Lala and Gleen

Nova Scotia Ice Wine Festival

2012-02-03T12:47:00.000-04:00

It's the time of year where the temperatures have dipped and the snow on the ground is glistening in the beautiful sunlight. It's also the time of year where Nova Scotia celebrates the bounty of Ice Wine combined with local food and outdoor activities. You can view a list the many events here:
http://www.nsicewinefestival.ca/events/2012-02/

Over the past two winters I have decided to truly embrace the season ~ one of which I have not always been entirely fond of. It helps to have a dog to get you outside ~ watching their tail wag even in the most frigid and stormy conditions keeping the feeling of happy alive! On my daily walks through the forest I often stop to admire the many lines and forms of ice in the various frozen pools along the trails. When the sky is bright blue, the ice emits a bluish hue. I always carry my camera with me on these walks and love to discover the many "Ice Formations" which change each day with the rise and fall of temperatures.

I am lucky enough to showcase some of my photographs at my favourite local shop, The Gaspereau Fibre Shop http://www.gaspereauvalleyfibres.ca/. This weekend they will feature wine from a local organic winery, L'Acadie http://www.lacadievineyards.ca/ and also have a chef on site who will create a dish from local lamb.

We are indeed so very lucky to live in the Annapolis Valley where food and community keep the spirit of creativity alive on so many different levels. I love this place and will take every opportunity to celebrate it and embrace February.

Wintertime Artisan Show

2011-11-16T17:39:00.001-04:00

You are invited to join us on December 3rd, 2011 for a festive day of wintertime celebration of locally crafted creations and an array of friendly faces. Enjoy a glass of mulled cider and delectable treats as you enjoy a festive atmosphere. Any donations to the foodbank are welcomed. Thanks for your presence. :)

December 3, 2011
10am - 4pm
Wolfville Lion's Hall (Elm St., mere steps from the Wolfville Farmers' Market).

Sneak Peek of Exhibit

2011-10-02T11:10:00.000-03:00

Show Statement –

In mid-autumn when the air grows colder and the nights longer, comes the hunter moon. Autumn is the time to reap the benefits from the long days of summer. Food is plentiful. In preparation for the coming long nights much of it is preserved and put away, but there are still the feasts. A carpe diem celebration of the bounty brought by the sun and the animals that give their lives. We think it is important to acknowledge and honour these gifts. When we do, we put an end to industrial farming and factory-produced animals. We regain in our health and enjoyment of the things that really make life good.

Ceramic artist (Tracy Horsman) and painter (Angela Melanson) reconnect with the cycle of life and death, celebrating the rhythms of hunting and foraging. This body of work includes limited edition vessels for enjoying the feast and embracing some of the ancient food traditions like tonics and ales and paintings inspired by our fellow omnivores and the bountiful Acadian forest.

Art for feast and forage under the HUNTER moon

2011-09-26T12:36:00.000-03:00

Thought I would share with you the 6 completed mixed medium paintings I will have for my upcoming exhibit at Copper Fox Gallery in Halls Harbour, Nova Scotia. I will be sure to take photos of the exhibit where you'll be able to view both mine and ceramic artist Tracy Horsman's work. Until then, thanks for looking! :)

You can view titles, sizes, prices and how to purchase on the Lala & Gleen Facebook page. I hope to have all of these details up before the opening on Friday, September 30th.

Feast and Forage Under the Hunter Moon

2011-09-22T17:10:00.000-03:00

You are cordially invited to an exhibit by two artists based on foraging for food and inspiration in and around the Acadian Forest of Nova Scotia which surrounds our homes.

September......sigh.....

2011-09-01T22:55:00.000-03:00

Wow....I can't believe it's September already....and i'm sure I say this every year at this exact date. It's been a funny summer season with lots to do but somehow not completing all that I had envisioned for myself. So, it's back on task after the past few weeks with hurricanes, visitors, seasonal allergies and a new plan for the year. I've been in the studio painting away with a couple of themes happening. So far I have two examples of works completed to show you. I hope your summer season was most delightful and all looks good for garden harvests, a break in hot temperatures and perhaps even a bit of a shift in schedule with something more routine or even something new lined up for yourself to learn. September......I actually like you. :)

2011-07-12T09:54:00.000-03:00

Due to unfortunate circumstances I will not be able to make the Artisans at the Distillery Show in Toronto at the end of July. I will however post the artwork that I have been creating for this show online ~ most
likely on the Lala & Gleen facebook page. I'm disappointed but will keep you posted on future shows and exhibits.

Until then, happy summer. :)

New Pieces and upcoming Art show

2011-06-24T14:43:00.000-03:00

Since my last exhibit BICYCLE, I have been doing a bit of gardening as a little break before I start my next intensive studio time ~ painting and felting for an upcoming Art & Craft show in Toronto at the Distillery District (July 30th, 31st and August 1st). Of course this gardening project has been very much a weather permitting type of break....so on the rainy days I have been working away in the studio. Here are two of my most recent paintings (continuing the theme of animals on bicycles).

Slow Rider
Acrylic, Pastel and Pencil on Wood Panel
24" x 24"
Price $550

This piece was inspired by a friend who works with seals. Grey Seals can be found throughout various coastal communities in Nova Scotia. I once had the opportunity to swim near them in the wild.

Please do drop by if you are in the area (Distillery District in Toronto) on July 30th, 31st and August 1st. I look forward to seeing you and also meeting those I have yet to have the pleasure to meet. :)

Another person's treasure.....

2011-06-07T18:18:00.000-03:00

Every year the surrounding municipality (and province) has one day (in the spring and fall) where residents are allowed to put large appliances, furniture, and boxes of non-toxic, unwanted items on the curbside for garbage pickup. Lots of households opt to toss their goods to the curb a few days before actual pickup day. This gives other people the opportunity to check out the goods and bring them home if they'd like. It really is a great way to reuse and reduce the amounts of items going to the dump. This sort of exchange offers many opportunities in all kinds of ways. It provides people with much wanted items that they simply have not been able to find or afford. It also gives people new ways to look at things by creating projects ~ like painting an old wooden chair or piecing many dresser shelves together to create a dynamic and unique new bookshelf. It's all about divergent thinking (as my friend Tracy would say).

One of my favourite finds is a vintage Remington typewriter which now resides in my studio and provides me with entertainment, thoughts on bygone eras and the quality of goods of those eras. I simply can't walk by it without contemplating how much longer things would have taken compared to our "plugged~in lifestyle" of today.

I am embracing the idea of the Slow Movement in all aspects of life ~ from food, to travel, to lifestyle. I adore the old one speed, back pedal bicycles, handmade bread making and the clickety~clack sounds from punching the keys on a typewriter. My focus for my next body of work will most certainly derive inspiration from the very things that may have been moved to the way side because they take too long, are not efficient or simply say "old".

Bring on the home infused tonics, garden grown tomatoes and vintage tunes from old record players. I still love my computer and the access to today's modern ammenities, but there is something about the quality and quirky features of yesterday's inventions.

Let's all do our part to reuse something we have found ~ whether in the backs of our closets or on the roadside. I highly recommend the film Wasteland if you need any inspiration.

Happy dumpster diving, roadside recycling and closet creativity!!! :)

Wild Orchids, frogs and spring...

2011-06-01T13:12:00.001-03:00

Thanks to all who came out to the opening of my Bicycle exhibit!! :) The show will be up until June 26, 2011 at Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada. If you are interested in viewing the artwork, you can visit www.harvestgallery.ca (click on events to view the exhibit).

After finally getting the show up, it was time for me to take a break and enjoy the season and rest a bit before I begin my next project. During this rest I took photographs of the wild orchids that surround my home and of course played in the forest with my dog.

I always love this time of year when I get to discover the many variations, shapes and sizes of the lady slippers ~ such a fascinating floral species. They are considered endangered ~ so we are not allowed to pick them. I do remember as I child though, bringing one of these flowers home to my mother. While she appreciated the gesture she made sure I only enjoyed the flowers in nature where they grew. Since then I have appreciated their beauty as every May/June rolls around.

Some of the trails on our property are quite wet due to all of the rain we have had over the past month. I'm sure the frogs LOVE it! I have been taking photos of the same frog for the past week ~ we greet each other with a glance and then he/she sits still while I photograph him/her in the mud. I always thank the frog for its patience. :)

Another wee project I have been working on is a little book titled "Art & Inspiration". It is a collection of art and inspiration based on my daily jaunts through the forest with my dog. Stay tuned for further info. I will be sure to post more about it when it is complete.

I'm off to work out the logistics of my next project. Hope you have a delightful day and have a chance to get outside and discover what exists before your very eyes. "When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change" (Christina Pratt).

Bicycle - a solo art exhibit by Angela Melanson

2011-05-24T13:02:00.001-03:00

Two more days until opening day of my solo art exhibit at Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada. I'm feeling good at this point, but still have a few things to finish up. If you are in the Wolfville area on Thursday May 26, 2011 please stop by and say hello at the opening reception 7 - 9pm. The show will be on exhibit until June 24th, 2011 so there's plenty of time to see it if you can't make it on opening night. I look forward to possibly seeing your there.

