Andrew Wagner shot a short video of me giving a walk-through of the Searchlight Artists Exhibition that I designed at the American Craft Show in Baltimore. Check it out!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Searchlight 2009 - First Day
I know it's late and I should be in bed for another early morning, but I just had to share some first pictures from the Searchlight exhibition with you!
The show opened today and not only did I get some great compliments on how the show looks, but many of the artists did some good sales today as well. Looking forward to the next two days!
When I get back to Brooklyn, I'll compile all my pics into a Flickr slide show so you can see every detail.
Also, very sorry, but things are too nutty to prepare your weekly serving of Friday Snacks. Maybe I should start doing that feature only fortnightly...
The Library is full of info about the artists along with space to sit and read.
The Lodge, with work by Matthew Hutton, Richard Saja, Sylvie Rosenthal, Nanda Soderberg, Hiroe Hanazono, and Jessica Benzaquen.
Artist Naomi Pearson traveled from Brooklyn on Wednesday to execute the wall illustrations.
The Gallery, with work by Kai Wolter, Annica Cuppetelli, and Eun-Suh Choi.
The Dressing Room with work by jewelry makers Maya Kini (pictured right), Amy Tavern, Jennaca Davies, and Stacey Webber.
Stay tuned for much more from Searchlight and the American Craft Show!
The show opened today and not only did I get some great compliments on how the show looks, but many of the artists did some good sales today as well. Looking forward to the next two days!
When I get back to Brooklyn, I'll compile all my pics into a Flickr slide show so you can see every detail.
Also, very sorry, but things are too nutty to prepare your weekly serving of Friday Snacks. Maybe I should start doing that feature only fortnightly...
The Library is full of info about the artists along with space to sit and read.
The Lodge, with work by Matthew Hutton, Richard Saja, Sylvie Rosenthal, Nanda Soderberg, Hiroe Hanazono, and Jessica Benzaquen.
Artist Naomi Pearson traveled from Brooklyn on Wednesday to execute the wall illustrations.
The Gallery, with work by Kai Wolter, Annica Cuppetelli, and Eun-Suh Choi.
The Dressing Room with work by jewelry makers Maya Kini (pictured right), Amy Tavern, Jennaca Davies, and Stacey Webber.
Stay tuned for much more from Searchlight and the American Craft Show!
Posted and images by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Installing Searchlight 2009
"No white walls, no white pedestals. Not that there's anything wrong with that."
So goes my design mantra in planning the Searchlight Artists exhibition we're currently installing at the American Craft Show in Baltimore.
After a long day preparing for the artists to arrive tomorrow, and then an awesome dinner at the Afghan restaurant The Helmand, I'm plum exhausted. But here are some pics from the day. Stay tuned for more tomorrow and Friday!
So goes my design mantra in planning the Searchlight Artists exhibition we're currently installing at the American Craft Show in Baltimore.
After a long day preparing for the artists to arrive tomorrow, and then an awesome dinner at the Afghan restaurant The Helmand, I'm plum exhausted. But here are some pics from the day. Stay tuned for more tomorrow and Friday!
The lovely and talented Ann Pifer of The Grand Hand Gallery stopped by this evening to generously help install wall text.
Dorothy Draper-inspired stripes define the Dressing Room, which will showcase jewelry.
The handsome and capable duo Marty and Tony making sure everything runs smoothly.
Bobby, Skip, and Al painting shelves, installing lights, and making sure I'm happy!
Me figuring out shelf heights with Skip.
Monica Hampton, Director of Education at the American Craft Council, and artist advisor Nicole Carroll help figure out wall text placement.Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Searchlight Exhibition Sneak Peek
On Tuesday I'm heading to Baltimore to install the Searchlight Artists exhibition at the American Craft Show.
After working on the design for months, I can't wait to see everything come together: the definitely-not-white colors, Naomi Pearson's wall drawings, the vanity and sink and couches and electric logs... and of course the amazing sculpture, jewelry, vessels, and furniture by the 13 emerging artists selected for the exhibition this year. I haven't seen any of the work in person yet, so the latter is particularly exciting!
Here's a sneak peek at the show:
I'll be blogging from Baltimore during the course of the week, so stay tuned for real pictures soon!
