Laura K. Aiken Mosaics

Next Hopper up…

2012-01-22T10:09:00.001-06:00

Our Next Artist is Up for the Artful Gathering Blog Hop!

Celebrating Artful Gathering 2012 Online Art Retreat,
Open for Registration!

Blog Hop your way for chance to win!

From June to August 2012, ArtfulGathering.com will be presenting TWO exciting semesters of premiere online video workshops offered by fabulous artists who are known nationally and internationally. We are all very excited to share out knowledge, skill, and creativity with you, and we hope that you will join us for this AMAZING annual online event.

Blog Hop with us for a chance to win a prizes from Jerry's Artarama!

Each week the faculty of Artful Gathering will be announcing a featured blog to visit.

You can hop along with us until the final destination blog is reached, and where ONE Grand Prize winner will be chosen at Random for a chance to win a $200.00 e-gift card from Jerry's Artarama!!!

Two Runner Up winners will also be chosen at random for a chance to win a $25.00 e-gift card from Jerrys.

Each week I will announce the next featured blog for you to visit, and there you will find a new secret word or words that you will need to collect along your way from blog to blog. Once you have collected all the words from each blog you visit, they will work out to say a very artsy phrase. Here are the rules:

For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those contestants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!
Three winners will be randomly drawn. One for the $200.00 e-card to Jerry's, and two runner's up for the 25.00 e-card to Jerrys.
Week by week we'll go from one blog to the next!

Remember to collect all the secret words. These words will work out to say a very artful phrase, and you'll need all the pieces to be eligible for the final prize drawings!

Please HOP over and visit the Amazing Animal Portrait Artist...
Elizabeth G. Johnson

http://windandhoney.blogspot.com/

(Pick Up the Next Secret Word)

Yippee ,I am in the spotlight this week.

2012-01-14T22:57:00.001-06:00

Artful Gathering Event Registration is Open!

I'm the Spotlight Artist for The Artful Gathering Blog Hop!
Follow along with me for fun, creativity, and a chance to win a

$200.00 e-gift card from Jerry's Artarama!

This summer I will be teaching TWO fabulous premiere video workshops at

The Artful Gathering Online Art Retreat 2012

Mosaics for the Absolute Beginner

From June 6 to July 17

Welcome to the world of mosaics, the Laura way! This approximately 3 hour introductory class will introduce beginners to the basics of mosaic creating: the astonishing array of materials and adhesives, design and composition, and the cutting and laying of tile.

Supplies such as glass tile, ceramic tile, sheet glass, and china are available from vendors on the supply list, which will be included with paid class. No prior art experience is necessary, just an openness to numerous possibilities that you can create with mosaic art. This will be a fun and relaxing experience! This class does not include grouting techniques, but does include instructions for two 4x4” mosaic blocks. Patterns will also be included. I look forward to meeting you!

And...

Introduction to Mosaic with a Twist

From July 15 - August 25

This informative class will cover all the basic information students will need to finish a 10 x 10 inch mirror project. This 2 to 3 hour class will include patterns to follow and is intended for a more seasoned beginner who wants to learn more on the process of creating a mosaic piece; cutting, adhesion, tile layout, and grouting. Students will be introduced to materials such as glass tile, art glass, china, ceramic tile, and more. Students are encouraged to experiment with color and texture to discover the possibilities of mosaic. A supply list will be included at signup with a resource for vendors. Grouting techniques will be included. Let’s get ready to have fun!

Come Hop With US!

Hop Rules:

If you would like to hop with us and meet all the super awesome Artful Gathering 2012 Art Instructors, and have a chance to win a random drawing prize in our random drawing, then hop with us! Each week, I will announce the blog for you to visit, and off you go to meet them, and to pick up the newest secret word. Your chance to win prizes....

For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those contestants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!
Three winners will be randomly drawn. One for the $200.00 e-card to Jerry's, and two runner's up for the 25.00 e-card to Jerrys.

This weeks word is ......PICTURES
Next week, I'll announce the next person to hop to. Good luck!!!

Ever heard of a Blog Hop?

2012-01-07T23:10:00.000-06:00

Celebrating Artful Gathering 2012 Online Art Retreat,
Open for Registration!
Blog Hop your way for chance to win!

