elevenmorning

New Blog!

2009-03-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

In an effort to be a little more efficient I am going to consolidate blogs. I will keep this blog up until the transition is made.

To read the new blog please visit:

tangerineshop.blogspot.com

To visit Tangerine's website please visit:

elevenmorningstangerine.com

If you were on my link list or would like to be on my link list please shoot me an email at

elevenmorning@yahoo.com

Have a super fantastic and totally creative day!

Make Art= Be Happy

Where the heck is it?

2009-01-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

Tangerine is real...

Everyday new people come in and are so pleased, that in turn makes me very happy, it's like someone visiting you in a dream. I am doing pretty well considering the economy I think I owe that to a niche market, quality products, and reasonable-fair prices.

I don't mark up like the big guys, it wouldn't make sense. My overhead is a little lower than most and I pass that savings on. I don't have a neon sign, a spot on the local channel, or a glossy magazine add and I kinda like that.

People have to work to find me. I am not in the yellow pages and although I am on a main street in our tiny city my sign is small and not flashy. I figure the people who are meant to find me will. So far all the best people have.

Who else can say "I love my clients" I really do, they are fun, creative, sweet, kind and really appreciate what I have built. They make my day, everyday. Oh did I forget, these are some patient people! They put up with low tech check-out, my taste in music, websites that don't get updated as often as I would like and product that when ordered doesn't come from a factory but is actually made by a person and takes real time.

The feedback is always positive and everyone leaves with a little treat from the candy-bar. The only thing that could make this better is...well on my wish list would be a bigger space for workshops and a fireplace!

I love being an artist, I know how lucky I am to be able to do the work I love most.

Thank you to all of you who continue to look for Tangerine and find me...

OHHHH!

2008-10-24T15:22:00.001-07:00

Saturday was the grand opening of Tangerine and all I can saw is "Oh my goodness" So many friends, family, neighbors, and fellow artists came out for the big day.

We served red velvet cupcakes, brownies and pink champagne. The morning of the opening I was sure I wasn't ready, I had so much left to do and all the inventory hadn't arrived but it was perfect, incredibly-wonderfully perfect.

The weather was beautiful, there were bubbles floating outside the door, the air inside the store was sweet with the smell of frosting and flowers. Everyone tasted, toasted and I felt like I was inside someone Else's dream.

Two days ago Connie Govea Stuart popped in to play. She brought her canvas tote, her pretty place mat and all her bits and pieces. She sat at the big table and seemed to make magic happen. This woman is unbelievable, creativity just flows from her. Everything she makes has a sweetness...I was very happy to have her here.

Colleen Moody took a break from her studio and her adorable husband who is flat on his back healing from surgery to bring me a little pumpkin decorated with hydrangea, ribbon and glittery Beatles's. It was good to see her and we all wish her husband a speedy recovery.

Iva Wilcox arrived all smiles. This wonderful woman has motivated me to do things I just never thought I would or could.

Basha Kooler from Kooler designs was here bearing a great big pumpkin tied with tuille. She brought her beautiful daughter and the man she loves. She is so funny, genuine and kind. We are both talking about working on a project together, stay tuned.

I don't want to leave anyone out but this post could go on forever. Thank you wonderful friends for helping me open Tangerines doors with such love, laughter and good wishes.

Tangerine is opening October 18th!

2008-10-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

Oh, Oh, Oh, can you believe it!

Yes the doors are finally opening. There is still plenty of work to do but I just can't wait any longer.

Tangerine is swinging it's little door wide open so come and play, have some pink champagne and cupcakes, shop, laugh, nibble, meet other artists.

It will be a casual, friends, family, artists coming in and out all day.

So put on something sparkly and Celebrate women, art, life...

7038 Village Parkway Dublin

Look for the paper lanterns.

Gabriell

Pulling it together

2008-08-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

I went out today to the salvage yard in Berkeley to pick up some old doors, a mint green sink, two windows, and some rusty metal things. It seems this is the beginning of Tangerine. I know it sounds odd but I think it is going to be beautiful.

The space is industrial. I laid a faux wood floor and painted the walls but the rest of the space needs a little character. I could have gone over to Ikea and bought some new things but they just seemed so slick and plastic.

I want texture, color and curiosity. The trick is to not make it look like a yard sale or make it too shabby-chic cute.

The sink is an antique pedestal with original hardware. I am going to clean it up and display handmade soaps and bath salts in it.

The old doors will become tables. I love them they are all different sizes and colors and worn perfectly. Steve will have to build legs for them that I will paint a terrible blue. I will wash and seal them tomorrow.

