Showing posts with label Muse Silk Painting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Muse Silk Painting. Show all posts

Monday, August 1, 2011

Tribal Soul Collection - Fall/Winter 2011



This season I was inspired by not only the fire and ice themes of the Runway, but by the dream of Africa, from the icy, snow-capped summit of Kilamanjaro to the stretching plains of the Serengeti


There is something so alluring and primal about the land: watercolor skies of amber gold and fiery orange or cobalt blue, as well as the wild beauty that is the zebra just visible in the shadows, or the rustling from a stealthy leopard on the prowl  


 The amazing Maasai tribe, with their finely and exquisitely-patterned garments and hand-woven, beaded jewelry, are renowned for their artisanship and were a particular source of inspiration. I just loved the strands of bright necklaces draped over their bodies and their bold use of color—whites, blues and reds representing peace, water and bravery.


This intense energy resonated with me while creating each piece in my latest, luxury scarf collection and challenged me to do more detailed and intricate line work.  I hope this translates into a sense of beauty and strength for the women who will wear each of these new scarves. 


Now is the time to invest in a striking, decadent statement piece for Fall from Muse Silk Paintings. 

Click HERE to shop the new Collection today!

Monday, December 13, 2010

My Silky Friends - Special Holiday Feature

Dear Friends and Family,
As this year comes to a close, and the holidays are close upon us, I wanted to take a moment to say Thank You to a handful of very special artists who's positive energy and incredible talents have all had a hand in inspiring and supporting my continued Silk Painting adventures this past year.  Each lady being featured here is someone who I truly admire and as all artists have a very different voice and style, it is my pleasure to introduce and share them with you!

1. Name: Fiona Stolze 
Store Name:  Silk & Art
Angel’s “nick name” :) : Mistress of Mandalas

About the Artist:  Fiona is known for her incredibly intricate mandala silk paintings in gorgeous and vibrant colors, which can be found on scarves, pillows, greeting cards, you name it!  I cannot believe the amount of detail that goes into her pieces!  Her energy is a healing and positive one, and therefore no wonder that so much of her work has ended up in environments of meditation, therapy, and healing.  We have had many conversations on silk painting and other various topics that arise in the Silk Painting community.  She is well known in the Silk Painting forums as an active teacher giving generously, her expert advice on varied silk painting techniques and for her graceful, spiritual nature.  I look up to Fiona as a silk painter, business woman, and great marketer of her amazing creations.

When asked what she loves most about silk painting, Fiona's response was, "The thrill I get at seeing those luminous colours on the silk. The huge contrast between the stark white silk and the vibrant dyes I add, step by step. Just standing back again and again and soaking up the colours with my eyes. That’s quite exhilarating at times."
"Return of the Sister Bride" by Fiona Stolze

Favorite Piece:  "Return of the Sister Bride"
When asked why she is proud of this piece, Fiona's response was."  I was inspired to paint it after attending a workshop on the topic of Mary Magdalene being Christ’s no. 1 apostel. All of the symbolism linked with Magdalene’s followers and the myth that was build up around her is incorporated into this painting, including the rose at the centre. Mary was called the Sister Bride. And I feel proud when I look at that painting because it shows my attention to tiny detail as well as the sacred geometry within it. I drew a few circles onto the silk and then began to construct the six pointed star within it. I was fascinated to see that the intersections of the 2 equilateral triangles exactly sat on one of the circles I had drawn. How perfect is that? And my hand didn’t even shake when I retraced the lines in gold."

Learn more about Fiona by clicking HERE

Fiona's Holiday Promotion:  Order a 12 pack of Mandala cards between now and December 31st and you will recieve $3.50 taken off the regular price of $23.00.  Just add "MUSE" in the instruction box when you order, and you will be refunded after purchase!

