The Tea Children

Art Blast Opening

2012-02-24T23:33:00.000+11:00

Tonight was the opening for the Next On Now Art Blast at View Point Handmade Gallery to kick off this weekends program of art around Bendigo. I have been working on the blog for Next On Now in collaboration with the artists, mentors and artistic directors which has been a busy and interesting journey. The blog is on display via a laptop and is surrounded by a little cluster of bits & pieces that can be found at my home where I do all my blogging to give it character on a personal level.

^ The wall display of little bits & pieces.

^ The whole set up with the Next On Now blog on the laptop.

The Artist ::

2012-02-23T23:57:00.002+11:00

The Artist has been receiving rave reviews and a lot of attention during the award season, and one can see why. Seeing the first screening at the cinema, (with the whole cinema to myself) I got to experience the pleasure of seeing this Black and White silent gem on the big screen.

Set in Hollywood 1927, silent film star George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) is loved by all for his acting, however he then begins to feel like a washed up movie star with the arrival of talking pictures. The new era of talking film is where Peppy Miller (Bérénice Bejo) gets her big break, becoming Hollywood’s sweetheart.

Throughout the film is bits of text stating the main lines of what each actor is saying, though you do need to work a lot of it out for yourself; watching their face and body expressions and the tone of the music.

Also starring John Goodman, Missi Pyle and James Cromwell and directed by Michel Hazanavicius this little B & W film will have you smitten. Even Uggie (the dog) was a delight to watch.

The Artist is now showing at select cinemas, check websites for screening sessions.

Wonderful Things

2012-02-20T20:36:00.000+11:00

Wonderful Things

March 12 - 13 April

El Gordo, Chancery Lane, Bendigo
Open :: 8am - 4.30pm weekdays

All new artworks; mixed media, craft & little textile creations.

Art Blast

2012-02-05T23:55:00.001+11:00

Local residents will enjoy the fruits of an exciting new arts initiative when a six month collaboration between twelve Central Victorian artists culminates in Bendigo’s CBD this February. Led by acclaimed arts group Punctum, Next on Now has provided local emerging artists a creative development program with support, resources and workshops together with professional mentoring by practicing artists. The results are an extraordinarily diverse collection of professional artistic works which explore themes of love, death, childhood, sex, identity and public / personal space.

Next On Now concludes with a weekend long arts festival, the Next on Now Art Blast from 24th to 26th February. The Art Blast will showcase seven artists with a range of works set in unique locations throughout central Bendigo. The contemporary work embraces a variety of medium including live performance, interactive sculpture, photography and street art.

Contemporary art enhances the vibrancy and richness of Central Victoria’s cultural landscape. Each year over 300 students graduate from arts courses conducted within the City of Greater Bendigo. There are, however, limited opportunities for audiences to discover and interact with new art forms devised by local artists. Next on Now brings local cultural partners, young and emerging artists and new audiences together to generate possibilities for future professionals and bring the city centre alive with art to be discovered.

The Art Blast features seven installations with works by artists Leonie Kelsall, Tom Pender, Kelly Robson, Christine Sayer, Katie Sfetkidis, Isobelle Sirianni, Amy Turton and Rick Whateley. You can meet the artists and learn more about their journey at the Next on Now Art Blast launch on Tuesday 7th February, 5-6:30pm at El Gordo Café, Chancery Lane, Bendigo.

The Art Blast opens on Friday 24th February from 6pm-8pm upstairs at Viewpoint Gallery, 13 View Point, Bendigo and runs through Saturday and Sunday. A weekend pass to the Art Blast costs $10 and provides you with a program containing locations map, cultural notes and admission to all installations and performances. Passes are on sale at the Capital Theatre Box Office at 50 View Street, Bendigo or telephone 03 5434 6100. For more information about Next on Now visit the artists’ blog at www.nextonnow.com. Don’t miss this great opportunity to enjoy contemporary art in the heart of Bendigo.

Enquiries to:
Krista Horbatiuk
Associate Producer, Punctum Inc
Tele: 0401 167 756
Email: krista@punctum.com.au

Hugo ::

2012-01-12T22:31:00.003+11:00

^ Image via hugomovie.com.

Hugo (Asa Butterfield) is a small boy who lives within the walls of a train station in Paris, winding and fixing the broken clocks. He also has a secret; the automaton which he and his father were trying to fix before the tragic fire that happened.

After many little thefts he is caught by Papa Georges (Ben Kingsley) and befriends his goddaughter, Isabelle (Chloë Grace Moretz). The mystery of the automaton, the connection with Hugo’s father and Isabelle’s godfather are soon sort after by the children.

However keeping low after the death of Hugo’s Uncle is hard with the Station Inspector (Sasha Baron Cohen) keeping an eye on any young children without parents.

Hugo blends 1930’s Paris with film history & magic, with adding 3D to the mix. The 3D effects were quiet stunning; due to being filmed with 3D cameras. The imagery and costuming were gorgeous. The film is based on the book The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick and by acclaimed director Martin Scorsese. It is a film to fall in love with. Also starring Christopher Lee and Jude Law & is produced by Johnny Depp.

Hugo (PG) is now screening across Australia in 2D & 3D, check local newspapers and websites for session times.

^ Image via hugomovie.com.

A little adventure!

2012-01-07T22:43:00.000+11:00

^ Art, Collections, Cake & Street Performers.

^ Flinders Street Station.

^ The Block Arcade, Wheels, Mosaic Floor & a Soy Hot Chocolate.

^ Sear working on a Skateboard Deck at the NGV Studio.

^ Artist's work on decks.

^ Half of a Skateboard collection that was also on show.

^ Cillian Murphy wore this suit in the film Sunshine {at ACMI}.

^ A rather large Kewpie I wish I had.

Adventures in Melbourne, exploring The Block Arcade, down-stars book stores & browsing art galleries such as the NGV Studio with the current Board exhibition & artist working. Lots of hot chocolates were drunk, macarons eaten & many inspiring ideas thought. Discovered the flash Hopetoun Tea Rooms, hoping one day to actually sit down for a tea & cake. Arrived home realising I spent a lot of time browsing & purchasing books, notebooks & magazines plus picking up street press all to do with films. I also had a fondness to toy & doll shops.

2012

2012-01-01T22:29:00.000+11:00

Had a quiet night in last night; drank some Monteith’s Crushed Apple Cider, saw shooting stars & watched as an owl landed close by. The first day of the New Year consisted of working all day at the Cinema with a lovely {and long} walk at the reservoir. I had collected some found objects but I believe I have lost half of them again.

Lots of adventures to be had this year; a trip to Melbourne, my caravan in the next couple of weeks & an exhibition in March at El Gordo. Plus my birthday {in only a few days} & so many lovely films coming out that I am rather excited about.

I hope to be more creative & blogging a bit more regular as well, I am also blogging for Punctum's Next On Now program over here.

Looking forward to the year to come!

^ A humorous sign I found while walking.

Sneak Peek ::

2011-12-19T22:47:00.000+11:00

^ Wonderful Things: Title of my upcoming exhibition at El Gordo in March 2012 (on the front of the visual diary that shall also be on display).

Made in Hollywood

2011-12-13T21:07:00.002+11:00

^ Ernest Bachrach (1899-1973)

Marilyn Monroe, RKO, 1952/2007

platinum print from the original negative

Image courtesy of John Kobal Foundation, London

Made in Hollywood is a new photographic exhibition showing at the Bendigo Art Gallery from the John Kobal Foundation and organized by the Santa Barbara Museum of Art in California.
From the 1920’s black and white imagery was the style of the photographers and most were taken on film sets. The female figures appeared like porcelain dolls, they were flawless. Many of the males were from vaudeville silent films and eventually “talkies”. Most of the men were also directors.

Charlie Chaplin and Jackie Coogan from The Kid was taken by an unknown photographer, a platinum print printed from the original negative in 1921. Situated next to this photograph is one of comedians Laurel and Hardy by independent photographer Lansing Brown in 1925.

Clarence Sinclair Bull was a photographer, whose name appeared on many images, shooting the likes of Greta Garbo in 1929 to Boris Karloff on the set of The Mask of Fu Manchu in the early 30’s and Grace Kelly during the 50’s.

Reading each description of the time gave an insight to what that era was like and the history of the performers; Vaudeville was the most popular theatrical genre of the time.

Other names included Elizabeth Taylor and Humphrey Bogart during the 40’s, Orson Welles (co-founder of the Mercury Theatre), James Dean and Marlon Brando. Also included is a colored nude of Marilyn Monroe by Tom Kelley in 1949, when she was 22 years old and was paid a $50 modeling fee, it was published in the first Playboy magazine.

All photographs were breath taking and magical, making everyone wanting to take a trip back in time.

Made in Hollywood is on show at the Bendigo Art Gallery until the 12th February 2012. For more information see bendigoartgallery.com.au.

le cinéma

2011-12-06T21:27:00.000+11:00

There are a fair few films coming out during the New Year which I cannot wait to see, there is a long list but amongst those these are the Top 3, though Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows comes in pretty close also ~

Hugo is based on the New York Times best-seller The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick. It is also in 3D as well as the 2D & is set to screen January 12th.

The Woman In Black staring Daniel Radcliff. It is originally an 1983 thriller fiction novel of the same name by Susan Hill, it has also been adapted into a stage show & a TV film.

ParaNorman is the new stop-motion creation from the creators of Coraline, set to screen here 20th September.

A night at The Butterfly Club.

2011-11-28T22:11:00.000+11:00

Last night I travelled down to The Butterfly Club to see Joe Black's last performance there. It was such an amazing night! I had never been to The Butterfly Club before; it was so quirky & so many little things to look at and explore. The Show Room was a little room at the front lined with Church pews that sat 3 people. I am so glad I made the trip down, was a performance not to be missed with sing-a-longs, hilarious covers & inappropriate gestures plus songs from both CD releases. I felt like I was in a scene from Midnight in Paris. It was lovely!

^ Joe Black & his ukulele.

^ A little section of the inside of The Butterfly Club.

