mb art studios.

screenprinting.

2011-07-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

i FINALLY got around to creating my first screen and printed some hand drawn images onto clay! it's a small clock, but i love the look of the print. plus, you can't go wrong with black and white. smiles, mb.

2011 summer camp at the riverschool!

2011-06-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

mb art studios is collaborating with kidscape productions to offer an amazing week long summer camp at the riverschool this year! you can sign your child(ren) up for a full day of acting and visual art or a half day with acting in the am and visual art in the pm. also, you have the option for signing your child up for for as many days as your like. contact me at mary_mbartstudios@yahoo.com and i will email a flyer to you pronto! -mary

lighting of a fire.

2011-03-17T15:46:00.001-07:00

i cannot wait to see the documentary, "race to nowhere". it will be shown at UNR on the 27th of this month. tickets are free! more info at http://www.racetonowhere.com/.

students' work.

2011-02-23T17:06:00.000-08:00

it's been a while since i posted any of my students' work...simply not enough time! this month, they worked with acrylics and are moving on to printmaking in march. here's a peek at them creating their ton schulten landscapes.

life.

2011-01-30T22:02:00.000-08:00

i came across these wonderful words and just had to share them. enjoy.

xo mb.

january art workshops!

2011-01-11T18:20:00.000-08:00

this month i'm offering two weekend art workshops for children ages 4 1/2 - 10 years old. the 1st workshop involves each student making a 2011 calendar using ink and watercolors. the 2nd, 2-day workshop involves each student making a clay pillow with a valentine's day theme. contact mary at mary_mbartstudios@yahoo.com or 775.745.2800 for more info!

moving onto watercolors.

2010-12-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

my students are creating with watercolors for the next two months! i just had to post photos of their calendar creations. what a delight to look at such amazing shapes and colors for a calendar!

happy holidays! mb.

cool clocks.

2010-11-15T18:16:00.000-08:00

my students ages 4-6 created clocks that are simply so cool and unique. there are a total of 6 kids in the class and 5 of the clocks cracked in the kiln during the 2nd firing. i have no idea as to why. i've glazed back together a few of them and they look good as new. they have a "carl sagan" feel and are about like the universe with the concentric circles. i wouldn't mind looking at these to see what time it is throughout the day!

photos and words on clay.

2010-11-15T17:32:00.000-08:00

so love these tumblers! there were made by my students using their own hands. after being fired, they used an underglaze pencil to add a border then applied clear glaze. they were fired again and then they applied special decal paper of a photo of their choosing and also their own words. i asked them to finish "i am..." with 5 descriptive words that best describe them as an individual. they are all so creative!

clay holiday workshops.

2010-11-13T19:22:00.000-08:00

mb art studios will be offering clay holiday workshops this December to children ages 4 - 10 years! There is nothing better than giving a handmade gift that was made with your child's own hands. Workshops are scheduled as follows:

modern tree and star ornaments (total of 6)

sat, dec 4th 10 am - 11:30 am (no longer available)

sun, dec 5th 10 am - 11:30 am

cost $60 per child

owl and vintage bird ornaments (total of 6)

sat, dec 4th 12:30 pm - 2 pm

sun, dec 5th 12:30 pm - 2 pm

cost $60 per child

modern bell and star ornaments (total of 6)

sat, dec 4th 3 pm - 4:30 pm

sun, dec 5th 3 pm - 4:30 pm

cost $70 per child

For more info or to reserve a spot for your child, contact mary at 775.745.2800 or mary_mbartstudios@yahoo.com. If signing up, please provide your child's name, age, and workshop date and time.

Also, be sure to check out my custom holiday ornaments on my website under "mary's pottery".

Happy Holidays!

xoxo mb.

fresh students clay pieces out of the kiln.

2010-11-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos of my students' ceramic wall pillows. Some of the students made pillows out of red clay and also white clay. I chose a landscape scene for the white clay project. Students created the foreground grass area with number and letter stamps, added a bird shape from a vintage cookie cutter, then topped it off with a sun, crown, and a button eye. The wall pillow is open at the top and can be hung right on to the wall and used as a vase as well.

For the month of November, students are creating ornaments every week! photos to follow.

tweet tweet.

2010-10-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

come check out my new line of holiday ornaments in my etsy shop at http://www.mbartstudios.etsy.com/! They are handmade by me with a vintage cookie cutter and then stamped and/or printed with various modern and simple designs and text. Believe it or not, i have more designs coming...it's such a fun, modern, and simple shape!

art classes!

2010-10-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

Classes for my children's, 9 month art program started up again at the beginning of Sept. I am finally getting around to posting photos of their amazing work! Up through the end of Nov., my students will be working with clay and learning the techniques of hand building. Here is a sample of some of their creations! Lots of functional pieces such as platters, tumblers, bird feeders...

new quotes in etsy shop!

2010-09-27T20:09:00.000-07:00

my helper has me so organized that i am finally getting some things done in my studio with my line of ceramics! i just added 5 new quotes to my etsy shop and will start carrying most plaques in stock starting next month. also, my work can now be found locally at sundance bookstore, rockaboo, and ryrie's art & home. I'll hopefully be adding a few more local stores in the coming week. Be sure to take a peek at all of handmade goodness and daily reminders in my shop at www.mbartstudios.etsy.com.

my new wall boxes with photos...

