We've Moved our Blog

Please visit our new blog from our website:

http://www.artnightout.com/blog

March Open House

On Saturday March 14th, Artascope Studios held our third Open House/Church of Craft event for 2009! It was a great time to play here at the Studios! There was a kids birthday party downstairs, a few members working on their mosaic projects, and our fabulous Dye & Batik teacher, Sue Drown-Trout, presented a demo in waxing and dye painting! Sue set up wonderful stations so that all attendees could try out differnt tools for apply wax, including sumi brushes and a jaunting tool. There was even a pre-wax flower design that everyone was able to paint dyes onto, and create fun, colorful, colaborative piece! Some of our visitors brought their friends, coworkers and family with them to explore Artascope!

Our Next Open House/Church of Craft event will be Saturday April 11th! We will be having a free exploration of paper flower making from 10am to 1pm

Learn something new @ Artascope Studios

Looking for a fun way to ride out the rest of winter? Artascope is offering a fabulous line up of workshops and events that are sure to keep a smile on your face, no matter the weather.

Are you are itching to try out something NEW? Or, just looking for a comfortable environment to get artsy? Whatever your creative desire, we have what you want! Join us for a FREE gathering on Saturday March 14th. Bring a project to work on or just take in a demo from Batik artist Sue Drown Trout. Our next round of Artist Series classes start on Monday, March 16th. Try one of our standards like Metalsmithing, Stained Glass, Fine Art Painting, Sewing, or Precious Metal Clay. Or, try something NEW like Needle Felting, Book Binding, Alternative Techniques in Acrylic Painting, Beading, even Dye Painting. Affordably priced, these Artist Series classes are a sure way to keep you engaged and inspired.

Metalsmithing
Here's your chance to learn metalsmithing in a fun, relaxed atmoshpere! Learn how to handle the equipment necessary to create fantastic soldered jewelry. Master the torch, drill, rolling mills, hammers, mandrels, and other tools to create gorgeous rings, bangles and earrings. Great for beginners or returning students. Christina Taylor

Mar 16th thru Apr 20
Mondays (10am to 1pm)



Sewing
Here is your chance to learn how to sew or simply refresh your skills! This class will explore the various elements such as materials and fabrics, stitches and how to create from a pattern. Master the sewing machine while learning how to assemble your fabulous creations! Perfect for learning how to sew or stepping up your sewing skills. Diane Brakeley

Mar 16th thru Apr 20th
Mondays (10am-1pm)


Needle Felting
Learn a modern technique of a classic art form as you investigate the world of wool felting. Using needle felting tools, student will explore dry felting with a colorful array of wool fibers. Create and embellish fabulous works of art that are sure to further inspire you.
Ashley Wernher-Collins

Mar 17th thru Apr 21st
Tuesdays (10am to 1pm)



Metalsmithing
Here's your chance to learn metalsmithing in a fun, relaxed atmoshpere! Learn how to handle the equipment necessary to create fantastic soldered jewelry. Master the torch, drill, rolling mills, hammers, mandrels, and other tools to create gorgeous rings, bangles and earrings. Great for beginners or returning student. Clint Fulkerson

Mar 17th thru Apr 20th
Tuesdays (6-9pm)



Stained Glass
This class is a great way to get started in stained glass. You'll learn the complete copper foil method from start to finish. Create ornaments, panels, and votives. Work from standard patterns or create your own design and then cut, foil, and solder gorgeous glass accents for your home. Gayle Raposa

Mar 18th thru Apr 22nd
Wednesdays (10am-1pm)



Dye Painting
Add a beautiful painterly quailty to your dyed creations! Using soy wax and paintable dyes, enjoy the art of painting on fabric to create beautiful designs. Turn a simple piece of cloth into a masterpiece! Perfect for someone curious about dye painting or for the seasoned artist to try out new methods. Sue Drown-Trout

Mar 19th thru Apr 23rd
Thursdays (10am-1pm)



Book Binding
Books are great containers to hold memories, photos and even be their own works of art! Have you even been curious as to how books are made? Students will get to explore the art of hand sewn books while chosing from delightful papers to cover and bind into ther book. Libby Barrett

Mar 19th thru Apr 23rd
Thursdays (10am-1pm)



Acrylic Painting
This class begins with a thorough introduction to the tools and materials that are used for painting. Explore the basic elements of line, form, color, and composition. Finally, investigate how to create space and light on a two-dimensional place. Great for the first time painter as well as the continuing student. Liz Prescott

Mar 20th thru Apr 24th
Fridays (10am to 1pm)



Alternative Techniques in Acrylic Painting
If you have ever wanted to loosen up your style and explore acrylic paint, this is the class for you! Begin with a thorough introduction to the tools and materials that are used for painting. Find composition elements using color, line or simple forms. Perfect for the novice, or to loosen up the more traditional painter's hand. Matt Owens

Mar 20th thru Apr 24th
Fridays (10am to 1pm)



Precious Metal Clay
Curious about this popular new material? Precious Metal Clay, or PMC, is an intriguing material that has the versatility of clay and the end result of fine silver! Get your ideas ready as you learn the basics of PMC. Develop your confidence as you learn how to prep, roll, cut, stamp and shape your PMC as you experiment with the possibilities! Ann Liller

Mar 21st thru Apr 25th
Saturdays (10am-1pm)

Valentine's Day Card Making Explosion!

Just after 10am, papers were everywhere!  Paper heart confetti dazzled the floors!  And glitter was being shaken over the perfect valentine love quote,  as dozen of people joined us for our Open House Valentine Card Making event, Saturday Feb 14th from 10 to 1.

A heart shaped Thank You for everyone who came!  We had a blast and think you did too!

This was our third year of creative valentine making!  And we had many regulars show up as they made it part of their Valentine's tradition!  

We even set up a mini Hammered Metal demo to give folks a little fun in an Art Night Out™ workshop!  While papers were being tossed to find the perfect piece, you could hear the pounding of hammers and laughter as folk were delighted with their results!  

Every month we will host an Open House!  Bring that project you can't seem to finish for some inspiration, check out our demo of the month, and sometimes, we even have FREE make and takes!    Check back for more upcoming events.

NEXT MONTH: Sat March 14th 10am to 1pm 

We will have a waxing and dyeing demo with Sue Drown-Trout!

Family Fun Private Party

With February dragging out winter, everyone is looking for something fun and inspiring to keep them warm!  Try a Private Party!

Saturday, Feb 7th, a family of 5 joined us for a private part in Hammered Metal, taught by our lovely Betina Clark!  Mom and Dad joined us with their 3 children, the youngest was a bit too little to play with the hammers, but we helped create a fun beading project so that the entire family could have a day of fun!

Hammered Metal Jewelry is a classic Art Night Out™ that everyone loves!  Shaping and forming heavy gauge wire, student can texture their creations using many different types and shapes of hammers.

If you have friends, family or co-workers that are looking for something to inspire them these last few weeks of winter, we are offering a Private Party Special, now through the end of March!  Choose ANY Art Night Out™ class, arrange a group of 5 of more, and you come for free!

It's a great idea to pull a group together and be creative as the snow starts to melt, and encourage us to THINK SPRING!

Fine Art Drawing Fun!

While jewelry making and stained glass are well known Art Night Out classes, we also offer fine art drawing and painting as one day workshops!

Francis Carlier joined us one Saturday to share his love of drawing and phenomenal skills in the medium! Experimental Drawing brought in a range of students who had great curiosity and enthusiasm. Many took the class to learn formally, with no prior experience, and others, to improve their painting skills!

Through the class Francis guided students to explore the depths of their drawing skills. Using rulers, and pencils and other simple tools, everyone was able to gain understanding of what they were seeing in their photographs and still lives to translate onto their paper.

The results were amazing! One student was thrilled that she was able to push herself to draw bigger. Another LOVED how she was able to define a boot with clarity. The students were thrilled with their developped skills and were excited to return home to continue drawing!


It was the perfect afternoon dose of fine art!

Valentine's Open House

Join us Valentine’s Day, Saturday February 14th from 10 am to 1pm as we invite everyone to join us for a card making Valentine extravaganza!

Grab your friends and family and get out of the house and join our card making workshop.

We’ve got great lighting, bright colors, warm cookies and inspiration that'll keep you toasty!

Whether you are looking for a fun valentine’ activity for the family, or need the inspiration to make that fabulous valentine for that someone special, Artacope Studios is the place to be!



Artascope Studios

Valentine's Card Making Workshop

Saturday February 14th

10am to 1pm

FREE!

Inspire yourself with this Journal!

On Monday January 26th, Artascope Studios introduced a new Art Night Out™ workshop, Inspirational Journal. Kim Dubay returned to teach for this one night of fun! Kim is a phenomenal collage artist and rug hooker and often a visiting instructor here. We love when Kim comes to play with us!

With a fabulous new tool for the class, a die cut template for book pages, the class was ready to jump into fun and easy book binding, collage and memory making! Students made their pages out of paper, canvas, cardboard and even fabric and embellished them with their own photos, cool papers, paint and other items from our brilliant collage collection.

One of our long time members, Betsy and her friend , Deb, joined us. Also, Julie and Megan attended, who travelled all the way up from Georgia to create with us! We were excited to have them visit and get a chance to experience an Art Night Out™! I hope they enjoyed all the snow and cold! Catherine, our fearless leader, even stopped by to join in the fun (she’s behind the camera)!

Julie wasted no time spreading out and being inspired! Red is definitely her color!

Betsy made a page dedicated to her granddaughter and proudly shared it with everyone!

It was great to see students excited and sharing their books with each other! We had a great time and loved that such a fun group was able to introduce a new class to Artascope! The next offering of Inspirational Journal is Monday March, 16th from 6 to 9pm.

Artist Series 2009 kick off!

Keeping warm and creative, this round of Artist Series classes includes two Metalsmithing classes, Decorative Painting and Fine Art Acrylic Painting!

In Studio 2, the jewelry studio, Metalsmithing students are learning about the fine skills to create beautiful objects with different techniques, such as soldering, annealing, shaping and creating bezels! Students have really enjoying learning how to set stones as they create fabulous silver rings! Our next session starts Monday March 16th. thru April 20th (10am – 1pm).

Can’t make it in to the morning class? We also offer a Tuesday evening Metalsmithing course with Clint Fulkerson. Clint’s next session starts March 17th thru April 21st (6-9pm)

Upstairs in the Painting Studio, Libby is inspiring her students with bright colors, fun designs and creative techniques in Decorative Painting! Students have begun their exploration by applying their new skills to creating gorgeous painted floor cloths. As this series continues, a few students would like to move their decorative painting talents to chairs, stools and other small pieces of furniture! For Session II, Libby will be taking a small break from Decorative Painting, and instead, share her Book Binding knowledge on Thursdays, starting March 9th thru April 23rd (10am-1pm)

Also, going on for Winter Session I in 2009 for Artist Series, we have Fine Art Acrylic Painting with Liz Prescott. This session we are really excited because it is the first opportunity we have to present the new open line of acrylic paints, acrylic paints that have many qualities of oil paint, and the students are loving them!

The next round of Artist Series start up Monday March 16th! We are offering Monday AM Metals with Christina Taylor, Tuesday PM Metals with Clint Fulkerson. Ashley Wernher-Collins explores Needlefelting with us and Liz Prescott shares more of her love of painting with Fine Art Acrylic Painting. Unlock secrets of Stained Glass with Gayle Rapos OR learn Dye Painting with Suzanne Drown-Trout. Ann Liller joins us for Precious Metal Clay (PMC). Libby Barrett puts on her Book Binding hat and introducing a new class to our Artist Series workshop, Alternative Techniques in Acrylic painting with Matt Owens!

Creating Needle Felted Ornaments

Just before the Holidays kicked into full gear, new Artascope teacher, Ashley Wernher-Collins shared her love and skills in needle felting! Students spent the evening creating their own Felted Ornaments!


Chosing from delicious colors of wool rovings and fun fibers to accents, this new class rocked in the season! Ashley taught students about the different types of wool roving and touched base on the different techniques to felt with wool. Needle Felting tools in hard, with their colorful selection of wool chosen, everyone had a blast!


Check out some of the fabulous ornaments that the students made! They were super creative and colorful. The snowman was great inspiration for some snow creations in the days that followed!



Interested in learning more about needle felting? Deadra will be teaching Felted Critters Saturday January 3rd from 2 to 6pm, spaces are filling up fast!

Happy New Years!

Fun Handmade Gifts While Supporting the Community

Artascope’s 3rd Annual Holiday Show and Sale kicked off December 12th with many new and inspiring additions!

Wrapping to Feed the Community!
Three of our neighborhood girls were invited to share their card-making and wrapping skills! All of the money collected went directly to the South Portland Food Pantry. They made adorable cards and envelopes made from old books and magazines. And anyone who needed their gifts wrapped, could be gift wrapped in style! Everyone was thrilled to have their treasures wrapped. Thanks gals!


Also new this year was the Silent Auction to benefit the Community Crisis Ministries Fund of South Portland and Cape Elizabeth. With over 40 items donated by local Artists, when the Auction wrapped up Sunday Dec 21st, over $1,300 was raised to help those in need! Great job everyone! Thank you for your goods and your bids!