Alice in Monsterland

2011-11-17T22:27:00.000+11:00

Alice in Monsterland is a new papercraft exhibition by Kara Rice & tonight was the opening at El Gordo. All works are for sale, however you receive a copy of the papercraft to make yourself instead, how cool is that idea? They also look interesting made, with the template framed next to it. Kara's exhibition was also featured on the Frankie website! Also on show in Salon Comedor is Sean Paul Taylor's We Only Come Out At Night exhibition of photography & graphic design.

^ The lovely Kara Rice with her work.

^ The Black Wall.

^ Opening night.

:: Alice in Monsterland ::

November 12th - 9th December

El Gordo, Chancery Lane

Bendigo

Gallery hours: Monday - Friday: 8am - 4.30pm.

Paste Up Party!

2011-11-12T23:47:00.000+11:00

El Gordo's Fiesta Day was today & part of it was the Paste Up Party; A2D mural winners pasting up their winning works. I also popped up a little paste up next to my other ones.

^ Left to Right: Rhayven Jane, Dale Harris & Kara Rice, my paste up and Reece Hendy.

^ Photographs by Maree Tonkin.

The Advertiser :: Bendigo Blogs

2011-11-12T22:51:00.001+11:00

The Bendigo Advertiser :: Saturday 12th November 2011

Words :: Lauren Mitchell

Photography :: Matt Kimpton
Bottle necklace :: Nena Perrill

This is an excerpt from The Advertiser's feature article in the MORE section of Saturdays' paper, also featured in the Bendigo Blogs feature is House of Humble & I Heart Bendigo. I was interviewed Thursday morning at El Gordo, I am very happy with how the article turned out.

Eleven

2011-11-12T22:06:00.000+11:00

Last night the end of year folio exhibition for Bendigo TAFE Visual Art students. I had my Marie Antoinette Artist Book on display that I created throughout the year in Print Making.

^ My book on display next to my friend Caitlin Dickman's hand-colored linocuts.

Mister Joe Black

2011-11-10T21:29:00.000+11:00

Internationally acclaimed Cabaret sensation Joe Black is heading down under in a matter of days to perform at Melbourne's The Butterfly Club for 6 nights. Before he jumps of the plane from London I got to have a little chat with him.

^ Joe Black © Scott Chalmers 2011.

Did you always know that you wanted to be on stage & making music?
No! I was painfully shy in school, couldn't even talk in front of a class! Though I was in school plays and things like that, it would be this massive build up for all of one line or something like that! But as I got older I started wanting to perform, after getting more into an alternative scene and group of friends. I was in a metal band once...but we're not allowed to talk about that, painful painful memories...!

What has inspired you throughout your career?
I've always been influenced by images and sounds. Not so much songs specifically...of course to a degree! But I try to create a vibe rather than a song; Art Deco I absolutely love! Highly influenced by 20's/30's Berlin Cabaret, as I'm sure most people can tell!

Your first trip to Australia is coming up in November with 6 nights of performances at the Butterfly Club with your Sex, Drugs & Vaudeville show, are you looking forward to it & what can the Australian audience expect?
I'm actually working on the setlist as I type this! I am SO excited but also so incredibly nervous. They can expect sing-a-longs, jaunty tunes and some incredibly dark moments among all the (hopefully) laughing.

Your new CD Vile Volumes for Villainous Children has just been released, how much work went into it & what was the production of it like?
We recorded it in a tiny studio out in the countryside, horses walking past the studio door...that kind of place! It was great, we only spent 2 days in the studio which is a very, very small amount compared to people that end up spending months and month on it. Though it's helpful that it was me who played all the instruments on it, with drums and percussion being done by Joe Marsh who engineered and recorded it all! We did piano first for all the tracks that used that, then layered on top of it all. I am so, so happy with it, it's dark, mischievous, funny and at some points actually quite sad...

If you could perform with anyone Dead or Alive who would it be?
TOM WAITS! That is all...

Joe Black

Sex, Drugs and Vaudeville

To check dates & purchase tickets click here.

ABC broadcast

2011-11-07T20:10:00.000+11:00

Tomorrow I shall be on The Morning Show with Fiona Parker at ABC Local Radio {Bendigo} with writer R.I Sutton talking about our writers events that are happening at El Gordo. So tune in to your radio from 10am tomorrow, to locate the frequencies check here.

an arty afternoon.

2011-11-05T17:27:00.000+11:00

I had a little arty day today, travelled into town to Bob Day at Bob Boutique. I browsed all the new wears and the exhibition that's on; Vintage In Love, new Blythe dolls were also in.

^ Bob Boutique.

I then travelled up to Hudson's Hub to check out the new necklaces by Nena Perrill, her work is gorgeous. I can't wait to get my new necklace of hers. She has also been kind enough to give me a couple of ornate frames to use for my art.

^ Nena Perrill.

I then went to the Kangaroo Flat Art space for the typewriting workshop, I typed up a little bit of ramblings that didn't make sense but was fun to use my typewriter after such a long time. I hope to have little more arty days in the future.

To The Horses.

2011-11-03T21:38:00.000+11:00

Bringing inspiration from the past into the present Lanie Lane’s debut album To The Horses is an upbeat treasure to fall in love with. Mixing her vintage vocals with jazz and rockabilly sounds, gives her a unique outfit.

Jungle Man is a track that stands out amongst the others with its different beat; a mixture between retro surf rock & the ambiance of 1930’s Tiki Bars.

Her single What Do I Do also has an unusual sound, with a strong bass, backing singers bringing in more form & a touch of Amy Winehouse.

If you want to take a trip to the early ‘50s, dress like a jazz cat with a Bettie Page fringe then To The Horses is for you.

To The Horses is out now through Ivy League Records, it is also available via iTunes and on Vinyl.

Fiesta Day!

2011-11-01T14:54:00.000+11:00

I am very excited about El Gordo's Fiesta Day on Saturday 12th November. I shall be doing a talk about blogging in the Salon Comedor, along with another writer Terry Jaensch. Below is the flyer from El Gordo with everything that is happening on Fiesta Day, more information can be found on each event page on Facebook here: Writers Talk: Terry Jaensch & Kelly Robson, Paste Up Party - A2D Mural Prize & Exhibitions: 'Alice In Monsterland' & 'We Only Come Out At Night'.

The Adventure Begins...

2011-10-29T22:44:00.000+11:00

Today I ventured to my mum's friends place who lives around the corner to check out a caravan that I could do up and live in. It does need a lot of work done to it but it's a challenge and a great project to work on. And it is perfect size and the layout inside is very cute. I have lots of ideas already. I want to document it all, so there is now a new page on my blog; My Caravan Adventure where it will all be achieved as I blog.

Emilie Autumn

2011-10-28T14:05:00.000+11:00

Emilie Autumn is touring next month as part of the Harvest Festival {which looks amazing, wish I could get to it}, she is also doing a one off sideshow in Melbourne at The Gershwin Room. The performance is 18+ with tickets on sale now.

Show Time!

2011-10-21T23:59:00.002+11:00

Tonight I ventured to the Bendigo Agricultural Show with my mum and younger sister, love the carnival atmosphere. I also this year decided to enter something into their Arts & Crafts prize events, there was heaps to choose from but I choose to create a decorated cushion. I am very happy as it came Third & I got a little certificate.

I had more fun looking at everything than going on the rides my sister got me on, I wanted to get off them. I also went on the Alice in Wonderland Teacup Ride!

^ My little decorated cushion.

^ On display with the entries for 1st & 2nd.

Paper Trees

2011-10-19T18:14:00.001+11:00

More of my paste up's went up today in Chancery Lane; in front of El Gordo is my Story Tree and further down on the other paste up wall, I pasted some Beatrix Potter pages which I thought would be interesting. Mum also pasted up an old fashioned mixed media artwork while there.

^ Story Tree © Kelly Robson.

Cappucino

2011-10-14T22:17:00.000+11:00

While at The Forest Flaw's opening last night I was able to put up a paste up for El Gordo for the Chancery Lane Mural Project, I will need to go back and see how she looks now that glue will have dried. I hope to do some more or add to it over the next week. I love Street Art so I am so happy to be doing some myself now.

^ Photography © Megan Spencer.

^ Cappucino.

if you go down to the woods today

2011-10-13T22:11:00.001+11:00

The Forest Flaw's opening at El Gordo was tonight & it was lovely to meet the creator of the gorgeous creatures Robyn Helbard. They are all hand-stitched, & stuffed with hypo-allergenic pure wool. During the week I had purchased Mr. Toad, I just had to have him! If you get a chance head to El Gordo for some yummy food & coffee while this exhibition is on.

^ Mr. Toad.

"I began sewing teatOLWS and FocKS when inspiration hit at the start of this year. Since then, more animals have crept into my menagerie, and even the forest dwellers in the form of Woods Men and Costume Creatures. There are so many more lurking in the depths of the forest, behind the creaky oaks and on the grassy knolls. I will hopefully sew them all in time!" - Robyn Helbard via here.

El Gordo Cafe & Art Space

Chancery Lane, Bendigo

Exhibition dates: October 8 - November 11
Viewing hours: Mon - Fri, 8am - 4.30

(& Sat Oct 8 9am - 2pm)

You can find The Forest Flaw hiding here;

Facebook

Made It

Blogspot

:: enid ::

2011-10-09T00:55:00.000+11:00

Yesterday at El Gordo was the Enid Blyton Charity Book Sale & book reading by the lovely Charlotte Spencer; she read an excerpt from The Magic Faraway Tree. It blended well with the new exhibition that El Gordo is showing; The Forest Flaw by Robyn Helbard {handmade creatures from the forest floor}. They are all gorgeous. I also loved the stall selling only Enid Blyton books, which was run by the Y’s Men's Service Club of Bendigo Charity Fund, which all proceeds went to. I purchased Hurrah for the Circus. It was such a lovely day!

^ Charlotte Spencer reading in the Salon Comedor.

^ One of the three walls with Robyn's creations.

^ Chancery Lane.

