Monday, March 31, 2008

CRAFTY HAPPENING: dear toronto, and home sweet home

Here's a note from Dear Toronto, a community art project that invites residents (and visitors) to write a letter to Toronto. Their show is part of a cool set of community collaborations and neighborhood interventions called Home Sweet Home. Read on for deets....

dear toronto

Hello friends,

Dear Toronto, would like to invite you to our latest showing as part
of the Home Sweet Home Exhibition at the Gathering Space!

Opening night is Thursday April 3rd, 5pm-7pm. The exhibition runs
until April 30th.

Come out and write a letter or check out our giant window display!

Love,

Dear Toronto,
(Shannon and Petrina)

welcome@deartoronto.ca
www.deartoronto.ca
_____

About Home Sweet Home and the Gathering Space:

Home Sweet Home is a presentation of 13 community collaborations and
neighborhood interventions. Toronto artists collaborate with students
from Lucy McCormick, long-time shopkeepers along Dundas W., children,
seniors and residents of Evangeline House, to create engaging and
interpretive photography, textile, sculpture and installation
projects that explore their relationships to ‘home’ and the Junction.

The Gathering Space is located at Cool Hand of a Girl coffeeshop, 2804 Dundas Street West.
For more information, please visit www.gatheringspace.blogspot.com or
email gatheringspace@gmail.com.

CRAFTIVISM/EXHIBITION: playing doctor by shannon gerrard

playing_doc_image

The installation PLAYING DOCTOR brings together various components of Shannon Gerard’s multimedia project, BOOBS & DINKS: Early Detection Kits.

The softness and humour of PLAYING DOCTOR aims to eliminate some of the fear surrounding self-exam of one’s own precious privates. The nature of this project changes as viewers experience it. At first the kits seem like cute and hilarious toys (tee hee, boobs and dinks!) but then as people play with them, read the booklets and find the lumps, the experience shifts. Even though the plush multiples contain a sinister possibility—garden pebbles stand in for possibly malignant tumors—interacting with the project is a strangely calming practice. PLAYING DOCTOR tries to touch people's fears and human underbellies through the ultra feminized, "soft" form of crochet, through playful interactive video and performance, and through the revelation of the artist’s personal experience. Broadly, the project initiates conversations about our bodies and confronts the idea of human frailty.

Partial proceeds from the sale of the BOOBS & DINKS: Early Detection Kits are donated to the Ontario charity Cottage Dreams (www.cottagedreams.org) which connects recovering cancer patients with donated cottage spaces in Haliburton and the Muskokas.

Additional information and images can be found at www.shannongerard.org

PLAYING DOCTOR runs:

April 3 to 26, 2008
Opening Reception: Thursday, April 3, 7pm to 9pm
Open Studio
George Gilmour Members’ Gallery
401 Richmond Street West, Suite 104
416-504-8238
office@openstudio.on.ca
www.openstudio.on.ca
Gallery hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 5pm


group2_web
Photo by Jasmine Fitzwilliam

CRAFTIVISM: spring sock monk-a-thon

Spring Sock Monk-a-thon

Saturday April 5th is the Spring Sock-monk-a-thon, a craft- for- a- cause event where you can learn to make a sock monkey and donate your firstborn to a small South African. All materials are provided- though donations of materials are always appreciated! Funky socks, stuffing, buttons and embroidery thread are all ingredients for monkey making. Join us from 1-4 pm for good crafting and great karma. For loacation info, please contact lindsey@operationsockmonkey.com or check out www.operationsockmonkey.com.


Sock Monkey8

OPERATION SOCK MONKEY

Operation Sock Monkey is an initiative created to raise money, support and awareness for Clowns Without Borders South Africa, (CWBSA). CWBSA is an organization providing laughter, hope and healing to children in South African communities affected by HIV.

Handmade sock monkeys are sewn with love and sent on a trip to South Africa where they will find new homes in the arms of orphans and vulnerable children affected by HIV /AIDS.

OSM needs help in the form of crafters and sponsors- the more monkeys made and sponsored, the more smiles will be sent across the miles. If you’d like to make a sock monkey to send, please contact lindsey@operationsockmonkey.com for upcoming workshop details. If you’d like to sponsor and send a sock monkey, or for more information, go to www.operationsockmonkey.com.

EXHIBITION & GET SCHOOLED: cut and paste and kids classes at c1 art space

C1 art space

:: Gallery ::

Cut and Paste
April 5-27, 2008


This month will feature mixed media works incorporating collage and assemblage techniques.
Artists: Kathryn Boyd, Heidi Jahnke, Nora Kensington, Kelly Kirkham , Julie Ligier Belair, Jen Silk, Andrea Stokes, Erin Vincent and others

Gallery Hours: Thursday to Saturday 12 to 6pm, Sunday 1 to 5pm or by appointment

cut and paste c1 artspace
( Image: Andrea Stokes, Julie Ligier Belair, Kelly Kirkham)


:: Art Classes::
Kids

SATURDAY MORNINGS
Fun workshops for kids ages 4 to 10 interested in exploring a variety of mediums. Call ahead to reserve spots, and dress for mess!
10:30am to 12:00
noon
$18 per session or 5 sessions for $80 per child (materials and taxes included)

Please note: For the 5 session package, dates must be selected within the same season in advance. Any substitution for dates must be made at least one week ahead. No refunds for missed classes.