2010-08-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

a sneak peek at one of my new wall boxes, which are now available in my etsy shop. i love photography and it's so much fun to partner it up with clay.

a handmade, treasured wedding gift...

2010-07-30T08:23:00.000-07:00

Amber, a sweet 5 year old girl, created this vase (with just a little guidance from me) as a wedding gift for one of her mother's friends. How lovely to give something made with a child's hands that the couple can treasure for years to come. The piece has the couple's name and wedding date stamped. Simple and beautiful.

Clay Camp Artwork!

2010-07-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

My clay summer art camps came to a close this week. The campers glazed all of their creations and I was able to get them into the kiln right away. Rex Ray inspired wall hangings, more clocks (self-portaits), vases (paul klee bird/rooser style), little houses, and pendants. Once again, the beauty of their art is reflected in how different each piece looks and their wonderful loose lines and shapes.

I'm taking August off from my art classes to recharge and more time with my two beautiful children. I'm so excited to be going to the Renegade Craft Fair in San Francisco this weekend. I know I will find lots of inspiration and hopefully a treaure or two to bring home.

Hope everyone has a happy August!

feelin' the love...

2010-07-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

My shop on etsy (http://www.mbartstudios.etsy.com/) has taken off the last two months and I am coming close to selling 100 ceramic pieces in my shop! To share the love, I'm going to surprise the customer of my 100th piece sold with a free ceramic goody. smiles, mary

kids in nature...

2010-07-04T19:07:00.001-07:00

"Nature is a warm sensory bath that can counterbalance the cold overwhelm of too much activity, information, or stuff. Time in nature calms and focuses; for most children, it takes only a few minutes for them to begin to explore. Watch as they seek out places that feel particularly right to them, as they gather symbolic objects-leaves, sticks, bits of moss-that they discover. You can't manipulate nature, it must be delved into; it's a vibrant but neutral canvas onto which a child can pour their creativity." - Kim John Payne

summer art camp cont.

2010-07-04T15:43:00.001-07:00

The clocks came out of the kiln this week and the campers created rex ray inspired plaques that they painted with underglazes. Photos to follow in about a week.

The watercolor campers created their own hundertwasser inspired "environmental" posters. I so LoVed this project! Once again, lots of color and amazing lines and shapes.

The 1st session of my summer art camps just ended. My kids and I will take a one week break and will be back for a 2nd session with clay!

summer art camp...

2010-06-26T07:45:00.001-07:00

The ceramic tumblers and pendants came out of the kiln this morning. I'm so excited to show the campers their colorful creations next week! They also created modern flower clocks that will be ready for glaze next week.

In my watercolors camp, the students learned a bit about Picasso and reproduced one of his works of art. They turned out all so different and lovely. The last one shown looks a little like Picasso, with his big round eyes.

Stay tuned.

new ceramic wares!

2010-06-22T13:19:00.001-07:00

I've finally got around to making some ceramic jewelry...thanks to a customer who lighted the fire under me to get it going! I'm starting out with necklaces...pendants in organic shapes and hearts. Some with added texture and various words. They are topped off with hemp string and all the necessary items such as lobster claw clasps, etc. I've also created key chains! These items will be added to my etsy shop by the end of the week. Simply visit mbartstudios.etsy.com.

Feel Good Shop of the Day : mb art studios!

2010-06-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

Feel Good Shop of the Day : mb art studios!

Summer Art Camps...

2010-06-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

My summer art camps (5th year!) started this week. I'm offering a clay camp and a watercolors camp. Here is a sneak peek at the clay tumblers and pendants the children created. They are to be glazed next week. Also, here are a few finished Rex Ray inspired paintings! I just love his work and the children really enjoy reproducing his art. Here's a photo of some happy campsters!

Also, I had a custom order request for a ceramic pendant. Last night I created several and can't wait to get some glaze on them and then tie them off with some lovely string in different textures and colors. Stay tuned...

smiles, mary

Clock finds: my today's top 5

2010-06-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

Clock finds: my today's top 5

Student Art Show!

2010-06-14T15:35:00.000-07:00

The photo above is of Kate, one of my students, and me at my annual art show that is held for all of my students. Each student is asked to bring one piece of art that they created during the past 9 months in my studio. It was obvious that my students felt special having their work on display. As another parent put it so well..."I think it is so important to make a big deal out of art just as you would for a soccer game or a recital".

Here's to a summer filled with lots of nature and creativity! smiles, mary

Teacher Gifts...

2010-05-30T21:07:00.001-07:00

The school year for my children is coming to an end and I wanted to make something unique for both of their teachers. I came up with the idea of asking the students in each classroom to give me one word that best describes their teacher and stamp it on a clock. Here is what they came up with...

more colorful acrylics and a father's day project...

2010-05-27T07:44:00.001-07:00

My students last week created more birds...this time birds that were inspired by Paul Klee...I seem to gravitate toward his work. The children also love his lines and the bright colors that he used. My older students worked on a reproduction of a piece by Rex Ray...a living graphic artist from San Francisco. I could not find the title of this piece. I so enjoyed watching them layer their work and focus. The final pieces had so much detail and variety of color and line. The children also seem to really enjoy this project.

