Catching Inspiration!

Catching Inspiration!

Last week I had the opportunity to interview a young woman who is headed in the right direction.

Led by her own inner strength, guided by her parents and a really good teacher... and a goat!

I find myself thinking about her story and realizing that yes, small towns are cool. 

Today, as I was starting my daily morning pages, I realized that I'd forgotten the prompt for the pages that had come to me last night as I was getting ready for bed. This morning I wrote, "ideas are fleeting - just like bubbles - if you don't see them while they're whole and can shape the picture - they're gone! But their energy doesn't disappear. Someone somewhere we eventually catch the treasure encased in that rainbow sphere" and just like that my prompt came back to me. I remembered that I wanted to write about this young woman and her mother.

Life brings challenges along with blessings. I'm struck by those relationships that show great strength and courage. This photo of mother and daughter speaks to the deep love that comes from walking together with clear vision. There is satisfaction and understanding; these two know how to move through fire to find the light.

I'm blessed to have heard a small portion of the life and dreams that these two share. Blessed by treasure encased in rainbow spheres. Blessed to live where the big sky looks down on our journey and we look up into dark night skies.

Blessed Be!  

Remembering the Sparkle of Unstoppable Dreams~

Remembering the Sparkle of Unstoppable Dreams~

The vision of smiles for everyone easily felt without fear.

Confidence born of accomplishment acknowledged freely by friends and strangers.

The trail to a new world that is not brave but rather unstoppably curious.

Steps on Mother Earth beating out the rhythm of an unstoppable journey.

The desire to welcome the guest with warmth and grace.

Here, an Invulnerable Sparkle ~

Reminding me that the voyage across days and rivers, oceans and unstoppable waves to a new day is never ending.

That the path towards love and joy and compassion and understanding and inspiration and peace is infinite.

I am remembering the sparkle in mothers’ eyes for the freedom of husbands’ embraces.

I am remembering the sparkles in parents’ eyes as children laughing bring friends to play and share and learn and care.

Remembering the Unstoppable Dreams~

            A Mobius strip of dancing light leading me forward.

I am smiling.

Revisting unstoppable dreams.

Christina Boyce

3/9/15

Pondering Possibilities

The dust storm Tucson just experienced puts a new twist on the visitations from Mother Nature... a twist that reiterates my own commitment to honoring a path of creating the future with clear thoughts of right lively hood with nature.
I played with the photo of a glass of wine in our kitchen... took it into PhotoShop and used the "liquify" filter and the solar flare tool. Those effects hide a chip in the ugly beige linoleum counter top that the glass sits on. Bells and whistles... or glitter and ruffles... either will work to distract the viewer from the shame of a perceived flaw. Time and energy heal all.
I'm working on a new series in pastel on canvas that I've mentioned before... I'm exploring identity, mine in context with the world about and the interior world of my dreams and visions. There is movement, text, change; an opportunity to process the conflict between hopes and expectations. 
I'm excited to report that a friend of my husband's, Richard Lehnert, has a poem published in one of my favorite magazines, The Sun Magazine. Congratulations Richard!
Tim has been busy reviewing the plays that The Santa Fe Trail School for the Performing Arts is presenting in repertory theatre, this latest, Red White & Tuna is posted at his website for your reading pleasure. The show was a hoot, the acting a feast to watch with the added value of a 90 minute dose of laughter... whatever was ailing us was given a shot of cure!
I'm having a blast working as a content developer for KRTN, Enchanted Air, Inc. radio. The owner, Billy Donati, is wonderful to work with and for. His team is top notch and I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with them in this capacity.
Summer in Des Moines is hot and dry and sweet on so many levels. I feel blessed and brief!
Keeping it short today so I get my time in at the studio~
Keep cool and safe, 
Envision the best and ponder the possibilities, 
Christina

Authenticity ~ Finding Flow

The sun shines on a beautiful day here in northeastern New Mexico.... though inside my hands are stiff with the cold.

Today is typical New Mexican spring time... cold in the shadows and warm in the sun. So, as it is a magical day and upstairs Suite B's porch is warm and sunny, I'll move outside to warm up these flying fingers.

Mucho better!

I'm feeling rejuvenated after a mini-holiday with my love (he's on Spring break this week) spent at Heart's Desire B&B in Raton New Mexico.

We stayed in the Victorian room for two days and had a wonderful time. Barbara Riley is the owner and hostess at this most cozy & charming inn. We highly recommend it to all who travel though the area.

Friday evening is the reception for The 4th Annual Ralph Solano Memorial Photography Show. Photographers, artists and the public will be on hand to congratulate the award winners as they are announced during the event. I'm looking forward to being there and to seeing who takes home what award. The show has a strong mix of images which gurantees that everyone will find something to enjoy. I encourage you to plan on being there to mingle and support the arts in our region.

Saturday the West Gallery in Studio C will transform into a photography studio as Tim Keller brings in a client who has commissioned some portraits. I'm thrilled to see the space being used in so many different ways to support the arts and artists in our community. If you are interested in booking an event at Studio C send an email to studioc@bacavalley.com and we can work it out.

Sunday is another exciting event: our second Open House for Guest Vendors. Come by from noon to four to see what we have in addition to our regular art & crafts. Margaret, Nicole & Marsha are looking forward to sharing their wares with you. We might have a couple more vendors show up so do stop by for a visit.

Thanks!

Christina

P.S. About the photograph: A pastel I did several years ago to help promote the Art & the Volcano project which partnered The Mandala Center, Capulin Volcano National Monument and the Des Moines Schools.

Hearing the Light

I am so looking forward to Studio C's 3rd Annual Show of Gratitude! It's been an interesting and dynamic three years since I started this adventure.

Karen Anderson, shown in this photograph taken by Tim Keller, shares a double bill this Saturday with author Steven F. Havill. Books by Steven and CD's by Karen will be available for purchase and both artists will be happy to sign them for you. The Chronicle News ran Tim's preview about the show so we are getting a good buzz. I'll post some links soon so you can read it.