Mono-printing Pillow Toys –Saturday, April 5. Press and print designs on fabric to be made into a pillow or stuffed toy.
Puzzles–Saturday, April 12. Kids turn their own drawings into a unique puzzle the whole family can enjoy.
Wind Chimes –Saturday, April 19. Kids learn about texture and shape as create clay wind chimes for the backyard.
Pirate Day –Saturday, April 26. Kids make a treasure box and a pirate map to find it later.
Chalk Board–Saturday, May 3. Kids decorate their own black board for making notes and drawings.
Van Gogh Portraits –Saturday, May 10. Kids learn about Van Gogh and the proportions of the face to paint a self portrait.
NO CLASS –Saturday, May 17
Garden Sculptures–Saturday, May 24. Kids use clay to create a creature for the garden.
Pinatas –Saturday, May 31. Make a paper mache piñata for a summer party.
Under the Sea in Watercolour–Saturday, June 7. Learn watercolour painting techniques to create a underwater scene.
Weathervanes –Saturday, June 14. Learn about wind resistance while creating a colourful weathervane.
Cartooning–Saturday, June 21. Create cartoons while learning step by step drawing techniques.

FAMILY SUNDAYS new
Bring your child or teen and take a class together. These all ages workshops are designed to get you both involved and share some quality time together.

Call ahead to reserve spots, and dress for mess!
$25 (materials and tax included for one child and one adult.)
1pm to 2:30pm

SOCK MONKEYS

Create stuffed toys while learning sewing basics.
$25 (materials included)
Sunday, April 13 from 1-2:30pm

PAINT A PLATTER POTTERY PIECE FOR MOM
Kids and parents paint a special design on a keepsake platter for Mother’s Day.
$25(materials included)
Sunday, May 11 from
1-2:30pm

KIDS PARTIES
At home or at C1 art space.
$18 per child
Minimum of $180 for up to 10 children.
Maximum of 15 children (all materials included)
Contact us for more details.

Choose from a variety of party ideas for kids including:
Silk Screening Designs: t-shirts.
Clay: Mask Making, Magnets, Jewellery or Wind Chimes
Paint your Own Pottery: cereal bowls and banks
Mixed Media Sculptures: robots, sponge bob
Mixed Media Paintings: self portrait door or wall hangings
Sock Puppets

C1 art space
44 Ossington Avenue, just North of Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario M6J 2Y7
416 538-7999
http://www.c1artspace.com
info@c1artspace.com

VENDOR CALL: queen west art crawl 2008

Ownership and production of the Queen West Art Crawl has passed over from Artscape to the Parkdale Liberty Economic Development Corporation. Here is their call for participants in the next outdoor show in Trinity-Bellwoods Park:

QWAC_Header

2008 OUTDOOR ART SHOW & SALE

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Parkdale Liberty Economic Development Corporation is currently accepting submissions from artists, artisans and craftspeople who wish to participate in the Outdoor Art Show & Sale, as part of the 2008 Queen West Art Crawl.

WHEN Saturday, September 13th and Sunday, September 14th, 2008
11:00am to 6:00pm

WHERE Trinity Bellwoods Park, Toronto, Ontario
790 Queen Street West @ Strachan Avenue

You can find the Call for Submissions, Artist Application and other information about the Outdoor Art Show & Sale as well as the Queen West Art Crawl at: www.queenwestartcrawl.com

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at: qwac@parkdaleliberty.com

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Melody Brice
Arts Coordinator - Queen West Art Crawl
Parkdale Liberty Economic Development Corp.
www.parkdaleliberty.com

GET SCHOOLED: april sweater class at sew be it

An additional Spring class alert from Sew Be It:

Simple Summer Sweater

The perfect class for those ready to break out of that scarf-knitting rut!

knittingdog.

Conquer your first sweater step-by-step in four weeks. Top-down construction means you can try your work on as you go ensuring the perfect, flattering fit. Multiple customization options make this sweater truly your own!

In this class, you will learn to take measurements, knit in the round, follow a super simple lace pattern and complete basic garment shaping and finishing.

A stylish first sweater for the adventurous beginner!

Basic knitting skills—casting on, knitting, purling, increasing, decreasing—are a must.

Date: April 6, 13, 20, 27, Sundays
Time: 2-5pm
Price: $120 + GST

Materials:

Worsted weight yarn 61cm (24”) circular knitting needle in 4.5mm (US7) OR size required to obtain gauge

61cm (24”) circular knitting needle in 3.5mm (US4) OR size required to obtain gauge

Tapestry Needle

Stitch markers (optional)

Instructions on yarn selection and needle selection/swatching will be given upon registration

Sew Be It Studio
2156 Yonge Street
Toronto ON M4S 2A8
416-481-7784 (Please call to register)

www.sewbeitstudio.com

TALK AMONGST YOURSELVES

woah! rainy day today, does that mean the elusive spring everyone has been waiting for has finally arrived? maybe it's just tip-toeing in. again, i've been crocheting like mad, and doing a bit of quilting.
i love how zen making things by hand can be; it clears my mind and pulls my thoughts away from all the stressors and distractions of life and focuses them on my own two hands.
as part of the Toronto Craft Alert's goal to galvanize the city's craft community, we'd like to get a bit of a discussion going. discuss any crafty topic you like... we'll be re-posting this thread every monday morning, so that the discussions can continue in the comments section of this post.

Saturday, March 29, 2008

CRAFTY BIZ: visual arts ontario professional development workshop series

Professional Development Workshop Series from the Visual Arts Ontario

PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2nd, 6-8pm
Your portfolio is your most important tool in communicating your artwork to the art world. This presentation covers producing the contents of a portfolio, formatting, and packaging it to get your work the attention it deserves.

