My Art Bra for 2014

Making Art Bra's is fun and knowing the money is going to a good cause always makes it even that much better.

Personally, I am not real excited about the use of radiation and chemotherapy.  But, I have also never been diagnosed with an illness that would suggest those are my best options.

I do know, many women I know have been helped as a result of these treatments and the money raised from this event will go towards furthering the research and treatments for so many women.

The event is great.  The cause is a good one. The art you will find will stir the imagination.  And, it really is just fun.

I was considering making a candle holder out of this and changed my mind when I took this top down photo.  I love the way it looks just like it is so why change a good thing.  I actually made this for another event and the winner never picked it up (her loss right?).  So, I will be making a few adjustments and entering it this year.

Mark your calendars.  Save a little money to buy something cool.  Think about donating an "Art Bra" yourself.  That term is very open to interpretation by the artist.

Pat Deere
Make it a fabulous day!

Link:  Art Bra Lenawee

Another "Art Bra" from a previous event...

I don't remember what year I made this one but it was fun.

I think I like it because it could be hung but doesn't necessarily look like a bra, unless you are at an event and know it is supposed to resemble one.

This was made with two melted glass baby food jars.  The red flower was given to me by a friend.  Sorry, I don't remember who it was but people are often giving me glass objects.

I love the little wings under the rose because I bought them from a man who would recycle old car parts.  He had all kinds of molds that he would make little objects with.  That was YEARS ago.  I still have quite a few of them.  They don't solder in easily and have to be wrapped in foil to make them work but I love them.

And the crystal at the top was intended to be hung.  Over time, the top broke and there was no longer a hole to hang it with.  So, with a bunch of misfit pieces, one of my favorite art bras was born.

This is what I meant when I said the Art Bra Class I will hold for the next 3 Thursdays would be kind of a free for all.  Whatever I have in my studio, mostly whatever, would be open for use by students.  And, almost everything would be included in the class.  Of course, I have to have some exceptions.

Thursday, 6pm-9pm, or whatever time you have.  Would be great to get something going!

Pat Deere

Art Bra Class - Let's Get Started This Week

Glass stringer is like using colored pieces of glass spaghetti.  Usually it is fused into glass that has the same COE (coefficiency of expansion), but maybe you will come up with another idea for it's use.

I decided we will do this class on Thursday evenings.  If anybody is available this week, let's get started.  If you want to come next week, that's ok too.  But, we will have the last class January 30 because the art bras have to be submitted by February 3rd.

I am excited about this class because I will open up lots of stuff in my studio for your use.  You know we collect lots of things as artists and keep them forever.  I've got metal scraps, old canvases, pastel paints, acrylic paints, mosaic glass pieces... and on and on and on.

My studio will be open on Thursdays from 6pm-9pm.  The class will be $35 for 3 hours, or $30 if you can only make it for 2 hours.  Most materials/kiln time will be included unless you would like to do something more than what I intend.  Details will be talked about in class, or call me ahead of time.  Kids are welcome if they come with you for $10 more per class.

Each day I will show different techniques.  No particular schedule - just whatever seems to be of interest to those in class.  Maybe I'll bring out the torch and create some beads.  Maybe I will solder,  Maybe we will cover mosaic techniques.

Bring your ideas and your questions and that is what will drive this class.  I can't wait.  Let's see what we can come up with.  In fact, this could be a group art bra, or you can make your own.  What are you waiting for, let's get started!

Pat Deere 
Links:  Art Bra Auction Info

Strength Courage and Wisdom

Ok.  This is it.  I was given a mesh mask that was my husbands stepmothers.  Some of you recognized it as a radiation mask.  She gave me the mask well over a year ago and asked me to do something with it.  It took me a while to figure out the best approach.


Because it is flimsy, using glass, the medium I most often use wasn't an option.  I wanted the mesh of the mask to show through and with glass, I would have had to solidify the mold which would have hidden the mesh.

 

I considered painting, but that would not have done what I envisioned either.

 

Finally, I came upon a bunch of beads used on a window display when I had a studio downtown Adrian.  As artists, we keep everything.  I guess there was a reason I never gave these beads away.  We also don't throw anything out.

 

Little by little the mask came to life.  If you ever put one on, it is very confining.  It is easy to imagine what it must feel like when your face is locked into place with this mask during treatments.  I wanted it to be something fun, bright, colorful and inspiring.

 

The lettered beads read, Strength * Courage * Wisdom.  Enough said.

This made me think... there is an Art Bra Auction in Tecumseh.  Anybody up for an art bra party in my studio?  We have to work fast.  Entries are due February 3rd.  Watch this blog for more info on dates and times.

And... do me a favor.  Go hug a survivor!

