adriana christianson

back in the studio ? Wellllll...kind of ...

2012-01-25T23:20:00.000+11:00

OK...I havent had a chance to work in the studio at all this week !!Bah humbug !!I have ,however ,been teaching children how to throw and hand build at Box Hill Community Art Centre
as part of their wonderful Holiday Programme .Here's a few snaps of the amazing facilities..........

the Ceramics Victoria Office is also at the centre, which is quite handy...
The Pottery Expo is beyond creeping up on me it is now STOMPING around in my head.....!!
Im beginning to think of whose work i would really like to bring home this time ....its one of the first things I do after i have set up my display..mooch around ,have a chat and a snoop...I suspect Im not the only one !
the next few weeks i will feature a few of the participating artists.....
Here's a two to begin with ...Eve Close has a great Facebook page, and Zac Chalmer's website is a beauty!! Make a cup of hot beverage ,or a chilled one..and have a look/see..and maybe you can plan to make a purchase and support a local artist?
SO, back to the studio..the people at Mud Colony are in their studio's Im sure ....Im planning to throw ..REALLY !! And the enormous community that is Our Creative Spaces have all sorts of beautiful
work to share with you as well.....
what are you doing today ?
Cheers

Adriana :)

Is it enough?

2012-01-25T09:51:00.000+11:00

Hey, good morning..
UK potter/maker Anne Castano has some interesting things to say in her latest blog post HERE
"Is wanting to make just enough" ? Yeah, Anne it is

Cheers
Adriana :)

Helen Stephens-All Hand Made Gallery

2012-01-23T19:06:00.002+11:00

Just received my February copy of Australian Country Style in the post...(thanks to my daughter for the subscription xx) and there is a beautiful article on Helen Stephens and Hand Made Gallery...

Just lovely...Im really excited that ceramics is really pushing its way front and centre..
grab yourself a copy and have a read..or just applaud !
Cheers
Adriana

Delft...lft lft

2012-01-19T16:20:00.000+11:00

Never quite sure how to spell it..the beautiful Dutch blue & white ware...sigh.
I have JUST now received via the postie, my order from Harriet Damave in Amsterdam.
I found her on Etsy,while snooping around after putting my store together..

Have a look at this.......

My beautiful leaping rabbit brooch, in the most adorable presentation i have seen !
Harriet does it so well, from the complimentory greeting cards,to the personal note..to the fluffy pure cotton to protect her work..and last but not least ..the little blue ribbon !

I swear I spent over an hour trying to decide which one to purchase...I am truly in love.

I am now REALLY looking forward to doing Vipoo Srivilasa's Blue and White painting workshop in March even MORE so !!

Hope the sun is shining on you all today,beautiful summers day in Melbourne
Cheers
Adriana

GAAAAAAAAAAAH !!

2012-01-18T21:54:00.000+11:00

Yes GAH !!
Have had a lovely interview published on the Creative Womens Circle Blog!!
Im so very excited !! Thanks to Tess McCabe and her AMAZING community...
hope it reads ok ? Let me know what YOU think...

ANYWAY !!! Back to work !!!...........remember I made a bazillion tiles a few weeks ago?
Haven't had the time to decorate them, was whisked away to the Victorian Alps for a few days to enjoy floating in Lake Catani ,wiggling my toes in beautiful rivers,sleeeeeping in a glorious comfy bed..and eating...and eating...swear i ate my bodyweight in EVERYTHING !
Thanks to the lovely Kate for a fab holiday !!
I HAVE decorated SOME of the tiles..see?

Cobalt and red underglaze...half of the tiles are the teeney tiny ones...hmm, about 8-10cm ? I really love
these and am looking forward to firing them ,they are so weeney they fit in the palm of my hand.

I have been dreaming about a new range of work that Im hoping to have ready for the Pottery Expo at Warrandyte 25th & 26th Feb...more bright colours..squared off beakers and bowls..kind of Danish inspired..anyhoo, have a look at what other potters are thinking about,and possibly DOING in their studio at
MUD COLONY
Maybe you could join in ? Doesn't have to be every week,doesn't have to be an essay!
Just a line and an image showing us the happenings in your space ...
I was inspired to begin Mud Colony as Im part of another blog called Our Creative Spaces...
its quite amazing and well loved...check it out
See you
Adriana :)

Yeah baby

2012-01-04T16:33:00.001+11:00

Ok..im actually back in the studio making tiles,terracotta with white slip and cobalt or red underglaze decoration. Regular size and baby weeney ones. Just rediscovered the stick blender for mixing slip..love it. No way im sieving this lot !
Making tiles is a fairly laborious process, like most things with clay!!
Rollout the clay, cut the tiles (this time without the snazzy borrowed tile cutter),lay them between
boards...wait as that greengrocer used to say ...'cuppladays'...then...wipe the edges,back front..like washing a baby really!!
THEN..the slip over the top,

I usually just use casting slip, lazy girl that i am..well today i ran out..BOO !
So..decided to just make my own....as per above...then after using it ..realised WHY i actually use casting slip ???? IT DRIES REALLY QUICKLY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
UGH !! So then it took AGES and AGES for the lovley creamy homemadey slip to dry..dammit..

they reminded me of gingerbread...

Anyhoo.....have had a lovley day in the studio,the stupid heatwave is GAWN and its a wee bit cooler in Melbourne..so we can get on with our lives ...not cry and lie on the couch in 40degrees(or is that just ME?).
I cleaned up after myself and even hosed out the studio...can you see ALL THAT CLAY under the table ?

..that ,my fair friends, is what 50 BAGS of clay looks like!! My birthday present 50 bags for my 50th birthday..!!

And here's the studio looking out to the garden...just because !
Hope you are having a bit of a break from all things normal...um, oh you know what i mean !!
Cheers
Adriana

AND the winner is...........

2011-12-21T12:38:00.002+11:00

Apologies for the lateness..a family member has had a trip to hospital emergency with appendicitis...
just popped home for 5 seconds.....all good, no worries,surgery today sometime !

Thanks for all the comments ,all of them quite touching i think and very kind, BUT after consultation with the family we decided on the following post, as it really captured
everyone's attention !!! ..................

Elaine Bradleysaid...: " NOBODY is reading this except ME, all the other messages are definitely fake - or spam. YEP that bowl is mine. MINE I say!!
Adriana what a brilliant way to celebrate your birthday and to honour those you have loved and lost. SO you. Have the best best best day. You deserve it totally and only a potter would 'get' how exciting it is to get such a heap of clay. ps if I fail to score that bowl, I will still addle you with wine in Adelaide."

So my dear Elaine , email me your details and the bowl will be rolling your way!

Happy Christmas Everyone...
give those people you love a hug....

Look forward to chatting and catching up on all
the summer GOSS in Feb 2012
Cheers
Adriana :)

BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY !!

2011-12-20T09:00:00.001+11:00

Well my dears its my birthday!!! And can I say a quite significant one....

My very special birthday gift that i requested is arriving today...and i better be fit when it does arrive.....
can you guess what it is ??
50 bags of clay.... half a ton !!! Im damn excited, will be like a little pig in mud !! One bag of clay for every year of my piggy life !!!
Yep, 50 TODAY !!
So many people are mortified by the half century,but you know what? I feel like its such an honour..get a grip all you people having sad attacks about being OLD! SO in memory of all those who I have loved and lost before they got to celebrate their 50th...im having a GIVEAWAY....

You will need to leave a comment here on my blog ,and i will choose a BIRTHDAY WINNER tomorrow morning at 9am !!
Its a lovely size 22cm wide x 10cm high....
I WILL SHIP ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD !! (that's if there is actually ANYONE reading this !!)
So hop to it, be quick...im off to the beginning of a fun day...
Cheers (3?)
Adriana

All done !!

2011-12-18T20:45:00.001+11:00

Thanks to all who came to visit and purchase from my Studio Sale today and yesterday !! It was great success all round, I loved catching up with everyone,and chatting to people who just dropped by... All is packed up and put away...that's it for me until the new year....and to top the day off, a very tired little postie delivered my goodies that I purchased from Queensland potter Kathryn Mitchell......so damn excited...beautiful work Ms Mitchell !

You can purchase these at Kathryn's Etsy store HERE

and her Facebook page is HERE

TODAY is the last to order in time for Christmas delivery ! Or if its just for YOU (and it SHOULD BE ), then browse away...delivery is FREE within AUSTRALIA this month...

Cheers..

Adriana

and again !!

2011-12-18T09:56:00.001+11:00

Here again today Studio Sale ..7 St Georges Crescent Croydon, Melbourne !!
10am-4pm ish...
AND as promised..Frittole !!!

big CHEERS....
Adriana

its today !!! studio sale

2011-12-17T10:00:00.001+11:00

STUDIO SALE THIS WEEKEND !!

2011-12-14T18:00:00.002+11:00

Im sure that you are all so sick of hearing about the sale at my place, well hope is in sight ..its on THIS weekend....

I really had little idea how much work went into doing something like this !! Two days of pricing work(which is an angst all of its own !),then there's the road signs (oh forgot about those ,you say!)..then the setting up ...cleaning out the space..finding tables,cloths,props....the bags ,the tissue paper,the float, business cards..(plenty,phew)...just ONE more firing..I know I know, I promised I wouldnt,actually I tell a lie its 2....
And i just have to tinker a bit with a painting....make a few more cards...and ..Im READY !!!

The garden is ready.....well..overgrown,but friendly !!

The sign is made...even though my 'S' is upside down.....doh !!
What are YOU up to in YOUR studio today? Winding down I hope ?? Us potters in the Southern Hemisphere are heading towards SUMMER !!!!! Woo Hoo !!
My little community blog Mud Colony is having its last post (not as in THE last post..trumpet etc) for the year !! So if you would like to join in and show us how you are finishing off the year 2011 in the studio go HERE
You've got until Saturday 17th midnight EST (Australian Eastern Standard Time) to contribute..then it will be back mid January !!

Hope your having a spiffing week..and do drop in and say hello if your in Melbourne !
Cheers
Adriana
ps..oh just because my brain goes at a million/bazillion miles a minute...just HAD to tell you about this great book...I have been trying to save it for our camping holiday,but failed totally immediatly...
'Conversations with Creative Women' by Tess McCabe...from the fab blog Creative Womens Circle
where the book is availible online..it is an interview/chatty style book talking to 14 women in business..two of them are Pip Lincolne (Meet me at Mikes) and Lucy Feagins( The Design Files)....great read !!

Online Etsy Store......hee hee

2011-12-12T17:54:00.000+11:00

ETSYETSYETSYETSYETSYETSYETSYETSY...etsy..etsy

So anyway,like I was saying..(to myself)..Im fast running out of fingers and pies..but I have an Etsy store..yup..
So if your a mad Etsy-ite..im there..and if you just sigh...like that...SIIIIIGGGGGHHHHH.....
I have pretty much the same stuff available on my website !!
And if your STILL siiigggghhhhhing...then its just time to LOG OFF and go make a cup of tea..for goodness sake , do get a grip..people need you ..
Be kind to yourselves
loving cheerio's
Adriana ..really !