You can check out the link to Harvest Gallery for hours of operation, location and artwork in this exhibit by visiting:
www.harvestgallery.ca

On being an artist.....

2011-05-17T13:14:00.001-03:00

These past couple of months have kept me busy in the studio painting away for a couple of exhibits. It's sometimes a lonely journey as I spend hours and days working away without ever leaving my home or seeing anyone else - besides my furry friends. What does get me out though is any opportunity to put the brush down and experience the local art community. Lately our community has been putting on Making Art Mondays with the Alliance of Kings Artists. This is a great way to be introduced to a new medium in a local art studio which is part of the Acadia University Art Gallery. It's also a chance to meet new people and get to know each other through the experimentation of new mediums.

Another favourite thing to do is to go out and explore new galleries (both publicly and privately owned - commercial and non-commercial) and attend openings of some of the new galleries popping up in this area. It is the perfect opportunity to celebrate new work by artists that I know and to be introduced to the work and artists I have yet to meet. I always like to find out what inspires other artists and how they thrive in their own communities (be it locally, nationally or internationally). Having the opportunity to share ideas and stories with other artists promotes new ideas and collaborations that may have never happened if you're always working away in the studio by yourself.

It is this very exchange that promotes growth in artists' own work and provides the feeling of belonging to a community.

Through discussions, artists can also share information like the best places to have marketing material printed locally, new online art sales websites to show work to a broader audience, or new workshops being offered, etc. All of this helps to keep artists informed and inspired to go back into their own studios with fresh ideas, invigorated energy levels and a feeling of belonging to a community or connection to other people who share similar passions.

This past weekend I had the opportunity to meet a local artist by the name of Dick Vandereyk. He is a sculptor, carver and painter and has lived all over the world, learning new techniques, languages and ways of living as he travels the globe. I fell in love with the stories of his pieces immediately after seeing his work at the Evangeline Artist Cooperative Spring Show. Not only is he a highly talented artist, but also a true gentleman. I very much enjoyed meeting him and look forward to further art discussions in the future.

~ Wood sculptures by Dick Vandereyk.

Often times being an artist means making sacrifices.....but it is the community of artists and art events in the local area which keep many artists motivated, revived and inspired. Sometimes it is moments like these which make the sacrifices easier to deal with.

If you are an artist, what are some of the things that you do to keep you inspired, motivated, invigorated to move onward to your next creation? Do you surround yourself with other artists who share similar passions or encourage evolution in your own work?

I'm off to the studio to paint. Hope you all have a most creative day! :)

Forest Exploration with my dog

2011-05-10T14:49:00.000-03:00

Every day my dog and I go on a daily jaunt through the Acadian forest which surrounds our home. We listen to the bird songs, call of the owls and occasional coyotes while watching the various flora grow and fade away each season. It is on these daily jaunts where I figure out solutions to problems, discover something new in nature, work on getting over my fear of snakes and of course enjoy the incredible happiness of my dog. Her tail is like a butterfly that never stops moving - even if we've walked on the same trail 364 previous days throughout the year. She is an inspiration for my very being and teaches me to enjoy each and every day and the moment for what it is. She's even a muse for some of my artwork.

Spring Snake (harmless yet still sends my adrenalin a go-go). To get over this silly fear, I have decided to just get right in there and discover the beauty of snakes through a camera lens.

My pooch enjoying the ponds which have developed under the trees which were uprooted in the storm we had this past November.

One of the latest paintings I have created for an upcoming solo show at Harvest Gallery to be held at the end of May.

www.harvestgallery.ca

Solo Exhibit at Harvest Gallery

2011-04-19T22:38:00.001-03:00

One opening done, and now working on the next project - a solo exhibit to open at the end of May 2011 at Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. More details to follow at a later date. Until then, here's a little sample of what you will find at the exhibit (inspired by bicycles, tricycles and maybe even a unicycle).

Artist Collective SEVEN

2011-04-19T22:30:00.000-03:00

My artist collective SEVEN recently opened an exhibit at the Craig Gallery at Alderney Landing in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. We are all proud of our work that we are presenting for this show titled EXCHANGE/UDVEKSLING. If you have a chance to check out the show, it's up until May 1st, 2011. If you are unable to make it and would like to read what the arts report, Elissa Barnard, who writes for the Chronicle Herald (Nova Scotia's Newspaper) has to say, then here's your chance. *Enjoy
http://thechronicleherald.ca/ArtsLife/1238802.html

Spring has Sprung - finally!!!

2011-03-24T16:31:00.000-03:00

Since the official date of Spring has passed (March 21st to be exact), I can finally celebrate the fact that my favourite season is upon us. Yes, i'm being entirely optimistic as I look out of the back studio window and see a sea of white still covering the ground. We just need a couple of warm days for it to disappear. It certainly helped to open the front door yesterday morning to a cheerful greeting of a spring chorus line of birds chirping away with yet another glimpse of the future forecast. :)

I have been creating some needle felted floral pieces inspired by spring. There is something about the cooler colours combined with elements of warmer tones that really put a smile on my face. I hope you enjoy these too. :)

Exchange/Udveksling (Upcoming Exhibit)

2011-03-16T10:33:00.000-03:00

I would like to take this opportunity to invite you all to the latest exhibit by SEVEN (an art collective which I belong to). This exhibit is inspired by our last international exposition which took place in Denmark in the summer of 2010. From bicycles to architecture, food, pedestrians, streetscapes and lines - all of these provide much food for thought in terms of what we have absorbed and gleaned from one culture and have embraced overseas in our own setting. The exhibit spans a wide variety of mediums and details how each artist drew from their experience - their own sense of exchange.

Happy Winter 2011!!

2011-02-01T16:13:00.002-04:00

This winter we have had a ton of snow and are currently bracing for another storm as of this evening (another 30cm). There is nothing like appreciating all that white stuff by simply getting out there and enjoying every moment in it. My dog LOVES the snow and truly opens my eyes up to the many wonders of winter life. Every day we go out into the forest adorned in snowshoes or skis no matter what the temperature is. Such a great way to start of the day - fresh, crisp air and picturesque scenery. One of my favourite things to do is to follow the many snowshoe hare tracks that crisscross our well traversed paths. Hope you are enjoying winter as much as we are here at the home of Lala & Gleen!

Imprint of my snowshoes left on the deck during light snowfall. I adore my handmade snowshoes which are made of recycled materials and made in Newfoundland.

Snowshoe Hare tracks spotted during my daily jaunts through the Acadian Forest.

Time Flies

2010-10-23T21:25:00.010-03:00

Wow! What can I say except that time has flown by without me realizing that I need to spend time on my blog. It was a very busy summer and now fall continues with that trend. I am thankful for the many commissions that have come my way, and have also found time to play in a friends pottery studio quite recently. Thank you to those you believe in me and my creations :)

Although it has been a busy year, it has also been a challenging one. I was without a sewing machine to make my stitched creations for five months - yikes! Also, the recession certainly has had an impact on sales and new projects that I had hoped to go forth with. This time has however made me re-think some decisions and perhaps has even forced me to delve even deeper into the creative think tank. So, I guess it hasn't been all bad. :)

These days I have been taking lots of photographs of mushrooms that exist in the forest which surrounds my home. I have also been inspired by the film Exit Through the Gift Shop in that I am back to screenprinting using primitive methods which are much more environmentally friendly. I have also taken my designs into the woods and have left impressions on the trees which have fallen or will fall in the near future. It's a great way to add a bit more character to the forest which is full of mystery and whimsy. Through this I feel like I too am a bit of a streetscape artist although my vista is within the forest realms.

Life is truly grand with all of its' ebbs and flows. It is the journey of such experiences which allow us to learn, evolve and fulfill many creative ideas. Thank you world for that :)

International Art Exhibit in Denmark

2010-06-17T16:00:00.005-03:00

This upcoming August, I will exhibit my work in Denmark along side the artist collective SEVEN (of which I am a member). It has taken many hours, days and a couple of years from initial idea to confirmed gallery dates AND of course, to create the actual collection of artwork. You can follow our steps by visiting our artist collective blog www.sevenartisans.blogspot.com

I am thrilled to finally have completed my portion of the exhibit with just some final touches to prepare such as hanging wire, customs documents, etc. Lots of work still to be done, but we are all well on our way to the exhibit dates :)

Uncommon Commom Art Project 2010

2010-05-26T10:03:00.009-03:00

This is year 3 for the Uncommon Common Art Project which happens at this time of year in Kings County, Nova Scotia, Canada. I love that our community asks artists to create outdoor artwork along trails, gardens, highways and private properties. It's truly a wonderful surprise to come across one of these pieces haphazardly or to make a day seeking each piece out by following a map. For further info on this community artproject visit: http://web.me.com/tdrahos/UncommonCommonArt/10_7.html

Guatemala

2010-05-19T20:28:00.003-03:00

I recently returned from a trip to Guatemala with my family members. We traveled across a lot of the country hiking volcanoes, swimming in limestone pools, taking many forms of transportation (public & private buses, boats, tuktuks, chicken buses, taxis, etc), eating local Garifuna cuisine, swimming through caves, visiting Mayan communities and searching for monkeys in Tikal. It was a fun filled adventure. Guatemala is a country of many juxtapositions but one that if you ever have the chance to experience, leap at the opportunity.