This week, my final week for the 9 month school year program, I decided to have the students switch to watercolors. I wanted to capture their words for a father's day piece and it's a bit easier to do than when using acrylics. The works of art were also inspired by Paul Klee....Sinbad the Sailor. Lots of grid work and bright colors. Their words are priceless...

I learned so much during the past 9 months, especially about color and layering. The ideas for next year's program are swirling around in my head! Classes will start up again in September.

An art show of my students' work this year is going to be held at Nevada Fine Arts on Sunday, June 13th (2 - 3:30) at Nevada Fine Arts. It is open to the general public. The students absolutely love showing off their work! Hope you can make it.

Jessie Beck Art Auction!

2010-05-19T19:35:00.001-07:00

Jessie Beck Elementary School held their annual "Fund the Arts" event this year at the Calfornia Bldg. A gourment dinner was prepared by renowned chef Gerard Nebesky, which was delicious! The event included a collaborative student art silent auction and raffle packages. The event was a huge success, bringing in much needed funds to help the school. Here are some photos of 3 auction pieces that I organized with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade classes. So much fun!!

Lovely Vases...

2010-05-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

I received a custom order for several vases from one of my loyal repeat customers! Here is one set of vases...she is a mother of 3 boys. They look a little British with the crowns and the blue and white colors, don't they? These are the largest vases I have ever made. Each one is about 10" tall with a diameter of 3 1/2". I'm excited to make more vases using my own style and making them even taller!

Acrylics...

2010-05-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

All of my students moved onto acrylics for the month of May. They started off with an owl project. The younger ones created their owls on butcher paper with black and white acrylics. Where as, the older students created larger owls on red paper with white acrylics. Lots of pattern and amazing shapes! The next class, they created roosters! The lines on these roosters are are so different and the colors are delicious. The children are really loving acrylics and I can't wait to see what they create during the next two classes...

Custom Father's Day Plaques...

2010-05-09T17:50:00.003-07:00

Fathers always seemed to get gypped on Father's Day...schools out and the odds of a handmade gift that lasts a lifetime from their child is slim...us Mothers have a lot on our plates! Also, they are so much harder to buy for than a Mom. So...I've come up with with the idea of a handmade plaque the I create that incorporates your child's own words about their Father and a place to attach a photo of your child. The price of each plaque is $40 and takes 2 weeks to turn around. Available colors are black, dark blue, and denim blue.

To get your plaque, either contact me to hold a spot for your child at Rockabye on May 30th between 12 pm to 3 pm or place your order on my website and provide your child's words on the order (more info available on my website). Each plaque is topped off with a wire and is then dropped off at Rockabye and ready for pick up. What Father wouldn't appreciate something so personal!?

On-line orders must be placed by June 4th in order for your plaque to be ready by Father's Day. Just convoy me at mary_mbartstudios@yahoo.com or 775.745.2800 with any questions.

Getting Ready for the Holidays...

2010-05-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

Next week I will be busy making holiday wares....with my new employee, Lisa! A post that is just about Lisa will follow soon. We will be making a lot of ornaments in addition to my clocks and plaques. Here is a sneak peek at my new ceramic bells. I'm so pleased with how my first batch came out...full of pattern, texture, and imperfections. I will also be making them with inspiring words and offering various yummy colors. The sound of them is lovely and sweet.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful Mother's Day! -mary

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-07T22:27:00.001-07:00

I offered a workshop for Mother's Day where children could create a ceramic tumbler for their mother...the theme was "birds on a wire". The above tumbler was made by Elyse, a very creative 5 year old. Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful Mamas out there!

Collage, Fish, Birds on a Wire, and Happy Trees

2010-04-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

For the remainder of April, the older students created a few more collage pieces, incorporating photos of themselves. Who wouldn't want to have a piece of art with butterfly wings behind themselves or stand on top of the world?! While creating collages this month, some of the children just seem to drift off to the world of... "I have glue on my hands" and become fascinated with picking it off. I can relate...I did that as a child myself. On the other hand, a few of them wanted to wash their hands every 5 seconds! In the above projects, they used map and music paper,butcher and watercolor paper, postage stamps, watercolors, acrylics, sharpies, and pastel. Overall, they seem to really enjoy it...

My 3 year old students created fish, birds on a wire, and trees using various mediums. Amazing lines and lots of energy!

Through the end of May, my students will be working with acrylics and getting messy. Stay tuned...

A Little Treat...

2010-04-26T16:31:00.001-07:00

Today was such a treat for me. I've been wanting to meet and talk with another local art teacher for quite some time now. Pick her brain about what she does and how she balances motherhood, her own art, and teaching. I also hoped for the possiblity of getting to watch her in action while she is teaching to her students. Well...today it all lined up and and I got to do all of the above. She was such an inspiration and also such a reflection of my experiences. I walked away having learned a few things and I also got a chance to see what it is like to teach art to middle school aged children...aye yi yi...what a difference. Who knows where my path will take me in the years to come. Thank you, Julie. - mary

April...Collage & Mixed Media

2010-04-08T22:21:00.001-07:00

During the month of April, my 3 year old students will be creating works of art with various mediums and all of my other students will be creating a collage each class.

We started off the 1st week with the 3 year olds making "suns" Eric Carle style using a printing method and a paintbrush. The older students created a "bird" collage using various papers, which are both cut and torn. After gluing everything down, they finished off the backgrounds with acrylics and colored markers.

