The Crow Road

Beautiful Disaster

2012-01-22T14:07:00.000Z

'Beautiful Disaster'

New work , bleach painting on denim.

...And I'm Back.

2012-01-09T12:44:00.003Z

Happy New Year everyone and apologies for being absent for so long. However, I shall more than make up for it now with some delights to get your inspiration whirring.

Now, I don't make New Year's resolutions, but I do have a few things that have to be fitted in within the next few weeks. As most of you know, I have a degenerative spinal condition and unfortunately, it's degenerated a bit more! So, I am awaiting yet more surgery, which should be within the next couple of months. After that, I'll be out of action for ages, so this is my to-do list:

1. Make 14 table decorations for sister-in-laws wedding on Saturday.

2. Finish commissioned collage.

3. Visit the exhibition of Anselm Kiefer's work at The White Cube in London.

4. Knit Simon a jumper.

5. Get a load of small pieces done for sale in the art gallery.

6. Take Maud and Mabel to the Moscow City Ballet production of Swan Lake.

Oh and somehow get my house to look like this.

photos courtesy of E Mag Deco

This is the home of artist, Claire Guiral, aka Miss Clara. Her beautiful work can also be bought here.

Distress To Impress and Don't Spend, Mend.

2011-09-14T12:00:00.006+01:00

Many of us on here are drawn together by our love of vintage style, recycling, upcycling, whatever you choose to call it. I know a lot of artists that use found objects in their work or creative people who decorate their homes fabulously, using only charity/thrift shop buys.

However, there are always a few who rise above everyone else for their astonishing skill, creativity and vision. Below are some of my favourite designers, who take the discarded and forgotten and turn them into something fabulous.

First is a designer Gem (NattyBoho), from Suffolk, England, whose beautiful designs are in the style of tattered, Dickensian and punked up Victoriana. Beautifully tailored jackets with bustles and fabulous Dodger style hats in silks and lace. Introducing.......

Naturally Bohemian

Gem's designs and beautiful photographs can be found on Etsy and Facebook
All images courtesy of Naturally Bohemian.

Next we go across the pond to Alaska and enter the wonderful world of the Slippery Slope Bloomer Co.

Designer Jess, creates incredibly unique underwear using upholstery fabric, which, when you get to my age is exactly what you need!

She is also inspired by the illustrations of John James Audubon and draws his ornithological images onto some of her designs.

The photos used to model the pieces are also a visual feast. Pretty, grungy, tough, yet always feminine.

All images courtesy of Slippery Slope Bloomer Co.

Other sites of interest- Gibbous Fashion

Do You Think He'll Notice?

2011-06-28T11:26:00.004+01:00

Having settled nicely into our new home, we now need to start thinking about decor. At first we thought we'd go for the nordic shabby chic look that I love, but, I'm finding the all-white look just a tad bland. Plus, we are an incredibly untidy family and the place just looks grubby, so I think an injection of colour is needed.

Now this is where we stumble a bit, as Simon likes to play safe when it comes to decorating. He's a 'Magnolia' man, that generic cream-coloured paint beloved of lazy decorators everywhere.

Anyway, I was thinking that maybe I could pull off the, "Oh that? It's been in my wardrobe for years!" ruse, but with....turquoise paint. Stay with me on this......

Ok, we'll break him gently with a couple of nicely distressed kitchen cupboards. He'll quite like those and then we'll graduate to a chest of drawers, that we might get away with.

... but we're stepping onto marshy ground with this one....

(We actually have some wooden panelling on our stairs)

No, I think we've lost him now; there will be a very assertive, "No, bugger off"
Ha, but he won't be able to resist when I welcome him home from work like this, in my beautiful turquoise, yet tastefully distressed hallway............

I'll tell him he can have one of his photographs up too......

So, there we have a little taste of my new fancy. I'll let you know how I get on.
TTFN................

Photo source... 1, 2, 3 (others unknown.)

Lucifer's Photographs.

2011-06-02T10:37:00.003+01:00

We're very proud and excited, here in the old homestead, as Simon has been asked to exhibit his photographs in the shops of the infamous shoe makers, Jeffery-West.

They are renowned, worldwide for their beautiful, hand tooled shoes and grace the feet of some very famous men.
For the first 8 weeks, the photographs will be in the Leeds shop; decorated in fabulous Victorian/ gothic style, Si's images should fit in wonderfully.

After that, they will move down to the London shop, where Si will be having a private viewing.

You can also read the story of 'Lucifer's Boots', a darker take on the Elves and the Shoemaker, with fabulous illustrations from John Welding.

To coincide with this event, Simon is having a giveaway on his blog, 'the fallen angel social club' Every 6th new follower of his blog will receive 6 postcard style photographs, signed by the artist. Giveaway ends on 6th June. Do we see a pattern here?

Images courtesy of Shadowshow

Train Song

2011-05-31T21:08:00.001+01:00

Inspired Remnants, Curious Dreams Blog Hop

2011-05-02T09:31:00.002+01:00

The lovely and very talented Kerin Gale has started a blog hop where you can meet other fabulous artists and also sign up for her online classes, aswell as enter giveaways.

Kerin specialises in working with epoxy clay, with fabulous results. Examples of her work and others, can found in her beautiful book, Inspired Remnants, Curious Dreams.

To join in the blog hop, write a post about the book or classes on your blog or Facebook and leave a comment on Kerin's blog here. There is also a Facebook page where you will have the chance to show off your own creations.

I already have the book and it is stunning; a visual feast and very inspiring.

Fallen Angels

2011-04-27T13:27:00.001+01:00

image courtesy of Shadowshow

2011-04-25T16:37:00.003+01:00

The Harbour

Stung!

2011-04-18T10:19:00.001+01:00

I'm fickle with my affections when it comes to material things. Today's new love is Swarm. They have the most beautiful things made from old canvases and tapestry.

I feel a new project coming on!

The Path

2011-04-09T08:41:00.004+01:00

I recently submitted a piece of artwork for a book and although it wasn't successful, I'm still pretty happy with what I created. The theme I chose was 'My worst fear'. That fear is something happening to my children.