You know it's Spring When....

2010-04-16T12:31:00.003-03:00

The Forsythia are finally in bloom and it's a great celebration of spring and the glorious colours to come. This time of year is one of my favourites for the very reason of peeking in the garden to see what is growing. The garlic is already 4" in height and i'm excited for the many lavender plants which will add a lovely colour and flavour to the homemade ice cream here at the home of Lala & Gleen.

I am so looking forward to getting outside and photographing the glorious flora and fauna found around my home......and for such elements to show up in my own painted and felted pieces.

Happy spring everyone!!! Get out there and enjoy the sunshine, the fresh air and all of the wonderful things spring has to offer :)

New Pieces...

2010-03-29T21:10:00.007-03:00

Thought i'd post a couple of pieces that I have been working on this winter....

First a triptych titled "Even Playing Field" (Acrylic, pastel and pencil on wood panel) Each panel is 8" x 8". The lower image is "Spring Chorus Line" inspired by the many sounds of the birds that came out to sing their songs during a few warm days this March. I used the same mediums to create my pieces. Spring Chorus Line is 20" x 20" on wood panel.

I'm getting ready to begin a medium switch in my studio - from painting to needle felting. This involves cleaning up the whole studio, and moving the new materials in. I will most likely be spending the next couple of weeks focused on creating pieces for galleries and upcoming shows (of which I will try to post at a later date). Thanks for looking :)

2010-02-10T16:13:00.005-04:00

Acrylic, Oil Pastel and Graphite Pencil

on wood panel (36"h x 48"w)

Birds of a Feather

2010-02-09T09:06:00.005-04:00

This winter, the paint is flying around the studio as I work on many different sized pieces. I am working on a large body of works (4' x 5') as well as smaller pieces (3' x 3'). I have lots of panels lined up (various sizes) and my hope is to create a series of works during the winter months so that I can concentrate on exhibits during the warmer months. So far, it really has been a perfect winter to be in the studio - the first winter where I feel like the ideas are flowing and the desire to create is strong.

Birds of a Feather

Acrylic, pastel, pencil and spray paint

on wood panel

3' x 3'

Latest Paintings (January 2010)

2010-01-29T16:34:00.006-04:00

I have recently created two paintings which will be on exhibit at the Wolfville Public Library for the whole month of February. If you are visiting or live in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada, please do stop by. Not only is this library housed in an old train station, but the staff are absolutely delightful!!

Both pieces are acrylic, oil pastel and graphite pencil on wood panel (3' x 3'). My work is an interactive display where viewers have the opportunity to win a wee prize by helping me create titles for the two pieces. The titles will be selected and prizes handed out at the end of February. Good luck!! :)

First Painting for 2010

2010-01-18T11:43:00.003-04:00

My latest painting is inspired by the happiness and joy that I feel each day - no matter the season, as I traverse through the Acadian Forest that surrounds my home. Birds, trees, flowers, sky, cloud formations and bespeckled ground of fungal growth - all contribute to my adventures each day while meandering through the forest with my dog.

This piece is titled Two Crows Joy (thanks Kim C. for the title) and is 24" x 48". Acrylic, oil pastel and pencil on canvas.

*Currently on exhibit at Acadia University Art Gallery until March 3, 2010. If you're in Wolfville stop by the gallery for this exhibit - a variety of mediums by a variety of artists. I think it's a fantastic show.

Happy 2010

2010-01-07T14:26:00.003-04:00

Happy 2010 to All!!!

I have been busy organizing my years' projects and will be posting more frequently with information and inspiration that keeps me moving forward, creatively speaking, on a day to day basis.

This past fall, we adopted a wonderful, high energy dog who requires lots of outdoor activities and adventures. As part of my daily rituals, I take Meeya out into the Acadian Forest which surrounds my home. Each daily walk provides me with a different perspective on life - what I see, hear and smell. Each of these senses propel my mind into imaging the magical woodland creatures that are perhaps watching us as we go about our walk. It is within this magical world that I draw much of my inspiration for my creations. One of my endeavours is to create a body of large works inspired by these very daily jaunts. I am so looking forward to this process and will be posting my inspirations, ideas and completed works as I go.

*The photo is of my shadow on the snow while snowshoeing on Dec 31st, 2009.

You're invited!!!!

2009-12-03T23:07:00.006-04:00

A N G E L A M E L A N S O N

V I S U A L A R T I S T

Until January 4
Designer Café, Kentville, Nova Scotia

Angela Melanson, like her art, is edgy urban chic firmly planted in 50 acres of enchanted woodland on Gaspereau Mountain near Wolfville. When visiting Angela, one can’t help but feel that unusual creatures, with mysterious tales, play in Angela’s forest, as much as they play through Angela’s imagination.

It is from her vantage point that Angela draws most of her inspiration – the native rabbits and birds, as well as her imagined creatures, keep her mind full of ideas with a longing to understand the relationship between humans, animals and the environment.

Angela uses awkward tools, fingers-painting, her left hand, and even closes her eyes to help keep her preconceived notions at bay while freely adding patterns and shapes to her work. The process is entirely organic and forces her to live in the moment. Angela then looks for clues as to where the painting should go next. She likens this to her childhood pleasure of lying on the grass, looking upwards to find creatures, objects and faces in the clouds.

Angela is a formally trained textile artist and self-taught painter. She recently traveled to New Mexico for a painting workshop with one of her favourite outsider artists. There, she learned various techniques which inspire her work and help push her beyond the boundaries of her formal training and her perceived ideas of traditional painting techniques. Angela utilizes her training in colour combinations and line work, often found in her textile pieces, and incorporates these elements into her painted creations. Angela has been able to bridge the gap between these various mediums by using similar stylistic expressions in both mediums - showcasing her own whimsical style.

The Designer Café offers the many artists in our region a relaxed venue to show their work outside of a gallery or formal exhibition. The Café shows a wide range of artworks from abstract to representational to book illustrations and outsider art.

Hours: Monday – Thursday 7am-5pm, Friday 7am-6pm, Saturday 8am-4pm

For more information, contact Deborah Nicholson at info@dnphotoworks.com or 902-582-7959. To contact the café directly, call 902-365-3322.

L & G Studio Muse #2

2009-11-04T22:13:00.002-04:00

Here at the studio of Lala & Gleen is a new four legged creature to keep us smiling, inspired and of course to pose for future art pieces. Our two furry friends like each other :)

Awakenings by SEVEN

2009-09-24T08:49:00.005-03:00

This past Saturday, September 19th an art group I am involved with (SEVEN) launched our new exhibit called Awakenings at Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. The show is an exciting melange of mixed mediums from fibre, silk fusion, weaving, poetry, painting, crocheting, and pounded/patinated copper.

This in one of my creations ~ acrylic, spray paint, oil pastel and graphite pencil on board (20" x 20").

Each member of SEVEN (seven women artists who work in various mediums) has interpreted the word Awakenings. If you have a chance to check out the show, please do. It will be on exhibit until October 19th. For those who cannot make it, you can follow along our facebook site by visiting:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Seven-a-group-of-one-poet-and-six-visual-artists/83098039404?ref=ts

Finally....

2009-08-30T20:53:00.002-03:00

I finally have a new website. I have been yearning for a new site in which I can update any time with any information. You can view it by going to http//:www.lalaandgleen.com.

If you have any suggestions or ideas regarding this site, please do let me know. I will be continuing to update it and improving upon it. Hope you enjoy looking. :)

Ladybug

2009-07-18T07:12:00.004-03:00

Ah....summertime. This time of year is truly wonderful with all of the splendid colours of flowers blooming, the sounds of birds chirping merrily all day long....and of course some of the bugs like ladybugs which are always fascinating to watch.

This one in particular was getting ready to take-off while I had my camera in my other hand.

Now to play in the gardens again to see what else I may find :)

Flora found at the home of Lala & Gleen

2009-06-14T19:08:00.005-03:00

I LOVE spring ~ watching the garden grow and the flora and fauna in the woodlands that surrounds my home. It happens every year....and every year I am amazed at the beauty and sheer capability of mother nature to show off the many colours, textures, smells and sounds!!! It's exciting really ~ especially if you just stop to take it all in :)

The glorious chives ~ one of the first things to flower in my herb garden. It's always so fun to go outside with scissors in hand and cut them so I can use them in a fresh spring salad!! Life is a glorious thing.

