Bohemian Spirit Designs jewelry from Terrina Russell-Cook captivates

Photo courtesy Terrina Russell-Cook

Artist Terrina Russell-Cook creates music and jewelry with equal ease. Her Bohemian Spirit Designs bring delight to jewelry lovers with her use of curves and movement, while her music belts out the blues with feelings from the soul.

Russell-Cook has been making jewelry since 1974, when she created puka shell necklaces and earrings to sell to tourists along Daytona Beach. Her love for “all things sparkly” began even earlier, as her late grandmother allowed the young Terrina free access to play in her jewelry box.

“I still get just as much of a thrill putting sparkly things together now as I did then,” she says with a laugh.

Many of her pieces hearken to her native American heritage. Her great-grandfather was a member of the Blackfoot tribe. Turquoise stones and traditional motifs honor his memory.

Other pieces feature swirling copper or silver, eliciting images of nature on the move. The evocative shapes have become something of a signature form for her. “For some reason I’m drawn to water and movement, so I try to incorporate as much of that in my work as possible,” Russell-Cook observes.

Although she has a great deal of experience with making jewelry, she continues to learn other techniques. Most recently, she took a course in metalworking from fellow artist Patricia Hart. Now she is expanding her skill set with repoussé, an ancient metalworking technique which involves pressing a relief design into softened metal from the reverse side.

Two outlets in New York and two in the south keep her busy with jewelry-making, but she still finds time to stand up for the creative community. She explains that what artists create has value as an original and takes hours of work. The end result may share some visual similarities with mass-produced products in Big Box stores but the quality of the handmade items soars far above the mundane.

Any conversation with Russell-Cook includes a great deal of humor and laughter. Her delight in life and her joy in her work shines through even serious discussions of technique or style. She admits to sometimes falling in love with a piece she has created and feeling a reluctance in parting with it.

Look for Terrina Russell-Cook’s work at Artists’ Galleries de Juneau in Olde Towne Slidell, LA. Her Bohemian Spirit Designs will inspire.

Originally appeared 6/8/2016 at http://www.examiner.com/article/bohemian-spirit-designs-jewelry-from-terrina-russell-cook-captivates

Cartoonist Andy Childress creates worlds of fun with BubbaWorld Comix

“Justice League. Aquaman speaking,” were the words coming through the telephone headset as Mississippi cartoonist Andy Childress of BubbaWorld Comix answered his phone for this interview, setting the offbeat tone for the conversation. Scheduled to appear at Southern GeekFest in Hattiesburg MS April 2-3, Childress brings a whimsical approach to the world.

He says he has been a cartoonist all of his life “whether I knew it or not.”

“I started drawing when I was one. I got interested in the Sunday funnies when I was three. When I was six, I realized ‘there’s words that go with this.’” He had a lot of fun imitating his favorite comic strips and comic books. Somewhere in the ninth grade, he says he “accidentally” created his first character in art class.

“…I couldn’t think of anything to do for Easter, so I drew the Easter bunny.” His teacher told him it looked like a chicken in a floppy eared hat. “Don’t tell him. He thinks he’s the Easter bunny,” Childress replied and Herman the psychotic chicken was born. Herman turns thirty-two this year, an enduring tribute to young imagination.

Childress has created a comic line about Redneck Time Lords, which pokes loving fun at the Dr. Who mystique. Other series titles include “Mississippi Swamp Dragons” and “Going Batty.” His cartoons show up on his website, BubbaWorld Comix, and in two books (to date) available through Lulu.

Roscoe P. Kramer (left) and Andy Childress share pizza

He conducts interviews for YouTube with a big monster puppet, Roscoe P. Kramer, “…because who’s gonna say ‘No’ to a puppet?” As he visits conventions, he records the cheery sessions to advertise both his favorite characters and himself.

At Southern Geekfest, Childress will have original artwork for sale at his artist’s table, as well as his books. Visitors who already have his books can bring them for autographs and doodles. Roscoe will be there, too, enchanting visitors with his toothy smile.

In addition to his original artwork and convention appearances, Childress is available to draw caricatures for events. He also can work from photos by email for caricatures.