Espirt De Corpse - A Zombie Exhibition

2011-10-05T17:00:00.000+11:00

"Friday the 4th of November will be the opening of our Zombie/Vampire themed show "Espirt De Corpse". Featuring the Fascinations of Kitty Bob Robertson, the terrifying critters of Luna Soo and the dastardly drawings of Charlotte Tizzard." - via here.

^ Artwork by Charlotte Tizzard ©

Snapshots: royal melbourne show

2011-10-01T20:27:00.002+10:00

Yesterday I went to the Royal Melbourne Show with my younger sister. I haven't been in years so it was fun to head down there, I love anything that is remotely carnival-esque. Below are some photographs I took:

^ Greg Mann Jewellery, I love his work.

^ The lovely lady behind Jubly-Umph. I bought a cute kitty brooch.

^ Miss Gypsy Whitemoon's Wagon.

^ Cute owl showbags, I love mine!

^ The only fairy floss stand I could find that sold it freshly made on a stick.

^ The Power Surge, only ride I went on & never again.

Logo creation.

2011-09-27T12:58:00.000+10:00

I helped out my friend over at Rhayven Jane Art with a little logo creation for her work. Here is the end result:

Introducing Scream Queen Miss Nic

2011-09-25T12:34:00.000+10:00

Miss Nic © Lights Camera Scream

Miss Nic is a Burlesque/Gorelesque Performer/model from Melbourne Australia.

I did a little interview with her just recently, as she had performed in Bendigo.

What inspired you to get into the Burlesque scene?

It happened by accident. I'd always been fascinated by old school striptease. I essentially started off as a gogo dancer, then craved creative freedom and the rest is history!

What was your first performance & how did you feel afterwards?

My first performance was a heavily choreographed fan dance to a terrible bit of music- I felt great at the time

But these days I'm not as controlled, I enjoy gauging the audience.

List the Top 3 things you love about what you do:

~ Being able to command the audience.

~ Feeling beautiful on stage.

~ And having fun!

Touring with your Gorelesque show what keeps you going when on the road?

Well this year is the first tour of the "Gorelesque brand" but more than likely it'd be hubby x.

Dead or Alive who would you love to perform with?

Hmm that's a hard one.. Mm maybe my hero Zorita. She was dark and beautifully twisted xx.

If you would like to see what Miss Nic is up to or to find out more about Gorelesque's Tour head over to her site or Facebook page.

Hanging by a Thread Opening.

2011-09-24T21:16:00.000+10:00

Hanging by a Thread opened today in the Conservatory, Bendigo by Mayor of City of Greater Bendigo Rod Fyffe. I was unable to attend as I was working but mum did & said it went really well which I am glad of. I created 3 little ghostly dolls titled 3 Wishes. I used clay, ribbon, fabric & materials, embellishments, charms, thread, buttons, paint, wool & spray paint. They are suspended from the roof and hang down amongst the plants & other creations. It was great to try something different.

^ 3 Wishes, photograph by Jane Maxfield.

^ The Conservatory before everyone arrived, photograph by Jane Maxfield.

^ 3 Wishes.

Exhibition Dates :: 24th September - 14th October 2011

Open daily between 11am - 4pm

Bendigo Conservatory, Conservatory Gardens {near Bull Street}

Pall Mall, Rosalind Park, Bendigo

52 Challenge :: Week 24

2011-09-24T20:48:00.001+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 24 :: Domino Brooch
September 4th - 24th September 2011

Made a quick Domino brooch from these nice sized & colored Dominoes my mum had found at an Op Shop.

Set-up

2011-09-20T18:22:00.000+10:00

^ My dolls before the hanging.

Today was the set-up of Hanging by a Thread which opens this Saturday. I can't wait to see what it all looks like when it is all put together.

Pop Up Exhibition

2011-09-17T21:33:00.000+10:00

Hanging by a Thread

2011-09-16T00:59:00.000+10:00

Hanging by a Thread is an exhibition showcasing the diverse talent of local textile artists. The artworks will be suspended within the Bendigo Conservatory to create a beautiful and colourful display of fibre, fabrics and twine.

A collaboration by independent artists, Lella Cariddi, Dorothy Houlden, Jane Maxfield, Kelly Robson and Pat Scholz, members of the Bendigo Branch of the Embroiderers Guild Victoria and the Karen Weavers Group.

Official Opening :: Saturday 24th September 11am - 12pm.

Exhibition Dates :: 24th September - 14th October 2011

Open daily between 11am - 4pm

Bendigo Conservatory, Conservatory Gardens {near Bull Street}

Pall Mall, Rosalind Park, Bendigo

I shall be having new works on display at this exhibition. I am looking forward to see how it all looks when put together.

The Quircus

2011-09-16T00:35:00.000+10:00

"El Gordo is very proud to present 'The Quircus', a series of works by talented Bendigo digital illustrators Dale Harris & Leah Hartley.

The show explores the grandeur and demise of the golden age of circus culture. The fantastic menagerie that is 'The Quircus' brims with retro naivety echoing childhood memories.

The works are printed on archival quality Albrecht Durer watercolour stocks using pigment (UV) ink." - via here.

Exhibition dates :: Saturday September 10 - Friday October 8.

Open :: Monday-Friday, 8am - 4.30pm.

I popped by yesterday to El Gordo as I couldn't make the opening and it is a great exhibition, be sure if you are in town head down to Chancery Lane to check it out. I love all things circus related.

Ground Level

2011-09-09T19:14:00.000+10:00

:: Ground Level: Chancery Lane Mural Project ::

"The progressive mural is called 'Ground Level'. It will 'grow' over coming months along the walls of Chancery Lane with the help of Latrobe Uni visual arts students, Dr. Alyx MacFadyen, Bendigo Council's Maree Tonkin & El Gordo!" - via here.

If you take a trip down Chancery Lane you will see the walls coming alive with Paste Ups from lots of creative people as well as a new work by me. I am very excited to be apart of this project, I went down the laneway this morning to meet Maree Tonkin to just talk about the area and what's happening with it. I had my glue & paste up ready to go. I chose a spot & up it went. You can see the progress over here.

^ My paste up, created from fabric, playing cards, a book page plus paper doilies & ink.

^ Part of the mural in Chancery Lane.

52 Challenge :: Week 23

2011-09-04T15:52:00.001+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 23 :: Scissor Brooch
August 28th - 4th September 2011

Made from layers of fabric and a printed stamp size image of a pair of scissors. The black materical also has some frayed edges to give it some effect. It has been awhile since I made a brooch just using fabrics. I hope to create some more.

Kim Boekbinder's Impossible Tour.

2011-08-31T20:54:00.005+10:00

Kim Boekbinder is doing the impossible, pre-selling her tour in the U.S.A via funding through Kickstarter. I chatted to her awhile ago and it was great to catch up again.

^ The lovely Kim Boekbinder.

Why the idea of Pre-selling your concert?
There was this vague notion banging about in my head for a while but it wasn't until after a particularly poorly attended show in Portland, OR that it all came together. I knew there had to be a way to get people to come out and see me and just showing up to do a concert was not enough. Pre-selling a show in NYC worked so well I'm now doing this whole tour. I just can't afford to tour and lose money, pre-selling takes care of the expenses so I can focus on the art.

If successful would you tour like this more often, and bring it back to Australia?
For sure!! I'll be spending lots of time in Melbourne, Australia. Actually, I'm about to announce a Melbourne show in late September. To tour to other cities I'll try this pre-sold tour idea, because your country is so very very big.

You use Kickstarter reguarly as does Molly Crabapple and you did recently with Amanda Palmer, what do you like about using it?
It lets me make art. Plain and simple. There is no way I could afford to make records without pre-selling them through Kickstarter first. It is a wonderful way to get art funded.

:: Kim Boekbinder Redefines The Rock Tour ::

Iconoclastic New York musician, Kim Boekbinder, has set the internet abuzz with her passionate rant about the state of the music industry and how she’s decided to circumvent the broken system by using her vibrant social media presence to pre-sell her shows BEFORE they are even booked. Kim’s first test run of the idea was launched on Kickstarter and she got her funding for a show in New York City in under 24 hours. Now she’s doing a 10 date US tour: http://kck.st/pIcXeH.

Ms. Boekbinder’s “Impossible Tour” idea has been featured on CCN Money, BBC Radio’s World Service, and BoingBoing. http://www.boingboing.net/2011/06/14/crowdfunding-the-tou.html#comments. The attention generated from the story has her email inbox flooded with thank you messages from fans, musicians, and venues; as well as offers from internet startups trying to address the very issues that she is dealing with.

Kim Boekbinder is The Impossible Girl; a performer, composer, musician, and visual artist who defies genre. She has travelled the world, stealing hearts and changing paradigms with her indelible live performance and her excitingly original and unforgettable music. http://www.kimboekbinder.com/about/ - from kimboekbinder.com

:: The Impossible Tour dates on Kickstarter: ::

OCTOBER 13th – San Diego, CA
OCTOBER 14th – Los Angeles, CA

OCTOBER 15th – San Francisco, CA

OCTOBER 21st – Seattle, WA

OCTOBER 22nd – Portland, OR

OCTOBER 23rd – Minneapolis, MN

OCTOBER 27th – New Orleans, LA

NOVEMBER 4th – Boston, MA

NOVEMBER 5th – Hartford, CT

NOVEMBER 12th – New York, NY

Stamp & Stitch

2011-08-30T23:48:00.000+10:00

Stamp & Stitch; Creative Textile projects for the Primary classroom finally came around today, first meeting together {myself, Margot Feast of the Bendigo Art Gallery, whom I was doing the workshop with & 8 lovely Primary School Art Teachers} to check out The White Wedding Dress to get inspired.

We then headed over to Gallery 121 to workshop, this included creating rubber stamps and printing them onto calico, as well as monotypes & lace prints. This was then used to create covers of a concertina book. Bits of the printed calico were then used to create arty brooches after a delicious lunch at the Bendigo Art Gallery Cafe'. The brooches were also created with felt, buttons, beads, glittery thread & other bits and pieces.

Throughout the day we talked about other ideas, how they can go further and how to incorporate these into the class room, it was great to get an in look into the primary school art world. Though not creating anything myself, it was great to just step back from art & take it in {as it was my first time taking a workshop & Margot was a great help}. I did however pick up some great ideas & was very inspired by what everyone had to say & what they created.