WARRANDYTE POTTERY EXPO 2012

2011-12-09T09:21:00.001+11:00

ARE YOU READY ?
Yes , i know that we have JUST had the Fed Square Expo..BUT..applications will be finalized by CHRISTMAS for the 2012 Warrandyte Expo !!!
Did you just fall off your chair? Well pick yourself up and email/phone Jane Annois and book your place..or seriously YOU WILL MISS OUT!! Not tricking....

"The Pottery Expo at Warrandyte will be held for its 12th year on the banks of the Yarra River.
Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 February 2012 10am – 5.30 pm Melways ref:23 F11
50 ceramic artists from around Victoria, NSW and Western Australia come together to present innovative, high quality ceramics in this annual outdoor celebration.
Visit the potters over the weekend to talk about their work, discuss the individual styles and buy a unique piece of artwork or extraordinary tableware or a magnificent garden feature.
Our guest artists this year will be from Western Australia. To entertain our visitors, fine musicians will perform during the weekend.
Food and coffee will be available."
For more information:
Jane Annois 0422942216
jane@potteryexpo.com
www.potteryexpo.com

Cheers
Adriana

Where is YOUR work headed?

2011-12-07T23:40:00.001+11:00

Something I start to think about around this time of year.

Its getting closer to Christmas and for us lucky dudes in the Southern Hemisphere,also SUMMER,which then all collides with the end of the working year,and the beginning of the long summer break for those lucky enough. ... all being squeezed down this little tube of busyness !! Gah!

ANYWAY , I do start to think about where my work is headed,what will I keep making, and what will I NEVER make again ?? Im never very clear on what it is exactly that I want ..seems clearer what Im pretty sure I DONT want ! Im not mad on making anything that loses my love..its like this......
Im sitting throwing on the wheel thinking how beautiful this piece will be when its finished,whether or not it will have banding,be a lustre piece or an every day piece dum de dum de dum..on it goes....then comes the loveless ..ugh, HOW many of these am I making? Am I finished?..ooh look , the raspberries are ripe might just go nibble a few...get it?

Is that how it is with you?
So, i do feel like Im 'nutting it out ' a bit more lately,and really enjoying my time in the studio and developing two more distinct ranges, but funnily enough if I get bored with that, it may just all change !!
So TODAY in my studio , I will be re-assessing-doing a bit of a stock take..and then I'd say warming up with a board of beakers ,then some nice big fat bowls..Im thinking red w lustre banding design...

What about YOU? What are you up to in your studio today? Check out what a bunch of people are doing in their studios today at my little community blog Mud Colony ,maybe join in ?
And then there is all the OurCreative Spaces people, beavering away-should see all the stuff they make....might have a bit more time by the river and the camp site to tinker on textile type projects!!

thanks for tuning in...
Cheers
Adriana

Federation Square-Pottery Expo !!

2011-12-05T12:19:00.001+11:00

What a day !!
The Pottery expo was launched by Jane Annois in February 2001 ,and has been going from strength to strength for 10 years ! This is my third Fed Square Expo and I love every little bit of it ..really!
Pack the car the night before..every little thing.Last minute list by the bed..wake up 2am, scribble down something that is almost illegible in the morning..except I did work out what is was..then left it at home ...water bottle !!!
7.30am arrival for a 10am start..usual stuff,unload on my crappy little trolley( that i keep promising myself an upgrade-never happens)try to stop bits falling off..work out where my stand is..thanks to the Fed Square attendant Kate..then a double check w Jane..check map, 'oh THIS way up?' much better...lol.
Quick hellos as we are all frantic to unload & park car for the day..Fed Square parking ALL DAY $12 ..LOVE IT .
Run back to The Atrium...more hello's, some squealing ..then set up...
AGAIN,more promises to myself to have plinths and more gallery type set up..as I unfold my tables and black cloths..tinker tinker tinker....grab a cup of tea ..and Im off !
I had a little run around and took a few snaps,not as many as I would have liked to ..but here are some anyway...

The very lovely Marymae Trench was right next to my stall, Marymae is one of the potters from The Stonehouse Gallery in Warrandyte,and has been Jane's 'winglady' for the Expos'..

Look !! The smiling Ray Laurens from Northcote Pottery, with some treasures from SMALLpieces
I did LOVE the exquisite small pieces of Yen Yen Lo...flying out the door at SMALLpieces, go and get your little hands on some of her beautiful delicate work!!

Bridget Bodenham setting up ....

Lynley Northcott's delicate cups and teapots...all that lustre..yum!

Truly Southurst and her #1 kiln assistant Ryan....so prolific

Minna Graham from the Daylesford Clayspace ...

Jane Annois stand..without Jane..just for a minute...she was off settling everyone in and doing her thing!

Avis Gardner being inundated almost before we began !! Look how pretty those red deco's are ..I want a few !!

Kathy Fahey and Anne Maree Gentile yes Kathy,its a good photo !!

Lisa Scheuarian and Tania Jeffery

The Chalmers lovebirds...

and Max and Fifi from Clayworks....what the hell would we do without them ?
(NOT just the balloons silly !)

and ME !!

I didn't get a chance to photograph everyone,and some photos had the old closed eyes trick(dammit),so apologies to those who aren't included-If you have a good one of you on the day email it to me and I will add it !!
I had such a great day of sales and lots of fab visitors ,only sat down at about 3pm ,which was a big mistake..then couldnt get up again..heres the view from my reclining possy...

AND my one and only ceramics purchase for the day was one of Sophie Milnes' bracelets... coloured blue Southern Ice Porcelain,glazed on the inside..feels divine to wear -which of course I ADORE...thanks Sophie

So kiddies, thats a wrap..now I need to go unload the car,and think about what the hell is next??
Studio sale in 2 weeks....clunk.....just fell off chair...might just have today off !!
Thanks for hanging in there with such a LONG bloggy post,hope you've enjoyed it..leave me a comment fer goodness sake ..
Cheers
Adriana :)

BUT WAIT THERE'S ALWAYS MORE !!!
A few more pics from Jane from the day(glad the system works!)..

Adam Cox being visited by the very lovely Eve Close..

Homesglen TAFE's stand...

LOVE these two pics..Sophie Milne on the left..and Judy Pierce on the right

Here's Jane back at her stand..see how great it looks,set up more like an exhibition? This is our benchmark..this is the WHOLE IDEA..not a market an EXPO !! Sigh...maybe next year ??

those big babies are just gorgeous Jane !!

And Jenny Stokes..check out those little ramekins...

scrumdiddilyumptious..table by Mary-Lou Pittard ,actually think this one sold ?..So damn gorgeous..

Mary Lou deep in conversation..

Erin Kocaj on the right all the way from Canberra !! How great Erin..hope you had a great day!!

Susie O'Shea and her frocks out of clay and Jane Annois ..

Okay, might have to add another whole POST if there are more incoming pics...glad to do it ..send them in !
Thanks Jane for the extra's
ciao AC :)

Well, La DEE Da !!

2011-11-30T22:35:00.001+11:00

No its not Annie Hall, just me !This Thursday in my squeezy studio , I am choosing stock to take to Federation Square Pottery Expo!.

.Trying to work out what everyone will want to purchase is always total guesswork ! Last market I did,, I had my hand on a platter to take, then thought, hmm no will leave it behind..and OF COURSE someone asked if I made plates..GAH !! Its always the way..or do you have it in blue?
Anyway my beautiful new stock cupboard is pretty full as you can see ...

AND i have blue ones..blue plates and bowls..

Here are the yummy red and black stripey ones from last week...

Not sure what else will come with me ...I will bring some of my new cards !! Very happy with those..

Oh look, they match !!
I wonder whether you have had a look at my new little community blog Im trying to build?Its called Mud Colony.... potters talking about what they are up to in their studios on a Thursday,pop over and have a look !! You might consider joining it?The link is open actually until Saturday night !! Or the Our Creative Spaces is another blog I participate in on a Thursday..

Plenty to keep you occupied with ....and THIS Saturday I will be on 'duty' at The Tin Shed Gallery So, Next to the Roundabout Cafe ,at the roundabout on the bridge( 230 Yarra St, Warrandyte VIC, 3113)....10am-4pm possibly painting outside again if weather permits

...and Sunday at Fed Square from 10am-5.30pm
Cheers
Adriana
P.S. ALMOST FORGOT !!!! Warrandyte Market is on Saturday 3rd Dec /9am-1pm as well, Stiggants Reserve..so get yourself a couple of Portugese tarts from the Amici Bakery stand .....drooooool !

Pottery Expo-Federation Sqaure -Melbourne

2011-11-30T09:30:00.001+11:00

THIS Sunday 4th December is the annual Pottery Expo in Federation Square !
I will be there with 35 other potters loaded up with beautiful goodies to purchase..and of course we all LOVE a chat..come down and say hello !!

10 am - 5.30pm...
See you there !
Adriana

Thursday Bloggerama !!

2011-11-23T22:15:00.001+11:00

YUP..Bloggerama..I reckon that's a word ?
Sure describes today's post ....
Remember how on Thursday lots and lots of Creative Type show YOU what we are up to in our studio/workshop/workroom/kitchen table???
MUD is my thing...clay actually !! Is it yours too? Have a look at my other blog MUD COLONY
active every Thursday...

I am working like a little Elf ,throwing,turning , firing (oh the FIRINGS!)..and my favourite of all...
DECORATING!!
Just to complicate matters at this busy time of year, my brain has gifted me a new design!! Well, its kinda the same old same old..you know BIRD DESIGN..that I haven't finished with..but a wee bit different..

Im LOVING the stripey outside-y bits....lets see if i still love it after the gloss firing !
More exciting , is it possible you ask?..
If you have been following this blog this year (arent you great ) you might remember I studio sat for a friend of mine Anne Maree Gentile, while she tootled off to Italy ? Well the 3 painter girls in the Tin Shed Gallery down the hill from Anne Maree's became 2 painter girls -and asked me if I would like to join them in the Gallery? Guess what I said ? GO on.....yeah your right , yes yes yes !!!

So, Next to the Roundabout Cafe ,at the roundabout on the bridge( 230 Yarra St, Warrandyte VIC, 3113)
is where you will find my work alongside Jo Kline and Fiona Fisher HERE is a little post in Jeanette Davisons blog 'isiiad'....(love that blog )

It is open Friday Saturday and Sunday.....drop in and say hello !
Thats enough from me , i told you it was bloggerama......
Cheers
Adriana

Erk....

2011-11-22T13:28:00.001+11:00

Stayed up way later last night than I really should have , in my dressingown staggering down to the gas kiln in the garage...see, I managed to find myself a really crappy sore throat,coughy,owey ears THING ...ugh !
And OF COURSE whenever you REALLY need the kiln to reach temp quickly-it doesnt...
Man , i so nearly just turned it OFF, but in my fog of a brain knew that I couldnt and Fed Square Expo is in less than 2 weeks time..no time to be a baby....sniff.

