Eggs as a canvas

 

This past year, I was asked to embellish 13 very large metal shades the Blue Moon Tavern and Grill, one of the McMenamin properties. I was excited and terrified at the same time!

In preparation, I practiced the envisioned pattern on an egg. This allowed me to work out the spacing of the images and color selection. In addition, egg painting permitted me to keep a piece of my artwork! In this photo you can see the egg and the underside of one of the large enamel shades.

Creating pen and ink drawings on blown eggs really puts me in a magical space. They make great gifts too.

Excited to be working on my book!

I'm working on my new book, "Creating Shades to Remember."

I'm so excited to have a coach./mentor/project manager. Together we've made a timeline and though I may often feel like I'm in the preverbal tunnel, I'm beginning to envision the light at the end of it. 

Here is a tiny taste of what will be in it ... My project manager says this portion should been titled "Tips from a Pro." But I really like "Notes to Self."

Notes to self:

• Measure twice, cut once
• Always take “BEFORE” photos before you begin.
• Disassemble and clean old shades out-of-doors.
• Make sure your frame is balanced and even – if not, fix it first!
• Make sure your fitter actually fits on your chosen lamp harp or socket.
• BEFORE you go to all the work of lining, covering, gimping, beading and
• fringing it!!!
• Keep your eyes open and look at what others are tossing out … you may
• find a treasure.
• Stop Asking "Are we there yet?" It's a waste of time and energy!

Angelique, this one-of-a-kind shade and vintage lamp is still available. List price is $1,600. You can view more of my shade and lamp pieces at the Red Trillium Gallery in Troutdale, Oregon and online at Etsy/SadesToRemember.