52 Challenge :: Week 22.

2011-08-27T13:19:00.000+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 22 :: Upon a Time Brooch

July 25th - 27th August 2011

Still somewhat behind with doing these brooches weekly {though I have not done the dates weekly, as I would get confused}. This is a fairy tale inspired brooch using gold paint, materials & other bits and pieces such as text from old children's books that I bought from the op-shop to use in mixed media artworks.

artsy friday.

2011-08-26T20:24:00.000+10:00

Today was such a lovely day in Bendigo, I parked my car quite a far way from where I wanted to go {it was nice to walk, plus I didn't have to pay large amounts of parking fees}. I picked up My Cool Caravan {from Organize My; a lovely stationary-esque shop in Bath Lane}, which has inspired me so much at the moment, though I already had the idea of doing a caravan up or having a tiny house in the back paddock, the photographs of every caravan just made me want to do this even more.

I also finally got the time to check out the Ground Level; Chancery Lane mural project with paste ups, I am hoping to be apart of this, just need to make a few meetings with a few people first, but how exciting, I love street art! While in the laneway I popped into El Gordo & saw the latest exhibition Pretty/Ugly by Rick Whateley which was quite interesting. The show is on until September 9th.

^ One of the paste ups in Chancery Lane, and one of my favorites.

bunny, kitty & antelope.

2011-08-22T23:10:00.002+10:00

Yesterday I travelled to Melbourne to meet up with my online & now close friends Ash & girlfriend Antonia, I had known Ash for almost 3 years now {met online after I travelled to Sydney when I designed The Birthday Massacre's Australian Tour Tee}. They were both over from Perth; which I hope to save and visit soon.

We went to Lentil as Anything at Abbotsford Convent, which was a first for me, so busy and lively, we also had so many macaroons, looked at laneway street art and visited The Art of the Brick at Federation Square.

I am so happy to have finally met them & I miss them already.

♥ ♥ ♥

Whatcha Mean, What's a Zine?

2011-08-15T23:23:00.000+10:00

:: Whatcha Mean, What's a Zine?{it's pronouced Zeen!}...a Collection ::

This is a display of a collection of zines that I have collected over the past few years from local and national zine writers from Brisbane and Melbourne to name a few. There is also zines for sale from Luke {YOU} & Sticky Institute, myself and my Mum. Plus some other bits & pieces on display. You are also able to create your own envelope zine & letter Et cetera.The show is on at the Kangaroo Flat Community Artspace until 27th August. Below are some photographs I took.

the illusionist

2011-08-10T22:59:00.000+10:00

Finally was able to catch the last screening of this little gem at the Star Cinema. On a wet cold night, sitting back in a red velvet couch with a cup of tea & a cherry ripe and watching The Illusionist was such a lovely night. The animation was gorgeous.

Stamp & Stitch ::

2011-08-09T21:31:00.000+10:00

^ Thank-you to Margot Feast for creating the flyer. Shall be very interesting.

Dia del Muerto

2011-08-07T20:55:00.000+10:00

Bendigo is in a wedding craze at the moment with the exhibition happening up at the Art Gallery. El Gordo in Chancery Lane have got an interesting little show on with the wedding theme. A large portrait of a "Dia del Muerto" bride and groom by artist Daniel Butterworth graces the laneways wall during the day, and inside the new Salon Comedor.

^ By Kyenton artist Daniel Butterworth.

Other pieces include black & white photographs and paraphernalia such as a 1959 Barbie and Ken wedding couple and little cake toppers. I love how kooky this show is compared to the traditional wedding and the whole Day of the Dead feeling continues through it all.

The show runs until October 28th, you can have some lovely coffee & food while visiting also. There is also an online album for the unusual wedding photograph found online, you can find more information over here.

art for sale.

2011-08-07T20:14:00.000+10:00

Both works are for sale {size: approx 10cm x 10cm}, they were exhibited as part of El Gordo's first group show and are now at the Kangaroo Flat Art Space ready for a new home. For more details feel free to email me at; theteachildren@live.com

The White Wedding Dress: 200 Years of Wedding Fashions

2011-08-04T14:55:00.001+10:00

The Bendigo Art Gallery has just opened their latest international show to the public on Monday the 1st, from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

During the 1830’s white muslin was very popular for wedding dresses, as was embroidered silks and lace. Contrasting with these delicate and detailed pieces were colored and printed dresses, as some woman could not afford anything else, these fabrics were quite accessible to them.

Complementing the gowns were various accessories including wedding bonnets from the 19th century, which also included the “going-away bonnet” for the honeymoon. The bonnets were adorned with ribbons, wax & paper flowers representing orange-blossoms which was a tradition during those times. Other accessories were embroidered muslin handkerchiefs, paper fans, wedding favors, wreaths and a silk wedding bag. All were just as detailed and delicate as the gowns.

During the 1880’s dresses had a more interesting cut and elaborate decoration including silk gauze drapery, and hand embroidered with glass beads. They would be worn with shoes or ankle boots made from silk and leather. The footwear was fairly narrow suggesting they had small feet in those times; their waists were also tiny from wearing corsets.

It was all so amazing to see so much detail, patience, skill and love be poured into the creation of these gowns. Most would glisten under the light due to the glass beads or metallic thread, it was all so gorgeous.

One interesting dress; due to its color, was a Red Wedding Dress from 1938 which was unusual at the time but the woman hope it reflected her pleasure in the color and her independence. It had contrasted heaps to the white and vintage colors of the earlier designs.

Included in the White Wedding Dress is a handful of celebrity dress’s including Gwen Stefani’s 2002 dress by John Galliano for Dior {which is half spray painted pink}, Dita von Teese’s Wedding Corset plus her purple dress which she commissioned Vivienne Westwood to create.

The last room of the exhibition is The Australian Aesthetic 1822 – 2011 which included more modern designs from Fashion Houses in Melbourne and Sydney. One in particular used a painted splat tee shirt and tulle, plus another dress using wool with crystal glass beads. The late 20th Century designs moved forward and were more individual than traditional.

The White Wedding Dress is on until November 6th at the Bendigo Art Gallery. For information on coinciding events & ticket prices head to bendigoartgallery.com.au

^ Photograph courtesy of the Bendigo Art Gallery. Embroidered silk satin wedding dress designed by Norman Hartnell, London, 1933. Commissioned by Margaret Whigham for her marriage to Charles Sweeny on 21 February 1933. Given and worn by Margaret, Duchess of Argyll. ©Victoria and Albert Museum/V&A Images

Interview with Tansy Curtin

2011-08-04T14:33:00.001+10:00

Tansy Curtin is one of the curators at the Bendigo Art Gallery, & I got to speak to her about the newest exhibition The White Wedding Dress: 200 Years of Wedding Fashions.

^ Photograph courtesy of the Bendigo Art Gallery; Wedding dress designed by Vera Wang for her spring 2007 bridal collection. Tissue organza and satin faced organza. Worn by Katie Bella Turner for her marriage to Andrew Robert Hayward on 26 August 2007 in Setauket, U.S.A. Lent by the American Friends of the V&A

How were the dresses shipped and transported to the gallery?

The dresses are all transported already dressed on their mannequins. They are specially packed in individual crates. Each dress is wrapped in a parachute silk protective cover with padding (as necessary for beading and other fragile details) and then an outer tyvek cover is placed over the top. The dresses were shipped by sea.

What is it like curating a fabric and textile exhibition that is fairly large in scale? It is obviously different to say works on paper or oil paintings.

It can be quite challenging to bring together an exhibition of large-scale textiles as they have incredibly different requirements from works on paper or paintings. The Gallery employed an exhibition designer to develop the design and layout for the cabinets and exhibition elements.

How do you determine where things are positioned, does it take a long time?

For the White Wedding Dress the curator, Edwina Ehrman from the V&A, determined the layout of the exhibition – the layout is generally chronological and follows the history of wedding fashions. We also worked closely with the exhibition designers to work out logical movement for patrons through the exhibition. We had most of the layout predetermined before the exhibition began to be installed in Bendigo, with just a few small changes once the curator arrived. For the Australian exhibition the Director, Karen Quinlan and I worked on not only chronology but also making the large open plinths interesting and dynamic (there are many more dresses in a smaller space in this section). Because of the diverse range of dresses this was extremely challenging and took a number of weeks to complete.

When setting the dresses up, did stories pop into mind about what the history of the dress was like e.g. who wore it? What the wedding was like?We work closely with a Melbourne-based publicist for the publicity for our key exhibitions and together we worked on developing stories for different media. Our publicist is very good at finding stories and tailoring them to specific publications.

Did you enjoy curating this exhibit? And what have been some of your favorite moments, dresses or jobs throughout have you enjoyed to make this exhibition become a reality?I have very much enjoyed working on both exhibitions – as project manager for the white wedding dress and curator of the Australian aesthetic. Obviously I have been working on these exhibitions for a number of years and I think the highlight would have to be finally opening the first crate to reveal these magnificent gowns – there is only so much you can see in a photograph, the delicacy and detail of these gowns and other objects is absolutely extraordinary. As a handicraft-type person it is also inspiring to see some of the incredible skills these dressmakers and lace makers had and it certainly makes me think about learning how to embroider!

the black lagoon

2011-08-02T14:27:00.000+10:00

Today I stumbled across this new store The Black Lagoon located at Shop 9, Centreway Arcade, Bendigo. I was so happy to have come across a place that is stocking Hungry Designs! There was such a Tiki vibe also which was very cool. Also stocking alternative Australian labels Route 66, Elvy Ess, Lady Moon Designs, Sailor Mouth Soaps and The Bone Factory Tees. The lovely Jess allowed me to take some photographs for my blog.

CURRENT exhibition opening night.

2011-08-02T00:00:00.003+10:00

Last night was the opening of the Bendigo TAFE second year Diploma of Visual Arts exhibition opening at Allan's Walk. Eight students in the class including me have put this together which is on until the 9th August. It features various works such as Photography, Oil Painting, Lino Cuts, Sculpture, and Drawing among others.