I can not wait to see beautiful things arranged on these big solid tables. I love the idea of pretty glass and ceramic mixed with chipped paint and rusty hinges.

I have the most beautiful drawings that Stevie did several years ago that I am going to burn into a screen and print onto kids t-shirts, they are called "Pick Me" I know they will fly out of the store.

There are many artists that keep sending me work to look at, I wish I had the budget to buy it all, and there will be a time when I can.

So far we have hand blown glass earrings, the sweetest t-shirts, hand-made soap, vintage baby quilts, vinyl bracelets, toys, paper crowns, big jars of bubble gum, paper clay figurines, pins, buttons, cards and cupcakes.

I love this job, I can't wait to open!!!

G

Tangerine!

2008-07-31T19:45:00.001-07:00

Oh my Goodness I am not sure what I am thinking but I am opening a new studio. I am going to keep Eleven Morning but it seems I have outgrown the space for teaching workshops and making my own art.

My new space will be blocks from home in a small industrial building that is a little funky but has much potential. The walls are already painted a creamy yellow and I am collecting all the fixtures an furniture we will need. I am calling it Tangerine.

I can walk or ride my bike, the space is sweet and I am excited (and terrified) to get moved in.

The Eleven Morning Website will include all the Tangerine information and I have a new blog for Tangerine news.

There will be more workshops, sweet treats, ephemera, unusual art supplies, and great art you can play with and purchase.

Someone pinch me quick!!!

Sisters

2008-07-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

Oh my Goodness...

I swear the paint was still wet when I listed a couple of the new sisters on Etsy. The next day I sold five out of seven. I wanted to get them posted here but it all went so fast. I started a new group of girls (nine of them) and they just keep getting sweeter. They won't be ready for another week or two but I will let everyone here know before I put them up on Etsy.

Thank you all for being patient.

The Eleven Morning website is still up and running but it is getting a face-lift to be a little more shopper friendly and easier to navigate. Check back in a couple weeks hopefully it will be bigger and better.

August is fast approaching and I am so excited about Convenzione. It looks like the weather may just be perfect for the workshop we are having here at the studio. I was worried we would have to move it to Sawsan's Gallery on Village but fingers crossed we can play here were all the fun stuff is.

If you are curious about Convenzione 08 and 09 just go to zneart.com or znecon.com to get all the juicy details. Chel has been working her tail off to make this event spectacular. I think there are still more tickets for this years show.

Well my sweeties have a wonderful summer day, eat outside, play music in the kitchen and don't forget to stand outside under the stars...

G

Lavender

2008-07-08T09:45:00.000-07:00

Oh the lavender is here and my studio smells like a little bit of heaven.

I planted a little lavender last year that turned into a lot of lavender this summer. I harvested some this morning before the bee's came for breakfast. I think I might make sweet-dream-pillows.

Many years ago I had one that I kept in my pillow case, it is made of soft fabric stuffed with dead sea salt and lavender. You keep it close to you while you sleep, the lavender is a conduit for peaceful sleep and the salt is suppose to neutralize any negative energy.

Don't be surprised if I put a few on Etsy.

I am working on six new dolls. The first four sisters were sold so quickly and the requests keep comin' I promise there will be more. The photo above is of a couple of the girls getting a shine and a tan out on my worktable. I may be in love with them already. One of them got a little drippy and she looks teary, that one I may have to keep, she is heartbreaking.

It is so hot here in Northern California, we are in the middle of another little heatwave. I am melting but my tomato's are happy, they have been waiting for some bright sunlight to help them get all red and sweet.

Stay cool friends and drink lots of lemonade, here is fun recipe:

Make Lemonade the way you like it (you gotta use real lemons!)
Add some sliced strawberries
Add some ice and sparkling water
Add some cucumber curls, yes cucumber.

You can make the curls by using a veggie peeler you use the skin and the pale green part of the cucumber but avoid the seeds. The longer this brew sits the better but it is ready to drink right away.

It might sound a little strange but it is so yummy and refreshing.

Happy Summer
G

The Fourth

2008-07-05T08:19:00.000-07:00

Oh it was a good day. Water slide, bonfire, sack race, trampoline, BBQ, fireworks. Noah had so much fun and I loved watching him smile like that.

Danielle's Cake topper is finished I hope she likes it. I will have to re-shoot the photo's my camera died yesterday and I had to run out and buy a new one. I know nothing about digital camera's swore I would never own one. I still have my old Nikon SLR with a four year old roll of 35mm film in it!