Shop Fiona's Silk & Art store by clicking HERE




2. Name: Maria Jürimäe
Store Name:  Singing Scarves
Angel’s “nick name” :) : Silken Nightingale

About the Artist:  Maria is an amazing, energetic force who is known for her love of painting one of a kind, custom scarves for special customers.  She has amazing talents to create any idea you can think of!  She loves to paint and sing at the same time and as Maria says, "People from Estonia, the small Nordic country I come from have used the power of song to influence their lives.  Maybe you have heard of our song festivals... and we even sang ourselves free from the Soviet Union."

When asked what she loves most about silk painting, Maria's response was, "I love to paint custom silk scarves that carry special and very personal good wishes."  I know for a fact it is a true joy to receive a lovingly painted scarf from Maria as I have one in my own home of happy dancing bears that makes me smile every time I look at it!  :)

Family Portrait by Maria Jürimäe

Favorite Piece:  "Family Portrait"
When asked why she is proud of this piece, Maria's response was, "One of the most difficult tasks I've had was painting a family portrait on silk (5 people on silk with the things they love to eat).  Painting a portrait on silk is already a challenge, but painting five of them on the same piece is five times riskier.  If one member of the family feels s(he) is not like himself/herself then... "

Learn more about Maria by clicking HERE or HERE

Maria's Holiday Promotion:  She has surprises waiting for your in her Etsy shop - seven can take a small scarf they have never seen with VERY special price (2 are already gone, 5 left).  She is offering one custom large silk scarf for half price and some scarves are currently discounted up to 30%

Shop Maria's Singing Scarves store by clicking HERE




3. Name: Joy Light
Store Name:  Joysilk
Angel’s “nick name” :) : Mermaid of Ashland

About the Artist:  Joy is such a pleasure to know!  When I think of her, I see her smiling face modeling gorgeous, large silks being draped, like waves over her shoulders.  :)  Her studio is amazing, and even has published a video taking a peek into her creative work space which I just love!  Joysilk is known for their gorgeous ruanas and scarves with beautiful textures and rich colors.

When asked what she loves most about silk painting, Joy's response was, "The beauty of this work is that it is for wearing. In the wearing it finds its purpose; transforming the wearer with its light, channeling human energy into a unique presence. Bringing pleasure from the eye to the heart, each piece has its own personality, a life of its own, channeled by the artist into our world."

European Series by Joy Light
Favorite Project  "European Series"
When asked why she is proud of this piece, Joy's response was."This series was a big departure from my usual abstract color washes.  Each scarf was painted on a different weave of silk, each design was completely different from the nex.  I was proud and encouraged by my ability to paint in a new style."
 
Learn more about Joy by clicking HERE or HERE

Joy's Holiday Promotion:  Take 50% off at Joysilk.com with discount code ANGELRAY.  Offer good through 12/15

Shop Joysilk's Etsy store HERE  and her home page HERE




4. Lynn Meek 
Store Name:  Silk Siren
Angel’s “nick name” :) : Floral Goddess

About the Artist:  Think you've seen a pretty watercolor floral scarf?  Think again.  Lynn Meek's work simply takes my breath away and I am always inspired by her insane talents on expressing detailed, beautiful watercolor floral, landscapes, and even tigers onto gorgeous silk pieces.  Lynn's work has become known for her large scale, shawl-type wraps - no two alike!  Meek has developed her own signature watercolor style using slightly thickened dye applied in a more painterly manner without resist.  This technique lets her paint wet-on-wet letting the dyes mix and meld on the silk - a tricky and unforgiving process!   But.. they are ohhh.. so lovely!

When asked what she loves most about silk painting, Lynn's response was, "Color, color, color!  Luscious dye dropped onto sexy silk  - I was hooked the first time I did it!  AND, as I've continued on this journey, the wonderful, supportive and creative family of silk painters I've met along the way! (... let me add "crazy" and "fun" to those adjectives as well :)"  

Shamrock Scarf by Lynn Meek
Favorite Piece:  Shamrock Scarf
When asked why she is proud of this piece, Lynn's response was."This was for a 30 something young woman with the most gorgeous long, thick curly red hair which would soon be gone to chemo treatment.  I designed a bright, colorful square of silk she could use as a head wrap, tucking some lucky shamrocks in the design as well as her name in Celtic script.  I was truly honored to create this for her."
 