After working on the design for months, I can't wait to see everything come together: the definitely-not-white colors, Naomi Pearson's wall drawings, the vanity and sink and couches and electric logs... and of course the amazing sculpture, jewelry, vessels, and furniture by the 13 emerging artists selected for the exhibition this year. I haven't seen any of the work in person yet, so the latter is particularly exciting!
Here's a sneak peek at the show:
I'll be blogging from Baltimore during the course of the week, so stay tuned for real pictures soon!
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Friday Snacks (Recipe Edition)
It's Friday -- enjoy the snacks!
And since I missed last week, I added three of my favorite recipes at the end for you to try -- yum!
A little twee? Yes. But this embroidery-wrapped rock is also quite appealing to me, and I really like the color and pattern. (Via WhipUp)
Knitta Please! strikes in London! Brilliant!. (Via Extreme Craft)
Need a nice dinner idea? How about Seared Scallops on a Bed of Fresh English Pea and Mint Purée? Looks fairly easy, and deeeelish! From a new cookbook called Cooking for Two. Gotta try this when the spring peas hit the farmer's market... (Via Craftzine)
Cool New Blog Alert! Dude Craft brings you closer to all things crafty... and guy-friendly.
Check out these pictures from the Tokyo International Great Quilt Festival take by Moonstitches. Astonishing stuff. (Via Craftzine)
Bonus time! These are three of my favorite recipes that can be found online:
And since I missed last week, I added three of my favorite recipes at the end for you to try -- yum!
A little twee? Yes. But this embroidery-wrapped rock is also quite appealing to me, and I really like the color and pattern. (Via WhipUp)Knitta Please! strikes in London! Brilliant!. (Via Extreme Craft)
Need a nice dinner idea? How about Seared Scallops on a Bed of Fresh English Pea and Mint Purée? Looks fairly easy, and deeeelish! From a new cookbook called Cooking for Two. Gotta try this when the spring peas hit the farmer's market... (Via Craftzine)
Cool New Blog Alert! Dude Craft brings you closer to all things crafty... and guy-friendly.
Check out these pictures from the Tokyo International Great Quilt Festival take by Moonstitches. Astonishing stuff. (Via Craftzine)Bonus time! These are three of my favorite recipes that can be found online:
Oven Puffed Pancake
You make this in a cast iron skillet. It's so dramatic (puffs way up in the oven) and delicious. Super with maple syrup, fruit, nutella, you name it. An easy treat to make for yourself, and at the same time a bit of brunch wizardry to amaze your guest! (Serves 2-4)
Creamy Indian Lentils & Rice
My go-to recipe when I'm out of everything but am willing to run to the deli for sour cream. Serve with toasted pita bread and carrot sticks. A totally adequate protein source by itself, it occurs to me some sliced up sausage mixed in might be a tasty addition. (Serves 4-6)
Swedish Meatballs
So perfectly spicy, so succulent in their gravy. Really good with a side of buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes and some blanched green beans. (Serves 4-6)
You make this in a cast iron skillet. It's so dramatic (puffs way up in the oven) and delicious. Super with maple syrup, fruit, nutella, you name it. An easy treat to make for yourself, and at the same time a bit of brunch wizardry to amaze your guest! (Serves 2-4)
Creamy Indian Lentils & Rice
My go-to recipe when I'm out of everything but am willing to run to the deli for sour cream. Serve with toasted pita bread and carrot sticks. A totally adequate protein source by itself, it occurs to me some sliced up sausage mixed in might be a tasty addition. (Serves 4-6)
Swedish Meatballs
So perfectly spicy, so succulent in their gravy. Really good with a side of buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes and some blanched green beans. (Serves 4-6)
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
A Tear for Conan
Just have to say, I can't believe tomorrow night is Conan's last show in NYC.
The guy is so much a part of my idea of New York, it just doesn't compute in my brain!
If you love the Cone-Man as much as I do, you might enjoy watching the Charlie Rose interview he did a while back.
Such a smart, cool guy. I think he even may have been the first to start showing record album covers instead of CDs when introducing a band, a recent technological reversion. Sigh!
What do you think, will L.A. ruin him... or make him even better?
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Siftables: Building Blocks Meet the Digital Age
Woah. This is like Waldorf goes high tech. And I want it!
This 7 minute video presenting Siftables is incredibly amazing and absorbing. It's digital technology at a whole 'nuther level.
