotions, Lip Balms…

15% Off Everything
JenSanCandles-Candles, Soaps and all things that smell good
organicodysseys-OOAK Organic Art from Organic Botanicals
almostartifacts-Traditional Judaic Art with an Ancient Look
polkadotsandals-Unique Jewelry, Quilts, Vintage and Supplies
StudioARTBEAD-Handmade Beads
BlueNostalgia-Dainty. Feminine. Nostalgic.Jewelry

20% Off Everything
SmallEarthVintage-Mid-Century Vintage Clothing & Shoes

50% Off Everything
juicygraphics-Fresh Designs for Your Fine Crafts & Scrapbook Pages

10% off all ornaments and original art
thenightjar-Original Art and Ornaments

20% off shawls
trendyknitting-Hand Knit Creations

$10 sale thru Monday
VintageConfections-mmm…goodies

'Tis the Season...already?

2009-11-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

Holiday season is here, now! Only 43 days 'til Christmas and I'm already feeling the pressure. Along with the usual decorating, shopping and entertaining that goes along with this time of year I have the added joys that come with creating a seasonal find. I have been making my hand painted glass ornaments for about five years and selling them locally at The Art Works in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo Art Center-CraftArt Market. This fall I opened schemata; a second shop on Etsy featuring my fine art crafts. I have been busy creating enough ornaments to keep all my galleries stocked with a variety of shapes and colors to choose from. They have gotten rave reviews from shoppers and those who know what to look for in one of a kind creations-recently featured on MyShoppingConnection and soon they will be available on Fey Handmade.

Scoutie Girl

2009-11-02T07:56:00.000-08:00

My artwork was recently discovered by the fabulously stylish Scoutie Girl *a penchant for the passionately handmade. Have a read to find about about my artistic passion.

Candied Popcorn

2009-10-29T18:06:00.000-07:00

Candied Popcorn or Popcorn Balls are something I grew up with at a variety of holidays. Of course Halloween had orange colored popcorn balls or one of my favorites was the Valentine's Day Heart shaped red candied popcorn from grandma. I have no doubt my sister is reading this and asking herself how she is going to get some of that yummy mountain of popcorn she saw me make on twitter. This simple recipe was passed down and it's a coveted family favorite.

Candied Popcorn-
2 cups (before popping) Popcorn
1 cup butter
1 1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup Corn Syrup
1 tsp vanilla
Optional: Food Coloring of your choice

Pop the popcorn. Set aside in a large bowl or casserole dish.
In a medium saucepan melt butter. Stir in sugar and corn syrup; while stirring bring to a boil and simmer 3 minutes. Be watchful it will bubble and boil over if you are not attentive.
Remove from heat, add vanilla and if using food coloring stir until well combined.
Pour over popcorn; stir and toss with candy syrup until evenly coated. Now you have a choice of shaping into individual servings and packaging so stylishly or saving the entire batch for yourself to eat out of the bowl you just created it in.

Happy Halloween!

Come Shopping With Me!

2009-09-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend only there is a BIG event happening over on Etsy. I’m offering 10% off all framed and unframed prints and photographs, and 10% off all note cards at sarahjohnafana.etsy.com-also find 10% off entire stock of my handmade scarves at schemata. Just enter code "Weekend Deals" in the Message to Seller section of checkout and I will send you a 10% refund off your purchase price (shipping not included) via PayPal.

...and if you’re looking to GET AN EARLY START ON YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING, check out all the WEEKEND DEALS offered by my fellow TEAMT members (Etsy group Team Treasury). Simply use Etsy’s search engine using ‘All Items’ for TEAMT and start saving. Each offering 10-25% off specialty items ranging from art, bath and body, knits, jewelry, pottery, clothing, bags, vintage, supplies, and more... See individual shop announcements for special offers.

Featured Artist

2009-09-17T14:15:00.000-07:00

It's time for a new Business Exhibit coordinated by the
San Luis Obispo Art Center. I have taken over the wall space at
Faye S. Russo Tax and Accounting at 669 Pacific Street, San Luis Obispo. Stop by and take a look at a sampling of my original paintings and photographs.

Stripes II-Digital Photograph

More About Me and My World

2009-09-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

I joined Etsy Team Treasury this last summer and they invited me to be the featured member for the month of September. I enjoyed getting to share some fun stuff from my home and the team has been a great supportive group of my artwork. Take a look at the interview then explore some of the other members shops, there is one representing almost every category on Etsy.

ALTAMIRA Gallery

2009-08-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

A selection of my original watercolor paintings and prints from my
Surfer Series are now available at ALTAMIRA Gallery in New York.

Surf Lesson-Watercolor on Paper, 9.5 x 11.75 inches

iStudio

2009-07-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

I was recently invited to be in an open studio project by Mod3rnArt.
You can see my work space along with many other hard working artists and crafts people. The gallery of photos shows some of the creative set ups and tools we use to make the masterpieces of our collections. Go take a look and discover some of the talent that has been gathered together.

