Katie Ray Arts

Winter News

2012-02-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

Wow I can't believe it's February already! January just passed me by. Probably because it was so busy. Here's what I've been working on...

First thing is that I've been working hard to organize and promote Spark! Art Share. It is coming together wonderfully. We have 15 great artists to provide the contents of the share, options for pick-up or delivery, and just a great model to collect high quality handmades and support a talented group of artists. It works like a farmshare, you pay for the year and get art every month throughout the year. Now is the time to consider if this could work for you. Shares will start in March. I think it'd be a cool, and very unique, Valentine's present for yourself or someone else:) Check out the website to see all the different participating artists or to sign uo.

Secondly, my friend Heather Berlin and I have been doing a collaboration a day, as part of the Fun-A-Day Northampton project, which encouraged local artists to try to work on a project every day in January. We made collages, poetry, claymation, drawings, cookies. We had a lot of fun. The show will be TONIGHT only! Friday the 10th, in the Dynamite Space in Northampton.

Last, but by no means least, tonight is the opening of the Youth Action Coalition show 'Who are "We the People"?', at the Northampton Center for the Arts. My group, Get Up Get Down, worked really hard to make some awesome metal work and installation. We're showing in the East Gallery with Video Vanguards, and all the fabulous photo work is in the West gallery. The show will be up through February, so check it out if you are in town. Though tonight is the time because it will all be happening at once. There is even a public show of ice sculptures tonight! How cool is that!

And if all that hasn't been keeping me busy enough, I've done some really special custom glasswork, I built a wood rack for our house (which is every calling for more projects), I've consigned with 3 more galleries- Frogtowne in Pottstown, PA, Happy Valley Gifts in Northampton, MA, and Sarida in Roslindale, MA- and I'm preparing for a sculpture show at the Burnett Gallery in April. Life is good... but I'm so looking forward to my week off hiking in California!

Spark! Art Share and other December news

2011-12-02T12:27:00.001-08:00

So the holidays are creeping up on us and I've got some fun news for you...

First, and most exciting, is the introduction of Spark! Art Share. Spark! is a unique and special gift for the holidays, as it gives someone art for the whole year rather than an individual item. Spark! works like a farmshare; you pay up front for the year and get art and handmade items from different artists once a month. The shares have just become available, but are limited, so check out the website today! I'm so excited to be presenting such a great array of work made by local artists, and offering a new, innovative way for art enthusiasts to connect with and support artists and the creative economy.

Next in line is the Artisans of WMASS Holiday Promotion. For 2 more days you can get 15% off from participating artists, and next weeks' promotion is free shipping. Check out the Artisans of WMASS website for a full listing.

Tomorrow, Saturday December 3, you can find me at the Northampton Senior Center from 9-2 for their Annual Holiday Crafts Festival.

And on December 11, I'll be at Craftopia in Pawtucket (near Providence, RI).

Another great place to find my work and lots of others, is the Brookline Craft Center where they are hosting an Artist Marketplace December 8-11.

Happy shopping and Happy Holidays!

November Events and News

2011-11-04T12:29:00.001-07:00

Whew! We made it through what my friend coined the "snowpocalypse". I just got my power back after 5 days and I hope you did too! Here's what's going on with Katie Ray Arts in November.

NEWS
I'm excited to say I just finished setting up my glass shop in the new barn. It has great electricity, is insulated for the winter, walls are covered and painted, and glass torch is ready to go. The heated and dry space means that I can teach out of my studio all winter long, so if you've been thinking about coming over to melt some glass with me, now is the time.

Second exciting piece of news to share is that I'm working an ART SHARE for all you art enthusiasts! This will be a CSA type product where you pay for a year and get lots of handmade goodies by local artists throughout the year. This model is great for artists, as it is for farmers, because we make things knowing that they are already paid for, rather than hoping they might sell. As an art share member, you get the excitement of a new piece of great art, fine craft, or functional object once a month throughout the year. You get to support local artists and the creative economy. And this share will make a sweeeet gift for the holidays. I'll let you know when all the details are ironed out but keep it in mind.

EVENTS
Tomorrow, check out the Handmade with Love Craft and Gift Market in the Eastworks building in Easthampton. Put on by Aviva Seiber of Seiber Designs and Karen Shaw Suriner of Stargazer Studios this sweet and cozy event will run from 10-5pm. Look for lots of great items by Artisans of WMASS members. Speaking of Artisans of WMASS, we have a great online sale coming up. Starting November 20, there will be 3 weeks with a different promotion each week- free gift with purchase, 15% off purchase and free shipping, depending on which week you remember to check us out.

And finally, TWIST is the following weekend, November 11/12, at the Northampton Center for the Arts. Friday night from 4-9 and Saturday from 10-6. I'll be hanging out with my buddy Ben of BMW Ironworks in the side room, so make sure to come find us. This is one of the hippest crafty events around, and its always a fun time. On Friday there'll be drinks and a DJ, and if you feel like paying to come to the VIP party from 4-6, you get a swag bag, food and drinks. Definitely worth checking out whenever you can make it.

That's all for now. Happy November!

All that comes with fall...

2011-09-05T05:09:00.000-07:00

The busy time for crafters is beginning! This weekend in Springfield is one of my favorite shows from last year, Mattoon Street Arts Festival. This show has been going on for a long time and has a great reputation. The website touts that "The Mattoon Street Arts Festival features 90+ exhibitors, food vendors, and strolling musicians. This is the longest running arts and crafts fair in Western Massachusetts, and one of the best in New England.Parking and admission are free. We are only three blocks from I-91. Come join us at this family-friendly event. Great for holiday shopping, seeing new craft ideas, or just walking on a beautiful Victorian street."

As you start to have thoughts about holiday shopping, remember to not only visit handmade shows, but also support those businesses who carry local artists' work. You can find my work in a variety of places throughout the area- Northampton Beadery, Red Lion Inn, North Adams Artist Co-op Gallery, Petersham Craft Center, Bridgewater Art and the Wandering Peacock. Coming soon you will also be able to find my work at Salmon Falls Gallery in Shelburne Falls and Happy Valley Gifts in Northampton. If you do go shopping at one of these galleries, thank them for supporting their local makers and let them know that you care.