ANYWAY..there are heaps of Open Studios this weekend in Melbourne..here's a couple...
Nillumbik Open Studios and Alphington Open Studios lots of potters and artists of other mediums flinging open their studio doors to give you a glimpse of their world..go along and support them ,buy your Christmas gifts from a local Artisan this year....not a big department store !!

AND....this Friday night,MADE@The Raglan, the beautiful gallery in Daylesford,is opening its Christmas Show...5pm,I will have some pretty bowls available to put under your tree!

OK, im back to the studio to decorate ..not sure if throwing will be on the adgenda........
Remember to check out my other blog on THURSDAY, The Mud Colony for the weekly update..or maybe you could join in ?
Cheers
Adriana :)

Handmade Cards?

2011-11-20T00:11:00.001+11:00

Okay, so i decided to delve into the world of making my own cards for sale!

 What a big can of worms THAT  is !

 Geepers, all sorts of stuff to stick on ,glue on , sparkles ..cut outs ..now Ive REALLY got you worried..no fear..mine are just plain white card and red or silver envelope,wrapped in cellophane...

see?..

Small cards 10cm AU$3.50 Large cards 15cm x 10.5cm AU$4.50

Interested? These will be available at the Pottery Expo at Federation Square,and also at my Studio Sale 

December 17th &18th...

But if you LOVE them and NEED them now..just email me and I can post them off ..Pronto Tonto...

(real quick)..

Cheers

Adriana 

Mud Colony ?

2011-11-17T09:38:00.001+11:00

Okay..so its Thursday  ,dur, and I have been contributing to a great little blog called  Our Creative Spaces

which I LOVE...its choc full of amazing people making really diverse STUFF..every week they share whats happening in their space

So then I got thinking ...how about a similar space with Ceramics? 

So I have put together a blog called 'Mud Colony'...
works on the same principle but its all about CLAY !!
So if you are a Clay person have a look....its active every Thursday for you to add your link to whatever you are working on today..its could be a blog or a Facebook page...make sure there's  a photo so we can see what you are up to in your studio!!
Here's a bit of what Im working on today in my little space ....



Hmm, bowls, beakers, brooches....I see a theme..

Thursday ? Sharing Our Creative Spaces !

2011-11-10T09:35:00.000+11:00

Seeing as its Thursday, its time for a bunch of us to upload a deep and meaningful post about our studio
and generally show YOU what we've been up to .
A whole bunch of people madly typing and uploading images and trying to think of great captions to go with
them !
So let me show you what Im working on today in My Creative Space..

Terracotta beakers(just because I LOVE making them)..but with a bit of a difference today.
Chatting to the potter Julia Franz at the Pop Up Market last week (we had adjacent stalls),she was telling me about the clever way to get those squiggly lines under yr work.It wasn't something I had done before ,so I was intrigued and couldn't wait to have a 'play'. So here's the results..Im using Cobalt carbonate to decorate them, and they will be that Delft shade of BLUE that we all drool over, or is that just ME????
I cant decide which design to go with,either the sideways bird or the birds head? HELP, please leave a comment , I really need YOUR help on this one !!
ANYWAY..can you see my weeny dog under the table? That's Friesia(as in Friesian cow, the other one is called Jersey-bet you know what colouring he is!), one of my dogs..and here she is after she ran inside to be warm next to the Aga stove...clever girl..

Cheers
Adriana

Pip hoorah !

2011-11-07T21:16:00.002+11:00

The unstoppable Pip Lincolne has published her online magazine 'Good Stuff',its a fab Holiday guide for everything for gifts, diy,decorating, and all sorts of GOOD STUFF !!
Im really excited , as i have an advert in the mag !!! Page 57 !! My studio Sale in December ..all details ..follow the link and sit back with a glass of your favourite or a cuppa...and browse like there's no tomorrow!
Which of course there is ...silly me ...enjoy !!

Cheers
Adriana ....(still hyperventilating ! )

Tiles for SALE online !!

2011-11-06T18:18:00.002+11:00

So as promised , I have put the tiles online availible to purchase!
At this stage they are on my website and will be on the blue caravan site during the week.
Im pretty excited as this is the first time I have listed anything for sale on my own site, I am always being asked whether I do- so 'its time' really,just like Mr Whitlam said ...
Have a look and tell me what you think,I will gradually add more work for purchase once Im sure its all tickety boo !!

Yesterday was the Pop Up Market in Prahran...it was a VERY warm Melbourne day,around 30c degrees
i believe !! Quite warm under cover ,thank goodness it WAS under a marquee.we would have all had the vapours I think otherwise.!! Lots of great stalls ,perfect weather and GELATI..!! Keep your eye on their website for more info on upcoming Markets, they have all sorts of clever events planned!!
Actually I think i may have had some heatstroke ,i did get a bit silly in this pic...

Lucky I know these two lovely customers, both Sheryle and Sharona are quite aware that Im normally really sane..most of the time anyway!!The stall next to me was the extremely delightful and prolific Swedish potter Julia Franz .... and many thanks to Deborah Amon-Cotter for the pic,who is also a potter ..hey I surround myself with good people !!!
Cheers !!

Adriana

MAD ..Melbourne Art & Design Market..Saturday Nov 5th

2011-11-04T22:33:00.001+11:00

Hi All !!!
By the time you all read this i will be sitting at my stall in Prahran enjoying my day at the Melbourne Art & Design Market . Its the first of a series of 'Pop up' Markets ',all different themes.
Here's a Facebook link to some images of participants work

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.246456002071682.80673.239073482809934&type=3#!/media/set/?set=a.246456002071682.80673.239073482809934&type=3It should be lots of fun, it has been SUPER well organised, so Im expecting wonderful things.
Here's an article for you to read about it as well...
So , the car STILL isnt packed..a bit of the old swing tag action waiting to happen..I best go!

See you tomorrow?
118 HIGH STREET PRAHRAN...
How great it would be to put faces to names..
Big Cheers
Adriana

Tiles !

2011-11-03T09:15:00.000+11:00

Yeah...Im pretty happy with the way these tiles came out of the kiln today..

Not sure which are the favourites yet.....

actually.....

Hmm, I think its the cobalt on terracotta ones.....

Which ones do you like the best? I will glue a sturdy brass hook on the back of each tile, so they can be hung as little individual artworks....they will be available at the MAD Melbourne Art & design Market
THIS Saturday 5th November in Prahran..and after that on my Bluecaravan Online Store....have a look and see what we are all up to today in Our Creative Spaces !!!

Cheers
Adriana ..

Lustre banding...

2011-11-02T00:33:00.000+11:00

So ..............this might as well be part 3?
Work has been bisqued and glazed fired..now for the application of the lustre banding.
Firstly the work must be wiped clean..just with a clean cloth..

The the lustre is applied..its like using very thick maple syrup...

I should say that at this stage i have put on my mask and am wearing latex gloves..also the studio is well ventilated with all the windows and doors open...here is a great article on health & safety when using lustres by Joanne De Maine,please have a look if you have ANY intentions of using Lustres..
Next , the piece is 'centered' by tapping it into place,and apply the lustre with the wheel going ...firstly by touching the bowl with the tip of the brush,then when it has made a thin band all the way around I push the brush down to complete the band...

As i mentioned, the lustre is really thick and gooey,but you need a fair amount on the brush to complete a lovely even line/band .

and then ,seeing as I have quite a few to do,its important to keep the freshly banded work dust and grime free..so I cover the bowl with cling wrap..just until loaded into the kiln.,when of course its removed..

The the work is loaded into one of my electric kilns and fired to about 750c...over 7 hours ,nice and slow,especially flatware. Firing lustres is a really smelly nasty business-make sure you take all the precautions required ( remember the article?) !!
..and here's the bowl finished...after firing

and here it is with some of its friends !!!......

and a few little vases I prepared earlier...

The tiles I made in the earlier post are being fired at the moment, promise I will show you a sneaky peek when they're done,Im really looking forward to seeing them as well ...
have a good week..
Cheers
Adriana
ps. Theres always more work to look at on my website......have you been there recently?

Blue Caravan....?...

2011-10-31T23:36:00.000+11:00

Blue Caravan is a great Australian online store.....read about it for yourself , I have been involved as a 'seller'

for just over a year now-and believe that Blue Caravan's Jen Djula must be the one of the hardest working people I know ..this is from their website..

"Bluecaravan supports and promotes

direct trade with emerging and

independent designers.

We insist on ethical production both

locally and overseas, and we love

fairtrade or sweat-free certification.

We believe that objects ‘warmed’ by
designers, artists and artisans have a
quality like no other… and that ‘ethical’
is no longer a choice separated from
style and design.

Bluecaravan is a venue for buyers and
sellers of all things independently
designed and ethically made.

It’s about lovely, interesting and
edgy products - beautifully finished,
made with heart, and bought directly
from the designer/maker.

We are based in Australia, and all prices
are currently in Australian dollars (AU$)"

See? Australian...

Yup...

Cheers

Adriana

OUR Craft Australia De-funded????

2011-10-28T16:53:00.004+11:00

Yup..apparently our federally funded Arts Body Craft Australia will be de-funded as of 2012!

Just ridonkulous..........

this is taken from their blog..

YES..you are seeing RED!!!
That's because Im CROSS about our federally funded Arts body
Craft Australia being DE-FUNDED!!!!
Yup, so as of 2012 there simply will be no Federal Funding allocated ....
The following is from the Craft Australia Blog...
AND if you would like to support them by signing a petition
and find out more details check out their blog

"The ramifications of not having a national peak organisation representing the craft and design sector are significant. 

There will be no visible national portal to represent the work of the many artists, designers, gallerists, curators, writers and researchers working in this field.

Australia will be the only OECD country without a dedicated agency to advocate and promote the work of this area of practice.

The many initiatives that Craft Australia has been advocating for to link craft and design with innovation and industry will be lost.

Substantial digital content about this sector will be lost, creating a significant knowledge gap about our cultural traditions."

Flat out......being Creative

2011-10-27T10:10:00.001+11:00

Ah such a funny tricker i am...
today being THURSDAY is the day that lots of creative types from all over,update their blogs and post a link to here....http://ourcreativespaces.blogspot.com/
Heres what Im up to today in my studio...

Decorating lots and lots of TILES !!!....

these ones are terracotta, white slip & cobalt carbonate which will turn a delicious shade of blue...

The plan is to have them all ready for the terribly exciting POP UP MARKET SATURDAY 5th NOVEMBER IN PRAHRAN , MELBOURNE..
http://www.popupmarkets.com.au/

So there you go , lots to look at , check out the Creative Spaces Blog..maybe add YOUR work !!

Cheers
Adriana...

Creative spaces..