Right now the gallery walls are mostly blank... waiting for the new work I've put out a call for... yes, it's a little late, but we still look forward to a good response to the call for holiday arts and treats. I'm about to change those blank walls with some new prints Tim has brought in just for this show. I'm excited to see what else will come in from our community! And of course I'm anxious to get cracking on some of my own ideas!

There is much to do before the show Saturday... I feel like the Fezziwigs of A Christmas Carol... This business is a great journey for me and this special holiday is a great time to celebrate all the blessings that another year has brought. Thank you, dear reader, for being part of it!

In speaking of the adventure of learning to run a business I'll share with you one of my challenges. I am one of those people who live in the moment... so much so that I can lose all sense of time. One of my challenges with retail is that one has to live in the future!

Let me explain: It's Thanksgiving season for me... pumpkins, Indian corn, colors of rust and mustard and winter grasses flowing across the plains. I just can't rush past Thanksgiving and into the reds and greens and whites and blues of Christmas and Chanukah..... call me old fashioned I guess! I remember as a child that there were distinct seasons. Now Halloween shares shelf space with Christmas in the "real" retail world and somewhere in there Thanksgiving gets thrown in, almost as an after thought!

Here at Studio C I strive to be thoughtful in my choices... and to learn as I go what works best. One thing I do know, Miracles, Milagros & Wunder ~ Small Works & Local Flavors Holiday Show is a great opportunity to bring in new talent, to give artists and artisans an opportunity to grow, and to provide our community a place to shop local and support local artists. This will be an annual show and I'm open to ideas and looking to create a win, win, win event. I welcome your comments!

Last week Judy stopped in for some coffee for her parents. Nathan & Tim stopped in on their way to Boulder having been on a deer hunting trip in Texas... they bought coffee to go and chocolate and admired the gallery. Nathan's boots were very cool, and I, being hard-wired as a costume designer, complimented him which brought up the subject of a great boot shop in New Mexico: Joe's Boot Shop.

Speaking of gratitude, gratefulness and thanksgiving~ Feel free to leave yours in a comment. It will be good to read and share. I hope you will!

Christina

Giving Thanks

It's upon us! The holiday season is about to begin... Billy & Buddy are spreading the news with details for several gift bazaars and decorating parties. Listen to KRTN radio, 93.9 starting at 8:00 a.m. for all the local goings on.

Christmas, Chanukah, Muharram, Winter Solstice, Kwanzaa, New Years' Eve and Epiphany all fall during the winter months. It points out how connected we all are. The season guides us into reflection, celebration and an honoring of sacrifices made in the quest to realize the great dream of peace and good will on earth. Someday our struggles for peace and liberty for all will be realized; these holidays are part of our journey towards a loving and compassionate world.

I love Thanksgiving. Soon plenty of us will celebrate the blessings that our forefathers' and mothers' had in landing on this continent and finding the people here gracious and helpful. Remembering this, we gather together with good food and love in our hearts to express our gratefullness and gratitude for all of our bounty.

Studio C is celebrating it's third annual Show of Gratitude this year. It is amazing to me that life allows me to live my dream and has brought so many talented people together to celebrate the arts and creativity. Thank you for sharing in this wonderful way.

I am putting together our next show: Miracles, Milagrow & Wunder~ Small Works and Local Flavors. Call for information: 575-278-3517.

Coming up in the area:

* Friday November 13 - 15, at The Luna Theatre in Clayton, New Mexico:

Where the Wild Things Are 7:00 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

* Monday at The Schuler Theatre in Raton, New Mexico:

Juan Carmona Grupa

* Tuesday November 17th, 5:45 p.m. at Old Pass Gallery:

Raton Arts & Humanities Council's Humanities & Education Committee meeting: ~Bring your dinner, your planner & your ideas. If you are interested in promoting the arts through the humanities and education then you are welcome to join us.

Adventure!

This life is such an adventure! I've been riding my bike regularly for two months now. New strength, calm and the start of a new poem has come to me as the wind resists or assists me in the stunning terrain that we are blessed to live amongst.

I've been enjoying a lovely stream of visitors in the gallery this week. Victoria came in early to pick up copies of the Chronicle News which has been reporting on the Herzstein Memorial Museum's recent Old West Days. Janet came by to drop off some items she knew I'd make good use of. Both went off into their days with chocolate to sweeten things up.

Later, Sandra & her husband John stopped in for the first time. They are building a home east and north of here and Sandra is looking to bring together a vocal ensemble to sing classical music. She gave me an impromptu voice coaching which synchronistically answered a question I had about my own vocal training (I just started taking lessons with my dear friend Carmen who lives in Albuquerque). I am looking forward to hearing Sandra's group! Maybe they'll debut a song at one of our open mikes in the future!

Tomorrow, Saturday August 29th, is Live @ Studio C! I am proud to present Gabrielle Louise and her partner David Rynhart as our featured act. For more information read Tim's article about Gabrielle Louise in the Chronicle News: page 1, page 2. Kathryn Engel is in the spotlight and presents a dramatic reading to warm us up.

Kicking it all off, as is the tradition here at Studio C, will be the open mike. All forms of performance and presentation are welcome at our open mike. Traditionally, open mikes provide a nurturing time and space for anyone brave enough to step in front of those assembled to share their talent. They provide you an opportunity to grow and the audience an opportunity to get to know more about you. I hope you'll come see the show Saturday and even sign up for a spot on the open mike. Send me an email and I'll add you to the list. Abbie did!

We are gearing up for another fall full of events....