I used both of my own children in this piece, which made it more poignant for me. You can see some of the photos from that shoot here.

I wanted to base it on a fairytale genre, eg. always stay on the path, never go in the woods. My daughter, Kitty is wearing a red coat and my son, Nico, a red hooded top. There are obvious nods to Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel.

There are four canvases, each revealing a little more of the children's journey through the woods.........

Waifs and Strays

The children are walking safely on the path.

Not Alone

The boy sees something off to the side and points it out to his sister.

A Very Dark Shadow

The children leave the safety of the path and go to investigate, forgetting the warnings of going into the woods.

Forsaken Again
The path is now empty. The children have gone.

2011-03-26T11:59:00.000Z

Just found a blog by Annalea Hart with some lovely tutorials for re-using old cardigans and embroidered cloths. You can find the cardigan one here.

Lampshade slipcover

Ok gang, now go dig out your cashmere!

Maud & Mabel

2011-03-25T11:18:00.000Z

Sorry I've been remiss about posting for a while. We have moved into our new house and it's wonderful, but it has taken up valuable blogging time! I will hopefully be back soon with a proper post, but for now, here are some new delights on Maud & Mabel.

Antique Scent Bottles

Pottery Bird Whistle

Muslin Baby Smock

Cigarette Card Album 1939

Edwardian Glove Stretchers

Cold Comfort

2011-01-11T23:47:00.006Z

I thought it was about time for an update on our two favourite elderly ladies.....

Mabel knew christmas had arrived when Maud said that she might turn on the second bar of the electric heater.

Of course, they always used to have a roaring log fire in the old days...........

........but wood and coal became so expensive and since they had to let Seth go after that unfortunate incident with their great-niece, Olivia, well........

.....things haven't been the same since and the poor dears are reduced to living in one, large and draughty room with insufficient heating. (Mabel still hasn't forgiven Maud for giving Seth his marching orders and who can blame her?)

They are in desperate need of boosting up their income by selling off various knick knacks from the vast attics of their home. So lets see what they have for us today.

Antique Baby Gown

Vintage Huckaback Towel

Vintage French Book

Victorian Needlecase

Vintage Faux Pearl Brooch

Vintage French Postcards

Maud & Mabel would be most awfully grateful should you wish to purchase anything, or even just for stopping by. They are also not ashamed to admit that after Christmas eve, the gin level is a little low. (Mabel should never have left Maud on her own.)

Maud & Mabel

Love In A Cold Climate.

2011-01-06T09:22:00.004Z

As you know, I'm having a love affair with all things Nordic, so this week I shall be posting some links to my favourite blogs that reflect that style.

First off is Franciskas Vakre Verden or Franciska's Beautiful World. She is a photographer and writer for the interiors magazine Maison.

Filled with beautiful imagery this blog is a real inspiration and if you head over now, she is giving away a collection of beautiful, creamy handmade lace. (Click here for post.)

All photos courtesy of Franciskas Vakre Verden.

The Eleventh Hour!

2010-12-18T16:24:00.005Z

I have been a little unwell recently. I was rushed into hospital with a suspected mini-stroke and had to stay in for a week. Glad to say, I am now home and making a good recovery.

However, this left me very little time to arrange christmas stuff and even less time to work on my submission piece for Seth's book. Details here.

My piece involved doing a photo shoot with my children, Kitty and Nico and today was my last chance, but the weather couldn't have been more perfect.

These are some of the extra shots I took of them against the beautiful, wintry backdrop of Boughton estate.

Kitty needed no encouragement to get in front of the camera, especially when I said she could wear my original victorian petticoat. Nico, on the other hand, had to be bribed with £5, but it was worth it for such beautiful photographs.

I Pray You Hear My Song Of A Nest.

2010-11-28T10:03:00.000Z

Getting very excited now, as it's only a couple of weeks until we move into our new home. You can see it here. The kitchen needs some work. I shall eventually take out those horrid units and have free standing stuff instead, but that will have to wait a while.

I've been indulging in lots of interior design porn, as you can imagine, so here's a few inspirational images. The Nordic shabby look is still winning at the moment!

These images are all from Jeanne D'arc Living

I also love the grey/blues of this look, but it may look a little cold in reality.

(image from Birger et Mikkelson)

I have some deluded fantasy that my many collections of junk/treasure will be sorted into something aesthetically pleasing like this. Ha ha!

Taken from the fabulous book, etc by Sibella Court.

Ok, time for coffee, cake and oh, is that my new Country Living magazine there? ............

Tales From The Edge

2010-11-14T08:15:00.001Z

Well, its been a crazy time here as I've had to get ready for 6 days of craft fairs. I did one at Barton Hall yesterday which went really well, but I hadn't taken in to account, the fact that people would actually buy the stuff, so I'm having to continually make things to re-stock! Ah, Jo... business woman extraordinaire!

Anyway, to see my messy work space, head over to Seth's at The Altered Page, where his chapter of The Pulse this week is ......

Meet lots of new artists and see where they create.

As today is Remembrance Sunday, I'll leave you with some photos of my Dad, who fought in WW 2 and was a Normandy veteran. I love seeing him looking so proud when he was marching.

John Henry Archer 1924-2004

Lest We Forget

The Great Knitting Project

2010-10-16T08:45:00.003+01:00

It's been far too long since my last post, but things have been a bit hectic here. However, I did manage to finally get my knitting group up and running (only 2 years late!).

After getting a bit fed up of my needle challenged friends asking me to knit things for them, I decided they needed to learn to do it for themselves and so The Great Knitting Project was born!

Tuesday evenings and Thursday mornings and so far it's going well.

"Tracy wondered how long it would take to knit herself a belly dancing outfit."

"Juliette looked up hopefully when Jo opened the fridge door. "Is she giving us wine, or another flippin' cup of tea?"

Becky looking far too excited about knitting. This is what it's come to ladies!