Check it out, and hold on to your hat!
From their website:
"What are Siftables?
"Siftables are cookie-sized computers with motion sensing, neighbor detection, graphical display, and wireless communication. They act in concert to form a single interface: users physically manipulate them - piling, grouping, sorting - to interact with digital information and media. Siftables provides a new platform on which to implement tangible, visual and mobile applications.
"Who created Siftables?
"Siftables was created by David Merrill and Jeevan Kalanithi at the MIT Media Lab."
Welcome to the future, folks!
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Inspiration vs. Motivation
As I work on writing my response to the Handmade Nation documentary, I wanted to share this short, thought-provoking piece on inspiration v. motivation by Rob Walker that appeared recently on his blog Murketing.
Inspiration vs. motivation -- I didn't get it right off the bat, but since reading it's been on my mind. It actually relates to something Andrew Wagner said during the book panel on Thurs., that there are two kinds of people in the world: those that do and those that only think about doing.
In the post, Walker writes, "People with ideas are a dime a dozen; people who execute are rare."
He then confesses, "I don’t know about you, but when I look at my to-do list, I wonder where I fall on that continuum — will I be motivated to get things done this year, or merely inspired to add to add to my list?"
I wonder the same thing. I'll bet most of you do too. If not, what's your secret?
Scientifically speaking, motivation is "a series of small behaviors," Walker quotes. "You get pumped up and 'inspired,' and then before long you’re right back where you were … needing 'inspiration' again." The vicious cycle, and one fed by "gurus" everywhere (like the people who make posters like this).I seek and covet good sources of inspiration, but sometimes struggle with maintaining the little routines that reflect motivation. Maybe I've always had a problem with discipline. Or maybe it's because inspiration comes from the outside and true motivation can only come from within. It's always that inside stuff that's the tough part.
(External attempts at motivation are extremely creepy to me, from this corporate example to this government-level one. But that's a whole 'nuther topic.)
How do you keep yourself on track with the "small behaviors" of motivation?
P.S.
Sorry there were no Friday Snacks this week! There will be extra servings this week... Stay tuned!
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Image at top: the Inspiration of St. Matthew.
Image at top: the Inspiration of St. Matthew.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Complete List of Etsy Picks - Virtual Valentine's Shopping Spree
After last week's Shop Live event, Etsy posted some of my picks, but if you'd like to see all of my selections here you go -- a little virtual shopping for you!
They're arranged in parts, and descriptions follow the links. (If the links don't work, the item has sold.) Enjoy!
Part 1: Valentine’s date outfit for a cute Italian spot in the East Village
1. Dark grey organic cotton jersey dress with gathered front by Emily Ryan in Portland, OR
This dress looks soft and comfortable, but is stylishly sculptural at the same time. It would work over a long-sleeved tee shirt and leggings for cooler months, as well as on its own in the summer, and can be dressed up or down. The perfect garment, really. Plus it’s made from organic cotton jersey.
2. Large hoops with red detail by Muscovie in San Francisco, CA
Although resin isn’t exactly eco-friendly – in fact artists who work in synthetics like resin or polylmer clay really have to be careful about ventilation because the fumes are quite toxic -- but I have loved her jewelry for years, and these hoops are perfect with the rest of the outfit.
3. Red retro handmade shoes by zerkahloostrah in Holyoke, MA
Although I don’t actually own a pair, I LOVE handmade shoes. These are really amazing, and I’d wear them to death!
4. Poppy clutch by Shakuyaku in San Diego, CA
Lends a nice burst of holiday-appropriate color to go against the dark grey dress. Plus I’m one of those people who is crazy for anything with poppies on it!
5. Bent wooden (curly Anigre) bracelet by Bent On Wood in Hornby Island, BC (pictured above right)
Wooden jewelry is so underrated. This cuff is the kind of thing I could see myself wearing every day.
6. Squirt recycled aluminum can pendant by Funky Recycling in Las Vegas, NV
I don’t usually go for pop stuff like this, but for a Valentine’s Day accessory it’s fun, and gives a little low-brow irreverence to the rest of the outfit. (What’s Squirt, anyway?)
