Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Where practice and preparation meet

Today was an excellent day in the classroom.  On reflecting "Why?" I believe it comes down to the time I put into preparing and creating my own practice example.

We are beginning a new enameling project using the cloisonné technique.  It is fairly complex, and I have only created one of my own cloisonné pieces so far.  The piece I made in the workshop while learning was fairly small (a bit bigger than a half dollar).  The girls are working on 4"X6" pieces.  To say I am a bit intimidated by the scale of this project and steps involved would be an understatement.
HOWEVER, the supplies are bought (next time I will have them start with a smaller piece of copper) and the plan is set.  WE ARE DOING IT!!  Due to my lack of previous knowledge for this process, I have realized I MUST be in class and practicing at least 30 minutes early to feel fully prepared.  This gives me time to get together any supplies, practice own steps, etc.

After seeing how *calm the day was and how good I felt after class today, I may have to consider coming earlier from now on as a rule....  Hmmmmmm.

**Calm is relative considering they used jeweler saws to cut their copper.  There was constant scratching noise for an hour, with an audible SIGH when the last person stopped sawing for the day.  hehehehe- HS ladies with tools in the age of iPhones= HILARIOUS!!!

Stay tuned for pictures :D

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Grace to step out of place

I am grateful for my student's patience as I learn more and more about enameling and teaching. I have definitely had a bit of a learning curve this first quarter of teaching, and they have been very kind to me as I stumble over instructions and through new assignments.

Each time I start a new project, I try and think through the steps, take note of what may or may not work, and jot down what key points I need to emphasize, etc.  

Sometimes as I am standing in front of them presenting the project I feel like I have two heads.  The more I talk, the more out of place I feel.  I think, "Why is it I am doing this again?"  Then, as they ask clarifying questions and start planning their next move, I realize at least one of my two heads was saying what I wanted because they are actually comprehending what I was saying.  Their projects are thoughtful and creative.  They take what I say and push it.  They pull from what they have been learning already and incorporate that into what I was hoping they would accomplish on the new task at hand.

It is fabulous.

Even when I feel like I COMPLETELY flopped the instructions, they seem to understand.  If not, they say, "Wait, WHAT??!!" and we try again.  Typically with laughing involved.  Overall, they do not seem to notice all the things that feel glaringly wrong.  I suppose I am STILL my worst critique.

Just as my students do, I must continue to give myself grace as I stumble over thoughts and words.  As I say something, realize it is not the best way to go about the project and must take it back.  As I learn while they learn.  As I continue to come to terms with the fact that even though I am the teacher, I am not an expert.  AND THAT IS OK.  Class is over.  Onto a new day :D

Friday, September 26, 2014

TGIF

A week ago, I spent Saturday learning a new enameling technique (more to come in a future post). 

Immediately following was a whirl wind week!!  Project one finished by students, graded and turned back to them by me.  Grades posted online. Presenting the next project.  A pop quiz on color schemes (to help them think through their colors for the new project). Students beginning project two.  Me meeting with my mentor teacher for the first time (after forgetting to meet with her yesterday- OOPS).  And so on....

I now wait for my husband to come home so we can go camping!!!  HELLLOOOOOOO Fall :)  Of course this is the night he has to work late, so instead of brooding (too much), I will share some lovely work ;)

Here are some examples of the first project :D
These are 1"x2" copper pieces.  The project was used as an introduction to enameling and some of the techniques.  Enjoy, as they have done a wonderful job!!

Sgrafitto means to scratch through.  The students would apply a base coat (flux, opaque, or transparent) and fire the piece.  Then they add a second layer.  Before firing, they scratch through the top layer down to the one below.  Easier said then done, but here are two exceptional examples...

Students were asked to look through magazines to find compositions they could turn into a stencil.

They then spent time adding transparent colors over FLUX (a clear enamel) and transparent colors over white.  This helped them begin to understand transparent vs. opaque enamels, layering, stenciling, etc.

Wet packing is taking the dry enamel (think very fine colored sand) and adding some water to it to create a paste-like mixture.  Tools are then used to add color bit by bit, precisely where it is wanted (think stippling with wet, gritty paint).  Before drying the piece one can drag a toothpick or other tools through to create more of a color swirl.  The piece is then smoothed out, dried and fired :)
 I'd say we're off to a great start!!  Looking forward to seeing what they come up with next :D  Stay tuned...



Picture Day

Growing up, we never bought school photos.  My mom took really good pictures and loved to print and share those with family, so there was really no need to have the somewhat cheesy posed ones.

There were some years I never even saw what mine looked like, since they didn't print them if you were not buying them.  Other years, I remember, they would send us home with a teaser- a few printed pictures that you either bought or brought back to the school (what a waste).  I'm sure that tactic worked for some people, but not for my mom!

