the not so everyday blog of an artist

Just Out

2012-02-18T19:16:00.000-08:00

Iced Mocha Bowl

DaNdyLioN Plate

Safari Soap Dish

RED PoPPies Plate

ETSY Favorites Today

2012-02-13T10:21:00.000-08:00

F u N d A y

2012-02-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

a cool find at habitat for humanity

Today was a much needed fun day with my dear friend, Ellen. We had a delicious lunch, played with our pooches at the dog park, and shopped at a few of our favorite second hand stores.

my new hat from Free the Monkey

When I got home, I finished working on some new pieces that came out of the kiln this morning...

Check them out and see what you think!

L o V e

2012-02-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

tru love birds

xoxo plate

heart plate

1 mug, 2 mug, 3 mug, four

2012-01-20T11:16:00.000-08:00

be happy green mug

mine and yours mug set

be happy red mug

Artist Interview, ETSY, and A Studio Facelift

2012-01-11T18:20:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, my friend Robin asked if she could

interview me

for her Creative Peace blog.

I was honored!

Today it is featured at mycreativepeace.

Please check it out.

THANK YOU ROBIN!!!

lotus planter © samos

In more exciting news, the Lotus Planter is being considered for
the Best of Etsy 2012 from DIY magazine!!!

safari plate © samos

Getting excited about some new items

that will be listed in the shop soon!

You'll have to stop by and check them out.

Until next time...

Have a great day!

samos

Inspiring Quotes @ muddypotts

2012-01-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

dare to dream mug © samos

be happy planter © samos

love planter © samos

H E L L O 2012

2012-01-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

out the studio window © samos 2012

The first week of January is already behind us.

I'm bringing in the new year

with a beautiful view from my studio window this morning.

terrarium © samos 2012

Some months ago I was reading about terrariums

in one of my favorite gardening magazines.

Ever since, I've been thinking about making

my own. This past weekend I was visiting a

local garden center and found a few miniture

plants that would work perfectly. Here is a bird's

eye view of what it looks like. Don't be surprised

if you see me making more in the near future!

I'm off to the studio. Until next time...

Have a Wonderful Week!!!

samos

Fresh Out of the Kiln

2011-12-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

Safari Candy Dish

Ladybug Soapdish

Blu Butterdish

2 more days till Christmas!

2011-12-22T19:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas Tree 2011

It snowed!
The Christmas tree is shining bright and I'm ready to celebrate the coming of our Lord.

I wish you and yours the most blessed holiday season!!!

Always,

Stephanie

centerpiece

mantel

New Pottery @ m u d d y p o t t s

2011-12-15T10:14:00.000-08:00

I've been away too long and have missed spending time in my studio!

This last week I have been working away on new pieces, getting those last minute

Christmas presents made and ready to wrap.

Here are a few new pieces that were added to muddypotts today!

Purple Cosmo Vase

Lotus Soap Dish

Mocha Ice Planter

p u m p k i n t i m e

2011-11-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

yum

I've been wanting to make pumpkin bread ever since I brought home a new pumpkin spice candle. The other night I could smell it while I was sleeping. So of course, the next morning I jumped at the chance to start baking. Why not? It's fall! I love this time of year! Leaves change and fall from the trees, the air gets a little crisper, and I feel the need to bake and start sewing again.

Well that morning, I baked a banana bread and ended up making three loaves that week plus two dozen cookies and homemade cinnamon rolls. This week I slowed down a little to 2 loaves of bread (pumpkin) and one dozen cookies. Here are a few pointers from someone who is always learning something new in the kitchen:

1. sometimes substitutions do NOT work out as well as you think they might

While I was making the frosting for my cinnamon rolls, I found that I didn't have confectioners sugar or half and half. So I substituted regular sugar and whipped cream instead. After I poured the concoction over the rolls, they were soggy! So back in the oven they went.

2. even though you can substitute applesauce for oil, it doesn't always taste as good

I made some cornbread the other night to go with our chili. Since I'm watching what I eat more carefully, I decided to substitute brown sugar for regular sugar and applesauce for oil. It wasn't that bad, but I must admit, I like the normal recipe much more.

3. finally, if you are in doubt that your baking pans aren't exactly the right size, measure them. Don't assume unless you want a huge mess in your oven!

*burnt pumkin doesn't smell as wonderful as unburnt pumpkin

Quiet Sunday

2011-10-09T08:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first snowfall. Even though most of the snow has melted, it was a sure sign that my favorite season of the year is finally here! I love those still brisk mornings where frost covers everything. The silence that blankets the mountains. Sipping hot tea and making delicious soups that make the house smell so good....and of course, shopping on ETSY! Here are a few of my favorite pics from this mornings front page.

Extra Thick Cozy Cowl by mgbdesigns

Adjustable Journal Bandolier by cleverhands

Green Curly Mulberry Long Scarf by zuzusworld

A Hike to Remember

2011-09-25T15:32:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken last year and the year before up in the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. We love to hike and ride our horses on the Rainbow Trail. This summer there was a terrible fire that wiped out so many beautiful trees and bushes, leaving very little for the wildlife that lives there. Today I went for a hike and this is what is left...

Be thankful for what you have, for you never know when it will be gone...

IKEA in CO

2011-08-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

STYCKE

Aren't these the coolest shades?
Our brand new IKEA opened last month!

My girlfriend and I went shopping yesterday and I couldn't resist the shade in the middle. I'm a sucker for yellow and it was perfect for one of the lamps in the studio.

my newly dressed lamp

Nu News + Something Cool Just For YOU!

2011-08-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

Dandylion Vase

Another month has passed and again with only one post to speak of. But instead of dwelling on what I haven't done, I'm going to focus on what lies ahead...

For starters, I have a group show coming up in September at the 3rd Street Gallery in Westcliffe! I'm very excited to be working with four very talented artists. I will be exhibiting my sculpture. A few older pieces will be there, but I will also have a few new ones too. One is in the kiln as we speak!

It is the start of a new school year and for some, just another semester to chalk up. I for one will be taking a couple more classes towards my MA, but...I have decided it is not so important that I have to put my life, my family, and my art on hold. Therefore I welcome the new semester with a fresh outlook and look forward to learning more about myself and others every day.

With that said, I am offering FREE SHIPPING on one of my personal favorite ceramic pieces, the Dandylion Vase.

Wishing everyone a beautiful day with lots of smiles and butterflies!!! =)

~samos
...

summer time

2011-07-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

silly bird

Has it been almost three months since my last post?

I took a little sabbatical from blogging, facebook, twitter, and making art.

When finals were approaching last semester,

I decided to isolate myself from the outside world and focus on my current goal...

school

and then I had a surgery.

small plates

Now that I'm on the road to recovery, I'm back in the studio and throwing up a storm!

I'm currently working on a dandelion plate set that will be shipping off soon and then some bowls are on order. Oh, and did I mention my upcoming show in September? I'm also working on some new sculptures that I'm very excited about!

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

fruit obsession

Here's some of the fresh fruit and veggies that I bought today for my new juicer!

I wasn't quite sure if juicing would be worth it or not, but let me tell you...if you don't make your own,

you're totally missing out!

Here's a recipe that I just made up and we're going to name it the Orange-ie Mango Juice.

Orange-ie Mango Juice

1 mango

2 oranges

1 peach

1 carrot

You're going to love it!

daydreaming...

2011-04-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

love this!

maybe someday

cool ideas

All I want to do is play outside or make something creative! So I'll resort to daydreaming and share a few pretty things with you.

You can find them on HERE.