We hope you are still enjoying your Holiday Season! During this vacation week, we are open! Our Holiday Sale will remain up through the end of the year and our new schedule is ready! Treat yourself to some creative R & R in ’09!

Happy Holidays!

Artist Spotlight-Suzanne Kiertianis and Judy Babin's Show in CT

Suzanne Kiertianis, Artascope Studios fantastic manager, and Judy Babin, one of our fabulously talented stewards and teacher, were featured artist at the Guilford Free Library in Guilford CT in November. Their jewelry exhibit was up all month and featured their work in a beautiful enclosed case! This was their 3rd annual showing at the library. Both Judy and Suzanne are Connecticut natives and have a strong following back in their home state. Their show was well received and they were both able to make it down to meet and greet the show goers.

Suzanne and Judy will both be showing their work at our upcoming Artascope Holiday Show and Sale this Friday, Dec 12th. Judy will be showcasing her gorgeous silver work and Suzanne will have a taste of her jewelry talents with some other great items, such as handmade cards and prints. So when are you coming by to see their work? You can check out Judy Babin's work at http://www.judybdesigns.org/, but I would highly recommend seeing it up close, so plan on adding us to your holiday weekend plans. Suzanne is always there to show you around and give you a sampling of her latest endeavours!

Gift Certificates and our Well Stock Art Store

Gift Certificates
We know how hard it is to pick out the perfect gift for your crafty friends and family, so why not purchase a Gift Certificate from Artascope Studios that they can use towards Workshops, Supplies and Artisan Goods. Try one out for $25, $50 and $100. Gift certificates are also available in class amounts, such as an Artist Series, ArtEscape! and even Memberships! Treat someone you love to an inspiring night out filled with creativity.

Do you know someone who has been wanting to take one of our Art Night Out™ class? Give them the gift of Inspiration! Gift certificates can also be used in our supply store and even in the Gallery-filled with handmade goods by local Artists!

Artascope Art Store
Does someone on your list LOVE to make things? While we offer supplies to supplement our classes, we also have books, magazines, kits and other items to settle that creative outlet that is on your shopping list. Check out the fun art supplies that filled the store! From beads and findings, to paints and brushes, to mosaics and glass, and even collage and fiber arts materials. There is even some Gocco materials - while supplies last! You are sure to find something special to inspire the ones you love!

Tis the Season! Wire Wrapped Ornaments and other Holiday Classes

'Tis the Season! Can you hear the holiday tunes at every turn....it's Christmas time again. Suzanne got in the holiday mood with a Wire Wrapped Ornament class! What a fun idea to make your own ornaments for your tree.

Bette is showing off her two ornamental creations. She even played with beads and fabric to finish her work. She will be using these great decorations to adorn a few packages this Christmas. What a great way to make your gift giving a personal touch!

There is lots of time this month to come and try your hand at a new craft. Maybe something you could proudly place under the tree?

How about our FELTED ORNAMENT with Ashley next Monday night, December 8th from 6-9 PM? You will create these darling ornaments to adorn gifts, your tree or even decorate your home! Learn techniques of needle felting as you embellish with wool roving, beads, ribbons and small charms. You will make 2 ornaments and the cost is $65. Sounds like a fun time!

What about a MINI FOLDED BOOK to put some of your favorite memories from the past year to give to a loved one this holiday season? Pat will be teaching this great class next Thursday, the 11th from 6-9 PM. This mini-book is a simple and easy, no-bind book! Learn cutting and folding techniques to create this fabulous miniature! For only $35, it's a holiday bargain for sure!

Please check out all of our current listings at http://www.artnightout.com/dec2008.htm and remember you can always purchase a gift certificate for your crafty someone!

Artascope Studio Holiday Show Stars

Suzanne Drown is one of our batik specialist at Artascope Studios. Long time steward and teacher at Artascope, Suzanne also runs her full time business, Sunfire Batiks. Using the ancient process of batiking, Suzanne Drown creates colorful and unique images for framed artwork, scarves, pillows, prints, pins and cards. She is very well known for her beautiful work all over Maine and has quite a busy schedule of shows throughout the year. We are excited that she will be ending her busy crafting season with us. You can learn more about her work at http://www.sunfirebatiks.com/ .

Diane Brakeley, owner of Della Mano Designs, is a popular teacher at Artascope Studios. Diane has also had a lasting relationship with our studio as steward and teacher. She is primarily a fiber artist, using fabrics and fibers in different ways to enhance wearable art. Diane also have an aversion to throwing anything away (her Mom survived the Great Depression) so she has branched off into found object jewelry. She loves giving things a second chance, so you’ll find her recycling most anything. Always unique, stylish and fun, Diane's work is definitely work a second look. So come check her out this December.

Artascope Studio's 3rd Annual Holiday Show and Sale Excitement

The Holiday Buzz
As we watch the thermometer dip and the last of the leaves falling off bare branches, we can sense that winter is on its way. And with this arctic chill approaching, so is all the excitement of the holiday season! This year Thanksgiving seems to be coming a little late on November 27th. But no matter, there is so much to celebrate!

Here are Artascope Studios, we are gearing up for our Annual Holiday Show and Sale. With over 20 artists ready to share their works, this will be a sale to remember. In the next few weeks, I will be highlighting the artist participating in our yearly event to give you a taste of all the treasures you will find here at 352 Cottage Rd. So make sure to stop by this December and feast your eyes on our beautiful, artistic bounty! Something for everyone!

ArtEscape Weekend- All Tied Up!

Recycled Necktie

Artascope was up to our necks in ties a few weekends ago. Diane Brakeley taught her Recycled Necktie ArtEscape Weekend to a very excited group of students. Each student learned how to weave a chair seat, make headbands and even skirts with a collection of some pretty cool silk neckties.

Everyone had a blast working on their chairs! A balance of simple sewing, good color palettes mixes and a few tricks up their sleeves...their chairs were phenomenal! Talk about a weekend to remember. Check out the great photos we took over the weekend.

Think you would like to try out one of our fabulous weekends? What are you doing November 21-23rd? Here's our offerings for you! Rug Hooking with Special Guest Teacher: Kim Dubay
Just like knitting, rug hooking is back! In this class you’ll learn the basics of how to hook rugs. Students will be encouraged to start with a smaller project; a pillow, wall hanging or purse, and will use this project to learn the process from start to finish. Students will also be taught edge binding techniques and how to properly care for your finished piece.
$175 class / plus materials kit
Pre-register$20 non-refundable deposit

Metalsmithing with Christina Taylor
Here’s your chance to learn metalsmithing in a fun, relaxed atmoshpere! Learn how to handle the equipment necessary to create fantastic silver jewelry. Master the torch, drill, rolling mills, hammers, mandrels, and other tools to create gorgeous rings, bangles and earrings. Great for beginners or returning students.

$175 class / plus materials kit
Pre-register$20 non-refundable deposit

http://www.artnightout.com/artescape.htm

Kid's Art Party-Tie Dye Fun!

Tie-Dye Kid's Art Party!

What a great way to celebrate your birthday with your favorite friends! Sue Drown Trout taught a wonderful Kid's Art Birthday Party at Artascope Studios a few weeks back. Each partygoer created their own design that they drew on their tees with wax after creating the final design on paper. Sue taught them how to dye the decorated shirts in fabric dye, twisting and dipping to create the "tie-dye" effect. Talk about a cool birthday party favor to take home and wear!

The group worked hard on their special shirts while having a ton of fun. There were cake to eat and presents to open at the end of this birthday event.

So when you are planning your children's next birthday event...why not consider our talented staff and great location for one unforgettable party. Check us out at http://www.artnightout.com/parties.htm

Crochet Wire, Sewn Jewelry and Sea Glass Class Reviews

I am sure you have figured out by now that our Metalsmith Studio is a very busy place here at Artascope Studios. Jewelry of all kinds is constantly being introduced in our classes which makes us so unique with our offerings. Here is what we produced over just the past few weeks.

Crochet Wire Necklace
Suzanne Kiertianis taught a Crochet Wire Necklace Class as part of our Art Night Out Program. Her students learned the basics of crochet, applied it to wire and learned how to add beads as a way to make fun, unique necklaces! Suzanne used both 28gauge and 26g wire, depending on the students. Her students took the class to create some handmade Christmas present. I think the recipients of these fantastic necklaces will not be disappointed.

Sewn Metal Jewelry
Betina Clark was back in the studio last week teaching her Sewn Metal Jewelry Class. Like always, her students created some fantastic results. Our photos show one of her students putting on the final touches on her gorgeous pendant. Wonder if she's been wearing that one around town yet.

Drilled Sea Glass Pendant
Drill baby drill!(I just couldn't resist) Lynne Holland was very busy at her Art Night Out Sea Glass Pendant class, teaching the students how to drill into sea glass and create beautiful personal pendants. Here are a few examples of their fun and colorful pendants

Late Fall Artist Series start soon!

It's time to start planning your holiday shopping....maybe it will include some handmade gifts? There is nothing like giving a gift from your heart-made by your hands for someone special in your life. So why not consider trying out one of our Artist Series Classes to start making a few gifts...maybe even a little something for yourself! All of the Artist Series run for 6 weeks and will take us through mid December. The cost is $175 per session and the choices are extremely broad and inviting. Please feel free to sign up after being enticed by this blog to sign up today at http://www.artnightout.com/artistseries.htm. We look forward to sharing a few special hours with you soon!

Wireworking with Ann Liller
Nov 2 - Dec 7
Sundays 10am to 1pm
If you have a desire to add wire working to your beaded jewelry… this is the class for you! This intensive explores all types of creative ways that you can work with wire! What type of pliers? What gauge? Dead soft wire or hard? Learn important tips of wireworking … all while you create wondrous wire worked creations!

Decorative Painting with Libby Barrett
Nov 3 - Dec 8
Mondays 10am to 1pm

This class is guaranteed to ignite your artistic desires. Whether your taste is whimsical, modern, or classic you’ll enjoy creating vibrant art to customize your home. Learn the fundamentals of preparing surfaces for paint and creating a durable finish as you create art for your floors, table and walls! Great for beginners or seasoned painters!

Metalsmithing with Christina Taylor
Nov 3 - Dec 8
Mondays 10am to 1pm

Here’s your chance to learn metalsmithing in a fun, relaxed atmosphere! Learn how to handle the equipment necessary to create fantastic soldered jewelry. Master the torch, drill, rolling mills, hammers, mandrels, and other tools to create gorgeous rings, bangles and earrings. Great for beginners or returning students.

Stained Glass with Gayle Raposa
Nov 4 - Dec 9
Tuesdays 10am to 1pm

This class is a great way to get started in stained glass. You’ll learn the complete copper foil method from start to finish. Create ornaments, panels, and votives. Work from standard patterns or create your own design and then cut, foil, and solder gorgeous glass accents for your home.

Metalsmithing with Clint Fulkerson
Nov 4 - Dec 9
Tuesdays 6 to 9pm

Here’s your chance to learn metalsmithing in a fun, relaxed atmoshpere! Learn how to handle the equipment necessary to create fantastic soldered jewelry. Master the torch, drill, rolling mills, hammers, mandrels, and other tools to create gorgeous rings, bangles and earrings. Great for beginners or returning students.

Dye Painting with Sue Drown-Trout
Nov 5 - Dec 18
Thursdays 10am to 1pm

Add a beautiful painterly quality to your dyed creations! Using soy wax and paintable dyes, enjoy the art of painting on fabric to create beautiful designs. Turn a simple piece of cloth into a masterpiece! Perfect for someone curious about dye painting or for the seasoned artist to try out new methods.

Sewn Beading with Suzanne Kiertianis
Nov 6 - Dec 11
Fridays 10am to 1pm

Curious about what to do with those tiny beads? This class will explore the various techniques of sewn beading. You'll learn the basic techniques such as: peyote, herringbone, spirals and cabaret. Develop your own style with these fun stitches! Create unique bracelets, necklaces and even pendants that will catch everyone's attention.

Hammered Metals Happenings

Betina Clark is know for her fantastic jewelry offerings at Artascope Studios and last week's Hammered Metals class was no exception. Suzanne was shoot a few images from the class and was able to captured the teacher-student interplay that happens in one our dynamic Art Night Out Classes.

Betina covers the basics on designing with wire, wire wrapping and hammering their pieces to perfection. There's always a little chatter mixed in with the musical hammer sounds that fill the metalsmithing studio for a 3 hour class to remember.

Bette shows us her fun creation! She had taken the Mosaic Table class with Laurie Spugnradi earlier in the fall and loved her experience at Artascope Studios to much that she couldn't wait to come back! Glad she is branching out and trying new things. That's what it is all about around here.

Diane, one of Betina's students, has been visiting Maine until mid fall and decided to try out some of our offerings. Diane found us during our End of Summer Sale and has been having a blast with the studio! Our last image is of Maureen works hard on her hammered metal jewelery. She is an excellent local artist and one of our participants in the End of Summer Sale.

Chilly October Art Night Out Offerings

So many of us are fighting the urge to turn on the heat and starting beating that cold that enters our homes. Days are getting shorter, but the nights are calling you to come out and celebrate Autumn with a new and exciting art project. So what do you say?

