The Art Abandonment Project: Create and Share Random Acts of Art

Good Morning,

Today we're going to do something a little different. Instead of sharing five items, artists can share their items, Guerrilla style.

I found this in my my Blog Feed, originally posted by The Brooklyn Bead Goddess, I wanted to share it with you as well, and perhaps inspire fellow artists to try it out.

You may also join a group on Facebook, link provided, to share your adventure if you would like.

The book is titled and may be found on Amazon:

The Art Abandonment Project:
Create and Share Random Acts of Art
By Michael deMeng and Andrea Matus deMeng

1. All you have to do is make a piece of art. (as simple or as elegant as you like) 

2. Write a little note on it explaining that it is a gift
Also mention that if the finder would like to share info about its fate they can contact you directly i.e. email. Then you can share the info with us if you are so inclined. Its not a bad idea to leave you're web address contact info…you never know…you might have created a new patron. 

3. Photograph what you're leaving behind 

4. Then leave it…walk away…run…try not to get caught. 

Then on Facebook share the location and photo of your gift with the rest of us. Here's the group address: http://www.facebook.com/groups/ArtAbandonment/
 
Keep your fingers crossed that someone lets us know what became of it. I doubt that everyone will take the time to inform the group. A few artists have already been contacted by the "finders".

The basic idea of this Facebook group is simple:

1. Create a piece of art
2. Photograph the art…preferably in the location it will be left.
3. (Optional) Leave a contact tag, so that the “finder” can get in touch with the “abandoneer” if they choose to..
4. Post the photograph on the Art Abandonment Facebook Group
5. Wait.  With any luck the “finder” will make contact.
6. If contacted by the “finders,” post the response on the Art Abandonment group page
7. Repeat.

I should mention that I do not belong to the facebook group, and do not intend to join. I thought this was a wonderful way to either promote yourself, or do something fun and different and bring a little joy to another.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Feartured Artist: Handmade Artists Site

Good Morning,

Today we the featured artists is more of an entity than a person, but of course we have a couple of those as well.

I have talked about Handmade Artists site, the online Selling / Shoping site for all things handmade, and all the wonderful things you can do at the site.  Open a shop, read their blog, do a little window shopping, check out the curated Highlights by artists, or hang out with other artistic and like-minded people on the forums.

You can find these neat things by clicking any of the links on the sidebar menu or at the bottom of this post.

You can also find them posting and writing articles for It's Better Handmade.

Besides running the site, Kimberley and Andrew are no strangers to making art, as well supporting other artists and their wares.

Their Shops include:

Silver Tails Sterling Wrapped Pendant W005

The frosted white treasure from the sea has been hand wrapped in stunning sterling silver to create a one of a kind pendant.
This pendant measures 1 3/4 inches (4.5 cm) long and 1 1/2 inches (3.5 cm) at its widest point.  This necklace comes ready to wear on an 18 inch sterling silver chain held secure with a silver spring clasp.
What is sea glass?  Sea glass or beach glass is is old and broken glass that was long ago tossed into the sea.  Over time the salt water, waves and sand softened and frosted the glass to be brought back to the shore to be found and recreated into stunning jewelry.  Each piece is absolutely unique! 

Braided European 4 and 1 Bracelet

This piece weighs in at around 3 ounces and is braided using a European 4 and 1 pattern. It is made using 3 metals; sterling silver, copper, and bronze; creating a very intricate pattern. The bracelet measures 7.5 inches long  and about 1 inch wide and weighs in at over 3 ounces.  The braids are held secure with a sterling silver slide clasp. This piece is really a show stopper and can be made in a variety of metals.

 Where this dynamic duo finds the time for all of it, I just don't know.  Kimberley wrangles house, husband and sons and her art all at the same time, Andrew works outside the site, as well as creating rings, and weaving them for their wonderful chainmaille items. 

Makin The Best of It

Chainmaille by MBOI

Handmade Artists Blog

 Stop by and see what else they have on offer.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Fun Art and Other Events in Boise, ID 4-11-13-2014

Good Morning,

Spring has sprung here in Boise and the populace has decided it is time for some fun and recreational activity. Whether you want to go and enjoy the weather or find something crafty to do have a look at what's happening.