Calling all types of creative people! Come set up to sell what you have at our 2nd Summer Arts Street Fair here in Des Moines New Mexico on Saturday September 26th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Click vendors for more information. There will be food, fun, and stuff to buy. Support your local economy in the truest of senses... buy from friends and neighbors. Your money will be circulating in our community which is GOOD thing! I also encourage you to spend some time developing your own crafts and harvests for sale. We often have more than we need in our gardens... this is a perfect opportunity to share and make some money. I'm drying herbs myself! It's fun to see my shelves begin to show signs of abundance beyond my own household needs. I'm keeping things simple; living by the credo to "Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle" so overhead is low even while I'm producing high quality herbs and plants to sell. I wonder what you have that could provide you with added income and our Summer Arts Street Fair shoppers wonderful choices for their hard earned dollars. Questions? Let's open this up for discussion. Leave a comment with your ideas. Let's grow our creativity together!

Next month in September, Live @ Studio C! will be a little different~ It's a field trip! We'll meet at The Mandala Center for their fall evening concert: September Sizzle. The Mandala Center presents Randi Whitman, Eileen Terry and Valerie Powell. They are a very accomplished trio comprised of flute, piano and soprano voice. The event is free and includes a wine & cheese reception. The Mandala Center would love an RSVP and donations are greatly appreciated.

If you want to hear about what is going on in our area, one of the BEST things to do is to tune in to KRTN, 93.9 FM radio out of Raton, New Mexico and listen to the dynamic duo of Billy D and Buddy Springer. They do a wonderful morning talk radio show called This, That & The Other. Sponsored by several local businesses, Billy and Buddy welcome any and all who come to the studio Monday through Saturday to talk about... well, this that & the other! Thank you Billy & Buddy for a terrific show!

Wes, on his way back to Durango from San Antonio is sitting out front with a cup of organic fair trade Guatemala Maya Ixil coffee, freshly ground and brewed, enjoying the sound of water running in Nathaniel Franklin's two water sculptures. He's in a blessed time in his creative journey and knows that there is plenty of time to get to Colorado. He's taking time to stop and smell the roses and savor the delicious coffee grown and picked and purchased at fair living wages. A nature lover and nutritionist in training, customers like Wes are part of why I love growing Studio C!

I hope you will come by the gallery to see what we have to offer. Studio C is growing and changing as we all do. Life is rich with Joy and discovery for all of us. I send you vibrant bliss!

Cheers!

Christina

Changing Times, Changing Ways

Well, the day has begun! We've got great weather, 30% chance of rain, blustery warm winds and inspiration from new projects getting underway.

New T-shirts from Chiapas Mexico artist Nono Espejo have arrived. Come by to see his new shirts in both men's and woman's styles/sizes. His Mayan-inspired images are batiqued and tie-dyed in deep rich colors that are perfectly tuned to the fall season coming up.

Don't forget to mark your calendars for August's Live @ Studio C! Saturday August 29th we are featuring Gabrielle Louise with David Rynhart. This is a night not to miss. Be sure to check out Gabrielle's link so you know why. We'll also spotlight Kathryn Engel and of course hear from the adventurous participants who sign up for our open mike. Did I tell you about our give-a-way at our July show? (I've decided that we'll be giving some "door prizes" away. You never know what that will be and you do have to be present to win.) Last month Sharon Niederman won a loaf of pineapple nut bread made fresh for the evening by Abbie Reaves. Abbie's breads are available here each Sunday at the Des Moines Area Farmers' Market which will be here from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.

The Union County Fair is in progress and Art Plays Its Part! student work is hanging in the show barn in Clayton. Students should all be proud; the work looks wonderful! FYI the Colfax County Fair is also going on. The work will come down Saturday and then make its way to the State Fair/ New Mexico Expo in September. Talk about well travelled!

The Herzstein Memorial Museum in Clayton, just 45 miles east of here is hosting a new event on Saturday August the 22nd from "noon - ????". Presenting a full day of fun with their first ever "Old West Days". There'll be long horn cattle to get your photo taken with, good food, arts & crafts booths, games, historical reenactments and in the evening music and a street dance. Attendance is free. All this will be at 22 South Second Street in Clayton New Mexico.

Speaking of events, there is a new open mike in Raton. The series is called Second Wednesdays. Pay a $5.00 cover fee, sign up and share your talents at the El Raton movie theatre on the second Wednesday of each month! Hey, with that schedule I can even go sign up.... proceeds from the night will go to the Wounded Warrior Project.

I've received the prospectus for a new event in Raton, Raton Bearfest - Fine Arts & Craft Show which will be held in Raton October 10th & 11th at Ripley Park. Artists are juried into the show. Entries must be postmarked by September 21 and include fees. Email Cindy Montoya for details.

Here in Des Moines we are getting ready for our second annual community events series! Were putting out the call for vendors, artists and artisans to show and sell your wares on Saturday September 27th during our Summer Arts Street Festival. Send us an email for more information.

Check out Tim's blog this week for information about the Folsom Museum and goings on there.

So, there it is! Another week here in the gallery has arrived. I hope you'll come by for some coffee and chocolate and fresh veggies and of course: ART!

Thanks for leaving your comments here on the blog. It's such an honor to know you are reading and enjoying this news.

Blessings and Magnified Creativity to you!

Christina

Rainy Days Remind me of Scotland!

Well, I've been enjoying the Scottish rainy day here in Des Moines! I was all set to write this entry early before I opened the gallery until I went out to feed our birds... the drizzle, the wet spongy ground, the beautiful morning light... I was transfixed by the days of rain we've enjoyed these last weeks. I did some light gardening! I've got lovely flowers and herbs to fill the vases here. I've had a shop full of internet cafe patrons. I've downloaded the camera and have some new images to share with you!

It's been fun even as you've been waiting to get the news this week!

OK Here it is:

First off, mark your calendars for next weekend, Saturday August 8th from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. We'll be presenting Nathaniel Franklin with a reception for the artist. Come out to meet Nathaniel and see his work in person.

You might be planning on going to the Folsom Museum on the 8th see Dorothy Smoker in a chautauqua. Come by Studio C first 3:00, meet & visit with Nathaniel and others at our reception and then drive the 9 miles to Folsom to see the chautauqua at 4:00.