PHOTOGRAPHING YOUR WORK
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9th, 6-8pm

Jesse Boles (Edward Day Gallery, Doppelganger Imaging) will guide you through the process of capturing your 2D and 3D art on camera. Learn how to set up your digital camera and lighting to ensure professional-quality reproductions.

DIGITALLY IMPROVING YOUR DOCUMENTATION
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16th, 6-8pm

Jesse Boles will show you how to manipulate your digital images like a pro in Adobe Photoshop. Whether you want to adjust your image resolution or touch up your photographs, this workshop will teach you essential finishing touches.

MARKETING YOUR ART
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23rd, 6-8pm

How does an artist come to be well-known and critically recognized? What establishes their legitimacy in the world of art? How do these factors contribute to sales? Learn how to identify key audiences for your artwork, and the different ways to market yourself.

MARKETING ART ONLINE
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30th, 6-8pm

The internet presents a myriad of opportunities to bring awareness to your artwork: Websites, emails, and social networking are some of the marketing tools available today. Learn how to navigate these possibilities to create an enduring and effective online marketing strategy.

MARKETING ART INTERNATIONALLY
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7th, 6-8pm

Prepared in conjunction with the internationally-recognized Thrush Holmes Empire, this presentation is for artists seeking an international audience. Learn how to present yourself across vast distances and how to choose your targets and attract the attention of an audience abroad.

PACKING AND SHIPPING
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14th, 6-8pm

You have invested so much effort in finding galleries, clients, and art fairs; now to make sure your art gets there. Presented in conjunction with PacArt, this session deals with packaging your work safely, shipping, and customs.

GRANT WRITING
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21st, 6-8pm
Maximize your chances of getting that grant! This presentation helps artists discover how to find granting opportunities and how to write a successful application including project descriptions and budgets.

REGISTRATION

Each workshop is available for $50 for VAO members; $68 for non-members.
Or register for all 8 workshops at the discounted price of $250 for VAO members;
$285 for non-members (non-member price includes 1 year VAO Membership).

All workshops held at the VAO Gallery at 1153A Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1J4

To register: www.vao.org , info@vao.org, (416) 591 8883


*** Take the VAO Artists Poll****

Visit www.vao.org and click on the poll link. Tell us about your successes and challenges as a practicing visual artist!

Friday, March 28, 2008

FROM THE DESK OF TCA: The Motherlode of Craft Fair Lists

Father Winter may be dragging his heels, but don't let that get you down! The best way to battle the blues is to get out and get active in the craft community!

Our Toronto Craft Alert Event Calendar is the best way to stay updated on all the local crafty happenings, and with new events added every week, there are so many ways to shake off the cold and welcome spring!

Did you know that we've also started adding craft fair and event application deadlines? Now you can stay updated on all the coolest shows in your area, and get your apps in on time!

If you have any other local craft shows or fairs, please email your tips to us at torontocraftalert@gmail.com. More information and local show dates will be added as they become available!


GET SCHOOLED: new classes from sew be it

Some new Spring classes from Sew Be it Studio:

KNock_Off_pic

Knock Off - Copy Your Favorite Garment

They say there is no copyright in fashion. Do you have a pair of trousers that you just love and wish you can copy it, well, this is your chance. Bring your favorite garments, and we will show you how to take a pattern from an existing finished garment. This class will teach you how to knock off your favorite designs and create your own inspired looks.

Date: April 6 & 13, Sundays
Time: 10am - 1pm

Price: $135 + GST

* Please bring in a simple garment to Knock Off, no jackets or ball gowns please.


fashionillustration

Fashion Illustration

Fashion Illustration is way more than just drawing. It is the main form of communication for fashion and costume designers. In this introductory workshop you will learn how to draw the human form, proportion, how to depict fabric properties, patterns and more. Get your designs out of your head, onto the page and eventually they may be created in 3 dimensions. This class is important for anyone who aspires to be a designer, and for anyone who wants to learn the art of visual communication.

Date: May 10, Saturday
Time: 10am - 1pm
Price: $45 + GST


Sew Be It Studio
2156 Yonge Street
Toronto ON M4S 2A8
416-481-7784
www.sewbeitstudio.com


CRAFTIVISM: good catch power down for earth hour

good_catch_power down

Good Catch Activities Day
11am to 10pm
Theme: "Power Down"
March 29th from 8pm to 9pm

This is part of an international movement to reduce power consumption. Good Catch hosts an activities day for the Parkdale Community to come together to learn, create and educate ourselves about the power of becoming less energy dependent. Prizes to be won. Activities for all the family. Drum / Music Circle at 8pm to show our solidarity with Earth Hour 2008. We welcome submissions for participation and workshops. We'd love for some crafter input - especially anyone manufacturing or inspired by candles, or other away-from-electricity items. Please call 416-533-4664 or email us your interest.

Good Catch General Store
1556 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON M6R 1A6

NEW Store Hours:
EVERY DAY 9AM UNTIL 10PM

www.goodcatch.ca
416-533-4664
1888-MY-FOOD-1

CRAFTY HAPPENINGS: creativity classes & artist trading card swap

Creativity champion Lisa Pijuan-Nomura is offering another round of creativity classes for ladies, as well as hosting an Artist Trading Card session this weekend. Read on for details...