Stay tuned...

Etsy Treasury Pick!

2010-03-29T10:03:00.001-07:00

coolranchstudio over at etsy.com included my ceramic dish above for one of her "grayscale" treasury picks! Check it out: www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=122328.

More Watercolors...

2010-03-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

Students continued with their watercolors projects through the end of March...

The older students created a herd of horses using the same vibrant colors as the younger students used the week before. The following week they created an oceanscape with a view of the sea life underwater.

The 4 - 6 year olds created rainbow fish trout, inspired by the author and illustrator, Douglas Florian. They also created oceanscapes. They turned out simple and lovely with a simple sun and a little sail boat sailing over their blue waters.

The younger 3s created dragons/dinosaurs/monsters that were inspired by the art of Jean-Michel Basquiat. This class is all boys and they really got into creating their own creature. The following week they created their oceanscapes, very simple and abstract. The piece shown above has a shark added!

Looking at these oceanscapes makes me yearn for the approaching summer days at Tahoe! Next week, we are moving on to "collage". The students will be using watercolors, pastels, sharpies, colored pencils, and printmaking. I can't wait to see what they create!

finished "Castle and Sun" pieces, horses, and 3 year olds painting "Pollock" style...

2010-03-12T10:34:00.001-08:00

My older students finished their Klee inspired "Castle and Sun" pieces this week. The results were amazingly beautiful...unique lines and so much color.

The 4-5 year olds created a landscape and horse piece with watercolors, colored marker and pastels. They have a "mexican" folk art feel to them...don't you think? Again, all the horses are so different and the colors are so happy.

The 3 years got wild and created a watercolor piece without ever touching their paintbrush to the paper...Pollock style that is...they also added a bit of colored sharpie. You should have seen what they looked like after the project...so much fun!!!

Klee's Castle & Sun, Stacked Animals, Flower Still Life

2010-03-09T08:41:00.000-08:00

Last week my older students started a 2-class project...Klee's "Castle and Sun". They used a ruler and a tape roll to get their geometric shapes started. After finishing off their lines and shapes, they started to fill them will color. Next week they will finish painting their pieces with 7 - 8 more colors.

My students ages 4 - 6 created "stacked animal" watercolor pieces. They started off drawing their animals with a thin sharpie and then filled in each amazing creature with color!

The 3 year olds got to touch, smell, and really open their eyes to a flower. They then created their own flower using a sharpie and filling in their shapes with watercolors.

I hope these photos inspire you to go and create something beautiful! smiles, mary

Giraffes and Numbers & Letters

2010-03-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Continuing with watercolors as their main medium, my older students created giraffes with lots of pattern and color using pastels and markers. Some of them take on a "dragon like" appearance and no two are alike. The younger 3 year olds experimented with number and letter templates using pastels, marker and watercolor.

Paul Klee and This is the House That Jack Built...

2010-02-21T15:40:00.001-08:00

This past week my older students created their own version of Paul Klee's "Senecio...also known as "Head of Man Going Senile". Lot of lines and geometric shapes. Their pieces were created with watercolors, pencil, and pastels. Paul Klee is well known for his use of color and these works of art have a lot of that!

The younger 3 year olds looked at and listened to "This is the House That Jack Built" before drawing a house of their own. They also used pastels and watercolor paints. It would be such a lovely world if more of our homes looked like these!

Hundertwasser and Snowmen...

2010-02-14T18:47:00.001-08:00

This week my students created Hundertwasser-inspired watercolor paintings that included colored pencils and pastels. LOTS of color and lines!

The 3 year olds each created their own snowman...caught in a blizzard!

Happy "Love" Day! smiles, mary

We Love Our Local Farmers!

2010-02-14T18:34:00.000-08:00

Our local food coop in Reno is holding a dinner for up to 30 locals farmers today! The dinner is being held at The Rainshadow Charter High School. The coop was looking for various things to put into baskets for the farmers and I cooked up these little hearts...

Heart Landscapes...Storypeople Style

2010-02-12T16:12:00.000-08:00

My students got the chance to work on another landscape. This time they created a field of poppies inside of a heart. They topped it off with what "love is..." to them...their words and misspellings are priceless. The words highlighted above are Claire's...a 4 year old girl.

My 3 year old students created large landscapes with pastels and watercolors. It is so much fun to watch those little ones paint...

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Winter Landscapes...

2010-02-03T10:42:00.001-08:00

My students created winter landscapes with watercolors, colored pencils, sharpies, and pastels last week. We discussed cool and warm colors as well as how artists create the illusion of distance. The younger three year olds created large Kandinsky inspired paintings with pastels and watercolors. They painted with their paper taped to the wall and got to use their whole body while painting...just right for a 3 year old.

Valentine's Day Wares...

2010-01-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

Fresh out of the kiln this morning ready to be dropped off at local stores tomorrow morning...

sOme seRious superNovas!

2010-01-26T10:56:00.001-08:00

My students created these supernovas last week with pencils, watercolors and pastels! We first read a book with pictures taken by the Hubble Telescope and talked about everything from nebulas to blackholes...very cool stuff. For those of you who don't know, a supernova is an exploding star. The 3 year olds created their pieces wet-on-wet.