I am a purist about art but I have to admit the digital camera sure makes my life easier. I bought a Cannon PowerShot A470. It is actually a better camera than my last one. Stevie bought it and she paid 500 buckeroos for it. This one cost me a 100 and it does what the other one did and when it dies I won't run around in circles like Rumpelstiltskin yelling obscenities.

Here are a few photos of the fourth and one of the last photos from the old camera of the cake topper.

Hope everyone had an amazing fourth.

Portrait of a Woman

2008-07-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

I just found a new bisque supplier, and I am a very happy girl. My old supplier skipped town so no more giant bowls and platters for me. My new supplier is wonderful and I think Ann and I will both have a wonderful year.

I am gearing up for an ongoing workshop. I will teach it here and online. We will be working with big ceramic French platters. It will be a self portrait workshop for women of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

The objective is pure self expression, who we are, who others think we are, how we see ourselves in truth, beauty, fear, longing, sorrow and love. We will be serving up intimate portraits of ourselves. I love the idea of using a traditional object.

If you are interested in being a part of the project please email me. It will be very exciting, there will be an online gallery of the completed project and a show at a local gallery of all the work.

At the moment I am collecting names. Let me know if you would like to meet for workshops at Eleven Morning or if you need to do a virtual workshop. I will have more details in a couple weeks. I plan to begin the project at the end of summer.

Oh I am back...

2008-06-29T08:34:00.001-07:00

I just got back from the Reno trip. The drive was loooong, the sky was smokey and Reno just happened to be having unusually hot weather. Our space at this show was outdoors (a surprise) The sun was blazing and we were not prepared for the day. Chel was a trooper and stayed positive trying to make the best out of an intense situation, I wilted.

I was not as happy. The heat was way more than my body could handle and I like heat. My spirits crashed when my dolls began to crack, split and some looked liked spent firecrackers. The larger doll heads have a core that seems to expand when conditions are very, very hot.

I usually air dry my dolls, they sit in my studio window in full sun and have no problem. In Reno the dry desert heat, the intense sun beating down literally baked them. I packed up after spending an hour unpacking. I went back to the hotel, took a shower, a swim, ordered room service and Noah and I watched Horton Hears a who.

Chel did her very best to make it through the rest of the day but packed up at the end of it feeling really sun-sick.

There are a million details I am leaving out that seemed strange and tragic while they were happening but seem comical and memorable now.

I think I will need to have and exploded doll sale...

Home sweet home, time to start making some new dolls.

Tuesday!

2008-06-24T19:09:00.001-07:00

The amazing Sarah and Gabriell bringing in the New year a few years ago...

It is Tuesday...I made a huge spaghetti dinner and I am blissed out on the carbs. Chel called today and it looks like we are on for the Tumbleweed Cotillion in Reno this weekend. It will be a long, long drive but it should be fun. Lavender Ridge sounds beautiful and who wouldn't want to be surrounded by lavender fields?

I am in the process of building a display for the show. Chel and I will be sharing and we have very different styles, not sure how it is all going to turn out but my fingers are crossed it will be pretty and appealing.

My big project when I come back will be working on Danielle's wedding cake topper. I am not a fan of custom orders, avoid them mostly all the time but this one I felt pulled to. I love her wedding colors and the idea of my figurines on a big white cake. I am sure she will love it, if not I will bake myself a big white cake.

Sawsan and Aura came by Eleven Morning to make earrings and make a big dinner. We had a great time. We didn't get much work done but we did the most important things like eat desert first then sit by candle light and eat a slow dinner. There is a new organic yogurt shop called Blush that just came to town, we tried all the flavors, had an ice-cream buffet.

I am curious to find out who signed up for the August workshops at Convenzione in Pleasanton this August. I love meeting new people and this workshop will be a lot of fun. I know Chel is working hard to make this an awesome experience.

The feedback, pre-orders and the generous donations (Thank you Colleen Moody from a Seasonal Mood for the big bucks) for Pink sky have been wonderful. The book is due to be shipped out on the twenty-fifth. I am not sure how long it takes 400 pounds of books to get here from Texas but as soon as they arrive I will be sending out the purchased copies and getting the donation packages ready. Thank you, Thank you!

The sisters I made were a hit and I have several requests. Please be patient they are being created as we speak. There will be a collection of nine. I will put them up on Etsy before the paint has a chance to dry!

Shout out to Sarah McMoyler of The McMoyler method. Congrats on the new book and DVD.