The night was opened by the lovely Megan Spencer. There was a great turn out as well from Friends and Family. Afterwards we went to Puggs for celebratory drinks & Nachos. It has been great to see it all come together as we have been working on it for quite some time.

Also got some exciting news regarding an upcoming exhibition offer for early next year.

^ My little works on show.

^ Artwork & setup.

52 Challenge :: Week 21.

2011-07-24T14:40:00.001+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 21 :: Scrabble Brooch

July 6th - 24th July 2011

I made a very simple and easy brooch today; made from a scrabble piece, tag & safety pin. I got the idea from my Mum who had made one the other week. And I thought to quickly whip one up, also I can use it on my Vintage Inspired Circus cloth book I am currently working on.

^ Thrifted doily, a corner of my room from where I am sitting and the Scrabble Brooch.

hello meany potato!

2011-07-21T22:01:00.000+10:00

Today Mum & I came across a new store; Meany Potato located at 133 - 135 High Street, Kangaroo Flat. It is a new scrap booking & craft store. I am not usually too keen on the scrap booking, but do use a lot of the scrap booking materials for my mixed media works. This store has some great papers & embellishments plus the cutest stamps. I had to purchase one & a new little notebook {both from Santoro's Gorjuss line} which are imported from London. I shall defiantly be going in on a regular basis. You can check it out on Facebook also.

art & travelling.

2011-07-20T19:33:00.000+10:00

Today was my TAFE Art Excursion, we travelled down to Melbourne via train to the Ian Potter Centre and NGV International. I got to see the Eugene von Guérard exhibition Nature Revealed and Vienna: Art & Design which is part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces. As well as seeing the exhibitions we attended small lectures on both, giving a background on the artist's and era of the artwork. While at the Ian Potter Centre I was also able to quickly check out Man Style; some of the needlework on the garments were amazing & so detailed.

A few weeks back when I travelled to Melbourne for a day in the city with my Aunt we went to the NGV Studio, I went again as it had changed; Inherent Vice is the newest exhibition/studio space {you can keep updated via the Tumblr here}. The studio will house 8 Melbourne Artists till the 14th August, the artist's are Zine makers, web cartoonists, late night scribblers and active members of the city’s small press community. It was really interesting too see.

I also checked out No Vacancy Gallery Project Space which is also located at Federation Square. On show is Stephen Ives's 36 Views of My Latte. I loved the fine liner cups that were in the artworks.

I can't wait till I travel back down to see more art & new things in the city. I was very happy also to pick up Dame Darcy's book Gasoline, plus a new notebook {which is super cute with a squirrel on the front}.

Stamp and stitch: creative textile projects for the primary classroom

2011-07-19T16:21:00.001+10:00

To coincide with The White Wedding Dress: 200 Years of Wedding Fashions at the Bendigo Art Gallery I shall be running this workshop with the Gallery Education Officer Margot Feast for Primary School Teachers {a part of Gallery's Teacher Programs}. This is going to be very exciting. I shall be posting updates Et Cetera for this & other events that I am part of coinciding with this exhibition.

Stamp and stitch: creative textile projects for the primary classroom

10am – 3pm

Wednesday 30 August

$55 members/$60 non members

A special practical workshop with Bendigo artist Kelly Robson and Gallery Education Officer Margot Feast. Incorporating creative stitching, photocopying, printmaking and recycled materials this program will inspire teachers both in and of the classroom. Lunch and all materials will be provided.

Carnival of Carnage

2011-07-18T23:14:00.000+10:00

CARNIVAL OF CARNAGE

Bendigo's 1st Roller Derby Home Game!

Dragon City Derby Dolls - Chiko Rollers
VS
Ballarat Roller Derby League - Rat Pack

:: Tickets ::

Adult ; $10

Children under 12; $5

Children under 4; Free

:: Tickets available online at ::

dragoncityderbydolls.com

or buy them in person at:

Black Wren Tattoo Lounge (Bendigo)

Off Ya Tree (Bendigo)

Connections BMX (Eaglehawk)

just a dream

2011-07-10T11:50:00.001+10:00

On Saturday I saw this flash mob at the Bendigo Market Place food court with people from Bendigo YMCA Sh'bam & Cheer 'n Dance , my younger sister Charley was involved. It was great to see, and so many people were watching.

52 Challenge :: Week 20.

2011-07-05T01:12:00.001+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 20 :: ABC Brooch
June 29th - 5th July 2011

Time has been a little tight lately {still} so I whipped up a cute & simple brooch which is quite fun! An ABC brooch, a red C {younger sister Charley chose it} with a brooch clasp on the back. Great to have the letter of your name or something kooky like X or Z.

Art space opens to applause

2011-07-02T12:55:00.000+10:00

by Charlotta Lomas {Courtesy of The Bendigo Advertiser}

A new community arts space and gallery in Kangaroo Flat were officially opened on Friday night by Greater Bendigo mayor Rod Fyffe.

The new precinct on High Street was a collaborative project between Kangaroo Flat Arts Inc, Kangaroo Flat Community and the City of Bendigo.

City of Greater Bendigo co-ordinator of arts and culture and chairwoman of Kangaroo Flat Arts Inc, Maree Tonkin, said the community initiative was about supporting and celebrating local art.

“It’s essentially about having a community hub where people can view and participate in art,” she said

The art space and gallery, which are open to all genres of art, are located across four shop fronts in the Kangaroo Flat arcade.
The art space is the third of its kind to be established in the City of Greater Bendigo and is part of a bigger plan to roll out community art spaces across the municipality.

Cr Fyffe said it was a fantastic initiative.”

“While we already have the high end of art with the gallery and Capital theatre, we also need a space where artists can pursue their endeavours,” he said.

“The new space will encourage people in the community to participate in, learn and value the arts.”

^ It’s official: Rod Fyffe cuts the ribbon to open the new community arts space and gallery in Kangaroo Flat.

Photograph by Matt Kimpton

opening night!

2011-07-01T23:59:00.001+10:00

Tonight was the launch & opening night of the Kangaroo Flat Artspace with a members group exhibition on show which was officially opened by the Mayor of Bendigo, Rod Fyffe. I ended up helping him cut the ribbon which was random.

The work of 7 members shall be on display for about the next month with a range of pastel work, oil painting, handmade buttons, photography, mixed media and works on paper. I have 2 works on display. My Mum also has Mixed Media works on show. Maree Tonkin {who is also President of the Kangaroo Flat Arts Inc} took the photograph below, she also has photography works on display too.

^ Artwork L-R Clockwise; Both works together, Circus Elephant {Graphite on Paper, 2011, Not for Sale}, The Park {Mixed Media, 2011, $55} & The Tea Children's Logo.

busy bumble bee

2011-06-28T20:48:00.000+10:00

I have been a little quiet on the blogging & art front, mainly due to finally having a job and so it has been somewhat overwhelming. I am currently working at the Bendigo Cinemas which I am very excited about; selling film tickets, boxing up popcorn, cleaning 3D glasses, the works. There is also a handful of exhibitions, design work & workshops Et cetera as well that I am currently working on which shall be blogged about. But I am still alive!

^Snapshot of the Bendigo Cinemas © Kelly Robson 2011

52 Challenge :: Week 19.

2011-06-28T20:34:00.000+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 19 :: Steampunk Inspired Brooch
May 22nd - 28th June 2011

Yes, I have fallen well behind in the brooch challenge by almost a month. Things are very chaotic with myself at the moment but I have found a spare few moments to finally get creating again. I adore the Steampunk style and thought a brooch would look brilliant. I have used found objects to create it, a brooch clasp on the back and a gold finish.

CURRENT exhibition opening!

2011-06-28T16:39:00.000+10:00

:: CURRENT ::

Opening night with Megan Spencer

Monday August 1st :: 5pm 7pm

Allan's Walk Art Space

Eight BRiT second year Diploma of Visual Arts Students are exhibiting a range of their work, including Photography, Painting, Sculpture, Print Making and works on Paper.

Samara Jayne Belz

Michael Cogan

Andrew Hobbs

Emma Johnson

Lynette McNaughton

Maria Patsiouras

Kelly Robson

Simon Warlond

August 1st - 9th 2011

Monday - Saturday; 10am - 4pm

Launch; Kangaroo Flat Community Artspace

2011-06-21T01:49:00.000+10:00

I shall be having art on display as part of the launch & first show {of members work}.

For more updates & information on this space head over to the blog.

Day Trip :: Melbourne

2011-06-19T12:52:00.000+10:00

I was able to scrape up some coins to get to Melbourne on Saturday to meet up with my Auntie. We spent the day in the city looking at all sorts of arty things. We sat at one of the many tiny, cute cafes in Centre Place with a hot chocolate, & the Krispy Kremes we had bought earlier. I love all the little alleyways and places you can find. We made our way to Federation Square via Degraves Street.

The Light in Winter was happening, with a huge scaffolding pyramid with handmade lanterns, crocheting & material scraps covering the structure. Later that day we took home a lantern pattern for ourselves. Also happening at Federation Square was the regular book market.

NGV Studio was our next stop to see the Street Art crew from Everfresh; one part was a gallery with works, & used equipment on display and the other half was set up like their studio. It was great! Spray cans, stickers, frames, photos, scribbles, & alsorts of other weird things. We were also able to meet one of the artists before leaving.

We crossed over to Hosier Lane; a legal Street Art lane way. I haven't been there in so long, & it is constantly changing with all sorts of new work appearing. Before travelling to Melbourne I spent the night drawing up a character from The Tea Children on sticker paper to place within the lane way, & he now has a spot on the walls {I do wonder how long it will be there for}. I also made a sticker out of the artwork I created for the City of Greater Bendigo's Monthly Art Calendar; which was placed on another section of the lane way.

^ The Tea Children, Hosier Lane, Melbourne 2011

My Auntie also had placed some work up the previous week with her work clients, they were still there. It feels surreal almost to have my work in such a known place. We also found the Until Never Gallery however it wasn't opened. When we crossed back over, I could see the MCG, a huge Ferris Wheel, and the Big Top of Circus Oz; I do hope I can travel back down to see their new show, which I ended up finding postcards of at the Information Centre at Federation Square {as well as the huge banners on Flinders Street Station}.