These are the beautiful wild orchids (or Ladyslippers as we call them in Nova Scotia) that I find as I walk through the woodland trails in June. They are everywhere and each one has its own unique markings. The flowers peek up from the ferns while walking or biking along the trails. They are stunning!!!

Uncommon Common ARt (Project #2)

2009-05-13T16:41:00.006-03:00

This sculptural tree bower was a collaboration with myself and my lovely neighbours. We created this piece around a cluster of trees already in existance which also had a little stump in the middle ~ perfect to stand on!!!

We started by wrapping the trees with chicken wire, and then used locally grown cut saplings to create a basket structure. We hand wove and tied beautifully coloured wools from a local fibre artist. We also added old man's beard, feathers and greenery to fill it out.

If you are in the Wolfville area (of Nova Scotia) and would like to see this in person, pick up a local map called Uncommon Common Art 2009. These maps will be ready and availble in June. Hope you have a chance to see what our Annapolis Valley artists have been up to with their art creations for public spaces. Enjoy*

Uncommon Common ARt

2009-05-09T19:03:00.006-03:00

"Uncommon Common Art is a comunity-based environmental art project in which artists are asked to create an original art piece in nature that in some way asks us to stop and pay attention. Whether on private or public property, all art locations are accessible to the public."

I LOVE this project!!! This is the second year for this project that takes place in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

I am working on collaborations with a number of friends, artists, and neighbours. It's truly an exciting way to create art with lots of creative minds by using what you have or can find in nature. The pieces I am collaborating on will feature as part of the bicycle trails beside my house. The trails are fun to bike and walk but by adding art with the already existing flora and fauna ~ wow, what a wonderful way to celebrate the world in which we live!!!! :)

Stay tuned to the many creations by various artists from this part of the world by visiting www.ValleyArts.ca. This project will be up and running by June.

*Enjoy

Lala & Gleen Facebook Fanpage

2009-04-30T18:17:00.003-03:00

If you're interested in my creations and would like to know where to find them, please join my Facebook Fanpage at:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lala-Gleen/53113346572?ref=ts.

Leave me a comment to let me know where to find you too especially if you also have a Facebook Fanpage or an Etsy site :)

Cheers for now,

Lala

Latest Painting

2009-04-30T17:47:00.004-03:00

My latest painting created for an exhibit at Acadia University Art Gallery. The exhibit is called Large/small and is created by Visual Arts Nova Scotia for the Regional Artists of the Annapolis Valley. This piece is 4' x 5' and was created using acrylic, pastel and pencil. The piece will be framed and set up for proper hanging. I am so looking forward to this exciting exhibit and to find out what all the other artists of the region have created!!!

To find out further info, go to the Facebook Page:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=96640885352&ref=mf

and

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wolfville-NS/Acadia-University-Art-Gallery/95064121286?ref=ts

Newest Paintings by Lala

2009-04-08T16:48:00.005-03:00

Since i've returned home from a very inspiring workshop in New Mexico, i've had the chance to experiment with the techniques i've learned and have actually created some new pieces. I am very excited about this new direction for my work. The process is such a refreshing change from what I have taught myself about painting and what I have read about other approaches or philosophies of painting. I truly love the organic nature of this process. Thanks Jesse for such a fantastic workshop!!

Night Sky 20" x 20" (Acrylic, Pastel and Charcoal on wood panel)

Dream Catcher 16" x 20" (Acrylic, Pastel & Charcoal on wood panel)

Featured Artist of the Month ~ Love, Me Boutique

2009-04-08T13:47:00.003-03:00

Just wanted to share with you a recent interview that Chara of Love, Me Boutique (in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada) did on me and my business (Lala & Gleen):

http://lovemeboutique.wordpress.com/artist-at-a-glance-october/

If you ever have a chance to visit this area, be sure to stop by the boutique to check out their fabulous hand-made and utterly creative pieces that they carry by Canadian artists. (www.lovemeboutique.ca)

Painting Workshop in New Mexico

2009-04-01T10:04:00.008-03:00

Just got back from my art trip to New Mexico and Texas. I attended a painting workshop with my all time favourite artist Jesse Reno ~ he rocks!!!! It's been one day since my arrival back home and i'm already in my studio painting a way. You can check out Jesse Reno's work by visiting www.jessereno.com. Not only is he an incredible artist but he incorporates his life philosophy to his style of painting. If you have a chance to take a workshop I would highly recommend it. His partner Lana (the far left) is also a highly talented artist and you can check out her creative line by visiting www.crudethings.com.

Here is a painting that is a work in progress ~ this is the piece I was working on during the workshop. I will post another photo when this one is complete.

Recycled Wool Bags by Lala and Gleen

2009-03-10T22:18:00.007-03:00

Bags by Lala & Gleen

Kris at Resweater has featured my felted wool bags on her blog for "Recycled Wool Purse Week". You absolutely have to check out her fabulous blog ~ so0o0o0o many ideas, amazing artists/artisans and craftspeople. You can check out her blog by visiting http://resweater.blogspot.com/. Thank you Kris!!

Another Day In The Forest

2009-03-10T22:03:00.004-03:00

Needle Felted & Stitched

Another Day in the Forest

21" x 21"

This piece is available at Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada. You can visit the gallery website: www.harvestgallery.ca.

2009-03-09T20:38:00.006-03:00

Check out SillyConDesigns ~ she has featured some of my needle felted creations on her blog!! SillyCon has been a true inspiration for me since I met her while working in the costume department of a Nova Scotian Theatre. She has such a colourful imagination and uses this to create many kinds of art ~ including the Art of Living. We also share stories of our Dutch Roots and birthday parades!!! SillyCon Rocks!!! You can also view her creations by visiting www.sillycondesigns.etsy.com.

~ Enjoy

http://sillycondesigns.blogspot.com/2009/03/needle-felt-love.html

Minou and Birdie

2009-02-24T21:20:00.004-04:00

This is a needle felted & stitched piece created for my friend Geela. She created my new Lala & Gleen logo for a piece inspired by her two chihuahuas. This was challenging but also really fun to create ~ especially as each dog has their own look, characteristics and whimsical nature!!!

The "tall blonde" recently had a role in the Space Buddies. How fun is that??

If you're interested in having a custom piece created for you, let me know and I would be happy to see what I can do.

8th Annual Acadia Art Show

2009-02-11T12:11:00.005-04:00

This piece was created specifically for an exhibit at the Acadia Universtiy Art Gallery. It is needle felted & stitched (using locally grown wool from my sheep farmer friends). The framed size is 21" x 21" and includes glass, archival mat, and white shadow box frame. Price $625

The 8th Annual Acadia Art Show is "an annual celebration of the visual creativity in our community".

If this piece interests you, please inquire at the Gallery by going to http://gallery.acadiau.ca/

Recycled Wool Animal Week at Resweater

2009-02-08T12:17:00.005-04:00

Check it out - Kris at Resweater has featured my FuNnY bUnNiEs on her blog!!!!! She has a great website and blog which feature sweaters to purchase and creations by various artists. Her blog is a fabulous resource for the craftster in all of us!!!! Thanks Kris.

http://resweater.blogspot.com/2009/02/recycled-wool-animal-week-lala-and.html

Sara Caracristi - A Talented Nova Scotian Artist

2009-01-19T11:10:00.001-04:00

I recently did a trade with an artist (who's work I have admired for a couple of years now). Her name is Sara Caracristi. She creates paintings which often depict angled views and "aerial" vantage points of people doing their everyday commutes and getting to point A to point B. Often these city dwellers are walking in crowds, are on a beach with umbrellas or simply strolling somewhere and by some means - by foot, by bicycle, etc.

Sara is an artist who resides in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. You can view her work at these galleries online or visit the galleries in person: Argyle Fine Art Gallery and Trinities Gallery.

The surface texture and sheen that Sara creates within each piece is also a technique which truly must be viewed in person. If you have the opportunity to see her work - it's a must!!!

L & G news for 2009

2009-01-13T10:29:00.001-04:00

Happy 2009 to everyone!!! After a fairly hectic holiday season, I have finally recovered and am now back in my studio (or outside snowshoeing with Gleen).

I will have new work up and coming in several galleries who represent me (and will post images and gallery coordinates at a later date). I will also have 2 pieces in the Acadia University Community Art Exhibit (January 16th, 2009).

This is looking like it will be another incredible year full of creativity, inspiration and many adventures....so I am hoping that you have a similar feeling!! All the best to a fun-filled winter season!!!!

Tea Cozy Washing Instructions

2008-12-07T13:27:00.000-04:00

Washing Instructions for Tea Cozies made by Lala and Gleen Productions:

Wash tea cozies by hand or washing machine using cold water. After washing, re-shape by hand and then lay flat to dry or hang by the loop at the top. When cozy is completely dry, you can give it a quick press (with steam) using your iron. Remove any pilled fibres by hand.