2011-10-20T18:08:00.004+11:00

SO, today was the last day of the last batch of sgraffitto work for this cycle...

And tomorrow will be back to throwing another bunch.....Im thinking those cake plate pedestal thingys need making ,and more bowls..and possibly some platters....hmm should do some fillers....maybe the baby vases?

What a great day, sat outside my studio breathing in all the Springy smells of the Port Wine Magnolia(smells like juicy fruit chewing gum!) and this beautiful rose..its called 'Crepescule '

AND...............
Thanks to the very busy Katy at http://katyintheclouds.blogspot.com/
I have found this extra creative blog..called 'creative spaces'
http://ourcreativespaces.blogspot.com/

Check it out I say !!
Cheers
Adriana

Part two ( I suppose !! ) of Decorating.....

2011-10-17T22:34:00.000+11:00

AH, its been a busy couple of days with teaching keeping me away from the studio and my pots slowly drying out waiting for me to finish decorating !!
So, the banding has been applied and sgraffitto-ed inside and out .Next is the outside decoration
of leaves..and little lines in between..and sgraffitto of the leaves...

then brush away the curly bits of clay ,created by the sgraffitto,with a cheap stiff brush that i have chopped in half !! (Photo not fantastic, sorry!)

Okay, so outside finished,base signed...time for the inside..paint that little bird on...

then the in betweeny lines..I like to think of these lines as little vibrations as the bird settles into its leafy nest !

SO, painting all done...final process, sgraffitto of the birds feathers and leaves in the bowl...

and then....its done...

And this is the story of just the ONE bowl !!
Hoping i have some time to show you all the glazing , and then the application of the lustre banding as well...
so three firings in all.Stay tuned....
Enjoy that sunny day coming our way in Melbourne tomorrow 25degrees !! Whoa !!

Cheers
Adriana

making making making decorate decorate decorate...

2011-10-14T21:30:00.000+11:00

Sigh..
Its been a busy few days of throwing ,and today was turning and decorating..well the BEGINNING of decorating.
First the banding....

THEN the beginnings of sgrafitto.........

my special favourite tool.....an old biro !!.....

And tomorrow will be the rest of the sgrafitto,and possibly the beginning of the brushwork..and MORE sgrafitto.

No matter how hard i try to change my work habits, I always seem to HAVE to decorate everything
all at once.It really does my head in and i end up cross eyed and exausted.So Im trying to pace myself a bit
and wrap work up which can wait..but it still calls me ...'here i am ..it wouldn't take long ....'.

Oh and the wrinkly right hand in the photo, nice little burn covered with clear bandage stuff..gross, I know .
But that stuff is great , I can still throw and do everything i have to .

Will post more pics as the work develops
Cheers
Adriana

Blog lovin'

2011-10-13T13:38:00.003+11:00

Thanks to the kind people at SMALLpieces for the 'blog lovin'

Check out this post,and other interesting posts/work.

SMALLpieces is a gallery/beautiful place within the bigger

NORTHCOTE POTTERY (said in a loud booming voice..with echoes..)

AND if that isnt enough..there is also the scrumptious store

The Vintage Element..above NORTHCOTE POTTERY (did you do the voice in yr head?) has all manner of delicious Vintage STUFF...but all the divine bestest...

Go on..off you go...

Cheers

Adriana

http://www.thevintageelement.com.au/

http://www.northcotepottery.com.au/

http://smallpiecesnps.blogspot.com/2011/10/glitter.html

New Stockist-Craft Victoria !

2011-10-10T17:00:00.000+11:00

The lovely peeps at Craft Victoria are now stocking my work in their shop 'COUNTER"...

http://craftvic.org.au/shop

Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm
Closed Public Holidays
03 9650 7775
Downstairs at Craft Victoria, 31 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Cheers
Adriana

NEW GORGEOUS mini business cards

2011-10-04T18:45:00.000+11:00

HOORAY HOORAY !!
My mini MOO business cards arrived today....I just LOVE them!

How could you not??
I uploaded all the pics myself online with MOO !!

You can upload up to 100 images to have on the back/front of your business cards.........

These are the MINI cards, they have all sorts..postcards,regular cards EVERYTHING!!

And ,can i say, really really reasonable !

Follow the link ,and we BOTH get a discount ..........very happy..

http://www.moo.com/share/676px9

Moooooo !
Cheers
Adriana

december ??

2011-09-30T20:15:00.000+10:00

No, I haven't totally lost my mind....I know its OCTOBER tomorrow..
BUT..I wanted to share a sneak peek at this beautiful flyer for my very first Studio Sale..

See ? So pretty...thanks to my wonderful graphic designer Brascha ...you are a gem !!
Put the date in your diary now !!

Cheers
Adriana

Love that kiln...

2011-09-29T19:10:00.001+10:00

Here's my little workhorse.2 burner natural gas ,brick + cement sheet,ceramic fibre-steel framed kiln.bought it for a song from a generous friend 10 years ago. Fast firing ,fast cooling.yesterdays bisque switched off at 5pm.unloaded at 8.30am next day,back on at 11.00am. Now im warming myself by it waiting for that cone 06- 1220c to go down,nearly 7pm. 8 hour-ish firing..i was browsing my old books today..............

he describes the 'power kiln' .same as this one but no flue -and fired with propane gas.built by david leach.interesting?

Yes.anyway-i love it ,and am understanding its little quirks finally after it has been re-installed and approved again.i would love to hear about your kiln-or kilns you have loved,even if they weren't yours .
Cheers
Adriana

Sisters Market THIS Saturday

2011-09-27T12:12:00.002+10:00

The Sisters Market is ON this Saturday,Brunswick Town Hall 233 Sydney Rd Brunswick
....and if you are in Melbourne and NOT glued to the AFL Grand Final...then come and say HI !
I will be in the main hall 10am-4pm...so actually you could come BEFORE your footy BBQ !!

http://www.sistersmarket.com.au/index.php

See you there?
Cheers
Adriana

Online 'presence'....hello?

2011-09-22T23:32:00.001+10:00

Lately,I have been rattling on about promotions that have recently included my work..and it got me thinking.
About the value of having an online presence with YOUR work. I know your out there ...making beautiful artwork...beetling away..and maybe wondering about this online stuff ?
One of the very bestest (yes it IS a word) steps I took , was to list my work and self on a few very good
websites.
There are a bazillion out there..tricky to choose,these ones are great...and work really hard for me with regular
'feeds' and enquiries.
http://australianceramics.com/home/index.php/Aust-Ceramics-Directory/
http://craftvic.org.au/craft-work/craft-maker
http://www.artwhatson.com.au/
AND , did you check out everyone ELSE'S work? See?
Both the Australian Ceramics Association and Craft Victoria , have free listings with membership (not to mention all the OTHER benefits of joining) ,and ArtWhatsOn has a free trial period, or a 3 monthly fee.
......really.

Be brave....you and your work deserve it
Cheers
Adriana

Nice little PROMO...

2011-09-20T23:10:00.000+10:00

Heeeeyy.. the good people at 'artwhatson' have chosen my profile as one of their 4 featured Artists this month...

http://www.artwhatson.com.au/newsletter/11090541.html

Adriana Christianson

Adriana Christianson is a Melbourne based potter living and working at the base of Mount Dandenong. In her most recent work she experiments with porcelain, developing some new functional shapes and designs. Christianson delights in embellishing the surfaces of her pieces with sgrafitto and underglaze brushwork. Birds also continue to be an enduring motif in her work.

Christianson is currently exhibiting at Made in Daylesford until September 25. She will also exhibit in the Pottery Expo at Federation Square on Sunday December 5 – a showcase of 40 of Australia's best ceramic artists working today.

not bad....
They have a fab website for Artists and galleries...visually beautiful- (dur, its an ART website)and
easy to navigate.
Check it out
Cheers
Adriana

Pippin Drysdale...sigh..

2011-09-17T17:27:00.000+10:00

Double sigh,
Today I ventured to Mossgreen Gallery in Melbourne's South Yarra,
http://www.mossgreen.com.au/gallery/current-poster.aspto have a look at Pippin Drysdales incredible ceramic work.
I was beside myself with excitement before I even arrived-and was not dissapointed.

They are as beautiful in 'real life' as they are in the incredible photography of Robert Frith (http://acorn.com.au/) in the gallerie's glossy brochure.

Enough said....the exhibition closes on the 7th of October....
Cheers
Adriana

time to get BUSY !!

2011-09-14T21:12:00.002+10:00

Well...have had a super dooper rest and now,really , its time to get BUSY !!!
Have had a big clean out in the studio,in the kiln area, some new storage shelves, some great second hand
metal industrial cabinets coming my way....hosed down the floor..ready to MAKE !
Here's a few events I will be participating in the next couple of months.....
OCTOBER 1ST.............. (Grand Final Day in Melbourne !)

http://www.sistersmarket.com.au/index.php

Sisters' Market

2011 Market Dates

Brunswick Town Hall

233 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Saturday 1st October 10am-4pm

Web Hosting by Unlimited Space

AND THEN .......DECEMBER 4TH..

AND .....wait there's more.............

Keep the 17th & 18th December free-

'STUDIO SALE' seconds,surplus,old stock and some new work........

More details to come !!
That's enough for now, you'll never remember all that !!
If you would like to be reminded of upcoming events,pop me an email with your email details and I will send out a reminder. Its going to be a busy few months,hows your diary starting to look?
mail@adrianachristianson.com.au

Cheers for now
Adriana

Updated Website...

2011-09-09T13:10:00.004+10:00

After the whirlwind of putting a solo show together , i have taken a bit of time to do all the other things that have been waiting patiently,one of them being updating my website.

So 'tick', done. I have uploaded some new images ,and added a few new 'links'..

www.adrianachristianson.com.au

Cheers
Adriana

Relaaaaax..........

2011-09-04T12:29:00.001+10:00

My work here is done....
Yesterday's opening was lots of fun and plenty of chinwagging exercise. Thanks to all who made the journey out to Daylesford, for us 'Melbournites' up to 2 hours each way, mammoth effort-and the very supportive Daylesford community ! Also some Facebookers who I have FINALLY met..how great is that?
Big thanks to Joanna Ruchel- owner operator of MADE and The Raglan for taking the chance on an all ceramics show .
There were good sales, with buyers really interested in the process of my work not just the outcome, which
is really encouraging.
Now i dont have any papparazzi photos for you, but heres some images of inside the gallery...
Did I mention that I had some paintings as well?

Really pleased with the display...

This is one very well trained pussy cat..... young Ned tippy toes around the work to find the sun at the end of the day,is that a red sticker on his collar?Yep, he's sold ........magic

Big Cheers..hip hip....

Adriana

Its TODAY !!

2011-09-03T10:09:00.002+10:00

Yep, heading for a drive out into rural Victoria in the beautiful sunshine, to sip champagne meet people and have a good chinwag...see you there?

http://theraglan.com.au/

Cheers ..
Adriana

Getting nocturnal now....

