Friday, November 28, 2014

It's a knockout!

 In boxing terminology, the letters TKO mean "technical knockout", but around Portland "TKO" stands for a knockout of another kind…
Tamara King is a fiber artist whose stunning color and fabric combinations knock me out every time I see them. She's been a part of Camp Cactus sales for many years, and has quite a following of fans.
A long-time quilter, she lets her fabulous color sense guide her in sewing everything from tote bags to backpacks to accessories. This year she's making tea towels and potholders in happy colors that are destined to brighten many a Portland kitchen this winter.
Since her meticulous attention to detail requires a ridiculous amount of work, her items will be in short supply, and each piece is a one-of-a-kind work of art, destined to become a cherished heirloom.

Tamara King Originals…a total knockout!
They can be found exclusively at the Camp Cactus Holiday Sale next weekend.
Click here for all the details: Camp Cactus Holiday Sale.


Monday, November 24, 2014

The very busy hands of Rachael Ramos!

Rachael Ramos is a serial crafter. She seems to always be doing something fun and creative with her hands. We never know what she's going to bring to Camp Cactus, but it's always unique and beautiful!
Here are some examples of her work from past sales:

And here's a little bit about Rachael in her own words:
I learned to make things and be thrifty from my grandma. It was her most valuable gift to me.
My handmade items are mostly crocheted, sewn or knitted, but there isn't a craft out there that I don't like, so you never know what I will do. Most of my materials are partial skeins of yarn and vintage fabrics and beads, found at thrift stores, yard and estate sales - so items are often one of a kind because of the limited materials.
~
I hope you can come and shop locally this year
 and meet all our talented artisans!
Click here for all the details: Camp Cactus 2014 Holiday Sale

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Holiday Sale 2014


I'm happy to announce that in less than two weeks, 
Camp Cactus Studio will again be magically transformed into a warm and cozy gallery and boutique, featuring the art and craft of 24 fantastically gifted local artists and craftspeople.
As always, we'll be donating a portion of all sales to the Oregon Food Bank.


Please join us on Friday Evening, December 5th from 6:00 to 9:00 pm for our preview evening, and a chance to meet many of the artists, sip wine, nibble delicious goodies, and shop for locally made treasures.

Hours:
Friday, December 5th  6:00 - 9:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday
December 6th & 7th  10:00 am-6:00 pm

We're located on NE Brazee, between 44th and 45th Avenues in Portland's Hollywood District.

Stop by and have a cup of hot cider 
and share some holiday cheer.
Stay tuned... in the days to come I'll be sharing sneak peeks 
of what our artists are working on to bring to the show!


Thursday, October 30, 2014

upcoming classes in the studio


Dia de los Muertos Art

(photo borrowed from here)


In Mexico on November 1st and 2nd, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), is a traditional holiday dedicated to the memory of departed loved ones. It is a day to celebrate and remember them with joy and thanks, rather than sorrow.
(photo borrowed from here)

Altars are made in honor of friends and family members (even beloved pets!) and are displayed with bright colors, mementos, favorite snacks and decorations in a place of honor in the home.
We'll learn a little about this custom (in a non-scary way) and build our own altars for people or pets who were dear to us.
Bring a photo or memento to use in your project.

Saturday, November 1          1 - 3 pm          cost: $25
Ages 6-up  •  class size is limited  •  Preregistration required

Sorry, this class is cancelled.


Boot Stuffers
Take care of your boots! Don't you hate how they flop over and get creased in your closet? Make these stylish and aromatic stuffers to keep your boots crease-free, smelling fresh and ready for the cold weather.  Bring your boots for a custom fit.
All stuffing and trim materials included for one pair.  Materials for additional pairs are available for $5.
Fabric yardage requirements will be sent upon registration.

Saturday, November 8th   7-9 pm                  cost: $35     
Ages 13 - Adult   •   Class size is limited
Sorry, this class is cancelled. 


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Fabulous Fairy Footwear
Make your very own designer Fairy or Elf shoes. We'll draft a custom-sized pattern and sew and embellish with threads and buttons and ribbons and magic. No prior sewing experience necessary. All materials provided.

Monday afternoon, November 10th   1:30-4:30 pm       $30   
Ages 6 and up  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required


number of students
 
 

Saturday, October 18, 2014

come doodle with us!