Here's the list of exciting Art Night Out offerings for the rest of the month. This 3-4 hour class settings is a great way to find your inner artist, make some new friends and do something special for yourself. Click on this link to sign up! http://www.artnightout.com/oct2008.htm

Thursday Oct 23rd 6-9pm

BATIK TABLE RUNNER with Suzanne Drown-Trout
Design your own charming table runner while learning about the batik method of wax resist. Create your own pattern, wax it to your fabric and chose from our selection of dyes. You will be thrilled to show off your new piece of home decor! $70

SEWN METAL JEWELRY with Betina Clark
Try out different hammers, stamps, and master the rolling mill while learning about basic drilling techniques. Then, turn your textured metals and accent beads into a wonderful design that is sewn together! Makes one pendant or pair of earrings. $75

Saturday Oct 25th 2-6pm

EXPERIMENTAL DRAWING with Lori Knight With the use of simple drawing aids you can transform any photograph into a drawing that is warm, expressive, and uniquely yours! Bring your photo or image of choice to inspire your drawing! $45

Monday Oct 27th 6-9pm

FABRIC COLLAGE with Ann Liller
This class offers an unconventional approach to collage. Using fabric pieces and top-stitching, you’ll create a work of art of your own design. Whether you choose a figurative or abstract motif, you’ll love the playful experience of “drawing with fabric”. $45

HOT GLASS JEWELRY with Gayle Raposa
Come and learn the secrets of glass fusing while creating gorgeous pieces of jewelry! Layer pieces of radiant glass to create pendants, earrings or window ornaments! The colors will inspire you and your finished piece will excite you! $85

Thursday Oct 30th 6-9pm

HOLIDAY CARDS with Pat Knittel
Find your inspiration for mailing your holiday cards this year with us! Create seasonal cards with stamping and collage techniques and even bring new life to old cards! $35

COLLAGE CHARMS with Deb Freedman
Design your own mini-collage using papers, words, and copied photos of dear ones! Place your artwork between glass, solder your pendant and your collage is ready to wear as a pendant or hang as an ornament. Take home 2 charms. $45

Private Birthday Party with Painted Placemats

A Painting Party to Remember
Last Friday night, one of our fine Artascope Studio teachers, Libby Barrett, hosted a private birthday party making decorative painted placemats. The party goers have been celebrating one of their birthdays with a fun activity each month of the year together! What a fun way to celebrate yourself and your friends all year long!

Libby's October birthday bash was a huge success. She taught everyone how to use latex and acrylic paint to create their painted placemat. Then showed them how to play with stencils, stamps and fun tools to create their personal decorative touches. They even tried out some experimental materials like bubble wrap. I think the end results are absolutely gorgeous! Happy birthday to you all!

Call for Donations!

Calling All Artist!
We are looking for local artists to donate some of your work to help our neighbors get through the winter. Artascope Studios has worked hard every year to collect donations for the Crisis Ministries Fund of South Portland and Cape Elizabeth with our holiday sale raffle and events throughout the year. This year we are taking it one step further to create our 2008 Silent Auction.

100% of all our proceeds will go to the community. All art donations will go to help our neighbors with the cost of heating oil, clothing, groceries, housing, utility bills, repairs, furnishings and medical bills. There are over 800 families that have been helped through the Crisis Ministries of South Portland and Cape Elizabeth since 2008. We look forward to helping out many more. So click on the link to see how to donate and become an important contributor to our community through your art! http://www.artascope.com/auctionrsvp.php

Gift Certificate-a Great Gift Idea anytime of the year!

Artascope Studio's Gift Certificates

It always amazing me how quickly the holidays seem to approach after the start of school and changing of the leaves. Soon after Columbus Day, we will be creating costumes for Halloween and grabbing a few bags of goodies to hand out at the end of the month. There are decorations to be displayed in our homes and soon we will be hearing caroling in the grocery store aisles. I learned a long time ago to embrace the connections to cheer and merriment that are so important during this time. It's a great time to invest in your community and yourself. So, how about spending a little time with us in 2009?

I am not sure if everyone is aware of our studio Gift Certificates that are such great versatile gifts for loved ones or yourself. Gift Certificates can be used for so many programs here at Artascope Studios, that the possibilities are endless:

Art Night Out Classes-any Monday, Thursday or Saturday Class

Artist Series 6 Week Workshops

Art Escape Weekend Intensives

Private Lessons-have a little one on one time with one of our talented teachers

Store Credit-who doesn't like to shop!

You can pick up your Gift Certificates at Artascope Studios from 9am-7pm 7 days a week or give us a ring and we will mail your gift right to your door or to your lucky recipient. Call us to find out more... 207-799-5154 or visit us online at http://www.artnightout.com/

October ArtEscape Anyone?

We definitely know how to welcome in the fall with a weekend ArtEscape selection that won't quit! So what are you planning to do for yourself this fall....Each one of these exciting weekend options start with a Friday night introduction to the material. It's a meet and greet session with wine and goodies. What a great way to start the weekend! Saturday is a full day from 10am-6pm, so that you have ample time to work with your new craft and enjoy the studio environment. Sunday is a shorter day from 10am-2pm, but the studio is open to 7pm both Sat and Sunday evenings to allow you to work independently if you so choose....so which one will you choose? Follow the link to sign up! http://www.artnightout.com/artescape.htm

Next Weekend: October 17-19th
Non-Soldered Metalsmithing with Betina Clark
Learn how to shape, texture and join metal using techniques that do not involve soldering. In this intensive, learn how to work with wire and sheet metal and combine techniques of texturing and cold-connections. Great for the metalsmithing novice, or the experienced student who wants to expand their skills!


Recycled Neckties with Diane Brakeley
Looking for something fun and innovative to do with that collection of unworn neckties? This weekend will show you that the possibilities are endless! You'll learn how to alter silk neckties to create handbags, skirts and even a chair! Not one bit of tie will go to waste as you bring new life to your old neckties!

Stained Glass with Gayle Raposa
Unlock the mysterious of stained glass! Great for beginners or for those looking to coax their inner artist to the next level. Learn the copper foil method, from start to finish. Learn tricks for cutting and grinding glass and creating flawless solder lines. Choose from our designs, or take a leap and design your own!

Last Weekend of October 24-26th

Acrylic Painting with Emily Leonard
This class begins with a thorough introduction to the tools and materials that are used for painting. Explore the basic elements of line, form, color, and composition. Finally, investigate how to create space and light on a two-dimensional plane. Great for the first time painter as well as the continuing student.

Precious Metal Clay with Ann Liller
Curious about this popular new material? PMC, is an intriguing material that has the versatility of clay and the rewards of fine silver! Get your ideas ready as you learn the basics of PMC. Develop your confidence as you learn how to prep, roll, cut, stamp and shape your PMC as you experiment with the possibilities!

Holiday Show and Sale Planning

It's time to close the windows, stack the woods and prepare for the chilly weather to come. Everyone at Artascope is welcoming the change of the seasons with a busy fall schedule of classes and events. The Stewards are busy preparing for our Annual Holiday Show which will begin in a few months. However, the festivities start early this year! We are going to be having a silent auction to benefit the Ministries Crisis Fund of South Portland and Cape Elizabeth. Plus....we will be having a Holiday Preview Show to really kick things off and allow people to plan ahead with their gift ideas and maybe find a few fun things for themselves.

We have round 20 participants in the Artascope Studio's Annual Holiday Show and we are confident that there will definitely be something there for everyone! Everything from felted creatures, painting, prints, batiks, jewelry, stained glass angels to hand knitted hats and scarves. As the event gets closer, I will be blogging about our talented artists to entice you all to come visit us during our busy holiday season.

Playing with Mosaics

Mosaic Moments at Artascope
One of our favorite members and our owner's mom, Lynne Bickford, invited 4 of her friends to join her in Laurie Spugnardi's Mosaic Mirror/Table class last week. The ladies has an absolute ball. Lynne has been one of Laurie's repeat students over the past few years and has started making so many beautiful pieces, that she has been selling them through our gallery and will be one of the many highlights of our upcoming Holiday Show and Sale this December.

The ladies worked very hard to create some lovely designs and have taken the project from start to finish. Laurie teaches them the proper way to mortar the designs onto their desired goods and grout their pieces for a finished look once the mortar has dried. The results are beautiful as always!

Summer Reminiscing

York Days
As the leaves begin to change, apple picking is on the brain and chimneys are being prepared for nightly fires, it's nice to reminisce about the summer here in Maine.

We had a great summer with lots of events at Artascope including summer ArtEscape Weekend Retreats, Artist Series and Art Night Out Classes, but did you know we took the show on the road? Betina and Suzanne sold their beautiful work while promoting Artascope Studios at York Days this summer. It's a great place to meet some new folks and let them know about our studio offerings. Our stewards have also been out on a cruise ships and participated in Buxton Days to broaden our base and get to know our growing community. Always a great time. Can you feel the sunshine?

New York Etsy Visit
Our talented manager, Suzanne Kiertianis, made a special trip this summer to visit the Etsy Lab in Brooklyn, NY. For those who are unfamiliar with the Etsy phenomenon....check out http://www.etsy.com/ to see what this craft industry giant is all about!

Suzanne has a fabulous time! There was a recipe slam night and bake sale during her visit. Baked goods were for sale from Sweet Tooth of the Tiger who inspired the event. All participants brought in recipes that were scanned and printed onto colored paper and everyone combined them all to create a simple'zine style binding. Suzanne added Cinnamon Puffs to the event, a favorite that her grandmother taught her to cook. She brought her Brooklyn friend with her who shared her mother's sacred Kugel recipe! All the goodies were delicious and Suzanne loved the lemon cookies the best. Etsy is that fabulous website that everyone should know about and now they have opened a small portion of their creative studios to the public! So glad Suzanne was able to get a taste of the Etsy way of life!

What creative plans do you have this week?

Wireworked Votive

Looking to learn some wireworking skills that go beyond the realm of jewelry making? Betina Clark will show you ways to work with copper, brass or silver wire to twist, shape and wrap to create these fun and elegant luminaries. Monday September 29th 6-9pm $45

Wireworking Briolettes

Using sterling silver wire, findings, and a few beads to accent your set, learn the secrets to success of wirewrapping briolettes. Stephanie Plourde, one of our new Artascope Teachers, will help you create a stunning pendant with coordinating earrings. Makes 1 necklace and pair of earrings. Thursday October 2nd from 6-9pm $85

Stained Glass Panel

Learn the secrets of stained glass while creating a dazzling accent for your home! Gayle Raposa will help you create your own design or use one from our collection. We have a colorful selection of glass to inspire you as you learn to cut, grind, tape, and solder your panel. Saturday Oct 4th from 2-6pm $65

Just follow this link and sign up....it's that easy....http://www.artnightout.com/sept2008.htm

Metals Anyone? Betina's Class Reviews

Metals Review
If you are looking for a great class to learn about metals, how about checking out one of Betina Clark's offerings! She recently taught two different metal techniques in our Metalsmith studio that will be coming back again in the Art Night Out fall schedule very soon. Check out the studio pictures we took during the classes.

Sewn Metal Jewelry:This is a great place to get familiar with our studio and working with jewelry. Students try out different hammers, stamps, and master the rolling mill while learning about basic drilling techniques. Playing with textured metals and accent beads, Betina assists students to create wonderful design that is sewn together! Each Student made a pendant or pair of earrings.

Hammered Metal Jewelry:Betina's popular Hammered Metal Jewelry took center stage a few weeks back. Students used heavy gauge silver, copper or brass wire to create marvelous pendants, rings, bracelets and earrings. they learned how to shape, hammer and finish their work with professional metalsmithing tools. The results were fantastic. Lots of clanging and chatting during class while everyone worked hard on making their unique jewelry. You will definitely turn some heads wearing one of your own beautiful creations.So have I peaked your interest? Betina will be back in the studio teaching Hammered Metal Jewelry on Monday October 6th from 6-9pm. The cost is $55 per student and you can register online. It's really important to preregister to ensure you reserve your spot. Betina will be teaching the Sewn Metal Jewelry class on Thursday Oct 23rd from 6-9pm for $75. Feel free to follow this link to our October class listings. You can register from this page and learn out more info on the class. http://www.artnightout.com/oct2008.htm

Artascope Teacher Highlight-Clint Fulkerson

Clint Fulkerson is our newest Artascope teacher. We are so grateful to have an innovative, talented metalsmith and artist working in our jewerly studio along side our other talented staff. Clint just kicked off his first Artist Fall Metalsmith Series on Wednesday nights starting last Wednesday the 17th. We expect great things from his students and will be sure to showcase their jewelry when finished.

So how about a little history on this talented artist: Clint Fulkerson is a Portland native who spent his childhood playing video games, making labyrinths for his hamsters, building model ships, teaching his brother how to draw in exchange for Kung Fu lessons, and pondering the true colors of dinosaurs.

During High School, he experimented using pen and ink, pastels, watercolor, acrylic paints, and ceramics. He took oil painting classes on Saturdays at Maine College of Art. In his Senior year, Clint was chosen to attend Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, where he tried cyanotype printing and steel forging. He went to Massachusetts College of Art intending to study illustration, but chose to study metalsmithing after seeing the tools and the incredible, small-scale objects students were making in the department. While at Mass Art, he also studied intaglio printing, black and white photography, glass casting, welding, website creation, and 3D computer modeling.