Juliette pretending she was knitting a blanket, but still unable to tell the difference between knitting and crochet, bless her!

The lovely Tracy, being a good girl and getting on with it.

Since this first night, we've been getting together every week and so far it's been a great success. Sometimes there is more gossip than knitting, but it's very bonding and often therapeutic. Most of the women are quite surprised at how relaxing it is.

I'm very proud of my new knitters and one or two are even beginning a pattern for the first time. (I sometimes have to deal with a small woolly crisis in the playground at pick up time, which is quite funny. Yes, you Rebecca! )

Anyway, I thought I'd leave you with a few sites that are great for free knitting patterns, so you can go off and begin your own Knitting Project, if you haven't already.

The Vintage Knitting Lady

Skiff-Vintage Knitting Patterns

Knitting Pattern Central

The Daily Knitter

This is a link to the webshop of a friend of mine who knits fab and funky things.

It's All A Bit Woolly

......and last of all, let's not forget the fabulous

Guerilla Knitters!

I think that's enough to keep you going. So, Knitting Nellies, get out that project that's been sitting in your work bag for the last 3 years and get those needles clickety clacking!

I expect an update of all your projects!

Gin and Cat Food

2010-09-08T10:57:00.004+01:00

Yes, dear readers, alas poor Maud & Mabel are running low on gin and cat food. So let's see what little delights they have in their shop, because if Maud doesn't get a snifter before bed she'll be unbearable!

Gorgeous vintage baby nightgown

Vintage French, handmade child's dress.

Vintage French photograph album.

(Sold)

I had to raid Mabel's bedroom for this next lot. Trying to tear her away from her book of Hollywood gossip was no easy task, I can tell you!

(Sold)

Mmmm... no wonder, however, dear Mabel still dreams of Cary Grant sweeping her off her feet. (It wouldn't take much, she's none too steady these days!)

A very ornate vintage compact. (Far too ostentatious for Maud)

Vintage French Letter (stop sniggering in the back!)

Beautiful French cabinet card.

As you can see, the poor cat is looking a little peaky.

Chin Chin!

A Village Affair.

2010-08-26T10:43:00.004+01:00

Saturday was the first of the Craft Markets in a tiny village near to me called Warkton. It has been organised by Deanne and Michelle who, like me, are keen to start a handcraft revolution. (or revive an old one!)

View from the village hall

I didn't do as well at this market as I normally do at some of my regular markets, but I think that was because this was because the visitors were more of a traditional craft fayre bunch. Not sure creepy doll badges were high on their shopping lists! Sometimes that just the way it rolls! I'm sure as word spreads about this monthly market, there'll be even more visitors.

Anyway, it did make me realise that I may have to adapt the things I sell to appeal to different markets.

Take a browse through the photos to see some wonderfully talented artists and crafters.

Gifts of Nature Workshop. Fabulous wood turning from Sue Cattell.

My new recycled fabric-covered notebooks

The Crow Road stall (me) and yes, yes, I know I need to work on a proper display. I'm doing it ok?

Bizzie Lizzie (aka Lesley)

Lovely painted furniture, mirrors etc. but she is also a beautiful fine art painter and below are some of her lovely cards of her village scenes.

Yankee do-Little Delights. A fabulous idea from our resident american, Meghan. She beautifully packages ingredients for traditional american cookies and brownies. (She also kept us going with samples she had made earlier. They were delicious)

Angel Jays

This lady does the most gorgeous knitted scarves in fine merino wool, decorated with tiny beads and at such a reasonable price. Check out her website.

Cute little angels.

Lovely jams and chutneys from Hedgerow Preserves.

Beautiful crafts from Button-It

Quirky Boots handcrafted goodies.

It was a lovely day; my mum came to keep me company and we thoroughly enjoyed chatting with the other stall-holders and having cups of tea made for us by Deanne and Michelle. I look forward to the next one.

Photos courtesy of Deanne and Michelle.

French Revels!

2010-08-11T08:16:00.008+01:00

Well I'm back from from my fantastic holiday in France with Rainey J. She is really lovely and such great fun that I felt like I'd known her for years.

My trip didn't start too well as I got lost on the way from the airport. A slight pronunciation difference led the taxi driver to drop me at Dinard, not Dinan! After finding a very kind woman, who phoned the taxi co. for me and explained things, I finally arrived in the right place, where Rainey was waiting for me.

Rainey in her beautiful little apartment. Click here for a lovely story about this and a beautiful painting.

Dinan is a beautiful, medieval, walled town and every part of it is picturesque. The buildings are so crooked that they look like they shouldn't be standing at all.

We visited, art exhibitions, fleamarkets, cathedrals, roamed the streets and hit the bars at night. Our favourite bar is run by a lovely man and friend of Rainey's called Alain. (More on that later!)

Ok, enough chit chat, here's the photos.

View from the castle walls that surround the town.

The street where our favourite pub was.

Me guarding the gates against Irish invaders... such as this one....

"Let me in! Let me in! I need more sewing supplies and a martini!"

Ok, now we're going to go somewhere really special. This cobbled street winds down and down to the edge of the town walls. Just down here, on the left is a magical place. Come with me gentle readers, whilst I take you on a journey of french haberdashery delight..........

Choosing one's treasures is a very serious business!

I would have loved one of these antique sewing boxes, but they were not for sale.

Here is the link to the website of this little shop of wonders. Yes, she sells online!

As you can imagine, after that we needed to sit down and recover.....

La grande évasion!

2010-07-18T16:33:00.003+01:00

Well my lovely readers, it's only one week now, until my trip to France with Rainey J. After our last unsuccessful attempt to enter the country, whereby she was arrested for being drunk in charge of Steampunk supplies, I am happy to report that she managed to knock out the customs man, pick the handcuffs and escape to freedom!

So, we are trying again on July 26th..... preparations are taking place.

Rainey: "Hi Jo, are you looking forward to our holiday?"

Jo: "Oh yes Rainey, it's going to be so relaxing. I hope you're not doing anything special so that you look fabulous when I see you. I want you just as you are."