“As a workshop leader, Lisa brings a sense of excitement and passion few can match. Her enthusiasm rubs off on the participants, now co-creators, in a world of movement and creativity carefully explored and unleashed in a safe, fun-filled experience. Lisa is both a masterful facilitator and a catalyst for stepping into the unknown. With such warmth and humour, she truly creates a joyous atmosphere in her classes and workshops.” - Beth Mairs, Director of Wild Woman Expedition

She Can Create: Creativity Classes for Women

girl can create

Join us for an experiential woman's creative group that meets once a week to play and create using a variety of different inspirations. Focusing on self-expression and the desire to bring more art to our lives we will use Collage, Storytelling, Movement, Doll making, Beadwork and Journaling to jumpstart our creativity and help create unique pieces of art and find ways how to continue creating after the classes are finished. Lisa will also talk about the overcoming creative blocks, taking steps to complete projects and letting the world know about your work. A sure fire inspiring workshop, register early to avoid disappointment as there is a limited amount of participants.

When: Tuesdays Nights from 6:30 to 9:00
April 15, 22, 29, May 6
Price: $150

To register please email Lisa at lisa@girlcancreate.com or call 416-516-4925

Plus special deal for RED Letter readers, register and mention RED Letter and you will receive a complimentary creativity coaching session with Lisa Pijuan-Nomura.

About Lisa: For many years Lisa has helped other artists when times were tough. It seemed to be a natural extension of her work as an artist and curator. Lisa has studied with many great creative minds including author and creativity expert Eric Maisel, Art Therapist Jacqueline Gautier, dancer Lisa Nelson, singer Ysaye Barnwell, musician Babatunde Olatunji, storyteller Judith Black and many others! With over 15 years of working as a performance artist, writer and educator, Lisa is especially passionate about bring art, humour and creativity to lives of women, youth and children.

[atc lisa]

Artist Trading Card Session
March 30
4:30 to 6:30

ATC Lisa Pijuan-Nomura

What is an ATC? Well, think of a baseball card. Or a playing card. Only, it doesn't have your favourite ball player, it has a one of a kind work of art. Originally these cards were created so that artists who couldn't afford art would swap with their friends. It has grown to become a movement that let's many people create and exchange original art!

The only rules are that it must be 2.5' by 3.5' and it must be traded.

ATC Toronto wants to spread the good word of Artist Trading Cards and is hosting monthly swaps and card making sessions!

These cards are for everyone, not only artists!

Well, join us once a month to make and trade some cards. Or come with your own cards to trade at our monthly session. This is a great way to meet new people, find some creative time and play with crayons, paper, glue, and paint and just have time to make art! Beginner’s welcome! Please know that this is for everyone! Even if you have never done any sort of art, you are welcome! It’s fun, and addictive, and you can have a great afternoon!

Sunday March 30 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Somewhere There Studios
340 Dufferin St., Toronto

One Block South of Queen
(entrance off Melbourne Ave)

For more info see www.girlcancreate.com

CRAFT SHOW: speakeasy spring craft show

Leilabug Toys
Eco-cuties by Leilabug Toys

Among other magic, Springtime means the SpeakEasy's Spring Craft Show!

Among other kind folks, Kelly Burgess of LeilaBug Toys (an eco-conscious & sweet wooden toy company) reminded us that this show is coming up next Thursday April 3rd from 8pm-Midnight.

According to the show organizer:

SpeakEasy Craft Shows are notorious for bringing Crafters, Artists and Designers together in a unique venue to share their creations with the community.
Our vendors are chosen for their unique style, quality and originality of design.
Jump on down to the Gladstone this April for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Time & Space:
Thursday April 3rd, 8pm-Midnight
The Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen West
Second Floor Lobby + Studios Rooms

Cover:
Pay What You Can ($4.00 Donation Suggested)

Some other pals of the TCA exhibiting:

The Purple Thumb, Clothing, Jewellery, Handbags, Bath & Home Items
Nightjar Books
Studio Loo, Handspun Art Yarn, Clockwork & Plush Toys
The Gnarled Branch, Beer Cap Pins
Fiona Bailey, Textile Artist
Tascidesigns, Jewellery & Hand-Made Glass Beads
My Belle Bijoux, Jewellery
Allison Wells, Papersnake Jewellery
A Heart Apart, Jewellery
Ashley Winnington-Ball, Jewellery

For more information contact:

David Brown
email: david@blttogo.com telephone: 416.533.1374

http://www.SpeakEasyTO.com

Thursday, March 27, 2008

SUPPLY YOUR HABIT: fabric sale at the workroom

Be still my beating heart.....

***FABRIC SALE ALERT!!!!***

workroom fabric stack

the workroom is so excited for spring and for all the delicious new fabric we have on our shelves. To celebrate, the workroom is having its first fabric sale starting March 25 and ending April 8th. For every 10 fat quarters you buy, you get 2 FREE... or for every 2.5 metres of fabric you buy, you get a half metre FREE. (The more you buy, the more you get FREE) This special sale is on every single bolt in the shop - even the new prints that have just arrived. This is the stuff that fabric dreams are made of! (Free fat quarters or half metre must be of same or lessor value.) Take a peek at all the lovely fabrics on flickr and hurry over.

the workroom is located at 1340 Queen Street West, just east of Brock

Also - a brand new class calendar has just been posted for April & May - check out new classes like T-Shirt Transformation, Nine Patch Crib Quilt, Lino Block Printing and Sewing for Teens at http://www.theworkroom.ca

EXHIBITION: staetim: fourth year new media festival



A note from Ryerson University's School of Image Arts.

STAETIM: Fourth Year New Media Festival on March 27, 2008.

STAETIM is the third annual festival showcasing the thirty-five thesis projects of the graduating students from the New Media program. The event presents a variety of works that use computer technology to create interactive and immersive experiences. Students work in a wide range of mediums including: robotics, animation, installation, and interactive video. The festival not only celebrates the efforts of the students, but also seeks to raise awareness in the art community of the creative possibilities of the technologically enhanced artworks that emerge from Ryerson University.