Originally appeared 03/24/206 at http://www.examiner.com/article/cartoonist-andy-childress-creates-worlds-of-fun-with-bubbaworld-comix

Artist Len Heatherly preserves the art of the South in oils

Award-winning artist Len Heatherly began painting watercolors just before Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. Since then, he has switched to oils as his primary medium and he uses them to bring the hidden beauty of everyday scenes to life. His paintings are rich in the detail of living and the world around us.

Originally from Birmingham, Heatherly’s Alabama roots show in his touching images of southern life. He doesn’t limit himself on subject matter. Although he acknowledges landscape work is his favorite, he moves from landscapes to people with ease. From the buttercups gracing the Bonnet Carré spillway to dancers celebrating in the street or churchgoers, Heatherly calls on his own travels and experiences for artistic content.

Working on canvases he makes himself allows him to work on a variety of sizes. He’ll often create a smaller canvas for a study of the subject prior to beginning the larger piece. The study may become a valuable piece on its own.

His business philosophy is based on “connection,” allowing his art to make a connection with a potential buyer. When someone asks him how he sells his art, he has a ready answer.

“The word ‘sales’ never comes up until there’s a connection,” he notes. Once a connection is made, then he will discuss the selling details. “People may go away and not come back for a month to buy it,” he adds, but he allows them the time to come to the decision on their own. His art does the selling for him.

He belongs to art groups in several areas, including the Mississippi Gulf Coast and south Louisiana. With each organization averaging two shows a year, he has plenty of venues for displaying and offering his work. By his calculations, he appears in eight or ten shows a year.

In addition, his work hangs in Artists’ Galleries de Juneau in Slidell and another gallery in Covington. He also participates in local art fairs.

Heatherly and wife Wylene have lived in a quiet subdivision on the water in Slidell since 2000.

Originally appeared 11/05/2015 at http://www.examiner.com/article/artist-len-heatherly-preserves-the-art-of-the-south-oils

Southern artist Cindy Bachemin transports the wild to canvas through her work

In the company of her Saint Bernard dog, south Mississippi artist Cindy Bachemin shares her world through photography and art. Her dramatic pieces bring viewers into the mystery of the swamp and the drama of wildlife with acrylics painted from her photographs. Her works hang in Artists’ Galleries de Juneau in Slidell, LA’s Olde Towne.

Bachemin often works on 16” X 20” canvases, although she occasionally paints larger pieces. Her studio is filled with a variety of subjects, including New Orleans images and views of the swamp. With inspirations such as the “Welcome to the Swamp” greeting of a television show.

She’s been painting since her young days, with early classes in a local art gallery in her hometown of New Orleans. Her interests morphed from painting fantasy and album covers as a teen in her “hippie” days to surrealism to professional photography. Now that her children are grown, she finds herself with time to return to her earlier love of painting.

With experiments in graphic arts, and imaginative depictions of natural subjects, Bachemin refuses to limit herself to a single mode. She adds touches such as window frames to bring new dimensions to her subject.

She is planning a dream painting depicting an entire swamp town of people and buildings. The townspeople will be shown going about their normal business in the thriving little community. Her vision will fill a larger canvas with the town and people, all within the setting of moss-draped swamp.

Her husband says he's constantly amazed at the beauty of her paintings. He serves as her cheerleader and support system, encouraging her through her efforts.

Bachemin plans to enter local art competitions and shows as well as hanging in the Slidell gallery. Her goal now is to get her name more visible to the public. Look for her work at Artists’ Galleries de Juneau and art competitions. You’ll be glad you found her striking paintings.

Originally appeared 09/02/2015 at http://www.examiner.com/article/southern-artist-cindy-bachemin-transports-the-wild-to-canvas-through-her-work

Mississippi Welcome Centers connect past, present, future

The past meets the future in elegant style at the Welcome Centers scattered along the Interstate Highways in Mississippi. Designed and furnished to resemble traditional antebellum homes, the centers offer tourist information, hot coffee, clean restrooms and Southern hospitality while celebrating the rich traditions of Mississippi.

 

At thirteen locations ringing the state, travelers can stop in for maps and brochures about Mississippi’s attractions while stretching their legs and reviving their spirits. At the same time, they can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area from staff members knowledgeable about the state’s offerings. Questions about local shopping and dining mix with requests for information about historic sites and contemporary events as the staff welcomes a steady stream of visitors.

Cindy Poland, supervisor of the Pearl River County facility on Interstate 59 at Picayune, credits her job with opening her personality.