In Boston, he taught wax carving and lost-wax casting at Diablo Glass and Metal, and made jewelry from his studio there. He also worked at Haynes Flute Company casting flute parts in silver and gold, soldering, and managing inventory. In July of 2006, he and his wife Kate decided to move back to Portland, but first took a month long adventure in England, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. They had the opportunity to see a daunting amount of art, especially in London, Paris, and Amsterdam.

He currently has a studio in Portland. His drawings are in the Drawing Center's viewing program and is represented in Portland by Four Walls Gallery. You can learn more about Clint and view some of his 2 dimensional work at http://www.clintart.com/. To learn more about his Artist Series at Artascope Studios and check out our newest offerings, go to http://www.artnightout.com/artistseries.htm.

Sampling of Early September Art Night Out Classes

Sampling of Early September ANO Classes
SO how did you spend your Labor Day? I am sure it seems like eons ago, even though it's only been a few weeks. Libby Barrett spent the morning of Labor Day Libby spent teaching and learning with an Artascope student Lisa, who really has been wanting to do some book binding. Together they worked hard in our paper studio to deconstruct the ins and outs of making books, in order to figure out how to put it all back together again. It was a successful venture and both Libby and Lisa enjoyed their time and learned a lot about this craft. Not a bad way to bring in the September month.

Lavish Scarf with Diane
Diane Brakeley taught the Lavish Fibers Scarf class last week. Students learned to design and combine fibers onto a soluble Mokuba Free Lace which is then stitched together with colorful threads in our sewing room. The scarves are carefully washed to dissolve the Free Lace backing to leave you with unique, exotic designs. Paula is modeling her beautiful scarf for us! Valerie, another Artascope patron was a part of this class and a very active student during the summer months. We love it when our students are inspired to come back time and time again.

You maybe wondering what exactly is Mokuba? It's a water soluble products suitable for your sewing needs and it is quite unique. Typical water soluble products have 1-2 layers of plastic, slippery layers. Mokuba Free Lace is thicker than most, so it's less likely to tear and fold on you as you work with it- particularly at the stitching phase. It is the highest quality of water soluble being sold, plus is very easy to work with.
Painted Floor Cloth
Libby Barrett was back on the scene with her 2 week Art Night Out Class, The Painted Floor Cloth. The first night is spent planning out designs, sketching and figuring out the right paint combinations. The underpainting or background will be applied to allow a solid week for it to dry. The follow up week, students will lay down their final designs. Always a great class. Whenever you walk by the painting studio, there is always a little laughter and lots of creative energy bouncing around the room. Always a fun place to stop and check out the progress. There's lots more classes where these came from....are you game?http://www.artnightout.com/sept2008.htm

Artascope's 3rd Anniversary and The End of Summer Sale Follow up

Happy Birthday Artascope!
We celebrated our 3rd birthday with a very successful End of Summer Sale last weekend. The weather was perfect....if not a little too hot for some looking for a cool Autumn day. The fog rolled in late in the afternoon to announce the end of the sale. No one was disappointed with the great goods we had to offer and there weren't too many shoppers left without an item or two from all our gifted artists.

A neighbor of mine commented that it was nice to have a little excitement in South Portland and the we created quite a traffic buzz. People kept pulling up and taking a peek at what we were up to. It was nice to see the community so alive! We created lots of new contacts from people near and far that were always curious about us, but had never stopped in to check us out. Stewards were available to tour the crowds around the studio and gallery. We couldn't ask for anything more.

Suzanne presented Catherine with the sweetest chocolate cake for their shared 3rd year anniversary. These two hot shots are the reason Artascope runs so smoothly. Catherine was smart to gobble up Suzanne when she had the chance. They are a great team and the proof is in the pudding...or the cake in this case. I've included a shot of a few of our Artascope Stewards past and present surrounding Catherine and the luscious cake. Be sure there was much sampling occurring after the photos.

So check out some of the action from the day's event. Excitement is already building for our 34rd annual holiday show....can you believe it's just around the corner? Get ready to shop for sure!

Artascope Steward Spotlight- Diane Brakeley

Diane Brakeley
On Sept. 20, Diane Brakeley, our very talented Artascope Steward and Teacher, will be selling her artwork at the Maine Genealogical Society’s 2008 Annual Conference. This conference will be held at the Wyndham Hotel in South Portland, Maine. Vendors will be open from 8am to 4pm. Most booths will be advertising genealogical groups, selling historical books, or offering photo refinishing.

So how does Diane fit into this fascinating group? She makes found object jewelry, using items that have a history and a genealogy of their own! Not to mention that Diane is a genealogy enthusiast herself.

Her favorite items right now are her bracelets made from vintage cuff links or lapel pins. Your male ancestors might have left behind boxes of these items. If you can’t throw these away and they are just sit in a box, maybe you would like to talk to Diane about making them into something memorable for you to wear. She can refashion them into really unusual bracelets. She can make you a necklace from your grandmother’s silverware (or someone else’s) or weave the seat of your favorite ladderback chair with your grandfather's ties! Check out her typewriter key jewelry made from typewriters from the 20s-40s, too.

Diane's booth at the Genealogy conference is called “Presents with a Past” if you find yourself wondering through next weekend. Diane's business name is Della Mano Designs. Dellamano is her maiden name, which is Italian and means “of the hand”. Rather appropriate for what she does! Check out some of her newest work at our Artascope Gallery. Diane will be back teaching at Artascope on Monday September 22nd, 6-9pm, with her Mail Art Class. Take collaging to a new level and chat with Diane about her genealogy weekend...should be fun. Find out more about Diane's upcoming classes by following our link. http://www.artnightout.com/sept2008.htm

Artascope's 1rst Annual End of Summer Sale Excitement

End of Sale Preparations
The word it out and everyone is gearing up for tomorrow's great End of Summer Sale here at Artascope Studios. Although the rain clouds seem to be appearing on the horizon and the threat of a few raindrops may be in our near future, looks like everything will clear up for our big day tomorrow. Temps in the upper 60s/lower 70s and lots of sunshine midday. What a perfect fall day.The artists are preparing for the big event, the staff is making sure everything will go smoothly and hopefully you are anxiously waiting to see all the goodies we have to share! This is a great time to do some early holiday shopping and meet the artists. All participants will be there on hand to talk about their work, answer questions and help you find the perfect treasures. We will have a central check out inside in our newly remodeled gallery, so there is only one place to stop with all your items. We accept credit cards, cash and checks to make your buying experience convenient and easy. So what are you waiting for? See you all tomorrow from 10am-4pm! http://www.artascope.com/shopsummersale08.htm

Fall Artist Series News

There's a little chill in the air. It's time to start thinking about taking some of your activities inside. So what are you planning to do for yourself this fall? What about learning a new craft or deepening your artistic skills?

Suzanne, our amazingly talented studio manager, has been working hard over the summer to wrangle up some very talented teachers and expanding our Artist Series listings. The Artist Series is a 6 week class to allow you to really indulged your inner artist, investigate materials and connect with fellow free spirits. Our Early Fall Artist Series will begin this Sunday, Sept 14th, with a brand new addition, PMC with Ann Liller. She has become quite a PMC star over the years. Her Art Night Out Classes and ArtEscape Weekends are always packed, so make sure to take advantage of learning about this amazing silver clay material with our PMC guru. Class from 10am-1pm.

We will have a busy Monday from 10am-1pm with two Series offerings. Libby Barrett will teach Decorative Painting while Christina Taylor will host her metalsmithing class. Tuesday mornings, Gayle Raposa is back with her popular Stained Glass Artist Series. Wednesdays are another busy day. Liz Prescott starts us off early with Acrylic Painting from 9:30am-12:30pm and our newest Metalsmith teacher, Clint Fulkerson, will make his debut with his Wednesday night jewelry class from 6-9pm. Look for a future blog on this exciting new teacher....

10am-1pm on Thursday, Sue Drown-Trout returns for Batik and Dying and Suzanne Kiertianis, the mastermind behind all this, will end the week with her Sewn Beading class. We request preregistration for all courses to ensure running the classes without a hitch. Please click on this link to find out more details about these fantastic offerings. http://www.artnightout.com/artistseries.htm

So now all you have to decide....which one should I start with! Feel free to give us a ring if you are having trouble deciding which one. Our talented staff of Stewards will be able to help direct you to the right choice...like there's a wrong one!

September Art Festivals and Show Spotlight

Picnic MusicArts Festival
Artascope Teachers, Sue Hellier and Betina Clark are participating in the Picnic Music + Arts Festival, Saturday, Sept. 13, 11am-6pm in Lincoln Park (Congress + Franklin Art) There is going to be about 70 participating local artists, musicians and crafters.Sue will be showing some new work (framed original block prints, small prints on linen, and mixed media collage) along with the usual Zaz & Moe fare, printed clothing & homewares, SS jewelry, button bracelets and cards. Betina will be sporting her new line of silver jewelry with some old favorites. Check out more about this festival at http://picnicportland.wordpress.com/ . Sounds like an absolute blast!

Laudholm Festival and Artascope's End of Summer Sale
Talented Batik Artist and Artascope Teacher, Sue Drown-Trout, joined Sue Hellier in an absolutely beautiful show with many of the best craft artists from across New England at the Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival in Wells, Maine. The festival raises funds for the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve. Check out highlights from last weekend's show at www.laudholm.org/crafts_info.htm. If you were unable to catch Sue in Wells, word on the street is that she may be showing some of her goods at our Artascope End of Summer Sale this Saturday the 13th from 10am-4pm, so come check her out along with our 20 other talented Artascope folks.

End of Summer Sale Press

End of Summer Sale is almost here... So has anyone checked out the latest and greatest addition of the online newspaper: southportlander.com? Artascope has made their front page with our upcoming End of Summer Sale. We are very excited about art sale event. We have over 20 confirmed local artist participating in the outdoors sale. Perfect way to start September and maybe get in a little early holiday shopping. The studio and gallery will be open as well, so make sure to take a peek inside to see all the extra goodies! http://www.southportlander.com/

Artascope Studios
End of Summer Sale
Saturday Sept 13th 10am-4pm
(rain date Sunday Sept 14th)

Private Parties and Classes Galore!

Over the summer, Artascope Studios hosted a plethora of a fantastic private parties and classes. We thought you might like to take a look at some of the events we have hand crafted for our community.

Mosaic Garden Stone with Grandma:
One very special grandma,featured in the pink flowered shirt,treated her grand kids and a friend to the Mosaic Garden Stone Party. They created elaborate scenes that we sure to make their gardens look spectacular.One of the grand kids designed a killer whale, another made a cool looking monster of some sort and the third worked hard on her sunflower scene. An excellent day for everyone!

Collage Charm Pendants:
Deb taught a private party in collage charm pendants a few weeks back for a group of friends. Everyone got into creating their own personal designs using some great papers and other materials from our stash. The group learned how to solder their images between two pieces of glass to make some very special necklaces. Everyone went home wearing their work to show off to their families.

Sewn Beaded Cabochon:
Suzanne taught a private sewn beaded cabochon class to one of our summer stars, Valerie. She learned basic peyote stitch in the round pattern to set a beautiful piece of dichroic glass! Valerie learned how to work with seed beads, a needle, thread, wax and a fun thread burning tool in order to create her elaborate piece. Quite a masterpiece.

Artascope Teacher News- Libby Barrett

Libby Barrett, one of Artascope Studio's talented teachers, has some exciting news to share! Her painted floorcloths and table runners as well as her giclée prints have been accepted into the Maine Crafts Association's Center for Maine Craft retail gallery. The Center will be located in the new West Gardiner Turnpike Authority Rest Stop and will open in November. The Center is based on a similar, wildly successful facility in Tamarack, West Virginia. We are so excited for Libby and know they will be a hit!


Libby Barrett has lived in Maine since 1971. Barrett received her BFA in graphic design from Portland School of Art (now Maine College of Art) in 1988 and worked in that field for eighteen years. Looking for a more tactile involvement in her art-making, Barrett began painting and exhibiting floorcloths in 2002. In 2005 she took a six-month educational leave from her job to pursue an independent study making artist's books. Barrett continues to work in both mediums and exhibits her work internationally.

Libby says, "While making artist's books offers the opportunity to experiment with structure, materials, and processes, painting floorcloths fulfills my desire to play with design and color. I enjoy the different ways of thinking--a visual approach when painting floorcloths and a more conceptual approach when making books. "

Something for everyone in September

The kids are heading back to school. Summer is over and life will become a blur of packing lunches, getting to work and finding a way to keep everyone's schedule straight. So, how are you planning to keep yourself inspired?

Maybe you are young, crafty and unattached. As the fall approaches and you are looking forward to celebrating the beautiful fall season, what are your plans for the next few weeks. Want to collect a few friends for a night of art, wine and laughter?

Thursday Night from 6-9pm, September 4th, is our first ANO (Art Night Out) offerings for September. Libby Barrett will be teaching a two week class on painted floor cloths and Diane Brakeley will be in the metals studio working with the Silver Spoon Necklace class. Tempted? How about making your very own collaged night light for a kid's room or bath? Maggie Bokor will be introducing this new ANO program on Saturday, the 6th, from 2-6pm. Now we got your attention....