KoiStudios: .net vs .com

2011-03-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

Since 2005 I have had my website listed as koistudios.net. With much debate as to continue with my current host, I've decided to leave. I was having problems with my site and was not having any luck with customer support. In January I moved my website from WebHero.com to SquareSpace.com. I was able to keep my domain name and transfer it to SquareSpace. Well, last month, I was informed that my website wasn't working. Hmmm. That's strange. I was just on it. So I investigated the situation. Turns out that Webhero completely disabled my account even after I paid for another year for my domain name. Supposedly there is a $10 transfer fee that I was not informed of, and after a couple months, they just disabled my account. They didn't even send me an invoice to pay for it or no explanation. So two days ago, I went to WebHero and talked to a representative through live chat. He explained that I needed to pay $10 to transfer my domain name to SquareSpace. Okay, no problem. But here's the catch. I needed to give him my credit card information so that he could create a ticket. Um. Wait a second. That sounds a little fishy to me. I think I remember some where down the road that I'm not supposed to give out any bank or credit card information over the phone or internet. It's like common knowledge right? Or at least those rules you learn as a kid: Don't talk to strangers, look both ways before crossing the street...Okay, you get the picture. So afer a minute I ask him if I can just pay with my PayPal account since that is how I made all my transactions for my WebHero account. "Oh, yeah. I can do that," says Mr. Wayne. It will take a couple hours for the ticket to be created and sent to your email. I was informed that once the payment went through, the transfer of my domain name to SquareSpace would be immediate. YaY! Finally, my website will be up and running again as koistudios.net. Wait a second! Not so fast! This all happened on Friday and guess what? No email from WebHero, no ticket ever created, no response whatsoever. So this morning, instead of trying once again to deal with this company that is so difficult to work with, I decided to move on to another company. Since I am hosting my website with SquareSpace, they recommend Nettica. And now that I have made the big leap, KoiStudios is now a .com! I'm so excited! The new site of course won't be in effect until tomorrow. I guess it takes 24 hours, but once it is, my new domain will be www.Koi-Studios.com.

On a different note, I'm in the process of making something for my friend Robin. Can you guess what it is?

ready to bisque

Shabby Chic, Who Me?

2011-03-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Love Red Pillow

My spring break is coming to an end. In between research and writing papers, I brought out the sewing machine and made a couple pillows and a table runner for the coffee table. Not too sure if this is what they call Shabby Chic or not, but I like it.

lilly's and a new tablerunner

matching pillow

Planters for Spring

2011-03-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

Tall Lotus Planter

Lil' Easter Planter

Little Buttercup Planer

Spring is HERE!

2011-03-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

pink mini roses

It was brought to my attention last night that I have been ignoring my blog since late last month. And it's not that I don't think about posting, but in all honesty, who really wants to know about the mundane life of a returning college student? I'd much rather write about a new painting that I've been working on or the little pink roses that are blooming in my studio window. But then there is that time issue that most people deal with on a day to day basis. Where do I fit the time in to glaze those pots, stretch that new canvas, or sew that pillow that's been on my mind?

planters that need glazed

....and then BAM, there's Spring lurking through my oh-so-dirty windows! This morning while I was thinking about my next assignment I thought I would procrastinate by doing some online window shopping. I've heard of this really cool store called Anthropologie, but have never had the opportunity to check it out. So I hopped on over to their website. WoW! Super cool stuff! and so I was inspired to whip out the sewing machine and make a springy tablecloth.

adding rick rack

almost finished

complete with a beautiful bouquet of tulips

Well, I suppose I've been procrastinating long enough.

Back to work.

Hope you all have a wonderful week!

here fishy fishy

2011-02-23T11:21:00.000-08:00

fishy © samos 2011

I'm a little caught up with some work

and needed a little paint break.

A friend of mine asked if I'd paint

her a goldfish & I jumped

at the chance to

releasesome

creative

juices!

What art offers is space - a certain breathing room for the spirit. ~John Updike

checking in

2011-02-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

I had a quick minute before I take off to class. I'm still around, just laying low in means of blogging, fb, and twitter. This semester is a little full and I'm still trying to catch up on three commissions. A couple of them are almost done. Hoping to get some studio time in this weekend!

I hope you all are having a wonderful week! Drop me a line and let me know how YOU are! =)

Miss you ALL!!!

xxoo

samos

Lucky Bowls

2011-02-10T07:21:00.000-08:00

I know I've been a bit absent these last few days, or has it been a week already?

Here are a few shots of a commission I just finished.

I hope everyone is staying warm! It was -28 here yesterday morning! Brrrr...

International Sculpture Show in Breckenridge

2011-02-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

Despite the papers that need written, orders that need filled and my hubby being sick, we took off yesterday afternoon for the International Snow Sculpture Show in Breckenridge.

Teams from all over the world compete in this championship. It is a free event that is definitely worth seeing. We've always wanted to go and since we only live a couple hours away, we made the trip and boy, was it worth it!

Australia

created by a team from Mexico
won 1st place

David's Favorite

my favorite

medusa

kid's choice

Thank you sweetie for such a fun day!

I'm inspired to sculpt now!

xoxo

Love is in the Air

2011-01-31T09:01:00.000-08:00

love birds© samos

I accomplished quite a bit this weekend and have been itching to paint. I pretty much have all day to read and write papers, so I jumped at the chance to paint.

Love Birds is the second in a series that I've been working on.

( I wish you could hear Lexi snoring right now. It's hilarious!)

Have a wonderful start to your week!

detail

Lazy Girl

2011-01-28T23:14:00.000-08:00

We're one of those weird families that don't watch television. We have a nice tv, but only watch movies on it. So it's on maybe one to two nights every other week. Why? Mainly because I have the full potential to be the best couch potato you've ever seen. And then I feel guilty for not getting anything accomplished. Time is wasted and life just passes you by. Well, even though I tend to be a workaholic at times, I do have the occasional lazy streak that runs through my blood. Every now and then I come across a tv show that is on dvd or Netflix that I become addicted to. Two weeks ago, I discovered Lie to Me. I thought I would be okay, because I thought there was only one season. But I was seriously mistaken. There's three!!! So now that my Friday has come and gone, I have to find the will power to stay off of Netflix for a whole week so I can get papers written, books read, pots thrown, and paintings finished. Wish me luck!

a new leaf

2011-01-25T07:20:00.000-08:00

wheat © samos 2011

So we're coming to the end of the first month of a new year and I'm feeling like I am already playing catch up. Not really how I wanted to start 2011. I have commissions that need finished and new work that I'm excited to create. In the meantime, I'm getting back into a routine that I have done before, but it's been several years. What on earth is she talking about? I was accepted into a graduate program at a local university and started classes last Monday. I am working towards my Masters in Education with endorsements in art and ESL. Since I already have my BA I will be student teaching by next spring! But that means a full load this spring, summer and fall. I'm already working my study time into my day, but am still working on the creative time. Today has been the designated day to finish up one commission and ship off a few orders, then I can work on this weeks assignments. So if I seem a little absent sometimes, that is why.

I hope you all have a wonderful week and as always, I look forward to hearing from you!

Off to a make some art!

hearts, hearts and more ❤❤❤'s

2011-01-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

bowls, dishes, and elephants?

2011-01-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

Sheesh! Have I had a busy weekend!

I've been having lots of fun making new pieces for MuddyPotts...

xoxo heart me dish

i heart you bowl

heart dish

...and even making time to paint here and there.

you aRe loved © samos 2011

zumba + yoga = lots of energy + creativity

2011-01-14T11:53:00.000-08:00

Today was the second time I've taken a Zumba class and am totally hooked! It is so much fun! I used to tap dance when I was younger, and not just the occasional dance lesson here or there. I love dancing and haven't done it for years! The class I'm taking is taught by a childhood friend, so that makes it all the more fun. That and my friend Ellen is there too! And I've been faithfully doing yoga in the mornings three times a week. With Zumba and Yoga, my body and mind are ready to tackle new art projects and keep my creative juices flowing.