Sunday we'll have fresh veggies and homemade breads here Sunday from 10:00 - 4:00. The Farmers' Market is a great place to meet your friends and neighbors, share some recipes and take home some good foods. We're looking for more vendors... just come on over with your goodies and set up next to Sunny.

Speaking of Sunny, it was earlier today but now the rains have come and all is drenched yet again! The New Mexico gourd vine is threatening to take over but the ground is wet so I can easily pull it. I was here at 7:30 pulling the new crop of vines... I pulled for 3 hours 3 weeks ago getting every vine I could see... though I swear that it does grow even as you pull it! I've got another half hour to go to get the last of it. I'm composting it so all that lovely greenery will eventually help the grounds look even better.... still remember some fun things my brother & sister and I did with them when we were younger. Have any good stories about New Mexico gourd vine? Tell your story in the comments.

Inge Bobek's stained glass bottle hummingbird feeder is full of sweet nectar and the hummers are coming in to feast!

Sharon Niederman stopped in with her husband Chuck last Saturday and read during our open mike. She's working on a new novel and read her first chapter, fresh off the writing pad, after her week at the Taos Writers Festival. She is going to be presenting a memoir writing workshop, Writing from Personal Experience: Memoir, Journal, Family History and More, at The Mandala Center later this fall. Check out the links to find out more information so you can plan to attend!

I've got fresh coffee in and will send out another order for chocolate this weekend. All is well here at Studio C! The only thing missing is you! Hope you'll stop in soon!

Blessings~

Christina

Skipping Across Streams

Convergence and conjunctions abound as I figure out how to balance my ambitions with my aspirations and inclinations. My cousin Debbie sent me this YouTube video of an amazing young pianist... watching him play inspires me.

The gallery is vibrating with Yvonne O'Brien's photography show: light, structure, space. Her work hangs through June 22nd. If you've not seen the show please come by to see these images. I know you will be glad you did.

We'll be hanging a new show next week: Facing West. Local artist Nathaniel Franklin brings his sculpture and paintings into the gallery. We're still discussing the date for his artist's reception and I'll let you know what date to put aside as soon as I can.

I'm really proud of the work I've been doing with Des Moines Schools. We're working on funding efforts and just completed an application to the NEA for Learning In the Arts funds. The grant reads well and the program samples look great. I'm impressed with how much we've progressed since our first attempt last year. The NEA is looking at receiving an increase in it's budget of $15 million which would be very helpful. Please support the arts and let your legislators know that you are making arts your priority.

I want to thank Russ Ballew and Karen Anderson for coming out to entertain us last Live @ Studio C! The theme was Compassion and we enjoyed a great show which left everyone talking about the roll of faith in their lives and also celebrating our many blessings. Thank you too to everyone who came out to hear these wonderful musicians. If you've not heard Karen play her harps you simply must plan on coming to our show in November when Karen will be our featured act.

Our June theme is Dear Dad. The date is June 28th and the show starts at 5:30. My sister Karyna Cragin is the featured act and returns with her African balafone, her marimba, and hopefully a guitar and some songs for our piano. Tim Keller is in the spotlight singing his songs and reading poetry or stories from his growing collection. Bring your stories of and for your fathers or father figures in your life and sign up for our open mike. Remember there is a piano here and we welcome all forms of creative expression. It will be a fine summer night to bring a friend with you too. I'm making some nut breads and will have great coffee freshly perked and iced-mint tea. Should be a great evening! Come on out.

Summer Art! class schedule is now available. Next week we will be working with pastel on paper.... this is one of my favorite mediums. Some of my current "in-progress" work can be seen on my Flickr site here. I like to call my pastel work painting since the chalk moves so well on paper and is easily blended. Working with the sticks of pastel usually leads to smudging with my fingers. Edges are places to explore as colors meld or bounce off of each other depending on the desired effect. Call 575-278-3517 or email to enroll or to ask questions.

Chocolate is back in stock. We've got 77% humidity and a 21% chance of rain so we are getting on our rain dancing shoes and looking forward to a prime rib dinner at our annual EMS FunFest dinner & dance tonight.

Life is Beautiful!

Christina

Rain ~ Dancing ~ Answering Prayers ~ Prayers Answered!

It is a lovely rainy sky day, thunder rolling in the distance, gray skies getting closer, and coffee freshly brewed keeping me happy. The rains have just begun falling and we are dancing with gratitude for the much needed moisture and the forecast for more!

Yvonne O'Brien's fine art photography graces the gallery now. We are getting ready for you to join us to see this new show. I'd love for you to come to the artist's reception to meet Yvonne Friday May 22nd from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Coffee will be flowing as well as iced mint tea, along with other goodies we've got to share. I hope you will make time to come celebrate with us. Purchase one of Yvonne's framed prints this weekend, May 22 - 24, and you'll receive a 10% discount.

I'm feeling really good about the way the energy is flowing in the gallery and want to thank Sasha for helping me with displays and other painterly tasks. I'm open, to remind you, Thursdays - Saturdays 10:00 am until 6:00 and Sundays noon - 4:00 pm. 

In the community news: A Community Yard Sale happens on Saturday May 23rd from 7:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. at the corner of Clayton Hwy 87 & Folsom Hwy 325 in Des Moines. It's a great opportunity to buy, sell or trade your trash, treasures & goods. Call Jalane Osborn @ 575-278-3402 for more information. There will be a concession stand with BBQ, hot dogs, drinks & snacks so you can come out, show your wares, buy others wares and get to know your neighbors. Vital Roads is a sponsor of this event which will happen annually from now on.

The other thing you can do this Saturday is to take the Dry Cimarron Scenic Byways Tour. Sponsored by the Folsom Museum in association with the New Mexico Heritage Preservation Month. You'll meet at the Folsom Museum at 8:00 am. Bring water, good walking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen and a hat. (Do I sound motherly?) The tour will take all day so make sure your car has a full tank of gas. Lunch will be BBQ at the Cross L Ranch.... donations are always appreciated. Call 575-278-2122 for more information.