This year, for the first time in my memory, I have copies of the school picture taken.  Since I'm a teacher they gave me some for free!  The best of both worlds :D  Yesterday afternoon I enjoyed writing love letters to some people in my life.  I included in them these silly little trinkets.  Thanks school pictures for inspiring some much needed love to be sent around!!!

The one I am ESPECIALLY proud of is pictured below.  My friend Jane is one of the few people my age who I know consistently sends mail through USPS.  She typically makes her own envelopes out of lovely magazine photos.  She's even been known to make strange things in postcards.......... Naturally, I followed her lead.  This one's for you Jane ;)


Thursday, September 11, 2014

Hit the ground running

We are already halfway through our third week of school!!!  My students have really been working hard and getting a lot accomplished.  Soon I will post some samples of their work.

Today I gave another demo on an enameling technique I learned over the summer called wet packing, or wet inlay.  They were all very excited to see another way to manipulate the enamels.  They ask great questions, and overall seem to catch on the first time something is explained.  It's great!!  (I think I am getting spoiled)

Good questions they have asked to me today (and answers I found):

1) Why is there a little pit in the color here if I put the coat on evenly?
     - used too much holding agent
     - the enamel was on too think
     - a gas released from the metal underneath during the firing

2) Why is there black on here that was not before?
     - fire scale is popping off the trivets or firing racks during firing (clean with pickling or file)
     - If red/orange, many of them react with copper and turn black (put down a thin base coat first)

Something I have been wondering and noticing... Should the surface of the piece always be completely covered the first time it is fired?  For example, of I am using stencils, should I put a thin layer of flux or white on first as my 'primer' and then proceed with the colors on top?? OOOR, should I do part of the stencil, fire it, do the other part and then fire it again?

Students have been doing it both ways.  It seems if they have a base coat, it ends up pretty thick at the end of things.  If they don't though, fire scale flies up off of their piece and lands in the colors.  Also, a black edge os formed and they sometimes do not like that.

I suppose, without asking someone with more expertise than me, I should have them put a thin coat of something on first.  More research will be done.....  


Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Art in Object

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Object-by-modology/164978350377997

Above is a link to Object by modology's facebook page.  They have some really funky treasures inside.  Some original furniture and art pieces mixed with some vintage furniture and home goods.

I was introduced to Object during the CSArts Cincinnati adventure.  One of the shareholders, who really enjoyed the sleek modern feel of the white stippled piece she received, told the guys at Object about my work.  At the next party they came together to ask if I would like to sell my work in the shop.  YES!  Of course I do, thank you for seeking me out :)




I put several of my slip-cast pieces in Object this past Saturday (the white and green ones pictured to the right).  Now to wait and see how they are received by the purchasing public :D  Fingers crossed!!!

Thanks Rachel and Andrey for this opportunity!


Take two

This is my second week in the classroom, and it already feels so much better than the first one!  I also enjoy the fact that I teach the same thing two days in a row.  That way, if I explain something poorly in the first class or set something up funny, I get to improve the second time around :)

Woo hoo second chances ;)



Here's my best example of this so far: I went through the steps of how to enamel and then let the students try it on their own.  All of them got finished with each step about the same time, which made things over crowded.  It also meant they were hovering around the kilns (which made me nervous since they are set at 1500'F).  It was overwhelming and I was not sure how to stop the madness.  I felt like I was working retail on Black Friday!!

Day 2- I split the class in half.  I told one half to work on stencils while the other half enameled.  I also told the girls who were enameling to take turns and not have more than 4 people at one station.  SOOO much more peaceful, and therefore I was much more helpful and effective as a teacher!

Again, Woohooooo to second chances ;)  Hope you get a second chance sometime this week!!

-Kara

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

A final thank you to C-S-Arts. You guys ROCK!!!


I would once again like to express my gratitude to all involved with C-S-Arts Cincinnati!!!

- To my fellow artists, it was fabulous getting to meet each of you and see what diversity there is in the art world around the city.  Thank you for joining, that we might all have the chance to work together.

- To the judges, thank you for choosing my work!!  How validating as a young artist to be chosen among some veterans and much more established Cincinnati artists.

- To the patrons, thank you for purchasing a share and taking a chance on me (even if you didn't know you were doing so).

- To the Kennedy Height Arts Center, thank you for hosting us, welcoming us, paying us, and supporting us as well as many others while you reach out to your community and beyond.