Part 2: Valentine’s brunch with mother-in-law at the Met
7. Pink organic cotton shift dress with scalloped neckline by Brook There in Portland, ME
This is a fantastic dress. A softer taken on the classic shift, the lines here are long and elegant and I’ve been a sucker for scalloped necklines since the 80s. The most surprising thing is that it’s made from organic cotton. A very bold but versatile piece.
8. Gold brocade clutch by Sows Ear Bags in Portsmouth, UK
This bag is the perfect compliment to the dress, and adds a nice vintage feeling to the outfit.
9. Revamped vintage red and yellow bead necklace by Divine Rose in Sydney, AUS (pictured above left)
The artist who made this piece uses old vintage earrings and brooches to build great necklaces and bracelets. While the red beads might be a little loud against the pink dress, I just love it, especially with the yellow beads.
10. Revamped blue and yellow bracelet by Divine Rose in Sydney, AUS
When the dress is so quiet, you can go louder with accessories. So why not do the necklace AND the bracelet? With all that, though, I’d probably not wear any earrings at all, or else just tiny little studs.
Part 3: Valentines Presents for Others (and also myself)
11. Organic Milk Chocolate Florentines by Baked by the Lake, Tahoe City, CA (pictured right)
Ok, listen up Husband: I’ve had enough boxes of Jacques Torres to last me a lifetime. This year, how about a batch of these awesome-looking cookies! They look like those Pepperidge Farm Brussels cookies, but really really really good. Like I could eat them all. Right now.
12. Gold & floral Boots by Woland and Moon
These are absolutely insanely incredible handmade boots. They might even work with the grey dress. I’d wear them once for my Valentine’s date, then send them to my little sister who is a burgeoning bluegrass/rock star in Maui. (Hmm, do they wear boots in Maui? Maybe I should just keep ‘em…)
13. Arm warmers by Fairie Moon in Albany, NY
Ok, these are also for me. But when I’m sitting here at my desk like I am right now, my wrists sure get cold… They’re felted and sewn lambs wool from a reclaimed sweater.
14. Green flower satin bobby pins by Traxa in Lisbon, Portugal
I came across these sweet little hair pins and couldn’t resist adding them to the mix. They’d also make a nice present for a little girl.
15. Aqua quilled paper earrings by Paper Delights in San Jose, CA
When I was a kid, I discovered an old quilling kit at my grandmother’s house and spent the next few weeks twirling narrow strips of blue paper around and around the little stylus making scads of useless round flowers. This quilling artist has turned her twirls into rather sophisticated looking jewelry. Paired with the right outfit, these earrings would look absolutely regal. Maybe for my Great Aunt.
16. Skull ring by Bad Ass Jewelry in Toronto (pictured left)
My husband has always wanted a great skull ring, like Keith Richards’. Maybe this would fit the bill.
17. Tiny USB Rechargeable Handmade Light Seeking Robot with Reverse - BEAM - Phototropicus Type 1, from Eastern TN
This is so damn cool. A little light-seeking robot by husband and wife team of artists, inventors, and builders, Middle Creek Merchants. Also for Husband. (pictured right)
18. Terrarium pendants by Warm Country Meadows in Fayetteville, PA
I would like to keep a stockpile of these and give them to every little kid I meet. They’re fascinating!
19. Milky Way Cowl by Fringe in San Diego, CA
This is for Omma (my mother-in-law) who love knitted things and whose house is always a little too cold. She often wears a scarf around her neck, but this piece would keep her warm without the ends getting in the way. Plus it’s very pretty.
Part 4: Love for My Apartment
20. Hedgerow vinyl wall decal by Elly Nelly in NYC
When my friend Rena Tom of Rare Device left her Brooklyn location, which was right next door to Greenjeans in Park Slope, she gave me a set of abstract green flower wall decals that I’d admired. I recently arranged them in my bathroom and love them. Now I want more! Etsy has lots, like this lovely hedgerow, that’s available in any color. The reason they’re so great is that you can hang them wherever you like, remove them when you move away or get sick of them, and don’t have to repaint the wall. So while vinyl is not exactly an eco-friendly material, the fact that they can be used over and over does have its advantages.
21. Woven Felt Rug by Feel Design in Oregon
I love texture and natural colors. This rug is a study in both. I would put it in my bedroom.
22. Three terrariums by Lady Farrah in Oakland, TN
While browsing Etsy by category, I saw there’s a Plants and Edibles category. I’m interested in terrariums lately. These would make a really nice housewarming or even Valentine’s present for a country girl like me who sometimes misses the textures and colors of the woods.