Live @ Studio C! is next Saturday May 30th. We start at 5:30 with the open mike which now has three people signed up. Karen Anderson will be here to play her Celtic harp which leads nicely into Russ Ballew's original songs. Get out your creativity and take up this challenge: write. Write about anything... or if you prefer... draw, dance, sing, or play your instrument. If you can't think of anything to inspire your creation I have a suggestion: Share your experience with compassion. Then sign up for open mike and share it on the 30th with our audience here in Des Moines New Mexico.

So, there it is!

May the Rains fall gently and generously all across our parched lands.

Christina

Dream Time Coming

I've been inspired by the Garden Club ladies and the rows of new plantings ready to put into the ground with fresh smiling faces. As I rode my bike by the school earlier today Janet & Janice had me determined to be outside on this beautiful spring day.... now, late afternoon and I am finally here to share the news.

I'm just about to begin hanging the next featured artist's show: light, structure, space. Yvonne O'Brien's fine art photography will be featured in the gallery from May 21st through June 21st. Yvonne lives in Cimarron, New Mexico. Her work is dramatic and her connection to nature is deeply felt. Her images will be a joy to have in the gallery. Join us next Friday from 3:00 - 6:00 when we host a a reception for the artist. Come celebrate and have an opportunity to visit with Yvonne. Plan to return several times to be with her work. I hope you'll let one of her framed archival pigment prints work its way into your heart. We have made blank art gift cards for purchase... and of course we have lots of wonderful art and crafts for your shopping delight.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow because it is my mom's 75th birthday! She is such an amazing person and I am so very blessed to have her in my life. Her visit two Sunday's ago, when she came up here with my sister to attend the 3rd annual CreativiTea!, was a gift. Her faith in me keeps me buoyant as I continue to work on how to make this gallery out here in the middle of nowhere work.

Last Sunday we had a fabulous meal at the Capulin Country Store during their annual Mothers' Day brunch. The chicken alfredo was perfect. The buffet table was laden with abundant and delicious fare. We'll definitely plan to be there next year as well as holding the 4th CreativiTea! here the Sunday before.... so, for you advance planners out there May 9 & 16 are the dates to save for Studio C & Capulin Country Store. In the meantime keep your eyes peeled for great arts venues, experiences, and ideas. Share them here if you can't wait for next year's CreativiTea!

Live @ Studio C! is just up ahead. May's show features Russ Ballew, local singer & songwriter from Clayton. He's got a new cd out titled Recovery Music Vol. 3. Check him out at his website.  In the spotlight will be Karen Anderson with her celtic harp. Two friends have already signed up for the open mike list. Tom and Linda will be traveling though and will join in the fun. The date is Saturday May 30th and it all starts at 5:30. Send me an email and I'll put your name on the open mike list too.

This weekend, Saturday May 16th, is your opportunity to join the annual Folsom Archaeological Tour. Two times are available, the morning trip leaves at 8:00 a.m. from the Folsom Museum and the afternoon trip leaves at 1:00 p.m.. A free chuck-wagon lunch is available at the museum. Your donations will be gratefully accepted. All donations will support the Folsom Museum. This tour is amazing! Call 575-278-3664 or 575-278-2122 for more information.

Tim's review of the Des Moines Elementary School's spring program I wrote of two posts ago can be read here and here. (It's two pages so be sure to click both to read the full story) I'm beginning to upload photos from sessions we've had this semester at my Art Plays Its Part! photo gallery here. You can tell I'm proud and excited about working with the school to develop this program.

I'm also excited by the future. Studio C is a work in progress. There is a lot to do before I can call it "done" but I offer my artists a lovely space to show and I offer art appreciators a place to stop and visit and take home something special from the heart of an artist. Thursday, Friday and Saturdays I'm open 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sundays I'm open noon to 4:00 p.m. I am happy to open by appointment Monday - Wednesday. Call the gallery at 575-278-3517 to set up an appointment... or plan on coming by Thursday - Sunday. Let me know you read this blog with a comment and I'll give you 10% off your purchase over $10.00. I've got free wireless internet for my customers. I appreciate your business and look forward to growing into a must stop destination ArtSpace here in Des Moines, NM.

Happy Birthday Mom! 

Blessings of Health, Longevity and Prosperity to all~

Christina

Making Wings

Last Sunday Studio C was the site of nurturing and guidance during our 3rd annual CreativiTea! I'd like to thank everyone who gave of their time and heart right here for all the world to hear: Thank you very much for your kind words of support and wise ideas for growth and continued improvements. Your presence is felt as I plan out the Summer Art! calendar and the shows for the rest of the year. We all enjoyed the green chile stew that Kelly taught me to make. Thank you!

Mark your calendars for next year: May 9th which is, again, the Sunday before Mother's Day. We do that because the Capulin Country Store opens their Summer restaurant season with a Mothers' Day brunch and we want to eat there. Mothers' Day is tomorrow and we'll be at The Capulin Country Store enjoying a wonderful brunch buffet. Maybe we'll see you there!

We will be hanging our next featured artist soon! Yvonne O'Brien's photography show: light, structure, space will hang May 21 - June 21. We will be having a reception for the artist on Friday May 22 from 3:00 - 6:00. Mark your calendars and join us for a festive event. Refreshments will be served.