Artisans of WMASS is excited to announce that we are now officially a non-profit, and we have a beautiful new website, thanks to Vicki of Weyakin Designs. AWM is always a great source to find local handmade goods, and now you can search by types of products, or by artist. You can also find out where which shows we'll be at by looking at the shows and events page.

And finally, if you are still dying to take a beadmaking class, I have one coming up in Northampton on October 22. Contact Northampton Beadery to sign up. Limit 5 students so call quickly if you are interested. My new studio in Hadley will be up and running by the winter, so if that date doesn't work for you, you can also contact me to make other arrangements.

Enjoy the beautiful New England Fall!

Florence Friday Festival

2011-07-21T16:24:00.000-07:00

This afternoon you can find me at the Florence Friday Festival. Great band, awesome food, kid activities, friends & colleagues & neighbors. Handmade treatsies. What better way to enjoy a Friday afternoon in the summer? Come join us from 3-7 at the Cutlery Building in Florence.

I'm about to be off on some adventures for a few weeks, but when I come back it will already be time for the 4th Annual Chilifest at Stone Soup Farm! Save the date- Saturday, August 20, 12-5. Farm festival featuring a chili cook-off, live music, salsa tasting, farm tours, artisans and more.

Finally, for anyone looking for a beadmaking class in the Northampton area, I'll be teaching a 4 hour introductory workshop on October 22 at Northampton Beadery. Contact them to sign up. http://www.northamptonbeadery.com/

Mural Unveiled and Homebrew Hoedown

2011-06-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

Well, the youth of Get Up Get Down pulled it off again. They worked hard to finish a stunning and thoughtful mural which has been installed and unveiled on the wall near the Amherst Cinema Building. Go take a look when you get a chance. Also, check out this blog article from one of our sponsoring businesses, left-click, to hear about the exhibit and unveiling event.

On Saturday, June 18th, from 4-8pm, we are hosting the Homebrew Hoedown, a fundraiser to help us get our new place up and running and a celebration of the same! For your donation of $15-25, you get to come join the festivities, and try a bunch of tasty beers that were donated by friendly homebrewers. The location of the party, Rocky Hill Rd in Hadley, will be the new home of Katie Ray Arts, and Stone Soup Farm. We hope you can join us.

My next big show is the Green River Fest on July 16 and 17, and I'll remind you about it as we get closer, but it should be rockin' good time, so you might want to buy tickets ahead of time.

Twist, Beadmaking Workshop, Community Paint Day

2011-05-02T19:20:00.001-07:00

Twist is this weekend! Yet another round of fun and inspiring DIY crafters presenting you with their goodies. Now in it's 6th round, the event is held at the Northampton Center for the Arts and features all kinds of unique, handmade things. Definitely worth a visit! Added bonus, you can surely find that last minute mother's day present you need while having a great time.

Check out this article written by Sarah Platanitis of Ansel Blue, a fellow vendor and long time Twister. Find Twist on facebook, and check out the website for all the details.

Spring Beadmaking Workshop! Come try something new and have a great time doing it! Learn about flameworking and make your own beads at ETTA Art Studio in Amherst on Saturday, May 14th, from 1-5pm.

Here's the official blurb:
Introduction to Glass Beadmaking

This fun workshop will introduce students to the art of
flameworking by learning to melt glass over a small torch to make
beautiful glass beads. The four hour workshop will allow students
to have a great time trying something new. Basic bead formation and
decorative techniques will be demonstrated, and students
will be given time to play and practice.

$60 plus $15 material fee Instructor will bring materials
and provide all tools and equipment.
1/2 price deposit to hold your spot. Limit 5 students.
contact 413-230-3272 or etta.arts@yahoo.com to sign up

Community Paint Day

Last, but certainly not least.... Get Up Get Down will be having an open community paint day on May 19th from 3-6pm at Kendrick Park in Amherst. Come paint with us, preview the new youth mural that will be going up in town, and dialogue with the youth about their visions of our community and the future.

P.S. Save the Date! June 18th, Beer Tasting Fundraising event at the new site of Stone Soup Farm.

Spring News

2011-04-23T07:02:00.001-07:00

Our new barn in need of a paint job.

Well, the new energy of spring has sprung, and despite the cold and rain, I'm diving into new projects in all directions. My partner and I just bought a home and will be moving his farm- Stone Soup Farm- and my studios to our new place over the coming months. Both the house and barn require much of our energy as we work on renovations, but by next summer we should be all settled with our freshly painted signs welcoming you to our art studio and farm in Hadley. Coming up in June, we'll be hosting a Beer Tasting Fundraiser event to help us get things going, and the first thing we need is COMPOST! Tons of it! I'll let you know the details shortly.

Get Up Get Down mural design

The second big project I'm working on is with my youth program, Get Up Get Down. A group of fabulous Amherst youth have designed a mural which has been approved to be installed on a wall in the center of town, at the Cinema parking lot for those of you who know Amherst. We've worked hard to create a mural design that incorporates lots of ideas from each of the youth that they'd like visible in their community. Now we are cutting panels, priming, designing metal elements, and looking forward to the unveiling on June 2nd at the Amherst Art Walk. This will be in conjunction with a Youth Action Coalition exhibit in the Burnett Gallery at the library across the street. We're planning an open community paint day for May 19th, so you can come talk to the youth and join in the fun!

Glass knobs on glassware cabinet

Finally, I've continued to make my usual creations, but I've also taken on some custom projects this winter. I recently finished making a set of glass knobs and blacksmithed drawer pulls for an entire kitchen, which was quite an undertaking. This project required 14 drawer pulls, individually formed of steel, and about 70 glass pieces that were each mounted to hardware. I also made a custom lamp shade frame, and a glass vase urn for someone's loved one. Keep me in mind if you are thinking about redoing a kitchen or bathroom, or have some other custom projects that I could help you realize. I also have a new website up and running at www.katierayart.com

By the next time I write, I'm sure the weather will be beautiful and you'll be excited to come out to the spring shows to stretch your legs :)

P.S. Remember Artisans of WMASS when you need a birthday present, mother's day gift, etc. Many of those things that you can buy from manufacturers all over the world are also hand made by your neighbors!