Rainey: "What me? of course not Jo." (Please, Mary mother of God, don't let my hair fall out.")

Jo: "No, me neither Rainey, I will meet you for the first time, warts and all!" ("Just another day in this sulpher mud bath and hopefully the small pox scars won't show.")

Jo: "Not going to the gym then, so you have no wobbly bits?"

Rainey: "Hahahaha! As if!" ("Just another 2 hours on this contraption and she won't know what a big ass I've got.")

Jo: "That's ok then. We'll both be completely natural. Lovely!"

Seth's Buried Treasure

2010-07-15T10:33:00.008+01:00

Seth Apter at The Altered Page has come up with a great idea to introduce bloggers to each other.

Today all participants will re-post their favourite post from their own blog. Seth will put up a list of the blogs on his page and voila! Lots of cool new blogs to go and visit.

My favourite post is the one I did last year after a very difficult summer. I'm happy to say that those particular problems have been resolved and we're back to being a normal dysfunctional family again. So for anyone who is going through a very difficult time, just remember....

"everything is transient, all things must change"

First posted 24/08/09

The Lost Summer

This is a series of small images I have made that relates to the rather difficult time we have had over the past few weeks. each picture is created on an original Victorian holiday photograph, again to symbolise summer.

Things now seem to be improving and as someone pointed out to me, "nothing is permanent; all things must change."

The Lost Summer

Family

This image incorporates a piece of beautiful glass that the children and I found on a walk in the fields, along with the last of the buttercups.

Son

For my beautiful son who has Asperger's, who frustrates, exhausts, enrages and delights me.

Bloom

This one is for my beautiful daughter as she prepares to leave for university and my hope that her heart will soon mend and she becomes again the funny, confident, lovely young woman I know she is. (A little Georgia O' Keefe symbolism going on here I think. This was pointed out by a good friend and I think she's right!)

Drowning

There were times when things were overwhelming.

Peace

Lavender; the herb that I use to try and restore calm and peace; something that we have had little of this summer.. This image depicts one who's had enough and is longing for peace.

Harvest

This represents the end of this summer, the last of the thyme, (the end of this time) the dying moths and the gathering in of my family after overcoming weeks of heartache. (Hopefully!)

..............

2010

This is my beautiful Kitty a year on....

Image courtesy of Carole Kelly Photography

Still Pimping.

2010-07-11T12:17:00.001+01:00

'My Boy Hazlitt'
(For sale on Etsy)

Introducing Maud & Mabel Vintage.

2010-07-07T16:00:00.006+01:00

Maud & Mabel is our new shop on Etsy, set up by me and my friend Billie. Hopefully we will have plenty more goodies in stock soon.

Maud: "We're getting a little cluttered dear. Do you think we should have a clear out?"

Mabel: "Yes Maud, perhaps we could even sell some of it. Everyone's doing it I hear."

Maud: "Sell it? I think mummy would think that rather vulgar."

Mabel: "Well mummy isn't here and the price of gin and cat food is extortionate!"

Maud: "Very well, dear. Let's have a rummage."

More Shameless Plugging!

2010-07-06T07:46:00.001+01:00

I've finally got all my little bits and bobs that I normally sell at the craft fayres, on Etsy.

Wooden brooches

Funky Retro Coasters

Vintage lace flower brooches or for your hair.....

England's Dreaming

2010-07-04T21:20:00.005+01:00

Detail of 'England's Dreaming' showing original 1902 medal celebrating the coronation of Edward Vll.
(and lovely lace from Alicia, hand dyed by me with peony flowers and rusty key!)

Now for sale on Etsy

Work In Progress

2010-07-03T22:18:00.004+01:00

I'm doing a series of works on book covers at the moment, so here's a sneaky peek. There is a lot more work to do on them, but so far I'm pleased. That in itself is a miracle as I usually loathe everything I make, have lots of tantrums and throwing fits and vow to take up juggling instead. (Mind you, stomping on balls could very therapeutic!)

Anyway, I digress.......

I love the way these look all together, even stuck up with packing tape!

Photograph courtesy of Simon at the fallen angel social club

Glass magic lantern slide bought on my trip to London with Penny from Sparrow Salvage.

'Bloom'

Mummy Knows Best.

2010-07-01T10:52:00.004+01:00

My daughter Catherine (Kitty) has just finished her first year at university and now has to move out of halls and into a shared house. (Do you remember how much fun that was?)

Anyway, I'm getting all excited, with the gleam of decorating madness in my eye. Kit, however, doesn't seem to have inherited that gene. (I'm hoping it's laying dormant, ready to emerge soon!)

Whilst I'm perusing Anthropologie , Flea Market Style and Etcetera she rather lamely adds that all she needs is a pair of curtains. Just curtains? I think not!

Gorgeous hanging chair, but very expensive. Time to dust off that macrame book!

Love this throw, again not cheap, but a version of this I can make myself, whether Kitty wants it or not, because Mummy knows best. (For now.)

This type of thing is my vision for student living.....

.....but you just know it's going to be like this.....

But who really cares when you're 19, beautiful and having fun! Just curtains it is then sweetie. x

Mona Innominata

2010-06-09T18:38:00.005+01:00

This is Simon's latest, stunning photograph. You can see more of his work at the fallen angel social club.

In Disgrace.

2010-06-05T20:36:00.009+01:00

Image courtesy of Simon

The winner of my less than successful caption competition, because she was not as disgustingly rude as some people!!!!
is..........

The moderately naughty Deborah Bohm Widup.

on Rainey J. (but as she was so very inventive, she deserves a little something)

.......and Simon?......

Crow Road Goodies!

2010-06-03T21:40:00.008+01:00

I'm finally ready to do my first blog competition and giveaway. I've put together a few Crow Road goodies, including :

5 gift cards
2 ceramic magnets (i can change the smoking Clara Bow image if you don't like it)
1 vintage lace brooch
1 organza brooch
1 steampunk wooden brooch

(Yes, I know that's a lot of brooches but I couldn't decide which ones to put in, so I put all!)