2011-08-31T00:51:00.002+10:00

Hmmm, sleep evades me now..too many things in my head all going round and round.
Im forgetting stuff,getting tired. My clever sister says that 'Things fall out of your head to make room for others'.....she might be right. Wish i could catch all that stuff and look at it when i had the time .
Anyway, im rambling now(sure sign im losing it !)...
I have just uploaded my profile to a fab website promoting Australian Artists ..
check it out..
http://www.artwhatson.com.au/adrianachristianson
Cheers
Adriana ....zzzzzz

Getting closer..

2011-08-27T22:57:00.001+10:00

Exhibition opens next week...here's a sneaky peek inside one of the big beautiful bowls,that gold lustre sure is special.
Cheers Adriana

Best...job...ever

2011-08-24T11:34:00.001+10:00

So,sitting in the sun decorating work-good salve from the smacks in the head the last couple of weeks have dealt...yep..'ducking and weaving'..Could make a good business name. Cheers adriana

All good...

2011-08-19T17:35:00.001+10:00

Okay-so I was pretty cranky yesterday...so today brought more kiln unloading,glazing ,loading and now gloss firing . And best of all...a couple of hours throwing to get the monkey off my back. And melbourne put on a specky sunny day,my chooks are laying again....and so ,really,all's good. Cheers(hooray) adriana .

Week of disaster

2011-08-17T23:13:00.001+10:00

Sooo, im cruising along doing my usual pre deadline/exhibition 'off my head stressed' mode ...and then,...just when im thinking 'yeah,its coming all together'....bang....firing goes wrong-clay bloats..my bowls that literally take 3-4 hours to decorate each...ruined.
So,you hang your head...pause...and make more. Then today...nice little bowls all sitting on boards innocently waiting to go into the bisque...big floodlight I had set up next to kilns decides to fall...onto the bowls....of course.
Only one smashed,but I swear others will have internal injuries...
No cheers,no..
Adriana

New Works .....Exhibition

2011-08-10T17:02:00.005+10:00

Exhibition Opening
September 3
3-5pm
'MADE' Gallery
The Raglan,Wills Square
1 Camp Street,
Daylesford 3460

until September 25
Open Fri-Sun ,11-5pm
www.theraglan.com.au
made@theraglan.com.au

Well....
exhibition openings are always great fun..but this one is in beautiful Daylesford !!

Lots of interesting things to do and see on the same day
Makers Market
http://www.daylesfordmakersmarket.com.au/
Daylesford Farmers Market
http://mymarketday.com.au/daylesford-farmers-market.htm
lots more interesting Daylesford info ......
http://bestofdaylesford.com/

I look forward to meeting YOU there, come and say HI !!!
Cheers Adriana

POTTERY EXPO @FEDERATION SQUARE,MELBOURNE,SUNDAY DECEMBER 4

2011-08-09T09:34:00.002+10:00

My stall @ Federation Square ,in the Atrium 2010

Hey !!
Just received this info from the ever lovely Jane Annois regarding the Pottery Expo @Fed Square,
if its something you have been meaning to do ,and just never get around to...can I encourage you to
put your hand up and be a part of it.
Interstate people...come to Melbourne and make a weekend of it....

I promise its not scary,far from it..lots of friendly people and a wonderful experience to be a part of a 'like minded' community,good opportunity to make contacts and meet people ....and of course promote your work and make some good sales !!!

The Pottery Expo at Federation Square

Sunday 4 December 2011 10am – 5.30pm

www.potteryexpo.com 8/8/2011

Hi,I am hoping you will take part in the Pottery Expo this year at Federation Square in the Atrium.

We need you to help make thisannual Expo a successful event. After moving the event to the first Sunday inDecember, we saw greater visitor numbers last year. We are attracting those wholooking for Christmas presents, visitors to the Design Fair in the Fed Sq car parkdown stairs, held on the same day and general art lovers.

Showcase your work in apublic setting in Melbourne’s city centre and arts precinct.

We are undercover, out of theelements and next to great coffee shops, restaurants and wine bars.

To apply:

· Send 2 images, yourname, address, phone number, email and website by email by 11 October 2011

· You will benotified by 22 October

· If successful,your acceptance by payment of entry fee $170 is required by 29 October

Fee $170

Space 2.5 m x 2m [BYO stand]– more space can be negotiated depending on numbers

Ilook forward to hearing from you,

JaneAnnois

jane@potteryexpo.com www.potteryexpo.com 03 98442337 / 0422942216

See YOU there !!!

Cheers

Adriana

Another reason to love my aga stove !

2011-08-06T15:36:00.002+10:00

Melbourne has returned to winter after an early spring burst...dammit.
I was loving being in the studio with ware boards drying in the sun! Now i've scurried back to the kitchen to decorate and best drying spot? You guessed it ... That trusty AGA stove.
Hmmm I could just about turn the gas up and do a bisque in it while the roast potatos are cooking !!
Ah! Now I have cabin fever again. Come back spring...we love you !
Cheers ....
Adriana

In the groove

2011-07-30T00:01:00.001+10:00

Im loving being at the warrandyte studio. To dedicate time to my claywork with no distractions has just been such a big shift in my thinking and production. Like a beautiful blank piece of white paper ...like a fresh pack of clay...and a clean studio. I have begun a few paintings for the exhibition as well...they also are flowing...yep..im in the groove. Are you? cheers adriana

Magical Treasures...

2011-07-25T10:40:00.004+10:00

'Yum'...is what i said after opening my little lustre firing...very happy with these little treasures out of the kiln this morning...working in earnest now towards that solo exhibition at 'MADE' in Daylesford September
http://theraglan.com.au/

My time at Anne Maree Gentile's studio in Warrandyte
http://www.amusingclay.com.au/index.html
has been so great and timely, I love heading off with my tub of things to do ,make,decorate....

Inside the gallery space is filled with Anne Maree's vast array of amazing ceramics..

..and when the sun is shining through this North facing window , the Waifs on the CD player..I am one happy
girl...drop in to say hello...
Thursdays & Fridays 9.30am-3pm
Saturdays 9.30-12pm
Behind the Roundabaout Cafe in Warrandyte ...park under the bridge.
Or give me a call if you get lost !!
0488768137

Cheers
Adriana

Aust ceramics mag-just in time for lunchtime read.

2011-07-20T13:35:00.001+10:00

Issue 50/2 hit my mailbox today.just what I needed after tackling the dreaded clay recycling job.nice little image of one of my plates on page 46 titled-'flat out' . and by the way ..what was I thinking ever touching porcelain clay...totally love it . ....but more than one clay in the studio.,what a nightmare! Thank goodness I can relax for a bit and have a pot of tea and a read. Cheers adriana

Lucky Duck

2011-07-14T17:33:00.004+10:00

Yes, me .
Im the lucky duck..my friend Anne Maree Gentile ,has gone flitting off to the UK and Italia,
and has asked me,and another artist ,Djan- a painter, to look after her studio in Warrandyte.
(Djan will be there Sunday-Wednesdays,I will post more info and images later on )
Anne Maree does wonderful wonderful whimsical 'quirky' ceramic work ,as i have posted before..heres another reminder of her work

http://www.amusingclay.com.au/index.html

Follow the link to see Anne Maree's website ,and follow the directions to find her studio !!
Situated on the roundabout, at the bridge in Warrandyte, rear 230 Yarra St,behind the Roundabout Cafe.
I am planning to be there as of THIS Saturday 16th of July until Saturday 27th August.
BUT only on THURSDAYS 9.30-3pm, FRIDAYS 9.30-3pm and SATURDAYS 9-12pm.

Im planning to use this time away from my own studio to concentrate on producing work for my exhibition in September.....

As well as Anne Maree's work , I will have a small amount available to purchase on display.
Hope to have some visitors! Feel free to email me or call 0488768137 to check on times if you are coming from a good distance away,as I may be three paces down the hill a bit at the Roundabout Cafe
http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/71/1480610/restaurant/Victoria/Warrandyte-Roundabout-Cafe-Warrandyte purchasing a snack , or beetling along in my little car on my way !!

Ciao for now
Adriana

Throwing with frozen fingers !

2011-07-08T17:49:00.005+10:00

Good day in the studio- albeit cold.
Mid winter here in Melbourne,so hotwater in the throwing water is a must . Im having a 'play' with groupings of 'Cool Ice' porcelain cylinders.(LBCI)
This clay has been a bit of a favourite this year,but mainly for my little 'dishes'...(.I usually throw with 'SWE',
love the creamy white of the body)after throwing a few 'tests' ,Im thinking this may be the clay for my exhibition in September ..will have to decide soon!!
Follow the link to Clayworks website info for mid-fire clays
http://www.clayworksaustralia.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=265:mid-fire-bodies&catid=70:clays&Itemid=126

Im looking forward to decorating them as a 'group' or a' landscape' ...I can 'see ' it in my head, interesting how it will translate...
Cheers
Adriana

SMALLpieces...

2011-07-04T19:30:00.002+10:00

Have you been to SMALLpieces?
Its a great gallery and retail space within Northcote Pottery...
http://www.northcotepottery.com.au/
http://www.facebook.com/northcotepotterysupplies
Things have changed a bit recently, with the departure of Pan Gallery(sad face) and the area being utilised
as more classroom space. More opportunities for eager clayworkers to learn , for workshops ,all sorts of Northcot-ey Pottery-y stuff !
SMALLpieces is moving its bits around(so to speak) , and I'm thinking might even have the NEW window in the front....with the moving entertainment of excited staff peering out ??

ANYWAY,enough silliness (because i am pretty good at that,as some of you already know).
SMALLpieces have been kindly stocking my work for a while now, and I have recently dropped in some
beakers to join my little dishes and brooches already there...

so skip down and have a look
http://smallpiecesnps.blogspot.com/
Arrevederci

Adriana

Tinkering with a new design..

2011-07-02T18:39:00.001+10:00

Have had a bit of a play today ,beginning work for my solo exhibition in September at MADE in Daylesford
http://theraglan.com.au/

Details later on....

Adriana

Getting there

2011-07-02T11:53:00.001+10:00

Problems with kilns are boring and frustrating ,but I think we've got it licked ! Last visit by my tech (who im amazed still keeps answering my calls) yesterday and all looks good. Thank goodness !
Ciao adriana

A kiln for Ikuntji by Sarah O'Sullivan on Pozible

2011-06-28T17:28:00.001+10:00

A kiln for Ikuntji by Sarah O'Sullivan on Pozible

Get on board people..we can do so much with just a little from everyone !!
Cheers
Adriana

Artists with brand spanking new websites!!

2011-06-25T13:56:00.001+10:00

Two of my Artist friends have recently launched their NEW websites...

Kathy Fahey http://kathyfahey.com.au/

and Sally Darlison ..http://www.sallydarlison.com/

Beautifully put together websites, both easy to navigate and delicious to look at ...
better get back to the kiln....
Ciao
Adriana

Pussycat BLACk.....