Sculpture at Amherst Chamber Thursday

2011-03-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

I have a sculpture show at Amherst Chamber of Commerce for the month of March. Opens at Amherst Artwalk on Thursday, March 3, from 5-8pm. Galleries will be open across town. Take an artistic evening stroll... ?

Beadmaking Demo at ETTA Studio Thursday, and Valentine Shopping at Handmade with Love, February 12

2011-02-02T10:12:00.001-08:00

I'll be doing a glass beadmaking demo at the ETTA Studio in Amherst tomorrow night (February 3) as part of a bigger event showcasing local Youth Art and ETTA's instructor work. There will be a live band and other festivities. I'll be lighting up the torch around 6pm to get folks excited to make some glass beads in my class which starts next week! Still accepting sign ups for this class- limit 5 people. Try something new, and warm, this winter!

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Thursday Feb. 3rd, ART WALK AMHERST 5pm-7pm.
*ETTA Art Gallery located at 534 Main Street in Amherst is proud to
Exhibit the work of our teachers and students.

Come and delight in the wonderful Art Works that will be on display made by children and teens of all ages. Paintings, mini-environments, collages, drawings, paper-mache and clay sculptures can be viewed during the month of February.

*A special DEMO during this month's Art Walk: GLASS BEAD-MAKING
by artist Katie Richardson
Thursday 5-7pm FEB.3rd during ART WALK
with Live Music with local Teen Band "Who'da Funk It".

******************************************************************************************************************************

Try Something New! Glass Beadmaking

2011-01-09T09:03:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Just letting you know that I have 3 upcoming glass beadmaking classes for those of you who have been wanting to give it a try.

Option 1: ETTA Art Studio
EMPOWERMENT THROUGH THE ARTS
534 Main street
Amherst, MA 01002
413-230-3272 or etta.arts@yahoo.com
Introduction to Glass Beadmaking

This fun class will introduce students to the art of flameworking by learning to melt glass over a small torch to make
stunning glass beads. Basic techniques such as using stringers, cane, dots, layering, and raking will be covered,
and students will leave with a variety of beautiful handmade beads.

4 Tuesday sessions, 6-8pm: 2/8, 2/15, 3/1, 3/8
Class cost-$140. $15 material fee per class
Instructor will bring materials and provide all tools and equipment.

1/2 price deposit to hold your spot. Limit 5 students.

Option 2:
Bisque Beads and Beyond
141 North Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 442-9300

Glass Beadmaking Workshop, 2 sessions on January 22nd, 9am-noon, or 1-4pm

Come hang out for a morning or afternoon and see what its like to melt glass over a torch to make colorful beads. Basic techniques will be demonstrated and you'll leave having made a few of your own beads. Truly unlike anything else you've tried- this incredible craft is sure to have you mesmerized!

$75 for the workshop plus $10 materials fee

Option 3:
Bridgewater Art
232 Broad St
Bridgewater, MA 02324
(508) 279-0707

March 5th, 3 hour workshops, 9-noon or 1-4. More details to come.

Call Bridgewater Art or let me know if you're interested in this one and we'll be sure to get you all the info.

Last Minute Holiday Treats- Friday

2010-12-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

Here's your last chance before the holidays to grab some great handmade goodies. Come to the Winter Warmtimes- a festive gathering featuring 5 local artisans' work, the Connotation singing and fun times together in a relaxed home atmosphere. 5-9pm this Friday, December 17th, at 22 Aldrich St Northampton.

Also, I'm having a sale in my etsy shop. 10% off all items Wednesday and Thursday this week (12/15-16). Just type in 'HolidaySale' when you are asked for a coupon code. I will be offering free shipping on Friday as part of a national Free Shipping Day.

As always, check out artisansofwmass.com for more great local gift ideas.

Happy Holidays!

Weekend Events!

2010-12-03T17:36:00.000-08:00

This weekend you can find me at two great events- both great opportunities to wrap up that holiday shopping with local, handmade goodies. Saturday is the Crafty Rumpus put on by the Greenfield Center School. The Rumpus you say? Yes, its called the Rumpus! I mean its gotta be work a visit. You can browse the list of artists and get more info here .

Then on Sunday I'll be at one of Boston most exciting handmade events of the season- The Boston Bizarre Bazaar! This one features a great big selection of handmade art, craft, functional and decorative wonders. The info is all here http://bazaarbizarre.org/boston/.

SCULPTURE SHOW

Finally, I will have a sculpture show opening in Northampton next Friday night, December 10, during Northampton Arts Night Out in the Living Arts Studio, 5-8pm. This will be a sweet little show of sculpture, with some new and some old work included. You can see all the participating galleries by going to the Arts Night Out site here. http://artsnightout.wordpress.com/

And as always, please try to keep you dollars local by shopping through Artisans of WMASS! Many of our Etsy shops will be holding promotions in December, including free shipping day on the 17th, or other discounts. Search "wmass team" on Etsy to find all these great local artisans.

Artisans of WMASS + Artspace Holiday Sale, Twist and Craftopia

2010-11-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

UPDATES from ARTISANS of WMASS

Our fabulous group of local artists and artisans is expanding rapidly (now over 50 members!) to include a fabulous selection of handmade art and good. Please remember to check us out as you start to think about your holiday shopping, and tell your friends too. Shopping with us is a great way to support local artists and the creative culture of the region as well as keep money in your own community. Check out our website to see all the fabulous things we have to offer. Look on the blog for the various shows we'll attending. Grab a bumper sticker from us at a show, plop in on your car to help spread the word. And stay tuned for a special AWM online holiday sale! www.artisansofwmass.com

NOVEMBER SHOWS

This Friday and Saturday you will find me in Greenfield among a variety of handmade treasures. Artspace in Greenfield, MA is sponsoring a Holiday Gift Sale at Greenfield High School on Friday, Nov. 5, 6 – 9 pm and Saturday, Nov. 6, 10 – 4 pm. Admission and parking are free. Thirty artists will participate, showcasing works in fiber, pottery, glass, jewelry, painted furniture, wooden bowls, holiday ornaments, paintings, photography, dolls, doll clothes and more will be available at the sale. The sale is located at Greenfield High School on Lenox Ave., Greenfield MA.