1 beautiful old book with a gorgeous cover and illustrations. To do with what you will.
1 sweet, hand sewn, vintage doiley little hanging what-not.

Plus, if there's room, some scrumptious English chocolate. All this packed into a fab, very old, Ovaltine tin.

An eclectic mix, but something for everyone and it's free, so don't moan! : )

Right guys and gals here's what you have to do........

Write a caption to go with the photo below and the funniest one will win the stash! Bear in mind I shall ask Simon to help and he has a very wry sense of humour.

Oh, and whoever manages to write a funny caption that doesn't involve a phallic reference will get a bonus of a "Nun's Having Fun" book. Ha, let's see you manage that!

Closing date is 6th June.

Titania

2010-05-27T09:51:00.011+01:00

'Sacred Heart'

I was commissioned by Nicola of Murano Silver to make one of my dreamboxes and I loved the image so much I've used it again to make a collage. (Image from Izabella's collage sheet 'Poison')

'Titania'

I know a bank whereon the wild thyme blows,

Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows,

Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine,

With sweet musk-roses and with eglantine:

There sleeps Titania sometime of the night,

Lull'd in these flowers with dances and delight;

And there the snake throws her enamell'd skin,

Weed wide enough to wrap a fairy in.

Shame On Me!

2010-05-24T11:15:00.006+01:00

It recently occurred to me that I have never done a blog giveaway despite having taken part in many and winning 3!

So I shall reciprocate and my next post will give you all the chance to enter and win.....something! I'm not yet sure what you'll win; I'm still working on that.

I like the photo caption competition like I won (ha ha!) on Tristan's blog Enchanted Revelries, so I think it will be that format. So keep your eyes peeled, your ears keen and minds sharp. Back soon. x

The Floozies Are Off On A Jolly!

2010-05-18T10:18:00.015+01:00

Bonjour my blogging buddies.

Well, times have been a little hard and dreary lately,

I know, I'll get in touch with Rainey; she'll know what to do!

Jo - "Hello. Rainey, I'm a bit cheesed off at the moment. What can I do to cheer myself up?"

Rainey - "Hello Jo, I know the very thing. Let's go to Dinan in France. It'll be great!"

Jo - "That sounds wonderful, but what about the children?"

Rainey - "Ah, hush now. Haven't they got their daddies to look after them?

Jo - "Yes, you're right. Ah, I can see it now.........

.....coffee in little french cafes

.....a beer or two..

...maybe a little.....

Rainey - " No Jo, there'll be none of that!"

Jo - " Ahem.....No, no, of course not, I was only joking"....

Rainey - "let's not forget treasure hunting...

...and a few glasses of red wine of course...."

"Hurrah! France here we come!"

Jo - "...and no Rainey, you can't bring your bike"

"Quick, it's Jim and Simon; they're on to us! Pedal faster!"

There's a party at the Doll's House.....

2010-04-13T09:08:00.011+01:00

Would you like to come to our party?..

There are already guests inside...

Here's one peeking out of the window...

We keep a watchful eye on the children..

We even have a nanny and they can stay for ever..

and ever...

in the Doll House

poem by Margaret Attwood

The dolls used in the collage are ones I
found on ebay and are on wood, but
Kristin at Retro Cafe Art has the same

ones in paper cuts. Check them out here.

Send Something Sweet

2010-04-10T08:31:00.008+01:00

I love that my friends are all branching out and starting
their own business.
Good luck Angie, I think this is a brilliant idea!

Textile Artist- Billie Stevenson

2010-04-01T21:56:00.003+01:00

I'd like to feature a good friend of mine who has been very quiet about her considerable talent up until now.
Billie is a textile artist who is often commissioned to create large scale art pieces. In particular, the London based office of the charity, Jeans For Genes quickly snap up her canvases made of denim scraps.

A lot of her work depicts well known London landmarks and have a definite trendy Brit Art feel to them.

As well as her fabric collages, Billie also does upholstery. She has a huge collection of retro and vintage fabrics, (I know, I've drooled over them!) and uses them to transform old junk shop finds into something funky and fabulous.

Tired old cinema seats.......

......... transformed into retro chic!

Billie is still in the stages of setting up her website, "Olive May", but I'll be putting a link on here as soon as she's ready and I'm sure she's going to be fabulously successful!

Giveaway At The Josie Baggley Co.

2010-04-01T14:15:00.005+01:00

My lovely, crazy, talented friend, Rainey (see below) is having a blog giveaway, so head over to The Josie Baggley Company and leave a comment to enter the draw. Be quick, you only have a few days left!

Haiti by Hand

2010-03-21T07:24:00.001Z

Thanks to Marina at Fanciful Devices for posting this on her blog. Most of you probably know of the money raised on Etsy etc. for the people of Haiti, well, Haiti by Hand is a group of women creating beautiful arts and crafts to earn their own money. However, they do need supplies, of which most of us have in abundance!

Follow the link to read about the work of these women and how you can donate any art supplies.

Cards Now on Etsy. Finally!

2010-03-10T14:13:00.002Z

One of the card images available on Etsy. "Sideshow Sal", for when you want to say more than just Happy birthday!

Greetings Cards Now On Sale!

2010-03-02T22:12:00.001Z

I've been very remiss about adding some of my stuff to Etsy, cards being one of them. However, I've just been asked if I would like to sell them at my local gallery, which is very cool! These are some of the images; not everyone's cup of tea, but mine anyway.

Raccoon Penis Bone Anyone?

2010-02-28T13:30:00.004Z

If you need some altered art supplies or love old curiosities, then go to Alicia's Altered Bits shop. Not only does she have pages of gorgeous digital collage sheets, metal charms and embellishments, but also lovely oddities such as the racoon penis bone. No assemblage is complete without it!

You will also find Alicia's own beautiful artwork for sale, as well as freebie images.

July 1921

2010-02-03T09:08:00.002Z

Simon seems to have found his muse again. This is his new, stunning photograph.