Classes for this year's Summer Art! season: Mask-making, Pastel on Paper, Mural Painting on Canvas, Painted T-Shirts, Papier-mache Sculpture, and something new: ShowTime! ~Putting it All Together. This class will be for the few, the brave, the proud who take more than two classes during the season. We'll be creating a show, a performance showcase, with artwork created by participants. What we come up with no one knows...... yet! Does this sound like fun to you? Let me know in the comments.... I'll be creating my brochure this week so your input may be included. Those who've participated in Summer Art! in the past know that classes are mixed. Youth and adults are equals at the art table and we all have a lot of fun learning together benefitting from the freedom of the innocent and the wisdom of experience. I'm planning on holding morning and afternoon sessions (9:00 - 11:30 in the am and 2:00 - 4:30 in the pm). Yes, I'm shortening them to two and a half hours. Each class will meet three days in a row for a total of seven and a half hours of instructed time per session. I am happy to have students enroll in both sessions if they want to have more time to explore their artwork. Tuition is based on $10.00/hour and there is no materials fee. I am excited about this year's class offerings and look forward to a great season of learning and growing together.

It was my pleasure to drive to Trinidad yesterday to see Tim Keller's photography at the A.R. Mitchell Museum. I car-pooled with Kelly who also wanted to see the show. You can take a virtual trip of the show. It is thrilling to see an artist really take off. Read Laura Brewer's preview of the show here.

Speaking of taking off, read Tim's article about the recent school clean-up (p1 & p2) sponsored by the Des Moines School Rural Revitalization Initiative. Kelly is on the steering committee and helped organize the event.

So, having taken an art break to go see Man of La Mancha at The Schuler Theatre in Raton, I can say good night with a smile on my face and a glow in my heart... I love art and the creative life!

Dream Good Things~

Christina

Listening is an Art!

Live Poetry has changed to Live @ Studio C! and is getting started this weekend! 

Join us for an exciting twist of theatre as Kathryn Engel, from Raton, NM, presents her one-woman show: Two Women of Tennessee Williams right here on Broadway Avenue in Des Moines!

The show opens with our open mike where we give anyone brave enough 1-3 minutes to share their talent. I have a young sax player signed up already so don't be shy. I've invited Tim Keller to give us a short reading of some of his recent works. He's been writing almost daily for the Trinidad Chronicle as he's also writing another article for Western Horseman and preparing for his second photography exhibit at The A.R. Mitchell Museum in Trinidad, Colorado in May.

Spring has sprung here in full force... Tulips are gloriously bright harbingers of the coming green; butterflies of all sorts of colors and patterns have begun to flutter all about and one of my strawberry transplants here at the studio is already blooming!

May is almost here and that means our annual CreativiTea! is near at hand. This year it moves from Mothers' Day to the Sunday before: May 3rd. We meet in circle to brainstorm and review the state of the arts @ Studio C ~ ArtSpace & Gallery on the 3rd. I'll have green-chili stew and corn bread to nourish and sustain the idea exchange. This event is another opportunity for me to say thank you to all the wonderful people who really care about the success of Studio C. All supporters are hereby cordially invited. Please RSVP so we have plenty of stew to go around. Wear your spring hats and bring a sweater... sometimes the gallery is still a bit chilly in May. By having our CreativiTea! a week early we support the Capulin Country Store in their annual Mothers' Day Buffet which opens their summer season of delicious lunches available from 11:00 - 2:00.

Where have I been? 

I know, I've been remiss in keeping the blog current... but, like a dog on a bone and happy too, I've been working with with Des Moines Schools to develop a curriculum-based arts program. We've been working tirelessly to make several projects happen and with the end of the current school year at hand I've been "submerged" in the business of arts program management and teaching... so much so that I've let my blog suffer... even the gallery at Studio C has been feeling neglected (if galleries can feel?! :-))

It's all about art and it all ties together though: I've completed a mask-making class with the 3rd & 4th grades who have been studying a unit on "Self". Dino Cornay has been working with 5th & 6th grade classes on pencil drawings of President Lincoln. Inge Bobek is currently artist in residence and working on a mural project the 7th grade science class. They have been studying plant life and seed germination. Next week Tecolote, NM artist Martin Montoya, will be teaching K, 1st & 2nd grade students painting. They will work with spring flowers and Mothers' day pictures. We've been working with the elementary teachers on their annual Spring Program. Their students have been practicing songs, square dances and the lines for an original production which brings it all together: Spring Flowers for Skinny Horse. Parents and community members are volunteering their time and talent in support of the show which will be on Tuesday May 5th at 7:pm at Des Moines Schools.

So, there it all is... and I'll update you next week with more news.

Hope to see or hear from you soon. Leave a comment here or send me an email and let us know what is springing up in your life.

Joyfully Yours,

Christina

Learning About New Mexico

On Saturdays I come in and listen to NPR radio, which has been airing an amazing program about New Mexico's history, culture and land called: The Shift of Land. The project is funded in part by the New Mexico Humanities Council. It has been fascinating to listen to each weekend. It's so deep in its inquiry of New Mexico that I cannot turn it off or even down while the program airs. I wanted to share it with you all. I know you too will enjoy learning more about New Mexico and/or knowing that this information is being documented and made available to a global audience.

Today, Saturday March 14th, is my one year anniversary of opening Studio C with regular hours. Wow! I actually remember the anticipation and excitement I had on that day last year.

I can't contain my thrill at having made this mark in the work-in-progress that is Studio C and my own journey in building an arts business in this beautiful area of New Mexico. Thank you all for making this possible.

Blessings~

Christina

P.S. This is a special entry to celebrate the day so be sure to read on through the next post: One Year Anniversary. ~ Christina

First Spring Rain

We had our first rain today... the weather forecast had 0 chance of precipitation even as it first rained and then snowed. Just goes to prove that your own eyes are better than any weather prediction.

Coffee lovers come on by. I just received a new order of coffee which was roasted the morning it shipped to Studio C.

I've been out in the world searching for items to outfit the gallery and am thrilled to have found the glass display case of my dreams. Finally I can bring in wonderful things to fill the case. I'll be working on this in the coming months so be sure to stop in and see what is new. I also brought in some wonderful vintage and antique treasures... this business adventure is expanding even as I work to contain certain aspects of it.

I'm so excited about Live @ Studio C!