New Featured Painting

2009-07-14T09:17:00.000-07:00

Recently one of my abstract paintings was featured on a new gallery blog Etsy Fine Art Gallery. Marionette is curating a beautiful gallery of fine art she has found on Etsy. She has chosen one of my underwater inspired images which feels appropriate since she herself is located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii (lucky girl).

A Peek Into My Studio

2009-07-06T16:02:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on a commission for four landscape paintings, one 24 x 36" gallery-wrapped canvas and a group of three 12 x 12" gallery-wrapped canvases. The buyers were interested in some of my work but needed paintings in different sizes for their home-of course I am happy to oblige. Below is a look at the work in progress. I prefer to work on multiple projects at once, I find it keeps a series cohesive and allows more experimentation. This is just a glimpse at the trio still in progress while the larger canvas is pretty near complete.

My Etsy Shop Featured

2009-07-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

I am so excited to have my note cards featured by Jackie on Etsy Item of the Day. She maintains a super stylish list of her favorite finds from Etsy sellers. Go take a peek at my feature and browse around at some of the other gorgeous shops she has introduced to everyone.

Something Has Caught Her Eye

2009-06-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

I was recently commissioned to paint one of my pretty girls in a new dress. Everyone close to me will happily tell you what a clothes horse I am, so who was I to say no. For a consummate shopper, finding just the right dress in that perfect shade of robin's egg blue can be a welcome challenge. Below are all the steps taken to give one of my favorite friends a new outfit. Something Has Caught Her Eye is acrylic paint on heavyweight rag board, 16x20".

A Day at The Beach

2009-06-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

I have had the urge to continue on with my A Day at The Beach series. With the added push to create a commissioned new piece I began work on two new scenes. Both paintings below are watercolor paint on canvas that has been treated for wet media. The canvas surface has a unique absorption that can be a bit tricky. I have come to enjoy the challenge and love creating the leisurely days at the beach.
Top: Surf Buddies; Bottom: The Break at Pico-Sold, prints available.

Yart Sale

2009-06-11T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's time for the Second Annual Yart Sale on Etsy. Many shops participate by offering a variety of discounts. I'm joining in!!

For this week only, June 10th-14th-I am offering 20% Off all my Handmade/Hand-Knit Scarves, and I also have Free Shipping on all unframed original art, fine art prints and photographs in my shop. So come by and check it out, maybe this is the day you buy that painting you have had your eye on...

My Etsy Shop

Change Your Latitude

2009-06-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

I feel as if I have been neglecting this lonely blog of mine lately. I apologize for the lack of fascinating posts. It is not that I haven't wanted to fill my few followers in to my work in progress-it's just that I have been too busy actually working on new art to document it in this way-but soon. I have on my calendar new commissioned work as well as additional pieces to continue "My Girls" series and "Day at the Beach" series. I am, as I write this, waiting for larger canvas and rag boards to arrive for the actual work to begin. In the meantime let me leave you with one of my leisurely images from my "Day at the Beach" series. It makes me want for that casual day when my commitments can wait and there are no worries...

Change Your Latitude is a watercolor painting on canvas,
5 x 10". Sold, prints available.

Summer Business Exhibit

2009-05-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

Last week it was time to hang a new selection of work in the Business Exhibit organized by the San Luis Obispo Art Center. My new location is Judy Klearman Investments in San Luis Obispo. She has been a participating business for about 8 years. Although her office is modest in size, she eagerly offers her main hall to a rotation of art every four months.

Along one side I have a group of photos from my Construction Series.

Across from reception are a selection of my abstract paintings that Judy had been interested in.

This show will remain at this location through the summer, until the beginning of September. If you wish to view the show please call ahead to arrange a time;

(805) 784-0106.

A Peek Into My Studio

2009-04-26T21:13:00.000-07:00

I spent my available hours this weekend painting.
I was able to start several landscapes, with a few almost finished. I just wanted to share them as a group in their varied states. There will be better photos and finished paintings listed this week on Etsy.

Vicious Circle

2009-04-22T08:22:00.001-07:00

I know it can be a vicious circle of blogging about somewhat else's blog, but .... I want to give a quick wink and a smile to my new friend at PipingHotPapers. She has taken the time to write a sweet little note about my work and my shop while announcing to the world the arrival of her new granddaughter Naomi.

Congratulations Alice to you and yours

Please check out her blog-Run Alice Run

Ranch Road

2009-04-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have been working on some new landscapes for the spring gallery display. This is a view of our local rolling hills. It is acrylic paint on watercolor paper, about 11x14". If you are in the area come by The Art Works to view some of my new work.

Etsy News

2009-04-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

I have had some fun distracting myself with the Etsy Treasuries-Take a Look

Some Things ARE Black and White
What do You Wish For

And, Sweet Cyd, my BFF from BotanicalBird included one of my paintings in a Treasury of her favorites.

