SOLD! Open Studio Day at Sandy's

Have ya noticed how blessed I am to be surrounded  by so many smart - creative women??  Reconnecting with Sandy Shelenberger was one of my better ideas of the year.  That women is a bundle of creative energy and it spills over onto anybody that is around her.

Sandy was kind enough to invite my husband and I to participate in her Open Studio which she turned into  a Make-A-Difference Day.  Her smart idea was to throw an Open Studio with her artisan friends and have proceeds go to the Humane Society (since she loves dogs!).  She ran a chinese auction, bake sale and artist donation to support the cause. Plus  she makes it an annual event which now people are looking forward to.

So with that, Paul and I brought some of our creations to show off.  Joining us was Tammi Hzatry who was burning gourds and Nancy Hendricks who brought her gorgeous flaming bead jewelry.  Sandy, of course, displayed her lovely surface design quilts and paintings. She also used it as an opportunity to promote her encaustic classes.  There were also amazing Alpca batting and scarves from a local farmer.  Its a wonder how soft alpca is!

What a day we had!  Although it was rainy outside, there were about 50 people who braved the elements to come see our wares.  Now, normally I'm not an envious woman.  I love to celebrate my friends' accomplishments and the things they own.  Still  - when it comes to Sandy's studio - I have serious studio-envy.  Its such a lovely space - sky lights, tons of track lighting, a big cutting table, a design board to drool over and walls of counter space.  She also has a big walk in storage closet and a vented paint room.  Sighhhhhhhhhhhh

As you can guess, it was a pleasure to spend the day there meeting the people as they went through and hearing their comments.  Open Studios are such a good idea since I think people don't realize what we actual do and where we actual do it.  When they can come for a visit and see the space it brings the whole art process alive.

The good news of the day was that both Paul and I sold pieces.  I sold Sonlight, which is the first of my cross series.  Paul sold his lovely burl top table he just finished for the fair.  That table was the hit of the day

So all and all it was a VERY fruitful day.  We met many great people, we got to connect with fellow artists and we brought home a little cash.  Ohh and for those who are wondering. . . .we did NOT adopt one those cute pound pups they were showing off!