Next weekend, come on out for TWIST, the valley's favorite indie craft show. Twist is a fresh kind of fair, showcasing original goods and art from 60+ talented vendors. It's always a lot of fun, with music and drinks on Friday night, continuing all day Saturday for lots of holiday shopping. As usual I'll be in the East Gallery next to my friend Ben Westbrook of BMW Ironworks and Donnabelle of Donabelle Designs. Get some veggie glasswork for your friends and family, or order that something special you've been thinking about.

The vibe of this show is just awesome and the selection and ingenuity is outstanding. I really recommend a visit. It's held in the Northampton Center for the Arts beginning on Friday November 12 with VIP entrance from 4-6pm. If you come then you have to pay more, but you get a swag bag ad first peek at all the goodies! Then the show opens for the regular admission price from 6-9pm and continues on Saturday from 10-6pm.

Finally, on Sunday the 14th, I'll be at another sweet show for any of you who are farther south or feel like taking a drive. Craftopia, a great indie fair run by Rhody Craft, is in it's second season. It's located in Pawtucket Rhode Island, just outside Providence and will be open from 10-5pm.

'Complementary Contrast' opens this week!

2010-10-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

The work in this show is about complementary contrast, between Joshua Primmer's work and that of Katie Richardson's. "We make diverse forms through very different approaches, yet the works seem to formally complement each other and start a conversation," states Richardson. She continues: "The show is so named also for the binary elements in each of our individual work. For me, the material contrast is the combination of glass and metal. Glass is seen as a delicate, beautiful, fragile material, while steel is associated with structure, rigidity, and strength. These materials complement each other and create a delicate balance while the forms defy the traditional characteristics associated with the materials...The thematic contrast in my work is safety/ danger, fear/ comfort, belonging / exclusion"

Primmer adds: "The elements that I contrast in my work are surface and form. This is an abstraction of the relationship between medium and process and the relationship between nature and man/technology. Medium and nature are represented by surface and process and man/technology are represented by form."

Hope you get a chance to see it! I know it's far away for those of you down here in the valley, but a trip up to North Adams at this time of the year is gorgeous, so its a good excuse. Take a drive, see some art, go hiking among the fall colors and enjoy!

Garlic and Arts Festival and Amherst Biennial Exhibition

2010-10-01T15:50:00.000-07:00

Come one, come all, to the stinkiest festival in MA?! The Garlic and Arts Festival is this weekend in Orange, MA and promises to be a lot of fun. The clouds look like they'll clear away for us. The Festival runs from 10-5 on Saturday and Sunday this weekend, October 2nd and 3rd. It features a wide variety of arts and crafts, lots of great music (including a brief set by my acapella group, the Connotations, at 2:30 on Saturday), activities for kids, and tons of yummy, garlicky food.

Next weekend, the Amherst Biennial Exhibition will awaken the creative juices of folks all over Amherst. This exhibition is being held in multiple sites across town, from the NACUL Gallery at UMASS to the new ETTA Gallery/ Community Photo Access. I'm excited to see the work that was selected as I imagine it will be a stunning representation of local artist. Two of my sculptures, Tucked Away and Cascade, will be included in the show. Read the info below for more details, who's involved and where to go when. Hope to see you there!

Old Deerfield and more!

2010-09-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'll be at one of the areas oldest shows, the Old Deerfield Fall Art and Craft Festival. Not only are their tons of interesting vendors, many of whom I've been seen at other shows this year, but they are doing wine and cheese tasting, scarecrows and artist demos. Check out their website here and print an entrance coupon.

Also coming up next weekend is the Amherst Apple Harvest Festival on Saturday the 25th on the Amherst Common. This was a great show last year, and promises to be much fun again this year.

SAVE THE DATE!
Complimentary Contrast: Works by Katie Richardson and Joshua Primmer will open at North Adams Artist Co-op Gallery on October 28, 5-8. The show will be up from October 27 to November 28, and will feature many new sculptural pieces by both artists. Make sure to check out MASS MOCA when you come up to see the show, and enjoy fall in the beautiful Berkshires.

BEADMAKING CLASSES
Last but not least, if you are itching to take a beadmaking class or workshop, I'll be teaching an intro workshop at Bisque, Beads and Beyond in Pittsfield on September 26. Last I heard there were still 2 spots available for the morning session. If that's too far for you to travel, let me know if you'd like to join a class in Northampton next time I run one, or if you'd like to set up private instruction or a home workshop.

Chilifest! and Upcoming Bead Classes

2010-08-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

CHILIFEST!

Stone Soup Farm's biggest event of the year is this Saturday, August 21st- the 3rd Annual Chilifest! A great time is had by all, what with farm tours, music, hayrides, a chili cook-off, salsa tasting, artisans and more, there is something for everyone. Its free and open to the public, and is really a celebration of summer, good healthy food and our lovely farm. I organize the whole shabang, so you'll find my metal and glasswork there, along with a bunch of other vendors, many of whom are part of my group Artisans of WMASS.

I hope you'll be able to join us! Let me know if you'd like to submit some chili for the cook-off! Winner gets a giant veggie basket to take home. Even if you aren't going to bring your smokin' chili, maybe you could bring a plate of muffins or a fruit salad. All contributions are welcome. It's free because we do it potluck style and ask for participation, but we can't feed everyone all by ourselves.

Check out the line up of artists and musicians on Stone Soup Farm's website and invite your friends via Facebook.

UPCOMING BEADMAKING CLASSES

OPTION 1) In collaboration with Bisque, Beads and Beyond in Pittsfield, I'll be teaching 2 introductory beadmaking workshops on September 26. One session in the morning, 9-12 and one in the afternoon 1-4. This is a great opportunity to try something new and have a lot of fun. We'll get you on a torch melting glass and you'll get to leave with a few of your own sweet creations. All the info is HERE, and you should contact the store directly to sign up.

OPTION 2) For those of you who missed my last bead class at Valley Hands in Northampton over the summer, here is the new plan. Let me know that you'd like to take the class, and when it fills, we'll begin. It will run Tuesday nights for 4 weeks from 7-9pm. Cost is $150, materials included. We only need 5 people to fill the class, so tell your friends and we'll start one up as soon as possible.