Amongst this year’s highlights include Brandon Marsh’s, NMP Jacket; a wearable mobile-electronics outfit that encourages a direct social interaction and challenges the established conventions of public and private communication. With Soft Corps, Jordy Lucier has become a manufacturer of felt weapons, such as an AK47 and brass knuckles, in order to investigate the disconnection that is experienced between violence within the context of entertainment industry products and that of the real world. The robotic creatures in Tyler Robb and Ross Lavery’s Digital Prey offer an interesting twist on the conventional cat and mouse dynamic to those who play or those who watch the game.

Each one of the exhibited works will ask you to reach beyond your learned perception of fine art; they ask to you forget your inhibitions, forget your constraints, and instead to reach out and touch them.

These works are a mixture of human and machine that is needed, necessary, now. Stætim.

For more information contact Kimberly Lai call 416-277-0292 or email k4lai@ryerson.ca

Opening: Thursday March 27th 6-9pm
Exhibition: Friday March 28th 12-6pm and Saturday March 29th 12-6pm
Location: School of Image Arts 122 Bond Street
website: www.staetim.ca

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: fred flare's next big thing

Former Next Big Thing winner Karissa Cove has diligently reminded us that indie-cute shop Fred Flare is looking for 2008 candidates. This is an awesome opportunity in terms of exposure, sales, and quite possibly hard cash. Toronto crafties, represent!


Visit the contest page for details.


fred flare


CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: ben navee art jewellery show

Ben Navaee Gallery is hosting an Art Jewellery and Accessories show and is still open to accepting submissions from jewellery artists. There's a $50 fee and the commission is just 30%. The application deadline is March 30, 2008.


Please email samples of your work in low res jpegs to michelleobyrne@bennavaeegallery.com

For more info please call 416.999.1030.

navaee

Monday, March 24, 2008

TALK AMONGST YOURSELVES

whew! what a long weekend! the spring one of a kind show was inspiring, and i spent more time finishing some projects.
as part of the Toronto Craft Alert's goal to galvanize the city's craft community, we'd like to get a bit of a discussion going. discuss any crafty topic you like... we'll be re-posting this thread every monday morning, so that the discussions can continue in the comments section of this post.

VENDOR CALL: pomme-pomme craft & zine fair

pomme_stitch2

A dream team of indie goodness (Amy of Atelier Wooden Apples & Tom of Drawn and Quarterly) are putting on a craft and zine fair this July called Pomme-Pomme.

Amy is eager for more Torontonians to apply, and man are spots reasonable priced, so check out the blog for application details and get on it!

Some highlights from their FAQ:

What is The Pomme-Pomme Craft Fair?
Pomme-Pomme is a unique craft fair in Montreal showcasing over 30 crafty vendors. The event is organized by Amy Johnson from Atelier Woodenapples and Tom Devlin from Drawn and Quarterly.

When and where?
This year's event is being hosted at La Sala Rossa on July 12th and 13th. Please see map.

What are the fees and how much space do I get?
• A 6 foot table is $65 for the 2 days.
• A 8 foot table is $80 for the 2 days.

Is the fair juried?
Because we want to maintain a level of quality the fair is juried. This is based on not only the quality but the uniqueness of your items as well as whether we feel they would fit with the other vendors.

See all the deets on the site.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

CRAFTY CHAT: new craft attack

high low

Stephanie of Handmade Detroit was kind enough to pass on this link to a review of the SNAG conference (specifically a talk entitled “D.I.Y, Websites, and Energy: The New Alternative Craft”). This appears on a blog associated with the super cute online boutique Imogene. The issue of misperceptions and the divide between the worlds of fine craft and “DIY/indie/alt/crafty/whateveryawannacallit” craft has come up for me a lot lately and is most definitely something that needs to be further addressed and unpacked . Be sure to read the discussion in the comments in which the criticized speaker responds….I have yet to make it all the way through, but geez is it juicy so far!

If you want to weigh in on the issue, especially how it comes into play in your practice/business here in T.O., please respond in the comments of this post.

EXHIBITION/CRAFTY BIZ: rouge at harbourfont centre's bounty shop

rouge show

George Brown College presents ROUGE, the 2008 Jewellery Arts Graduate Exhibition and Sale

April 10 through May 4, 2008 at Bounty – The Canadian Contemporary Craft Shop at Harbourfront Centre

Rouge is the dark red polishing compound used by goldsmiths to put a mirror finish on jewellery. At George Brown College, the Jewellery Arts Class of 2008 is busy putting the final polish on their jewellery creations for Rouge, the 2008 Graduate Exhibition and Sale.

George Brown College is pleased to present Rouge from April 10 to May 4, 2008. Rouge will be hosted as a free exhibition by Bounty – The Canadian Contemporary Craft Shop at Harbourfront Centre. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2008 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. An awards ceremony will also be held at 6:30 pm in the Brigantine Room. This event is open to the public and free to attend. The exhibition can be seen during regular Bounty store hours (11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday to Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday to Friday).

For this year’s graduates, Rouge will be the culminating event of the three year Jewellery Arts program at George Brown College. Rouge will showcase more than one hundred one-of-a-kind, handcrafted traditional and contemporary jewellery works designed and made by the program’s 20 newly minted metalsmiths.

Visit the Facebook page for this event (with more pictures of works)

George Brown College offers one of North America’s largest and most renowned Jewellery Arts programs and has graduated some of Canada’s top goldsmiths and jewellery designers. George Brown’s unique program and environment produces graduates with highly technical as well as exceptional design skills suitable for entering jewellery and related professions immediately following graduation.

