Best Smellers

When I left Vermont, I was disappointed to move away from the creative community that I had become a part of.  The other night I participated in my first event since the move, and it was really good to do a show in New York again. I'm happy to find myself part of a new creative community, full of artists and fine creaftspeople who are proving to be resourceful and supportive.

The other night's event was Art & Whimsy, which was a fundraiser for the Empire State Lyric Theatre.  There were lions flanking the entrance, a lemon-themed decor, and spectacular live music throughout the evening.  I failed to take any photographs of the venue, but you can take a look at Stefani Tadio's blog.  Stefani was set up in the same room as I and proved to be an excellent vending companion.  Her specialty is hand-stitched paper art, which is really intricate and pretty.  I couldn't help but pick up a few of her sticky notes; they will make excellent gifts (excuse the plastic, I should have photographed them without it...).

I was so happy to see two artists from Second Storie!   Shanna Murray and Vicki Hartman both set up tables full of goodness.  Shanna had new wall decals, which I loooooved.  There were lambs, and birds, and oval-shaped garlands in different color options...amazing!  It was hard to resist the lambs, but I though this sparkly gold swallow would go well with my very favorite screenprint (for scale, the frame is 22" x 28").  I'm pleased with how they look together.

                           

Vicki had new ceramic houses.  I already regret not getting one that evening!  They were so unique and had an earthy, organic sort of element that drew me in.  I did, however, get this nifty soapdish that my mother pined for at Second Storie.  Now I can finally make my mother's favorite soap (scrubby oat bars with ground oatmeal and spices), put it on this dish, and surprise her with her favorite things.