Teacher/Artist Show: Reception Next Week

2010-07-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

This intriguing art exhibit displays the work of 10 artists who are also teachers. The show will be up through mid- September, but the reception is next Wednesday, August 4 from 4-6pm. Eagle Hill Cultural Center is also a really neat place if you've never been.

Watch for these UPCOMING EVENTS in August:

Handmade in the Park, August 7, 10-5pm in Lee, MA. Put on by BerkshireMade.

3rd Annual Chilifest at Stone Soup Farm, August 21, 12-5pm, 275 Jackson Street, Belchertown, MA

Events This Weekend!

2010-07-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hi friends,

Just letting you know that tomorrow I'll be at Valley Hands during Northampton Arts Night Out, making glass beads along with another jewelry artist Lisa Oram. This is a FREE EVENT, a fun and creative way to spend the evening. Artist Demonstrations and Acoustic Guitar by Corleen Roberts from Agawam. Friday, July 9th 4-8pm, watch glass beadmaking, listen to some music, have a sip of wine & a snack,chat with the artists, pull up a chair and Watch Art Develop!

Then on Saturday and Sunday, I'll be in Springfield at the Hoop City Jazz Festival! The festival is free to all and offers a stellar line up of entertainment, including many Grammy Award winners on stage along with Springfield’s own Greg Caputo’s Big Band. This year’s performers include: Terence Blanchard, Average White Band, Elan Trotman, Zoe with Cindy Bradley, Kashif, Ken Navarro, Greg Caputo’s Big Band, Ed Fast & Conga Bop, Soul Source, Modern Riffs, and the Springfield Youth Chorus. Looks like a lot of fun and a chance to hear some great music. Hope to see you there!

Finally, I'll be in Pittsfield again next week for their Third Thursday event which shuts down the main street in Pittsfield, opening it up for a festive evening of live music, new art, including many folks from our AWM sister group BerkshireMade, great dining & shopping late!

Bead Class- Sign up Now!, Treasury and Events

2010-06-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

I'm still taking last minute sign-ups for my Glass Beadmaking Class starting this Tuesday in Northampton. Please let me know if you are interested and tell your friends!
*****
One of my bottle stoppers was just featured in this squiggle themed treasury. Its a pretty fun group of artisan squiggles, I must say.

*****
Come see me on Wednesday (6/23) at "Taste of Tourism" at Oliver Wight Tavern in Old Sturbridge Village, 5-8pm.
*****
Also, this Saturday (6/26) , an event not to be missed....BerkshireMade presents Art in the Park. Promises to be filled with lots of fabulous, hand-crafted, locally made goodies. BerkshireMade is a team of Berkshire artists and artisans who aim to promote local art and support artists in their work. They are a sister group to my crew- Artisans of WMASS- and have invited us to join in this exciting event.

Beadmaking Class, Craft Party, Upcoming Events

2010-06-05T11:04:00.001-07:00

Whew! After a busy time finishing up the Borders and Bridges project, which was a great culmination of my M.Ed project and installation work around immigration and education, I'm looking ahead to new and exciting things. First, I'll be offering a beadmaking class in Northampton starting mid June. Here's all the info....

Introduction to Glass Beadmaking

Tuesday Nights, June 22- July 13, 7-9pm

This fun class will introduce students to flameworking by learning to make

stunning glass beads. Basic techniques such as using stringers, cane, dots,

layering, and raking will be covered, and students will leave with a variety

of beautiful handmade beads, maybe even small sculptures.

Cost: $115, materials included

Instructor: Katie Richardson, katierayart.etsy.com, katierayarts.mosaicglobe.com

To sign up: Email katierayrich@gmail.com. A $50 deposit is required to hold your space. This can be paid through Paypal or by sending a check to Katie at PO Box 1486, Belchertown, MA 01007.

Location: Valley Hands, 342 Pleasant St, Northampton, MA

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Next, I'm hosting a networking event/ craft party with my group Artisans of WMASS.

www.artisansofwmass.com

PLEASE FORWARD TO ANY ARTISTS/ARTISANS/MAKERS in WMASS

Hey we are having a Craft Party! Western MA artists, artisans, makers of any kind, come hang out, network, work on a project. June 18th, 7-9pm, Dynamite Space in Thornes, Northampton, MA. Hosted by Artisans of WMASS, supported by Valley Art Share. Go to the link below to RSVP. Please RSVP asap (by MONDAY JUNE 7) so we can get our numbers up. (If we are in the top 50 of these parties across the country, etsy will send us free goodies!! It's Etsy's anniversary so there are inciting these parties across the country. I thought it is a great excuse for a fun artist gathering.)

http://www.meetup.com/Etsy-Craft-Party/3046/

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Last but not least- lots of UPCOMING EVENTS!

June 12: Marketplace at Hampshire College's 40th Anniversary Celebration 11-5pm, and Gallery Opening for Alumni Art Exhibit, 4-6pm

June 17: I'll be in Pittsfield for their Third Thursday event starting at 4pm, selling my wares and doing glass bead demos outside the shop Bisque, Beads and Beyond.

June 23: 5-8pm, Taste of Toursim Event, Oliver Wight Tavern in Old Sturbridge Village

June 26: Berkshire Made Presents Art in the Park in downtown Lee, MA 10-5pm

Borders and Bridges Project Opens this week!

2010-05-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

Please come join us for the opening and events of the Borders and Bridges Project! A mix of art installation and M.Ed leadership project by Katie Richardson and Jackie Chromey, dealing with issues of identity, education, immigration and home.

Opening: Friday May 21, 7-9pm
Conferences: Saturday 5/22 and 5/29, 1-5pm
Film Screenings: Monday 5/24and Thurs 5/27, 7pm. Monday we'll screen a series of short films, Thursday we'll screen "Children in No Man's Land".