Learn more about Lynn by clicking HERE

Shop Silk Siren's Etsy store HERE  or by special appointment at her studio - just email her at lynnmeek@bellsouth.net




5. Name:  Marcia Ferris
Angel’s “nick name” :) : Maestra Mia

About the Artist:  Possibly one of my number one supporters, and fellow mushroom obsesser is this lovely lady! Marcia is a self taught artist who is a self-proclaimed " Technique Artist" in silk.  She is known for her amazing "Alter Ego" scarves, interesting textures, and jacket collections.  She has probably tested out every possible way to create interesting textures on silk than you or I could possibly think of.  And what is even better?  She loves to share her knowledge and give classes to budding silk artists, and experienced ones alike.

When asked what she loves most about teaching silk techniques, she replied "I recently taught some groups of women who had never silk painted before.  We had so much fun.  They went home with beautiful scarves and happy faces."

Children's Quilt by Marcia Ferris

Favorite Project  "Childrens Quilt"
When asked why she is proud of this piece, Maria's response was, "I am most proud of a children's quilt I made last October for a raffle to help pay for the hospital and medical expenses of a very sick child that I knew.  It was inspired by a beautiful matching children's game with interesting animals, wild life, flowers, etc.. I used scrap painted silk to create the squares and then machine quilted.  The raffle went quite well.  Of course it is unavailable now."
 
Marcia's pieces are only available via private request.  You can email her at marcia8401@gmail.com and she is happy to answer your silk painting questions as well.





6. Pauline Wherrell
Store Name:  Pauline Wherrell on RedBubble
Angel’s “nick name” :) : Crystal Ice Princess

About the Artist:  Pauline is more of a mixed media artist, who also paints on silk as well as canvas, paper, and currently exploring more in photography.  I've had many critiques and discussions about art with this wonderful lady and feel quite close, even though we are oceans apart.  She is known for her incredible interpretations of crystal blue (her favorite color) and high contrasting pieces.  While most of her artwork feels cool to me, she is in reality such a warm, friendly and talented person!

When asked what she loves most about silk painting, Pauline's response was, "The thing I love most about silk painting is its unpredictable nature when painting freely and the vibrancy of the dye colors."  

The Pond by Pauline Wherrell
Favorite Piece:  The Pond
original silk painting with dupont dyes on charmeuse
I love Pauline's delicious use of cool blues and vibrant purples in this, and all her amazing artwork! 
When asked what piece she is most proud of, Pauline's response was, "I am proud of anything I do that has occured as an accident that nobody, not even I can reproduce.  I am at the present exploring photographic creations with ice and clear quartz."  
 
Learn more about Pauline by clicking HERE

Shop Pauline's RedBubble store HERE




7. Jasdeep Kaur
Angel’s “nick name” :) :  Silky Queen of New Delhi


About the Artist:  Jasdeep has been an enthusiastic supporter of my work through her comments and energetic responses over the past year, and although she does not sell in a store online, yet, she does beautiful work herself, and I wanted to share it with you.  She is known for her happy, vibrant and colorful motifs filled with positive and lively designs!  Her forte is hand embroidery, but has begun to explore silk painting in the past few years

Butterfly Inspired long silk scarf by Jasdeep Kaur
When asked what she loves most about silk painting, Jasdeep's response was, "Since this art is relatively new to Indians, at least in the northern part of the country, wearing a painted outfit thrills them, giving me all the more reason to be happy and proud of the fact that I have yet another medium to express my feelings... put my thoughts from my mind to the ever gorgeous silk.  It is a proud feeling to give something so unique and exclusive and boast about it!"  

To learn more about Jasdeep and view her silk painting gallery, click HERE

 To All my Silky Friends both featured here and all over the world, thank you for your continued support and friendship.  Wishing you all the best for a healthy, happy, safe and warm holiday season and a very Happy New Year!
All My Best,
A.R






Saturday, November 27, 2010

Mad about Plaids!