Ta-da.....you should be good to go and have a lovely, refreshened cozy ready to keep your tea warm again. Any questions? Please do not hesitate to contact me.

Canning Arts District Holiday Shopping Party

2008-12-05T12:12:00.000-04:00

The fabulous group of SEVEN women will be celebrating the holidays with a special show and sale of their own work. It will take place on December 14th, 2008 at the Ocean Spirit Dance Studio on Main Street in Canning from 10am - 4pm. Come on out and enjoy the many creative talented artists in the Canning Arts District while adding a bit of merriment to your holiday season!!

You can check out all examples of SEVEN's work by going to:

http://www.facebook.com/photo_search.php?oid=50940796186&view=user#/event.php?eid=50940796186

Blue Bird with Cosmic Sky

Needle Felted & Stitched

Includes mat, frame & glass.

10" x 10"

$195

By Angela Melanson

Stockings for Holiday Merriment!!

2008-12-03T11:51:00.000-04:00

"Stockings are hung by the chimney with care"

Lala has been busy in the studio creating these fun stockings out of recycled wool ~ recrafted to add a bit of merriment to your holiday season. Stop by the Wolfville Farmers' Market to take a peek!!

$35 each

This stocking has added trim of velvet ribbon and beads - i'm using up all the "bits and bobbles" I find in my studio to add an element of whimsy to these creations. Each one also has a bell on the tip of the toe.

~Enjoy!!

Nederland - Hunt for the Paddestoelen

2008-10-27T20:54:00.000-03:00

I was recently in the Netherlands and had several quests to complete while I was there. I was determined to find the gorgeous red coloured paddestoelen known to be houses for small blue creatures and other folkloric, gnome-like characters (Kabouters).

I was fortunate to find a patch of these mushrooms while strolling through a park in Tilburg, NL with my mother and Tante Gre (a smoking nun who is also an artist!!!).

I'm in LOVE with these.....and every kitschy thing they have made their way onto the surface of...whether it's textiles, ceramics, housewares, even furniture. I'm so0o0o0o0o inspired by the collective cheezyness....and know that they will make an appearance in my own art creations!!! Ah....the homeland...it always inspires me in many ways - the food, bicycles, my relatives, the lifestyle, vistas, and the many surprises....like camels hanging out in corn fields - who knew???

Gezelligheid (my favourite Dutch word)

Shop Therapy/Suzanne Robicheau

2008-10-16T10:25:00.000-03:00

Check out the following article about my tea cozies written by Suzanne Robicheau for the Chronicle Herald (Shop Therapy section).

http://thechronicleherald.ca/ArtsLife/1081707.html

Tea Cozy and French Press Cozy by Lala and Gleen

2008-09-17T14:45:00.001-03:00

Recycled Wool Tea Cozies and French Press Cozies are available at Hat en Kul in Wolfville, NS and also available at Love Me Boutique in Halifax, NS. Each one is one of a kind with its own unique colour combination and stitched motif.

Tea Cozies $40

French Press Cozies $32

Art Cards by Lala and Gleen

2008-09-11T15:27:00.001-03:00

Art Cards - these are images of my needle felted and painted pieces which have sold either in galleries, exhibits or art shows. They are printed on recycled paper, include an envelope and a protective sleeve. They are perfectly square and are 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" and include my name, medium and locale on the back. They retail for $5 and can be found at the following venues:

- Art Can Cafe & Gallery in Canning, NS

- Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, NS

- Hat en Kul in Wolfville, NS

- Gaspereau Fibre Shop in Gaspereau, NS

- Moorings Gallery in Mahone Bay, NS

- The Green Barn in Annapolis Royal, NS

*and of course the Wolfville Farmers' Market every Saturday.

If you're interested in purchasing any of these cards and cannot make it to the areas listed above, I would be delighted to send along info on my retail and wholesale prices along with a pdf of card images. www.lalaandgleen.com

Lala & Gleen Tea Cozies

2008-09-10T09:56:00.000-03:00

These tea cozies are made from recycled wool - recrafted to ensure your tea always stays hot!! Each cozy has it's own one of a kind stitched motif.

You can find these whimsical creations at:

Wolfville Farmers' Market

Hat en Kul, Main Street in Wolfville, NS

I also do custom orders, so if you have a tea pot that absolutely requires a colourful cozy, send me your dimensions along with some colour choices.

www.lalaandgleen.com

The studio muse at L & G

2008-09-10T09:47:00.000-03:00

This is Schminky - the crazy studio muse at Lala & Gleen. She likes to choose wool colours that suit her very mood, play with thread and of course amuse us all with her sleeping sounds!!! She has been the source of inspiration for a few paintings and needle felted pieces. Stay tuned as there will no doubt be more Schminky inspired pieces in the future!!

Abstract Expressions of My Everyday

2008-09-04T12:40:00.000-03:00

Painted wood blocks using acrylic and ink. These particular pieces are awaiting their resin finish which I apply to the top surface only. The sides and back are then painted black and have a hole in the back to hang the piece.

These are so0o0o0o0 much fun for me to create. They are inspired by my daily impressions of things I see or experience from my studio or even the feelings that I have at the time of painting.

They are generally 5" x 5" and retail for $60. I sell them at the Wolfville Farmers' Market.

Bicyclette Bags by Lala and Gleen

2008-09-04T11:44:00.000-03:00

These funky bags are made out of recycled wool and denim, and include a hand screen printed bicycle image along with stitched details. A great way to carry your essentials while traveling in style!

They are available at Moorings Gallery in Mahone Bay, NS and retail for $70. You can contact them at:

info@mooringsgallery.com or at 902.624.6208.

Lunenburg Folk Art Festival 2008

2008-08-05T11:59:00.000-03:00

This year's folk art festival was a delight..as it has been for many years now. It was the 20th anniversary of the festival which included an exhibit of some of the past exhibitors whom are no longer with us. It was wonderful to view their work, and to spend the day in such an electric environment with colourful, whimsical pieces, an incredibly funny and endearing auctioneer, and of course lining up for the show at 9:30am for doors that open at 12.

This year, I was lucky to acquire a piece by Murray Gallant of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I have admired his Shopping Bag Ladies for many years now....and finally found one in a delightful lime green dress! Murray Gallant's pieces are as whimsical as the artist himself!!!

Square Foot Show 2008, AWOL Gallery

2008-07-24T18:26:00.001-03:00

I will be showing 2 of my needle felted/stitched pieces at the upcoming Square Foot Show at AWOL gallery in Toronto.

If you're in the neighbourhood, or heck, just want to get out and enjoy a new experience and throw yourself into a very electric art scene, then show up at the gallery on Aug 16th at 7pm. The show runs until September 7th. Each piece of art is 12" x 12" (or a square foot) and will sell for $200. Warning....there are line ups to get into the show, so arrive early!!!!

Update on my Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit Experience

2008-07-24T18:14:00.001-03:00

This photo was taken while looking upward at the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit. The show was such an amazing experience, which truly surpassed any of my expectations, and a show which was comprised of highly diverse mediums, styles, talents and backgrounds. All of the artists which I met were very fine, and fun to talk to.

I was very much inspired by what I saw, and highly encouraged by those who entered my booth and commented on what was before them. My only wish, was that I had more time to prepare for the show in which to have had the opportunity to have more work available.

If you ever have the chance to check this show out....i'd say it's a must!!

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit 2008

2008-06-18T16:54:00.000-03:00

Join me and hundreds of other artists at the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit at Nathan Phillips Square on July 11th-13th, 2008.

I will have a delightful array of needle felted & stitched pieces

for show and sale. You can find me at booth #364. Drop by and say "hello" - I would love to meet you!!!

For more info you can check out the TOAE website at:

www.torontooutdoorart.org

Valley Arts See & Do Guide Map

2008-05-22T19:09:00.000-03:00

If you find yourself traveling through the Eastern part of Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada, be sure to pick up a map of local artists' studios, galleries and all around great places to visit. Become inspired, chat about art and discover why artists create the type of work they do, and perhaps why this part of the world is the place they decided to set up their creative endeavours.

The featured cover art also happens to be one of my very own creations, so of course I am delighted to have this special opportunity and also am very proud to be immersed in such a beautiful and creative part of Nova Scotia surrounded by many talented artists and many valued art patrons!!!!

My work can be found at http://www.lalaandgleen.com/ OR if you happen to be in the neighbourhood of Wolville, NS you check out a few of the fabulous places that carry my work:

Harvest Gallery - Main St., Wolfville

Hat en Kul - Main St., Wolfville

Gaspereau Fibre Shop - Gaspereau River Rd, Gaspereau

Al's Fireside Cafe - Canning, NS

Wolfville Farmers' Market - every Saturday from May until Dec (unless it's raining).

