More News About 37 Elizabeth St Gallery in Derby!

Well, we just had our second "opening" reception on May 30. There should be another coming up in June or July. We've been trying to rotate the artwork we're displaying, and new members seem to be joining by the minute! There's so much great local art to see. The gallery is open Thursday through Sunday (depending on artist staffing) 4pm-10pm (I believe) Thursday-Saturday and 2pm-6pm on Sunday. So much of the artwork is VERY reasonably priced. There are also lots of prints from original artwork for sale. The gallery is on the same side of the street as Derby Town Hall. Stop by and check us out!

Valley Arts Gallery in Derby, CT!

A new gallery has just opened in Derby, CT on 37 Elizabeth St. See some of my work as well as many fabulous pieces by some very talented artists! We are all members of the Valley Arts Council and are really trying to get the word out about this great new space. We've already been on WTNH Channel 8, and you should be seeing us on a show through Comcast Cable TV. Check us out!

Make Your Own Books!

Here's a fun project you can do just in time for the Chinese New Year coming up this week (using some recycled items, of course). You can modify this project to your own style, though: books are great for any occasion! Yes, I know today is in fact Mardi Gras, and on my web site, you can find lots of fun party masks. You probably won't see me making those unless HGTV finally decides to show my mask making segment on That's Clever. Until then, I'll keep on crafting!

Recycle That Sweatshirt!

I found this very interesting article on the BBC web site: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6248796.stm
It talks about two women from England who have been taking discarded but perfectly usable clothes and transforming them into new garments. The figures given for the amount of textile waste each year is only for the UK. I cannot imagine how much it is in the US. Just because it may be cheaper to replace something used with something brand new (be it clothes, TVs, cell phones, etc.!) doesn't mean you should. Sure, not everyone can play fashion designer and make a sensational new outfit out of last year's styles, but seriously, more people should think before they toss. Try giving your unwanted things to a charity or trade with a friend!