- To the planning committee- WOWWW!!!  You certainly know how to throw a good party :)  Thank you for your volunteerism during this inaugural season.  Thank you for loving the arts and sharing that passion through your kind words, your attention to detail (in marketing, packaging, questioning, supporting, and the list goes on), and your genuine enthusiasm that radiated outward.  It did not matter how long of a day you had, you greeted each of us with a smile.  THANK YOU!

This was a blast :)  I look forward to watching this initiative grow more and more!
With love,
-Kara Sheldon
createdwcare.com

ps- check out the parties here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.612236465561199.1073741829.528714457246734&type=1

My mom (right) and I (center) enjoyed hearing what other artists had to say about their work.  Thank you for the pictures Paige!!

Monday, August 25, 2014

Ahhhh!

Did you ever have the nightmare where you were standing in front of your class, only to realize you were naked?  Remember how sickening that was?

This is how I began my first day teaching.  No, I was not naked, but I sure felt that way.  As I pulled into school for the opening day assembly, every parking spot was filled... all but mine that is.  I immediately began to get nervous, thinking I had the time of the assembly wrong.  I was able to take a deep breath and calm myself.

However, when I entered the school, it was silent.  I didn't hear a sound.  This was not right as I was entering from the back near where the auditorium (and the assembly) were.  I got to the auditorium and peeked in.  It was empty.  No one was around.  I had MISSED IT!!!

"Great." I thought,  "Now I have to go to my principle on the first day and apologize for not being there as he introduced the new faculty!"

I was so frustrated.  How had I missed that?  I checked the start time like 6 times to make sure I would be there on time.  I walked quietly to my art room.  Sure enough, the homeroom that uses the space was there.  They were all gathered back together after the assembly.  BLAH.  What a way to start things off.

Finally, I slowed down enough to seek out another teacher who also does not have a homeroom.  I asked if I had missed the assembly.  To my great relief the answer was NO!  WHEW.  Dodged a bullet that time.

-----

I told the above story to a friend of mine after getting home from an otherwise uneventful first day of teaching.  I confided in her that I still feel like I have no idea what I am doing.  I couldn't tell if the students were giving me blank looks because I was boring, new, they were tired, syllabus day is always a drag, or WHAT.  All I knew was the looks made me feel even more out of place, and like I had a lot of catching up to do if I wanted to keep my teacher title.

She kindly re-assured me.  She reminded me that most adults still find themselves in a learning curve- ESPECIALLY with a new job.  Receiving a degree and professional title does not immediately inject you with all the knowledge, experience and confidence to move forward without a care.

Practice helps, experience helps, trial and error help.  Deep breathes DEFINITELY help.  Friends help- one might even say they can be super heroes dressed in civilian clothing.  Thanks friend for the calming advice and for reminding me I am not the only one feeling this way ;)

And thank you Mr. Principal for starting the assembly later than I expected so that I had my first-day-"I'm naked"-freak-out in front of a peer and not my class!

Cheers, to the many days ahead!!!

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Letting go


I love color and texture.  Bold and dYnamiC.  Some may think my style is busy or over-the-top.  I think it's interesting and shows variety.

This week I went shopping for some new teacher clothes.  I had a blast hanging out with my friend Miska and trying on pretty much everything  that was school appropriate in my size.  I found several new pieces, including some much needed PLAIN pants.  They are in neutral colors with basic cuts.  They will go perfectly with my busy tops :D

I also allowed a few skirts to sneak into the pile (as a treat for buying such plain pants hehehe).  After an afternoon out I brought my treasure home to an already full closet.  Oh man... where was everything going to fit?

Today I spent time weeding through my current wardrobe to make room for the new additions.  I came across several dresses and skirts that I have gotten plenty of love out of, however I still find it hard to let them go.  Most still fit and look good on me.  However, I know I have not worn them in a long time and do not plan on wearing them anytime soon.  Therefore, they have been added to my "give away pile!"

I am officially saying goodbye to my oldest skirt, a dress I wore to my favorite couple's wedding, another I wore to see Rent live with my sister and two best friends, the one I wore on my 21st birthday, another to my wedding shower, and finally the one I wore out the night I said goodbye to my life as a single lady.  Thank you all for helping me grow in feeling confident, being there for important life moments, and reminding me of the good times every time I opened my closet and leafed through my wardrobe.  May you go on to serve others as well.

Hello new clothes.  New opportunities.  Change.  Challenges.  Options.  Variety.  I look forward to seeing what new memories lie ahead as I take the next steps in my teaching career!!!  I feel like it's the first day of school all over again :D

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Teaching 101

In a few short weeks I will begin my as an art teacher, with my own class room, at a HIGH SCHOOL.

Today, I went into my room and looked around, trying to decide where to begin.  The first thing I noticed was "Ms. Sheldon" written on a sign by the door as you walk in.  That felt good.

