Studio Tour 2013 at the Artists Atelier

Studio Tour 2013 at the Artists Atelier

It was a beautiful day yesterday for the last day of the Great Falls Studios Tenth Anniversary Studio Tour–sunny and brisk with the leaves just beginning to turn.

For the second year, I was at the Artists Atelier with 10 other artists–there was such energy and enthusiasm there both days as visitors strolled in and out chatting with the artists. The photo at left shows my painting neighbor Elaine Elinsky explaining her process. My Amber Harvest quilt is in the right foreground, and Fire and Ice is hanging on the wall behind. It was great fun seeing so many familiar faces and meeting some new friends as well over the two days of the tour. Thanks to everyone who came out to see us, chat about art and creativity, and help us celebrate our 10th year over the last two days!

"Mesa" 12x12 Cindy Grisdela 2013

“Mesa” 12×12 Cindy Grisdela 2013

Mesa, one of my new wall pieces mounted on black painted canvas, went to a new home this weekend. I had only just finished it and hadn’t had time to have it professionally photographed, so the image at left is a snapshot. It’s going to join another one of my pieces in this collector’s home–what a nice compliment!

Stitching Demo 2013 Cindy Grisdela

Stitching Demo 2013 Cindy Grisdela

I brought out my sewing machine so I could demonstrate how I add texture to my work freehand, without using a computer program or marking the design out ahead of time. It’s a machine process, but entirely hand driven. Sometimes the demonstration helps to give people a new appreciation of the time that goes into my work. Several visitors suggested that the demonstration piece could be made into a pillow, and I just might do that!

I’m taking time off from the studio today to recharge, but I’ll be back in a day or two to start getting ready for the Downtown Art Festival in Gainesville, Florida on November 16 and 17. This show is in my hometown, and I’m looking forward to seeing family and friends, as well as making new friends at the Festival. If you’re in the Gainesville area, I hope you’ll stop by to say hello.

And in December, I’ll be part of the Three Days with the Artists event at Hidden Springs Farm December 6,7,8 and the Great Falls Studios Holiday Show in a NEW LOCATION at the Education Center at Wolf Trap on December 14 and 15.