23. Antoine Tries His Best to Impress Babette, by Viv Strauss in Portland, OR (pictured left)
I’m a fan of comic/narrative/ironic embroidery. This is a fine specimen. (Strauss’ work in upcoming Forget Me Not embroidery show at Gallery Hanahou.)
24. Poetry chapbook by Lady Pajama
I like chapbooks and artist books and zines of certain ilk. This one looks promising, and the author sounds to be very dedicated to the form.
Coda: Finds too Far Out Not to Mention
25. Real squirrel foot earrings from Louisiana
Egad!!
26. Rustic Deer Hoof Gun, Hat, or Coat Rack on Hickory Log from… doesn’t say where
Yikes!
27. Rex, the Mardi Gras Alligator, by Dead Men Telling Tales from “The Night”
The BEST USE OF GLITTER EVER!
Thanks again, Etsy!
They're arranged in parts, and descriptions follow the links. (If the links don't work, the item has sold.) Enjoy!
Part 1: Valentine’s date outfit for a cute Italian spot in the East Village
1. Dark grey organic cotton jersey dress with gathered front by Emily Ryan in Portland, OR
This dress looks soft and comfortable, but is stylishly sculptural at the same time. It would work over a long-sleeved tee shirt and leggings for cooler months, as well as on its own in the summer, and can be dressed up or down. The perfect garment, really. Plus it’s made from organic cotton jersey.
2. Large hoops with red detail by Muscovie in San Francisco, CA
Although resin isn’t exactly eco-friendly – in fact artists who work in synthetics like resin or polylmer clay really have to be careful about ventilation because the fumes are quite toxic -- but I have loved her jewelry for years, and these hoops are perfect with the rest of the outfit.
3. Red retro handmade shoes by zerkahloostrah in Holyoke, MA
Although I don’t actually own a pair, I LOVE handmade shoes. These are really amazing, and I’d wear them to death!
4. Poppy clutch by Shakuyaku in San Diego, CA
Lends a nice burst of holiday-appropriate color to go against the dark grey dress. Plus I’m one of those people who is crazy for anything with poppies on it!
5. Bent wooden (curly Anigre) bracelet by Bent On Wood in Hornby Island, BC (pictured above right)
Wooden jewelry is so underrated. This cuff is the kind of thing I could see myself wearing every day.
6. Squirt recycled aluminum can pendant by Funky Recycling in Las Vegas, NV
I don’t usually go for pop stuff like this, but for a Valentine’s Day accessory it’s fun, and gives a little low-brow irreverence to the rest of the outfit. (What’s Squirt, anyway?)
Part 2: Valentine’s brunch with mother-in-law at the Met
7. Pink organic cotton shift dress with scalloped neckline by Brook There in Portland, ME
This is a fantastic dress. A softer taken on the classic shift, the lines here are long and elegant and I’ve been a sucker for scalloped necklines since the 80s. The most surprising thing is that it’s made from organic cotton. A very bold but versatile piece.
8. Gold brocade clutch by Sows Ear Bags in Portsmouth, UK
This bag is the perfect compliment to the dress, and adds a nice vintage feeling to the outfit.
9. Revamped vintage red and yellow bead necklace by Divine Rose in Sydney, AUS (pictured above left)
The artist who made this piece uses old vintage earrings and brooches to build great necklaces and bracelets. While the red beads might be a little loud against the pink dress, I just love it, especially with the yellow beads.
10. Revamped blue and yellow bracelet by Divine Rose in Sydney, AUS
When the dress is so quiet, you can go louder with accessories. So why not do the necklace AND the bracelet? With all that, though, I’d probably not wear any earrings at all, or else just tiny little studs.
Part 3: Valentines Presents for Others (and also myself)
11. Organic Milk Chocolate Florentines by Baked by the Lake, Tahoe City, CA (pictured right)
Ok, listen up Husband: I’ve had enough boxes of Jacques Torres to last me a lifetime. This year, how about a batch of these awesome-looking cookies! They look like those Pepperidge Farm Brussels cookies, but really really really good. Like I could eat them all. Right now.