Sarah is one of my favorite people. She has been my friend, my family, my therapist, my angel. She is also a childbirth Guru. If you are planning to have a baby, know someone who is having a baby or are about to give birth you must buy her CD and or her new book, The Best Birth. It is good information for smart people. Her childbirth classes in San Fransisco sell out months in advance, it is the ultimate childbirth class and a wonderful experience.

New Dollies!

2008-06-15T09:01:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone,

It is so pretty outside my studio windows, the sun is up, it is warm already but there is a pleasant breeze coming through the canyons. I woke up with some new ideas that I can't wait to get started on. I think there is a new book in my head that wants to be on paper. This time I think I might watercolor...

Its' fathers day so Noah and I got up early to cook. Steve pretended he was asleep, it's a tradition to bring the paper and breakfast in bed. Noah made coffee while I sliced berries and peaches for the the crepe filling. We whisked batter and made gigantic crepes that we filled with sweet fruit and whipped cream. The kitchen was a mess, Noah and I did more sampling than cooking, and Steve loved his treat.

I spent all day yesterday finishing these four little sisters; Cakes, Button, Pickle and Noodle.

Pink Sky is a real book!

2008-06-13T16:43:00.001-07:00

Yipee!

Pink Sky is now a real book! I just got the proof today. Iva was here but she missed the delivery by about a minute. The order is in and in two wonderful weeks we can release this sweet treasure!

I am going to open ordering up at pinkskyproject.com for those of you who would like to pre-order and have been waiting so patiently. Remember that proceeds from the book go back to The Pink Sky Project so that we can donate books to families.

This is so exciting.

I got not strings...

2008-06-10T08:44:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

So much is going on here at Eleven Morning. The most exciting is that I finally have a confirmation that the Pink Sky proof is on it's way. I am so frustrated by this way-too-long-process but happy that I will finally get to see it! I really want the book to be ready for ZNE's Convenzione in August.

If the weather continues doing what it is doing the Turn, Turn, Turn workshop in August will take place at a gallery just two blocks from my house where there is glorious air conditioning. We will still make a little field trip to Eleven Morning so everyone can visit and have some lemonade.

I am playing with some new dolls that are based on some old sketches my daughter did several years ago. I created fabric dolls from these sketches at the time but now i am using paper clay. It has been so much fun.

I found an old box of pin dolls I made with the girls when they were little and felt inspired by
dollproject on Etsy to make some new ones. I think it would make a fun workshop.

Chelise and I are off to Reno to do the Tumbleweed Cotillion. How she roped me into that I will never know. I am not sure I am a fit for the show but it will be an exciting adventure. It should be a very beautiful venue they are having it at Lavender Ridge this year so it should smell heavenly.

Have a creative week, look through old sketch books, and at some older work you have stored away you might be surprised at how re-inspired you may become.

Buttons, Buttons, Buttons...

2008-05-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Oh Yippee!!!

I have a new button maker and it feels like Christmas. I have wanted one of these since I was a
little kid now it is mine all mine.

Here are the first round of buttons...

These are all little girls doing cute things like eating cupcakes, catching stars, blowing out candles, and collecting flowers.

I attached them to sweet little gift cards.

Yummy!

Another Baby...

2008-05-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

I tried it one more time and had to stop, it is too addicting and starts stirring up hormones that need to stay dormant right now.

I sculpted this baby while watching a documentary. I was holding it in my hand sculpting and watching, sculpting and watching...

She looked so comfy and peaceful I let her stay curled up.

Oh Baby!

2008-05-11T13:49:00.000-07:00

For Mothers day I requested a peaceful, uninterrupted day in my studio, chocolate and a fondue dinner. So far it has been a wonderful day.

I could have finished the dolls for the Somerset submission or started on the rainy day figurines. I could have vacuumed and organized the ribbon drawers or did the drawings for the new buttons.

Instead I decided to learn something totally new. I had a box of Super Sculpey that has been sitting in drawer waiting to be brought to life. Today was it's lucky day, it became a tiny baby. This is my first attempt but true to my nature it will not be my last. My neighbor stopped in fell in love and has pre-ordered one, then a really good friend of mine stopped by for some silver clay and thought it was kinda creepy. I love it, what fun, I think it must give you an oxytocin rush.

Thank you Cheimarie for the lesson!

Sunday

2008-05-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

It has been the most beautiful and peaceful day. I watched The Jane Austen Book Club (didn't like it) and made a little girl riding on a flying pony.

I stayed in my pajamas all day, cooked, made art and didn't do even a little house work.

This is good.

The bluebird doll sold and I am really happy about that the woman who bought it is a doll collector and she loves the doll.