July 1921

Reproduced with kind permission from Simon at, "the fallen angel social club".

Fleamarket Floozies!

2010-01-28T13:17:00.006Z

Logo by Rainey J. Gibney

at The Josie Baggley Co.

As you know, myself and some blogging buddies are doing the thrifty challenge that dottie angel started.

Well the lovely Debrina set up the Barter Circle and I've now set up a sister page with Rainey and Kirsten on Facebook called Fleamarket Floozies. All welcome to join, if you want to play the game.

In A Pagan Land

2010-01-18T11:17:00.003Z

In A Pagan Land

Summer's End

Both new listings in my Etsy shop.

Brace Yourself!

2010-01-15T13:21:00.011Z

I've been feeling a little low over the last few days, so I'm doing this post in hope that a bit of irreverent self- mockery will jolt me out of my gloomy mood.
As some of you may know I have a spinal condition called scoliosis; it's a lateral curvature and rotation of the spine. I won't go into the horrors of all the surgery I've had over the years; it's too dull for words, but I did want to do a little piece I am calling, "Orthopedic Fashion Through The Ages."

I suppose I better start with some images that show the results of scoliosis first

This is not my own x-ray, but near enough.

It was 1976 and I was 11 when we first discovered this and I was duly sent off to a children's hospital for non surgical treatment. After being stretched on a rack type contraption (I kid you not!) I was sent home in this:

People...I give you the Milwaukee Brace worn by every spinally challenged adolescent in the 70's.

(This is not me)

I had to wear this from the age of 12 to 16! The most formative years of my life and I looked like a cyborg. It was only my rapidly acquired sense of humour and good right hook that saved me.

My mother, on the other hand was rather pleased. Any burgeoning sexuality was put on hold. It wasn't exactly an alluring look, except to those boys with latent fetishistic tastes! Or so she thought! Ha!

Fast forward a few years to the surgery; my insides look something like this:

But, more importantly, the brace designs had moved on; they were smaller and sleeker and I wanted to get my hands on one!

The Boston Brace

See what I mean? I was 27 at this point so could carry this sexy little thing off with no problems. Unfortunately, I only got to wear it for 3 mths. Medical knowledge had advanced a lot and we were no longer required to wear scaffold like structures for years. Ah well!

After, my final surgery I was given something to wear that I think had been procured in an Adult Shop.

This is me wearing the original. Now, look at the image below and tell me if you can spot the difference? Jo vs Dita Von Teese. At last, disability just got sexy. No more Quasimodo, from now on I can be Esmerelda!

On a serious note, ideopathic scoliosis affects adolescents more frequently than people realise. Boys can have it, but it is more prevalent in girls, approx. 1 in 30. If you have pre-pubescent children or grandchildren, a simple test will alert you to any possible curvature. (See here) I'm very keen to promote awareness of this condition, so please go to this link if you would like more information. Scoliosis UK

This is me today, the first image is one I steeled myself to show, because I hate the way I look, with scarring and deformity, but that's just how it is.
The second image is by Simon, and I love it because it makes me look and feel good naked.

I may remove this post when I'm appalled at my wallowing of self-pity, but it can stay.......for now.

Sometimes Always

by Simon

a belief in spirit..

2010-01-12T09:32:00.006Z

a belief in spirit.., originally uploaded by done.and.dusted.

Another fabulous photograph from my partner Simon.

Si on Flickr
(No part of this image is to be used without the artist's permission. Thanks)

Vintage Tattoo Style Canvas

2010-01-11T14:00:00.002Z

I've just finished this painting for my nephew and have since had a few people ask me to do a similar one for their own children. Just wondering whether to do a set of vintage style tattoo images on canvas for sale on Etsy. I could then personalise them when they are ordered.

I thought perhaps, the old rose and heart, skull and roses designs too. But they have to look kitsch and cool, not cheesy!

What do you think?

The Fickle Muse

2010-01-10T08:34:00.012Z

Do you have the January blues? Has your Muse deserted you and you can't get no satisfaction? Are you having a....

THEN YOU NEED TO VISIT
THE ALTERED PAGE.

SUNDAYS JUST GOT INTERESTING!

It's All A Bit Wooly!

2010-01-09T08:24:00.001Z

I'm featuring my friend Catherine today, a funky knitter who's website and shop can be found at the link above.
She has a section called Goth baby which I particularly love. But, there really isn't anything she can't knit.

I have a pair of her gorgeous wristwarmers,which have been a godsend this winter.

Caravan Style

2010-01-07T09:56:00.036Z

Lovely video and song for the shop Caravan. Enjoy!

Oh Bokja! Be still my beating heart!

For those with a passion for the new "Luxecycling", check out

these beautiful examples of modern patchwork.

Unfortunately though, they don't come at homespun prices, but
for eye candy and inspiration, they are fabulous!

Remembering Arch

2010-01-02T20:41:00.015Z

I took these with a little Blackbird Fly twin lens camera. It's using a redscale film which often gives apocalyptic looking results.
They are not great photographs, but I love the square format and the strange effects that unexpectedly turn up. There always seems to be an old worldy look to them.

With a little bit of photoshopping, I may be able to turn them into something special. (With some help from Simon!) Or they can be used as textures for something else.

They were taken in a village called Geddington, a mile up the road from us and in Weekley, an even tinier hamlet.

My brother Andrew (Arch) died on New Year's Eve 1990, and is buried in Weekley churchyard, so we always go on that day to pour a little whisky on his grave!

Second Hand Rose

2010-01-01T09:24:00.003Z

Ok today I start my challenge of only using handmade or secondhand goods for a whole year. The next time you see me, I may look like this! (Not made my mind up about the beard yet though)

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T21:59:00.003Z

Happy New Year Blogging buddies! May you have love in your hearts, peace in your soul and whisky in your glass. Cheers!

Christmas Secrets

2009-12-27T10:05:00.006Z

Secret Sunday on The Altered Page

Thou Art Thy Mother's Glass......