12. Gold & floral Boots by Woland and Moon
These are absolutely insanely incredible handmade boots. They might even work with the grey dress. I’d wear them once for my Valentine’s date, then send them to my little sister who is a burgeoning bluegrass/rock star in Maui. (Hmm, do they wear boots in Maui? Maybe I should just keep ‘em…)
13. Arm warmers by Fairie Moon in Albany, NY
Ok, these are also for me. But when I’m sitting here at my desk like I am right now, my wrists sure get cold… They’re felted and sewn lambs wool from a reclaimed sweater.
14. Green flower satin bobby pins by Traxa in Lisbon, Portugal
I came across these sweet little hair pins and couldn’t resist adding them to the mix. They’d also make a nice present for a little girl.
15. Aqua quilled paper earrings by Paper Delights in San Jose, CA
When I was a kid, I discovered an old quilling kit at my grandmother’s house and spent the next few weeks twirling narrow strips of blue paper around and around the little stylus making scads of useless round flowers. This quilling artist has turned her twirls into rather sophisticated looking jewelry. Paired with the right outfit, these earrings would look absolutely regal. Maybe for my Great Aunt.
16. Skull ring by Bad Ass Jewelry in Toronto (pictured left)My husband has always wanted a great skull ring, like Keith Richards’. Maybe this would fit the bill.
17. Tiny USB Rechargeable Handmade Light Seeking Robot with Reverse - BEAM - Phototropicus Type 1, from Eastern TN
This is so damn cool. A little light-seeking robot by husband and wife team of artists, inventors, and builders, Middle Creek Merchants. Also for Husband. (pictured right)
18. Terrarium pendants by Warm Country Meadows in Fayetteville, PA
I would like to keep a stockpile of these and give them to every little kid I meet. They’re fascinating!
19. Milky Way Cowl by Fringe in San Diego, CA
This is for Omma (my mother-in-law) who love knitted things and whose house is always a little too cold. She often wears a scarf around her neck, but this piece would keep her warm without the ends getting in the way. Plus it’s very pretty.
Part 4: Love for My Apartment
20. Hedgerow vinyl wall decal by Elly Nelly in NYC
When my friend Rena Tom of Rare Device left her Brooklyn location, which was right next door to Greenjeans in Park Slope, she gave me a set of abstract green flower wall decals that I’d admired. I recently arranged them in my bathroom and love them. Now I want more! Etsy has lots, like this lovely hedgerow, that’s available in any color. The reason they’re so great is that you can hang them wherever you like, remove them when you move away or get sick of them, and don’t have to repaint the wall. So while vinyl is not exactly an eco-friendly material, the fact that they can be used over and over does have its advantages.
21. Woven Felt Rug by Feel Design in Oregon
I love texture and natural colors. This rug is a study in both. I would put it in my bedroom.
22. Three terrariums by Lady Farrah in Oakland, TN
While browsing Etsy by category, I saw there’s a Plants and Edibles category. I’m interested in terrariums lately. These would make a really nice housewarming or even Valentine’s present for a country girl like me who sometimes misses the textures and colors of the woods.
23. Antoine Tries His Best to Impress Babette, by Viv Strauss in Portland, OR (pictured left)
I’m a fan of comic/narrative/ironic embroidery. This is a fine specimen. (Strauss’ work in upcoming Forget Me Not embroidery show at Gallery Hanahou.)
24. Poetry chapbook by Lady Pajama
I like chapbooks and artist books and zines of certain ilk. This one looks promising, and the author sounds to be very dedicated to the form.
Coda: Finds too Far Out Not to Mention
25. Real squirrel foot earrings from Louisiana
Egad!!
26. Rustic Deer Hoof Gun, Hat, or Coat Rack on Hickory Log from… doesn’t say where
Yikes!
27. Rex, the Mardi Gras Alligator, by Dead Men Telling Tales from “The Night”
The BEST USE OF GLITTER EVER!
Thanks again, Etsy!
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Day in Pictures: Handmade Neighborhood
I woke up feeling more pictures than words today. So I took pictures of the handmade things I came across during the day.
From the Manhattan Bridge, through the Lower East Side, then back to Brooklyn for the Handmade Nation book signing, here's my day in pictures. (Ok, and a few words too...!)
RIGHT: Jae checking out the crazy gate in front of a gallery on the Lower East Side.