“I used to be an introvert,” she says. “Meeting and greeting people every day has helped me open up and be comfortable speaking to others.” She enjoys meeting visitors from all over the world and helping them find what they need in Mississippi.

Each person who enters the building receives a warm “Welcome to Mississippi,” and the offer of a cup of complimentary coffee. Folks in need of a restroom get pointed in the proper direction. A quick request for the visitor to sign the guest book (anonymously, if they prefer) and provide a zip code allows the center to track the origins of their clientele. Some folks even provide the reason for their trip, whether it be business or pleasure, to a Mississippi destination or somewhere beyond the state borders.

In addition to the standard variety of brochures and maps, the centers provide seasonal décor and monthly displays celebrating the contributions of local talents. The themes cover the tapestry of Mississippi treasures. January focuses on Food; February looks at History; Arts and Literature star in March. April goes Outdoors while May celebrates the state’s rich Music heritage. June shares Fun Things for Children to Do in Mississippi; July brings Festivals and Fairs; August promotes Free in Mississippi, free things to do throughout the state. September tees off with a Golf theme; October, Agritourism; November, Shopping and December finds the centers decked out in seasonal finery to honor Holiday Happenings.

The monthly themes add to the basic charm of each location and make the Mississippi Welcome Centers a worthwhile destination even for those travelers who don’t need a cup of coffee or a rest stop.

Originally appeared 03/07/2015 at http://www.examiner.com/article/mississippi-welcome-centers-connect-past-present-future

Photographic gems show natural beauty in Crosby Arboretum exhibit

Works by Abita Springs photographer Lana Gramlich adorn Picayune’s Crosby Arboretum through May 31. Gramlich’s nature photography hangs in the expanded gift shop area, with matted prints available for sale. The exhibition opened with a reception on March 7.

Gift shop and customer service manager Kimberly Johnson spotted a visitor walking around with a big camera, a very big camera, and struck up a conversation. The visitor was Gramlich and the connection was made. Now some of the photos she took that day hang around the room.

Many of the images on display show aspects of the Crosby Arboretum, joined by photos of other natural treasures. A stunning view of the Pinecote Pavilion dominates one wall of the exhibit. Gramlich has donated the print to the Arboretum for permanent display.

Gramlich’s award-winning photography spans a number of years. She began taking photos as reference material for her art, but realized the photos themselves were the art. Her work has appeared in numerous books and magazines. Her photographs echo her philosophy of finding the serenity in nature and capturing it for others to enjoy.

Working in both landscape and still life formats, she shares the tranquil beauty of places like the Crosby Arboretum with those who can’t get there in person. Her wildlife shots bring the savage beauty of creatures such as alligators into focus for viewers from the safety of a print.

The Crosby Arboretum celebrates the diversity of life in the Pearl River Drainage Basin. With this elegant photography exhibit the celebration moves into the fine arts realm. The gift shop features nature themed works by local artisans. Gramlich’s photographs make a natural addition to this natural gem tucked away in Picayune. Admission to the exhibit is free to both members and nonmembers, with admission to the Arboretum.

The Crosby Arboretum

370 Ridge Rd.

Picayune, MS 39466

Originally appeared 03/09/2015 at http://www.examiner.com/article/photographic-gems-show-natural-beauty-crosby-arboretum-exhibit

Art exhibits to enjoy during your visit to Mardi Gras

Although visitors come to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, there’s a lot more to the Crescent City than parades and partying. Take time to enjoy the museums and free venues for art around town for a delightful change of pace. Beyond the art galleries in the French Quarter, visitor can find many artistic treasures in the city. Check venue hours during the hectic days of the Carnival season to avoid disappointment. Here are a few to get you started.

Jackson Square

The artists surrounding Jackson Square present a colorful introduction to the New Orleans art scene. The eclectic genres available assure something for everyone. Browse along fence to see the work of up to two hundred artists, operating on licenses granted by the city. Looking is free, and visitors might find the perfect piece to purchase as a souvenir of the visit.

Woldenberg Park

Across Decatur Street from the square, climb the steps to the Riverwalk and turn right along the path to visit another free venue, Woldenberg Park, sixteen acres of green space and art leading toward Canal Street. The park operates under the auspices of the Audubon Foundation which also operates the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, among other attractions. Sculptures and mobiles dot the park, giving art lovers an open-air viewing experience along the bank of the Mississippi River. Watch river traffic glide by for a glimpse of reality art in motion.