Did you know that doodling enhances your ability to listen and absorb subject matter?
It's also tons of fun! 
Come join me tonight for the third edition of
 Saturday Night Doodlefest.
We'll supply all the materials, and teach you fun ways to develop a doodling style that your co-workers, classmates and friends will envy. Pop in for some wine, sparkling cider and a big burst of creativity!

Saturday, October 18th  •  7-9 pm    cost:  $30
Adults

Sorry, this class is now closed

Monday, September 22, 2014

2014 fall class schedule

 

Beginning Drawing
Have you always wanted to learn how to draw, but just don't know where to start?
Convinced you could never learn?
Or are your drawing skills a bit rusty, and you need to refresh the fundamentals?
Then this is the course for you!
We'll learn the basic principals of drawing, including composition, shading, contour and line, with
hands-on exploration of materials and techniques.
What are you waiting for? Start drawing!

Bring an 11" x 14" spiral-bound sketch pad, kneaded rubber eraser, and 2H, HB, 2B and 4B pencils to first class.
Sorry, this class is closed.
(Six sessions)
Wednesdays,  Oct. 8- Nov. 12    7-9pm    cost: $125
Ages 14-adult  • Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required
*      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *
Beginning Sewing
Unravel the mysteries of the sewing machine and how to use this fantastic power tool!
In this 2-session, 5 hour course, learn the very basics of how the machine works, and the fundamentals of sewing. We'll make a patchwork pillow to take home. Materials list will be provided upon registration.
Sorry, this class is closed.
Saturday, October 11th   10am-noon
and
Sunday, October 12th  noon-3    cost: $60
Ages 8-up  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required



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

Saturday Night Doodlefest
Join us for the first in a series dedicated to jumpstarting your creative spirit.
In these workshops, artists and non-artists alike will learn how doodling and noodling around not only helps stimulate the creative juices, but how it has also been found to help us improve our concentration, listening and recall skills.  We'll provide all the materials you'll need, but feel free to bring your favorite doodle pen or pencil and sketchbook. No drawing experience required.
We'll have sparkling cider, wine and goodies to nibble, tunes and fun conversation.
All materials provided, just bring your creative self!

Saturday, October 18th           7 - 9 pm          cost: $30
Adult  •  class size is limited  •  Preregistration required

Sorry, this class is closed.
*      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *
Kid's Drawing Studio
An open studio where kids ages 5 and up can come and draw to their heart's content in a supportive, non-critical environment.
Artists are free to choose from a variety of materials such as charcoal, graphite, ink, crayon, pastels, markers and colored pencils; and draw from imagination or various visual sources such as photographs and still life. All materials provided.

Friday, October 24th  1-3 pm         cost: $25 
Sorry, the October 24th class is closed.
or
Monday, November 10th  10am-noon       cost: $25
Ages 5 and up  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required


number of students attending:
choose a class date

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Sew a Sock Snake!
In this fibre arts workshop, we'll sew some crazy, colorful snakes from mis-matched socks. Teaches basic hand sewing skills.
All materials provided.

Thursday, October 30th     10am-noon         cost: $25
Ages 5-up • Class size is limited • Preregistration required


Sorry, this class is closed.
*      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *



Mummy Workshop
Another fun Halloween project, these poseable mummies can really liven up your spooky decorating!
All materials provided.

Thursday, October 30th     1:30-3:30pm         cost: $25
Ages 5-up • Class size is limited • Preregistration required

Sorry, this class is closed.
*      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *      *

(photo borrowed from here)

Dia de los Muertos Art
In Mexico on November 1st and 2nd, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), is a traditional holiday dedicated to the memory of departed loved ones. It is a day to celebrate and remember them with joy and thanks, rather than sorrow.
Altars are made in honor of friends and family members (even beloved pets!) and are displayed with bright colors, mementos, favorite snacks and decorations in a place of honor in the home.
We'll learn a little about this custom (in a non-scary way) and build our own altars for people or pets who were dear to us.
Bring a photo or memento to use in your project.

Saturday, November 1          1 - 3 pm          cost: $25
Ages 6-up  •  class size is limited  •  Preregistration required
Sorry, this class is closed.


Boot Stuffers
Take care of your boots! Don't you hate how they flop over and get creased in your closet? Make these stylish and aromatic stuffers to keep your boots crease-free, smelling fresh and ready for the cold weather.  Bring your boots for a custom fit.
All stuffing and trim materials included for one pair.  Materials for additional pairs are available for $5.
Fabric yardage requirements will be sent upon registration.