For lunch we had a yummy Pizza from Café Chinotto in the sun outside, we then checked out the ACMI shop where I bought a cute little postcard. After sitting down to look at my train timetable to head back to Bendigo, I picked up a lot of things from the Information Centre then hopped on a train to Southern Cross {I still always want to call it Spencer Street}.

I enjoyed my day & hope to make it a regular trip, everything is always changing & it's great for getting inspired.

Day Trip :: Melbourne

FLARE Magazine #2 + giveaway!

2011-06-16T21:49:00.000+10:00

FLARE #2 has hit the streets today around Bendigo, and I was super excited to pick it up. There is a diverse range of articles such as street culture, music festivals, travelling Et cetera plus some lovely photography & all for free. I also love the idea they had for the cover shoot. Be sure to keep a look out on the website. You can pick a copy up in Bendigo from; Skin Ski Surf, Musos Stuff, Subtle Eye, Shed 7, Back Alley Boutique and the SU at Latrobe University, Hudson's Hub plus many other places around town.

:: GIVEAWAY ::

I thought I would give a copy away like I did with Issue #1 {even though it is free} due to anyone who doesn't live in Bendigo & would like a chance to see what some talented young people are doing. Just leave a comment below and you will be in the running, entries close on the last day of June {Thursday 30th} with the winner drawn via random.org.

Food, Film & Flying Trapeze!

2011-06-14T18:56:00.000+10:00

Step right up! The Eaglehawk Town Hall becomes a Big Top for one night only!

Step inside from the cold and experience a sensory overload of food and film. Dine on delicious winter fare in a circus-inspired atmosphere before settling in for a big screen viewing of the much anticipated Water for Elephants.

Tickets $45 / $40 Conc and members, include a sit-down two-course meal and film screening. Meat and vegetarian options available. Please indicate dietary restrictions on booking. Drinks available at bar prices. Book early to avoid disappointment, places strictly limited.

No Fear Circus will also be putting on a roving circus of acrobats, contortionists, unicyclists, jugglers, illusionists and clowns.

STAR CINEMA, EAGLEHAWK

SATURDAY JUNE 18

DOORS OPEN 6.30PM

{infomation courtesy of the Star Cinema}

going gaga!

2011-06-12T15:38:00.000+10:00

^ Charley's 12th Birthday Party with friends; I think it would be fun to be a childrens' party planner.

{Yes it was a Lady Gaga theme, & have her music stuck in my mind}

:: Shaun Tan ::

2011-06-11T21:49:00.002+10:00

Shaun Tan is one of my greatest inspirations, I love his work, and it is simply amazing. Today I travelled to Woodend with my mum to see him at the Woodend Winter Arts Festival.

The session; held at the Woodend Community Centre was sold out, and one can see why. For an hour he was interviewed and spoke about his work in great detail from types of pencils & papers he uses to the production of the Academy Award Winning short film The Lost Thing {based on his book of the same name}. The film was also screened which was great to watch.

Various inspiring words were also spoken and that I shall take away with me “Go out & look for inspiration, don’t just sit there”, this is something I really need to put to practice. It was also inspiring to hear how he was told he wouldn’t make a successful career from art but here he is, making a very good living & achieving so much. However he did state the beginning is hard.

After having a little Q & A time with the audience, Shaun did a signing; there were also his publications & film for sale. I was so excited and happy I bought my Shaun Tan Journal along that mum got me for Easter just in case, which I got him to sign; he also drew one of his little creations. I also picked up the film & book set which I can’t wait to explore.

As well as the Spotlight on Shaun Tan, his work was also on exhibit at the Colenso Gallery, which I adored. It is this cute, little rustic feeling gallery down a hidden walkway behind a Café of the same name, plus there is the Acres Wild Nursery selling seedlings & herbs. On show were original prints for sale, Story board sketches, plus texture & background paintings from The Lost Thing. It was amazing to see his work on show after attending the talk.

Woodend::
I haven’t been to Woodend in such a long time, apart from the Shaun Tan aspects of the day, I ventured into a book shop called New Leaves that had some lovely books and where I picked up The Evil Garden by Edward Gorey. I love little, strange picture books, so I had to have it. I also got inspired by a stripe, painted cupboard that I found in a store window {I hope to make my own}. Mum also showed me The Geri-Buskers, 3 old women playing instruments such as the harp & piano accordion on the sidewalk with weird little hats. I had a great day, even though the wind was very chilly.

Hudson's Hub

2011-06-07T16:34:00.000+10:00

Today I was finally able to get in & check out Hudson's Hub located in the centre of Bendigo. Hudson's Hub is a; Retail Art Gallery in Bendigo. Stocking local, national and international contemporary pop Art, lowbrow art, pop surrealism and underground art, art and design books, vinyl collectible figures and ceramics.

With work by such Artists as Shag, Kozyndan plus DIY figures, and vinyl dolls from the likes of Nathan J it is a lovely to see a different range of art within this region. I shall definitely be having regular visits. You can also find Hudson's Hub on Facebook here.

Artwork; June Arts Calendar 2011

2011-06-03T20:09:00.002+10:00

Each month the City of Greater Bendigo produce an Arts Calendar with all sorts of events on it from exhibitions, talks to performances. Today the June issue was put out amongst the streets. I was lucky to be asked by Rohan to put an artwork as the background. It is called The Park and is a mixed media piece. You can pick them up at various places including; Bendigo Library, Visitor information Centre, Bendigo Art Gallery, The Capital, La Trobe Visual Art Centre, various other places or online here.

Last week; El Gordo Exhibition

2011-06-03T19:43:00.000+10:00

It is the last week to check out the Group Art Exhibition at El Gordo, it has been extended till June 11th. All work is for sale as well, so pop in have a coffee & some great healthy lunch. Also it is very exciting is the June issue of Trouble is out with the cover image Bubble Rainbow by Chris Kennett {which is on show at El Gordo}. Was also lucky to see my name in print in Trouble {plus their website} amongst the other amazing Artists in the show. Exhibiting next is the lovely Sopheea which will be a great show. I am so happy that I have been able to have my work up with such great artists and lovely people.

Saltimbanco ~

2011-05-21T21:31:00.000+10:00

Cirque du Soleil presented a special preview of their show Saltimbanco today in Bendigo at the Town Hall. Saltimbanco is touring nationally around Australia. I have yet to see one of their stunning performances and wasn't quick enough to get picked to juggle for tickets. I do hope I shall get a chance one day to see a full performance. The performers were also very lovely when we met them. Sadly it was a very short performance but had a heap of locals watching.

52 Challenge :: Week 18.

2011-05-21T21:28:00.000+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 18 :: Rose Pink Brooch
May 8th - 21st May 2011

This brooch is using Rose Pink paint, patterned paper & little embellishments that compliment the paper & paint nicely. I love the old Victorian feel to it.

Cirque du Soleil Act to Perform in Bendigo

2011-05-15T16:21:00.002+10:00

:: PRESS RELEASE ::

Bendigo residents will get to experience a taste of the world renowned Cirque du Soleil® this May with a free mini performance at Bendigo Town Hall.

As the presenting sponsor of the 2011 Saltimbanco Australian tour, Optus will be giving Bendigo residents a glimpse into the Cirque du Soleil artistry, including breathtaking acrobatics, spectacular costumes and enchanting music.
Bendigo residents are invited to come down to the Town Hall to enjoy a free performance on Saturday 21st May. The event will include Saltimbanco inspired face painting, juggling lessons with an expert juggler and prize give-aways.

Optus Country General Manager, Anthony Shiner says Optus is excited to bring a Cirque du Soleil mini performance to Bendigo in what will be a fun event for all. “We’re inviting the local community to come along and experience a specially designed performance of a Cirque du Soleil act. A worldwide phenomenon, Saltimbanco has been seen by over 12 million people since it premiered in 1992 and we’re delighted to bring a sneak peak of the show to Bendigo for residents to enjoy too.”

For more information about Saltimbanco, tour dates and how to purchase tickets please visit www.optus.com.au/cirque or http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/saltimbanco. Saltimbanco will be on at Rod Laver Arena from 25 May to 11 June 2011.

{Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil}

El Gordo :: Group Exhibition Opening

2011-05-14T18:17:00.002+10:00

Today at El Gordo was the Grand Opening as well as the Opening of the Group Art Exhibition. Mum and I headed down Chancery Lane which was rather packed, so we didn't stay long. But it was lovely to see one of my favorite places in Bendigo so busy. The exhibition is on until June 10th, so I know I shall go back & have a proper look. I have 2 pieces on show and also for sale {$45 each}.

^ My 2 artworks; bottom centre.

Water for Elephants ::

2011-05-12T21:12:00.000+10:00

Water for Elephants is based on the acclaimed number one bestselling book of the same name by Sara Gruen. The story takes place in the present with an elderly Jacob Jankowski who takes himself to the circus, the show manager taking him inside out of the night & rain. Here he then begins to tell his story. Jacob {Robert Pattinson} has no life to go back to & jumps a train not knowing it was a circus.

Getting the approval from August {Christoph Waltz}; the boss, Jacob becomes The Benzini Brothers veterinarian. He soon becomes infatuated with the star attraction Marlena {Reese Witherspoon}, who unfortunately is married to August.

At one lucky stop, where another circus has left it's pickings, they acquire Rosie, the elephant. She gets some rough treatment until she co-operates. Rosie & Marlena are then the star attraction together creating an act for the show. Things get hairy due to Augusts’ violent outburst; however the film ends on sort a somber but happy ending.

Having read the book prier to seeing the film, I could see what parts they used & changed. I must say I did enjoy the book more but did love the film, the costuming. The performances were very well done, especially the tricks & limits of the elephant.

Water for Elephants opened nationally today; check your local Cinema for screening times.

showtime!