Last night I was reading kateyeview on linear perspectives. I love how she can capture the line. I'm a huge fan of perspective and line. She inspired me to take a look back at some of my old photos that I've taken throughout my travels. Here are a few of my linear perspective shots:

vysocanska © samos 2011

walkalong © samos 2011

cobblestones © samos 2011

shodiste © samos 2011

arches © samos 2011

Studio Remodel SALE + Pencil Drawing

2011-01-12T12:44:00.000-08:00

As you know, I have cleaned my studio and did a little rearranging the other day. I love the new look and am getting settled in. Now its time to move some art! Out with the old, in with the new!

Right now, I am offering FREE SHIPPING on anything in my samos etsy shop for the rest of January.

and just today I've decided to take 20% off any original painting until

Sunday, January 16th at midnight (MT time).

Use the coupon code: 5DAYSALE

Feel free to pass the news along to your
friends, family and coworkers too!

This afternoon I was thumbing through my art journal and found a page with two eyes barely sketched in. I sat down, picked up a pencil and this is what happened. I can't tell you how great it felt to be drawing again! Like most artists, drawing was my first love. When I was younger, I would sit on the floor of my bedroom with a VOGUE or ELLE magazine and draw whatever caught my eye.

francis © samos 2011

close up

francis ii © samos 2011

if i were a dog...

2011-01-10T18:08:00.000-08:00

I would be laying next to the fire, sleeping on my favorite pillow all day long. It snowed last night and it's pretty cold. I've been outside several times to shovel snow, feed and water the horses, and to play with the pups of course. But I really haven't accomplished much else. I did make a few cards to send out with some orders, but that's about it.

I'm being extremely l a z y, wishing I were a dog just for the day so I wouldn't feel guilty for not getting anything done. Oh well, there's always tomorrow!

Here are a couple pieces that came out of the kiln last week.

xoxo dish

white hugs and kisses bowl

heart bowl

bears and hippos

2011-01-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

cuddly bear

I've been busy the last couple days with another sewing project, a new commission, and some bowls for Valentines Day. My niece's birthday is coming up this weekend and I've been wanting to make her this little bear ever since I found it in one of my sewing books. It's called a Cuddly Bear even though I think it looks like a hippopotamus.

xoxo

waiting to dry for a bisque fire

love

Don't forget to leave a comment on the giveaway post to enter for a free print! The winner will be chosen on Saturday the 8th. I prefer to have a random winner, but this time, the most entries wins! I suppose there could always be a tie or two...Have a great day my friends!

Thank You GOD: 36 and Counting

2011-01-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

danikeith
thosealaskangirls
moxieandoliver
stepanka

Feeling full of love and gratitude, the L.O.V.E. necklace by Dani was the perfect choice for todays top four etsy picks.

.....Sometimes I miss those cold wintery Alaskan days. I couldn't help but favorite these scruffs to put inside your xtratuffs. Wish I had them when I was on the boats. They look nice and warm!

If I had an iPad (hint, hint) I would have to have this beautiful leather case to protect it.

Who wouldn't love to have this fun ceramic pillow on their wall? I have the perfect spot for it in my studio!

Amsterdam + Studio Facelift + Giveaway

2011-01-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

As always, I've been so blessed this past year. Good memories and lots of art have been created. I look forward to a new year, a fresh start and moving forward with what lies ahead.

Before the year ended I wanted to clean and reorganize the art studio. I should have taken before pictures, but I was to anxious to get started and didn't want to lose the momentum once I was going. Here are a few after shots. I love how it turned out! I have been standing alot while working on my new paintings and raised the drafting table up to a good standing height.

desk and work area

books, glazes, pottery and my new retro wall of photos

easel and paints

A few days ago I added another painting to my travel series: Amsterdam. I used one of my old black and white photographs of a Selle Royal bicycle as a photo transfer and continued to paint with acrylics and ink.

Amsterdam (c) samos 2010

This past year I took the Flying Lessons e-course with miss Kelly Rae Roberts. It was so inspiring! After the class ended I became more aware of my blogging, my personal art goals, and made some amazing new friends along the way. Last week I hit 100 posts for the year! That is the most I've ever had! In celebration of my blog, a year ending and a new one beginning, I am offering a print giveaway! To make it a little fun and interesting, here are the rules:

in the comment section of this post tell me where you would like to travel to if you could and why(1 entry)
go to my etsy shop and tell me which print you would like to have if you win the giveaway (1 entry)
follow my blog (1 entry)
follow me on twitter (1 entry)
become a fan on my fb page (1 entry)

The winner will be chosen Saturday, January 8th. Have fun and Happy New Year!!!

p r i n t M A N I A

2010-12-29T07:39:00.000-08:00

my new book

My sweet husband bought me this great book by Lotta Jansdotter for Christmas! Lotta Prints: How to Print With Anything From Potatoes to Linoleum. I read it the other night and actually finished it! Now I'm having a blast cutting potatoes and printing on paper, canvas and my bedroom curtains!

prints on canvas

detail of curtains

practicing on paper

first page in my new sketchbook

Now can you see how easy it is for me to get distracted in a day? Sooo much to do and so little time!

chatter

2010-12-27T07:58:00.000-08:00

cotton rose (c) samos 2010

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Now that the anticipation has come and gone I'm feeling that sense of ...what should I do now? I want to start some resolutions early like:

start doing yoga again regularly
take more walks
read more books
try new recipes
plant those bulbs (if it's not too late)
rearrange the art studio
finish remodeling the living room

The list goes on and on as I'm sure yours does too. But I am also feeling a sense of ease, if that's the word I'm looking for. It's this feeling of taking my time and not rushing into anything. It seems like we're always in a hurry to do this and that. Why? Is it so important that we let our lives pass us by without taking time to smell the roses, even if they are made of cotton?

daisy (c) samos 2010

handmade vs store bought

2010-12-23T08:39:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I love making gifts. I read something the other day that said one of the top ten worst gift ideas was something handmade. I couldn't believe this! With so many creative and talented people in the world, you would think that the ones that don't take part in their creative side would appreciate a handmade gift from a friend or loved one. I know I do, but that's just me.

I made gifts for most of my family. There were just a couple that I bought for. And if I were to buy some more, these would be my choices.

betsygrace

carriedawaybags

paperplanet

So what do you like? Handmade or store bought? I'd love to hear what you like.

Until next time... Have a wonderful day!

f r o s t

2010-12-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

morning gifts (c) samos 2010

I've always been a morning person and one of the benefits is that you get to see early morning frost on cold wintry days.

frost

Also called hoarfrost or white frost, a covering of minute ice needles, formed from the atmosphere at night upon the ground and exposed objects when they have cooled by radiation below the dew point, and when the dew point is below the freezing point.

frost (c) samos 2010

pine frost (c) samos 2010

happy friday from the cool gang

2010-12-17T13:06:00.000-08:00

If only they knew what I was really doing with their pictures...don't we have the coolest dogs ever? I just love them so much! Somedays Lexi and I like to play dress up, but she's thankful that I was in the mood to play digitally today.

venezia (c) samos 2010

Here is a new mixed media painting that I finished this morning. Venezia is part of the travel series I'm workin on. I took one of my old photographs of some gondolas, did a photo transfer, painted, stamped and collaged the canvas. It didn't quite turn out the way I had envisioned, but I guess I could always do another one. I have plenty of pictures to work with. Although I believe Amsterdam will be next. I've been thinking about that one for awhile and have the image picked out already. Do you have pictures of your travels that you'd like as a keepsake on canvas? I'd love to paint one for you!

Have a wonderful weekend!

cool finds

2010-12-15T23:46:00.001-08:00

kiwikake

lightexture

bodylure

The Perfect Christmas Tree

2010-12-13T06:40:00.000-08:00

David and I went hunting for a Christmas tree with my dad up Bear Creek this weekend. I haven't been up there since I was a little girl! It is so beautiful. Anyways, the weather was perfect, sunny and calm. We went traipsing through the woods, each tree looking better than the next. I wanted a smaller tree than we normally get since our living room seems to be getting crowded with furniture and our new stove. David found the perfect tree! And of course the one my dad picked was a beauty too. It was a lot of fun, even crossing over the beaver dam.