Jae and I took advantage of the mild weather to go out for a long walk. (Underemployment has its advantages, I guess!) We started by walking across the Manhattan Bridge, from which you get a great view of the (handmade!) Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan. Here, a tug boat hauls scrap metal into New York Harbor.
An incredible amount of colorful graffiti adorns the rooftops of buildings at the end of the bridge. I love it. Welcome to Chinatown.
A painter working en plein air capturing the skyline. How cool to paint on the bridge!
Lunch at Vanessa's Dumplings. You can watch women in the kitchen making every dumpling by hand, then they're cooked to order. All this plus a soda for only $7.50! It's absolutely delicious, (until I hit my threshold for overlooking unidentifiable meat...)
Move over cupcakes!! The passion fruit cream puff I had today at Panade rocked my world. It's a smart, sweet little bakery, and the coffee was good too. I'd love to see these guys at the Brooklyn Flea...
We saw lots of art in the new crop of galleries sprinkled throughout the Lower East Side, but only one work-in-progress. Hours later when when we re-crossed the bridge, the painter had made considerable progress. I like how he even paints the chain link fence that veils his view.
After a quick disco nap, I went out again, this time just down the street to the Powerhouse Bookstore to catch the panel discussion and book signing for Handmade Nation, (which I reviewed here earlier this week). The event drew a very good crowd. We watched the trailer for the documentary, which will be screened tomorrow night.
Faythe Levine (the filmmaker), Courtney Heimerl (her co-writer for the book), and Sabrina Gschwandtner (Knit, Knit) sit before the audience (left to right), with Andrew Wagner (American Craft Magazine) moderating.
An audience member live blogs (I think!), while another knits.
Mingling and congratulating after the talk. It was an upbeat evening, and everyone is so excited about this project!My reaction to the documentary, and more pictures, soon...
Posted and images by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Greenjeans Review: Handmade Nation - The Book
The companion book to the documentary of the same name, Handmade Nation: The Rise of DIY, Art, Craft, and Design by Faythe Levine and Cortney Heimerl is a book you want in your collection (Princeton Architectural Press, 2008, $24.95. On Amazon for $18.96).
A collection of profiles of 24 new wave craft artists, with lots of photos and text written by the artists, comprises the majority of the book. Organized by region, they offer friendly glimpses into some of the many studios and lifestyles of independent craft-makers around the country.
I generally like portraits-of-the-artist-in-the-studio books, and Handmade Nation is a valuable addition to the genre. While Liberman’s 1960 gem The Artist in His Studio is still my all time fave, this book just might be the much-needed all-female counterpart to that.
The essays interspersed throughout are good, at times thought-provoking and inspiring. Written by Andrew Wagner of American Craft Magazine, Callie Janoff of the Church of Craft, and Garth Johnson of the blog Extreme Craft (who asks “would there be indie craft without the internet?”), among others, they add context and insights for understanding this new craft movement.
In the Preface, Levine tells the story of how her project to document the handmade scene was born. At one point she writes, “Without really being conscious of it, we were creating an independent economy free from corporate ties.” I believe in this idea of a parallel economy – it's part of what inspired us to start Greenjeans -- and despite these rough economic times I am optimistic about the future of independent craft, throughout the greater craft world.
The book – and I expect the documentary too -- is essentially a love letter to the handmade nation, as well as a delicious gift to anyone who loves craft. I challenge anyone to read this book and not fall in love with the phenomenon of the craft new wave.
. . .
Levine and co. are in town this week at Powerhouse Books for a talk and book signing, then at the Museum of Arts and Design for the documentary's New York premier.
Click here for more opportunities to catch Handmade Nation on tour!
And check out the Handmade Nation blog to see media coverage and events corresponding with the book and film tour.
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Continue the Change Volunteer Fair TODAY
Looking to volunteer for the greater good in NYC, but don't know where to start? Then head to Brooklyn TODAY, Feb. 8, from 2:00-6:00 where more than 65 local nonprofits, charities, and advocacy groups will come together for the first-ever Continue the Change Service Fair.
The Service Fair is organized by Brooklyn for Barack and the Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats, and, as the press release describes, "the event will be part of an ongoing effort to harness the incredible energy sparked by the Obama campaign. Attendees will have an opportunity to speak with representatives of organizations that are offering concrete volunteer opportunities like writing, teaching, tutoring, filmmaking, phonebanking, mentoring, word processing, stocking food pantries, sewing clothes for survivors of domestic violence, working with animals, canvassing, gardening and farming, ushering at performances, photography, and job-search mentoring.