2011-05-11T23:36:00.000+10:00

Tonight I went to the first performance of Circus Olympia with my 2 younger sisters, niece and mum. I haven't been to the circus for a few years now and was excited to see one pop up in Bendigo again. Watching rope acts, animals, fire juggling & hula hooping was amazing. My youngest sister {11} & I got little cheap show bags that have strange bits in it like novelty ears & a jigsaw to name a few. And no circus is a circus without fairy floss which we finished off when we got home. Also taking with us a souvenir keyring with a photograph of us all on it with the circus's image on the other side.

The Whimsical Magenta.

2011-05-10T18:23:00.001+10:00

You may have seen Phillipa Finch gracing ABC on a Tuesday night, with her little whimsical journey & lucky enough I got to have a chat with the lovely Emma Magenta; the creator behind her.

Did you always know you wanted to create things from drawings & words?
I have always drawn and loved the written word since I was a kid, writing stories, drawing constantly, reading everything. I never thought too much about it, I just did it. Drawing was always something that I really focused on as an adult, whereas writing was a private activity for a very long time. I only really merged the two things at a certain point because I loved the juxtaposition of certain ideas with a very naïve drawing style…it was more to amuse myself. Humour is key for me when it comes to any kind of epiphany…the drawings and writings are my way of arriving at that feeling.

Where does your inspiration come from?
My personal life mainly as well as observations of human behavior, listening to people’s stories and hearing the emotional truth behind what they are really saying. A deep commitment to locating the divine in everything, animals, music and song lyrics, being open to finding magic in the moment regardless of how mundane, the desire to connect with others on a real basis…many things.

Do personal experiences play a part in how you construct your writing?
I cannot write fantasy. I have tried to write about imagined experiences, but I feel like a fraud…it lacks emotional resonance. I use writing as a way of finding out what happened, what I really felt at the time. I can’t seem to move forward until I make peace with my emotional history. It sounds particularly self-indulgent, but I truly believe that my experiences will mirror many other people’s experiences. Perhaps my understanding of it may in some way be like a friend holding your hand through a rough time.

How was Phillipa Finch born from paper to film?
Phillipa Finch was a name I invented to give life to a shadow side of my nature. She is the self that is seeking absolute perfection in all things, ultimately love. When there is an absence of it in her life, rather than have an emotional meltdown, she turns into an uber control freak and believes herself inadequate and constructs her life around an absolute need for super, SUPER perfection in EVERYTHING.

I wrote for a year in 2008 as to why Phillipa is this way, why she is numb emotionally to sort out why I was like this. It was cheaper than therapy. Then Rachel Okine from Hopscotch Productions approached me and asked me if I would like to create an animation with her…whatever I wanted to do. Such a luscious invitation couldn’t be ignored, so I began to pen a script around the ideas in the book I had written. ABC were in love with it and they wanted it. I began to draw all the illustrations and with the help of some very talented animators; Aaron Powell, Cindy Bower and Adam Lau, my drawings were brought to life. Rachel Okine is really the main genius for bringing together such an amazing bunch of talented individuals. There was also a lot of going for grant funding from Screen Australia and Screen NSW which is like gambling really, but we were very fortunate to have their support as well and hence, Phillipa Finch was birthed.

What was it like to have Toni Collette narrate the series?
Toni is highly professional and gave an extraordinary gift to the project. We had an already established working relationship through collaborating on her children’s book (Planet Yawn) as an illustrator and drawings for her band and art collection in general. She is always a lot of fun and a perfectionist is the best possible sense. She offered to be Phillipa Finch for me when I was ruminating on how to convey the narration without overwhelming the viewer with too much voice…she was perfect.

The Phillipa Finch iPhone game was such an interesting concept & creation, how did that come about?
The whole project from the outset was going to be a multi-platform project, an idea put forward by The ABC. It is fortunate, because I was able to work with truly gifted people. The iPhone game was put together by Guy Gadney from The Project Factory and Chrisitine Coulston from The ABC, although I was able to offer my ideas too. It is pretty funny that I should have an iPhone game anywhere near my name since I am pretty synonymous with such a lo-fi, almost anti-technology aesthetic. This project has really brought me up to speed with it all however.

What’s install for you next?
I am taking a break until the end of May and then I am getting into bringing together all of my notes and imaginings on a new character called Agatha Trundle and her story. An animation yes, but also with something else…it’s a secret. It is never good to speak out loud to anyone of a creation until it has passed the first trimester.

You can purchase the DVD, book, iPhone game and other Phillipa Finch bits over at the ABC shop.

GIVEAWAY:

I have a copy of one of Magenta's previous publications The Origin of Lament to giveaway to a lucky reader of The Tea Children. Leave a comment below with one of your favorite quotes, with your email address & don't forget to be a follower. Entries close on Tuesday 17th and the winner will be drawn via random.org

Circus Olympia

2011-05-10T13:54:00.005+10:00

CIRCUS OLMYPIA

Bendigo Showgrounds
May 11th - 22nd May

First time ever to show Bendigo! Direct from Europe!

Adults from $25, Children from $15 & Family {2 adult, 2 children} $65

SHOWTIMES ::

Wednesday 11th May - 7.30pm
Thursday 12th May - 7.30pm

Friday 13th May - 7.30pm
Saturday 14th May - 2pm & 7.30pm

Sunday 15th May - 1pm & 7.30pm
Wednesday 18th May - 7.30pm

Thursday 19th May - 7.30pm
Friday 20th May - 7.30pm
Saturday 21st May - 2pm & 7.30pm
Sunday 22nd May - 1pm

Onsite ticket office open show days from 10am / Phone bookings daily via 0427513030 from

10am - 7.30pm

Or
book online here.

^ Circus Olmypia via here.

52 Challenge :: Week 17.

2011-05-07T13:02:00.001+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 17 :: Peepshow Freakshow Brooch
April 27th - 7th May 2011

I am a little behind again in this challenge, I just have so much on at the moment. This is a simple black & white brooch with a hint of pink with the ribbon with text to balance it out.

El Gordo Cafe & Art Space - Grand Opening Group Exhibition

2011-05-05T19:49:00.001+10:00

"To celebrate the opening of new Bendigo cafe and art space, El Gordo (it means 'The Fat One' in Spanish'), a group exhibition of 8 local artists has been curated by co-owner, Megan Spencer."

Opening; 12pm - 2pm, Saturday May 14th at El Gordo, Chancery Lane, Bendigo.

Work by the following artists will be included:

animator Chris Kennett

craftist Kelly Robson

collage artist/illustrator Sopheea

digital artist Hugh Waller

illustrator Tony Olsson

painter Lisa Hohenfels

metal artist Mel Stockx

designer/illustrator Sonia Brit

The exhibition runs from May 14th till June 10th.

Opening hours: Monday to Friay from 8am till 4.30pm.

El Gordo :: Coffee & Culture

2011-04-27T18:55:00.000+10:00

El Gordo is a little newly opened Cafe' in Chancery Lane, Bendigo. Owned by the lovely Oliver Budack along with wife Megan Spencer. Lovely coffee, friendly atmosphere, art & music. Megan also has her Lomo prints for sale as well.

"El Gordo" means "The Fat One" in Spanish.

"Inspired by Spanish and Southern European coffee culture, El Gordo offers an amazing coffee menu, healthy and delicious breakfasts, lunches and snacks - plus great service."

Mum and I had coffee, hot chocolate & cute little rum balls which were yum! I also took in a new artwork for Megan as part of a group show that shall be happening at El Gordo from May 14th {shall keep you in the loop with more details}, so that shall be very exciting.

^ Oliver & Megan featured in the bottom photograph.

52 Challenge :: Week 16.

2011-04-26T14:24:00.000+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 16 :: Playing Card Brooch
April 20th - 26th April 2011

What can you do with left over Easter egg wrappers? Re-use them. I kept all my wrappers for mum however I have a thing for the color red at the moment {and gold}, so using a red wrapper I covered the base of my brooch. Sifting through a stash of old playing cards, I picked out a couple of red hearts {Alice in Wonderland inspired} & some contrasting buttons and placed it all together.

Bendigo Textile Artists Inc. Presents "The Dablers"

2011-04-24T17:00:00.002+10:00

"An exhibition of excellence featuring the work of over 20 Central Victorian craftswomen who like to "Dabble" in a variety of different crafts and artistic expressions.Informative displays featuring patchwork, embroidery, felting, working with paper, weaving, beading, manipulation of fabric, painting and recycling and more."

^ Top - Clockwise; Donna Brown, Pink Possum ~ Original Artworks by Jen Aburrow & Jenny Rodda, Jenny Campbell, Unknown.

^ Textile Artists include; Shirley Dougal, Lorraine Hywood, Donna Brown & Pink Possum among other wonderful creations.

The Dablers exhibiton was on during the Easter Weekend, and is held by the Bendigo Textile Artists Inc. I went 2 years ago with mum & it was very inspiring, a lot different from this years but I did get inspired with ideas for an upcoming project I am beginning. As well as textiles there is a range of mixed media works, Altered books, Polymer Clay jewelry, knitting, Artist Trading Cards {ATC's}, soft dolls & quilting. I also picked up some fabric remnants so I can use. It is on every 2 years so looks like I shall have to wait another year!

Easter Carnival

2011-04-23T21:51:00.000+10:00

^ Saturday 23rd April 2011

52 Challenge :: Week 15.

2011-04-19T19:27:00.000+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 15 :: Mad Tea-Party Brooch
April 10th - 19th April 2011

I am a little late with this weeks brooch {lost track of what day it was}, but have finally created something over the past couple of days. I firstly used gold spray paint; as I was already using it to re-vamp my market table. I created red stripes ontop, the masking tape had peeled some gold off but gave it an old effect which I loved. Took me a little while to think about what to do with it next. However mum passed me a old blue colored bottle top from her collection and along with old book text it was finished. It does have a circus feel which I adore, the book it is sitting on is The Magician's Elephant by Kate Dicamillo which I am going to get stuck into this week.

A Spoonful Easter

2011-04-15T16:07:00.002+10:00

Over the past couple of days I have been decorating an egg for Spoonful Zine. I used mixed media elements; bits of book pages, buttons, text, imagery, gold paint & fineliner drawings plus dyed it red.