Ivy found a new home in Pennsylvania.

Next week I am closing the studio down and concentrating on other things. It is very easy to spend hours and sometimes days in here and forget about the outside world.

Art makes me happy but taking care of my responsibilities allows me to make art.

I think I will live it up until responsibility day and make a grilled cheese sandwich and lay on the carpet looking at all my art magazines while I eat it. I also have to go out and buy red paint which means I will come home with a bag full of strange little happies.

Have a wonderful Sunday.
Gabriell

Turning Music Boxes!

2008-05-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

Here are the girlies...

This is Pistachio... She gently turns as butterflies flutter around her, and a gentle tune plays.

To see the whole collection go to elevenmorning.com

They turned out so beautifully.

Turn, turn,turn

2008-05-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

Well I have been a busy little bee here at Eleven morning...

In August I am doing a premier workshop for Convenzione in Pleasanton California. I had to come up with a project that everyone could make, that was not too challenging, a lot of fun, and would produce a spectacular end result.

I sat down at my drawing table and came up with wonderful music boxes. The greatest part is that even though this is a project based workshop it will still be wide open for individual expression.

The ten that I made are unique to me and my style but I am so stoked to see what everyone else will come up with.

August is too far away.

Here is a picture of my studio while I was making these turning music boxes. I like to pretend I am organized and tidy but this is the real Eleven morning on a work day...

New figurines!

2008-04-24T06:58:00.001-07:00

I met the cutest little girl in line at a shop in town...

Her name is Anna.

I told her mom I was going to make a little doll that looked just like her and I did.

So Mama if you are here...

Here she is...

Everyone else, there are new figurines at elevenmorning.com come see them they are so cute!

Convenzione!

2008-04-22T08:44:00.001-07:00

As many of you know I am a member ZNE an amazing group of artists. They have embraced, encouraged, comforted and inspired. Chelise and all our friends at ZNE raised money by selling and donating art and paid for the first 500 copies of Pink Sky a book I wrote in memory of two incredible girls who could not be more loved.

Many of you have asked what is going on with Pink Sky, well it is a process that has it's own time. The illustrations and writing is done, the easy part. Iva Wilcox now has the task of turning it into a book. Her skills are amazing, this woman knows how to do a little of everything. She works and works and I say, "what about" and she works and works...

We both have pages to write for our daughters, it's the hardest part, then a little more formatting, then off to the publishers to be printed and what ever else they do to it.

We hope to have it ready by May, I promise to keep everyone updated with the release information.

Queen Chel has put on her thinking and doing crown and has created a little magic, well a whole lot of magic. In August she will be producing a gala event in Pleasanton California called Convenzione. It is going to be an amazing gathering of Artists from all around the country.

I was honored to be asked to give a workshop here at Eleven morning. I have been scratching my head wondering what to offer and I have come up with a wonderful idea.

We are going to create music boxes that move. Each will be a unique little figurine that turns and turns.

August is HOT here in California so I am going to turn the pool spa down to really cold, make gallons of ice tea and we will work under a party tent here at the studio. I am already preparing the projects, the music boxes just came in and I will be pouring parts and pieces next week. I can't wait it is going to be so much fun!

I hope spring is springing all around you and that new ideas and an abundance of creativity finds you...

Gabriell

Here they are!

2008-04-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

I finally got the new figurines painted, sealed, photographed, and a few listed on Etsy. Here are some pix of the new girlies.

Guess what?

2008-04-03T13:23:00.001-07:00

Oh I have a wonderful surprise...

I just made the cutest little figurines. There are about twenty sitting on my workbench that are in different stages of painting and finishing. They are all one-of-a-kind and incredibly sweet if I do say so myself.

They should be finished and up by the end of the week. Check elevenmorning.com or elevenmorning.etsy.com later this week if you want to take a peek.

I met the cutest little girl at target today named Anna. I have decided to make a doll that looks just like her. She is the third little girl this week that has been an inspiration. I can't wait to get started on the new collection. I just have to figure out how I am going to sculpt curly hair and braids, it should be an exciting challenge.

I now have apple, cherry, nectarine, and pear blossoms in my yard, it is magic! I hope everyone is happy and enjoying the slow but beautiful beginnings of spring.

Gabriell

Etsy and an apology...

2008-03-22T17:50:00.001-07:00

News!!!

I have finished twelve of eighteen dolls in a spring collection for this year. They are up on Etsy. If you want to visit the shop just go to Etsy.com and enter elevenmorning. The dolls are really sweet.