The ornament exchange has come to an end, but not without the joy of collecting ten new ornaments! I made three different ornaments: a Xmas tree, a joy bell, and a heart snowflake. I sent one to each person on the list. In return, women from all over sent me beautiful, handmade ornaments that now have a home on our gorgeous little Christmas tree.

I just LOVE it!

European Travels

2010-12-08T07:28:00.000-08:00

prague (c) samos 2010

The other day I mentioned that I was taking a walk down memory lane and thinking about all the places I have been so fortunate to visit in my travels. Then I was thinking about all the new paintings I could do in honor of these memories that I don't ever want to lose. And that's just what I did! Well, I started anyways. Sienna and Prague are the first two and there will be more to come!

sienna (c) samos 2010

green teapot

Here's my second teapot too! Green as in "greenware", not the color, although that might not be a bad idea!

short and stout

2010-12-06T20:12:00.000-08:00

this is my first teapot and it's definitely short and stout...

the past few days i've been thinking about all the places i've traveled to and the memories that are so easily forgotten if you don't recognize them every once in awhile. so with that in mind, i have a few new ideas for some paintings that will be created in the next day or two. i can hardly wait to show you on wednesday!

Sew, Sew, and Dreams of Kissing Under the Mistletoe

2010-12-03T09:57:00.000-08:00

I love making Christmas presents! Especially for my nieces and nephew. In this day and age where materialism has consumed almost everyone, I like to bring the simpler joys in life to our young ones. (Even if they really don't "get it"). I have been waiting for it to snow since that is my favorite time to sew. But since it's already the first week of December and no snow at our place, I decided to give in and break out the sewing machine anyway. I have two pillows done, two to go and then a couple of stuffed bears to make.

Last month I signed up for an ornament exchange that Jennifer at the JRU Studios hosted. So far I have received five of the most beautiful, unique ornaments I've ever seen! I love them! It's such a treat to get a little piece of art in the mail!

peace by jill metz

1.joy tree by anita kropf

2. christmas bird by diana mulder

3. quiet strength angel by cindy fort

Tomorrow is the Holiday Show at the 3rd Street Gallery in Westcliffe. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by the opening. It's from 5-8pm. I have six pieces of pottery on display.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! See you back on Monday!

Bright Lights, Big City

2010-12-01T06:45:00.001-08:00

bright lights big city (c) samos 2010

Next month I'm going to enter a juried show where buildings and cities are the theme. I've been toying with some new ideas. But the one that I really have stuck in my head involves a large masonite board that could turn into a mixed media painting. We'll have to wait and see...

Here are a couple photo transfers I did last night.

twin cities (c) samos 2010

its looking up (c) samos 2010

Holiday Show and CYBER Monday

2010-11-29T06:58:00.000-08:00

WoW! That was a long weekend, but I had a ton of fun! It started on Wednesday night, setting up for the show. I was lucky enough to get a wall space right next to a door, so I had plenty of room. Since this was the second show I've ever attended, I don't have a very good display. But I did some research and found something that would work in a pinch. I took an old ladder that I use in my garden and borrowed one from my dad. Placed them next to each other and made shelves out of them! It worked perfectly! I made some sales, one commission, and many contacts. I would say it was pretty successful and the hardest part was sitting still! Plus I made some new friends too! Can't beat that!

I couldn't have done this without all the help from my parents. They were amazing!Mom, Dad, thank you SO much! I love you!

...on a different note, today is Cyber Monday! Head on over to MuddyPotts for a 20% off discount on any item! Just enter the coupon code: CYBERDAY and it will be calculated for you at checkout.

I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving and a fun weekend!

tutto quello che amo

2010-11-24T12:53:00.000-08:00

everything i love

I am the queen of procrastination. I am supposed to be finishing up my pendants, but I found this canvas just calling my name. I thought to myself, " I don't have time to paint today, but I could make a MuddyPotts sign for my booth!" So what was supposed to be a sign for my upcoming show turned into a mixed media painting called "everything i love".

Tutto quello che amo is the Italian translation. I thought since I love Italy, the language, the food, etc. I could say just that!

Okay, I'm off to load the car and head out to set up my booth!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

peace love & joy to you all

painting again, YES

2010-11-21T20:58:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if the painting I finished this last week was the beginning of something new, but whatever is the cause for getting the brushes back into my hand, I am eternally grateful. I have been so happy these last few days with new ideas flowing like water. What was once lost has now been found: the desire to paint.

isis

Isis was inspired by an email that I received from my girlfriend. She is a published poet and was sending out an invitation to her reading at the Hotel Lenado in Aspen this coming Sunday. We have done some collaboration work together but it has been a long time since we've done one. After reading her email I went into my archives and found Isis, one of her poems.

Isis
Swimming through the nectar
Of a tawny afternoon,
Her black dress falls away.
And the sun drapes her flesh
In the skin of the gods;
Coating her body in that golden light
And the heat at the end of the day –
As she steps toward him.

-Suzanne Bronson

inspired

I went to church today and as always I come home happy, full of love, and refreshed.Inspired comes from what God has given me, a life. I have always been in love with His creation and grateful to enjoy each day we have.

Love Birds

2010-11-18T14:27:00.001-08:00

love birds

I started a new series of paintings called Love Birds. Remember the photo transfer I did last week? Well, I had so much fun with it that I thought "why not do some paintings?" And that's where we are right now. This is an 11x 14 canvas board mixed media. It isn't in my etsy shop yet, but it will be soon. Stay tuned for their debut...

xmas tree

The first batch of Christmas ornaments came out of the kiln this morning! I love how they turned out! There is another batch already to be glazed. Perhaps I can get those done while watching some movies tonight...

xmas trees, joy bells, and heart snowflakes

2010-11-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

The days are getting shorter and so is my window of opportunity to get things wrapped up for my upcoming holiday show. Eleven more days, but whose counting? Last week I made ornaments for the ornament exchange that I'm doing with eleven other artists. Once they came out of the kiln, I decided I didn't like them and to make some different ones. Here's a peak at what the new ones look like...

heart snowflake

joy bell

xmas tree

I love these little ornaments so much that I am going to include a FREE one with every purchase from MuddyPotts until December 24th.

Bijou's Whimsy November Giveaway

2010-11-13T19:56:00.000-08:00

So two weeks in a row I've missed my personal deadline of posting on Friday, but who's keeping track? Besides, I did it on purpose so I could announce an awesome giveaway from Mandy of Bijou's Whimsy. You definitely need to hop on over to her blog right now and enter! She is an amazing artist and I know you would love to have "Live in the Light" in your home.

something new

2010-11-10T20:03:00.000-08:00

The other day I was learning about photo transferring. It's something that I've been interested in for awhile now and decided to try it. I used watercolor paper, a gel medium and colored photocopies along with one in black and white.

sunflower

pansies

poppies

So what do you think? I was actually amazed at how easy it is! I have so many photos that I want to play with now!

a new look

2010-11-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

December 8th will be the two year mark for muddypotts, one of my etsy shops. I woke up this morning thinking about my banner and how blah it was. Definitely time for a change. SO go check out my shop, the new banner and see buy yourself a present for just being you!

peace and love

samos

clay candy

2010-11-07T19:05:00.000-08:00

pendant tree

Here is a sneak at what I've been working on for the upcoming Holiday Art and Craft Show. I will have pendants, magnets and all sorts of cool pottery to show in the next two weeks. I'm getting excited! Can you tell? The kiln has been going non stop for the past week, and so have I! Actually I took a little break today. Well, after I a little work this morning...