Pat Deere

Art Bra Auction Info

Some People Are Amazing

Some people truly are amazing.  This mask belongs to one of those people. 

Anybody know what it is?

I will share the story down the road but for now just know this is my latest project.  I was given this mask with a request to make it into something special.  I have had it for - maybe a year or more.  I couldn't decide what medium to use.

Glass could be difficult and I didn't want to hide the mesh it is made up of.  Considered painting but that wasn't going to work out the way I envisioned either.  So, it is in the process now and I don't want to post pictures until I am done.

I would like to see some of your favorite masks and the stories behind them though.  Feel free to share and I will post them if I can!

Feel free to send them to me via this blog or via my Facebook page.  While there, be sure to "LIKE" the page to keep up on classes, events, and projects!  

Pat Deere

Holiday Market Today from 5-8pm

Hathaway House from 5-8pm.  Create customized greeting cards like this one, using your artwork, your photos, or professionally taken photos of your family or employees.

Click this link for more info:  Hathaway House, Holiday Market

This card was created using a combination of tools.  The frame is a stock item, the photo inside are ornaments hand blown by myself to make a truly unique Christmas card.  As a Dr. Seuss fan, I love the variety of colors and textures in these ornaments.

Would your original artwork make a wonderful card this year?  Let me help you.  Stop by the Holiday Market or give me a call!

Pat Deere

Ornaments are ready to claim! The addiction has begun.

Ornaments from my previous Elementary Glass Blown Ornament class are pictured below.  Most of the students wanted to get together for another big blow!  This time we will be using ornaments that are 1.5mm thick, and 40mm in diameter which will give them an opportunity to be a little more creative and have ornaments that are not quite as susceptible to breakage.  Although, in a beginning class, we spend a lot of time getting used to the feel of the glass.  How long does it take to heat and cool?  How strong should my breath be?  Am I continuously spinning my glass as I heat and blow the ornament?  How much frit or stringer is in the bulb and how does that effect the ornament?

Students should take a look at what ornaments are theirs and let me know.  I would also be interested in the best date to get together for another "blow off" week-end.  We talked about buying a box of 100 ornaments and splitting them, students purchasing a bottle of MAPP glass, and continuing to feed our addiction!

If you weren't in on the first class, let me know if you would like to join the next group!

Pat Deere

What a great addition! Hoola

Today I met with Nancy Snider, a Design Rep for Hoola.  I am so excited because in my blown glass ornament class, we will briefly touch on an upcoming bead making class I will be offering.

In the past, the jewelry findings I carried were not great quality but it did provide a vehicle for students to show their beads.  Nancy has the most awesome assortment of earrings and necklaces in sterling silver and a wide variety of shapes and sizes she offers through Hoola.  She is leaving some samples with me for students to take a look at and think about how the hand made glass beads would look combined with it.  Or, you can take a flyer home with you, order online directly from her, etc.  I know the jewelry really sparked my imagination and I hope it does yours too.  If all goes well, she may even be available to answer questions.

Working with other people is a benefit I plan to take advantage of more often.  If they can provide a better quality product for you than I can, it just makes sense to let you take a look and make the decision for yourself.  And, the prices are so affordable.  Can't wait to hear what you think.

Links:
Nancy Snider, Hoola
Pictures In Glass, Classes

Pat Deere

I got a little excited opening a box of Hot Head Torches

Getting ready for classes this week-end got a little nerve racking when the power went out... and we were told it may come back on by 11pm Saturday.

Say it ain't so!  Class begins at 9am Saturday morning.  I warned my students that class could go on, but we might not have bathroom facilities.  Not a pretty option but they seemed to be willing.

Then the box of supplies came and and several of these shiny new Hot Head torches were inside along with other supplies needed.  And, when I woke up at 3am this morning and couldn't go back to sleep, I looked outside and what did I see:

It might not look like much to you but seeing my neighbors yard light on in the distance let me know our power was back on.  All is well in the land of glass... at least in the land of glass PLDeere Style!

Looking forward to what the students will bring to the table this Saturday and Sunday.  There are still a few slots open if you haven't already signed up.

I have also been considering doing my classes via the web for those who can't come in person.  Would there be any interest in that?  Google+ has a nice option that could make it happen.

Pat Deere

It sure was fun playing today!

In preparation for my upcoming classes where we will be making blown glass ornaments using Glaskolben tubes and 90coe frit, today was a fun filled day creating. 

I was also playing around with creating a customized greeting card using a photo from some of the ornaments I was blowing this afternoon.

We will be doing this at the end of class, time permitting.  What a great way to keep in touch with family and friends this holiday season.  Blow a few glass ornaments, photograph them, and show off your artwork in your customized cards this year!  Guaranteed, nobody else will send one just like yours.