Visit the store, visit the site, visit your mom, visit the bakery for chocolate cake.

These dolls were inspired by Bella from Pink Sky and she was inspired by drawings done by Stevie a very long time ago. I have always high-jacked her ideas.

They are all made out of paper clay and are one-of-a-kind. There are going to be 18 in the collection. They have movable arms and legs and they come off of their pretty bases to play.

I am turning into a squishy sap, I love dolls, I love making dolls.

Make some art!!! it will make you soooooo happy!

PS. The last post was meant to go to my daughters blog: Stevieandthedreamofhorses.blogspot.com

I apologize for posting it here, I was having a backwards day.

Gabriell

Blue Eyes

2008-03-19T07:36:00.000-07:00

I slept well last night, deep. In the morning at 4:19 (no accident) I woke up from a dream about my girl. She was in the kitchen, sitting with Aly giving her a hug. I was so happy to see her. Steve came with Noah and he picked her up and held her so that she went upside down and her circulation got all scrambled and she said, "great there goes the vision" I remember thinking how awful it was and I was mad at Steve. I woke up.

I went back to sleep easily and this time I dreamed I was in Stevie's bed, Noah was in the middle and he was sleeping like a baby, he looked like his baby self and I looked at Stevie who was laying on the other side and said, "Doesn't he look like a baby?" She smiled, he woke up and went to lay on her chest. He played with her hair and said, "I wanna kiss you on the lips" He gave her a sweet kiss. I was so happy.

I could smell her and I remember thinking, "Oh God I can smell you, and your eyes are so blue, I remember now how blue they are" It lasted seconds but they were beautiful, wonderful seconds. I woke up saying "Thank you, thank you, thank you baby"

Today is the 19th, cemetery day. For the first time I am wondering if I should keep doing this. I feel Stevie telling me it is silly that she isn't there but I hate it that her body is so far away and alone. I have this need to be as physically close to her as I can. That is different than talking to her and dreaming about her. This feeling I am talking about is a Mom thing. My body aches to be near her and once a month I am. I understand that she is in a box that is in a cement box that is buried under ground. I understand her spirit is around me and not there but I keep telling her over and over, "I loved your body too and this is your place, the place I have marked with your name so no one will ever forget that you are real" When I go to the cemetery I feel like I am saying, "This child is loved and not forgotten."

I am going this morning. I have nothing to bring but myself, a blanket and maybe my journal. I will lay there with her memory and try to find a way to thank God for giving me nineteen years with the most exceptional person I will ever love instead of being angry at him for taking her away.

Stevie, Thank you for the dream, thank you for being with me, listening to me ramble on and on and for loving me from where you are, I am starting to feel it. I love you with all of me, everyday is one day closer.

Mama

The Wheel

2008-03-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

Spring is here and It is time for me to clean up the ceramic studio. The kilns need vacuuming, the
Molds need airing, the tables need scrubbing and the tools need washing. The winter has been hard on the studio this year so much rain and wind.

Maread would like to teach some throwing classes because there is one wheel it will have to be private sessions. She is such a sweet girl who is planning on attending CCA this spring and after graduation attend CCA full time. She is thinking about teaching art as a career. Call for more information or to schedule a session with her.

A silver clay workshop is in the making and is tentatively scheduled for April 3rd. It will be a three hour class, much of that time we will be waiting for our clay to dry but there will be munchies and time to get to know each other. We will be making a silver charm. All supplies included, it should be fun. If you are interested and would like more information you can email me at elevenmorning@yahoo.com or give me a call 925-548-8447.

Enjoy all the budding and blooming.

Gabriell

Bella from Pink Sky

2008-03-07T07:44:00.001-08:00

I wrote a book that will be published soon. It is a children's book about transition. It feels like I dreamed the whole thing, and maybe I did. ZNE and amazing art group I belong to raised money for a memorial for Stevie and Brianna. Magic happened and the book will be the memorial. I am so happy. ZNE will pay for five hundred copies of the book to be donated to families dealing with the possibility or the reality of the loss of a child. Iva, Chel and I will be working hard this week to get it all ready for the publishers. Iva is creating a website and the Pink Sky Foundation will be set up so that we can keep the books in print for families who need them.

The little girl in the book is Bella. I am in love with her and after the book was finished I was moved to make a Bella doll. This is her with her butterfly. I will keep everyone updated for the books release.

Oh so busy...

2008-03-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

Crowns

Iva did it again and introduced me to crowns this time. Never in my life would I have imagined sitting in my studio making them.