All events held in the Dynamite Space, basement of Thornes, Northampton.
Sponsored by Commonwealth Center for Change

Additional open hours and more info at:

http://teachimmigration.wordpress.com/of-borders-and-bridges

or search "Borders and Bridges" on facebook

Please spread the word!
questions: katierayrich@gmail.com

Great WMASS Etsy Treasury

2010-05-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

Check out this lovely collection of items listed on etsy by members of Artisans of WMASS. http://www.etsy.com/treasury/e085ea1dbdbccb4b7af79900/delightfully-dreamy

Our group is growing and flourishing, supporting and networking with local artists, encouraging the local and the handmade. Search "wmass team" on etsy for more great stuff from western mass. My garlic bottle stopper is featured in this treasury! Thanks Karen of moonandsundries.etsy.com for the great selections.

Higgins Armory and TWIST!

2010-04-26T09:51:00.001-07:00

Coming up this Friday is an event at the wine event at Higgins Armory. Check it out at http://www.higgins.org/int-wine.php. It looks like there'll be lots of tasty treats! And I know there will be a great selection of glass bottle stoppers as well as beautiful corkscrews and beer openers made by my friend Ben Westbrook of BMW Ironworks. http://hammeronsteel.etsy.com

Then next weekend at the Northampton Center for the Arts is TWIST 4.0! This is an event not to be missed. Twist is a fresh kind of fair, showcasing original goods and art from 60+ talented vendors. Twist is held twice a year, in May and November. Save the dates for an exciting feast of shopping and fun!

Friday May 7, 2010
VIP Reception 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Market Party 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Saturday May 8, 2010
10:00 am - 6:00 pm

twistfair.com for more info. See you there!

Bead Extravaganza Tomorrow and Sustainability Festival

2010-04-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

TOMORROW! This is an excellent sampling of top notch bead makers who make truly amazing stuff. Definitely worth the trip! I'll be there absorbing their splendor while selling my veggie earrings and other accessories.

April 17,2010 10am-5pm
*Holiday Inn, 265 Lakeside Ave, Marlboro MA*

Welcome to Glass Bead Extravaganza 10, Presented by the Boston Chapter of the International Society of Glass Beadmakers. Glass Bead Extravaganza is THE PREMIER all glass bead show in the Northeast. This year's show features exceptional glass beads, and finished pieces from over 30 glass artists with a wide range of styles to fit everyone's tastes. You will also find a variety of glass-working tools as well as jewelry and beading supplies to interest beginners to professional designers.

NEXT WEEKEND- APRIL 24TH, 10-4 PM
SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL IN DOWNTOWN AMHERST

The 1st Annual Amherst Sustainability Festival is being held
in the downtown area from Kendrick Park to the Town Common.
Lots of us from Artisans of WMASS will be showing our handmade goodies!

Bead Class and Craftopia

2010-03-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

I have a 3 hour introduction to glass beadmaking class with one spot open for you! Sunday morning, March 28th, 9-noon in Northampton (actually Florence). You'll get to melt glass with a torch and leave having made some of your very own beads! It's lots of fun, I promise...
$50 for the class, all materials included.

--------------------------------------------------
Upcoming craft show on April 11th. This will be my first adventure down there to RI, but it looks like it will be a good one!

And....Last but not least...

**Save the Date- Opening May 21 through May 30**

Of Borders and Bridges: Complex Identities in Education

This project is a multimedia artistic and academic exploration of how diversity and belonging are constructed and contested in public education and how this impacts people as individuals and as a nation.

Hosted by Commonwealth Center for Change, in the Dynamite Space in the bottom of Thornes, Northampton.

----------------------------------------
Call for workshops, presentations and multimedia contributions for a mini-conference to be held in the space on May 22nd or 29th. Please email a proposal by April 15th.

Also seeking artists who are interested in contributing or collaborating and volunteers to help assist in installation, gallery sitting, poetry reading and other facilitating roles.

Please contact katierayrich@gmail.com to get involved.

Old Deerfield- Spring Sampler Show

2010-03-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

This weekend is the first big show of the year, the Deerfield Spring Sampler! Don't be fooled- its actually held in West Springfield- Saturday and Sunday, March 13/14, from 10-5 both days.

LOCATION: 1305 Memorial Av, West Springfield, MA 01089
At the Eastern States Expo, "Home of the Big E."

go here for an admission coupon
http://www.deerfieldcraft.com/Coupon/index.php

My booth will be surrounded by other great artisans from our group "Artisans of Western Mass" in booths 147-150. Artisans of WMASS is a group dedicated to promoting things local and handmade. www.artisansofwmass.com

Hope to see you there!

http://www.deerfieldcraft.com/ for more info

Upcoming Glass Class

2010-01-26T06:29:00.001-08:00

Starting Tuesday, February 23, and continuing for 6 weeks, I'll be teaching an intro glass class. The class will be an introduction to flameworking using a portable set up that allows us to create stunning beads out of moretti glass. Learn how to melt glass, form beads and decorate with a variety of technique including dots, stringers, raking, plunging and more. Class is 7-9 Tuesday nights at the Mudspun Art Center in Belchertown.
You can find more info at www.mudspunartscenter.com.

As always, if this time doesn't work for you, contact me to arrange for private workshops or lessons at my studio.

***Also, don't forget to visit the Dirty Truth in Northampton to see my sculpture show before it comes down on Feb 1st. Reception is today, Tuesday, January 26, from 5-7. ***

Sculpture Show and Reception

2010-01-10T14:08:00.000-08:00

Sculptural Explorations (Seeking Home)

Come join me for a reception on January 26, 5-7pm, celebrating my current sculpture show! The show is a grouping of work exploring issues of home-safety/danger, fragility/strength, comfort/fear.

If you can't make it on the 26th, stop by the Dirty Truth anytime before February first to check it out.

Start Date: December 21, 2009
End Date: February 1, 2010
Reception Date: January 26
Location Name: The Dirty Truth
Hours: 4pm-2am daily
Address: 29 Main Street
City, ST: Northampton, MA

Artist Statement

We draw lines around everything, we create barriers and borders and barricades, we build walls and fences, physically, socially, culturally, emotionally, economically. Human nature defines the world around us in contexts of in/out, safe/scary, home/foreign, and this system is what allows us to understand the things around us. But what do these lines we draw mean, what do they imply and how do they impact our visions and hopes for our world?
Inspired by these intersections of human life and social context, and the insane necessity of these lines we draw, I join the never-ending search for home. I revel in both the natural world and mechanized beauty, and make nests and cocoons of organic warmth and rigid cold. These forms question boundaries between safety/danger, fragility/strength and comfort/fear. Who belongs and who protects? Who gives life and nurtures it? What is safety and who is home?