I went for a fun ride on Neo and then spent a great day with my folks. After a delicious lunch we went into Westcliffe to see if the 3rd Street Gallery was open. Low and behold, it was! I have a painting in the Small Town Living Show and hadn't had a chance to check it out yet.

What a great show!

lotus orange peel pendant

cappuccino swirly pendant

lotus swirly pendant

cappuccino orange peel pendant

Thanks Dad for the super cool tree display! I love it!

xxoo

so much 2 say...

2010-11-03T19:37:00.000-07:00

...tomorrow...

I'm whooped tonight!

But I wanted to share a couple new pieces that came out of the kiln yesterday.

mocha marble trivet

'lil s p l a s h dish

dOyliEs

2010-11-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

dOylie bowl

doYliE planter

What a great Monday! I usually like to make my posts first thing in the morning, but today was one of those days where I decided to play more and work less. It was snowing beautifully after I fed the horses and wanted to go for a walk. By the time I was dressed and ready, it had stopped! But the dogs and I went anyways and it was so worth it...

living the dream

2010-10-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

art journal page 3

Today was one of those hectic days from the get go. I was doing my normal routine of reading and responding to emails, tweeting, uploading new pieces on my Etsy shops...and then I went to work on a new post and saw that Amanda from EBSQ had chosen my blog for the Friday Five since I started my new art journal! Totally made my morning! Thank you so much Amanda and EBSQ!

pendants drying

The other day I was putting up some shelves for more pottery in the studio. While I was looking at all these pieces, I decided right then that I needed a sale of some kind. I'm running out of room! So I called my mother to see if she knew of any craft shows coming up and she did! I was given a number to call to see if there was any space left. There were 3 spots open and I jumped on one! I'll be in the Holiday Art and Craft Show in Salida November 26th and 27th. If you're in the area, stop by and see me!

trivet drying

I immediately brought out all my pieces and started doing an inventory. Then I started thinking about other things related to my work that I could put in the show. I've thought about making pendant necklaces for awhile and thought this would be the perfect time to try them out. The cool thing is that I have almost a month to make more pottery too! I'm excited and motivated. Love this combination!

I am so so blessed to be living my dream of making art, riding horses and playing with my dogs. What's your dream?

...finish what you start?

2010-10-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

art journal day 2

Do you remember way back when I started the bragging art questions? Sheesh! It took me forever to find the last one I left off with.

#8. What professional and personal obstacles have you overcome to get where you are today? What essential lessons have you learned from any mistakes?

Professionally, I've had to overcome rejections from shows, galleries, even a job I once had as an artist in residence. But what I've learned from all those particular obstacles is that they have made me stronger as a person. I have learned to develop new ways to approach art events, marketing my work and myself as an artist. I am also learning to say no to certain commissions that are just more stress than they're worth. I have found that with commissions, you should only take on what is relevant to your work and not take on something just because you'd like another sale.

Personally, I had all the normal struggles of going to school full time and working 1, 2 or 3 jobs, maintaining a bad relationship, and having a social life. That was in my 20's. Now that I'm in my 30's, I have the most supportive husband in the world, friends that actually go to my shows and support my work, and the luxury of working as a full time artist in my home studios.

Lessons learned:

Don't give up no matter how hard life gets
Give thanks
Be patient
Don't lose site of your dreams

art journal: day 1

2010-10-25T09:30:00.001-07:00

Today is my first attempt at art journaling and I'm having fun with it too! I am realizing that it's my journal so I'm incorporating words that will inspire me when I'm in a funk. I've never really been that great at doodling, so that part is a bit challenging, but I am getting ideas for some new paintings.

( S M I L E)

Have you started your journal yet?

journaling and such...

2010-10-24T06:11:00.001-07:00

I've been away for a few days with my love. It was great to visit friends that I haven't seen in over two years and it's always nice seeing family. While I was gone, I visited Planet Earth and the Four Directions Gallery and Theresa Hochhalter's working studio. Both places are amazing! The gallery is one of my very favorite places to visit. It is a vintage thrift shop and gallery owned by my dear friend and artist, Caole. Theresa is another amazing artist friend that paints and sculpts in her studio full time. I was excited to visit with her in the studio and have a lovely chat about her work. Needless to say, I had the best time! I always find inspiration and motivation when around other artists.

Not to change the subject, but I've been thinking a bit about art journaling. I don't do it. I love journals. I love to create. Why not create an art journal? What a concept! So this week, I'm going to start an art journal and along the way I'll post what I've been jotting down.

Do you art journal? Have any tips or tricks you'd like to share with me? I would love to hear from you! I've missed you all and look forward to being home creating again!

200 + Daisy

2010-10-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

Lexi and Daisy

Remember a week and a half ago I found a little dog sitting in the middle of the road? I posted fliers, reported her found to the humane society and local veterinarians. Unbelievably no one has claimed her, so in a few days, she'll officially be our newest member of the family. We call her Daisy. She is the sweetest little girl and loves her new friends.

Today I've reached 200 posts on my blog! Can you see me patting myself on the back? If you noticed the title of my blog, you can see that 200 is a big deal for me, especially looking back on the last few weeks...or months. I feel like time is slipping through my fingers. But I have a plan, one of which is to have a new post up on Monday, Wednesday and Friday of every week. I don't think I've succeeded once, but I'm still trying! It's a goal that I am determined to reach. And hey! It's Wednesday, so I'm 2/3 of the way through my goal for this week! (Even if I did miss Monday somehow).

Here are few new pieces that came out of the kiln over the weekend...

cappuccino butter dish

sPoTTy vase

Dragon-fly Mug and Bowl Set

dragon-fly mug set

ETSY FAVORITES

2010-10-14T06:02:00.000-07:00

It's been too long since I've shared some of my favorite picks from other Etsy shops.

Here are some from today.

Have a wonderful Thursday!

how it all began by TheExtentofSilence

night and dawn by undeadmushroom12

burgandy brogade rembrandt by hatsbybuck

compass ring by outoftheblue

Little Interruptions

2010-10-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

Boy did last week fly by or what?! I had all the intentions in the world to have a new post up on Friday and all of a sudden its Monday! Happy Columbus Day!

You'll never guess what happened to me last night. I was on my way to Salida, and not even 15 miles from my house is an adorable little dog just sitting in the middle of the road. I stopped and she didn't move. I pulled over when I saw another car coming towards her. I made sure they saw her so she wouldn't get hit. Then they stopped, so I put my car in park and got out. She came running over to me with her tail wagging so fast! By then the other car left. I looked around to see if anyone was around. No one. So, I picked her up and on we went. I have since posted her on fidofinder.com, made some fliers and have called some local vets. The humane society opens at 10, so then I'll be giving them a ring too.

So with fostering a little girl on top of visiting family, I'm hoping to get a little work done tonight. Here are a couple things that came out of the kiln over the weekend.

Dragonfly Tea Set

Cappuccino Plate

2 Giveaways!

2010-10-06T22:10:00.000-07:00

There are two amazing artists that are having 2 different giveaways going on right now! Jennifer of Studio JRU is giving away a beautiful print of your choice. I'm hoping to win "Peace."

Mandy of Bijou's Whimsy is giving away an original lino-cut that would look amazing in my studio! but I'm being nice and spreading the word for all my friends to have the chance to win either one of these awesome giveaways!

A New Look and A New Show

2010-10-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

I'm getting back into the swing of things. I feel like I've been climbing out of a hole the past few weeks and finally see the light. First of all I have a new website! It is under a new domain for the time being, but I'm working on getting my old one transferred. Once that happens, then the link will be the same with just a very new and fresh look.

Awhile back I had mentioned that I was struggling with the idea of letting my KoiStudios name go and just go by my given name. But when it came time to work on my website, I found a template that had two koi fish swimming in a circle. Now this is super special to me because 1. I have a tattoo that is almost identical and 2. it's the name of my studio! So as you can imagine, I was so happy and decided to keep the name KoiStudios.