Monday the 8th, you have an opportunity to make hammered metal jewelry with Betina Clark or felted flower pin with one of our talented teachers. New teacher, Melissa, Knowles, will be teaching a linked beaded bracelet class on Thursday, the 11th, while Libby winds up her Painted Floor Cloth class upstairs. Lynne Holland will assist you in making a beautiful Autumn Wreath during our 2-6pm ANO class offerings on Saturday the 13th. Or you can try your hand at cutting glass with Gayle Raposa's Stained Glass Votives.

So...how about it. Signing up is easy. Follow this link to the schedule and you can even sign up on line. http://www.artascope.com/sept2008.htm Feel free to call us anytime if you have any questions. 207-799-5154. Can't wait to see you and meet some new friends!

New Metals Classes-Spiral Link Bracelet and Etched Copper Penant

New Metals Offerings
Betina, one of our talented artist and Art Night Out teachers, has expanded her metal class offerings at Artascope Studios. We've been working with her to develop fun new classes that are always a crowd pleaser. So, the Spiral Link Bracelet class was held on the12th of August. Betina taught the students how to use copper brass and silver plated metal wire to create these whismical jewelry pieces. The students learned to twist, turn and hammer their spiraled wire into a stunning bracelet! Be sure to look for it in our fall listings. I am sure we will be hosting this class again soon.

Kate Osler introduced her new Etched Copper Pendant class on Monday. Students designed their own intricate etched copper pendants. Kate walked them through the process needed to resist etch, saw, and even dap their piece to create some dramatic results. This Etched class will be coming back around twice in the fall....so see if you can make it. Monday October 13th and then again on Monday December 29th. Both classes are held from 6-9pm for $65 each. Think you may be interested? Check out our monthly schedule for more details. http://www.artnightout.com/schedule.htm#october

Artascope Home Improvements

Artascope's New Look
Have you stopped by the studio lately? We have been working hard at making Artascope Studios pretty spiffy lately. With some amazing help from stewards, teachers, staff and family, renovations went smoothly. Thank you everyone!!!

Where to begin! Suzanne designed and built a brand new kiosk for the gallery packed with space of new work and an easy place to purchase gifts for everyone. With new inventory on the shelves, our art supply store has something for everyone.

And how about the fresh coat of paint? The studio looks a lot brighter these days inside and out! Our purple porch coordinates with our famous Artascope color scheme. Our community board is now on the porch, so that you can view it day and night. The gardens have grown outside to accent our colorful entrance. We have added a beautiful white picket fence. After a successful day out in the gardens yesterday, next years blooms are sure to delight.

End of Summer Art Night Out Classes

The summer is coming to a close and Artascope Studios is gearing up for a fantastic fall. So what are your end of summer plans?

Monday August 25th from 6-9pm, come join us for Etched Copper Earrings with Kate Osler. You will design your own intricate etched copper pendants or pair of earrings! Learn the steps needed to resist etch, saw, and even dap your pieces. $55 per person. Or come get your sea glass fix in Lynne Holland's Sea Glass Earring Class for $35. Create these fun, summer-inspired earrings from our vast collection of sea glass! Learn how to wrap and connect sea glass with beads to make these eye-catching earrings in copper, brass, or silver. Makes one pair of earrings in either class.

Need a birthday gift for friend? Diane Brakeley will be hosting the Lavish Fiber Scarf this Thursday the 28th from 6-9 PM for $65 per person. Combine luscious ribbons, yarns and fibers with our magical materials to design your scarf. With a basic machine stitch to secure your dynamic array of fibers, add a little water to make your scarf come to life. Makes one scarf.

We end another busy month with the ANO class, The Accordian Book with Libby Barrett on Saturday August 30th from 2-6pm. The cost is $45 per person. You will learn about this unique, simple, and versatile book binding technique. Create this fun bound book that can hold treasured family photos, shared memories or even be a work of art itself! Makes one book. So are you game?

We have made it easy for you and you can sign up online. Just click on the class and follow the prompts. http://www.artnightout.com/aug2008.htm You are more than welcome to sign up the old fashion way and gives us a ring at 207-799-5154. We are always ready for you.

Mosaic Garden Stone Class Review

Mosaic Garden Stone
Summer is definitely the time to be taking this class. Taught by the talented ceramist, Laurie Spugnardi, this class always draws a crowd. The students work with beautiful glass tiles, shells and other ceramic goodies to create very personal garden stones for their homes. We are always excited to see what students come up with. Laurie works with each student on sketching out a design and creating with with the right colors and shapes before laying the final design in their mold. Once they are satisfied with their image, the cement is poured and they wait.....students will return the next day to pick up their garden stones. It's always exciting to see the final product. Lots of smiling faces for sure!

Laurie returns in September to teach the two week Mosaic Table/Mirror Class on Monday nights, Sept 22nd & 29th. The class is from 6-9pm both nights and the total cost for the class is $125. Please preregister online or call the studio at 207-799-5154 for details. http://www.artnightout.com/sept2008.htm

Sue Drown Trout-Batik Artist Spotlight

Sue Drown-Trout, our resident Batiking teacher, has been creating her own beautiful batiked creations for over 16 years. Sue is a very talented artist with a very interesting story: She began her career as an Art Therapist, working with developmentally disabled adults at the Laconia State School in New Hampshire. After receiving a Masters in Art Therapy from Pratt Institute, she worked as the Child & Family Therapist at the Nassau County Coalition against Domestic Violence in Long Island, New York. Upon the birth of their first child, Suzanne moved to Maine with her husband and baby son, where she began working with batik in earnest. Suzanne split her time between working as a part-time school-based substance abuse counselor and launching a line of batik clothing called Alexander’s Rags. After a few years, she began to create framed work, hangings and other original and reproduced work and Alexander’s Rags became Sunfire Batiks. Best known for both the whimsy and beauty of her work, Suzanne focuses on themes that celebrate children, nature and the journey we all share. We are grateful to have her on our team at Artascope Studios and hope you take the time to check her out. Here is her latest show schedule for 2008. You can also find her at the Artascope Studios Gallery 7 days a week 9-7.

Show Schedule 2008

http://www.sunfirebatiks.com/

207-409-4897

Audubon Fine Craft and Art Show at Gilsland Farm

Saturday, Sunday August 16, 17 10-5

Falmouth, Maine

WCSH 6 Sidewalk Art Festival

Sat. August 23 9-4

Downtown Portland, ME

Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival

Sept. 6 & 7 10-4

Wells Reserve at the historic Laudholm Farm

Wells, ME

Designing Women Show & SaleSaturday

October 4th 9-4

Consolidated School Gym

Kennebunkport, Maine

The Gifted Hand Fine Art,Craft & Gift Show

Nov 14 12-6 Nov 15 10-4
Holiday Inn, 215 High Street

Ellsworth, ME

Zaz ‘n Moe Studio Show
Friday, Saturday November 21, 22

South Portland, Maine

Summer Artist Series Highlights and Fall Artist Series Line Up

Metalsmithing
Artascope Studio's Summer Metalsmithing Artist Series with Christina Taylor wrapped up this week with students finishing a polishing their treasures. First time metals student, Kelly Manahan, said she was "very satisfied with what she created adding that she spent a little extra time in the studio practicing what she had learned". Kelly made several pieces including the three stone ring pictured here. Deb Freedman made the copper beads shown texturing, dapping, and then soldering copper disks together. Anytime you decide to take on any of our 6 week Artist Series, you have access to the studio and equipment 7 days a week. This added bonus makes the classes pretty tempting to try out.

Acrylic Painting
Liz Prescott finished off another successful Summer Artist Series in Acrylic Painting. The classes expanded this semester with new students including a mother/daughter team. There was a great community energy in the class. Weekly discussions on students work and painting demos by Liz make this class truly stellar. Some of the students tried their hand at painting outside in our gardens while other students focused on still life images in our painting studio upstairs.

Those are just a few highlights from our Summer Artist Series at Artascope. We also had wonderful classes in Stained Glass and Decorative Painting. Stained Glass and Acrylic Painting will return for a fall Artist Series. We will also be adding Batiking and Sewn Beaded Jewelry to the offerings. The Fall Artist Series will begin the week of September 15th. All series are held from 10am-1pm for 6 weeks. Please check out the link to see what may perk your artistic interest. http://www.artnightout.com/artistseries.htm

Batik Pillow Talk and Private Party Round Up

Batik Pillow Talk
Sue Drown-Trout, our resident batik teacher recently taught a very exciting Batik Pillow Cover class as a part of our ANO Series. The students were working with the batiking process of sketching, waxing and emerging in dye to bring their designs to life on their pillow covers. Sue told us that one of the students was wearing a white t-shirt that ended up getting splashed during the dye process. She decided to dye the t-shirt all together and pulled it right over her head and added it to the dye bath. Sounds like a pretty silly night at Artascope. I sure she will share that story anytime she wears her new batiked t-shirt out on the town! It was definitely a first at Artascope for sure. If you would like to try your hand at batiking and missed this class, Sue will be hosting our Fall 6 week Artist Series in Batiking and Dye on Thursday mornings from 10am-1pm. First class is on Sept 18th. Please check out the link for more info.http://www.artnightout.com/artistseries.htm

Private Parties: Sea Glass
We are always happy to accomodate private parties at Artascope Studios and have few picks from our latest events. Lynne Holland led a fantastic Wrapped Sea Glass Pendant party of local coworkers just a few weeks ago. Each party goer learned to wrap their hand selected sea glass pieces with silver wire and beads. They all went home with two pendants a piece and were looking forward to wearing them off at the office "fashion show" the next day. Lynne will be gearing up for her next jewelry making class, Intro to Earrings, on Monday, August 25th from 6-9pm. Check out the August Schedule to find out more details. http://www.artnightout.com/aug2008.htm

WigJig Earrings
Marcia Wigjig of the Wigjig family was our guest teacher for a fun Wigjig Earring Private Party last month. Students had a blast working with this amazing product that helps you create the most amazing earring designs. The best part is that the Wigjig family has already done all the hard work of creating the patterns. Students just have to follow their directions and they end up with professionally styled earrings. We are always excited to have Marcia here to teach and she adds so much to this class.

Wedding Bells and Baby News from Artascope Studios

Emily Leonard, one of our talented acrylic painting teachers at Artascope Studios is getting married this fall. Not only is she a talented painter, but a fantastic metalsmith. She has been diligently working on matching white gold wedding bands for her fiance and herself. She did a wonderful job and I am sure they will add such a personal touch on their day. Emily will be relocating to the Bangor area after the wedding. We wish her all the best. We will miss her here at Artascope, but know she will be a great addition to her new community and husband. Congratulations Emily!

She not the only one with special news to share from the studio....our August highlighted Artist, Steward and Teacher, Judy Babin is expecting her first baby next month! We are all very excited to see the new addition to the Babin family and know that Judy will be switching gears from working with silver jewelry to baby bottles and bath time for a while. Many of the our Artascope community was able to share in some of the excitement with Judy at her baby shower. Here are a few photos from the event. We all had a ball. We will all be ready to meet little baby Babin when she arrives! Featured in the photos are Maggie and Pat with Judy and Ann, Sue DT, Deb and Lynne. Our support and prayers go out to Pat and Lynne right now....sending lots of kind thoughts your way.

Art in the Park-Millcreek South Portland

Art in the Park

Show & Sale

Mill Creek Park South Portland, ME

Saturday August 9th 9am-5pm

Rain date: Sunday August 10th

Featuring one of our favorite Artascope Steward andTeacher:

Sue Drown Trout-Sunfire Batiks

http://www.sunfirebatiks.com/

Collage, Stained Glass and Tin People Class Review and Teacher Request

Basic Collage Techniques Our studio manager and talent teacher, Suzanne Kiertianis, taught the Basic Collage as part of our Art Night Out Classes last week. She worked with the students to play with color, design, composition and style to create paper collage masterpieces. The class was very successful and Suzanne reported that everyone enjoyed themselves and felt good about the new techniques they had acquired in class.

For all those experienced Collage Experts out there....we are currently looking for a new Basic Collage teacher and would love to hear from you. Please contact Suzanne at 207-799-5154 if you think you would like to join our talented team!

Tin People
Sue Hellier has a knack for getting students excited about making family and friends into fantastic tin creations. We make sure to offer this Art Night Out class every season to make sure everyone gets a chance for this playful event.

The students bring in photos or copies of their loved ones heads and create costumes or completely outrageous new tin bodies to apply them onto. They sketch out ideas before cutting the tine parts. Using enamel paints and grommets, each element is brought together and properly decorated for some fun effects. Lots of laughs and creativity coming out of this classroom and they are always different!

Stained Glass Panel
Gayle Raposa can usually be found in our stained glass studio when she isn't working on her latest metalsmithing masterpiece. Multi-talented artist and teacher, she has made quite a name for herself as our stained glass guru.

She recently taught the Stained Glass Panel class and the results were fabulous. Students worked with large colored sheets of glass that they cut down to the desired size. Personal photographs added a nice touch. So many options to consider. Gayle is wonderful at helping students refine designs and feel confident with their new found talents. Gayle is currently teaching Stained Glass on Thursday mornings as part of our Artist Series. This fall, Stained Glass Artist Series will be moved to Tuesday mornings 10am-1pm. Please check out the link for more information: http://www.artnightout.com/

Judy Babin-August Featured Artist

Judy Babin-
Featured Artist
Judy Babin, one of our very talented metalsmiths, is our featured artist for the month of August in our Artascope Gallery. Judy had a very unique style-working with fine silver wire to create bold and intricate designs. Multiple, layered elements and hammered links create organic designs and eye catching patterns. All of her works are for sale in our Gallery. You can also find her work on her website: http://www.judybdesigns.org/ and at JudyB's shop on http://www.etsy.com/.