This evening:

Sip Wine & Paint a 'Mod Martini' 04.11.2014
7-9PM My Masterpiece Parties 208-938-1370 http://bit.ly/1d5SbTk The sip wine and paint concept has come to Eagle! No experience needed at all. We're about having a fun time out! We'll show you step-by-step how to paint 'Mod Martini'. We provide everything you need to create your painting, you just bring any refreshments (even beer or wine for the over 21 crowd) you'd like to enjoy. Reserve online to guarantee your seat. We schedule our unique social painting classes throughout the month. Check our calendar for other dates. MyMasterpieceParties.com Up for some nostalgia Grrl style?  Check out the all female AC/DC cover band "Hell's Belles" tonight Hell's Belles 04.11.2014 8:30 pm The Knitting Factory (416 9th St., Boise) All-female AC/DC tribute $13 TicketWeb  No?  How about a little bit of culture? Ballet Idaho presents Alice in Wonderland "Alice in Wonderland" 04.11.2014 - 04.12.2014 See Description Morrison Center, 2201 Cesar Chavez Ln 426-1110 Ballet Idaho. Season closes with the whimsical tale, choreographed by ballet master Alex Ossadnik. 8 pm April 11, and 2 and 8 pm, April 12. $38, $43 AND $58.BSU students receive a 50% discount; faculty and staff receive a 25% discount. balletidaho.org And for those of you that have little one's Easter is almost here and there is a cool event at the Zoo tomorrow. Zoo Boise - Easter "EGG"stravaganza 04.12.2014 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoo Boise 208-608-7740 http://www.zooboise.org Get a jump start on spring at Easter EGGstravaganza. Join the Easter Bunny for fun activities including Egg Scrambles, photo ops, face painting, Easter Egg toss, animal enrichment activities and, of course, the zoo. Last admission at 4:30pm.

Introduction To The Craft Star

Hello,

The blog has been on hiatus for a while, but we are back posting and sharing the latest creations, fashion finds and events.

This morning I would like to introduce a new way to shop or sell on line.  Hand made or vintage items are welcome here, along with supplies and other neat ways to shop the selections avaiable from the individual stores hosted by the site:

The CraftStar

  
Let's start by having a look at the Greeting Page

 Here you see the menu bar, at top left, as well as a convenient block of share buttons, including google +, twitter, and Facebook to the right.

Login - we'll get to that later.

Here is a neat way to shop with them, no logging in, no remembering a password, just press play on the video and watch an amazing selection of items roll by.  This particular feature video is called "Arm Candy" and features wonderful bracelets from different shops on the site.

Like what you see?  You may also click on individual photos below, and be taken to the item itself for purchase.

Here is the video (from you tube) shared below.  The Alchemist Vessel is also pleased to have the  Sea of Love Chainmaille Bracelet included in this unique promotional video.

 


Continue to scroll down the page, which by the way, has giant beautiful graphics, and photos, here you will find The CraftStar Favorites - Handpicked items the staff loves, and you will too.  Don't scroll too fast or you'll miss another cool feature the Live Sales Videos (more on that in a minute).

Once again The Alchemists Vessel is pleasantly surprised to see an item from the store featured  here.

Remember I mentioned that Live Sales Video. "Watch Live Video from The CraftStar", link.  allows you to watch four different creators, makers, and crafters talk about their items and buy them directly during the show at a discount!   How cool is that. 

Continue to scroll and you will find Buttons to join either the site or the newsletter, and The CraftStar Collections.  If you are familiar with Etsy, you will recognize these as Treasuries or if you're a fan of Handmade Artists you will recognize them as Highlights.  Put together buy the members of The CraftStar they are just that, collections of items from the various stores on the site.

Here you may click the Shop TheCraftStar button and browse the site.

Click the Become A Seller button to join the site and open  your own shop.  (Membership is $5.00 / month)

Click the Blog button to read their blog.

Click the Join Newsletter to become a non-seller member and shop or browse to your heart's content.  Free.

*Membership of any kind is NOT required to shop or buy from The CraftStar.

Continue to scroll to the end of the page and you will find the Featured Artist and more links to help you navigate the site.

We hope you'll stop by and have a look.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  We're glad to be back and that you are still with us.

NOTE:  All photos are screenshots of the Greeting Page, all logos, designs and links belong to The CraftStar.

The Alchemist Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Great Gifts To Give List 42

Good Morning,


Tuesday's are usually devoted to five items from around the web that would make great gifts.  

Today, I want to share another type of gift, something you can give to help another in their time of need.  There are lots of worthy charities, causes and other local groups and organizations in your area that are happy to take a donation.

ASPCA
You can make a monetary donation on line (just 60 cents a day can help a dog or cat) or perhaps visit or call your local shelter and ask if there is anything they may need, Pet Food, blankets, toys, perhaps a small monetary donation for things like medicines.  Let's not forget those less fortunate this year.





