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!!!