Call for local Artists, Artascope Members, Stewards and Teachers

Artascope Studios
End of Summer Sale Announcement
Artascope Studios is starting a new tradition for all our talented craftspeople and artists alike.....

WE WANT YOU... Artists, Teachers, Members, and Friends of Artascope Studios. Join us to connect with other artists and sell your handmade goods.

WHO:
A call to Artists! Students! Teachers! Members! Stewards! All are encouraged to participate and share, show and sell their handmade works!

WHAT:
An end of summer sale celebrating everyone who has participated in the Studios! This is your opportunity to sell some of your work and mingle with other Artits.

WHERE:
On the lawn at Artascope Studios, 352 Cottage Rd, South Portland, ME 04106

WHEN:
Saturday Sept 13th from 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting.
Set up is at 9am. Your items will need to be present until 4pm.

RAINDATE: Sunday September 14th
SPACE IS LIMITED PLEASE RSVP BY AUGUST 15th.

Details:
There is no booth fee!

There will be a centralized check out location so you will not have to man your booth all day. Plan to set up and merchandise your own items. All participants must have their items clearly labelled with their name and price. Any other information is up to the participant. The studio will keep a 30% total sale commission for each participant. The Studio will collect sale tax. Patricipants will be responsible for claiming their earnings, however the sales tax has already been collected. All participatants must fill out and complete a W-9 tax form. The studio will provide bags & boxes for checkout. Accepted forms of payment for patrons of this sale: cash, check, mastercard and visa. Payments will be disbursed by October 18th.

Please RSVP your space at the studio today!
207-799-5154

Private Lessons

Private Lessons
One of the special offerings we have at Artascope Studios is private lessons with our teachers. We know that sometimes you can miss out on an Art Night Out Class, ArtEscape Weekend or Artist Series featuring the craft you always wanted to learn about. We are more than happy to set up private lessons for a student to come in and meet with our talented staff. Here are a few shots from Diane Brakeley's sewing lessons with 2 sisters. One is working on a shirt and the other is making a making a dress. Diane says they are naturals and ambitious for sure! Our hourly fee is $35 for a private session and can be set up with our manager, Suzanne, when you are ready to explore your options. 207-799-5154....don't be shy, we would love to inspire the artist in you!

Craft and Hobby Association Tradeshow Roundup

Catherine Bickford's Chicago Adventure:
We take great pride in offering fantastic Art and Craft supplies at our Artascope Studio store in South Portland. We are always looking for the newest items to bring to our customers and add to our extensive class offerings.

Last week our founder Catherine Bickford flew to Chicago to attend the Craft and Hobby Asscociation (CHA for short) tradeshow. It was a jam packed 48 hours scanning hundreds of vendors for things that really caught her eye....the must haves! Her adventure even included a class with collage artist Claudine Hellmuth. We have several books by Claudine available in our store and we will be carrying her new line of acrylics paints in the fall. Catherine commented that is was a real treat to meet Claudine! Sounds like an adventure and we look forward to showing you our new inventory when you stop in for a visit.

Kids Art Party- Birthday T Shirt Success

Kids Art Party
Artascope is the perfect place to throw a party! We specialize in Kids Art Parties for all ages. There are so many projects to entice our party goers with and we enjoy working with parents to make a memorable celebration.

We recently held a fantastic T Shirt Party at our studios. The T Shirts were pre-tie dyed by our teachers and ready for decorating. The birthday girl and friends got to make their very own stamps and begin decorating the colorful shirt to make unique clothing to wear. Talk about a cool party favor to go home with!

We are always excited to see the creativity flowing, watch friends help each other and witness a fantastic time had by all. It's a great way to take the stress out of planning an elaborate party at home. We supply some goodies and parents are welcome to bring a cake. Check out our private party offerings at http://www.artnightout.com/parties.htm

Hammered Metal Class and Fresh Art 2008

Hammered Metal Class Review
Betina Clark is our exceptional hammered metals teacher and she is always attracting a big crowd for her classes. Her latest class of 8 played with copper and silver wire. They learn how to manipulate the wire into desired shapes after a little time for sketching ideas. Once they have a handle on working with the wire, they hammer their creations to add dimension and harden the wire so that it will keep its form.

Here are a few shots from the class. It's a fun technique and very user friendly. Betina is always ready to help you finalize your piece or review possible designs. She is one popular Art Night Out teacher and a very talented jewelry herself. She will be teaching Sewn Metal Jewelry on Thursday night, July 31rst, from 6-9pm!

Fresh Art 2008
If you would like to do something exciting this weekend and support Betina's work, then check out some of her silver jewelry at her upcoming show, FRESH ART 2008! The event will be held at Sprague Hall on 1 Charles Jordan Rd in Cape Elizabeth this weekend. The show hours are Friday July 25th from 6-8pm (Gala Opening Reception), Sat 26th from 10-5pm and all day Sunday from 10am-4pm. It's the 10th Anniversary of this great group of artisans, so see what Betina has been up to!

Metalsmithing Studios-Diane Brakeley's Recent Class Highlights

Art Night Out-Drilled Seaglass Bracelet & Silver Spoon Necklace
Diane Brakeley is one of our talents metals teachers, specializing in altering every day items like silver spoons and beach glass into beautiful works of art. Over the past month, Diane has taught to popular Art Night Out Programs, The Drilled Seaglass Bracelet and The Silver Spoon Necklace.

The Drilled Seaglass Bracelet students learn how to drill safely through glass, ceramic and stone with specialized diamond tip drill bits. They also play with wire wrapping the drilled items to embellish with beads and attach to the finished bracelet. Although most of Diane's students were local, she had a visiting student all the way from Miami. A perfect memento from our Maine Beaches to the Florida shore.

The Silver Spoon Necklace Class has been a hit at the studio for a few years. Diane has been handcrafting these unique necklaces as a part of her own jewelry line. After lots of interest on how she created her necklaces, she began to teach a class about her technique. She has quite a stash of silver spoons, forks and more to share with the class. Sometimes students bring in their own culinary to transform into their necklace. Diane teaches them about cutting and polishing the spoon ends that create the necklace pendant. Similarly to the Seaglass Class, Diane works with the students on how to drill through the silver spoons and add jewels and beads for color and design. Diane is currently teaching one of our 6 week Artist Series for Sewing and teaching private sewing lessons at the studio. "Tie One On" ArtEscape Weekend will be coming up on the 3rd weekend in October. It will be our second time running this fantastic weekend where you will play with men's ties to create your own woven chair. What an event! www.artnightout.com

ArtEscape Weekend Review-Stained Glass Superstars

ArtEscape! Weekend- Stained Glass Student Highlight
Every third weekend of the month, we offer a 3 day artist retreat called the ArtEscape! at Artascope Studios. Gayle Raposa, our stained glass guru recently ran a fabulous Stained Glass weekend. Here are some amazing images from our recent member, Garrett, who joined the studio after taking this ArtEscape Stained Glass weekends! Her final piece was inspired by a sculpture she saw while in Spain. After many hours cutting, grinding and fitting together this intricate and very ambitious stained glass panel, the result was spectacular! Garrett had never touched stained glass before and did not consider herself all that "crafty", but she made believers out of us! Can't wait to see what's next for Garrett now that she has full access to our studios. The options are endless.

Summer Keepsake Box
Gayle was back in the studio teaching The Summer Keepsake Box class as part of our Art Night Out Series a few weeks later. Students has a chance to play with treasures from the sea that they would encapsulate into a stained glass box for all to see. What a great idea! I love thinking of staring into my little slice of summer bliss on those chilly winter nights and dreaming of the seasons to come.

Painted Floor Cloth and Folded Book Review

Simple Folded Book
Pat Knittel led a fantastic altered book class called "The Simple Folded Book". Students learned how to use decorative papers and basic folding techniques to create a personal keepsake for treasured photos, words and more. The students had a blast playing with our unique selection of craft papers and other materials for their books. Bone folders, a crafter's "need to have" folding tool, was used to create perfect folds for the project. We carry all of these paper need supplies in our store. We have kits and lots of interesting crafting items, if you get inspired to play.
Painted Floor Cloth
There is something about summer that always makes me think of colorful cottages by the beach....Willard Beach to be more specific. Filled with treasures from the shore and lots of sea themed artwork and decorations.....like hand painted floor cloths. No need to put down some drab beige rug at the sink or in the entrance of your home sweet home when you can have a colorfully designed floor cloth to invite you to step inside. Libby Barrett taught a fantastic two week Art Night Out workshop on the very subject. It was so popular that we have expanded our class offerings and she is currently teaching the painted floor cloth class as a 6 week Artist Series. Students are raving about the class and I am sure you will see it again on the ANO schedule. Check out our July and August classes.... www.artnightout.com

Glass Pendant Review-A Class for All Ages

Glass Pendant Class Review
What a delight to have such a diverse class as we did in our Embellished Glass Pendant Class. We pride ourselves on being able to bring together our community and make some fantastic opportunities for everyone to feel creative and special. From daughters with mothers, best friends and neighbors, the class mix is always different. It's great to watch people make connection with each other while they dabble in their artistic talents. There is always a sense of camaraderie and support not just from the teacher, but the students themselves. These are the times that Artascope truly shines. So many times we can record that magic moment when a student really begins to believe in their talent and get excited about their work. It's great to watch students interact and become jazzed about each other's achievements. So many one time students have to come back for more, bringing friends and relatives to share in their passion. Students become members so they can use the studio as their studio. Members become stewards to share in the support of Artascope as a functioning art learning center, store and gallery. The enthusiasm is electric. So, you won't know how you will meet in your next class or what inspiration may be found within our walls. Give it a try. http://www.artnightout.com/

Maggie Bokor-July Featured Artist

Maggie Bokor- Featured Artist
Have you checked out the Gallery at Artascope Studios lately? Every month the gallery changes for the featured artist of the month. We highlight our stewards, teachers and members in the gallery to share with our art enthusiastic community.

This month we are featuring Maggie Bokor, a multi-disciplinary artist, currently showing her recent acrylics, glass jewelry collection and polaroid transfers. Maggie teaches the Polaroid Tranfer Classes at Artascope and is a very loyal painting student of Liz Prescott's Acrylic Artist Series. This Thursday, she will teach a brand new class at Artascope, Reusable Fabric Gift Wrap! Should be a blast. You get to create your own botanical stamp and play will decorating your own gift wrap. Artascope is going green and we love it! Check it out on our online schedule, http://www.artnightout.com/jul2008.htm

Maggie's background is clay from the Rhode Island School of Design. She has worked in many materials and loves to play with color, form and function with all her work. She is also a local Nia instructor....a barefoot movement class taught at the South Portland Community Center and World Arts in Portland. You can find more about Maggie on the web at http://www.maggiestyle.com/.

Summer Artist Series Excitement and Acrylics Spring Wrap up

Artist Series -Acrylics Spring Session...
came to a close last week. Emily Leonard taught our Tuesday night Acrylics class. It was a great success. Students focused on a famous painter and worked with their images to figure out the master's technique and discover their our individual style. Challenging themselves with this project gave each student confidence on how they view the world with their eyes and how it all conveys down to the brush on paper.

Emily returns to teach a fabulous ArtEscape! Weekend over the first weekend in August at Fort Williams. Students start with a thorough introduction to the tools and materials and will play with the basic elements of line, form, color, and composition in an amazing outdoor setting. You will meet at Fort Williams Friday, Saturday and Sunday for a spectacular weekend of painting for both the experienced painter and a budding artist! Follow the link to learn more. http://www.artascope.com/artescape.htm

Summer Sessions Start Next Week

If you are itching to play with your paints and can't wait till August, then join Liz Prescott every Wednesday from 9-noon for our Summer Artist Series-Acrylics Course starting July 9th . She is a fantastic teacher and an established painter and craftsman herself, so get curious about your desire to paint and join the group. It's definitely a favorite around here, so sign up while there is still space.

Have you checked out the summer schedule for Summer Artist Series? We have one for each morning!! Mondays will be Decorative Painting with Libby Barrett, AND we will be bringing back an old favorite, Metalsmithing,with a brand new teacher, Christina Taylor! Tuesdays we will be Sewing with Diane Brakeley. Wednesdays....Acrylics. Thursdays we will be playing with Stained Glass with Gayle Raposa. And we will end the week with Suzanne Kiertianis' Sewn Beading Jewelry Session. All classes meet for 6 weeks from 10am-1pm except for Acrylics from 9-noon. The class cost is &175 for the 6 week session. Peeked your interest???? http://www.artascope.com/artistseries.htm

Benefit Yard Sale for Local Crisis Ministries Fund & Betina Clark's Opening

The Art Studios at Cottage Road's Benefit Yard Sale for the Local Crisis Ministries Fund was a huge success and started our Second Saturday festivities with a real bang. We transformed our lawn into a treasure chest of household goodies, art and craft supplies and fun items donated from our generous group of stewards, teachers, members and staff. Here's a cute pic of one of our lucky customers showing off her new books.