"There will also be a Make and Take arts table for kids and roundtable discussions on the following subjects: Local Environmental Activism, Using Technology to Monitor and Influence the Legislative Process, Health Care, Voting Rights, and Food Justice," continues the press release.
The event will be at Union Temple, 17 Eastern Parkway (at Grand Army Plaza), in the 3rd Floor ballroom. It is free to attend, but the organizers suggest a donation of a box of dried pasta for Union Temple's food drive.
To RSVP, please email continuethechange@gmail.com or call 718-757-8572.
This will be a rich, inspiring opportunity to start getting involved! Thanks to Brooklyn-based fiber artist, Jeanne Heifitz, for the head's up.
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans. Image sourced here.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Friday Snacks! (Recap Edition)
It's Friday... and I've been snacking all week!
Catch up with the latest tasty treats:
My Shop Live Webcast at Etsy Labs
From Valentine's date outfits to unexpectedly far-out finds, check out my delicious Etsy selections from yesterday's webcast! (All 27 items forthcoming.)
(Thanks again Danielle & Michelle!)
I've also assembled a Valentine's Gift Guide with sweet ideas from our Webshop. Remember, 20% off!
Coming soon:
- Review of Handmade Nation (the book)
- Sneak-peek at the Searchlight Artist's Exhibition at the upcoming American Craft Show
- 5 fresh new snacks next week!
Stay tuned...
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Valentine's Gift Guide & Discount
Greenjeans Valentine's Day Gift Guide is finally online!
Click the link on our homepage to find dozens of suggested gift ideas.
I have also posted Jane Kaufmann's Valentines series, several of the popular Orb sculptures, and a number of her Wall Relief pieces, all of which make great presents.
If you order between now and Feb. 14, we will give you 20% off your purchase! Just enter or give us the code LOVE at checkout. (Applies to in-stock items only.)
Then, we can ship to you, or contact us to arrange local pick up or delivery.
And remember to log on to watch my Valentine's Shopping Spree on Etsy tonight at 5pm. I promise some pretty unexpected finds, especially toward the end!
Posted and image by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
My Virtual Valentine's Shopping Spree on Etsy - LIVE!
[Corrections: Event is at 5pm (NOT at 7pm). And please scroll down for correct viewing info!]Join me in Etsy's Virtual Labs on Thursday night (5pm EST) for a fun Shop Live event!
Etsy's Michelle will host as I share My Virtual Valentine's Shopping Spree. You can even leave comments during the event!
From sweet dresses and sultry shoes to yummy handbags and delicious jewelry, I'm looking for PERSONAL favorites this time (a few of which are pictured here), with a focus on organic fabrics and vintage finds, rather than things I'd like to have at Greenjeans, which was my idea back in Oct. '07 when I was an Etsy Featured Buyer.
TO WATCH, go to Etsy's Virtual Labs and log in (yup, you have to sign up to watch), then click on "Auditorium" to enter. The video will be streaming LIVE starting at 5pm.If you miss it, there will be a link to all my picks posted later, and I'll reblog about it too.
Previous Shop Live shoppers include Andrew Wagner of American Craft Magazine, Garth Johnson of Extreme Craft, Jonathan Butler of Brownstoner and the Brooklyn Flea, and Bronwyn Keenan of the Guggenheim Museum.
It will be an entertaining half-hour of indie shopping fun -- hope you'll join me!
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
Images via Etsy - click to see details.
Monday, February 02, 2009
CPSC Postpones Testing Requirements for 1 Year
Our voices have been heard!
To the great relief of makers and sellers of handmade children's goods, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has voted to postpone lead test requirements for 1 year.
That means the Feb. 10, 2009, deadline for testing of all components of items intended for children under age 12 (from clothing to toys to books) is NO LONGER VALID.
We still need to encourage adjustment of the CPSIA to exempt small-scale makers from having to submit to the expensive testing whenever it does go into enforcement, but this delay signals the Commission's positive response to our concerns.
Click here to read the full press release.
Hat tip to Etsy's The Storque for breaking the news.
Posted by Amy Shaw for Greenjeans.
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