A Bicycle Built for You (paintings by Angela Melanson)

2008-04-30T17:05:00.001-03:00

For those of you who have yet to see the quirky creations of Angela Melanson, pop into the Designer Café on Main Street in Kentville to see what you’ve been missing. If you are familiar with the smiles that Angela’s artworks inspire, these new works are guaranteed to have you grinning from ear to ear. Enjoy! - Deborah

A textile designer by training, Angela has always loved to paint. Combine this medium with an adoration of Dutch city bicycles and all things eco-friendly… and ta-da!… a show based on the essence of the whimsical ride through colourful rural vistas. “My bike rides throughout the Annapolis Valley and the Netherlands are true inspirations for me. Hope you enjoy the show!”

Angela has training in textiles, costuming and fashion. Her work can be seen in various galleries and boutiques in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Boston.

Printmaker Bob Hainstock

2008-02-29T14:22:00.000-04:00

Harvest Gallery in Wolfville, NS recently had an opening called Press which featured the work of many of Nova Scotia's well known printmakers. One of the featured artists of this show is Bob Hainstock - a painter and printmaker who resides in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia.

During the gallery opening of Press, Bob demonstrated his press and how he creates Monoprints - a quick and intense style of printmaking. Very inspiring to finally see this incredibly talented artist at work!!!!

To view Bob's work you can check out his website at http://www.theprintmaker.ca/

Crazed FUnNy BuNniEs!!!!!!

2008-01-23T19:53:00.000-04:00

It's procrastination day today in Lala's studio!!! Instead of working on commissions, I decided to make some stuffed bunnies.....and it feels good. Got it all out of my system....and now I can concentrate on creating those divine pieces that my customers have patiently been waiting for.

These crazed creatures however, will make a presence at a local shop near YOU - so beware....heehee!!!!!

Article on Garnet McPhail by Elissa Barnard for the Chronicle Herald

2008-01-21T12:47:00.000-04:00

Folk artist McPhail known for roosters, gentle spirit
By ELISSA BARNARD
Arts Reporter
Wed. Jan 16 - 6:58 AM

Annapolis Valley folk artist Garnet McPhail, who died Sunday, was well known for his roosters, as well as other carved animals and figures. His work is in collections throughout Canada and the United States. (Audrey Sandford)
Garnet McPhail, part of Nova Scotia’s first wave of folk artists, loved to make art and meet people.
The artist, who died Sunday at the age of 81, was a regular at the Nova Scotia Folk Art Festival since it started in Lunenburg 20 years ago.
"He was just a real down-to-earth kind of guy," says festival co-founder David Stephens. "It wasn’t so much he was making money as he was making friends.
"He was really happy with what he was doing. I think he was surprised people would take an interest in his work."
McPhail’s work is in collections throughout Canada and the United States including the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. He was featured in the National Film Board documentary Folk Art Found Me and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s 1997 exhibit A Life of Its Own.
"He’s one of the first wave of folk artists, the people who were at the first festival like Sid Howard, Lorne Reid and David Stephens," says Audrey Sandford, owner of the Black Sheep Gallery in West Jeddore Village.
Born in the Magdelan Islands, McPhail worked as a farmer, a cook, a mason’s helper, a woodsman, a tower forest ranger and from 1978 to 1987 in custodial services at Acadia University. It was there he was inspired to carve an alligator, says Stephens, also a folk artist living in Sydney.
"I remember asking Garnet how he got into carving." At Acadia "he would mop the floors at night. He never looked up too often. Then one day he happened to look up from his work and noticed an alligator skeleton and a stuffed alligator in a display case.
"He was so intrigued by this alligator that he went to the library and looked up several books on alligators and then went home and carved his very first alligator."
Sandford loves McPhail’s roosters.
"He was best known for his roosters and I’m looking at two of them right now, very primitive," she said, in a phone interview from Toronto. "He was one of the more primitive Nova Scotia folk artists.
"He did wonderful art."
McPhail’s pieces, carved with a chainsaw and other tools and featuring found objects, included spotted dogs, life-sized figures and a horse and wagon with a small spotted dog sitting beside a man in the wagon. "At one point he did the Titanic and it was huge, he had it at his shop."
Sandford has exhibited McPhail’s work since she opened her summertime folk art gallery nine years ago. "He was just a very gentle man, a sweet man and I remember going up to visit with my son and his new wife and I introduced them and he gave them a rooster. That was Garnet. He was really sweet and generous and gentle."
This year the Nova Scotia Folk Art Festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary. "There are not too many of us left that came that first year," says Stephens, who compares McPhail’s work to that of the late Sid Howard, of Albert Bridge, Cape Breton.
"On the surface Garnet’s carvings were very basic — no subliminal messages — nothing too deep beneath the surface. However, for me I saw something different. I saw a sense of humanity, a love for nature and a sense of wonder. Garnet was exploring. He was making contact."
McPhail, who lived in Melanson, Kings County, is survived by his wife, two sons and three daughters.

Remembering Garnet McPhail

2008-01-21T09:40:00.000-04:00

Garnet McPhail was one of Nova Scotia's cherished Folk Artists. He was known for his whimsically carved creations - mostly animals. He was a kind soul, with a lot of character and charm. I once had the opportunity to visit him in his workshop, where he took me on a journey of each of his creations. I left his workshop that day with a piece of his delightful work....and a little bit of happiness. He has inspired myself, along with countless others to enjoy each day and to find happiness in everything that you do. Garnet, you and your whimsical creatures will be greatly missed!!!!

This is the handwriting of Garnet McPhail. He often included the date of when each piece was created.

Media Coverage of SEVEN

2008-01-04T10:17:00.000-04:00

Some of the media coverage our group SEVEN has received over the past month. This exerpt is taken from the website www.carrieanddanielle.com.

Friday Focus from Carrie & Danielle
Why Friday? Most of us have more mental space as the week winds down. Let this idea stir within you over the weekend and work it into your intention for the new week...
Word up, up and away…
In January ‘07, we offered a Friday Focus that encouraged you to pick a few words to signify your intentions for the New Year. Here’s an excerpt:
Every New Year we choose words as the theme or experience we want for that year….
THIS NEW WEEK: Choose your words for the year – one or two audio gems to plug into your heart as an added bass beat. Sometimes you need to claim your word like a brass ring of promise, other times it will float into your mind and feel just right when it gets there.

Some women artists in Halifax took that seed of inspiration and ran with it in a big way. They grew it into an art gallery show entitled Seven, in which each of them offered up their own words and artwork. Their words and phrases were: Speak, Divine Trash, Earthen and Urban: Sitting on the Fence, Coin, Passing, Serendipity, and Blue Moon.
They joined together for creative companionship throughout the year and witnessed the creation of: felted crones, silver crocheted hyperbolic spaces, hand-spun wool transformed into tapestries, copper inlaid coins, photographic moments made universal in grids, texture-rich canvases and poems. As they did so, they were further influenced and inspired by each other, so that the complete collection of works is intimately interconnected.
They produced 49 pieces of art. The national press took notice. For many of them, this was their first art show.

THIS WEEK, take your pick:
Determine your word(s) for 2008.
Symbolize your words in visual or audio form. This can be as simple as making a collage, downloading an image to your computer desktop, or creating a playlist on your iPod that reminds you of your 2008 aspirations. You could also collect meaningful objects and create an altar or a vignette on a shelf or mantle.
Form a creative companion group. Meet monthly to make art together.
Pick up a copy of Julia Cameron’s The Artist's Way, and put creative exploration at the top of your priority list.
Make a secret or well-announced plan to show off your creativity this year. This could be as simple as enlarging your best digital shots and giving them choice placement in your home. Or you could plan an art show — in a local gallery or a small café. You could do a performance of any sort – muster the courage to sing some Joni Mitchell at a summer campfire, grab the Karaoke mic and give ‘er all you’ve got, do a striptease for your honey, or invite your friends to your Tango recital.
So much can come of a word. Like … Creativity (noun): the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, relationships; to create meaningful new ideas and forms.

Seven - A Gallery Exhibit of Seven Women Artists Work

2007-11-09T20:13:00.000-04:00

Join me and six other artists for the opening of our exhibit entitled Seven at Argyle Gallery in Halifax, NS. Opening night is November 29th and the show will run for the whole month of December.

Valley Pumpkin Festival

2007-10-10T14:33:00.000-03:00

I decorated my pumpkin this year using paint and pastels in support of the Valley Pumpkin Festival. To find out more details and events on the pumpkin fest you can check out: http://www.valleypumpkinfest.ca/.

Hope your fall is full of fine harvest, incredible colour and delicious food grown by your local farmers.

I love Montreal!

2007-08-26T12:52:00.000-03:00

I just spent a week in Montreal - my favourite city in Canada!!! I love it!!! This city is so full of energy, life, delicious food, incredible style and most important humanity. There is an appreciation of all human beings. This city has such a great pace where people are happy to walk slowly and take in all of the wonderful aspects of life! If you've never been.....it's a must.

Ah......peaceful Nova Scotia!!!