If you haven't already signed up for class, I still have a few spots available on Sunday, the 24th!

Pat Deere

JUST ADDED ANOTHER ORNAMENT CLASS

Sunday, November 24th
1pm-3pm

All of the details on the last post apply to the class on Sunday - with the exception of the date and time.

Frit, glass powder, is what we will be using to give color to your ornaments.  The more I think about these classes, the more excited I get.

You are in for a ride if you are signed up... if you are not signed up yet, you might want to do it soon.  Take a look at the previous blog post for information on cost, what to bring, what is included, and what you might want to purchase ahead of time if you want your own torch.

Call or email me if you want to be added to the class!

Pat Deere

CLASSES BEGINNING AGAIN!

Blown Glass Ornament Classes 
Saturday November 23, 9am-11am

Want a preview?  Watch this YouTube video (by Delphi) or one of the others on this page to give you an idea of what to expect.  I can't wait to see you if you are already signed up.  I can't wait to meet you if you have not ever taken a class yet.

This is an exciting introductory class that will give you the chance to create at least two ornaments.  If time permits and you would like to create others, you can purchase the necessary tubes/supplies needed.
Cost:  $30
Class Size:  9 maximum

Included:  2 Glaskolben Cylinders, Frit, MAPP Gas
Shared Equipment:  Hot Head Torch, Safety Glasses, Hangers, Fiber Blanket


Options:  Purchasing equipment ahead of time is possible if you contact the studio with enough time for supplies to be purchased and shipped prior to scheduled class time.  Another option, if you love what you made during class and want to continue, you can order supplies after class at a 10% discount and pick it up at the studio after shipping.

In this class I will have 3 torches set up for sharing purposes.  Unless you purchase your own equipment, you will be sharing with up to 3 people at a torch.  This will give you enough flame time to create the two ornaments that will be provided with class.

Remember - we are working with flames.  Keep your hair tied back or bring a bandana or hat for your hair, wear cotton clothes and shoes (not sandals), glasses or safety glasses (for use when observing).

I am super excited to be teaching this classes and reconnecting with students.  It has been a while and I truly miss the student/teacher interaction.

BONUS:  Want a really unique way to use your artwork on customized gifts or Christmas cards?  At the end of class, you will be given an opportunity to create a card with the artwork you just created, or send one at a later date if time does not permit after class.

Wait till you see the options!

Pat Deere

Residual Income With Art?

I have recently added another aspect of my business, which I have talked about before but would like to repeat.

Sometimes people complain about the economy causing problems for them, and they may be real complaints.  I believe we always have a choice to make changes and that is what I have done.

What you see here is a photo of a greeting card I created using my glasswork as the cover art.  What is unique about this card is, it also comes with an opportunity to create residual income.  Not lineal income, but residual income.  That is not something that was available to me in the past.

Traditionally in the art world, once you create a piece of art, you get paid, end of story.  With residual income, I can get paid continuously for the efforts I put in the previous day.  If you are a Robert Kyosaki fan, and have read, "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" you will know what I am talking about.

If you are an artist, and you create cards, calendars, or other products using your art, I would love to share with you how I am able to do this.  I still love my glass art, but I also love sharing this idea with fellow artists.  Whenever we can help each other... that is a good day.

Pat Deere

MY AMBER GLASS IS ON THE SALE BLOCK

I have had this wonderful little stained glass piece for a long time. It is made with an amber German New Antique Glass, Uroboros Fibroid Glass border, and a bevel cluster in the middle. 

The color in it is wonderful and the bevels, when put in a sunny window, give that wonderful rainbow effect we expect to get from cut glass.

After my sale, I took many pieces to the consignment shop in Tecumseh were you can find it now.  At least, I saw it in the front window the last time I drove by.  But, you would have to check with them to see if it is still available. 

This is their link:  What A Find, Consign.  You can click on the link to their new items and find this if it hasn't yet been sold!

Pat Deere

Not my work but it is for sale!

UPDATE:  THIS PIECE IS SOLD! AND TO A WONDERFUL PERSON WHO BOUGHT SEVERAL OTHER ITEMS AS WELL.  MORE POSTS OF WHAT IS AVAILABLE CAN BE SEEN THOUGH!
 
This is a glass panel with a lot of beautiful color.  It was brought in by a customer over 5 years ago and she never came back for it and I can't get a hold of her.  She told me she purchased it at DuMouchelles in Detroit, brought it home, and her dog jumped on it.  So I had to make a repair or two to it.

If I don't sell it soon, I think I will be taking it to a local consignment shop. 

Pretty glass!