STUDIO SPACE: great for jewellery artists

margie studio logo

Small shared studio for rent. Full or Part-time $350/250 per month. Perfect for professional or hobbyist silversmiths, goldsmiths, flameworkers or glass fusers. The studio is fully equipped with tools and equipment, I am looking for someone to help with the rent. Includes small space for selling your work (for full timers only), receive 85% payment for products sold. Great atmosphere coffee and yummy treats for sale to get you by while you are working. For more information contact Michelle @ 647.402.7617 or michelle@margiejewellery.com

GET SCHOOLED: march crafty/fashion workshops at n-r & co.

Note: this listing has been updated for new classes & dates - updates in green

Upcoming CRAFTY/FASHION WORKSHOPS

@ nathalie-roze & co.
1015 Queen St. East (at Pape), Leslieville
www.nathalie-roze.com

SockMonkeys

Please register by phone with a credit card at: 416-792-1699
OR in-person using debit, cash or credit (M/C or Visa only).


DIY Sock Monkey Dolls

Saturday March 22, 10am to 1pm
Instructor: Designer/illustrator Kim Kutner of "Kim's Suitcase" www.kimkutner.com

The focus of this hand-sewing workshop is the classic yet quirky sock monkey. Participants will learn the basic technique required to create a monkey doll, using traditional grey work socks with red stripes at the top (or the socks of your choice) as well as decorative handmade add-ons to give it your own creative stamp. Bring along your own socks (new men's socks work best) or purchase a pair for $10 from Kim. Everything else will be provided.

Note: basic hand-sewing skills required for this project.

$55 + GST, including instruction hand-outs, stuffing, buttons, felt, needles & thread, etc. - plus tea & treats served during the break.


Beginner WET Felting
Saturday March 29th, 10am to 1pm
Instructor: Textile designer Julie Sinden of "Jules & Annie" www.julesandannie.com

Participants will be introduced to the process of wet felting, while creating a gauzy layered skinny-scarf. Learn how to make a long, felted panel, blend colours, as well as how to fuse secondary fibres (eg. yarn and silk) as design and embellishment. Fans of One of a Kind Show starlet Frances Felt www.francesfelt.com (of Vancouver), known for similar projects will be especially keen on this crafty/fashion session.

$55 + GST, including all materials, resource sheets and gourmet tea & treats served during the break.


Organic Soap-Making
Sunday March 30th, 11am to 2pm OR Sunday April 13th, 11am to 2pm
Instructor: Amanda Montgomery, owner of the "simply. by amanda" soap company www.simplybyamanda.com

In this hands-on session, learn how to make a batch of organic soap, using the cold press method. Learn all about making your own natural, moisturizing soap - then, choose your own scents (essential oils) and exfoliants to make a fresh batch customized to your personal preferences. All ingredients are 100% natural and fair-trade. Participants will leave with several bars to enjoy at home or to give as gifts.

Note: participants should dress casually.

$55 + GST, including gourmet tea & baked goodies served during the break.


Sewing 101: Easy Eco-Totes
Saturday April 5th, 10am to 1pm
Instructor: Nathalie-Roze Fischer, accessories designer & DIY enthusiast

This workshop aimed at total beginners will cover the very basics of machine sewing - threading, key stitches, creating simple patterns and appliques, plus some free-hand embroidery to create a one-of-a-kind tote bag.
No more than 4 per session, so register early!

$55 + GST, including use of machines, fabric and felt for appliques & hands-on exercises, hand-outs as well as tea & treats served during the break.

NOTE: Participants must bring a half metre of sturdy non-stretch fabric (eg. denim, thick cotton, cord, etc.), plus half a metre of wide/thick ribbon, webbing OR a men's tie for the bag handles and a spool of quality thread.

Alternatively, a course kit can be purchased with registration ($10).


CANCELLATION POLICY:
To cancel without penalty, registered participants must give a minimum of 4 days notice. SORRY - No refunds! Credit notes will be issued to be used towards future workshops or to purchase items in the store. Late-cancellations will result in lost fees

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

FROM THE DESK OF TCA: thumbprint guest blog

i (angelune) was asked to contribute to the spring issue of thumbprint, the online magazine of the One of a Kind show. i put together a short list of some of the local artisans i'm looking forward to seeing.
spring One of A Kind show
looking through all the pictures got me excited for the show this weekend! get even more inspired for spring by checking out the fresh gift guide posted by the kind folks at the OOAK.

greenbaum clothing, booth m-48 greenbaum clothing by lisa greenbaum, booth m-48

jenny clark pottery, booth k-43
bird and berry mugs by jenny clark pottery,
booth k-43

Monday, March 17, 2008

CRAFTY HAPPENING: stitch - an a cappella opera for 3 women & 3 sewing machines



A note from The Theatre Centre.

STITCH: an a cappella opera for 3 women & 3 sewing machines

Juliet Palmer music
Anna Chatterton text
Ruth Madoc-Jones direction
Sarah Armstrong set & costume
Kimberly Purtell lighting
Marie-Josée Chartier movement
Jim Ruxton special effects design
Shauna Japp production stage manager

Hemmed in by the language of sewing and the inexorable rhythm of the machine, Stitch gives voice to the unseen women who clothe us. Performed by Christine Duncan "…smooth as honey throughout her five-octave range" (Globe and Mail) Patricia O'Callaghan "the most promising cabaret performer of her generation" (Billboard) and Neema Bickersteth "amazing control of her vocal palette…warm and sensual" (Opera Canada).