ONE WARM COAT

This site is geared towards kids, not everyone has a coat to keep them warm, especially children as they grow out of them so fast.  The link will take you to the site map, where, if you wish, you may type in your zip code to find a place to make your own coat donation.  Warm your heart by warming up a child with a coat this year.


Toys For Tots 




From the site link you can make a monetary donation, ask for a toy for a child, or find / host a Toy Drive.

American Red Cross


There are many ways to assist, the link will take you to their "Ways To Help" page and find out how to:
Donate
Fund-raise
Talk / Teach / Host a Class
Volunteer
Get involved with a local group organization.
Every little bit helps.


This last one you'll have to do on your own.  Every once in a while lists are printed, published or put out somewhere for Seniors in Need, this could be anything from a bottle of lotion, to a warm blanket or any small item that may be beyond a Senior's means.  I encourage you to look though your local papers, open the phone book and find a hospice or other Senior Care facility, give them a call, make a note, then choose a Senior or several and purchase those small items that may be needed. It will make you feel good, and you will be giving the Senior a gift of more than just lotion.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.



 

Five Great Gifts to Give List 37

Good Morning,

Instead of Five Great Gifts, today we will look at five ways you can help others this Holiday Season.

Donate to your local Humane Society or Animal Shelter.  Food, Blankets, Toys, are always appreciated.  Contact your local shelter and ask what they may need in the way of supplies, every little bit helps.  If you have room in your home and your heart, you might also adopt a little furry friend of your very own. You could love them, and pet them, and call them, "George".

Idaho Humane Society Needed Items

"Miss Nora", the Boss-Lady Fur-person, adopted from the Idaho Humane Society in 2000.  Yes, she is 13 years-old. 
The Alchemist's Cat, or rather The Alchemist's Owner.


Donate a toy or your time to Toys for Tots.  Our economy is terrible, and many children do not get a Christmas or the opportunity to celebrate other Holidays.  There are lots of places that have inexpensive toys, dolls, books, race cars etc., that any child would love to call their own.

Coats For Kids:  When this California Girl moved from the sunny surf-washed beaches of San Fransisco, to the high desert of Idaho, she was not, I repeat NOT PREPARED for the Winter weather. Here in Idaho the Winters can be brutally cold, the temperatures can dip into the Below Zero degrees, -3, you bet that's COLD!    Not every place is as cold as Idaho, and many places get colder, this year (locally) Bruneel Tire Factory and Idaho Youth Ranch Stores are a couple of the donation locations here in the Treasure Valley Area.  Bring your gently used coats or outer wear and drop them off, the coats will be handed out during school hours to Elementary and older children.

Food Banks / Soup Kitchens:

When we think of Soup Kitchens or Food Banks many of us think of the old Depression Era images we have seen from books and History reels.  Just because we don't call it a Depression, don't think for a moment that this country isn't in serious trouble, there are hundreds, thousands, that go without a meal every day in this great and bountiful land of ours, let's make sure every one gets to eat at least once a day.  Donate canned goods, or your time to serve at one, for one weekend a month.

Senior Citizens are sometimes the most in need and usually the first to be forgotten.  There are so many things that one can do for our elders, the people that came before and paved the way for us to do and be what we are today!  There are lots of wonderful ways you can help a Senior, whether it be your own Parents, Grandparents or the Neighbor down the street, a small gift of your time can change a life and be worth it's weight in more than gold.  Here are some links to check out how you can help in your area.  Nursing homes, hospitals, other care facilities might be in need of volunteers to read to or just sit with and be company for those that are alone.  A trip to the grocery store, a ride to a doctor's appointment, simple things that cost you nothing but a bit of your time, and we can all afford to give some of it to someone else.

Seniors Helping Seniors
Seniors in Need
Boise Senior Center

 Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

You're Invited, Too

Good Morning,

This morning The Alchemists Vessel would like to invite you to join us this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October, 11 - 13, 2013, for the First Annual Haunted Open House and Harvest Market.

 

We are very excited to be hosting and participating this year.  Vendors with in-store displays are already there, and we are pleased to introduce the general public to some wonderful artists and great gifts, or that special something you just can't be with out.

The Market will be held indoors and out. Yesterday was a gorgeous day at the store, the sun was out, it was warm and a light breeze came through every now and again, I am hoping the weather holds through the show weekend.

*Market Vendors will be set up on the other side of the tree to the left and stretch across the lot from East to West.  Street signs will also point shoppers to the event.  A-1 Video Game Exchange will be participating as well.