The Impossible Girl

2011-04-11T11:00:00.000+10:00

^ A photograph from Kim's first residency at The Empress on April 6th.

Kim Boekbinder is definitely the Impossible Girl; a performer, musician and visual artist with a new project under her belt as well as a tour with various shows around Australia during April and beyond.

I was lucky enough to be able to have a little chat with Kim.

You are based in various locations, but where do you call home?
I would also like to know the answer to that question. I love too many places to call just one of them 'home'. But I know I'll be spending a lot of time in Melbourne, Australia and in New York City.

What has inspired you to dabble in various areas of the arts? Have you always wanted to create music & art?
I've always been intensely creative. I'm always making art, always thinking about it, always humming new songs, drawing new things, tearing napkins into shapes, creating sculptures out of leaves or whatever is in front of me. Art is everywhere and is everything for me. The medium isn't as important as the expression. I make music now, mostly, but I could just as easily be a sculptor, or film maker, or writer.

Your music is quite whimsical & dreamy, where do you find the inspiration behind it?
Like a sea anemone I let the inspiration swim close and then snap it up and devour it. Sometimes I get nothing; sometimes I get a delicious song.

What can we expect from your upcoming shows?
Amazing costumes (from Rose Chong Costumes,) amazing songs, new set lists every night, stories, new instruments, and new musical guests. And to be carried away in the moment.

I Have Your Heart is one of your latest ventures with artist Molly Crabapple and Melbourne based animator Jim Batt, how did this come about?
Molly and I have collaborated on and off for the past couple of years. She's an amazing artist and an amazing person, we get along so well personally and artistically that we are always trying to think of new things to do just so we can keep being around each other. With both of us so busy we can spend more time together if it's also "work." Molly and I knew we wanted to do an animation together. We asked the internet to provide us with an animator and Jim Batt applied for the job.

How do you find the time for all of your adventures?
I have NO IDEA. I think I must have a small time factory hidden in my suitcases somewhere. I never feel like I'm getting enough done, but then when I look back I see a pretty intensely packed schedule and a lot of art produced.

Where is the impossible girl heading next?
Mars!

For everything impossible & more information about Kim's upcoming shows visit: kimboekbinder.com

Supanova 2011

2011-04-10T23:24:00.003+10:00

Today was quite long & tiring but was great fun. I took my younger sister down to this years Supanova; a Pop Culture Convention...it is a plus when she is free with my ticket {as well as the train fair}. The main reason of going was Tom Felton {Draco Malfoy of the Harry Potter film series}. Most of the morning was waiting in lines; to get in, to get photograph token, to get photograph taken, to pick up photo. Then later on it was a line to get into the JB Hi-Fi Theatre to see Felton's Q & A which was great.

I also found some lovely cosplayers; one from the Cats Musical and the characters of the anime Black Butler {which I have developed quite a liking to lately}. My sister & I also spoke to Jodelle Ferland {Twilight: Eclipse} and saw Charisma Carpenter {Buffy & Angel} a few meters away from us. We also met & spoke to voice actor Greg Cipes {Kevin Levin of Ben Ten}. I liked going around looking at the comic artists drawing away at their stalls. I also acquired a new doll; Panzy the Pirate created by Pocket full of Posiez, I have been wanting one for years. Depending on what next years is like I may take another trip down.

52 Challenge :: Week 14.

2011-04-09T22:09:00.000+10:00

52 Challenge :: Week 14 :: Golden Wings Brooch
April 3rd - 9th April 2011

The other week I found a little wing and kept it for safe keeping. I was thinking what I could use it for or what to do with it. I thought that today...I'd make it into a brooch surrounded by gold plus little dots & words.

Sucker Punch ::

2011-04-07T16:19:00.002+10:00

Zack Snyder is well known with his action packed films such as Watchmen & 300, and this one doesn't disappoint. Sucker Punch follows Babydoll {Emily Browning} and her conrads Sweet Pea {Abbie Cornish}, Rocket {Jena Malone}, Blondie {Vanessa Hudgens} and Amber {Jamie Chung} around an imaginative world crossed between the harsh reality of the Lennox House for the Mentally Insane.

The 5 girls are set with the quest to gain items to help set them free, each one in easy reach but guarded by things in which they must get around. The actions scenes are filled with giant samurai robots bleeding light, Steam & clockwork powered zombie soilders, blimps & dragons...it has everything.

These scenes swap between the frames in which Babydoll dances; the asylum is transformed into a brothel-esque manner through her eyes. It is a little messy as a whole but gets the story across.

There has been mixed reviews with this film but I personally loved it despite feeling a little lost at times {plus have been waiting almost 1 year for this to show}. The imagery is gorgeously gloomy and of course it isn't a Snyder film with out the slow motion special effects.

Sucker Punch is now showing around Australia so check your local Cinema for screening times.

NYW launch today!

2011-04-04T21:17:00.000+10:00

Today was the National Youth Week Launch in Bendigo at Allan's Walk which was put together by Youth Development at the City of Greater Bendigo & YO Bendigo. There was popcorn, fairy floss, cupcakes, music, photography exhibitions and polaroids. I had loads of fun seeing people I knew and with mum also. I loved the carnival/circus feel to it, even the flyers to promote the event were created like a golden ticket.

Exploring ~ Castlemaine State Festival.

2011-04-02T23:35:00.000+11:00

Today I took a trip with mum to view exhibitions & various events happening for the 2011 Castlemaine State Festival which commenced yesterday and runs through till the 10th April.

First stop was the Cascade Print Workshop in Maldon, was a lovely studio and gallery in the bush. The exhibition showing Biting Issues was alsorts of prints depicting cats & dogs. There were some lovely cat prints which I wish I had the money to have purchased. Jeff Gardner {Artist & one creator of the Gallery/Studio} has amazing prints; they were lovely and inspiring.

^ Biting Issues @ Cascade Print Workshop

Next stop was The Hatchery Open Studio where we got to speak to the Artist at work Jenn White which was interesting and saw woodblock engravings she had been creating that morning. I now want a little studio in the backyard.

After the stop in Maldon we then headed to the heart of the festival; Castlemaine which wasn't far down the road. Before venturing around at some things, we had cake & hot chocolate at the Theatre Royal, the cake was scrumptious! Tangy Apricot with Cream & Chocolate cake with Ice-Cream!

^ Yummy!

^ The Theatre Royal

Ventured up and around a lovely street filled with rustic, boutiques and The Restorers Barn which was so over welming due to the amount of things inside, also easy to get stuck in there for hours. As well as a book shop {which I also get stuck in} which I purchased the lovely book The Gradual Demise of Phillipa Finch by Emma Magenta {I adore her work}.

^ Parasols that are now on my wishlist

Above the book shop is the Castlemaine Contemporary Space {CASPA} which you enter via a laneway. It was very obscure also. The exhibition on was by Ben Laycock who is also one of the Directors of the space.

^ Stoneman's Bookroom

We located one of the altered couches of COUCH, which was quite interesting! Throughout the day I saw various people of all ages sitting on it reading the festival program.

Then headed over to the Meet The Press printmaking talk & demonstration by printmaker Rhyll Plant, she had a little press demonstrating wood block prints...its name was Elvis.

^ Rhyll Plant demonstrating & talking about techniques

The Midland Hotel was the next on our list for all things textiles, I had never been here before and it was in such a great and different atmosphere. The Midland is home to Fashion Central which is a range of various fashion shops including Habadash which is filled with vintage, antique buttons, bits & bobs. Shall be taking another visit there for sure. There is also a cafe' & bar as well accomadation which looks lovely to stay in. The Midland was also showing an exhibition by Rhonda Matinez. Gorgeous embellished and decorated clothing on mannequins and elaborate pieces on display. Lots of lace, tulle', ruffles and sequins.

^ A close up of one of Rhonda Martinez's pieces

^ A close up of the back of the skirt of a Burlesque inspired piece by Rhonda Martinez

Unfortunatly I can't seem to locate a site for her and there wasn't any flyers {if I find something I shall post it up here}. After all the excitement and inspiring things we saw we headed home to have a hot cup of tea & to take in the day. My bed is now covered in flyers, business cards and exhibition price sheets. I only saw a small slither of what the festival has happening but it was good.

52 Challenge :: Week 13.

2011-04-02T22:35:00.000+11:00

52 Challenge :: Week 13 :: Vintage Dairy Brooch
March 27th - 2nd April 2011

I always feel lately I am running out of time to create these brooches, but end up pulling something out of a hat in the end. I found little round carboard Dairy bits {at a renovators warehouse} & thought it would be interesting on a brooch. A bit of cutting here and there, finishing with some wool that matches the coloring.

NYW launch :: Bendigo.

2011-03-29T11:13:00.001+11:00

National Youth Week begins around the country April 1st through to the 10th and in Bendigo the NYW launch is held on Monday 4th, April. With fairy floss, popcorn, music & cupcakes plus YO on the GO photography exhibit, NYW poster entries, Filmstrip Project on display and the Art Room Launch it shall be a fun filled afternoon. Head to YO Bendigo for more info.

Monday 4th April
4pm - 5.30pm

Allan's Walk, Bendigo

Market Day.

2011-03-26T20:06:00.000+11:00

Today was The Square Handmade Market at Bendigo Town Hall. After a little rocky start to my day, the rest of it was great. Onsite with me, mum also had a stall with her mixed media fabric books amoung other bits and pieces. Saw many familar faces and friends that came to have a look. Carol, a new friend made at the last market came & also gave us a treat of Harry's Rocky Road {Bendigo based} which was so yum! with a hot cup of tea when finally arriving home. I also did an art swap with the lovely Megan Spencer, a mixed media work by me for one of her Lomo prints which I shall add to my little growing art collection. I look forward to the next market.

52 Challenge :: Week 12.

2011-03-26T00:59:00.000+11:00

52 Challenge :: Week 12 :: Arty Brooch
March 20th - 26th March 2011

I created a few brooches this week for the market, though I thought this one would be this weeks brooch out of the rest. I had tiny paint tubes that were old and hard so used it as the key feature, with the backing to look arty with various paint splatters. The backing shape is also different to the other ones.