2007-08-14T17:28:00.000-03:00

I attended a lovely wedding this weekend on Heckman's Island in Lunenburg County. What a beautiful part of the world!!! I couldn't resist a photo op of the freshly painted Marine Blue row boat waiting for someone to take it out!!! How poetic it was as it rested in the water, on a gorgeous sunshiney day with it's reflection to keep it company. Very peaceful!!!

Quilt and Friends

2007-08-09T09:53:00.001-03:00

Quilting is a Nova Scotian tradition upon which the quilter usually gathers leftover fabrics or pieces of recycled clothing to make a blanket for warmth and aesthetic values.

To carry on this tradition, my friends create a quilt as a gift for each of our friends' weddings. Each person creates a square inspired by the couple getting married. Often times, the couple no longer lives in the province but maintains a strong connection to the area. Some squares are created based specific areas of the province that hold a special meaning to the couple. It's a great way to carry on such a tradition as well as gathering friends together to work on a beautiful piece of art that is everlasting. The photo is of my friends on a very windy day at Kingsport. We were checking out all of our fine work!!!

Prince Charming

2007-07-29T19:24:00.000-03:00

Look at the Prince Charming that came to visit me in my strawberry patch today!!! heehee....so pretty!

Clouds at Lower Blomidon Beach, Nova Scotia

2007-07-28T22:20:00.000-03:00

Cloud formations are pretty incredible. I have a gazillion pictures of clouds on many different days of the year and during various weather patterns. Not sure what I will ever do with these photos....but I think I am completely obsessed about capturing them on camera. The light and formations amaze me every time. This photo was taken on a gorgeous sunny day at around 6:30pm during low tide. The beach is Lower Blomidon Beach in NS (which I just found out today that I have often mistakenly referred to it as Medford Beach).

Needle Felting #2

2007-07-26T13:52:00.001-03:00

Another felted bird piece.

Needle Felting

2007-07-26T13:09:00.000-03:00

Just thought I would post another image of what I have been up to lately. I have created a whole series of bird inspired pieces that are made from locally grown/dyed wool (from the Gaspereau Valley Fibre Shop, NS) that I have needle felted and then stitched. All pieces are then matted and framed. I will take these pieces with me to the Wolfville Farmer's Market this week. I'm having fun with these and hope to make new pieces each week for the collection.

Stripes and Dots

2007-07-24T16:03:00.000-03:00

What can I say.....I love stripes and dots!!! These two pieces are created by me. The hooked rug is made from wool yarn (and took over a year to create). The stool is somthing I recently found and decided to cover using recycled wool and of course the fun skull & crossbones patch. I love the juxtaposition of the bright colours combined with such a "dangerous" motif. I love colour!!!

Multi Medium

2007-07-24T15:57:00.000-03:00

I just finished this piece yesterday. It is a combination of needle felting, stitching and painting. I had fun with this one as I just let the canvas dictate what should happen next. It was also fun to stitch on top of a canvas that had just been painted. I think I will try more of this technique using different styles. I will be showing my work in a group exhibit this fall with six other artists (all artists of various mediums) at a gallery in Halifax. The group is called Seven and is made up of seven fabulously creative women!! I can't wait!!!

Oma in sewing school

2007-06-28T19:06:00.000-03:00

This is a photo of my Oma in Holland during the war. She was sent to sewing school and learned how to stitch clothing for a manufacturer. Throughout her years she has created many things because of these skills such as quilts, clothing for her children and grandchildren and even dabbled with crafts. She was quite an entrepreneur and very much an inspiration for me in terms of making a living from something that you love to do while putting smiles on the faces of those who see your work!!!! Thanks for that Oma!!!

HaPpY biRtHdAy OmA!!!!!!

2007-06-28T18:57:00.001-03:00

Happy Birthday Oma!!!!!! Today is the day that my crazy grandmother turns 80!!!!! She's a delightful character full of energy, strength, an amazing sense of humour, incredible stories and of course her dutch traditions. I hope to be able to share many more milestones with her during her lifetime!!!!

Lunenburg Bound

2007-06-07T11:41:00.000-03:00

Yesterday I took a wee road trip to Lunenburg, NS. It's a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Town full of brightly coloured houses, amazing art galleries, quirky folk art and delightful restaurants.

One of my favourite places to go to is Magnolia's Cafe. The food is great but it's more about the atmosphere and you're ususally lucky if you find an empty seat. This trip however, I discovered a new place called Salt Shaker Deli. I highly recommend it...definitely worth the trip in. I love their signage!!!!

If you find yourself in Lunenburg, check out Jenny Jib - a fabulous shop full of creative wares/wears......and now (YiPpEe) they are carrying my line of Lucy and Morbid Mona bags!!!!!

On my way out of town I stopped off at 2nd Pennisula....a beautiful and quiet part of the area with a white sand beach where one can sit in solitude and enjoy the vista and the fresh salty air!!! I would love to have a wee studio someday overlooking this vista...and it's close enough to town to peddle my wears/wares while biking in my Oma style bicycle. Ah.....to dream.

Dutch City Bicycle by Jorg&Olif

2007-05-28T22:20:00.000-03:00

My Dutchie friend in Vancouver recently informed me of a cool company in BC which now sells the Dutch City Bicycle. Check out their website at http://www.jorgandolif.com/. I would love to ride to the farm market on my bright orange city bike with a basket full of fresh tulips, gouda and a scrumptious baguette!!!

"The jorg&olif city bike is the real thing. When it comes to proven technology and design, this cherished Dutch classic takes the koek. It's sensible and stylish, and remains the most popular way to get around Holland. Inspired by classic design, but thoroughly in-tune with modern living, the jorg&olif city bike has been re-designed for North American cities (hint, we have hills here) without compromising the original European aesthetic. Whether it's a casual trip to the market, a smart downtown business meeting, or simply taking Spot to the park, the jorg&olif city bike looks great with just about anything."

The photo above is from the Jorg and Olif website. LOVE the red colour!!!!!

TuLiPs - hOw i LoVe ThEe!!!!!!

2007-05-28T22:11:00.001-03:00

Perhaps it's my dutch roots.....or perhaps my love of colour....but every year when the tulips finally make their way out of the ground I get really excited and inspired. This year in celebration of the lovely bulbs and of course my longing to go back to the Netherlands, I plan to hang a pair of crazy polka dotted wooden shoes filled with plants on my front door. This was a sight that I came across quite frequently on my travels to the liberal lands of the Dutchies!!

Surfing in Maui - YiPpEe!!!!!

2007-04-24T15:28:00.000-03:00

Heehee......it's Lala surfing in Maui. The guys at the Surf Shack guaranteed that I would be up on the board in a mere few minutes.....and they were right. I have always dreamed of being a surfer and if I had my life to live over this is what I always wanted to do - mind you....I imagined myself surfing through the amazing tubes of gargantuan waves!!! Anyway, I rode the waves a few times and can now say I "surfed". Maui was a part of the tail end of my fabulous trip with Gleen!!!!! I love adventure and trying out new things.

Cycling in New Mexico

2007-04-23T21:39:00.000-03:00

I just got back from an amazing trip with my partner and two of our friends. We cycled our way through some epic trail rides in five different states: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Nevada. We witnessed some pretty cool sunsets...met a few highly intriguing folks...dined at the supposed "best ofs" in a few quirky towns...pitched our tents atop mountain ranges with amazing vistas and even convinced our friend to go to a Japanese spa!!!

Self Portrait

2007-02-23T22:25:00.000-04:00

Heehee....this is a close up of my self portrait that will be on exhibit at the Ross Creek Centre of the Arts in Canning, NS. The exhibit is in celebration of Frida Kahlo's birthday and artists were asked to create their own self portraits in a non-traditional way. I am very much looking forward to seeing how each artist has chosen to express themselves through various mediums, styles, shapes and sizes. The show opens March 11th, 2007.

http://www.artscentre.ca/

Encaustic Sample

2007-01-25T19:54:00.000-04:00

This is my encaustic sample. I was playing around with colour and decided to etch in the saying "like a cheap hotel with no ballroom" in the wax. This was a saying that seemed to come up in conversation a couple of times during the weekend (all in reference to tight pants). Gotta love the juxtaposition of a cheesy saying combined with an old worn look of an outside building. Hmmm. This sample is definitely open to interpretation but also very much influenced by the weird, funky and bizarre combinations of new and old collage/graffitti that I admired in Kennsington Market.

Anyway, I would highly recommend experimenting with this technique if you have ever been intrigued by the meer thoughts of the encaustic process.

Kensington Market Graffitti

2007-01-21T11:16:00.000-04:00

While I was hanging out in Kensington Market in Toronto last week....I came across this collaged graffitti'd wall. I love the texture of old posters with stencilled bits on top.