There is some light Dark Decor in the store as we get into the Spirit if the Holiday.  We have kept the decor to a minimum as not to interfere with shoppers or vendors indoor tables.  Some of the decorations will be set up outside or made available to vendors if they wish to have a little spooky in their space.

We are looking forward to the show, visiting with vendors, talking to other local talented folks, and chatting with shoppers to help them find that perfect piece or gift they have been looking for. 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

Find us or more information on facebook, and give us a like if you like:

Little Shop of Artists 

The Alchemists Vessel

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

 

Featured Artist - Little Shop of Artists

Good Morning,

Today I would like to take a moment and talk about Little Shop of Artists.

Little Shop of Artists is a brand new business now open in Boise, Idaho.  

We offer a brick and mortar location to showcase local crafts men and women and the beautiful items they create.  Everything in the store is created locally and we currently have a variety of jewelry, hand knitted/crocheted items along with some photography perfect for a home or office setting.  All items are great for any gift giving occasion.  

Shop Exterior

 We offer daily demonstrations and have class space available for those wanting to teach and also learn.  

Satin Weave Crystal Bracelet, Class Example

Local Artists, Artisans, Crafts-people of all types we are looking for you!  Monthly rental fee applies, Artists keep all Sales Money.  Services include local advertising, business cards, and other amenities.

 We still have space available for artists to display their items so make sure you contact us for information. Sunday, September 29th we will be holding an other open house, so come by and check us out and if you are an artist bring your questions and a sample of your work! 

Currently on Display

We are located: 
6713 Fairview Avenue, Suite B
Boise, ID 83704
(208) 794-8317

Behind A-1 Video Game Exchange in the lot.

Thursday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday12:00 - 6:00 p.m.

During the months of October through December we will be extending our hours to serve your Holiday Shopping needs. 

Local Artisans currently on display in the shop
Shelly Moody of:
The Muddfip Photographer
Green Witch Handmades

Sarah Shannon of:
Wire Witchery
or find Sarah's lovely work at her Etsy Shop

Alixandra Browning of:
The Alchemists Vessel
Blackbird Metal Works
Arachknits (A division of The Alchemists Vessel)

Don't forget to Like Us on Facebook - Little Shop of Artists

Thank you stopping by and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day and encourages you to visit the links, or stop by the shop and say Hello, we'd love to see you. 

Featured Artists - A Good-bye

Good Morning,

Today's blog is brief and not really about much of anything except a little disappointment and some sad news.

Late last night, I was told that a fellow artist and on-line acquaintance lost his life in a traffic accident in Southern California, he was broadsided by a drunk driver.   The news saddened me, and this morning I wanted to share a couple of his pieces that he had been willing to share with the on-line group I chat with occasionally.

I went to the site and much to my dismay, his profile, artwork and posts had been removed.  My jaw hit the floor.  What happened there?  After contacting another member, I'm glad I'm not the only early bird on line, I come to find out that the accident happened over a week ago and that it is site policy to remove inactive members after a five day period.  Needless to say, I was stunned.

"b rav" was his on line name, he rarely shared details, just griped about paint not drying right, or discussed other materials that he worked with.  He was an abstract artist, worked with found items, finger-paintings, and re-cycled a lot of stuff from Thrift Shops, he was the first person to introduce me to Up-Cycling paintings, like the ones below.  These are not his work, I found them on line.

b rav was a kind soul, funny and opinionated.  Never minced words, and would tell you exactly what he thought of your work, good or bad.  He was talented and clever and believed the best work done was the work that made you happy.

I will miss his witty commentary and his funny rants about "Children's Art Supplies" and viewing his eclectic, eccentric and sometimes off the wall art.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Little Shop of Artists Inside Video

Good Morning,

This is the final week of set up as we prepare to open the doors to the public July 16th,  2013.  There has been much progress made, shelves have been painted and hung, wall coverings and shelves are courtesy of Shelly Moody of the Muddfip Photographer / Green Witch Handmade, the current artists on display are Wire Witchery and The Alchemists Vessel  The only thing left to do is get more artists in there!



If you are an artists in or around the Boise, Idaho area, we would love to have a look at your work and see if there isn't a spot in the shop for you.

If you like handmade items, and would like to Shop Small and support your local area business and craftspeople, Little Shop of Artists will be opened to the public starting Tuesday, July 16th, 2013, from10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Contact us:

askus@littleshopofartists.com
littleshopofartists.com
6713 Fairview Ave., Suite B
Boise, ID 83704

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Friday Flyer

Good Morning,

The Alchemists Vessel and Little Shop of Artists is busy preparing to open the store to the public.  Today we have a pictorial plea for Boise, Idaho and surrounding area Artists, Artisans, Craftspeople, Folk- Artists, Woodworkers, Knitters, Crocheters, Sculptors, Painters, Ceramicists, Paper Goods, Glass-working, if we have room for it, you are welcome to display it!