March 28th is our first show of 2009. Kathryn Engel shines in the spotlight and Dino Cornay is the featured act, bringing his band Colfax Reunion - Unplugged to entertain us for the evening. We start each evening off with our open mike so be sure to sign up and share your inspiration with us! Thrive in creativity, sharing and discovery.

I've booked harpist Karen Anderson to feature for our November Show of Gratitude and as a spotlight act for the upcoming May show.

2009 GALLERY SCHEDULE ~This is a work in progress so check back for updates

MAY - JUNE
Sunday May 5th: 3rd Annual CreativiTea!
May 21 - June 21: Featured in the gallery: Cimarron photographer Yvonne O'Brien.
Artist reception for Ms. O'Brien will be Friday May 22, 2:00p.m. to 6:00p.m.

JULY - AUGUST
Farmer's Market begins in July
June 25 - August 30: Featured in the gallery: Local artist Nathanial Franklin.
Artist reception for Nathanial Franklin TBA

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
September 26th: September Fall Harvest Arts Street Fair:
Saturday 9:00 - 4:00 *sponsored by Vital Roads
October 8 - November 8: Student Artists' Show featuring the work of students in
Summer Art!, Places of Wonder & Des Moines Schools
Artists' reception will be Sunday October 11, 1:00p.m. to 4:00p.m.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER
November 27 - December 27: Holiday Show: Miracles ~ Small Works/Local Flavors
Reception for the artists will be Friday November 27, 1:00p.m. to 6:00p.m.

I'm working on the Summer Art! and Places of Wonder schedules and will be posting them soon. Thanks for keeping in touch and sending me email. I love to hear from you and am looking forward to visiting with you soon.

Blessings!

Christina

Feeling New

What a lovely day today has become!

I have a free ticket to Post Comedy Theater, playing this coming Sunday afternoon at The Shuler Theatre in Raton New Mexico.

Send me a joke and be the first to make me laugh and I will give it to you. See how easy that is? Come on, make me laugh!

That said, I promised that I would give you the show schedule in this post but I've still got work to do on it... so I'll keep this entry short so I can get to it.

We have some beautiful glass jewelry in the gallery and more on the way and I am getting closer to being at the shawl factory. Thanks to Elissa for showing off some samples for us!

Tim Keller, photographer, writer, and now journalist has been expanding his horizons even further with his review of the Raton Youth Theater's latest performance. Check out his blog for the latest details.

Avery Christy, Union County Leader reporter, stopped into the gallery this afternoon looking for stories. He said that his door is "always open" for your stories. Send him an email with your news.

Are you feeling the spring in the air and seeing the green popping up from the earth? If not I encourage you to put on a jacket and go outside to peek at all the new growth beginning to show. I've noticed that there are tulips on the way.

Would you like a little inspiration? Check this out for cool, as in, "Cool as a cucumber."

Keep checking back this weekend since I'll decide the schedule and update this post rather than wait till next week.

Cheers for now,

Christina

Keeping the Faith~

Cold weather has come back to Des Moines and my gallery is chilly so wear a big fuzzy sweater when you stop in this weekend.

I've been really busy during the week working for Art Plays It's Part! at Des Moines School and am in the midst of forming an ArtsTeam to help build the program. Several people are already committed to help and we are still looking for more arts lovers to rock art! We will meet next Wednesday @ 3:30 at the school. If you want to support the arts for our students you are welcome. Send me an email and I'll give you details.

I've also been working with a group of citizens and students to bring a recycling program to our community. We've been making the rounds to our village and the school board to generate support and partnerships.

Then too, I've been thinking about Studio C's Summer Art! classes and the Places of Wonder program which partners Studio C with Rainbow Ranch in Folsom. Please send your suggestions for classes so I can know what you are interested in before the schedule gets set.

Now, last week I promised to let you know our line-up for Live! @ Studio C so here it is:

Our open mike starts each night so bring your contribution and give us an opportunity to shower you with applause. The sound in the gallery is so good we've dispensed with the microphone but I'm still calling it an "open-mike". Ideas to rename it are welcome!

March 28: Features Dino Cornay with his new acoustic group with a Spotlight: Kathryn Engel
April 25: Features Kathryn Engel & her one woman show: The Women of Tennessee Williams
May 30: Features Russ Ballew with a Spotlight: Karen Anderson
June 27: Features Karyna Cragin with a Spotlight: Tim Keller
July 25: Features Tim Keller
August 29: Features Gabrielle Louise
September 27: Feature and Spotlight TBA
October 31: Features Peter Burg
November 22: 3rd Annual Show of Gratitude: Features Karen Anderson

I'm keeping the cover charge at $3.00. We'll also be passing the hat for our featured acts. I'll ask you to consider the price of live entertainment and give generously. Let's build Live! @ Studio C into a great gig that entertainers love to come to. Think of the gas money you're saving! We can look forward to years of wonderful entertainment coming direct to downtown Des Moines, New Mexico as we show our appreciation generously.

Now do you see why I'm so exited about the upcoming Live! @ Studio C? I'm working on the Spotlights and September - November so let me know if you want to be an act or know a great act that I should know about!

Did you know: Studio C carries Western Horseman now! Stop in for a copy and a cup of coffee and I'll let you in on the gallery shows I've got planned. (I'm saving that for next week!)

Till then, or till we meet here, Walk in Joyful Song!

Christina

A Chilly Breezy Day

Hello!

I was just about to sit down to write my weekly update when I realized my sunny day sandals were not keeping my toes warm and that it is truly nippy in the studio! Since my intention is to live a sustainable and green life I'm going to run home to get some socks and a sweater so I can sit down comfortably and give you the news from Studio C this weekend....

Much Better! Now I can really appreciate this fall day and reflect on upcoming events at Studio C while saving on propane when it is not yet necessary.

