More Rock Stars

Today the Calistoga Art Center featured another Rock Painting Class. The turn out was great ! There was even another male besides myself that helped round things out. The group showed up close to 10am and everyone got a name tag to make it easier to get acquainted. There were plenty of supplies on hand, and most everyone were given two rocks to paint.

When the class began I mentioned that we had a few who had attended a class I had before, and as some people raised their hands, we called the class "Rock Painting 101" for the newcomers, and the oldtimers were seasoned veterans to be considered as "Rock Painting 2.0" . When I said oldtimers, someone thought I had said Alzheimers, and wanted correction. This got a laugh and then a few others giggled and raised their hands. It was a fun group and we got started right on time.

No one was taking themselves too seriously. Everyone started with a rock which they painted with a base coat. The next step was tricky because the acrylic paint had to dry before adding the puff paint, which is also acrylic. Many of the participants were getting streaks in the paint after applying too much, or the rocks already painted were not dry enough. Thankfully, we found that one of the heaters in the room was blowing hot air onto a table.Then, after locating a hair dryer, we solved that problem.

The next step was applying dots to the rock without having the puff paint spit or blob out of the container.Mistakes were made but all in all, designs began to emerge. Some folks painted figures like trees flowers or birds. Others got into make mandala patterns. When this was completed, we took the rocks outside into the sunshine to spray coat the rock with a clear UV varnish. That was it.

Everyone remarked about how much fun it was and expressed interest in coming back to the next event.

Below are pictures of the participants...

Amy, Alex and Jen ~ The assistants and fellow Rock Stars

Susan and her two lovely creations

Rocks drying in the sun after receiving a clear coat of varnish

Everyone getting into the rock "Zone" 

      

Deborah's Fish, "Fiona" 

                                                                                                                                                                

                                            

Amy and Alex's glowing rocks 

An Inside Job

      If you were to ask me what is the most charged word in the English language, I would have to say self. It's been said that if we can find joy in another's joy, and that is the secret to happiness. The opposite can also be true. To seek joy in what we perceive to be our selves may hold the answer to some of life's most puzzling questions. What is this thing called joy, and is it a thing?

 Acceptance has been the key to having things be other than the way they seem to be, but it has to start with accepting things exactly the way that they are, and the way they are not. Otherwise, we will only sabotage attempts at getting to acceptance, and eventual growth.

Perhaps we are already in the state of ecstasy, and we suppress it to a level with which we are comfortable. Hmmmm...

Having outside appearances can fool ourselves and others, whether they be physical or psychological. Staying curious about these appearances will reveal more about our own perception.

    Begin by telling your self the truth about feelings (i.e. choose to experience the experience) Don't fool your self into thinking you don't have a choice in this regard. You do, even if you have convinced your self that you don't. 

Seeking will run you in circles until you find surcease, or until you find someone who shares your journey.

Ultimately, all things will pass, and you will probably grow more mature from having had an experienced experience . This "ah-ha" realisation has assisted me in finding stability and security where I would otherwise be trying to seek these states of being outside of my self. All the more reason to go within.

It is true that others will mirror back to us what we mostly don't like in ourselves, as well as what we do.

The truth contains it's opposite ( is this always a balancing act? )

Below is this week's "Rock of the Week" . It is a tribute to the Wolf Moon which is a super moon occurring during the first week of the new year.

More Rock Stars!

 It was a lot of fun getting together to paint rocks last Friday.Claire Elise Barton provided the ideal space for this holiday event. The workshop lasted for around two hours but a lot of information was packed in, along with a list of supplies that many of the artists found useful. Tea, candy and cookies were provided to sweeten the experience. Those that arrived were very much enthusiastic about getting started and were quick to jump into the process.

We began by painting the rocks with a base coat of black or white. Holding the rocks by the sides was tricky when trying to figure out a way to cover the whole rock without leaving fingerprints that had to be painted over when the first coat dried. Needless to say, this was a learning process.