Have to end this post with one of my favorite quotes..."We are one species. We are starstuff." - Carl Sagan

Black & White Cats...

2010-01-26T10:43:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of the black and white cats that my students created using sharpies and india ink. The three year olds created their own cats as well! Meow, Meow, MeOw!

A New Year...A New Name.

2010-01-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about changing the name of my little art business for a while now. I feel as though my art has grown up a bit and my business name should follow suit. So...goodbye to "Little Pumpkin Potter" and hello to "mb art studios". Sounds a bit more serious and I'm ready for it. My new website name, www.mbartstudios.com, will be live soon and my blog is a go.

smiles, m.

Appearance on HGTV's Show "That's Clever"...

2010-01-14T11:42:00.000-08:00

A few years back, HGTV saw a clock that I made on etsy.com and asked me if I wanted to be taped for their show "That's Clever"...a half hour series that highlights the contemporary crafting scene across the US. At first I thought their email was a joke and next thing I knew they were out filming me and my kids for the show. They filmed me making a clock that I use to make with a rocket for a child's room. My work has changed so much since then...

The episode is "finally" scheduled for this Tuesday, January 19th at 7:30 am e/p. You can read more about it on HGTV's website: hgtv.com. For those of you who have never seen the show, they get the artists to act, well....rather silly. I just now have to find a friend who has cable so that I can see it!

smiles, mary

mb pottery...valentine's day wares!

2010-01-11T17:23:00.000-08:00

This is my first year creating my own ceramic pieces for Valentine's Day! A day to celebrate love...it doesn't get any better. Here is a peek at some of the goodies that will make their way to a few local shops such as Ryrie's and Postal Depot and also to my etsy store by the end of the month.

Black and White...

2010-01-11T17:15:00.000-08:00

My students kicked off January creating their first watercolor piece last week. We started with a "black and white" project using india ink along with ink pens. The older students discussed portraits for a while and the younger students looked at one of Tana Hoban's books on shapes...love her work. Another "black and white" project planned for this week as well...

Hand Sculptures...

2010-01-11T16:42:00.000-08:00

My student's hand sculptures came out of the kiln a few days ago...they all look so different and are so colorful! This was the first time I had any of my students make these and I learned after the fact that the original base was too small and they were top heavy. What to do? Make an extra piece of clay and attach it to the bottom and "voila"...sculptures that don't fall over!

Love Is In The Air....

2010-01-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

During the month of January, I will be offering Valentine's Day Clay Workshops for children ages 4-10. Classes are "drop off" and last 2 hours. Each class begins with a book and ends with one-of-a-kind, handmade, ceramic works of art! Each child will learn and experience various clay techniques of adding relief, texture, pattern, and the best part...they will add their own words to their visual art with stamps.

Classes are scheduled as follows:

January 16th

Heart Stones . 10 am - 12 pm . $40 per child

Love Plaque . 1 pm - 3 pm . $50 per child

January 17th

Love Clock . 10 am - 12 pm . $70 per child

Love Platter . 1 pm - 3 pm . $100 per child

For more info or to register your child for one of the above classes, contact me at mary@littlepumpkinpotter.com or 775.745.2800. Note classes will be held at my home studio located in central Reno near Plumb and Plumas. Finished pieces will be ready for pickup at Rockabye, a local children's store, by February 14th.

2010-01-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

A few days ago a mom-to-be, Amy, contacted me to see if I would come to the hospital to take impressions of her newborn's hands and feet. I have been taking impressions of little peoples' hands and feet for about 5 years now and have yet to take them at the hospital. I said "yes!" of course. Today I pressed little Avery's hands and feet into clay. There is something so magical about a little one who has just come into this world...

Masks...

2009-12-29T20:19:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos of some of the masks that my students created this month. It's amazing how a lot of them closely resemble each child. So cool...

Custom Order...

2009-12-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

A wonderful friend of mine ordered 3 plaques like the one shown above. I just love the words she chose to show her loved ones how much she appreciates them. Who doesn't like to feel loved and appreciated?

one busy kiln...

2009-12-17T20:01:00.000-08:00

Busy, busy month...

I delivered a batch of hand ornaments to Mrs. Grotting's class at Peavine Elemenary! Nice simple, white ornaments with the student's name stamped (thanks Carrie!) and topped off with hemp string.

My students created ceramic heart rocks for their Dads, flower and heart pendants for their Moms (I modeling the one that my daughter made for me!), and tree trays.

I also delivered several hand & foot impressions and a few gratitude plaques to Rockabye today. So, so cute...

My kiln still has ceramic masks, abc & 123 platters, and hand sculptures to fire! Photos to follow...

Happy Holidays!

The Clay Goodness Continues...

2009-12-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

The clay goodness continues....

My 3 year old students created "hand planters" and used yummy underglazes in various blues and greens. They also created small slabs with rolled coils inspired by Kandinsky's "concentric circles in a square". They look a bit like the universe...dont' they?

My older students created some lovely doves with red clay and glazed them in white with a touch of green and blue underglaze.

Also, Leslie, a wonderful Mom in Philadelphia, placed an order for several custom star ornaments.

More clay photos to follow through the end of December....

Goodies In My Etsy Store...