Pat Deere

SOLD - Update

Garden Chapels - Gone
Metal Frames - Gone
Wine Cabinet Glass - Gone
Many Suncatchers - Gone
Round Vase - Gone
Blue Barn Oval - Gone
Hutch -Gone
David's Rose Garden Piece - Gone
Self Portrait Glass - Gone
Night Light Boxes - Only a couple left
Scooter - Gone
Blue Vase - Gone
Mosaic Tray - Gone
Distressed Window Box - Gone

What's left?  Lots of stuff but I am selling.  Just added Tonka Trucks, Glass Jewelry, loft bed set, and more.

Pat Deere

Recycled Church Glass Cross - In The Sale Tent

I absolutely love this cross.  The glass came from a church in Adrian that a wrecking ball was about to demolish (or the story goes from the person who gave me a box of treasured glass pieces from that church).

Because I can't see beautiful glass go to waste, I have made many crosses of various sizes and shapes using the painted glass pieces.  This one is unusual because every piece of glass in it has been recycled from that church.

I have an old window in my sale that will stay in the sale until Saturday.  If it doesn't sell, I will be dismantling it and turning into similar pieces like the one shown here.  It takes up less space in a box than it does in a frame.


Pat Deere

Detroit Monopoly - You won't find another one like it!

The story behind this is kind of interesting.  I was contacted by a suburban Detroit city to create a piece of art from a steel door at a KMart store that had closed.  Cool!  I can do that.

So, I went to work and had my son Travis grind off all the old paint, I welded it into the shape of a table, and my son Matthew helped with the making of the money and the mosaic top.

When I called to deliver the door, I was told by the representative of the event, "Sorry.  We changed our minds on this project for the time being."

I am thinking, "Do you realize how much time we have invested in this project?".  But, it didn't matter much to the person on the other end of the phone.  In fact, I think she was a little overwhelmed herself.  So, since 2009 I have had this beautiful mosaic table in my studio covered up to keep it from getting ruined.

The properties are all Detroit:  GM, Ford, Chrysler, The People Mover, Renaissance Center, Hudsons... The property buildings are glass gems/glass globs.  And the money was all custom made as well.   Guaranteed to be one of a kind.

Right now it is in my sale.  But, rumor has it, a local Detroit reality show may be interested in selling it in their shop!  Time will tell.  It was nice to uncover it and see once again what it looked like!

Pat Deere

Garden Art - Yep, it's on sale too!

 So... I love these copper and glass pieces.  At one time I thought I would take these to a whole new level.  Not.  But I do have few pieces to sell.  Love the colors in this one.  The yellow rondel on the left is actually a pressed bird.

Some mini bird baths...

And the Garden Chapels.  I always loved walking into churches when I was younger and the doors were always open.  Later on in life, you were lucky to find an open church if a service was not in the process.  So, my garden chapel reads:  Garden Chapel, Always Open.  There was a really cool outdoor chapel along the Au Sable River around Grayling.  If you are kayaking or canoeing, you simply stop your boat and stay for a while.  There were window openings but no glass, seats, and open air.  Beautiful.

And for my mannequin.  Is it time to get rid of her.  I'm not quite sure.  I guess if I got the right offer I would let her go.  The dress is mine though.

 And - when you drink out of a glass at a party, how do you know which one is yours?  You look for the right color of lipstick?   Ewwww.  These glasses will let you know which one is yours by the color of the flameworked flower.  Just a little more desirable in my opinion.

 More garden art, bird cages, mosaic.  If you come by, I'll tell you the story of the bird cage.  Too long to go into here!

 Pat Deere

I know it's not glass, but it will be for sale!

 Every picture tells a story...

This wrought iron was a find when I had my studio on Maumee Street in Adrian.  Loved the studio.  I was only there a year before a fire destroyed the property and I moved to the location I am in today.  These wrought iron pieces have been around to many art shows over the years.  I used it for my display for many years before I purchased the set up I have now.

OHHHHH.  The train.  I found this at an antique store.  I have children.  All boys.  They used this as a toy box, or a train if they threw the toys out.  It rolls and has such great memories.

The third photo is my sons fishing shanty.  He went to school for 4 years in the U.P. and got a lot of use out of it.  Now that he is in school for another 4 years and not up north any more, he feels the need to let it go.

But, the tub in front of it.  OMG.  My husband tells me he carried it down 2 flights of stairs 25 years ago.  Time to let it go I think.  It does need refinishing and a couple of legs.

 And finally, this wooden furniture belonged to my husbands, cousins, grandmother.  She used it for a long time and so did I.  It needs some TLC but is kind of cute.

Bring me some offers this week!  Would love to see my stuff become your treasure.

Pat Deere