This weekend our show of artwork from our summer programs of Summer Art! and Places of Wonder will come to a close. This show comes down after Sunday. We'll be hanging The Upper Right Corner ~ Photography by Tim Keller and opening the show with a reception for the artist on Friday October 24th from 4:30 to 6:30. Tim will be giving a free mini-concert to begin at 5:30. We will be serving refreshments and celebrating Tim's first ever gallery show of his photography. Photography is his new passion and Studio C is honored and privileged to launch his career as a fine art photographer. I invite you to come out to Des Moines to join us in celebrating this wonderful new beginning for Tim. Some of you may wonder at the personal way I am speaking of Tim... since he is my best friend and husband I simply cannot help it. His show is gorgeous and I cannot wait to share it with all of you and all of the wonderful travelers who stop in the gallery wondering what they will find at this art gallery in the middle of nowhere.

Stop in today or tomorrow and enjoy the student show and plan to come back on Friday for Tim's opening.

Next weekend is a truly exciting busy weekend starting with Tim's opening on Friday. Saturday the 25th brings us to the second and final event of our first Fall Harvest Festival, the All Things Pumpkin day at Rainbow Ranch in Folsom. I hope you'll stop by Studio C to pick up some yummy endangered species chocolate on your way to Rainbow Ranch in Folsom where the pumpkin fun will be going on all day long! There will be:

Food, fun, and games for all ages
Pick your pumpkin from the pumpkin patch!
You can carve or decorate it right here!
We will have pumpkin cookies for you to decorate too!
Lots of fun activities:
Pumpkin-chunkin, -rolling, and -carrying contests; sack races;
giant bubble making; apple bobbing, and more!!!
On the bonfire:
We will be roasting fresh ears of corn, chilis, hot dogs,
marshmallows, & s’mores.
bbq hot off the smoker with all the trimmings, and of course pumpkin!
(A meal ticket is only $5.00 for adults. Kids eat free!)
Around the bonfire:
Studio C’s “live poetry” and open mike night!
Bring your musical instruments, poetry and tall tales to share!
Wear your Halloween costume if you like...
At dark there will be stargazing!
Hosted by the Folsom Museum.

Then on Sunday October 26th, we also have a half-marathon run for you at Capulin Volcano National Monument! This event is the first of an annual event sponsored by and raising funds for The Folsom Museum.

For more details visit the website: The Folsom Museum

These two events will be annual events from this fall forward. I invite you to tell your family and friends about them and to bring a guest with you. We are excited about growing these community building events. Your participation this year will help us to get off to a great start.

Finally, if you are local, tune your radio into FM 93.9 KRTN Enchantment radio RIGHT NOW! The best live country radio show is on: Little Sharon's Country Cafe, hosted by Sharon Niederman. She brings out the best of real country in a friendly and familiar style that is worthy of gathering with friends and family to listen for two hours of pure musical bliss. Saturdays 2:00 - 4:00 pm... come on out to Studio C where we always are listening to Sharon's wonderful introductions and local news. Tune in from your home, office, shop or car or come on by... whatever you do, TUNE IN! You will be glad you did and be hooked just like I am.

So, that is it for this week. Call me with questions and be creative in all you do. Remember, we are all born creative! Honor this truth in your life and you will see your world expand in joy and wellness.

See you soon!

Christina

Weekend Festivities: Artist Reception for Students & Fall Harvest Festival & Street Fair

Hello Friends and Neighbors!

It is a blustery, perfectly broody fall day here at Studio C in Des Moines, New Mexico. What is it like in your neck of the woods?

I've been so busy taking care of last minute details for our festival Sunday that I was not able to write my update yesterday so finally I'm catching up with my weekly update.

In the gallery our student work is bringing smiles and wonderful conversation with our visitors. I'm still working on some last minute display so there will be even more to see tomorrow when I put out the chips and salsa, sweet breads and brew up a pot of our wonderful big bend coffee roasters organic fair-trade coffee. I'm looking forward to seeing you between 1:00 and 4:00 tomorrow; earlier if you just can't wait! The gallery is open on Sundays from noon to four so do come at noon if that suits you better. Don't forget that I am happy to open by appointment so if you are not able to come during regular hours Friday & Saturdays from 10:am - 6:p.m. and Sundays noon - 4:p.m. then give me a call and we'll work out a date & time that works for both of us. I love to open up for you and your friends!

Tomorrow is our first ever Fall Harvest Festival and Street Fair. I've ordered up a miraculously sunny, warm and still day but, just in case the weather forecasts are right we'll have several vendors set up at Village Hall. Both sites will be sending visitors to each-other.... it's just a two block walk on Broadway Avenue which just happens to be NM State Highway 64/87 also. Wear your yummy fall warmers and add some steps to your walking plan. You'll enjoy a wonderful community event and add to your health all at once.

Notice in the photo that there are two dates for our Fall Harvest Festival? We are kicking things off here at Studio C on October 12th. We anticipate that you will want to come back soon so we are having another party at Rainbow Ranch, where Sunny Williams has an amazing garden and has been bringing produce from on Sundays here at Studio C in Des Moines, Capulin Country Store in Capulin, the First Street Market in Raton and the Trinidad Farmers Market in Trinidad, Colorado just over Raton Pass. Tomorrow will be the last Sunday that Sunny will have her fresh baked breads, produce and beautiful flowers here. Think of the All Things Pumpkin Festival as a final fall festivity to celebrate the wonderful bounty of the summer that is just past.

The wonderful thing about these events is the community cooperation that is happening. Tomorrow's event is sponsored by The Farmers & Stockmans Bank, Rainbow Ranch and Studio C with help from Des Moines Village and Des Moines School Rural Revitalization Initiative. Our event on the 25th brings in partnership with the Folsom Museum in Folsom, New Mexico and the Trinidad Farmers Market. I've attached our flyers for both events with details. As you can see, there is so much our community has to offer... we are proud to show it off this October and looking forward to growing the event with more and more participation amongst our community members.

So, that about does it for this weekend update. Till tomorrow!

Stay warm and cozy,

Christina