2009-11-30T06:32:00.000-08:00

I posted a few items in my etsy store yesterday. Etsy.com is am amazing on-line shop of handmade goodies from artists around the world. In the new year, I will be posting ceramic wares in my store frequently. You can check out my etsy store by clicking on the link on the right side of my blog.

Happy Holidays! mary

Gratitude Plaques, Holiday Lanterns, and Flowers

2009-11-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

These gratitude plaques have to be one of the sweetest projects that I have done to date with my students. Their words are priceless. The holidays lanterns came out of the kiln this morning and are crying out for candles. Last but not least, the 3 years old created these sweet little flower plaques.

What are you grateful for?...

Are Schools Killing Creativity?

2009-11-13T10:46:00.000-08:00

Lovin' The Red Clay...

2009-11-10T08:13:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos of my student's work made with red clay...leaves and owls. The colors are yummy! The kiln is busy firing their gratitude and flower plaques right now. This past week they made lanterns and coiled pots. Stay tuned for photos...

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

We had a Halloween Party yesterday...with a haunted house and all! Soooooo much fun. Hope everyone has a safe and yummy Halloween!

All You Need Is...

2009-10-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to burning a photo and a word onto a glazed earthenware piece using a ceramic laser decal. I can't wait to try out some different photos and also experiment with red clay and white glaze.

Bring On The Clay...

2009-10-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

October, November, and December is all about clay in my art classes. The children have created pumpkins, coiled apples, leaf bowls, leaf cut outs, and owls. Pieces have been made with both white earthenware and red clay. A few projects have been glazed as you can see in the photos above.

Outside of my regular art classes, holiday workshops were offered this month and the children created some simple white doves, which were impressed with different lace patterns, inspiring words, and finished off with fabric ribbon.

I also have been busy creating wares for a few holiday fairs to be held in November and December. I'll be offering an assortment of ornaments, tea lights, wall plaques, canvases, and clocks. For the first time, I've given porcelain a try and created a few tea lights and ornaments. More info on the fairs will be posted soon!

Now go create something beautiful! smiles, mary

Tooth Fairy Art...

2009-10-25T09:35:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when asked to do art with 20 patients from my children's dentist office...Dentistry for Kids! We decided on a "tooth fairy" theme and I wanted to incorporate their words as well into their art. Dr. Molina is holding one of the pieces that a child created. Even after given the same instructions, each piece turned out different and unique and are on display in their offices located in Double Diamond. Thank you Dr. Zeff and Dr. Molina for letting me be a part of this year's art workshop!...I had so much fun! mary

Printmaking...Part 2

2009-09-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

The students created their final printing projects this week in my art classes. Since my last post, the young ones created some large (22x26) beautiful poppy prints using cardboard and their fingers and they also created a dot print with qtips and their hand. The older children created some yummy apple prints with foam and also a large (22x26), flower print with cardboard, their hands, and qtips. Next week, the children will move on to clay for the next 3 months!

Printmaking...Part 1

2009-09-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Caitlyn, Age 5
Ben, Age 7

Lily, Age 4

Eli, Age 3

Cole, Age 3

I'm three weeks into classes and have had so much fun printmaking with my students. They experienced hearts (inspired by Jim Dine!), lines, circles, leaves, fish, and owls. We still have 2 more weeks of printmaking and will post more photos at the end of the month.

Happy Fall!

Fresh Out of the Kiln...

2009-09-09T12:39:00.000-07:00

The cookie jars from my last summer art class are finally done! Plus, the custom clock is finished as well. Here are a few photos.

Also...I just placed my order for laser decals and will start firing photos onto clay next week. I have been wanting to try that for a while!

Full Time In The Studio...

2009-09-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday...my little birds started school full-time. It was my first day in the studio from 9-3 in solitude. It was a bit eerie with it being so quiet, but it didn't take long for me to get use to it. I have a stack of custom orders that have been waiting for me. My art classes for the new school year start tomorrow...I am so excited. This year I have much more time to demo projects before hand. Here's a peek at a custom order that I started for my Mom's friend. It's a clock with a big heart, button impressions and is stamped with, "The mind determines what's possible. The heart surpasses it". I am one lucky girl...

Last Week of Art Camp...

2009-07-30T13:33:00.000-07:00

This was my last week of art camp for the summer...I can't believe it went by so fast. This week the students finished their watercolor paintings of flowers, birds, and picasso inspired portraits. The only remaining projects are the picasso inspired cookie jars, which still need to be fired. I'll be sure to post photos of them as soon as they come out of the kiln...

O'Keeffe, Picasso and the Birds Would Be Proud...

2009-07-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a peek at a few of the clay and print pieces from my flowers, birds, and Picasso art camps...simply delicious! The clay cookie jars from my Picasso class are still drying...they are quite large. Next week is the last week of art camp for the summer and I will have the month of August off to recharge and get inspired for the coming school year's art classes.

Parenting...

2009-07-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

"Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference." - Robert Frost

My Thumb Is Getting Greener...

2009-07-10T07:03:00.000-07:00

I tried "gardening by the square foot" this year and I am amazed with the results. Pumpkins, beans, and zucchini are all traveling up the trellis...a few friends have been surprised that it's possible to have them climb. I also tried out tomatillos, broccoli, and eggplant for the first time. This is so good for my kiddos to see...many of the veggies were started by seed and I also picked up many seedlings from Whole Foods. Here's to eating healthy, organic, and local produce!