Someone made Brianna the most beautiful crown to wear in the everywhere that made me cry and then there was another at a little shop in Pleasanton, and another in Berkeley that got my creative wheels turning.

I decided I needed to have one, so I made one, then another and another and another.

Here are some photo's these are very naked crowns because I love the beauty of the human body, if it makes you blush you might want to cover your eyes.

I suggest eyes wide open.

They are all made from paper, ribbon, glitter, rhinestones, some vintage bits and pieces, paper flowers and German glass glitter (another thing Iva introduced me to).

This one is my favorite. I might just wear this crown while I tackle the pile of laundry that is sitting in front of me, ah if only we were always naked I wouldn't have to wash clothes.

I am madly in love with paper flowers. They are not easy to find but if you buy them all especially the white ones, they are so yummy.

I integrated fabric into this one and used some beautiful upholstery trim for the base.

It is very simple but lovely.

Paper purses

2008-02-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

Last year I contributed to a Leisure Arts book that was produced by Kooler Design Studio. I loved sitting in my studio and playing with paper, ribbon and all that glitters. There is something very soothing about craft making.

I came up with a version of some little purses I made for a birthday party several years ago. The Originals had a funny photo of my daughter with a a big balloon hat on. I filled them with Sparkly Lip gloss we made our selves, Japanese candy, cute hair clips, and Daisy seeds.

A year later I made a larger version out of chip board and covered in family photo's. Inside were a couple handmade gifts; an apron, a canvas bag, cookies, scratch off lottery cards, a tiny photo album.

I am a closet crafter, so don't tell anyone.

Here are a few photo's of the little purses. I made butiful kits so you can make them too, without all the stress. All you have to do is clip and glue. They are great for Birthdays, babyshowers, gift toppers, cute gift containers, or just to sit in a sweet space on your desk.

If you are interested they come in kits of six (14.oo) or eight (17.oo) They come in all kinds of colors and themes, check out elevenmorning.com for photo's and descriptions.

The book is "Gift Favors-small gifts for all occasions" You can get it through Kooler they just got a new batch fresh from the printer. It is a beautiful book to keep or give away.

koolerdesign.com/shopproductdetail.asp?ProductID=718&StoreSect=Books

Enough of trying to sell you something...

What are you going to do today to feed your creative spirit?

Spring is happening...why not bundle up, grab your digital camera and snap a few pix of all the budding that is happening, all the bulbs that are pushing through, the daffodils that are full of rain water and bumpy tree branches.

This is going to be a year of beautiful design, all natural, colorful and breathtaking.

Start creating an inspirational image file to pull from.

You can email me some of your finds if you like and I will post them here and on the website.

Have an amazing day,

Gabriell

2008-02-18T07:32:00.001-08:00

elevenmorning.com!!!

2008-02-15T07:14:00.001-08:00

The Website is done!!!

elevenmorning.com

I am so happy! it still needs some tweaking and a calendar but I am feeling pretty good about it. Check it out, you just gotta!

I am still working on the Spring Jewelry collection. It is taking a little longer than I thought just because so much is going on with classes forming, the book being published, and the garden calling me. All this sunshine and the daffs pushing up makes me want to go outside to dig and plant.

I will be attending a workshop today with Iva and Colleen. We will be making tiny wearable theatres. It should be interesting and challenging. I might share a version in an upcoming workshop if the artist is cool with it.

I went on a little field trip yesterday to check out the competition in town (Pleasanton) and found a lovely little studio called Poetry on Canvas. It is a sweet gallery space that does a little of everything including some painting and craft classes. I bought a few art supplies and breathed in that new building smell. The owner is a great person and gave us a tour. Her paintings line the walls all very spiritual and female. She has local artists hanging also, ranging from the weekend painter to the full time photographer. Some of the work is very rough and lacking in technique but I love the idea of a space where everyone gets to show work in a beautiful gallery. I wish her the best of luck, and a big thank you for taking a leap and bringing more art to our community.

The Ceramic studio needs dusting off and prepping for spring, the new jewelry kiln needs to be fired up, and I am dying to pull the carpets out of the studio when the weather gets warm. I promise a calendar soon. If you feel the art-itchies just send me an email and we can always create an art-play-date and do something with all that energy.

Make Art = Be Happy!

New Website

2008-02-03T15:35:00.001-08:00

I just started building the website. It is very exciting. I am hoping to have it ready in the next couple weeks. I am learning the software and sorting through photos.