The next stage, was applying the various colors and designs using a high quality metallic acrylic that really made these stones glisten. The next stage was the puff paint which came in the two varieties... flourescent  and phosphorescent . Do you know the difference? ( There will be a test later )

Lastly after extensive drying using heat guns, it was suggested that we use a selection of clear coat varnishes to complete the project. This step would be applied the next day when the stones would be bone dry ( hopefully). In any event, everyone carefully took their rocks home with them in the hopes of having a nice keepsake to pass on or have for themselves.

Merry Christmas to Alex, Chloe, Marrs, Kathy, Claire and the Starrs Art Collective for a joyous evening.

Oh my!

 Uh, you mean people are actually reading this? Yikes! Suddenly, I feel that I'm like Oprah giving out new cars on her talk show. 

    I'd like say this, but at this point I can't. The rent is due, and the rocks have to be sold. Truth be told, I love painting rocks, but after fifteen years, maybe I should be teaching others how to paint their own, and how to enjoy this process.

    So. guess what!? I have two classes coming up. One on the 12 of this month at Starr's collective in St. Helena (see the flyer below) and Rock painting 2.0 at the Calistoga Art Center come January. If your are interested in taking the first class you can still sign up. Just tap this link to register...

Starr's Art Collective

It will be fun, and all the materials will be supplied and it's only two hours.

So without any further ado... here is this week's 

"Rock of the Week!"

Thanksgiving (and giving thanks) for forgiveness

    It can be difficult at times, but the effort always seems to pay off. Trying to be thankful for what's been given and what has been taken is a balancing act.

    Without waxing too philosophical; Gratitude is the common watchword when it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving.We hear about having an "Attitude of gratitude" from those offering sage advice.In a culture of comparison, gratitude can have a tough time of it. I always try to keep my witticisms in check. An attitude can just be a position I take, it's not the final word.

    Thanksgiving can bring out the best when families get together celebrating with one another. The less obvious in these gatherings, is the over-extending graciousness that can mask controversy.

    The hot topic around here are the three speed bumps installed on Lake Street. These so-called safety measures have become a sign of the accelerating times we now live in. Drive fast, break an axle.Drive slow, maintain the peace.

    Brother and sisters, aunts and uncles, nephews and nieces, we are all in this together. Is this the best time to let "Sleeping dogs lie"? Acceptance and allowance of anothers perspective is essential in keeping the peace, and having thick skin will fend off donnybrooks from escalating. 

    Anger looks for a target. Keep in mind that over-indulgence in alcohol is not always the culprit, either. Flying accusations along with slammed fists send not only dishes jumping, but guests uh...leaving. 

    When hot topics are introduced, always consider the source...and remember the point of any good argument is to reach a proposal. A general consensus is reached usually when it is time for the guests to leave. After all, even turkey will begin to stink given time.

    Gratitude for a plausibly fortuitous outcome, and mercy itself begins with forgiveness...and in most instances, forgiving oneself for a simple faux pas, or other embarrassing foolishness. Our forgiveness is not contingent upon any unctuous pleading. No one likes to be "Holding the bag" as it were, when asking for such. When all is forgiven, that is the beginning of trust.

    The vulnerabilty that it takes to allow real forgiveness is the epitiome of strength, both for the one offering forgiveness and the one receiving it.

Below is this week's "Rock of the Week"  Momma Blissta!

It's been awhile...

 Yes, I admit that this blog has not been updated since the beginning of October. I've had what might be called, "A full plate" of activities that have kept me busy and barely afloat ( like the rest of us ). My heart goes out to all those who find themselves in a tight perdicament with regard to the recent economic picture . It seems that the rich continue to get richer and... well, let's not get ahead of ourselves.

October has been productive to say the least. I've MADE the time to further my craft and generate new ways of earning a little more $$$.The lastest endeavor is something called "Calistogies" which are chocolate candy cigars made by a wonderful Chocolatier whose name is Kat. She and I got together and now i am packaging these goodies and selling them both at the local farmer's market, The Chamber of Commerce and Papa Lou's store here in Calistoga!