I sat at the desk, looked through the supplies, thought about lessons a bit, and then decided I didn't have enough answers to my questions to really get started on much today.  I chose a few reference books to take with me to look over in the next few days, and realized the time will be flying by between now and the first day of class. Questions began to pour in about "what if the students realize I am learning along with them and can barely stay ahead?  What if I do an inadequate job explaining the project or my expectations? and so on..."  All the questioning felt less good.

After a short time I decided I got what I needed for the most part, and that I could head out.  On the way out I stopped by the office to ask a question about the schedule (as I am part-time and my days are all a bit different).  I was given a planner with ALL the information I would ever need about schedules.  When I got to my car I started to think about how I wanted to decorate the cover of the planner.  Next I though, "Wait, are you people SURE I'm the teacher?  This could take some work.........."

Let the journey begin!

Friday, July 25, 2014

Gnomebody likes me (a sneak preview)


This little guy is currently set up in the Kennedy Heights Art Center as part of the C-S-Arts Cincinnati exhibit.  Since this picture he has been given a salt and pepper beard and some colored clothing.  He's set in a fanciful forest scene, just waiting for visitors ;)

Looking for a place to find some rest and release some lies you have been holding onto?  I recommend you check out this exhibit.  Here's why:
1) There is an interactive element where you can write self-deprecating thoughts and leave them behind for Mr. Gnomey to dispose of for you.

2) The KHAC has a wonderful porch where you can sit and relax.

3) They also have a BEAUTIFUL flower garden full of all kinds of wonderful things to see.

After your art/nature palette is full you can travel one block south to The Coffee Exchange in Pleasant Ridge to round the day off with some delicious coffee and good company.

I hope you consider checking out a new place in Cincinnati and the beauty that lies in adventures!
-Kara

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

C-S-Arts Cincinnati


The C-S-Arts Cincinnati exhibit is opened now through August 16th!!!  Stop by when you have a chance to enjoy the works of 9 local Cincinnati artists (including yours truly).  

There is an 'opening' this Thursday, July 24th from 7-9pm if you prefer to come during evening hours.

For more information on the exhibit or Kennedy Heights Art Center, click here: SHOW INFO

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

A House of Prayer for All Nations

The week I got my kiln set up, I saw a link on Facebook that announced Faith Church in Milford, OH was looking for a local artist to create a piece for the lobby of their church.  I thought, "Why not apply and see what happens?"

The deadline was midnight on Good Friday.  I had a quick sketch prepared weeks prior, but with other deadlines pressing in, etc. I had never made a more professional sketch.  I also was still debating whether I would be able to give this project enough time if I was chosen as the artist.  Overall, I did not feel properly prepare to apply.  However, I could not shake the feeling that I needed to at least try. Therefore, at 11:59pm on Friday I sent in my information, and thus Pray to Him all ye nations was born...

Faith Church asked the work be created around Isaiah 56.  Specifically verse seven "for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations."  I took the opportunity to practice relief sculpting, mixing various underglazes to create multiple ethnicities, ages and genders.
Sharon (pictured above on the right) was wonderful to coordinate as the church's liaison.  Also, a very special thanks to Brian who hung the piece with even more care a precision than I could have.  This was an incredible opportunity and experience :)

Sculpted clay, still wet.  Waiting to be fired.
Bisque fired with underglaze painted on.
Beginning on the watercolor background.
Final product.



Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Full and fulfilled

I spent 10 hours in studio today.  It was fabulous.  I probably only worked for 7 of those hours, but still- FABULOUS.  Also, who could say no to a lunch break with my sister-in-laws, watching the second half of Germany v. Brazil in semi-finals of the World Cup, and teaching my nephew a few things about ceramics???

I left with a full kiln on low, drying pieces to be bisque fired in the morning.  In progress pictures to come soon...

Sunday, July 6, 2014

So it begins...

After almost a 3-year drought (during my post college moving about) I am finally getting my hands back into ceramics and I'm LOVING IT!!!!  In fact, I have been super fortunate to be able to hit the ground running (sometimes literally).

Here's how:
1) A family friend offered a free kiln to my new mother-in-law (and by association me)


2) My in-laws graciously have allowed a space for me to set up an awesome studio for building and firing at their house

3) I applied and was chosen to the inaugural season of C-S-Arts Cincinnati.

4) My sketch was chosen by Faith Church to create a piece for their lobby.

5) Kennedy Heights Arts Center is allowing the 9 artists participating in C-S-Arts to put work into a gallery exhibition July 14th -August 16th.  (submissions TBD, pictures to come... wouldn't want you to have an excuse to NOT go to the show) Come check it out!!!