I will let you know when it is up and running until then

elevenmorning.com

Gabriell

Eleven Morning Classes

2008-02-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

Eleven Morning Workshops

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Workshops are not project based, they are idea based. Classes are open ended and meant to inspire. You will learn the basics of each medium and will be encouraged to let your inner artist emerge in a relaxed, positive, and creative environment.

Tools and services are included except where indicated. Some supplies will be available for purchase for convenience.

Drink tea, find friends, make art.

Ceramics:

The Cup and Bowl: There is not a culture in history whose creativity has not started with the cup and bowl. They are simple but important vessels. They are practical and functional, sometimes sacred and mysterious.

This is a workshop designed for beginners or those wishing to sink thier hands in some clay again. It is a two part class. On day one we will build our pieces, then take a break to let it dry and fire. In the second class we will glaze our work.

Clay, glaze and firing are included.

Wear something comfortable and be prepared to get a little muddy. For this workshop I ask that you pay attention to the cups and bowls all around you and in your own personal history. Bring a story if you have one. Sharing energy fuels the creative mind. Depending on weather we may be working outdoors.

Textiles:

The Art Quilt: This is not your grandmothers quilting bee. We will be playing with commercial fabrics, found objects, textile dyes, fibers, and a whole lot of thread. We will all be creating a small art quilt that will be rich with surface design and hold special meaning.

Bring your sewing machine and your favorite cookies. I also ask that you hunt around your house or raid your mothers junk drawer for some interesting found objects. Tools, supplies, inspiration and tea will be included .There will be some take home work.

Jewelry:

The Ring: There is no piece of jewelry so symbolic, traditional, romantic and beautiful

This is a Silver Clay workshop. Silver clay is magic. Silver floating in a sea of clay. When it is fired the clay is removed and 99.9% silver remains.

This is a fragile medium but worth every moment of gentle attention.

You will leave this class with a precious ring to keep or share.

Tools and some supplies will be included. I ask that you purchase your own art clay. A small 7 gram package should do it. I can offer a list of suppliers. If it is convenient I will have silver clay on hand for purchase.

We try to do this class in the evenings so that we can watch our clay turn to metal, it is breathtaking.

Bring yourself, a story about love found or lost, your glasses if you wear them and be ready to make something beautiful.

Paper:

The Journal: Each day should start off with the first words in your mind and heart. Artists carry a book with them to record ideas, sketches, bits of paper, a fallen leaf, a candy wrapper.

In this workshop we will be making a creative journal. We will use a variety of paper, found objects, a little paper engineering, and our imaginations.

This is a class for everyone.

You will leave this class with a beautiful bound journal that you can keep or share.

Tools, supplies and tea provided.

I ask that you bring a pocketful of bits and pieces. Found objects, ribbon, buttons, dried flowers, magazine cut-outs. Anything you wish to use or share.

This is a sticky class so wear something comfortable.

Welcome

2008-01-31T16:04:00.001-08:00

Welcome,

I am Gina Gabriell, owner, artist and instructor of Eleven Morning Art Studio. This year I have decided to open my studio up to a few friendly and creative people interested in making art.

I studied ceramic sculpture at the California College of The Arts in Oakland California but I have spent the last ten years playing with glass, metal, textiles, wood, jelwlery and paper. I am a very curious artist, I can't seem to stay in one place doing the same thing for very long. There are not enough hours in the day for me, I love creating, learning, and discovering new and exciting ways to play with the same old stuff.

In the next couple weeks I will be working on a schedule of classes. I would like to keep the workshops small and the projects rich. You have to want to get your hands dirty, love art, love to play, explore, and share your inner artist.

Ceramic workshops will begin in the spring when the weather starts to warm up. There is nothing more satisfying than making a big bowl with your bare feet in the grass a big warm sun and honey ice tea. This is a messy, muddy class.

Jewlery workshops will be held evenings. We need the nights to be cool and the sky to be dark so we can watch our Art Clay turn into silver. It is pure magic, drums optional.

Textiles will be year round but are most fun in the fall when the leaves are falling and the sky is cooling. I love to make big quilts with a group of people. Hot tea, old stories, lot's of laughing and cookies, always cookies. By winter you will have something warm to snuggle under.

Paper, who doesn't love paper. This is best on a summer day, the paper dries faster and it looks so beautiful hanging on the line. We will not only make our own paper but we will use it to make hand bound journals, cards, fairy houses, lamps, and music boxes.

There will be plenty of other fun workshops and happenings. Please feel free to email me with any ideas, questions or comments. I will try to get the schedule up by mid-February.

Make art = be happy

Gabriell
elevenmorning@yahoo.com
925.548.8447