Do plaids ever go out of style?  Really?  I think we all know the answer here.  Of course not :)  Here are just a few ways some Designers have interpreted plaids into their latest shows.   In a romantic dress, funky coat, or rich tweed, it all looks fantastic!

This season add a little preppy accent to your wardrobe without buying a whole new outfit - just throw on a fun, plaid scarf to update your look. 

I am delighted to announce that we have just added a brand new section of Watercolor Plaids to our Muse Etsy store! 
Cookies & Cream
Chocolate Pear



Blackberry Tart
Toasted Persimmon
























They come in a smaller size than we normally offer - 11"x60", perfect for a petite lady.  These scarves are also hand painted on a different type of silk - a satin/chiffon stripe which has such a gorgeous texture and catches the light beautifully.  Come discover all the new, delicious flavors,  errr... I mean colors and enjoy the very reasonable price  - a great gift idea!

If you are Mad about Plaids too, shop our new listings today!










Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Thanksgiving Poem

I’m thankful for my Musies
In every way times three
For silly little comments
Which we can laugh so merrily

 

I’m thankful for my Muselets
And squealing right along
Each new step and victory
They waddle on and on
Vineyard Art Sunrise
I’m thankful for each color
That streaks across the sky
For silk, for art, for crazy dreams
That make me wonder Why?

But most of all I have to say
I’m thankful that I’ve found
Inspiration every single day
Silk Painting wears the crown

Big Bear loves Fluffy Buns
 So Thank You, Creativity
And all of those who care
Wishing you and all your family
More love than you can bear


Have a safe, warm and very
Happy Thanksgiving!

~ A.R.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

A Dharma-ful Morning!

Recently I took a little trip up to Northern California to get away from it all... but in the back of my mind all through the weekend, I admit it was very hard to stop thinking about my final stop in San Raphael. Why, you ask? In this town resides one of my favorite shops EVER!


Ahhhh (listen closely and you can hear the choir singing Hallelujiah) DHARMA!!! One of my favorite silk painting suppliers! For a moment, my heart skipped a beat because I realized it was a holiday, but then I saw they were, in fact OPEN!



I walked in, and to the right there were rows and rows of beautiful silk, cotton, and hemp blank clothing - all ready for painting.. just hanging there.. waiting to be decorated..


I turned to the left and felt hypnotized by the candy colored rows of yummy Lumiere paints! Ohhh how I wanted to gobble up every color. I LOVE Lumiere!

And then *sigh* the piece de resistance - a little tower of novelty silk scarves, all folded up and organized in their places.. devore, satin burnouts, coin purses, velvets... so many ideas flowed through my mind just looking at each little compartment! Yes did spend nearly a half an hour in front of this tower. And yes, I may have been drooling the whole time (at least no one seemed to notice the crazy lady obsessively inspecting each novelty silk).

After pretty much frolicking all over the Dharma store and stocking up on silk painting goodies, it was such a beautiful morning that I decided to go for a stroll in the neighborhood. I decided a few things. 1) I would like to live in that little red house on the end please.


2) I would like fairytale flowers growing all over my door as well.



3) a pumpkin patch flag of my very own (how cute)!

4) would like my excuse of "Officer, Nature WANTED me to Park here" to be valid in avoiding being towed.

5) and last, but not least, I would really like to know, "How much is that doggy in the window?" :)

Overall I had a wonderful trip! Saw my friends, family, enjoyed some gorgeous, Northern Cali weather, and yes... finally made it to Dharma!


Friday, September 17, 2010

Behind the Name

Have you ever wondered why I have named my silk painting business “MUSE”? I suppose most would think – ah well, she has so many ideas that she must think SHE is the MUSE. (How egotistical) But, my friend, that was not really the intention behind the name. Today I just wanted to take some time to share why I decided to name my business “Muse Silk Paintings”. Well, the “Silk Paintings” part should be pretty obvious, but about the “Muse”, let’s start with the definition.

Definition of a Muse:
The source of an artist’s inspiration.