I referred back to my Flying Lessons ecourse notes for websites and decided to go with Squarespace. It is real user friendly and I'll find out soon how the tech support is when I make the domain transfer.

bisque ware

Here's what I have been putting off. Glazing. For some reason I cannot find the motivation to glaze. I love seeing how they come out of the kiln, but deciding what to put on the bisque pieces is another story.

more bisque ware

This afternoon I took Night and Day (a large bronze) to the 11th Annual Artful Women's Show in Canon City. It's an annual fundraiser for the scholarship fund held by the Zonta Club of the Royal Gorge. Friday is the opening and I'm excited to see the show! Oh, another cool thing that happened was that my favorite number (27) was the # put on the bottom of my piece for the juror. You could imagine how big my smile was when I saw that!

Night and Day

...not my forte

2010-10-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Decorating has never been my forte. I feel like I have no style when it comes to putting a room together. And now that I have 1/2 of a house without vinyl wallpaper, I can actually adorn the walls with some art!

I usually have a large painting over the mantel, but yesterday I liked the staggered look of this diptych abstract I painted last year.

Here is my newest favorite corner of the house! My mother-in-law brought us an end table awhile ago that had been out in the pottery studio. It then made its way into the spare bedroom and was covered with a white sheet and piled with pottery. I decided it was time for a face lift. I painted it a matte black and nestled it into the corner which will house our pellet stove someday. But until then, this little table has a new home! And I'm loving all the color!

...and our dining room now has New Monday on the wall which was in the living room. I like it so much better in there. It pulls all the browns together with a hint of color.

work today, play tomorrow

2010-09-29T17:00:00.001-07:00

mr ladybug catching some z's

Today was a very productive day even though I feel like I didn't get anything accomplished.

Ever have one of those days?

a couple pieces I threw today

some mexican hats surviving the fall heat

and this is what I'll be doing tomorrow!

hints of change

2010-09-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

The cool mornings are a constant reminder that fall is definitely here. The horses are starting to get their winter coat, the garden is starting to die, and the mums are beautiful as ever...

...here are a few more shots from the botanical garden trip.

So Proud of My Children

Nicholas Kadzungura

a beautiful stone pathway that we'd love to replicate someday...

bells in the Riki house (I think that's what it was called)

a work in progress

2010-09-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

It's been almost two weeks since I've been in the pottery studio. Instead of getting down on myself for neglecting my work, I've decided to take this time as an opportunity to make the transition back into the painting studio. Here are a few images of my newest work in progress that was inspired by the beauty of the botanical gardens in Denver. As of now, it is a watercolor on canvas, but I'm predicting it will end up a mixed media.

A Day of Culture

2010-09-23T05:55:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, my husband whisked me away to Denver for a much needed break from the studio. We went to the Denver Art Museum and to the Botanical Gardens. It was the first time I've ever gone to the museum to see just one exhibit, but this one was extraordinary, Tutankhamen: the Golden King and Great Pharaohs. There is usually a wait to purchase tickets, but we arrived at the perfect time and were able to get right in. It was breathtaking! As a sculptor I am always intrigued with different types of stone and what has been carved from them. I still have a difficult time grasping the idea of how these ancient people lived and what they accomplished in their life time. To see these statues of pharaohs in person and the furniture and jewelry...it just blows my mind. I love it! One of the ideas that I liked about this time in history is the symbolism that they used. Images of birds, beatles and cats keep entering my mind as I replay what I saw. The gold and beads that were used in the jewelry. The idea of keeping internal organs in an urn for the afterlife. There was art in everything they did.

...and then we went to the Botanical Gardens! Ever since my friend Suzanne brought back pictures of Henry Moore sculptures from NY, I knew I had to see them for myself. And were they beautiful! I couldn't imagine them being anywhere else. If you are ever in Denver and get the chance, I highly recommend the trip to the gardens. David and I arrived around 5 and couldn't have planned it better. The lighting for pictures was perfect and there weren't a lot of people. I kept telling him, if we lived here, I would work here. I could come here everyday! It was the perfect day!

and the winner is...

2010-09-18T07:54:00.000-07:00

...Jennifer@ Studio JRU!

Congratulations Jennifer!

Thank you ALL so much for all of your entries! I am still overwhelmed by the response I received from my 1st giveaway! I have met so many wonderful creative souls from across the globe. I look forward to reading about you in all your future endeavors.

Have a great weekend!

ooxx

~samos

*the winner was chosen randomly with random.org

Trust the Process

2010-09-15T20:24:00.000-07:00

i don't know about you, but i find myself in this constant battle with myself. so many ideas floating around in my head and being so overwhelmed that i don't know what to do first. lately i've been very involved in my pottery, which has been great (for my pottery) but there's an emptiness inside me. a sadness i suppose, longing to get back to my canvas and paints. today, my sis asked me if i'd paint her a dragon. of course i said yes even though dragons really aren't my thing, but i broke out the paper and paint anyways. i haven't finished it yet. the painting part is done, but i can't seem to find the black sharpie i want to use, so there it sits. unfinished. and i have two blank canvases sitting on the easel constantly yelling out my name when i'm in the studio. oh, i hear them. but why can't i just drop what i'm doing and answer their call? everyday i say, "I'm going to paint today!" and then, i don't. i guess part of me is trying to find my niche and the other part of me is saying who gives a flying BLEEP? who needs a niche? just create! paint! throw! sculpt! take a picture! create!!! this is where Trust the Process comes in. a dear friend lent me this book by Shaun McNiff. i started reading it the other day and i like it, but for those of you that know me, it takes me f o r e v e r to finish a book. we're talking years and sometimes never. but i WILL finish this one. it's good therapy for me...

...today is wednesday already? you know what that means don't you? two more days to enter the blog giveaway! post your comment on monday's post for your chance to win a handmade r e d poPPies bowl and plate made by yours truly!

FIRST BLOG GIVEAWAY

2010-09-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

I asked if you would be interested in a giveaway and I was blown away by the response!I love giving, so why not give YOU a gift from me? I think it should be fun, so let's start!

giveaway guidelines

Visit my blog and post a comment telling me what your favorite number is and why. Mine is 27 because I could never for the life of me remember that 9x3=27 when I was a kid. My dad would quiz me so much until I finally got it and now the product has become my fav. (Worth 1 entry)

Each worth 1 additional entry if you would like to:

LIKE samos on facebook

Follow stephanieamos on Twitter

Follow samos via google on my blog sidebar (If you already follow me, it counts!)

Tweet daily using retweet

The contest will end on Friday, September 17th, 2010 at 10pm EST. The winner will be picked randomly through random.org and will be announced Saturday, September 18th. The winning entry will win a handmade R E D poPPies Bowl and Plate by me, samos! Let the games begin and have fun! Oh, and feel free to pass this along to your friends!
love~samos

This giveaway is listed at All Things Bloggy.

H a p p y B i r t h d a y S I S !!!! xoxo

2010-09-10T14:01:00.001-07:00

Today is my sister's birthday! Just wanted to give her a shout and share it with the world!

H a p p y B i r t h d a y S I S !!!! I love you!

...and has anyone ever been so taken with a restaurant that they took a picture of...um...the bathroom? Well, my friend and I met for breakfast this morning at the new Michael's on Main in Canon City. It is very modern for this town, but loved every bit of it! They have an amazing art gallery upstairs, gelato, coffee, good food...what more can you ask for? And check out this sink! It looked like it was made out of wood, but it was some kind of stone, I think. I absolutely loved it!

pottery and pickles

2010-09-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I glazed some new pieces and here's a sneak peak of what came out! I am really loving the botanical series. And I forgot how much I like the red clay!