Colorful Rocks...

2009-07-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Today my son and I held a "rock painting" art class Georgia O'Keeffe style. My son is almost 10 years old and he is already quite the entrepreneur...it was his idea to offer and teach this class. He recently started collecting coins and is looking at every way he can grow his collection! The photo includes a few of the rocks from class...the best thing about them is how they are all so different and colorful! We used acrylics...

Clay and Watercolor "Wild Things"

2009-07-03T09:35:00.000-07:00

My first session of summer camp just ended and I had so much fun watching these little artists create mermaids, pears, and monsters. These clay monsters are fresh out of the kiln this morning. This is the first time I tried a "majolica" style with the glazing and I'm pleased with how they turned out. My second session starts in a week...the little artists will be creating flowers, birds, and going big with Picasso. Happy 4th!

Love This...

2009-07-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

Clay and Watercolors...

2009-07-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

I couldn't wait to post some photos of a few of the finished clay and watercolor pieces from this week...they all turned out so lovely. Photos to follow on Friday from the "monster's" class.

Printmaking Magic...

2009-06-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the finished prints from this week. When you are printing with several children, it can be a bit crazy and fast paced, so that the ink doesn't dry before you print. All of the children were up for the challenge. I have to say that this medium is a bit magical...no two prints are alike. The little artists also started their "ink" and pastel drawings this week, which will be filled in with yummy colors next week..here is a little sneek peek before the watercolors. Stay tuned....

Summer Art Camp...

2009-06-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

My theme inspired summer camp classes started last week! The children created mermaids, pears, and monsters in clay...a little slab relief and coil action. Thanks to Terraworks (on etsy at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=107703) for the stamp ideas for the mermaid! "Where the Wilds Things Are" was the inspiration for the monsters...I can't wait to see the movie this year with my kids. The pear inspiration simply comes from my love of pears. The fired clay creations will be glazed next week. They also started a foam block for a printing project that they will finish this week. Also, they will start an ink drawing this week and will finish it off with watercolors next week. I'll be sure to share photos of the prints and watercolors. Hope everyone is having a great summer and is getting a chance to create something beautiful!

End Of School Year....

2009-06-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

Nine months of art classes just flew by...I so love teaching art to children! Here are a few photos of May's projects. They include...clay toadstools, chalk and acrylic "picasso portraits", and acrylic flowers on masonite. I am having my first student art show tomorrow night, June 5th, at Nevada Fine Arts from 6-8 pm. Come and see some of the incredible art pieces that students created this year!

My Summer Art Camp (3rd year!) starts in about two weeks and I am trying out a "theme" with each group of children. I'll be sure to post photos.

Hope you are enjoying your summer vacation. smiles, mary

Paper Collage...More Lollipop Flowers

2009-05-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos of last week's paper collage projects from my art classes. I repeated the "lollipop flower" theme and had the children paint various watercolor papers with watercolor and then cut out their own circles. The older children incorporated newsprint and printed paper in addition to their own painted creations. They finished off each flower with a stem. The results are simple and sweet. This week the children layered acrylics on masonite and I will be posting photos this weekend. They will be also glazing their clay toadstools next week and creating "picasso portraits" in chalk. Have a lovely weekend. -mary

Finished Teacher Gifts...

2009-05-13T15:32:00.000-07:00

The ceramic pieces I created with teachers in mind came out of the kiln this morning. Here are a few photos. They will be making their way to Postal Depot tomorrow morning. This batch included my first ever "clay canvas" with a quote by einstein. I so love quotes... -mary

Yummy Lollipop Prints...

2009-05-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Kali, Age 5

Macie, Age 5

The children created a layered print with two colors for the background and three colors for their flowers. The results were simply beautiful and each piece of art looked so different. I use the word "yummy" a lot and it always confuses my little one when I describe art as yummy. These lollipop flower prints are definitely yummy. Enjoy! -mary

Jessie Beck's Silent Art Auction...

2009-05-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

Jessie Beck Elementary School is once again having their annual art auction to raise funds for their art program that is run by volunteers. Every class does a collaborative project and the attendees (aka the proud parents!) get to bid on their favorite piece. I decided to do a clay slab project in my daughter's class inspired by Kandinsky's concentric circles. The overall clay canvas is 12" x 15". What do you think? The auction will be held this Friday the 15th from 6 pm-9pm at the California Building. Tickets can be purchased at Jessie Beck through the end of this week. Come see all of the cool artwork! -mary

Unique Teacher Gifts...

2009-05-08T20:45:00.000-07:00

The end of the school year is almost upon us. I think teaching has to be one of the most under appreciated professions out there. I so value my children's teachers and the difference they make in their lives and so many other children. Trying to find a way to let me them know how much I appreciate them is something that is not taken lightly. This year, I decided to offer a line of ceramic wares (bowls, trays, canvases, pencil holders) with quotes that have a teacher in mind. The photo above shows a few pieces that have yet to be cleaned up and fired in the kiln. Finished pieces will be available at Postal Depot, a family owned post office located on California Ave., starting May 15th with new items available through the end of the month. smiles, mary

Let's Do Nothing...