"Imagine an opera presented outside a theatre, without a stage or orchestra. It doesn't seem like opera at all – until you realise how much a librettist, composer and three vocalists can accomplish with the simplest of means. That's an art." — Toronto Star

A co-production by urbanvessel and The Theatre Centre presented by The FreeFall Festival in partnership with
Harbourfront's World Stage at The Lennox Contemporary, 12 Ossington Ave.
March 13 7:30pm
March 14 8pm
March 15 2:30pm & 8pm
March 16 2:30pm & 8pm

Tickets: $10 matinee, $20 evening performances.
Advance tickets: tel. 416-973-4000

Online ticket purchase
Same day tickets: The Lennox Contemporary, 1 hour before show-time For further information please visit www.theatrecentre.org

Funded by The Toronto Arts Council, The Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.


CRAFTY BIZ: small business arts forum FREE

small biz arts forum


The City of Toronto, Economic Development, Culture, and Tourism Department is hosting its first Small Business Arts Forum on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at the North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The forum is free, however space is limited so register early. www.enterprisetoronto.com

The Small Business Arts Forum is a City of Toronto initiative, organized in collaboration with the Ontario Ministry of Culture, Ontario Ministry of Small Business and
Entrepreneurship, Toronto Artscape, Cultural Careers Council Ontario, Women in Film & Television, and others, to put together an inspiring and informative day of Empowering the Entrepreneur in the Arts.

The Forum will feature a full day of interactive programming with keynote presentation, informative roundtable "peer-to-peer" discussions, educational seminars and networking.

We are anticipating approximately 150 attendees, including those who are either budding entrepreneurs or existing entrepreneurs in the arts industry, at this exciting event. Our goal is to develop and enhance business skills in the arts community, promote entrepreneurship, and bring together individuals and businesses to network and expand their circle of contacts.

To register for this event call 416-395-7416 or visit www.enterprisetoronto.com to register on-line. Space is limited so register early.

TALK AMONGST YOURSELVES

hello crafty cyber-crowd, how was this past week? i've been finishing some crochet projects since i told myself i couldn't start any new ones until i finished all the ones that are in progress. sunday afternoon was sweet sitting in the sunny window at the knit cafe with a ball of yarn in hand.
as part of the Toronto Craft Alert's goal to galvanize the city's craft community, we'd like to get a bit of a discussion going. discuss any crafty topic you like... we'll be re-posting this thread every monday morning, so that the discussions can continue in the comments section of this post.

SUPPLY YOUR HABIT: letterpress field trip

Those curious about letterpress or into building up their own stash of paper & printing gear may be interested in this fieldtrip organized by Akemi of KOZO Studio/Gallery:

woodtype

I've worked with Craig Black to organize a Saturday trip to Don Black Linecasting's huge crammed warehouse in Scarborough.

For those of you who don't know, this is THE PLACE to find a tabletop or floor press, wood and metal type, corner rounder, paper cutter, composing stick, qoins, chase, and anything else to do with letterpress printing and the industry in general. People even come from the U.S.!

Craig will show us some of the equipment and can answer questions that some of you may have about presses, etc. If we're lucky, we might even get our names cast in lead! This is also an opportunity to buy some pieces you may need to start or add to your collection.

I will give Craig the number of attendees on March 23. So please RSVP before then!

We'll also try to do a car pool so that anyone who buys some cool stuff can transport it home easily.

This is going to be fun!

RSVP through facebook

Or contact Akemi at 416.214.1882
Email: kozostudio@gmail.com

Details:

Saturday, March 29, 2008
10:00am - 2:00pm
Don Black Linecasting
120 Midwest Rd, Unit 5
http://www.donblack.ca

GET SCHOOLED: spring classes at c1 art space

c1 art space kelly_kirkham
A collage by Kelly Kirkham

C1 art space

:: Art Classes ::


Complete Schedule for Adults and Kids is available at http://www.c1artspace.com

Coming up in March and April:

ADULTS
CERAMICS: SILK SCREENING AND CLAY with Jocelyn De Backere
Build simple forms and learn basic silk screening techniques to transfer images onto your clay pieces. Whether simple designs, text or your own drawings see the possibilities of silk screening glaze decoration. No silk screening experience necessary although experience with clay will be an asset.
$145 (materials and taxes included)
Tuesdays, April 8, 15, 22, 29 from 7 to 9:30pm

CERAMICS: WHEEL THROWING with Ramona Antaya
Learn the basics in wheel throwing techniques to produce cylinders with various functions. A range of decorating methods will be covered. Suitable for all levels of experience these focused workshops are limited to four
students at a time.
$145 (materials and taxes included)
Tuesdays, March 18, 25, April 1,8 from 7 to 9:30pm or
Tuesdays, April 22, 29, May 6, 13 from 7 to 9:30pm

MOSAIC with artist Sandra Tarantino
Learn the fundamentals in mosaic application and layout designs onto various surfaces. Whether using broken plates, found objects, glass or ceramic tiles, create wonderful pieces for your home or garden, including mirrors, planters and more. Choose from a variety of projects.
$80 (materials and taxes included)
Saturday & Sunday, April 26, 27 from 1 to 4pm

COLLAGE with artist Sandra Tarantino
This workshop looks at various mediums and tools used in the creation of collage works. Techniques include the use of photocopying, transfer printing, glazing, found objects and built surfaces when combined with more traditional drawing and painting media, 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional objects.
$145 (materials and taxes included)
Thursdays, April 27, May 3, 10, 17 from 7-9:30pm