Saturday, November 8th   7-9 pm                  cost: $35     
Ages 13 - Adult   •   Class size is limited
Registration required by Saturday, November 1st

Sorry, this class is closed.

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


Fabulous Fairy Footwear
Make your very own designer Fairy or Elf shoes. We'll draft a custom-sized pattern and sew and embellish with threads and buttons and ribbons and magic. No prior sewing experience necessary. All materials provided.

Monday afternoon, November 10th   1:30-4:30 pm       $30   
Ages 6 and up  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required


number of students

Saturday, September 20, 2014

fall classes are starting soon!


Today the temperature is hovering around 90º and the sky is blindingly blue. It's hard to think that summer is almost gone and autumn is well on its way!

Autumn is, of course, the traditional time to return to classes…and I'm cooking up some new ones to add a spark of creativity to brighten up those dark days that are soon to come.

By Monday, I'll have the new class schedule up. Just in time for the change of seasons. Stay tuned!

Thursday, August 21, 2014

freewheeling fun with paint

Today's Abstract Expressionist class was loads of fun! I was thoroughly impressed with the level of devotion and creativity the students brought.

Everyone started out painting a tee shirt or canvas:

(this one looks like a nebula, I think)

Then we moved on to a few group canvases,
where we built up layers and layers of paint 
until we got here...
A masterpiece!

Space is still available for tomorrow's Environmental Art class,
the last class of the summer. Click on the "Summer Classes" link in the sidebar to register!

Saturday, August 16, 2014

last chance to sign up for classes

The last two classes of the summer session are coming up this Wednesday and Thursday.
Sign up now, while there are still a few spaces available! Scroll down to sign up…

Also, If you missed the Third Annual Hollywood Fairy House Tour, you can now purchase and download the map and directions in the Camp Cactus Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/listing/199827175/map-of-fairy-houses-hollywood?ref=shop_home_feat_3 
The map will only be available for a limited time.


(photo of Jackson Pollock courtesy Life magazine)
Painting Abstract Expressionism:
Jackson Pollock
Modern artist Jackson Pollock was a pioneer in the form of art known as abstract expressionism, and was known for his "drip and splash" style of painting. This style of action painting is uniquely suited to stirring up fun and creativity. In this class, we'll paint a t-shirt or canvas in the Pollock style (and make a heck of a happy mess, too!)
All materials and t-shirt or canvas included.
Come prepared to get messy.

Thursday, August 21st     1 - 3 pm                       cost: $30
Ages 5- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required by Thursday, Aug 14
(registration after August 14th may not guarantee tee shirt availability)


Number of students attending
 
 
(photo borrowed from this site)
Making Environmental Art: 
Andy Goldsworthy
Andy Goldsworthy is a contemporary British sculptor, artist and photographer who utilizes natural materials from the landscape to create beautiful but short-lived works of art. In this workshop, we'll create our own art from materials we'll gather on site, then photograph the finished products and take home a print to keep.

Friday, August 22nd    1 - 3 pm                       cost: $25
Ages 6- up  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required



Number of students attending
 
 

Friday, August 15, 2014

Build your own Fairy Dream House!

We'll be working some magic in the studio this afternoon. Come and join us…we have a few spaces available, still!

Fantastical Fairy Architecture
Along with our imagination, we'll use natural, recycled and found materials to design and build tiny dwellings for those magical beings who live all around us. Feel free to bring materials from your own garden, such as pinecones, acorns, pebbles and seed pods.
We'll provide ample building materials for everyone.
This 3-hour class is open to everyone ages 7-100!

Friday, August 15th     1 - 4 pm                       cost: $35
Ages 7- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required

This class is now closed

Sunday, August 10, 2014

fairy house walking tour

It's almost time for the third annual Hollywood Fairy House Tour! Join us this Thursday, August 14th, from 1-3 in the afternoon. We'll meet at Camp Cactus Studio and take a guided tour around the neighborhood to see a number of magical structures built by the local Fairies…
These are maps from years past...I'm getting ready to draw this year's map right after I finish this post.
Here's a photo of a house on last year's tour.
I hope you can join us for this very special and magical event.
 If we're lucky, we may even see a Fairy or two!

Thursday, August 14th   1-3pm                    $25
All ages. Please note: Children under 6 are free, but must be accompanied by a paying adult.

This class is now closed

Click here for a map to Camp Cactus Studio.