This was our second annual benefit yard sale for the Local Crisis Ministries Fund. We are very excited to report that we were able to raise a nice amount of money from all our local shoppers. We even had some donations made from folks just wondering by. For all our community support, we are grateful. Check out Pat relaxing in the sun with her favorite martini glasses.....hope she didn't sell those.....they are keepers for sure!

Betina Clark's Art Opening
Each month, The Art Studios at Cottage Road honor one of our stewards, teachers and members as our featured artist. Betina Clark, a very popular silver metalsmith, was our featured artist for the month of June. Her opening coincided with our busy Saturday morning yard sale. Needless to say, things were hoping all day. Betina was there to meet with guests and talk about her work. We had a busy night of traffic coming to check out Betina's new creations and spend some time one on one with the artist. You can see more about Betina by clicking on her link under "links we love" to the right of this blog.

Resin Jewelry Class Review

Resin Jewelry-
What a fun new class we added to our abundant jewelry offerings! Deb Freedman, has been working with resin as part of her jewelry line here at the Artascope Gallery. After lots of talk and interest about her unique work, we decided to put in on the schedule!

Deb led her class in designing their own mini 3-dimensional collages. They used craft papers, photos and small found objects the create their images. Then she taught them how to cast their jewelry pieces into molds and fill them with clear resin to add extra dimension. It doesn't take long for the resin to set and then you have an exciting multi-dimension collage jewelry item. Students worked with idol images, dried flowers and glitter. One student even played with a Maine map encrusted with seashells and sea glass.

Deb will take this class up a notch when we offer the Resin Coaster class this summer on July 17th! After checking out the creativity in these small jewelry pendants, the size of a coaster will be prime design space! http://www.artascope.com/jul2008.htm

Simple Photo Album Class Review

Simple Photo Album-
Suzanne taught a simple photo album class as part of our June Art Night Out Series to a creative mother and daughter team, Karen and Kristina. They learned how to structure a hinged photo album with fun artisan papers and sew the book together with gorgeous ribbons. The pages inside are sleeves, so they are ready to hold the photos of their choice!

This was the first time book binding for both of Suzanne's students and they did a fantastic job. The three hour workshop started with choosing paper, cutting out shapes from a template and gluing and covering their book board w archival glue. Karen and Kristina learned how to use a bone folder to create a professional folded edge on paper. They pressed their books for secure glue and chose coordinating ribbons to accentuate their designs. After practicing different manners of stab binding with 2 holes, they applied their lesson to the book and sew together their final product. Smiles all around! We will be playing with paper on Thursday June 26th with our Mini Folded Book class. Check out our June schedule and get inspired! http://www.artascope.com/june08.htm

PMC ArtEscape Weekend Review

PMC ArtEscape Weekend with Ann Liller-
Every third weekend at Artascope Studios, we run a weekend intensive. It's our ArtEscape Series. In May, our PMC guru, Ann Liller, taught a very packed PMC, Precious Metal Clay, ArtEscape intensive to 8 students. Friday night is the kick off from 6-9pm. It just happened to be Ann's birthday....not a bad way to spend your day. I am sure there were a few wine glasses used and treats to celebrate the beginning of the weekend adventures!

Students learned about the properties of Precious Metal Clay and started experimenting immediately. The three day format allows them time to work out designs, investigate and invent new ways to play.

Ann had just returned from her PMC certification weekend and had lots of new and exciting techniques to share with her eager audience. Saturday is a full day from 9am-6pm. Lunch is on us as students work through their longest day. The weekend is finished off with a half day on Sunday 10am-2pm. Students are welcome to stay until 7pm Sunday to finish up their projects and have time to share their experience of the weekend class. Many times, members and stewards will stop by over the bustling weekend to check out the progress and see the dramatic results.

Here are a few pics to show the process of this amazing material. As you see, many students use nature not only as their inspiration, but for their actual piece. PMC can be rolled out and stamped, squeezed out for more delicate applications or even painted on the surface of objects. The possibilities are endless and inspiring! Once this porcelain like substance is finished and dried, it is loaded into our jewelry kiln. After only a few hours of firing, these fantastic creations are now solid 99.9% silver works of art. The PMC companies work with silver, gold and looks like there will soon be copper and brass versions to add to the mix. Metalsmiths take note!

Artascope in the Garden-Paper Flowers and Mosaics

Paper Flower Bouquets-
Spring has sprung at Artascope! Anyone walking down Cottage Rd will enjoy peeking around our blooming gardens that frame our front entrance. So much inspiration and color!

Here are a few shots of our paper flower demonstration that we held on our Second Saturday Art Stroll in May. What a fun way to make your own permanent flower collection for your home. Did you see our photo in the Forecaster a few weeks back? They came by to photograph the event. A conversation to create a paper flower bouquet class maybe in the works, since we received such a positive response at our demo.

Mosaic Table and Mirrors-
It's definitely time to get outside and celebrate all this beauty and we are so excited about all of our great classes that support your desire for the great outdoors and your personal gardens. We recently hosted the popular Mosaic Table and Mirror class at Artascope Studios. It was a very inspired group of talented artists and their final products are spectacular!

Students designed everything from a fabulous Chinese dragon to abstract eye catching designs. I find that with every class there is more and more levels of creativity pouring out of students and into these great pieces of art. There are more mosaic classes coming up over the summer along with other great garden themed Art Night Out and ArtEscape Weekends. Laurie will be teaching the Mosaic Stepping Stone Class Next Monday, June 2nd and again on Thurday, July31rst. Mosaic Table and Mirror will be happening again on June 16th & 23rd. So make sure to check out our newest schedules for full details! http://www.artnightout.com/

Woven Neck Tie Chair Workshop with Diane and the Callithump!

If you have ever stopped by Artascope and checked out our fabulous gallery full of artistic treasures made by our very own teachers and stewards, then you would surely remember Diane's fabulous series of Woven Neck Tie Chairs. Diane was savvy to find a class on saving your old wicker/caned chairs by replacing the thrush with old neck ties. Diane has mastered the art of weaving patterns and colors into exquisite works of art. Here are some pictures of Diane's students and their own Silk Tie Chairs from her impromptu workshop held earlier this month. The class was created when one of Diane's patrons purchased a chair and asked to be taught the process. Her daughter and a few of our stewards/local artists joined in for a Sunday afternoon of sewing, weaving and silk tie fun!












So make sure to take a stroll through our gallery to see one of Diane's new chair creations. Don't forget to bring a few quarters with you for our new Callithump! Vending Machine recently acquired by Artascope. Curious? Diane's daughter and son in law are taking their Vending Machine Art on the road. A Callithump! is a magazine that is sold out of toy capsule vending machines. Each capsule contains an "article," which might be a poem, a series of photographs, a small sculpture... really anything that they can create multiples of that fits inside a capsule! Never know what you'll end up with. Check out their website at http://www.callithump.org/.

Artascope Steward News- Ann Liller & Libby Barrett

Ann Liller has made quite a name for herself at Artascope as our PMC guru. That's Ann posing with fellow artist, Dan Clark, last Saturday during their art opening at SASS-Second Saturday Art Stroll. Their PMC and metalsmithing work will be up at the Artascope Gallery through the end of the month.

Ann's been working with PMC for quite a while now and her innovation and desire to deepen her knowledge has recently led her to become PMC certified with Tim McCreight, a true leader in the world of PMC.

Thought you might enjoy hearing first hand from her experience, so here's Ann: "I have just come from the 3 day PMC certification class with Tim McCreight and all I can say is WOW. I have never worked so hard for three days in my life or learned so much. Out of 15 students, only 4 were from Maine and they came from as far as CA. There wasn't an extra minute to spare built into the program, we had to check our creativity at the door and we even ate our lunch at our desks! Rio runs a great program and Tim is just the best instructor that I have had in a long time. He debunked a lot of PMC myths, taught me new ways to do things, gave me a whole new perspective on the medium. This next ArtEscape weekend group is in for a real treat because I am still on a PMC-Tim McCreight high and I have some great new ideas."

Ann will be heading the PMC Art Escape Weekend starting tomorrow May 16th-18th. It's a full weekend of amazing fun. You start on Friday at 6-9pm. You will be in studio all day Saturday and 1/2 day Sunday. It's going to be an absolute blast. We are all extremely proud of Ann's accomplishments and just in time for her birthday tomorrow. Happy Birthday Ann!!

In some other exciting Stewarding news at Artascope Studios, one of our newest Stewards, Libby Barrett informed me about her floorcloths and artist's books are being shown in the Stable Galleryin Damariscotta May-October. The season opening is this Friday, May 16th from 5-7. Sounds like it's going to be an exciting weekend for both our artists! You can check out more about Libby Barrett's work at her website http://www.libbybarrett.net/. We are excited to welcome her on board at Artascope Studios. Here are a few examples of her beautiful work. You will find a link for her website along with many other current and past stewards and teachers from Artascope under links we love.

The Metalsmithing Studio- Soldered Ring and PMC Pendant

Our Metalsmithing Studio is one of the most used spaces at Artascope Studios. We host a plethora of metalsmithing, PMC, beading, wire wrapping and sea glass jewelry classes in our fantastic studio. Equipped with drilling centers, acetylene solder stations, a jewelry kiln, tumbler and a wall stacked with hammers, filling, cutting and beading tools , this place has become the hub of jewelry creation in South Portland.

Recently, Gayle, our stained glass expert, switch gears and taught a fantastic Solder Ring Class. This was a great introduction to metalsmithing and they were thrilled with their results after just 4 hours of work. Sisters, Julie and Diane were excited to make their own rings. Leslie had such a great time and she can't wait to practice her new skills, so she joined Artascope Studios as a Member to have access to the studios. Kelly was able to refresh her skills from a class last summer and even set a dichroic stone that her sister has made. Very successful class indeed!

PMC is one of our hot classes right now. PMC, Precious Metal Clay, is fantastic product that combines artistry, clay and silver into one amazing jewelry experience. The creators of PMC found a way to combine tiny silver fragments with a binder to create a porcelain clay-like substance that can be molded, carved and formed into the most amazing pieces. Once dried and fired in a jewelry kiln, your final product is a pure silver unique creation. Check out the results of Deb's PMC pendant class. Students came in with their own ideas and in some cases, objects to mold in plastic in order to make a PMC replica. The detail and designs are very personal and the possibilities are endless. Although the pictures look like students are working in clay, once their pendants were complete bone dry and fired, their final products were 99.9% pure silver jewelry.

May 10th- Second Saturday Art Stroll-Artist Spotlight- Ann Liller & Dan Clark

Artascope Studios is celebrating Mother's Day with a special FREE event for our community. Join us on May 10th for the Second Saturday Art Stroll. Celebrate Mother's Day with Paper Flower Making Demo from 6:30 to 8pm. It's a chance to learn how to create a paper bouquet! Bring the kids! Bring your friends! Take Mom out! Or take the kids and leave Mom at home so you can shop for her special gift! We have a wonderful gallery full of unique handmade items that would be a perfect Mother's Day present. The Gallery @ Artascope Studios is OPEN daily from 9am-7pm. May's featured artist is a double jewelry feature with innovative, beautiful PMC (precious metal clay) pieces from Ann Liller and metalsmith creations from Dan Clark.

Sea Glass Extravaganza!

Sea Glass Private Parties & Lessons
To say that our Sea Glass Jewelry classes are popular would be an understatement. Our close proximity to the ocean and all of our fantastic beaches is sure to stir the imagination with visions of what to do with all the sea glass treasures you find while walking along the shoreline. That's where we come in! We have been offering some fantastic Art Night Out jewelry classes and private parties and lessons for sea glass. Here a few picks from Lynne's successful Sea Glass Pendant private party. Lynne is quite the Sea Glass jewelry expert and showed off her talents by teaching a private session back to back with a private party for another Artascope Studio teacher, Nicole, and some of her co-workers. Check out the fantastic wire working and embellishments on the pendants. The hand dyed silk ties add a unique colorful touch. See the students in action as they work on their pieces and show off their finished creations.
Art Night Out Sea Glass Jewelry Classes
Our Sea Glass guru Lynne was back in studio working with students on wrapped sea glass earrings. Lots of fresh new faces at the studio which we always love to see! Lynne helped students pick out their sea glass gems and decorative beads to begin the project. The students learn to work with the silver wire as they find ways to wrap their treasures together. Lots of teamwork and troubleshooting happens so that the students achieves the desired effect. What a fun way to learn a little about yourself, meet some new friends and go home with one fabulous pair of custom earrings.

Diane kept the Sea Glass theme with her Drilled Sea Glass Bracelet. You know the class is popular when your students are coming up from Portsmouth NH! Students learned how to drill the glass, shells and other treasures using diamond drill bits in a water bath...how exotic! The class was a huge hit and each bracelet reflected the personality of the artist. Now this is a charm bracelet class to remember. Any of our Sea Glass jewelry creations would be the perfect piece for a night on the town or a stroll on the beach.

If you have missed out on all these classes and would love to join the Sea Glass groupies, think about joining Lynne on Saturday May 24th from 2-6pm for the Sea Glass Wrapped Bracelet. Sure to be a hit!