A muse can be a person, place or thing. It can be a song, or a memory, the setting sun, a twinkling star that inspired you to wear your diamond earrings tonight, or to add some glimmering silver to that project you are working on.






Also accordingly to Greek mythology, the Muses were ethereal goddesses who would literally inspire artists, poets, writers, etc.. to create their masterpieces, sometimes by whispering to them in their dreams.





With these lovely notions in mind, it is my hope that my hand painted scarves in their uplifting colors, with fantastic, daydream imagery will inspire you to throw together an outfit that is really special and completely YOU.
As each piece is a unique, one of a kind artwork you can wear, it is meant to spark your imagination! Where will you wear it? What colors will you style it with? How will you fold it and swirl it around – as a neck scarf, a head-band, a belt? When you order a hand painted silk scarf from Muse Silk Paintings, I hope you will search and find your inner “fashion” Muse and have fun creating your own, special look. Because after all, you are a beautiful masterpiece yourself, so why not take a moment to dress it up and really shine!?

Thanks for reading about my intentions behind the name… and whether it comes to you in a dream, or in a pretty little package, I hope you find your inner Muse every day!

Friday, May 21, 2010

Aqua Blues - Friday Fashion Finds

So, did you hear? Aqua blues are IN for summer so today I've decided to highlight some incredibly COOL turquoise and teal blue finds to add a fresh splash to your outfit. Mix in bright, beautiful aquas into a summer light wardrobe of sand whites, khakis, and straw totes for a marina ready, amazing summer look!

Aqua Blues - One by One
1. Turquoise from Cynthia Steffe by Pantone Spring/Summer Color Report
This report is chock full of lovely pastels and bright colors that will be important for Spring, and had references to high end designers showing how they've interpreted the hues into their lines

Such a dainty and beautiful set to add a twinkle to your summer outfit. Perfect for day or night, they look like little clusters of cool ocean mist resting lightly against each other - gorgeous!







Hand made, this beautiful ring with intricate swirling organic patterning is anything BUT crap! Love it's bright, happy color and large statement it makes - funky, bold, and beautiful.












4. Proenza Schouler had one of the best Spring fashion shows this year, and this aqua dress is by far one of my favorites! Read the review here.















Bursting floral blooms for Spring/Summer have been carved out of glass in this lovely, romantic ring. Perfectly appropriate in it's aqua hues.. and it's adjustable too! By the way, I just love everything is SoraDesign's shop!







So calm, peaceful, and alive - the composition and transition of aqua hues immediately transports me out of my head and into a beach side daydream - ahhh. This contemporary fine art painting would look amazing in a room adding just a little sprinkle of serenity.





These are SO hot!!! I can see them with rolled chinos and a tank, or a short, silver cocktail dress.. whatever you do, they add a air of sexy, vintage chic to your outfit. Wish I was a size 7.5 so I could strut around in these beauties!










Ok so I know this has nothing to do with fashion, but how cute is this little blue bear?! He is a vintage figurine, hand painted, and super cuddly. He would look so adorable resting on your kitchen windowsill - supervising all the bear treats being prepared! ;)











The easiest way to dress up your outfit is to throw on a scarf. This one is special, hand painted with the color of the ocean sweeping down the sheer georgette silk. So romantic and elegant.












This cuff is just to die for. Add a bit of rock and roll, and ultimate luxury to your bare wrist and loose T for summer. Goes with anything - has a silver lining and is just so hot.











11. Luxury online shopping site Netaporter features this sultry mini dress by Stella McCartney in their fantastic magazine pages.. what a sexy dress for day or night - love the blue!!














Perfect clutch for those summer weddings! Satiny smooth, with an elegant flower detail, I like this clutch because it it so modern and simple, yet ultimately feminine with it's understated scallops on the side. Would look great with a pale blue, white, gold or silver dress.





Hope you enjoyed today's Aqua Blues Friday Fashion Finds! Please help me improve my blog by taking this quick SURVEY! Thank you for your feedback, and cheers to an aqua cool summer!