chroma projects

This past week was spent  cleaning, painting, and furnishing my new studio/gallery space at Chroma Projects downtown Charlottesville. I am proud and excited to be part of this vibrant art gallery and its community of artists. Initially I will primarily use this space to show my current work and to meet prospective customers. Eventually I am hoping to create a working studio or at least a sacred place where I can quietly think up new ideas, away from the demands and distractions of my home studio.

I will be in place for First Friday, Charlottesville's gallery opening night, on May 6 from 5 - 8, and I would love to see you! The main gallery will show beautiful drawings by Beverly Ress,  paintings by Paula Christman, and the black box will feature the film The Alexander Veil by Lydia Moyer.

On a different note, my friend Lily pruned her Japanese maple tree this weekend. Guess who received the trimmings? I see a big dye pot brewing in the near future...

avocado dip

Chopped up a bunch of avocado skins, added the pits, and set it all to simmer. Once strained the concoction made a surprising dye bath - the cloths came out maroon/rust/dusty pink pending on kind. While I had the pots on the stove I could not resist making a few bundles filled with fresh spring leaves, such as japanese maple, redbud, and roses... A wonderful end to a wonderful day. Happy spring.

willie

For my lovely husband's recent birthday I bought him a pair of willies. The jeans arrived bundled in craft paper and tied with ribbons made of denim remnants. They are dark blue, slightly rigid to the touch, with simple and subtle design details. Thanks to great communication and customer service, the fit of the jeans was perfect. The care instructions are clear and straight forward – wear often, wash not so often...

I have long admired Nashville based imogene + willie (I have featured them here before).  The clothing company is the brain child of Carrie and Matt Eddmenson, located in an old gas station where their beautiful pieces are created on site, utilizing American made materials as well as local talent and craftsmanship. I am hoping to visit in person on my way to Shakerag this summer. My mind is set on a pair of imogenes...