I also canned 7 jars of bread and butter pickles. It was my first time doing it by myself. Well, kind of. I called my mother about a million times to make sure I was doing everything right. And of course I had to make a quick trip into town to pick up a few spices I didn't have. When I returned home, I started taking the lids off the jars to put them in the dishwasher and POP! There went the lid!!! Oh no! I hope I don't need new lids! I just came back from town. As I took off each lid, they did the same as the first. POP! POP! All 12 of them! So that was the first call to Mom. She said to call the extension office to make sure they were still okay. So I did, and they were. Guess the elevation change makes them do that even if they aren't sealed yet. Glad to know... Anyways, they all popped after the bath and are good to go! This is my first year canning.

R E D poPPies plate

missing you

2010-09-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

I just met a neighbor after being here for two years. It's funny how we get so comfortable in our own surroundings and hesitate to venture out into the unknown. I'm grateful to those who inspire.

g o o d b y e SUMMER, h e l l o FALL

2010-09-05T07:41:00.000-07:00

splash dish

R E D feRn vase

lotus jar

BLacK PoPpies bud vase

As we embark on my 2nd favorite season of the year, I look back at the summer that has come and gone so fast. It has been a great one. David and I have been camping a couple times, I've taken the kayak out a few times, had nice visits with family and friends...and that's not counting what's happened with my art and creative business. I took the Flying Lessons ecourse with Kelly Rae, made new friends with creative souls all over the world, started working with a new gallery in Livingston, TX...I could go on and on, but I don't want to bore anyone. Let's just say it's been a great summer and leave it at that!

Here are a few of the new additions to the botanical section at muddypotts. I'm growing fond of the black and white pieces. Simple. I've been painting mostly poppies or ferns, but there is one vase that turned out to be dandelions, so I am going to start doing more of them too!

Pueblo Day Trip

2010-08-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

dandy-lion vase

Two days ago I was in the middle of glazing when I remembered that it was Monday. Let me start from the beginning...

Several weeks ago I helped a juror with a show at the 3rd Street Gallery in Westcliffe. It was there that I made two new friends, Joni and Lolita. They both live in Pueblo. I told them that one of these days I needed to go and check out the art scene in their hometown. With this being said, they wanted me to be sure and call them when I came down so they could give me a tour and Mondays happened to be the best day for them.

... in the middle of working I decided to give Joni a call and see if she was busy. Of course she was, but when I told her that I was thinking of coming to Pueblo she said she would drop everything and be my guide. And that was the beginning of a great day!

Once I arrived, Joni took me to a fabulous little Mexican restaurant called Jose's on Union. I highly recommend it and can hardly wait until my hubby gets home so I can take him. After a delicious lunch we went to see a new ceramic co-op called Cup and Bowl, but they were closed. I believe their days of operation are Wednesday-Saturday, so I will definitely be going back, but from what I could see through the windows, I'm going to just love it!

We then went down the street a bit to a little piece of heaven, Latka Studios. It was there that Joni introduced me to her friends, Tom and Jean Latka. As I was walking through the beautiful garden entrance to the gallery/studio, I knew I was about to meet two very talented artists. Tom and Jean work in clay and glass. They were kind enough to show us what they were currently working on and invited us into their studio. As we were leaving, I was given a gift of Ceramic Extruding, a book that was written by both of the artists.

After we left the Latka's, Joni took me to Steel City Artworks, another co-op gallery for artists in Pueblo, the Sangre de Cristo Center for the Arts, and the Pueblo Art Guild in beautiful Mineral Palace Park.

I can't thank Joni enough for the lovely day I had! It was so much fun and a much needed break from the studio. Thank you Joni! xoxo

jars and vases

2010-08-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

marboulous jar

R E D poppies vase

fallen petal jade jar

black bud vase

Art Bragging Question #7

2010-08-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

Sooo much has happened this last week! I was featured on EBSQ not once, but twice! The first time was for my art blogging on Tuesday and yesterday my Gumdrop Bowl was featured as Art of the Day on the front page! And as if that wasn't enough to tickle me pink for the rest of the month, Lori from Sanderwood Fine Arts Gallery sent me an email asking if I would like to sell my pottery with them!

With all the excitement, I have neglected my art bragging project. So here is question number seven:

7. What new art or business skills have you learned in the last year?

This year I took the Flying Lessons e-course with Kelly Rae Roberts. It was such an amazing experience. I already had a jump start since I have been in business with KoiStudios for the past five years, but there were so many new techniques and ideas that made me approach certain things differently. It also made me realize that I'm not alone in this exciting, overwhelming passion of mine. Many many creative souls share the very same fears and ambition, but just aren't quite sure how to direct these emotions. Kelly guided us flyers in the right direction, UP! She shared tips and secrets that not just any successful artist is willing to hand over. So to answer this question a little more directly I would have to say this:

BLOG

I learned to post more regularly on my blog. That I should be a little more insightful to my personal life, as well as my art. I also learned that the more you read other blogs and comment, the more you find you have in common with other people. The world is a big place, but the more we connect, the smaller it seems to get.

I learned how to make a button for my blog! (Thanks Natasha and Kelly!) Now I can redirect more people to my work by sharing my button on myspace, my website, and blog.

NETWORKING.

This is a very important skill to have and you can do this anywhere. Introduce yourself. Ask people about themselves. Get to know others and you'll be surprised how much they'd like to know you too!

Even though this isn't a business skill, I feel it is important to be recognized.
I learned that I don't have to declare just one medium to be an artist. It's okay for me to be undecided. I am still trying to find my unique style. I believe I have one in painting and sculpture, but I'm still working on it in my photography and pottery. Life is about growing and change and my art will evolve, just like everything else.

SHOUT o u t 2 JIMMY: H A P P Y bIRtHdAy brother

2010-08-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

jim with his girls

Today is my little brother's birthday! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dearest Jimmm-my, Happy Birthday to YOU!!!

He turned 34 today. My how the years fly!

EBSQ featured blogger

2010-08-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

I know, I've been a little excited the last few days about all the attention from EBSQ. But can you blame me??? Here's the link to the interview! Check it out and leave a comment! =)

EBSQ BLOG

Now it's time to get back to work. I had a great weekend camping with my hubby and pups. We went up to Monarch Park. My parents took me up there mushroom hunting last week. It's so beautiful! I had full intentions to paint, but all I did was hunt mushrooms and start on my new book by Kelly Corrigan, The Middle Place. Oh well, there's always tomorrow. I mean, today!

EBSQ FRIDAY FIVE

2010-08-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

The Blu Poppies mug was chosen as one of the Friday Five for EBSQ today! I'm so excited and honored! AND Amanda wants to interview me for next weeks blog feature!!! Can you see me smiling from ear to ear? Stay tuned....and have a G R E A T weekend!

b o t a n i c a l @ muddypotts

2010-08-17T12:58:00.001-07:00

bLu poppies mug

FERN vase

Gosh! It's been almost a week since I fired up the kiln!
I was so happy with everything that fired last night. Of course there is always that little blemish that drives me nuts or a bit of glaze that dripped onto a spot that wasn't supposed to, but that's just life. You can't have everything, well at least I can't and I've come to terms with that.

I noticed that I'm still plugging along with my art bragging questions. I'll try to get through them this week, but I won't make any promises.

Question #6 asks:

What career successes (education, exhibitions, collections, . . . ) are you most proud of having accomplished?

Can I simply just say ALL of them? Probably not, but it was worth a try. I'd have to start with my education of course. I learned so much from my professors and my peers, both at Mesa State and NYU. It was an amazing education that I wouldn't trade for the world. And you never know, I just might go back for a masters someday.

I have participated in many group shows, juried and non-juried, and had a couple solo exhibitions as well. All of them have been a learning experience, but I would have to say that the two solo shows that I've had were by far the most successful. They were a lot of work, but I can honestly say, I am proud of myself for sticking to it and creating a body of work in three mediums.