Dutch Alley

Tucked away behind the buildings lining Decatur Street at Dumaine, a circular fountain hosts a band in silhouette. The characters captured there welcome visitors to Dutch Alley, a combination of open-air art exhibit and art gallery. Step into the alley and meet Jacques the Butcher by Eric Kaposta, who greets visitors entering the Alley.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Go beyond the boundaries of the French Quarter and into the Warehouse District to enjoy art created by a wide spectrum of southern artists. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art boasts multiple floors of paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography and installation art. The reasonable admission fee coupled with the variety of artists makes the O an excellent destination for any art lover. The Confederate Museum next door will interest history buffs.

Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans

Stroll across the street from the Ogden Museum to reach the Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans and another reason to love the Camp Street museum corridor. Park once for access to both art centers, plus the National World War II Museum.

New Orleans Museum of Art and Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Venture out of the French Quarter and Central Business District for a visit to a New Orleans legacy, the New Orleans Museum of Art. Although the traditional museum facility requires an admission fee, the stunning open air Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA does not. More than sixty sculptures dot the peaceful garden, including the iconic Hercules the Archer which stood at the main entrance to the museum for decades.

Originally appeared on 02/24/14 at http://www.examiner.com/article/art-exhibits-to-enjoy-during-your-visit-to-mardi-gras

The work behind that beautiful piece of glass - artist Clair Etzold

Glass artist Clair Etzold heats things up in her studio as she creates beautiful and functional fused glass items for sale to appreciative customers. She markets her fused glass creations, as well as glass mosaics, at The Art House Artist Cooperative, part of the Ocean Springs Art Association in the Gulf Coast town of Ocean Springs, Miss. The multi-step process she performs yields one-of-a-kind treasures of shimmering glass.

Etzold’s kiln provides the heat necessary to fuse individual pieces of glass into a single piece of art. The time and temperature determine how completely the pieces will fuse. This decision influences the texture of the finished product. Some are heated until completely smooth, while others keep a bit of the original texture of the components by undergoing a different combination of heat and time duration.

A variety of tools allow Etzold to cut the shapes she needs for her project from sheets of colored glass. By combining varied shapes and colors, she can create glass sculpture with different textures and patterns. A grid beneath the work area catches small shards of glass and makes the surface safer to work on.

A single sheet of glass can contribute its color to a number of finished pieces. Etzold began working with fused glass in 2009 and loves the variety of effects she achieves. All of the glass used in a single project must have the same COE, or coefficient of expansion, or the finished piece will have weak spots and may break apart. All of the parts must react to the kiln’s heat at the same rate for best results.

 Once scored and cut to width, a colored glass bar is ready for trimming to the appropriate length for the product that Etzold envisions. She has complete control over the size and shape of the components and can use tools such as these running pliers to fine tune the piece with diagonal as well as straight lines.

Large circular scores take place on specialized cutter with an adjustable cutting arm. By setting the desired radius, Etzold can score larger or smaller circular parts for her project.

Shaping forms stand on a shelf in her studio, ready to assist Etzold in shaping her pieces. The first fusion joins the component parts, with the possibility of a second fusing to add additional texture or detail. The final, or slumping, process gives shape to the flat fused glass.

Etzold places a flat square of fused glass into the kiln, positioned over the slumping form. As the kiln’s temperature softens the glass, the piece will take on the shape of the form and become a decorative dish.

The finished product can meet several uses. Always suitable as a straightforward art piece, the finished projects can also serve as beautiful dishes, business card holders or nearly any other small container need the purchaser may have.

Different temperature and lengths of time in the kiln result in different fusions. This open bowl serves as a prototype of for a tack-fused piece that Etzold has since reproduced in various color combinations.

Not every piece comes out of the kiln as Etzold expected. This bowl developed a bubble that changed the lines and look completely, but still offers a stunning piece of glass sculpture. As part of The Art House Artist Cooperative, Etzold’s works become available to Ocean Springs visitors and then make their way all over the nation.     

 

Originally published 09/30/2013 at http://www.examiner.com/list/the-work-behind-that-beautiful-piece-of-glass-artist-clair-etzoldt