Monday, August 4, 2014

aboriginal art class this friday

(photo courtesy of this site)
Coming up this Friday, we'll be incorporating our own dreams, symbols and spirit animals on canvas in the style of Australia's native people. This class is open to ages 6 - adult, and no previous painting experience required!
(photo borrowed from this site)
Painting Aboriginal Art: 
Symbols and Stories
Learn about dreamtime and walkabouts, and how the native aboriginal people of Australia use symbols to tell the story of the world around them. We'll paint our own dream images and stories on canvas using aboriginal art techniques.
Canvas and paint provided.

Friday, August 8th     1 - 4 pm                       cost: $35
Ages 6- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required

This class is now closed

Saturday, August 2, 2014

fun in the studio

Yesterday a group of enthusiastic young craftspeople joined us in the studio to make handmade paper.
We got a little wet and very creative with all the different colors of pulp, but since the temperature was in the 90s, no one minded being a little damp!
The sun helped the paper dry quickly. 
We made lots of pulp from brown grocery bags. 
Stay tuned for more classes this August. Coming up next Friday, August 8th: Aboriginal Art painting class. 1-4 pm. For a complete list, and to register, click on Summer Classes in the sidebar to the right!

Thursday, July 17, 2014

sign up now for summer classes!

August classes are coming up very soon…this summer I'll be offering some exciting new painting classes, as well as some old favorites. And I'll be joined again by my fantastic teaching assistant, Liz.
Class sizes are limited, so early registration will ensure you a spot.

Handmade Paper Workshop
Explore the ancient art of making paper. We'll make cool papers using recycled fibers, and embellish them with dried flowers, leaves and other natural materials.
Prepare to get a little wet…it's a messy process, but perfect for a hot summer afternoon!
All material provided.

Friday, August 1st     2 - 4 pm                       cost: $25
Ages 5-adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required
This class is now closed

(photo borrowed from this site)
Painting Aboriginal Art: 
Symbols and Stories
Learn about dreamtime and walkabouts, and how the native aboriginal people of Australia use symbols to tell the story of the world around them. We'll paint our own dream images and stories on canvas using aboriginal art techniques.
Canvas and paint provided.

Friday, August 8th     1 - 4 pm                       cost: $35
Ages 6- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required


This class is now closed

Third Annual Hollywood Fairy House Tour
Did you know the Hollywood district has become a hotbed of Fairy homebuilding? It's true!
Tiny Fairy dwellings are popping up all over the neighborhood these days, and we'll take you on a guided tour, pointing out some of the most beautiful and secret architecture you've ever seen!
You'll get a cool map on that marks the locations of these fantastical homes so you can come back for a visit with your friends.

We'll start out at Camp Cactus Studio, and walk around the neighborhood, ending up back at Camp Cactus for a snack.

The tour is open to ages 6 and up, but you must be able to walk a fair distance (about a mile in all).
Children under 6 are free with an accompanying (paying) adult.

Thursday, August 14th  10am-noon                      cost: $25
Ages 6- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required
This class is now closed


Fantastical Fairy Architecture
Along with our imagination, we'll use natural, recycled and found materials to design and build tiny dwellings for those magical beings who live all around us. Feel free to bring materials from your own garden, such as pinecones, acorns, pebbles and seed pods.
We'll provide ample building materials for everyone.
This 3-hour class is open to everyone ages 7-100!

Friday, August 15th     1 - 4 pm                       cost: $35
Ages 7- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required


This class is now closed
(photo of Jackson Pollock courtesy Life magazine)
Painting Abstract Expressionism:
Jackson Pollock
Modern artist Jackson Pollock was a pioneer in the form of art known as abstract expressionism, and was known for his "drip and splash" style of painting. This style of action painting is uniquely suited to stirring up fun and creativity. In this class, we'll paint a t-shirt in the Pollock style (and make a heck of a happy mess, too!)
All materials and t-shirt included.
Come prepared to get messy.

Thursday, August 21st     1 - 3 pm                       cost: $30
Ages 5- adult  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required by Thursday, Aug 14
(registration after August 14th may not guarantee tee shirt availability)


Number of students attending
(photo borrowed from this site)
Making Environmental Art: 
Andy Goldsworthy
Andy Goldsworthy is a contemporary British sculptor, artist and photographer who utilizes natural materials from the landscape to create beautiful but short-lived works of art. In this workshop, we'll create our own art from materials we'll gather on site, then photograph the finished products and take home a print to keep.

Friday, August 22nd    1 - 3 pm                       cost: $25
Ages 6- up  •  Class size is limited  •  Preregistration required


Number of students attending