SILK-SCREENING with artist Daryl Vocat
Create your own one of a kind designs on paper and fabric. Projects presented in class include single and multi-colour printing. Learn the fundamentals of photo-screenprinting techniques (photo emulsion method) to develop skills through colour separation, creating editions and monoprints or be creative through experimentation with stencil methods, drawing fluid and pastels. These workshops provide information on how to set up a silk screening studio at home. No printmaking experience is required. For beginner and intermediate levels.
$145 (materials and taxes included)
Evenings
Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 from 7 to 9:30
Weekends
Saturday & Sunday, March 29, 30 from 1 to 6pm or
Saturday & Sunday, May 3, 4 from 1-6pm

SILK SCREENING AND BOOKBINDING with Jocelyn DeBackere
Learn the basics of screen printing to create designs on paper in the first portion of this workshop. These will be transformed into unique works while discovering bookbinding methods in the later part.
$145(materials and taxes included)
Thursdays April 24, May 1, 8, 15 from 7-9:30pm

PAINTING with Sandra Tarantino
Learn and develop painting techniques using acrylic paint and mediums while focusing on the elements of design. Discover how to render form, light, space and colour through various exercises including still life composition or the practice of copying Old Master paintings to produce a finished piece. For beginner and intermediate levels.
$210 (materials and taxes included)6 sessions
Wednesdays May 7, 14, 21, 28, June 4, 11 from 7-9:30pm

ENCAUSTIC with Graham Curry
Encaustic is a drawing and painting medium using molten wax as paint, mixing medium and preparatory surface. This workshop offers an overview of the medium covering basic techniques, safety issues, and encaustic's versatility in relation to collage and oil painting, printing techniques and sculpture.
$150 (materials and taxes included)
Saturdays, April 5, 12, 19 from 1 to 4:30pm

C1 art space
44 Ossington Avenue, just North of Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario M6J 2Y7
416 538-7999
http://www.c1artspace.com
info@c1artspace.com
Gallery Hours: Thursday, Friday, Saturday-12 to 6pm, Sunday- 1 to 5pm
(closed Mon & Wed- open by appointment)

Friday, March 14, 2008

GET SUPPLIED: content sale at mima design

mima design sale

CRAFTY HAPPENING: spins & needles craft + DJ night

TCA is excited to be a media sponsor for the next Spins & Needles Craft + DJ Night in Toronto. Click your sticks and stitch your kit to the beat next Thursday night at at the Gladstone Hotel....

Spins & Needles Craft + DJ Night rolls into the Big Smoke for another crazy party mixing music and crafts as part of its 3-year anniversary celebrations!


poster_mar2008_upcoming



A fun way to start the Easter long weekend, creative types and nightlife-ers will participate in the unique experience of making stuff while listening to DJs spin funky beats in a hip setting. Instructions and materials will be on hand to create art/craft projects to bring home. Funky house and electro sounds provided by DJs Jason Pelletier (Ottawa), Kris Steeves (Toronto), Sicadelic (Moncton) with special guest DJ Will Munro, Toronto's infamous partystarter.

Spins & Needles Craft + DJ Night partners at this instalment with StreetKnit (
http://www.streetknit.ca/), a Toronto initiative that rallies knitters to create items to be distributed to homeless outreach programs across the city. Donations of hand knitted sweaters, hats, mittens and socks are welcomed at the night.

What:
Spins & Needles Craft + DJ Night (Toronto edition)
When
: Thursday March 20, 2008. 9:00 p.m. onwards
Where: Gladstone Hotel: Ballroom (1214 Queen St. W.)
Cover: $7, 19+ event
Info:
http://www.spinsandneedles.com/

CRAFTY BIZ: business of being an artist seminars at C1 art space

If you missed signing up for this series last time around, you'll be happy to see this great-looking roster of seminars geared toward sustaining a successful career in the arts being offered again at

c1logo


THE BUSINESS OF BEING AN ARTIST with art consultant Arnold Wytenburg
This seminar series provides insights, guidelines, and tools for launching, growing, and maintaining a successful career as a professional artist. The sessions in this series are designed to appeal equally to both new and experienced artists alike.

All 4 Sessions $200 +gst or Each Session $65 +gst
Wednesdays, 6:30PM to - 9:30PM

Session 1 - Business for Artists 101 – Wed, March 19

  • Organizing & managing your professional practice
  • Career strategies & business models for artists
  • Positioning for success

Session 2 - Presenting & Promoting Your Art – Wed, March 26

  • Targeting your audience
  • Creating & communicating a professional image
  • Promoting yourself & your work

Session 3 - Communicating to the Market – Wed, April 2

  • Basics of communications & public relations
  • Leveraging the media
  • Going online: taking your art to the world

Session 4 - Leveraging Your Strengths - Wed, April 9

  • Hooking up with the right gallery
  • Getting more from your creative assets
  • Going global: taking your art to the world


MAKING THE INTANGIBLE TANGIBLE: PUTTING YOUR ART INTO WORDS… with art consultant Arnold Wytenburg
This workshop focuses on learning and applying tried-and-true methods for creating an artist's statement and biography. During this session we will cover the key aspects of writing about yourself as an artist and about the artworks that stem from your practice.
$150 +gst
Wednesdays, April 16, 23 - 6:30PM to - 9:30PM

C1 art space
44 Ossington Avenue, just North of Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario M6J 2Y7
416 538-7999
http://www.c1artspace.com
info@c1artspace.com
Gallery Hours: Thursday, Friday, Saturday-12 to 6pm, Sunday- 1 to 5pm
(closed Mon & Wed- open by appointment)