2011-06-22T21:24:00.000+10:00

Cute little bloggette promoting my work from the delectable Pussycat BLACK !!!

http://www.pussycatblackbrunswick.blogspot.com/

Have a little lookey see !!

meow...
Adriana

Happy days

2011-06-21T16:01:00.001+10:00

YES !
Finally, my long suffering gas kiln is back baby ! After about 9 years of languishing in the shadows,
many moves and tinkerings...it is back in action!!
I will post a picture one day, not too glamourous i have to say, but i love it so !!
So now the count is..um...three kilns...two little electric and the gas one .
Yesterday was its first test run of a gloss firing 1200c..here are some of the beakers that came out ..
oh and the painting is mine as well !!!

NEW STOCKIST !!!!!
More excitement..( I will need a Bex and a lie down soon)..I have a beautiful NEW stockist !!
The very lovely Bettina at Pussycat Black is now stocking my little 'Cool Ice ' dishes at the 105 Therry St store!
105 Therry St is in Melbourne ,at the Victoria Market ....so when your sitting outside having your morning short
black coffee at the market , its across the road just up the hill.
Open: 10-5, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Have a look at their blog and website ...

http://pussycatblackbrunswick.blogspot.com/
http://www.pussycatblack.com/

SUCH a good day, *jumps in the air and kicks heels together*.....(well in my mind !!!)
Ciao bambini
Adriana

Love a swap !

2011-06-15T14:59:00.003+10:00

Loving my 'rat' canister by Truly Southurst.
Nothing like a FAB swap...Im keeping tea in mine rather than mouses...Truly is always at the Monthly Makers Market at Daylesford

http://www.daylesfordmakersmarket.com.au/

next one is July 3rd ,

or Bendigo Town Hall THIS Saturday
ttp://www.thesquarebendigo.typepad.com/

or check out her Facebook page

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Made-by-Truly/128869757172264

Go on, support our local Artists

. Cheers adriana

Saturday night decorating...

2011-06-11T20:53:00.000+10:00

Okay...
its Melbourne, its cold AND i had a throwing spree, forgetting that actually at SOME stage all these

pots needed to be turned and then decorated. You know how it is !!

I do wrap them all in little flannel coats , of sorts, to keep them from drying out,and have them on a shelf
with a plastic front on it..to slow down the drying process-after they have been turned and had any banding and initial sgraffitto...

Anyway, Im rambling .........so tonight,in my warm cosy kitchen, I am sat at the table with just a few pots to complete at a time .( 2 vases wrapped in flannel 'coats' on table!!) Its not a quick process,all that sgraffitto and brushwork...

But somehow, I love doing it.Its soothing,..mesmerising....

think i might have gone a bit overboard this time ....so much detail on the big bowl inside and out..(apologies for the photo, its a bit blurred)

Haven't even included the 2 sets of beakers already done, they have been loaded into the kiln..waiting for their brothers & sisters.....then there are all the vases in the studio..shivering in their little coats..
Hope YOU are keeping warm, wherever you are reading this from !

Adriana

Its arrived !

2011-06-10T16:39:00.002+10:00

Yay ! The little jug I ordered from Whitney Smith http://www.whitneysmithpottery.com/ has arrived !
So damn excited.beautifully made/thrown and such a delicious glaze .
I had to open it in the car right after I collected it from the post office...hence the football + messy photo ! So happy it makes me smile.
Adriana

Global gathering

2011-06-08T17:38:00.003+10:00

Had the best fun today running art workshops with Kathy Fahey for Box Hill Community Art Centre as part of the 'Global Gathering' 2011.
This annual event involves the eastern schools refugee action network , 5 local primary schools including blackburn english language school. The children worked in pairs to produce a collage . This one was one of my favourites ,it says 'This Rainbow means Freedom'.
They will be exhibited at Box Hill Community Art Centre http://www.bhcac.com.au/ as part of Refugee Week. Stay tuned for details !
Adriana

Decorating

2011-06-06T12:04:00.001+10:00

Sure is cold in here !probably doesnt help that I just hosed down the floor ! I have heaps of beakers to decorate. Vases banded + sgrafitto-ed ,wrapped in little flannel 'coats' until I can get to them to finish brushwork...it has been so good to get back into routine again ! Brrr
Adriana

New Stockist in Daylesford !!!

2011-06-03T18:48:00.000+10:00

Check out my newest stockist 'Made' gallery in Daylesford....
The very supportive and wonderful Jo Ruchel, owns and manages this light filled intimate space.
She is also an Artist extrodinaire..beautiful painter,basket weaver !!...and tells me a potter as well...ah, it all makes sense .

www.theraglan.com.au

AND..the Daylesford Makers Market is on TOMORROW...June 4th

http://www.daylesfordmakersmarket.com.au/

The hourly earnings project...

2011-06-02T10:09:00.000+10:00

Everyday work: The total amount of time spent on this work is less than on the "fancy work," but the calculated hourly wage is also lower.

“Thirty dollars for a mug! How long did it take for you to make that?” Anyone who has ever sold pottery at an art festival has probably heard a similar question in response to the prices of their work. And many have appropriately responded, “Oh, about twenty years” or whatever the number of years it has been that they have been developing their work and their voice in clay.
Above is an extract from an interesting article on the 'Ceramics Daily ' website

.http://ceramicartsdaily.org/ceramic-art-and-artists/open-studios/the-hourly-earnings-project/Make yourself a pot of tea ,brew some coffee..have a read on the link above..let me know what you think!

Ciao , Adriana

Websites for Artists...

2011-06-01T10:14:00.001+10:00

So Im talking about my OFFICIAL website,( not my - 'im in my comfy fluffy slippers eating toast BLOG')

I love my website..I do .

Last year I was approached by the amazing Australian Art Collector Magazine
http://www.artcollector.net.au/ to put in a full page advert for my work.
I was extremely excited..as you can imagine..then i realised that it would actually cost me my infrequently
earned clay money..'oh'....but STILL excited.

I had just had my first solo exhibition and it had been quite successful, I was determined to put the funds back into my work, so I said 'yes'....and then the ball REALLY started rolling!

I figured that ,as brilliant as my photographic skills are (sarcasm here...and HERE),it was time to employ the services of a PROFFESSIONAL.....photographer that is.
The first person I thought of was Christopher Sanders .Quite serendipidly( is that even a word?) Chris was my first throwing instructor a thousand years ago at Prahran, a perfectionist of a potter, a craftsman and
now a professional photographer as well.
Chris produced some beautiful images, which I suggested I actually should sell INSTEAD of my work, as i thought they looked amazing.....
http://christophersanders.zenfolio.com/

Being a member of Craft Victoria, there was a good discount as well...
http://www.craftvic.org.au/

SO,it was time then to build a website. One of those things that i had been putting off for years ,and years...but now it had to happen, if i was investing my hard earned money in this ,it all needed to be totally professional.
Chris recommended Artsphere,as they specialise in websites for artists,and they are Melbourne based,which doesn't preclude them from doing work for interstate of course.
Melanie was wonderful......really. Easy to contact and quite the normal person,thankfully!(And they also offer a discount to Craft Victoria members)
http://artsphere.com.au/
And so, there it all was..

The graphics put together by my very talented Graphic Designer friend Brascha Nicholas !

And if you haven't already had a look , here's my website
www.adrianachristianson.com.au

Go on, you know its time to invest in yourself ...

Ciao
Adriana

Poached quince

2011-05-31T16:32:00.001+10:00

Ok. Totally off topic.poached quinces slowley over 24hours in my trusty aga stove.oh...my...gosh.....

Deborah Halpern

2011-05-30T09:57:00.003+10:00

Jeannette Davison's blog 'isiiad' has a great post about Deborah Halpern today.

rememeber this the beautiful 'Angel' ?

Jeannette visits Deborah in her Warrandyte studio , and shares plenty of gorgeous pics...and check out the rest of her blog...great Art & Design blog
http://www.isiiad.com.au/

Im back in the studio this morning... just waiting for that heater to crank up and warm up this Melbourne morning..geepers a little potbelly stove would be great in there ,

Cheers
Adriana :)

Great new website by Journal Of Australian Ceramics....

2011-05-27T16:34:00.000+10:00

Check out the great new website put together by the Journal of Australian Ceramics ,
to celebrate 50 years of publication.
35 ceramicists have been invited to participate in an online conversation about their work,
and what part 'The Journal' has had in that......

work by Avi Amesbury

http://www.jacpromotion2011.com/

Enjoy ....... and 'pass it on ' !
Ciao, Adriana .

Leading us where? article by Susie McMeekin....heartfelt thoughts

2011-05-24T12:24:00.000+10:00

Leading Us Where? by Susie McMeekin JAC, Issue 50/1, The Journal of Australian Ceramics.

"I am a potter. I do not consider myself a ceramicist. I have been working with,

and developing, my skills for the past 30+ years. It has been a source of enjoyment

and frustration for me. It has been a lonely journey which at first I enjoyed,

but as I grow older I find that it has isolated me and taken me out of the mainstream.

It is becoming clear to me that one must remain in the forefront of people's

minds if one is to earn a living AND get any kind of feedback that is required

to move onwards.
Since I began to pot with my father, Ivan McMeekin, in 1978 the world and the

pottery world has moved on apace. With the ease of internet communication and

the access to so much knowledge on the World Wide Web, it seems that the technical

base which I held in great respect has, to a certain extent, been diminished,

taking away the devotion and commitment that the producers of great glazes

of quality and beauty had to have. The re emergence of China as an international

ceramics manufacturer that produces high quality, cheap, if not particularly

aesthetically beautiful, china, again deals another blow to those of us who

have spent our working lifetime at the wheel, making domestic ware for discerning

clients to purchase and use. The craft/hippie movement of the 60s and 70s lies

in tatters and debate still rages as to why the general public no longer seem

to care or take much interest in quality, handmade goods. Is it the demise of

the education institutes, particularly in ceramics, or is it that we have

failed to keep up with changing trends and fads that come and go faster than

our ability to perform the necessary research and development to produce the

latest trends? I must, at this stage, put up my hand and say that I am not

interested in doing any such thing. We live in a world where it seems that

most things are throw-away quality; even power tools that I used to save

for to make my work a little easier, are now in cheap abundance.

But it does seem that this place our community is in now, so far as commodities go,

is eating into our artistic soul leaving us reeling and confused about our

expression and our place in society. Do I now see at the the work at art school

shows leaning towards the quirky rather than the quality? Is it the curriculum

and the change of the necessary ?outcome? that has moved the schools in this direction?

Is it that the teachers at these schools are trying to break new ground and,

if so, why and where has the simple skill base gone? Do we now accept that we,

as craftsman, will only be treated as ?artists? in the rarefied world of contemporary art?

Is that actually what the new generation of potters want?

I pose this question with absolute sincerity and hope that we can open up some

form of communication on this subject because it causes me a great deal of consternation.