Festive Home Art Show!

2009-12-14T07:05:00.000-08:00

Weekend Events

2009-12-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

The 4th Annual Bizarrest Little Snowflake Bazaar will bring together some of the area’s finest crafters and musicians in a holiday celebration that promotes our lively local arts scene! This delightful event is a unique way for friends and neighbors to gather for a day of fun holiday shopping in an intimate and beautiful space. Please join RUSTY BELLE, The Fine & Dandy Trio, and various LOCAL ARTISANS on Saturday December 5th, at the lovely Unitarian Meetinghouse*, 121 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002. Admission is FREE!
The Artisans...

* Around The Bend Creations
* Baked Earth Boutique
* Big Cheese Crafts
* BMW Ironworks
* Elizabeth Sylvan Quilts
* Katie Ray Arts
* Moon & Sundries
* POPKO!
* Sew Soft
* Stargazer Studios
* Sun Moon Stars
* Valley Of The Doll

Buy Local. Buy Handmade.

In today's sagging economy, shopping locally handmade has never been more important. The Bizarrest Little Snowflake Bazaar provides an opportunity for you to meet the artist behind each creation, buy unique gifts that are made with a high degree of craftsmanship, and keep your dollars local.

On Sunday, I'll be at the Design Hive in Cambridge. This promises to be a lot of fun too.

Handmade Holidaze this Sunday, Dec 6 (10am - 5pm)
Give the mall - and your pocketbook - a rest this holiday season. Score hip, affordable, one-of-a-kind gifts from over 60 vendors selling art, clothing, jewelry, housewares and more at this Sunday's Design Hive.

Maria Baldwin School
28 Sacramento St (at corner of Oxford St. off Mass Ave )
Between Harvard and Porter Squares in Cambridge

TWIST!

2009-11-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

Hi folks,

Here it is- TWIST 3.0! Come see all the great handmade goods and get a start on your holiday shopping. This year buy handmade and support your local economy!
I'll have lots of goodies there including more lampworked veggies, new sculptures and more. Here's the info...

Greetings!

Twist III is almost here - save the date for the best Twist shopping event yet! 60+ of the most talented artists from Maine to Rhode Island will exhibit their wares in Northampton, MA next week... and you're invited.

Location
Northampton Center for the Arts
17 New South Street
Northampton, MA USA

Show dates/hours
Friday 11/13 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Saturday 11/14 10:00am-6:00pm

Regular Admission
Adults $3
Kids 6-12 $1
Kids 5 and under FREE

**VIP Reception**
Friday 11/13 4-6 pm
Tickets $20 (available at the Twist store or at the door)
VIP ticket includes complimentary beverages and snacks, admission to the fair both days, and our coveted Swag Bag (available while supplies last!)

The Twist Store
The Twist "pop-up" store is open seven days a week thru December only. Be sure to stop by for a preview and to shop ahead of the show. We're located on the second floor of Thornes Marketplace at 150 Main Street, Northampton, MA.

See you there!

www.twistfair.com

Etsy Treasury

2009-10-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

My tree bottle stopper is featured here!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=89949

Upcoming Classes and NEW Twist Store

2009-10-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

UPCOMING GLASS CLASSES
Come melt glass with me!

One day workshop at Petersham Craft Center on Oct 17th, 10-4. This class will introduce you to the art of glass beadmaking. Learn basic techniques and leave with a handful of unique glass creations. See petershamcraftcenter.org for more information and to sign up.

Starting on Oct 19, Monday nights for 6 weeks, I'll be teaching an Intro Bead Class at the Mudspun Art Center in Belchertown. Check out mudspunartscenter.com for more information.

As always, if you'd like to set up a workshop for yourself or a group of friends, contact me to arrange details.
------------------------------------

Also, GREAT NEWS........ the folks who put on the Twist fair are opening up a pop-up store on the 2nd Floor of Thornes Marketplace in Northampton, MA from this weekend through December. Come see all the handmade goodies from Twist vendors. They'll be open

Monday through Wednesday: 10-6

Thursday through Saturday: 10-9

Sunday: 12-5

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Remember to visit me on Etsy at www.katierayart.etsy.com.
And search "wmass team" to find other local artists on Etsy.

Harvest Festival/ stART on the Street

2009-09-18T05:12:00.002-07:00

Join us for stART on the Street 2009: stART in MOTION!!

It's finally here! Worcester's biggest and best cultural street festival

Sunday, September 20th
11am - 5pm,

Park Avenue between Highland and Pleasant Streets

Worcester, MA

Attendance is FREE!

Over 240 visual artists and crafters, 30 bands and performers on two stages, free interactive Youth Activites, 15 area restaurants and caterers and intergenerational activities brought to you by WOOphoria, the 10th Anniversary celebration of the Worcester Cultural Coalition.

Want to learn more? View artists, performers, food vendors and
more at
www.startonthestreet.org

Lots of Upcoming Events

2009-09-07T12:27:00.001-07:00

This Friday, in conjunction with the Northampton Art Walk, I'll be at Valley Hands demonstrating glass beadmaking and selling my wares. Come on by.

Watch Art Develop at Valley Hands

Fri Sept 11 4-8pm

Wine, Snacks & Artists Creating!

A fun and creative way to spend Friday evening.

Meet the artists, pull up a chair & Watch Art Develop right before your eyes!

This month's feature artists include:

Annie Bissett ~ a Northampton based artist and freelance illustrator, began learning the techniques of Japanese woodblock (moku hanga) in 2005 and has devoted herself to printmaking since then. Come watch her work and create! www.anniebissett.com

Colleen Blackard ~ Northampton. My art is meant to share my experience of the universe. I'm creating the absence of light in order to form light using familiar materieals. Come and watch the process unfold! www.colleenblackard.carbonmade.com

Katie Richardson - Belchertown. I work primarily in glass and metal, though I enjoy experimenting with other materials, too. I'm inspired by nature, people's stories and struggles and the process of making. I hope to enrich people's lives with beautiful and functional objects that delight the eye and remind people of creativity in human nature. Come and be dazzled! www.katierichardson.mosaicglobe.com

VALLEY HANDS

Creative Space

Rent ~ Attend ~ Exhibit & Demonstrate ~ Consignment

342 Pleasant St NORTHAMPTON

near Oxbow Gallery and Northampton Coffee on the opposite side

near Memory Lane Antiques

413.335.9235 www.valleyhands.com

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I'll be teaching an introductory glass beadmaking class starting
October 19, Monday nights for 6 weeks, at the Mud Spun Arts Center in Belchertown.
Check out www.mudspunartscenter.com/workshops for more info.