The following day, I signed up for a crash course workshop with Gleen (my partenaire extaordinaire) and my very creative and multi-talented friend Janesse. We spent the afternoon learning all about the encaustic process which included elements of collage, painting, creating moulds, and layering wax to achieve a more 3D surface. Very fun indeed. We took the course at C1 artspace with Sandra Tarantino (artist/teacher). She's fabulous and very knowledgeable......and I highly recommend taking a class from her. You can check out the class schedule at: www.c1artspace.com

Remembering Helen Hill

2007-01-10T16:13:00.000-04:00

Today I was told the news of artist Helen Hill. It's a sad story. I'm not quite sure what to say except that I have only fond memories of her and Paul in Halifax. I never really knew them well, they just lived on the same block in the North End where I lived. Every morning we would greet each other as either Helen or Paul would walk their pot belly pig. Helen was most definitely a very caring, warm and kind character. I was happy to live in such a great neighbourhood with such creative and inspiring people!

I also had the pleasure of being in Halifax at the time the band Piggy was creating a buzz in the Halifax music scene. They would often be playing at the annual Earth Day Festival or other such venues as a donation to the cause and to spread the word on how we all as individuals in this society could work together to make the world a better place - environmentally, socially and politically. "My Pink Bike" remained a true musical favourite of mine for many years...and kept me thinking of home when I lived elsewhere.

Halifax greatly missed the inspiring couple and their little pig when they decided to venture elsewhere and to inspire others with such kindness, creativity and sheer passion for life!

Halifax will be remembering Helen Hill through a memorial gathering in the North End on January 13th. For further information, please check the link below.

http://helenhill.ckdu.ca/index.html

Craftzine

2007-01-05T18:37:00.000-04:00

I just received my premiere issue of this delightful little zine which is chaulk full of very fun, colourful and inspiring projects!! If you haven't seen or picked up a copy yet......run to the newstands or purchase online. You can find it at www.craftzine.com.

Perfect little zine for the quiet winter eves or when you want to adorn yourself or your abode with one.of.a.kind handmade wares/wears.

Paintings by Holly Carr

2006-12-04T12:27:00.000-04:00

A recently launched book "What is Pink?" is based on a poem by Christina G. Rossetti (written in nineteenth-century England) and illustrated by Nova Scotia's artist Holly Carr. Holly lives with her family in rural Nova Scotia and has exhibited her work nationally and internationally. Her botanical and satirical paintings on silk are full of lush, rich colours and much attention has been placed on patterns and details. To view more of her work, you can check out her website at: http://www.hollycarr.com/.

Holly is not only a delight as an artist, but her personality is as colourful and whimsical as her paintings. If you ever have the opportunity to meet her - especially during one of her live performances with various musicians, Women of Wolfville productions or when she was on tour with CBC's Vinyl Cafe hosted by Stuart McLean - you will surely understand what I mean.

Graffiti'd market stands

2006-11-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

I love graffiti - the colourful, whimsical and playful images that say nothing more than hey...maybe this is better than what already existed...and in essence does say something about the culture in which it is found. This photo is of a fruit stand in the market in Amsterdam. Most parked caravans displayed a wide range of artistic talent and colour palettes. This one was by far my favourite.

"As graffiti has begun to find its way from its original urban locations to the walls of galleries and museums, the question of vandalism and graffiti as an art form has provoked endless controversy, raising such questions as whether vandalism can be considered art or whether graffiti can be considered graffiti if they are made legally. The simplified imagery of graffiti has also become attractive to certain professional fine artists -- the work of the late Keith Haring in particular became "legitimized" as it moved from New York's subway walls to the walls of galleries and private collectors in the USA."

"Graffiti personalize de-personalized space, construct landscapes of identity, make public space into private space, and act as promoters of ethnic unity as well as diversity. Graffiti can be understood as concrete manifestations of personal and communal ideologies which are visually striking, insistent, and provokative; as such, they are worthy of the continued attention of art historians, social scientists, and policy makers alike." (from the Dictionary of Art)

Amsterdam

2006-09-28T10:44:00.000-03:00

Amsterdam is certainly a place to visit - although there are tons of tourists, there are also tons of fabulous cafes, shops, museums and vistas to take in.

"Amsterdam is a unique city that breathes freedom and tolerance. No one has to keep up appearances here, as everyone is equal. The spirit of Liberalism seems to have found a home here" (The Dutch, I Presume? by Martihn de Rooi)

Bicycles in Amsterdam

2006-09-28T10:29:00.000-03:00

I love the whole bicycle culture in Amsterdam - combine this with Graffiti and the city has a beautiful thing happening!! I spent a couple of weeks bicycling around some of the Netherlands and hope to return to see the rest. My trip was combined with visiting tons of relatives and of course boating around the canals. I can definitely see myself living in a house boat in Amsterdam or living in a very old house on the Maasdyks - a very beautiful countryside surrounded by stunning gardens, farm animals and a very relaxed way of living! Gezelligheid!

Folk Art by Nova Scotian artists

2006-08-07T22:13:00.000-03:00

These two wooden carvings are the new pieces that I have added to my folk art collection. The first is a crow carved by Brian Fancy. His biography is as follows: Brian Fancy was born in Caledonia, Nova Scotia moving to Liverpool at 14 or 15 years of age. He was a truck driver for 33 years. He started carving about 20 years ago. He carves: people, birds, beavers, bears, dogs, cats and other animals. His wife Carol, helps Brian by painting his birds and figures, he paints the animals. Brian has been featured in The Chronicle Herald in Halifax. His work can be found in galleries and craft stores in Lunenberg, Hubbards and Toronto. ( Borrowed from From the Heart Folk Art Gallery Website).

This next piece is by Craig Naugler, the son of Bradford Naugler. It's easy to see how he has been influenced and even inspired by his father and uncles - a true folk art family!

Naugler was born in 1973 in Bridgewater, N.S. He is is the son of renowned folk artist Bradford Naugler. Craig has worked as a cook and is presently a bread baker. He began carving about 10 years ago after watching his dad. Craig has created his own style of carving. He makes animals, birds, and people. He has sold his work to collectors in the U.S., Germany and Canada. Craig's work can be found in galleries in New York City, Montreal, Toronto and Lunenberg. (From the Heart Folk Art Gallery website)

Lala and Gleen

Nova Scotia Ice Wine Festival

Wintertime Artisan Show

Sneak Peek of Exhibit

Art for feast and forage under the HUNTER moon

Feast and Forage Under the Hunter Moon

September......sigh.....

New Pieces and upcoming Art show

Another person's treasure.....

Wild Orchids, frogs and spring...

Bicycle - a solo art exhibit by Angela Melanson

On being an artist.....

Forest Exploration with my dog

Solo Exhibit at Harvest Gallery

Artist Collective SEVEN

Spring has Sprung - finally!!!

Exchange/Udveksling (Upcoming Exhibit)

Happy Winter 2011!!

Time Flies

International Art Exhibit in Denmark

Uncommon Commom Art Project 2010

Guatemala

You know it's Spring When....

New Pieces...

Birds of a Feather

Latest Paintings (January 2010)

First Painting for 2010

Happy 2010

***You're invited!!!!***

L & G Studio Muse #2

Awakenings by SEVEN

Finally....

Ladybug

Flora found at the home of Lala & Gleen

Uncommon Common ARt (Project #2)

Uncommon Common ARt

Lala & Gleen Facebook Fanpage

Latest Painting

Newest Paintings by Lala

Featured Artist of the Month ~ Love, Me Boutique

Painting Workshop in New Mexico

Recycled Wool Bags by Lala and Gleen

Another Day In The Forest

Minou and Birdie

8th Annual Acadia Art Show

Recycled Wool Animal Week at Resweater

Sara Caracristi - A Talented Nova Scotian Artist

L & G news for 2009

Tea Cozy Washing Instructions

Canning Arts District Holiday Shopping Party

Stockings for Holiday Merriment!!

Nederland - Hunt for the Paddestoelen

Shop Therapy/Suzanne Robicheau

Tea Cozy and French Press Cozy by Lala and Gleen

Art Cards by Lala and Gleen

Lala & Gleen Tea Cozies

The studio muse at L & G

Abstract Expressions of My Everyday

Bicyclette Bags by Lala and Gleen

Lunenburg Folk Art Festival 2008

Square Foot Show 2008, AWOL Gallery

Update on my Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit Experience

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit 2008

Valley Arts See & Do Guide Map

A Bicycle Built for You (paintings by Angela Melanson)

Printmaker Bob Hainstock

Crazed FUnNy BuNniEs!!!!!!

Article on Garnet McPhail by Elissa Barnard for the Chronicle Herald

Remembering Garnet McPhail

Media Coverage of SEVEN

Seven - A Gallery Exhibit of Seven Women Artists Work

Valley Pumpkin Festival

I love Montreal!

Ah......peaceful Nova Scotia!!!

Quilt and Friends

Prince Charming

Clouds at Lower Blomidon Beach, Nova Scotia

Needle Felting #2

Needle Felting

Stripes and Dots

You're invited!!!!