Mosaic Garden Stone and Hammered Metal Class Reviews

It was a busy night at Artascope Studios for two popular Art Night Out classes- Mosaic Garden Stone and Hammered Metal Jewelry- filling our 2 first floor studios with lots of sounds of clanking metals, snapping glass and conversations between students.

Check out some of the beautiful mosaic designs the students created for their garden stones. You could just hear the excitement about getting out into the gardens to display their new creations. A great way to welcome in spring.

Laurie helped her students lay out the design to make sure they have the right color combinations and bit and pieces for a desired effect. Safely glasses are a must for students breaking up glass mosaics to make their needed shapes. The final design in applied to contact paper and laid in the bottom of a stepping stone making container.....round plastic containers make perfect stepping stone molds. The concrete in poured over and the students come back in a day or two to pick up their final piece.

One cool side note on the Mosaics class was that every student signed up over the web. This is a very exciting new tool for all of our Art Night Out customers. Instead of giving us a ring to sign up for a class, you can sign up on line through PayPal at any time day or night. Under every class description, there is a sign up now button. Sweet! Check out the link.... http://www.artnightout.com/

Hammered Metal Jewelry with Betina was taken to a new level. No one held back in creating one of a kind pieces. Betina toaught everyone techniques to twist, bend and play with the wire into the desired effect. Hammering comes after to add texture and dimension to their items. One student embellished her beautiful blass dragonfly with luscious glass beads. Check out the 3-D sculpture using copper, brass and silver wire. Quite a masterpiece. The money clip is my favorite of the night. What a fun gift to make....always something new brewing in these studios.

Sue Drown Trout- April's Highlighted Artist Hosted Gallery Opening and Batik Demo

Sue Drown Trout, local artist and teacher, is our featured April Artist at Artascope Studios. Her beautiful batik work will be on display and for sale in our gallery through the end of the month. Thursday, April 17th, Sue hosted her opening with a hand-ons demo about the baking process. With examples laid out in the studios to show the step by step process of this wax resist dying process, Sue was able to show party goers and students alike about her art. Sue is preparing for the Late Spring Artist Series on Batiking starting Thursday May 8th. The 6 week session will be held from 10am-1pm. The cost is $150 for the entire session. It's a great way to deepen your batiking knowledge. If you are looking for an evening of Batiking.....how about trying the Hand Dyed Scarf class on Monday, May 12th from 6-9pm. The cost is $45. Makes a wonderful gift for a friend....or maybe you! Some come in and see what Sue has been up to. Artascope Studios Gallery is open from 9am-7pm every day, so stop by.

Experimental Drawing and Sea Glass Pendant

Experimental Drawing happened at Artascope Studios over the weekend along with another successful Sea glass Wrapped Pendant class. Quite a busy place. Spring has sprung and students are branching out into new media and trying their hand at some of our fun new classes. Lori taught a fantastic class in Experimental Drawing, using a grid system to map out an image to master texture, composition while stretching the imagination with altering block sizes for a unique portrait. I am sure Experimental Drawing will be returning, so check the schedule. If you are looking for some more of our new classes coming up at Artascope Studios, "Woven Necktie Chair" is bound to be a hit on Sunday May4th. The class cost is $80 and the class is filling fast. Diane has been producing some amazing necktie ladder back chairs for our gallery and wants to share her talents with you.

Our jewelry studio was packed with sea glass enthusiasts eager to create their own wrapped pendants for the summer. Students produced some stunning results. Kudos to Lynne for another successful glass. The pearls add a touch of sophistication to this beautiful class example.

If you are looking for a wire wrapping class, come join us for a very special WigJig Earring class this Monday the 21rst with Marcia Wiggins. Learn from the family that invented this wire wrapping invention. Should be a blast. Monday 6-9pm $50. Come check us out!

Private Parties at Artascope Studios- Hammered Metal Jewelry

Private parties are one of Artascope Studios specialities. We are always open to cater to personal events and create a fun environment for all types of events, from birthday parties to team building corporate parties.

We recently threw a fantastic appreciation party for Stegemann and Shuman Orthodontics' entire staff. They filled up 0ur largest studios with sounds of hammering metal mixed in with a little laughter. Betina was able to lead our 17 guests through a fantastic demo using copper and silver wire to create new and exciting jewelry pieces. With Suzanne's assistance and a little of my own, the entire cast of party goers went home with some very fabulous items to show off at work the follow week. What a great way to build bonds and show gratitude for your work family.

We are always open to talk about your upcoming event and we love to help guide you to explore all the class possibilities we have for parties in your future. We can offer parties for kids and adults alike. All we ask if for a time and class preference and 5 plus participants. The possibilities are endless!

Tin Collage People Class Review

What a blast our students had during Sue Hellier's popular "Tin Collage People" class. Everyone had an opportunity to bring in pictures of their loved ones and make fun new metal collage cut outs using photo faces and some creativity. Students altered wedding photos, kid head shots and other favorite images. One student transformed a wedding couple into a pair of funky fish. A few nephews and nieces ended up with some cool new metal digs and riding in a green JD gator machine. Another student turned their son into a "sun". Anything goes! What a way to celebrate your friends and family with a crafty collage project straight from the heart.

If you like collage, why not try out one of our upcoming April collage classes. Maggie will take you through the collage essentials on Thursday April 17th from 6-9. Play with text, paint and paper and find your inner artist! How about trying your hand at the Memorabilia Pocket class with Nicole. A perfect way to collect your memories from a special occasion or trip. We will be meeting on Thursday April 24th from 6-9pm. Join the fun!

Art Night Out Makes "The Maine Switch" Success Stories!

Our popular "Art Night Out" Series was the featured success story in The Maine Switch this week. Please check out the full story about Catherine Bickford, Artascope Studios' visionary owner and learn alittle about the history of Artascope Studios. We are all very excited about the buzz the article has already created since Thursday. Time to come check out a new class and see what all the buzz is about!

http://www.themaineswitch.com/story/view/1847/

Vote for Artascope! Phoenix Poll for Best Art Supply Store in Portland Maine

The Phoenix Newspaper has announced their candidates for the 2008! calendar year and Artascope Studios has been selected as one of the Best Art Supply Stores in Portland! The voting window will be closing soon, so place your vote. Please join our community of supporters in making Artascope Studios a household name for all of your art supply needs!

When is the last time you have stepped into our fabulous store? We have recently restocked all of our beading supplies after the Tuscon Bead Show in February and added some wonderful new items such as cast pewter findings, hand dyed silk ties and a plethora of new glass and crystal beads.

Check out our fantastic selection of acrylic paints, brushes and painting supplies. We are an exclusive distributor of Gocco printing supplies, so if silk screening or batiking is your thing, you will not be disappointed!

Need a last minute gift for a talented niece/nephew or looking for something to do with your kids while we patiently wait for the outdoor days of summer? The Art Store at Artascope Studios has lots of art kits like make your own garden stones, beaded tiara kits or beautiful origami paper packs with directions to fold your way into a creative day.


Go to http://thephoenix.com/theBest/Portland/ to place your vote! We appreciate your patronage!

Artist Series for Kids & ArtEscape! Weekend

ANO! Kids- Sewing
The winter sewing session of the Artist Series for Kids came to a close last week. Diane led her class of students through a series of sewing techniques. Each student chose and crafted an individual project; everything from making cool hand sewn purses to a funky stitched garment to show off to their friends. Here are a few pictures of the kids hard at work.


ANO! Kids - Painting
The Acrylics Painting spring session for the Artist Series for Kids began on March 10th and will go through April 14th. This 6 week session is great for kids 8-16 and meets every week from 3:30-5pm. What a way to stimulate some creativity and inspire young artist to explore their talents while hanging out with new friends. We are looking forward to showing off their paintings at the end of the session.

ArtEscape! Weekend-
Stained Glass
As we wrapped up our ArtEscape Weekend this afternoon with brunch at the studio, it was no surprise that we would be overwhelmed by the amazing creations coming from our Stained Glass intensive with Gayle. Starting on Friday night from 6-9pm, students are introduced to the techniques of stained glass: design, cutting, grinding and the copper foil method. Saturday was a full studio day from 10-6 where students were able to master their new techniques and challenge their creativity. Sunday wrapped up with a lot of oohing and aahing over each others work. Another successful ArtEscape Event!

ArtEscape! Weekend-
Altered Book & Sewn Beading
April 18th-20th are the dates for the upcoming ArtEscape! Weekend intensive at Artascope Studios. We will be featuring 2 ArtEscape! Retreats: Sewn Beaded Jewelry with Suzanne and The Altered Book with Kim. Whether you are a seasoned scrapbooker or enjoy collaging at home, you will be inspired by using text and books as a medium for design. If beading is your thing or you have always wanted make some new items for your jewelry box, join the fun and learn exciting ways to find your inner jeweler!

Talisman PMC Necklace class was a hit!

Last Saturday's Talisman Necklace class was very well received. The intricate layered medallions consisted of three separate layers of art jewelry representing the personal intentions each student. The top layer is a stamped image on PMC, precious metal clay. Thanks to our PMC guru, Ann, Maggie and her students were able to utilize this amazing silver product by embellishing it with personal symbols and design elements. The underlying silver discs were stamped with personal sayings to keep their inspirations always close to the heart. The third layer was created with healing crystal beads. The class had a chance to pick out their favorite stones and learn all about their fascinating healing proprieties. The end results were three truly unique pieces and three very satisfied artists.

PMC, Silver Spoon Necklace and Beach Stone Pendant Review

Anne kicked off last weekend with a wonderful intro to PMC, precious metal clay. PMC is such an amazing material to work with. It acts like porcelain clay and fires to be 99.9% pure silver. You can stamp, sculpt and play you way to making unique silver creations. If this sounds like something you may like to try, we will be running our next PMC classes on Saturday March 8th with the Talisman Necklace with Maggie, Monday April 28th...PMC Pendant with Deb. Anne will be back for a ArtEscape Weekend in May...16-18th.

On Monday, we continued our exploration in metals with Diane's Silver Spoon Necklace class on Monday and Sue H's Tin collage People. It was a full house and lots of action in the jewelry and printmaking studios. Where else can you take your family silver and make a sweet new piece to wear or create a tin caricature of loved ones. It's always great to drive by the studio late at night when everything has quited down to see the beautiful glow of the studio and know there is a bundle of creativity just brimming over on the other side of the door.



The week finished out with a great workshop on Beach Stone Pendants with Lynne. Check out some of the photos from class. Everyone really enjoyed embellishing their finds with unique beads and wire wrapping techniques. Pure design fun! If this looks like fun, try out Diane's Beach Stone & Sea Glass Bracelet that will be coming up on Sat March 22nd. Always a good way to get ready for beach!



Feel free to check out our classes at http://www.artascope.com/ and look at the details in our monthly post with pictures and descriptions of our offerings!

New Venture for Artascope Studios

Artascope Studios has decided to create a new art blog as a way to stay connected with artists everywhere and let everyone know about all the wonderful things we have to offer. Artascope Studios is located in South Portland Maine and home to the popular Art Night Out™. Artist Series and ArtEscape!™ programs. We offer art classes in everything from glass working, wireworking, beaded jewelry, PMC, photo transfer, printmaking, batiking, metalsmithing, collage, decorative painting, fine art painting and book arts to name a few!

We have a fabulous in-house art supply store and 5 unique studio classrooms. The Art Night Out™ program is a great way to learn new skills, get together with friends or make some new ones. We hold classes every Monday and Thursday Nights from 6-9pm and Saturdays from 2-6pm. Our Artist Series are 6 week long classes that meet once a week and offer an excellent resource for students looking to find a new talent or sharpen their skills. The ArtEscape!™ Weekends are three day intensives held year round where you can experience a huge amount of creativity in a small amount of time!

There are opportunities for the community to join as members, using the facilities and receiving some great perks for a small fee. The steward program has been an intregal part of Artascope since its beginings 3 years ago. Local artist donate a few hours of their time on a weekly basis to watch over the studio, give tours and help keep Artascope looking its best. The stewards also share their talents by teaching the extensive list of classes we have to offer here. Our lovely gallery is home to creations by all of our stewards and members with a montly highlighted artist to check out.

Check out some of our upcoming February classes. Check out http://www.artascope.com/ for more information!

Cheers!
Maggie

February 2008 classes!

Intro to PMC
23 Feb - Sat (2-6 PM) $125
Explore the fantastic world of PMC and what you can create! You will learn how to roll, stamp, shape and watch your designs come to life with PMC. You will be amazed with the results. Includes a brief introduction to the medium.

Silver Spoon Necklace
25 Feb - Mon (6-9 PM) $45
In this class you will take a silver spoon or fork and convert it to a stunning pendant! Learn about sawing, drilling and wireworking! Who knew there were so many possibilities for a spoon?
Tin Collage People25 Feb - Mon (6-9 PM) $45Using copied photos of loved ones, create these adorable tin folk! Bring your imagination to life as your loved ones serve as your inspiration! Great for holiday gifts!

Beachstone Pendant
28 Feb - Thu (6-9 PM) $45
Are you looking to increase your wireworking skills? This new class will add another method of wire wrapping to your repetoire. Learn how to use wire to accent beachstones in a way that is sure to delight everyone!