I want some answers, not only from the teaching profession, but from the students

(undergraduates and graduates), from buyers and camp followers.
I hope that people will take the time to write some thoughts on this issue."

mail@australianceramics.com

What a marvellous letter.

If you feel so moved please email The Journal of Australian Ceramics with your response,or comment here on

this blog.

I was fortunate to have had my 'training' in ceramics in the 1980's ,fortunate that it was not a

'part' or 'unit' of another course , but a wonderful full bodied course majoring in all aspects of studio pottery.

Throwing, handbuilding, clay & glaze studies, studio practice, and kiln studies.

These 5 subjects were my core subjects studied over 3 years, interspersed with electives(sculpture,painting etc).

Afterwards i went to work for a studio production potter,which built on these skills ,and where hard work

and quality production was appreciated.

I too, have been beavering away for 30 odd years ,raising a family -teaching  and 'potting'.

I find that the labelling of "Ceramic Artist" or "Studio Potter" can be divisive ,and care not to waste time

arguing the fact. I consider myself both and believe that ones work speaks for itself..UNTITLED  i say !

I do ,however, bemoan the skills lost by the lack of apprentiships availible to potters starting out ,learning side by side.

And also saddened by the ever diminishing availibilty of courses and the closing of Ceramic courses,just lately the Box HIll Tafe Ceramics course.

So those wanting to learn  the skills will have to pay for the privilge, this is what our craft(dont start me on craft /art!)

has come to,like many many others .

There was some work being done last year, towards a National Curriculum for Ceramics & other Art courses,it would be interesting to hear from

anyone as to how this was being developed.There was some uproar as 'throwing' was at one stage being one of the subjects considering being dropped.Im fairly

certain this didn't eventuate.

The students that i have taught over the last 25 or so years, in adult education,are hungry for information

hungry for learning the basics of throwing,handbuilding,glazing and most of all firing.

But only a few are able to go on and do any kind of specialist course.

I do believe that the 'worldwideweb' is a wonderful source accessable to many,and builds community and links people.

It doesn't replace face to face , but is still a great teaching tool, with students telling me of a new throwing

technique they learnt off the web!

As to where the next generation of potters want or where they are going?

I believe,the same as always..learn the skills any way you can ,make the work, love what you do.

So i continue to make my pots and teach others, build their enthusiasm,and look to

more established potters to do the same.

So is it time for more mentoring ? I say it is ....looks like we're back to tradition.

Cheers Adriana

Glad i was there !

2011-05-19T19:17:00.000+10:00

Beautiful exhibition...

www.wishyouwerehere2011.com

The opening last night was a well attended affair, and with such diverse work exhibited, lots to look at !

I did make myself a few quick purchases..fell in love with Kathy Faheys work, i have been watching her produce it over the last few months, so it was really exciting to see it all come to fruition.... have a look the 'postcards' of Georgetown ,Penang..below ...the little piece with the red dot is MINE! ...

Anne Maree Gentile's work always puts a smile on my face..these are her Venetian 'beads'...would make a great pair of earrings dont you think ??(except they are HUGE!)

Totally gorgeous 'coral' structures by Sharyn Masson below...have to be seen and touched...

The chance to view this work and the other pieces in this unique exhibition , finishes
THIS SATURDAY 21st MAY...
there is a very civilized Afternoon Tea, if you don't mind...3-5pm..

SO check out the link for all the gory details...its at Box Hill Community Art Centre

www.wishyouwerehere2011.com
http://www.bhcac.com.au/Cheerio ..Adriana

Wish u were here

2011-05-17T19:04:00.001+10:00

A sneak peek of some of the very contemporary work at the www.wishyouwerehere2011.com exhibition..this is some of Kathy Fahey's magical work . See you at Box Hill Community Art Centre- Wednesday 18th May .6.30-8.30pm

Ciao ,Adriana

Wish you were here

2011-05-09T10:36:00.000+10:00

Upcoming exhibition by a great bunch of claymakers...'Wish You Were Here 2011'

Ceramic works inspired by travel...
Heres a taste of some of the work on offer by some of my very best friends....

Frida Birkic

Anne Maree Gentile

Kathy Fahey

......................................... 18th May at Box Hill Community Art Centre,...................................Wednesday opening at 6.30pm...see link for more details...
www.wishyouwerehere2011.com

Closing 'Crosshatched' exhibition..goodbye Pan Gallery,hello & welcome home my mudkas!

2011-04-30T19:59:00.001+10:00

(above)...my beautiful mudka made by Manohar Lal and the little baby ones made by Dharmveer

(above)..The mudka our family purchased, decorated by Judi Singleton

Last night quite a few of us managed to avoid the 'tiara event ' to attend the closing of the 'Crosshatched' exhibition at what was Pan Gallery's final show.
My mudka was purchased and will be well loved in its new home...i will miss its happy 'roundness'
Lots of fierce bidding occured, and im hoping enough funds were raised to build a kiln in India(near Delhi) ,in Kumhaar Gram. A potters village that has been asked to decrease its emissions or close.
Congratulations must go to Sandra Bowkett and Anne Ferguson for their dedication to this project. It has certainly been enriching for all involved.
Ciao
Adriana...

Pan Gallery-LAST EXHIBITION !!

2011-04-20T20:13:00.000+10:00

Vipoo Srivilasa's Mudka @ Pan Gallery...one of many beautiful ,and well loved Mudka !!

Pan Gallery is as you ALL know, hosting the ' Crosshatched Exhibition', what you might not know is that this is the very LAST exhibition at the Gallery-as the space will be utilised for more workshop space for Northcote Pottery..which is great for Northcote- more people wanting to learn what the hell they can do with clay !! Also hosting more fabulous potters/ceramic artists to share their techniques..what we all love to see.

But pretty sad for us, to lose another ceramic art gallery, and who have grown to admire Pan Gallery for their high standard of exhibitions and vision .
Sophie Milne being the public face of Pan Gallery(Im sure lots of behind the scenes people in black T-Shirts)
has set the bar nice and high, thank you Ms Milne ...take a bow .

So, even MORE reason to come along to the closing EVENT ceremony ...come and wave goodbye , and say THANKS !!!
http://pangallery.blogspot.com/?spref=fb

BUT WAIT, theres ALWAYS more !!!
SMALLpieces gallery which exists within Northcote Pottery will be having a bit of a wriggle around,and creating a NEW IMPROVED space within its terrain....so go and visit Emidio and have a chat,and have a look at their blog for more info !!
Heres the 'goss' on the changes ...

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

NEWS

Changes are afoot. With the increased interest in classes and workshops we are reorganizing the space here at Northcote Pottery Supplies to add another classroom. This means that Pan Gallery and SMALLpieces are combining. The Pan Gallery name will no longer be used and a different model is being adopted. SMALLpieces will now contain within it a Featured Artist Space where a more concentrated display of artists' work can be exhibited. We can now have big pieces! We are excited by the changes and hope it leads to more artists showing their work here. We will keep you posted when the evolution occurs

http://smallpiecesnps.blogspot.com/

See you at the closing event at Pan Gallery...6-8pm Friday April 29th.....
bidding ends at 7pm....champagne hopefully still flowing !!

Cheers
Adriana

isiiad.....Jeanette Davison's art & design blog

2011-04-19T22:21:00.000+10:00

Jeanette and I met at the Warrandyte Expo this year as she was wandering along the river...so to speak!
She has kindly written a great review and included some brilliant images from the newly opened Crosshatched Exhibition at Pan gallery,
follow the link to go to her blog..she is quite the prolific blogger, almost daily i think, puts me to shame !!.
Here is an image from her blog to whet your appetite
Thanks Jeanette..

www.isiiad.com.au

Crosshatched at Pan Gallery......Mudkas!!

2011-04-09T21:57:00.000+10:00

I have posted about this wonderful collaboration before but TODAY, i got to decorate MY Mudka !!

A little reminder of what its all about ..................
CROSSHATCHED AT PAN GALLERY........

A cross-cultural creative collaboration, including an installation of traditional Indian water pots (mudka) and a charity auction of mudka decorated by Melbourne artists, to raise funds to build a more energy efficient kiln in Kumhaar Gram, India.

The silent auction of collaborative mudka begins at 10am on 19th April and concludes at the Crosshatched closing event on 29th April at 7pm.

Manohar Lal and Dharmveer's traditional Indian mudka are individually decorated for auction by artists..

Arrived at Northcote Pottery to be confronted with lots of amazingly beautiful Mudkas to choose from!!
Truly Southurst and I ran our hands over just about all of them, trying to find 'our' baby Mudka.....

After several cups of tea and coffee..we both took deep breaths and began!!!
It was really really daunting ,they were so amazing and BIG,and what if we made a mistake ??Or worse, dropped it off its precarious upturned bucket stand...

Base coat applied , then for me it was onto lots of brushwork and sgrafitto..and sgrafitto and more sgrafitto...

and then after 4 hours , it was finished.......

The lovely Truly was still working on hers after i left...so much detail....just beautiful...

So now i look forward to seeing everyone elses Mudkas, and how they have chosen to decorate them...
Remember, the silent auction begins at 10am on 19th April and concludes at the Crosshatched closing event on 29th of April at 7pm....

Ciao
Adriana

All of these photographs were taken by Truly Southurst (well except for the one of HER taken by me of course)..thanks Truly !!

Erk...there goes a perfectly good back...dammit..mumble mumble

2011-04-04T17:47:00.000+10:00

Sigh,
Too boring really..but true, not to panic folks..was just minding my own business & breathing...bingo bango..
cannot bend,cannot pick up dropped mail off the floor..cannot put the poor dogs bowl on the floor(this one was funny though)...
So thinking i really must implement all that great Ergonomic stuff in the Australian Ceramics Association article I read YESTERDAY by Joanna DeMaine
http://australianceramics.com/home/index.php/Journal-of-Australian-Ceramics/staging/Ergonomics-and-Ceramics/menu-id-229.html

so TAKE HEED...think about how you work, the height of your table,the floor you stand on ,the LIFTING you do..we all know what we are meant to do.....

BUT , on the exciting front...
ta daaaaaaaaaa......

Hyperventilating....yay ! One of Christopher Sanders' beautiful imageswww.christophersanders.zenfolio.com in the latest issue of The Journal of Australian Ceramics
www.australianceramics.com
So..as they say, 'the harder I work the luckier i get'......................you have to think about it

Ciao (ouch!)
Adriana

MUDKAS !!

2011-03-15T23:06:00.000+11:00

Am very excited to have been invited to participate in the 'Crosshatched' at Pan Gallery Exhibition...
http://www.northcotepottery.com.au/Text/1215330176609-8997/pC/1060231134180-6731/

Over 20 Artists have been invited to decorate a 'Mudka', a traditional water pot, which will be auctioned to help raise funds to build a more energy efficient kiln in Kamhaar Gram,India.
Two potters from India, Manori Lal and Dharmveer will be making our Mudkas at Northcote Pottery....
Many thanks to Sandra Bowkett ,have a look at her website and absorb her passion for India(following image from Sandra's website)
http://sandrabowkett.com/work.htm

cant wait....
Ciao , Adriana !