Other than this, "Your Spirit Rocks!" are now being featured at the local artist's collective called Starrs mentioned in last month's blog., which is down the road in St. Helena. Claire and Starr have put together this wonderful gallery that is bringing in a wealth of local talent. It's certainly worth a visit.

Lastly, several of the products that I feature at my booth continue to enthrall many new customers. Aside from the keychains,pendants,nightlights, spinner rocks,mobiels and assorted gift rocks, I now have a side bin with some of the drawings and paintings that i've compiled over the years.

I hope to stay on top of this blog in the days to come, but hey... 

Below are my most recent "Rocks of the Week" 

( which may include next week, and the weeks to come )

Opportunity comes a knocking

     This has been an incredible week. Not only has business been uplifting, but more opporunities in the art world have been presenting themselves. Meeting Claire and Starr Michelle at the "Starr Collective" in St Helena was inspiring. Here they are showcasing the collections of many local artists and craftspeople who have found an environment that supports their vision. It has been very  encouraging because they have generously opened up the possiblity of having my rocks displayed there, and possibly having a workshop there in the future! I so look forward to staying in communication with these folks.

    The Napa Valley has certainly made the jump from wine and food to art. There are many creative circles and events that are taking place regularly, along with new and exciting venues, galleries and shows to demonstrate that. We even have a new Art and Culture Museum in South St. Helena called the "Mac". It is currently featuring an exposé of Julia Child's legendary contributions to the world of Culinary Art through an exhibition of her life's work in this field.    

    The other thing to see are accomplished visual artists and sculptors who have on display some of thier best work. The floor staff are prepared to answer questions about such talent or offer news about this or any current or upcoming exhibits.

    It should also be mentioned that the grand opening and Community Open House of the Brannan Center has taken place here in Calistoga. They are bringing first class entertainment which will include solo performances, comedy, broadway concerts, Mexican revival music, and Brazilian Grooves with a bilingual Latin dance workout ! This along with converational Spanish and French classes are also being offered for our local community.

    Lastly, I've had it mentioned to me after having the workshop at the Calistoga Art Center, that i am welcomed back to have another one when there is an opening in the future.So stay tuned... more chances to have your spirit rock is on the way !

Below is this week's Rock of the Week...

This will be a first

     I am grateful to Anna Johansson for securing a spot for me to teach a rock painting class at the Art Center, which is right next to the fairgrounds here in Calistoga. It will be held on Thursday, Oct.2nd from 10am to 12 noon. As of this post, there are eleven spots left. 

If this is something you'd like to try, you are most welcome to give it a shot. Below is a link to the Park and Rec site where you can register. Although it is a 55+group, your experience in this exercise shouldn't be a factor. Most the materials will be supplied, even some rocks that will be the right size, shape and smoothness to render a nice item to bring home with you.

  To instruct in a class like this has been on my to do list for some time now, and I don't think that the timing could be better.

Here is the LINK to the 55+ craft lab registration. I believe that this class is on a donation basis, so if money is a factor... don't worry, just come.

... and remember, "Your Spirit Rocks!"

Below is this week's 'Rock of the week" ( under a UV light, naturally)

Easy Does It

     This is a wonderful slogan to adopt when I get too hungry, angry, lonely or tired H.A.L.T These have been valuable lessons. Too often I will not pay attention to any one of these items and find myself at the end of a short rope. Even if you H.A.L.T. at any one of these, you many find yourself overwhelmed or overextended in a variety of ways. This is when Easy Does It can render us a moment of serenity.

    The addendum to this would be... But Do It! because if we rest on our laurels, then what was once considered to be optional will very suddenly become a necessity ( like renewing one's driver's license for example ). However, if we are doing the best we can with what we have to offer, then it is within our integrity to honor our choices and to validate our attempts.

    To endorse yourself is vital to one's growth as a child of God. We are not victims of the opinions,whims and remarks that others may have of us. 

    It has been said that if we are as good as our word, we will be in our integrity... but this is not always easy, eh?

    Now that I've done my best in carrying a message of hope, I would like to conclude that I'm still doing the best I can with the rocks that i've got!

...and that being said, check out the latest dazzler...