2009-05-08T20:38:00.000-07:00

I recently met two wonderful mothers who are sisters. One of them was looking to create something special for her husband, who recently wrote a children's book titled, "Let's Do Nothing". We ended up creating a slightly irregular shaped platter in white with black lettering capturing their children's hand prints. What a lovely and fun way to serve cheese and crackers...

Terra-Cotta Pots!!!

2009-05-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

The children created their own terra cotta pots a few weeks back in my art classes. The majority of the pots have been glazed and are going in the kiln tonight. I will post another photo soon. The pot shown was made by me as a demo for the kids. I decided to give it away as a gift and planted a little fern in it. I love the look of layered glazes...I used two different blues on this pot.

Speaking of planting...My kids and I planted seeds a few weeks ago and are excited to start our vegetable garden. I hope you have the chance to garden with your children...it's a little bit of magic.

2009-04-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day, Everyone! This watercolor piece was done by Kamden, a 5 year old boy. The second one was done by my son, Joshua. Both were inspired by Brian Andreas' Storypeople line. smiles, mary

Creative Impressions...

2009-03-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine asked me (last year!) to take her children's impressions in a unique and creative way. She has five children and the idea came to me of a layout with trees on each end and a bird traveling from tree to tree leaving a trail of stardust. Well, it's ready to go into the kiln tonight. Here's a photo of it prior to the final clear coat of glaze. What do you think? Here it is almost April...Thanks for your patience, Jennifer. -m.

Mixed Media...

2009-03-10T17:37:00.000-07:00

For March, April, and May, I will be mixing it up and the children will be creating with a different a medium or two from week to week. We kicked it off with markers and watercolors this month with the children creating wildflower bouquets with a tracing of their hand and their mother's hand...too sweet. We will be moving on to clay egg mobiles and clay egg bowls, white prints, fabric collages, card prints, terra cotta planters, a Storypeople inspired "earth" project, seeing double print, high-fire clay mushroom planters, pattern prints on tea towels, acrylics layered on masonite, and the last class of the school year is a chalk project based on butterflies and self-portraits. I can't believe Spring is so close. This year has been so rewarding and the children's work is so creative and free. I'll will be posting pictures the next three months as projects are completed. Enjoy and I would be so grateful if you could take the time to post a comment or two and let me know your favorite projects. smiles, mary

Clay, Clay, Clay...

2009-03-01T15:20:00.000-08:00

For the month of January and February the children are getting to know clay and work their magic with it. I think clay has to be the "favorite " medium for most children. They have created snowmen and snowladies, animal pinch pots, owl reliefs, Valentine's Day flower trays/platters and piggy banks. They will also be creating mice based on the book "Frederick", bird reliefs, sgrafitto and monotype projects, snails, and little villages. I have yet to fire most of the pieces, but will be posting photos as they come out of the kiln. This was my first time having the children use "red" clay and I love the look of the glazes with the undertones of red showing through. Plus it's fun for them to see that the clay comes in different colors. Enjoy looking at the photos and please post a comment if you have time!

Cool Quote....

2009-01-13T07:34:00.000-08:00

"For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only through love." -- Carl Sagan

Way to go, Adam!

2009-01-11T19:39:00.000-08:00

Adam McMahon, age 4, won 1st place through the City of Reno art contest: age category: 12 & under. This art contest was run through the National Art Program with the Judges from the art museum on Liberty Street . The Judges did not know when judging: the age of the child, gender, or name and all commented that they would proudly display Adam’s artwork in their home. Adam received $75 for 1st place and will also receive a scholarship from the art museum. This is a tremendous achievement for Adam and a big thanks to Mary for being such an awesome art teacher.

Written by, Jennifer Spoo -McMahon, proud mom of her son, Adam McMahon

Proud Momma...

2008-12-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

Okay...I have to brag just a little about my boy performing in the Willy Wonka play at the Grand Sierra Resort this week. Last year we saw Beauty and the Beast there and he was so inspired that he made his mind up right then and there that he was going to be in their next annual play. Well...he did it. He had to audition by reading lines, singing and dancing. Right before the audition, he was just learning how to read. But he didn't let that stop him. He also had to rehearse every Saturday for 2 1/2 months. I'm so proud of him and am so happy that a dream of his came to life. How many 9 year old boys do you know that would have the courage to wear a turquoise wig, fluorescent striped socks, and white overalls that come to their knees in front of a couple hundred people....Way to go Josh! -mom

Holiday Clay Workshop...

2008-12-10T11:13:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, I held a two day clay workshop and the children created these amazing mugs and dove ornaments from stoneware...high-fire clay. I'm not sure if the parents will be able to part with them for gifts for someone else. A cup of tea and a little peace anyone?

Coming Up For Air...

2008-12-08T19:21:00.000-08:00

The past two months have been a whirlwind of busyness in my studio. My impressions' business has been on overdrive for the holidays. Thank You to all the parents and grandparents in Reno for supporting a local, small business!! Here are few samples of holiday ceramic wares that I created for the Holiday Stroll held on California Street in Reno on December 11th from 5-8 pm at Postal Depot. It is my last event for the year to meet the Christmas deadline and will only be offering ceramic hand and foot ornaments at the event, in addition to selling my own ceramic wares. Happy and Safe Holidays!! My kiln and I will be enjoying the Christmas break. Cheers! mary