Warrandyte Expo 2011 ,Pimms & Lemonade w Anne Maree Gentile,Sunday Arts Market @The Abbostsford Convent

2011-03-04T10:58:00.000+11:00

Expo ...

Expo is always a great event, and an important social event for all potters beavering away in their studio's during the year.In typical Melbourne weather we had heat & rain, nevertheless good crowds of well informed customers and plenty of wonderful supportive friends, to whom i am always so excited to see.
And i seem to manage to make a few new friends as well. !! Potters faces i know ,and have done the past 4 Expos with, but have been just too frantically busy to have a long chat with!
http://www.potteryexpo.com/

I had a visit from Jeanette Davidson, who has a really beautiful Art & Design blog called 'isaad'.
She has taken a few snaps at the Expo and put them up with some other potters work and written a blog entry to go with it.so heres the link..have a peep http://www.isiiad.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=73:warrandyte-pottery-expo

Anne Maree Gentile

If your not familiar with Anne Maree's work yet, then its high time you had a look !!

http://www.amusingclay.com.au/index.html

Its opening TONIGHT at Open Drawer...6pm -8pm...come & have a Pimms & Lemonade
: 1158 Toorak Road, Camberwell (Hartwell Village) 3124 (Mel. Ref 60 C6)

Hours:
Mon,Wed & Fri 10am-5.30pm,
Thur 10am-7pm,
Sat & Sun 10am-4pm (Closed Tuesdays)

http://opendrawer.com.au/

Ciao ..Adriana !!

POTTERY EXPO TIME !!!!! THIS WEEKEND 26TH & 27TH FEB

2011-02-25T22:38:00.000+11:00

Okay dudes & dudettes,
time to get yourselves down to Warrandyte for the annual POTTERY EXPO !!!
This is only my second time,but i do love it..love the yakking to other potters & customers ,checking out everyone's work,relaaaaxing by the river, trying (failing ) to resist buying a billion 'must haves'...really!

Check out the link for more info www.potteryexpo.com
Come down and say hello !!
See you there
Adriana

swamp cartography movie

2011-02-24T10:05:00.000+11:00

Have a look at this Gobsmackingly beautiful movie ...

Chinese Brushwork..mmm......yum.....ON CLAY !!

2011-02-12T21:33:00.000+11:00

I have had the very best fun this weekend and last , doing a wonderful Chinese Brushwork course..run by Echo Wu www.chinesepaintingstudio.com.au, at Box Hill Community Art Centre, www.bhcac.com.au
So after 4 hours of meticulous blossom painting,and branches.......I came galloping home,straight into the studio to have a play!!
I had thrown a heap of beakers to decorate in preparation, so busily turned them ...then was frozen with fear
when it came to decorating them !!
A few practice goes on a piece of clay, and i just launched into it....now i have to say ,that this decoration is my interpretation of Chinese Brushwork on clay, as the thick underglazes dont really co-operate as well as watercolours.....so then it became more and more abstract, and less traditional...

But im pretty happy with the results,not sure which i prefer , the black or the white beakers?

So to see the finished result , you will have to come to the Pottery Expo to have a proper look !!
www.potteryexpo.com

AND, the lovely Echo Wu herself is coming on Sunday to demonstrate as well !!!!

See you there !!
Ciao
Adriana

2,002 hits on Blog !!

2011-02-09T20:55:00.000+11:00

How funny...
i had a look at my 'stats' recently on my Blog, and have found that i have gone over the 2000 views on my blog !
I find it interesting that ,that many people are interested in what Im doing here !!
Have a look at the list of countries recorded as having a browse...
Australia !
USA
Canada
Lithuania
Italy
Georgia
Germany
South Korea
Netherlands
India
Croatia
China
Belgium
Finland
United Kingdom
And yet, i think from memory there are only 2 or 3 comments !!
WELL..now is the time people !!
leave a comment , or drop me an email !

mail@adrianachristianson.com.au

Thanks for all your interest
Cheers
Adriana

The Pear House,Holgate ,NSW...beautiful new stockist!!

2011-01-29T11:30:00.000+11:00

The lovely Lauren at The Pear House , has her website up and running..and it is just BEAUTIFUL !!!
http://www.thepearhouse.com.au

Lauren contacted me late last year , and now has a little selection of my work ........

"The Pear House is committed to supporting emerging artists, as well as believing in the global value of craft and community. We actively build relationships with our artists and suppliers to make sure our customers are offered a shopping experience of pleasure and inspiration, as an alternative to mass produced and highly manufactured goods.
We plan to continue many life adventures and search out interesting and unique artists and designers, whilst also providing gifts and home wares that are representative of our product philosophy."

So ,if you are tootling up the Pacific Hwy..just past Gosford...drop in and say hello !

Cheers
Adriana

Work and Play,the Potters Life-Ceramic Arts Daily

2011-01-24T22:54:00.000+11:00

Have a read of these great articles from the Ceramic Art Daily site..potters from the U.S ...all talking about their life and how they go about it ....make a pot of tea ,sit down & have a read
http://ceramicartsdaily.org/ceramic-art-and-artists/functional-pottery/work-and-play-the-potters-life/

Mark Shapiro dries a thrown form with a weed burner
before shaping it further,
at Stonepool Pottery, Worthington, Massachus

Summer Mojo,black clay ....Warrandyte Expo Potters ..

2011-01-19T11:53:00.000+11:00

Mojo ?
Yes, I think i lost it..
After months of production work,orders,Christmas chaos..i felt a bit like Id lost my mojo,or at the very least
forgotten how to play with clay.
So yesterday i just did my fav thing...just threw bowls,didnt even weigh the clay(rebel !!),all sorts of shapes and sizes.This is what i have always loved to do,and makes me happy....simple really.
So my Warrandyte Expo will be quite an assortment...and no,it doesnt come in blue!
I have also had the time to play with the black clay i bought in December,just a few pinch pots ,a bit of white slip...teeney bit of sgrafitto.
Its quite plastic,and forgiving..sticky as hell ! Hilarious to use after the pristine Cool Ice..
Im madly scrubbing that manganese out of my fingernails ,and fastidious about cleaning it off every
surface..will be interesting to see how it fires, 1220c top temp.

Pottery Expo at Warrandyte

So the Expo is just around the corner..Warrandyte by the river,Feb 26 &27..
Around 40 potters from around Victoria
just a few to show you from some who will be in attendance....as well as me of course !!
www.adrianachristianson.com.au

Zak Chalmers.....
www.valleyplainspottery.com.au

Jane Annois....
http://www.janeannois.com

Eve Close....

Julia Franz
http://www.formbar.com.au

Chris &Marylou Pittard
http://pittards.com.au

But have a look a the website for yourself...
www.potteryexpo.com

Ciao ,Adriana

New Year....brand new and sparkly 2011 !!

2011-01-11T10:51:00.000+11:00

I finally ventured into my little studio and surveyed the post Christmas debris !!
Boxes, bubble wrap,remnants of sawn polystyrene boxes(made to measure postal delivery!)..and a funny
smell... So i did what lots of potters are doing at this time of year....used up a can of surface spray insect crawly killer stuff...then ran & closed the door behind me!!
Forward a week ....big ..fat...DEAD hairy ( shivers) spider curled up on top of bags of clay...lots of little dead
mosquitoes (yay)..and one huge crunchy cockcroach on my wheel ...legs akimbo...
so then the onslaught of Mrs Tittlemouse..cleaning cleaning...and finally the hosing of all floors for a beautiful clean & dust free studio !!

So you can see what a small space it is that i inhabit...no room for spiders !!It really is a tiny space , with kilns in the larger garage.Im happier having the kilns away from me , although on a cold day they would be handy for the warmth!
Now for something i found really interesting....

I ventured into my favourite T2 store for tea supplies(French Earl Grey , if you must know),and came across
this beautiful HANDMADE handthrown & turned bowl..nearly fell off my orthodics....bought it of course,
then promptly sent off an email to Mr & Mrs T2 requesting information of the maker of this piece, and complementing them on choosing to sell handmade work, heres what they had to say ........

"Hi Adriana – thanks for the enquiry. The Matcha bowl is indeed hand made and does come from Japan. It forms part of a set used to serve Matcha tea in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony along with a handmade bamboo whisk and spoon. I don’t have the artists name at hand and we do have a large number of artisan products from all over the world. Hope you enjoy it – kind regards JT"

So there you go..how very interesting...I may have mentioned that I had hoped that the piece was made in Australia as well, just to be cheeky.....

So now I have to drag myself away from multiple cups of tea and swanning about ...head into the studio ..and POT !!

Ciao
Adriana

adriana christianson on The Arts Map

2010-12-21T08:48:00.000+11:00

adriana christianson on The Arts Map

Skepsi

2010-12-18T14:17:00.000+11:00

Anna Maas, Director of Skepski on Swanston...has launched a beautiful website
www.skepskionswanston.com.au

Thank goodness !!!
Cheers
Adriana

Exhibitions for 2011 will be at .....

The Malvern Artists' Society
1297-99 High Street
Malvern

Exhibitions Calendar 2011

March 11th to March 27th - 'Arresting'
Exceptional Australian Contemporary Ceramics by selected artists

May 20th to June 5th - 'Art of Wood fire'
Exhibition of Australian Wood fire Ceramics by leading artists, includes book launch, a major publication written by Owen Rye.
August 12th to August 28th - 'Ceramics of Brian Keyte'
Current works by respected ceramist, pushing the boundaries of form and glaze.

September 9th to September 25th - 'Energy'
Exhibition of extraordinary ceramics by talented, promising emerging artists

the bells..... the bells .....

2010-12-14T23:49:00.000+11:00

Well, now my teaching week/year is officially over ,and my reindeer antlers (the ones with the bells) have been put to rest for another year !! I did wear them to all my kids classes AND to one of the staff functions....
Students have almost picked up all of their work,a few extra hurried firings to keep the smallest monkeys happy.
SO now its time to wind down (!) and pick up the pieces of a very neglected garden( i keep walking past my sideways growing tomato plants with shame), house( yes , the washing IS taking over ) , studio( filled w boxes & bubble wrap)...kiln area(oh my goodness..now that really needs a clean)........
But only a little break , because before I know it Pottery Expo @ Warrandyte will be ON !!

Now the lovely Jennie from DRIFT handmade treasures,has sent me a few divine images of her establishment

on North Stradbroke Island.....DRIFT have just begun stocking my work..would love to deliver the work myself !!
DRIFT handmade treasures
27 Mooloomba Road
Nth Stradbroke Island
Queensland 4113
+61 7 3409 8523

Im looking forward to some beach time myself, with the annual camping holiday coming up....

Cheers
Adriana