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On Sunday, Sept 13, 11-7, I'll be showing at the Narrows Festival for the Arts in Fall River, MA.
Looks like a really fun event, street vendors, music, along the waterfront.
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Look for me at:

Ryan and Casey Beer and Wine Harvest Festival, Greenfield, MA, Sept 19, 12-5

stART on the Street, Worchester, MA, Sept 20, 11-5
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Last but not least, if you take a trip up to North Adams this fall, check out the NAACO Gallery at 33 Main St in North Adams. There is an opening on Thursday, Sept 24th, from 6-8pm, entitled "Out of the Box". The gallery will be showing works that stretch each artists' comfort zone.

Chilifest and Penland

2009-08-24T14:58:00.001-07:00

Stone Soup Farm's Chilifest is this weekend. It should be a lot of fun! Come celebrate with us.
Free and open to the public, celebrating local food, music, art. If you plan on attending, consider bringing a dish to share or entering your chili in the cook-off. (Entries must arrive by 3pm for tasting.) Jarrett and the Stone Soup crew planted about 40 varieties of hot peppers this year! We'll share as many as we have ripe and ready in the salsa tasting.

I recently got home from beautiful Penland School of Crafts, NC. I was taking a flameworking class, which was challenging and a lot of fun. I also scrubbed lots of pots while I was there because I was given a work study scholarship to reduce the cost. It was worth it, but exhausting! Here are some images from Penland.
Here's the instructor Eric Goldschmidt doing a demo for us. Below is a gorgeous piece that he made for the fundraising auction.

Next is the carrot goblet I made, which of course I dropped as I was packing to bring it home.
And finally, though not the best shot, an image of many of the pieces I was working on down there in the mountains.
A view of the mountains from a lookout point on Roan Mountain.

New Sculpture For Community Garden Complete

2009-08-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

Here is the two panel piece I just completed and delivered on Wednesday. It is made from old farm and tractor parts found at NESFI and at the Regional Environmental Council building in Worchester. The piece was delivered to a new educational community garden in Worchester, run by the Regional Environmental Council at 24 Chatham St in Worchester.

The grand opening, "Garden Party", is scheduled for Thursday, August 13th from 4:00-6:00 p.m. in the garden.

Snowfarm and Article Featuring 'Cocoon 2'

2009-07-29T20:23:00.000-07:00

Someone strolling through town found my sculpture at the North Adams Artists' Co-op Gallery and featured it in "Nippertown.com". Here's the link...

http://www.nippertown.com/2009/07/28/hanging-out-in-north-adams#more-6355

I spent the last two weeks at Snowfarm: The New England Craft School, teaching flamework in their Summer High School program. I worked with Joe Peters who is an awesome flameworker, and a bunch of kids who made some really neat work. Here's some pictures from the studio.

Red Barrel Bead

2009-07-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

A bead of mine that someone picked for the street team treasury on etsy!

---go to etsy.com and search "wmass team" to find other western massachusetts artists-----

2009-07-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

I'll be selling my work at this new Market in Northampton on Sunday. Jarrett will be there with Stone Soup Farm veggies in the farmer's market section, and I'll be inside with Katie Ray Arts in the art and craft section. I think this will be a great market, this is only its 3rd week, so come out to support this new venture and help us get things going! We will both be returning often throughout the season. Its located at the old Dodge Cahillane Building, 375 South St, Northampton. 8am-2pm.
-----more info at www.millrivermarketplace.com----

Western Mass Street Team Blog Feature

2009-06-22T08:46:00.003-07:00

Go to Etsy's Western Mass Street Team page to read a feature about me and my work.
http://westernmastreetteam.blogspot.com/

Sculpture Featured on Esty Louge Blog

2009-06-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

Check out etsylounge.blogspot.com to see my "Growth Steel Vessel" featured in the Metal Artistry selection from June 19th!

Asparagus Festival May 16th

2009-05-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

Come check out the Asparagus Festival 10-4 on Saturday, May 16.
Celebrating spring, asparagus, arts and community.... (I think- I've never been :)
West Brookfield, MA on the town common.

MudSpun Gallery Opening Sat May 16th

2009-05-11T10:37:00.000-07:00

Show this Friday- Lotus and Orchid Gallery

2009-05-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Shows

2009-04-11T12:48:00.001-07:00

I've forgotten about the blog for awhile. I'm back with some info on upcoming shows.

Spring Artisan and Crafter Expo
Heirloom Artisan Expos
Saturday April 25, 2009
10am-4pm

Tri County High School, Franklin, MA

and the TWIST FAIR
May 1st and 2nd
Northampton Center for the Arts
twistfair.com

2007-10-13T06:46:00.000-07:00

City Wide Open Studios
Main Exhibition Opened Friday Oct 12 5-8. On view through Oct 28, 50 Orange St. New Haven, CT at Artspace.

My personal studio will also be part of the city wide studio tours on October 20th, open 12-4.
This is at 384 Ellsworth Ave.

2007-10-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

Postcard for the ALL Gallery Contemporary Perspectives Show. Opens Oct 13th, 1-4.

My piece "Permanent Address" is included in this show. On view through early November.

Treehouse

2007-09-04T14:57:00.000-07:00

a collaboration by katie richardson and heather berlin

Installation Opening on Saturday

2007-06-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

Heather Berlin and I will be collaborating on a installation combining our favorite media- metal and fabric, opening at the Pushkin Gallery in Greenfield on Saturday evening.

Nests (Glass and Steel)

2007-05-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

corazon de metal

2007-05-26T19:57:00.000-07:00