Contact us using this link: askus@littleshopofartists.com

We are not open to the public yet, but should be in the next week or so.  We are looking for talented artisans and crafts people [Independent Contractors] whom would like the opportunity to share their wares available for sale to the public.  Please feel free to contact us via e-mail.  All e-mails will be responded to as quickly as possible, and further details will be given.

We do not offer individual booth space, but instead offer display space in a tidy little Boutique atmosphere.  Please feel free to watch and LIKE Little Shop of Artists Facebook fan page, or the website for the Official Opening Date announcement.

We will consider all applicants, please try to include a photo of your work when contacting us through e-mail. We would love to have a peek at what you do.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  Little Shop of Artists would like to hear from you.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

NOTE:  We are not affiliated with Etsy, an Etsy Street Team, or supported by Etsy in any way.  If you have an Etsy Shop and would like to be a Participating / Independent Contractor we have absolutely no problem with that whatsoever.

In The Studio: Opening a Physical Location

Good Morning,

 
It has been a long-time dream of mine to open and operate my own store.  The idea of the store has morphed from form or another, but always staying within the same vein or theme of handmade art and gifts.

Many of you may be thinking, "Wow, that is so exciting", and it is.  It is also a lot of hard work, time and effort.  There are several other vendors at the Handmade Artists Forum that also have brick and mortar shops, and can tell you it is no easy task keeping one up and running.

I thought it might be fun to share some of the things that go on during the process of establishing a brick and mortar store.

1.  A location, that is essential.  Some questions to ask yourself, What is the rent?  What is the square footage?  Where is it located?  Do I have enough items to fill it?  What kind of store do I want it to be?  Are there displays?  What do I need to provide?  Who will work in the store?  How do I or they get paid?  The most important

Little Shop of Artists, 6713 Fairview, Suite B

question to ask yourself should be, Is it within the budget?


2.  Registering Your Business Name:  Here in Idaho, businesses are not licensed they are registered with the Secretary of State for an affordable fee of $25.00 per name.  This is called an IBR or Idaho Business Registration form.  This registration allows you to "Do Business As (DBA) the name you have chosen for your business, and is usually issued and attached to the applicants social security number.  Your home state's rules and regulations may vary.

3. Tax or Seller's Permit: This is a number assigned to a slip of paper (permit) that reads with your name, your business name (also called a DBA), and other pertinent information.  The State of Idaho requires these permits to be placed in a visible area in the location in which you are selling your goods.  It must also have the phyiscal address of where the goods are located for sale.  In some cases, like myself, two permits are required, one for the origin of business (my home), and the other for the location from which the wares are sold.  This is also how Sales Tax is collected and reported to the State of Idaho.  These are issued at no charge, and as many copies may be issued as you have locations.

4.  Advertising and Draw:  Here in Boise, as in most cities, there is a public radio station that runs entirely on donations and is operated by volunteer D.J.s, KBRX.  They have amazing programming and run fund raising events from time to time, as well as offer promotion for donations.  This is a fabulous way to support an other local business, and get the word out that you are open for business as well.   Local papers will on occasion run a free press release for new businesses.  Check your local agencies to see what you can do to get the word out for your own store or event!

5.  Move In and Open Dates:  When you will move in?  When you will be prepared or set to open?  It is my hope to have one or two, perhaps three vendors a day move into the shop, spaced over a couple hours so all will feel as if they have the time and attention they need to be comfortable and confident in their displays.  I am expecting or would like to announce the opening of the doors on or around July 15th, 2013.   I have given myself two weeks for move in and disaster cushions.

That being said, I am looking forward to maintaining my shops on line, as well as having a physical location to visit and from which to promote other talented artists at a single venue.

I am so excited about this new venture, in hope some of you will join me in my happy nervousness. 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Friday Links

Hello,

Today I thought it might be fun to share some of the other blogs on the the blog ring.

A Bead Thing
http://abeadthing-pam.blogspot.com/2013/05/my-newest-feature-is-colette.html

Thunder Rose Leather
http://thunderroseleather.blogspot.com/2013/05/featured-artist-colette.html

I Knit Quilt Sew
http://iknitquiltsew.blogspot.com/ 

The links above will take you to their post for the featured artists and theme posts for the week.  I am sure there is other stuff to do and read on their blogs as well.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.