2009-12-26T08:54:00.004Z

Thou art thy mother's glass and she, in thee, calls back the lovely April of her prime.

I finally managed to finish my mum's christmas present in time. Just! It didn't turn out quite as I wanted it too, because I hadn't left myself enough time. That's something I'll remember in future. However, mum loved it; it made her cry. Mission accomplished!

Hope you all had a lovely day yesterday.

Love and Peace

2009-12-23T14:46:00.002Z

Only two days to go; I have just finished baking the mince-pies, the holly and ivy are draped over the mantle and I'm on my second glass of sherry!

To all my blogging friends, thank you for your kind words and support over the last few months.

Whatever you celebrate this yuletide holiday, may it be a happy and peaceful one. Love to all, Jo x

Ancestors 2

2009-12-22T08:24:00.002Z

Continuing down the family tree, this photo shows my Great-grandmother, Leah Weavell and my grandmother, Dora.

I can't see any resemblance to me yet!

Ancestors

2009-12-17T13:29:00.006Z

Just discovered this beautiful photograph of my great-great-grandmother. I'm hoping to do create a fabric collage for my mother for Christmas using this. Apparently she was a lovely, gentle woman, but unfortunately, I can't remember her name! So I'm on a mission to find out more about her.

Thanks to my cousin, Jill, I now have a name for my lovely ancestor. She was Mary Anne Jennings.

Grrrrr!

2009-12-16T09:50:00.003Z

Is anyone else having a problem with Blogger at the moment? For the last week, I have received no email notifications when someone posts a comment on my blog. So, please forgive me, dear and faithful friends if I haven't responded. If anyone can help, I would be eternally grateful! In the meantime, beware and.........

Sunday Morning

2009-12-13T08:26:00.012Z

Ok folks it's........

so......

Then head over to Seth's, Altered Page

Groovy Baby! Yeah! 2

2009-12-12T15:50:00.006Z

Remember in a previous post I showed the tiles I had made with retro images from 70's teen annuals. I also mentioned the the way the artists portrayed teenage girls in some of the stories. I can only assume they were living out their fantasies on paper! Here's why.........

Revised Christmas List!

2009-12-11T13:12:00.004Z

My hypocrisy knows no bounds; for those of you who saw the original, previous post, you may have noticed that more things are creeping daily on to my list!

I have now added something from the holy trinity of DeMeng, Wilkenfeld, and Mika. Not a cat in hell's chance, but a girl can dream!

Santa Baby...... I've been an awful good girl

2009-12-10T12:35:00.014Z

The other day Simon asked for my christmas list. "Honestly, there is nothing I need. Go to the charity shop and rummage for old junk and books for me. I'll be happy with that", I replied. I did mean this, but once I sat down with pen and paper, there seemed to be an awful lot more I'd like in my stocking after all!

So here are a few things on my list to Father Christmas.

DAB Roberts Radio

Bike Boots

Pyjamas and slippers

Shabby, vintage Madonna statue

My favourite perfume

Rare, expensive and apparently the best interior book ever!

secondhand jewellery

Always room for another happy hooker!

(I need to brush up on my crocheting skills)

Something by Mr D.

or Ms. W

or Mrs. M

So, what's on yours? And have you been naughty or nice?

Falling In Love Again.....

2009-12-09T10:04:00.026Z

No, it's not what you think. I am having a big love affair with all things Nordic and Scandinavian. Like most people, I love the shabby chic look for interiors, but recently I have come across lots of blogs from Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands. The beautiful, clean, simplicity of their decor, combined with rustic touches got me quite excited, I can tell you!

I had always been interested in the Gustavian look, but now it's become a passion. Not sure how we'll cope with white walls; the light is very different in England, and I have a very messy family. But I shall persevere!

Favourite places at the moment are:

Jeanne d' Arc Living

Stipje

Jouluntaikaa

Tine's Kreative Hjorne

Madame Petite

Country by Mail

Images from Jeanne d'Arc Living magazine

Knicker Problem Solved!

2009-12-07T20:48:00.008Z

Feeling funky days!

by Joan McGowan-Michael

Feeling sexy days!

Ummm....Feeling fat and chilly days!

The Retro Knitting Co.

...and we don't want the man in my life to feel left out!

Dottie Angel Challenge!

2009-12-07T16:39:00.008Z

If you haven't discovered dottie angel yet, then you are in for a treat. It's a blog full of warmth and humour, arts, crafts and lots of homemade. recycled loveliness!

Having been raised by a mother who made everything (we even had knitted vests!), I've always got enormous pleasure and satisfaction from creating something from nothing, or making a piece of junk look beautiful. Sooo....
I have decided to take the plunge and join Tif and the others in this challenge, starting 1st. January 2010. Check out her blog for full details.

Oh and any advice on how to overcome the knicker problem would be much appreciated!

Secret Sunday on The Altered Page.

2009-12-06T07:49:00.004Z

Wow, that week rolled by too quickly! My blog posts are repeated as I haven't had time to do my own. Seth Apter has hi-jacked my blog! Hope you're listening Mister!

2009-12-05T08:24:00.002Z

Sorry I haven't posted for a while, but I've been so busy doing Christmas stalls and making these little felt hearts. They've been selling really well, so every night I'm having to make another batch!

Secret Sunday

2009-11-28T23:33:00.005Z

Don't forget to head over to Seth Apter's blog, The Altered Page tomorrow, to find out more about your arty comrades, as part of the ongoing Pulse project.

Blog Sharing!

2009-11-25T18:28:00.006Z

Thought it might be nice to share a few of the blogs that I enjoy following and hopefully introduce you to something new.

Today it's a lovely arts and crafts blog called Fleur de Boheme, written by Kirsten from Denmark. She is also having a blog give away at the moment, so you could have a chance to win this lovely brooch.

Groovy Baby! Yeah!

2009-11-21T14:20:00.005Z

There were certain girls magazines that my mother would not let me read when I was an impressionable pre-pubescent. I had outgrown "Twinkle" and Nurse Nancy; "Mates" was too racy, with it's photo stories of teenage girls wearing badly applied eyeliner and mooning after spotty youths.