I am unaware of how many collections my art is in since I have been selling my work for quite awhile. I would like to say that I am honored to have any of my work in any one's art collection, whether it be private, small, or large.

one of those days...

2010-08-16T17:18:00.000-07:00

I had big plans to get a lot of pieces made today, but usually when that happens, nothing gets made! My friend called me this morning to go for a ride, so we went for a nice 2 hour ride which gave me a much needed break from the wheel. I also ran some errands and then went back to throwing. I've only made two pots. Oh well, I guess that means I have no excuse to get my glazing done for the night. Procrastination must come to an end sometime I suppose...

PoPPy p a i n t i n g

2010-08-12T17:13:00.001-07:00

I didn't realize how many questions there were for this Art Bragging Project I started! Oh well, it's still fun. I just don't want to bore anyone with it, so I thought I would try something a little different today.

Here's question #5:

What projects are you working on right now, and why are you enthusiastic about them?

*Sorry about the quality of this video. I haven't quite figured out my new computer yet!

Beauty of Today

2010-08-12T08:08:00.000-07:00

Coneflowers by Stephanie Amos

3rd Street Gallery

2010-08-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

me, next to Red Wood, my newest sculpture

It has been a very busy two weeks, but now summer is slowing down and I'm getting back to my routine. Last week I volunteered to help with the Faun and Flora show at the 3rd Street Gallery in Westcliffe.

Morning Dew, Reflect II, and Dandylion

On Sunday my family and I went out on Lake DeWeese to do some canoeing and kayaking. It was a blast! It was my first time in a kayak and now I'm totally hooked. After our bout on the lake, we went into town for an ice cream and stopped by the gallery to see the show.

Bragging About Art: Question #4

2010-08-09T21:54:00.000-07:00

4. What do you like/love about being an artist?

-the process of creating a photograph, from taking the picture to printing it in the darkroom

-"seeing" the image in my mind and then seeing it completed with my eyes

-the zone I get into when I'm working

-the materials I use: paint, brushes, clay, wax, marble, bronze, cameras, enlargers...They all have their own unique qualities that are so fun to work with.

-sharing my work with people all over the world

-making new friends with other artists at art shows, galleries, and online

-the freedom and independence to be creative everyday

-the diversity of tasks that are done throughout the day as a working artist

-learning new techniques and being stimulated by color and texture

-sharing what I have learned with other artists

Bragging About Art: Question #3

2010-08-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week! Here goes question and answer #3.

3. How did you end up becoming an artist? (a frequent topic of conversation)

To be very honest with myself and whoever is going to read this, I would have to say that the thought of becoming an artist came at a very young age. I remember looking up at a sunset one evening and thinking about how I would like to be a cloud painter. Since God has that job covered, I aspired to the next best thing...becoming an artist.

There have been several times in my life where I was too busy to create art. I was either working on a boat in Alaska or traveling here and there. But I never stopped longing for the time when I could be at home, working in my studio, day in and day out. I have been truly blessed to have the love and support of my husband who stands by me.

...I have been an artist my entire life. It is who I am and what I do.

Bragging About Art: Question #2

2010-08-03T08:11:00.001-07:00

Okay, since I'm feeling a little ambitious about this exercise, here goes question and answer #2.

2. What are the ten most interesting things you have done or that have happened to you that have contributed to your art career?

1.I took as many art classes as I possibly could during my high school education. If I had any extra study halls or independent studies, I was in the art room.

2.When I was 19, I had quit college and went to Alaska to work on the Bering Sea. This venture was a big part of my life. 3 1/2 years later I decided full heartily to go back to school to learn all I could about art. I still remember the very day that I made that decision. It was as if God was sitting right there with me and we were having a real heart to heart on the deck of the Blue Wave.

3. In 1999 I went to school through NYU and studied abroad in Florence, Italy. There I took Masters and Monuments (the BEST art history course you could imagine), drawing from Roberto, photography with Alessandra, and Italian.

4. I jumped into 3d classes after my return from Italy at Mesa State College, where I completed my undergraduate studies. It was here where I grew as a young artist, finding myself through my art.

5. Making friends in the art community at home and throughout the world. This is a pretty broad statement, but it is one that is worth mentioning. Without other artists and the connections we make, my art wouldn't have been able to evolve into what it is today.

6. Learning how to navigate the Internet, working with social networking sites, blogging, creating a website...All of these have been significant to building a creative business and selling art online and in galleries.

7. I've had two solo shows that were both so much work and a lot of fun. I made sales, gained new clients, and learned that there isn't anything you can't do if you are willing to put in the time and effort it takes to accomplish your goal.

8. I have joined art guilds in my community. Volunteering. Networking. I can't say enough about it. You meet the neatest people, hear stories that are so intriguing. It is stimulating for the creative mind to learn something new. Why not learn from others that have the experience?

9. In 2004, I studied in Prague to teach English as a second language. It was there that I made lifetime friends, shot more images for my archives, ended a chapter in my life and started a new one.

10. I couldn't be where I am today without God and the love and support of my husband, family and friends. Without them, I wouldn't be me, and therefore my art wouldn't be either.

Boy! These are some tough questions! I wonder what's in store for tomorrow???

Bragging About Art: Question #1

2010-08-02T21:27:00.000-07:00

I just read today's newsletter from Alyson Stanfield about a book called Brag! How to Toot Your Own Horn Without Blowing It by Peggy Klaus. There are twelve questions that are asked in a free questionnaire on Peggy's book website. Alyson shared it and now I would like to as well, only I am going to answer the questions as honestly as I can. I am not very good at bragging or talking about my art to someone I have just met and I thought this would be a great exercise for me and maybe help someone else along the way...

1. What would you and others say are five of your personality pluses?

Well, I could look up the top five personality traits from Google (which I just did), but that doesn't seem very fair. Off the top of my head, I would have to say that I am open minded, passionate, responsible, modest, and hard working.

How do these apply to my art you may ask?
As an artist, I believe that it is imperative to be open minded, like a pre-requisite. If you're not open minded, than how are you going to be able to create any art or enjoy the work of others?

I was going to say compassionate, which is definitely one of my personality traits, but I would like to add passionate for the sake of this exercise. I feel very passionate about my art even though I have a difficult time expressing myself. This is definitely something that I need to work on.

I am a fairly responsible person. A good trait to have when you have a creative business or are working with others on a collaboration, volunteering, or working in a gallery/museum setting.

Modesty can be good and bad. Good because you don't want to come off vain and brag about your art so much that no one wants to even look at it. Bad because you can be too modest and so quiet that no one even knows your an artist since you never even tell anyone.

Hardworking is one trait that I'm not afraid to talk about. I am a glutton for punishment when it comes to work. I love to work, whether it is at home working in the garden, doing housework, or working out in the studio. And this is good when you're an artist because there is ALOT of work always that needs to be done. And I love every bit of it!

MuddyPotts

2010-07-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

Oriental Carmel Vase

Buttercup Planter

Pretty Pink Blackie Planter

This week has just flown by! I can't believe it's already Saturday! I am getting ready for the Faun and Flora Show at the 3rd Street Gallery in Westcliffe. I'll be entering a new sculpture, a couple paintings, and perhaps a couple pieces of pottery. Excited to be in a show!

My nephew is visiting from Denver and we've been having lots of fun and getting some work done around the house. The other day we took down some siding that is in the pottery studio, rearranged some and did a nice clean up. It looks great in there! Today we're going to start a new sewing project. Either a pillow or an apron. =)

Camp O'Haver

2010-07-27T08:45:00.001-07:00

o'haver lake

family photo (oscar hates his pic taken)

My family and I went camping this weekend! It was so much fun! Last week we scored a great little camper from Craigslist and couldn't wait to take it out!

the moffat motel

Now that we're home, it's time to get back into the swing of things and back to the studio!