On Monday, April 13th my artwork will be featured in the Etsy Art Showcase-Have a look.

She Can Fit Everything in That Bag

2009-04-08T12:40:00.000-07:00

She can fit everything in that bag. A girl's purse can be her best friend-after all it does keep her iPhone safe. She is an original acrylic painting on 100% rag board, 11x11".$61

She Doesn't Have Time For This

2009-04-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

She quickly throws her purse over her shoulder and out the door she goes. "She Doesn't Have Time For This" is an acrylic painting on 100% rag board, 11x11".
$61

Girls and Their Purses-Step 4

2009-03-30T16:48:00.001-07:00

I've given shape to her purse. The purse handle and some miner details are all that is left.

Girls and Their Purses-Step 3

2009-03-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

I have filled in her clothing and just made a reference to her hair. I want to leave the focus on the purse, and have a subtle vagueness to the figure.

Girls and Their Purses-Step 2

2009-03-26T10:18:00.001-07:00

I have added her flesh tone. Leaving it transparent in some places allows it to still have a connection to the background. Plus, I like the way it gives a kind of glow.

Girls and Their Purses

2009-03-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have had a chance to start some new figure paintings and wanted a chance to show the process.
This is an acrylic painting on rag board, 11x11". Working Very loosely, I covered the entire background with paint. While the paint was wet I lightly drizzled rubbing alcohol in the paint as a resist. The result is the random spatter in the center of the surface.
Once the paint has dried I returned to sketch my figure using a water-soluable graphite pencil (thank you Bob).

Almond Orchard-Sold

2009-03-22T10:54:00.001-07:00

Almond Orchard is a painting with a soft palette that has a few drops of hot pink for the blossoms. The tree trucks are crooked and knarled but the foliage is airy and light, like the orchards in early spring.

It is an acrylic painting on stretched canvas, 24x24".

Spring!

2009-03-20T11:20:00.001-07:00

It's spring now-so here is a happy, fresh face of a geranium.
"Geranium Blossom" is a watercolor and acrylic painting on paper, 7 x 7 1/4 inches.
Prints available on Etsy.

New Prints Available

2009-03-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last day or so setting up a new large format printer in my studio. I will be printing a variety of images from my original paintings in smaller dimensions and listing them for sale in my Etsy shop. I will also be adding new photos as well. Browse around the Etsy shops for awhile- there is a lot of original work out there.

Finally

2009-03-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

All A Part Of The Process is done. The final painting has texture on the porch ground and a vivid color palette. It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36". This painting is on view at The City Hall of San Luis Obispo until May 2009.

Step 6

2009-03-06T10:03:00.000-08:00

I got a chance to add some ground and texture to the porch. Just a few finishing touches left. It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36".

Step 5

2009-03-01T17:14:00.000-08:00

Continuing on with color and dark shades on the roof along with the graying of the pillars. It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36".

Step 4

2009-02-16T10:23:00.000-08:00

Still adding more colors to the windows and details all around. It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36".

Step 3

2009-02-02T16:46:00.001-08:00

A little further along. Some more colors and details added all over. Putting in the reflections on the plastic covered windows. It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36".

Step 2

2009-01-14T17:21:00.001-08:00

I've started filling in some of the areas that are in the background. More detail added through the doorway.
It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36".

Happy New Year-Step 1

2009-01-12T17:17:00.000-08:00

I have been working on some new work and wanted to show a painting as it progresses. This is a piece that will be part of my Construction Series.

This is the painting at the beginning with some undercoating and color blocking started. It is acrylic paint on 1 1/2" deep stretched canvas, 24x36".

Be Back Soon

2008-12-17T17:30:00.000-08:00

I'll take a short break through the holidays. Working on new pieces and I will return to posting after the new year. Merry, Merry!

Mini Landscape #25

2008-12-10T09:57:00.001-08:00

This is a warmup painting, it is acrylic paint with silver outlines on rag board, 5x7".

She'll Tell You How It Is

2008-12-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

This is a figure exercise, it is acrylic paint on rag board, 8x8".

As She Drifted By

2008-12-04T10:47:00.000-08:00

This is a figure exercise, it is acrylic paint on rag board, 8x8".

Gathered Gown

2008-12-02T14:10:00.000-08:00

This is a figure exercise, it is acrylic paint on rag board, 8x8".

Glass Ornaments

2008-12-01T18:25:00.000-08:00

My hand painted glass ornaments are now available at both, The Art Works in Paso Robles and the CraftArt Market at the San Luis Obispo Art Center.

Panorama III

2008-11-20T18:50:00.001-08:00

This is one in a series of three landscapes, it is acrylic paint on rag board, 8x8".

Panorama II

2008-11-18T17:55:00.000-08:00

This is one in a series of three landscapes, it is acrylic paint on rag board, 8x8".