Jackie was almost acceptable, but I was finally allowed "Mandy" and "Bunty". In it were wholesome girls who loved nothing better than to care for their pets, bake biscuits and play hockey. If they did go out it was to a "discotheque" with the boy-next-door.

Or so my mother thought....... In reality, the artists depicted young women who either looked very plain (see above), or wanton sex kittens with pouting lips and thrusting breasts a la Brigitte Bardot! There was no question which one I wanted to grow up to look like!

So this is a little retro homage to those glorious 70's artists.

If Only!

2009-11-20T09:27:00.003Z

Just a quick note to everyone who has commented on my new banner; I wish that I had painted it myself, but it is a public domain image from....... (you're gonna be surprised!)...... the one and only...

MR. VINCENT VAN GOGH!

It's called "Skull With Burning Cigarette".

Good to know the old masters still have a few tricks up their sleeve.

Bare your Arty Soul To Dr. Seth!

2009-11-18T10:04:00.003Z

Seth Apter is conducting a huge project to find out what makes us tick. Head over to The Altered Page for more details. If anyone has his finger on the pulse, he does!

Tarot Deck- The Hermit

2009-11-11T17:30:00.006Z

This is my contribution to another collaboration I'm doing with Alicia and the gang over at Altered Bits. I still have to do Justice and The Chariot. Oh and Christmas! Still have to fit that in somewhere! : )

....and thanks to Lumilyon's post, I can do this with it! I'm sure the novelty will wear off soon, but for now, it's great fun.

Treasure From Overseas!

2009-11-10T11:30:00.019Z

I have been taking part in an Altered Assemblage round robin for the last few months and my original piece finally winged it's way home across the Atlantic. It arrived beautifully changed by the people who worked on it, Alicia, Kerin and Rachel. I'm so thrilled and will always treasure it.

Finished Altered Assemblage

the beautiful inside..

Alicia added the Charlottes to represent the four women who took part in the challenge.

However....... not only did Alicia post back my piece, but inside the box, it looked like this!

Treasure!

Beautiful ATC's by Alicia

The legendary Altoid Tin (always wanted one of these) and gorgeously wrapped chocolate.

Very cool lab stuff.

Oooooh.... what's in this lovely box?

Tiny treasure!

Simon got quite excited about this; apparently he used to use these as Flash Gordon's rocket when he was a child!

See!

Gorgeous wrappings that can all be used again!

I even loved the newspaper wrapping. It's great to see the different sort of food that's sold in other countries.

So there you have it; my box full of treasure, from Alicia, who's kindness and thoughtfulness is overwhelming.

Thank you x

Art Swap!

2009-10-27T09:37:00.006Z

Fancy receiving lots of fabulous artwork in return for making only one piece? Then let me know if you want to join in and I'll send you the details. There are some great artists taking part; it would be a shame to miss out!

This is the tin that I made and is now winging it's way to Jill in New York!

Anthropologie Hits The UK

2009-10-25T10:13:00.008Z

After finally getting around to reading last weeks Sunday Times, the Style magazine revealed that Anthropologie are opening a shop in England. Hurrah!

However, it is in London, which to us Middle Englanders may as well be New York as we rarely travel further south than Northampton!

But exceptions may have to be made and these are a few of the reasons why............

Ooooh!....

Aaahhh!...

Mmmm!...

Oh yeah baby!...

More, more!...

Umm, sorry folks, got a little carried away there! It's a sad day when I am turned on by the sight of covetable homewares!

The Bicycle Basket Bazaar

2009-10-22T10:19:00.001+01:00

OCTOBER FLYER FRONT, originally uploaded by The Bicycle Basketeer.

Recycled treasures, arts and crafts, all sold from bicycle baskets. Brilliant! Next bazaar on Halloween at The Fishmarket, Northampton.

Art Challenge

2009-10-21T14:08:00.006+01:00

I've been asked by Alicia to take part in an Art Challenge, where we have to make one thing and post it to the person at the top of the list. We then have to invite 6 more people to do the same, but putting our own name at the top. (sounds confusing, but it's not!)

Hopefully, if everyone does it, we should all receive about 36 pieces of original artwork. How cool is that?

Here's my contribution: (actually I think it needs a little something inside too)

Sea Dreaming (inside)

Sea Dreaming (outside)

There are still a couple of places spare if anyone would like to join in, although you have to be able to get your piece off in the post within a week.

Barton Hall Artists... continued

2009-10-11T09:33:00.017+01:00

Carolyn Bushell

Today I'm continuing my featured artists with the very talented and gorgeously funky Carolyn Bushell.

Carolyn is an artist who draws and paints musicians, past and present. She captures incredible movement and expression in her work that make the paintings so realistic.

(All images the property of the artist and not to be used without prior permission. Thank you)

Ramones

Anarchy in the UK

Marilyn Manson

Not dark yet, but it's getting there.

(Bob Dylan)

Robert Johnson

Method in my madness

(Cobain)

Unplugged

John R. Cash

Pan..and the children shall follow

(Jim Morrison)

Greek Tragedy

(John Lennon)

monica

2009-10-09T13:34:00.001+01:00

monica, originally uploaded by done.and.dusted.

New image by Simon.

Featured Guests On Altered Bits

2009-09-30T09:25:00.006+01:00

Thanks to Alicia (again!) for having me and Simon as her featured artists on her site Altered Bits (Don't forget to check out her own wonderful artwork!)

Arrival Of My Lucky Goddess (and goodness, do I need it!)

2009-09-29T20:59:00.006+01:00

She's here! A huge thank you to Robyn at Art Propelled for my beautiful goddess. She is even more gorgeous in real life! Not only that, but she also put in lots of other goodies that are traditionally made in South Africa.

I think my real luck though, comes from having met such lovely, kind online friends such as Robyn!

Just noticed that I have the same top on as in the previous photos. I don't always wear it you know!