From June to August 2012, ArtfulGathering.com will be presenting TWO exciting semesters of premiere online video workshops offered by fabulous artists who are known nationally and internationally-including myself. We are all very excited to share out knowledge, skill, and creativity with you, and we hope that you will join us for this AMAZING annual online event.

Blog Hop with us for a chance to win a prizes from Jerry's Artarama!

Each week the faculty of Artful Gathering will be announcing a featured blog to visit.

You can hop along with us until the final destination blog is reached, and where ONE Grand Prize winner will be chosen at Random for a chance to win a

$200.00 e-gift card from Jerry's Artarama!!!

Two Runner Up winners will also be chosen at random for a chance to win a

$25.00 e-gift card from Jerry's Artarama!!!

Each week I will announce the next featured blog for you to visit, and there you will find a new secret word or words that you will need to collect along your way from blog to blog. Once you have collected all the words from each blog you visit, they will work out to say a very artsy phrase. Here are the rules:

Blog Hoppers need to Register for the Artful Gathering 2012 Event to be eligible for the Grand Prize Drawing, AND must have all the secret puzzle words collected from each instructors blog.
Runner up prizes will be randomly selected from all participants. Registration to Artful Gathering is not required, but blog hoppers will need to have all the secret puzzle words to be eligible to win.

Week by week we'll go from one blog to the next!

Remember to collect all the secret words. These words will work out to say a very artful phrase, and you'll need all the pieces to be eligible for the final prize drawings!

Please HOP over and visit the Amazing

Jodi Ohl

www.sweetrepeats.blogspot.com

Yes! I have gift certificates.

2011-12-08T12:29:00.001-06:00

Can’t think of a gift that would be perfect? I can. The my studio offers gift certificates that can be used for mosaic, jewelry or artwork, even classes! You can’t go wrong. I have a whole new line of mosaic jewelry and would love to customize it for you.
Yellow Jacket fan? USC fan? Tigers? Dogs? Up to six letters can be used.

HO HO HO!

Laura.

This is easy peasy. Just click buy now and then add the amount that you would like to purchase. In turn I will send you a custom gift certificate that you can print for your special gift giving.

That’s it!

Told you it was easy peasy!

Yes! I have gift certificates.

2011-12-08T11:53:00.001-06:00

HO HO HO!

Laura.

This is easy peasy. Just click buy now and then add the amount that you would like to purchase. In turn I will send you a custom gift certificate that you can print for your special gift giving.

That’s it!

Told you it was easy peasy!

Just listed!

2011-12-01T17:12:00.001-06:00

I have just listed a few new things at Etsy. When you have time, take a look!

This piece is titled “I Wish you Blessing from Above” She is a stylized original painting of mixed media. She started as a poured painting with different colored paints. When dried, I found the image and pulled in the sweet little animals. It’s kind of like making figures out of clouds.

More info in my shop at Etsy :)

She is Thankful for Today

2011-11-26T10:40:00.001-06:00

I have been participating in a mosaic exchange now for about 9 years. This year my piece went to Finland. (Isn’t wild to think how small the world is now due to the internet.) Her face is hand-painted with broken china for the blouse. Glazed ceramic makes up the dress. The background is vitreous glass cut in little squares and rectangles.

I think she is precious. I hope she likes her new home across the waters.

Artful Gathering 2011 - Online Art Retreat!

2011-11-09T16:31:00.001-06:00

I am so excited that this year I will an instructor in The Artful Gathering 2012
Be sure to check out the blogsite for more information.

Over twenty diverse art classes!

Come on and join the fun this summer!

New watercolor, appearing now!

2011-09-19T21:44:00.001-05:00

“She Loves Simple”

original watercolor

©Laura K. Aiken

Prints available

easy peasy…

2011-08-29T22:09:00.001-05:00

Another class I was able to attend this summer was with Jane LaFazio. This class was also offered at Random Art Studio. My goal was to learn how to move the paint faster and easier without a lot of worry. First I did my outline, which was a pattern from a tile and then I added the watercolor. So much fun. Then for some reason…I decided to add zentangles. I think I got a little carried away. :)

Thanks for stopping by!

My Summer Fun…

2011-08-25T21:20:00.001-05:00

Does this bird make me look fat?

oops! I can’t remember everyone’s name…

The early bird get the worm.

This summer I was delighted to attended Helen Shafer Garcia’s watercolor class at Random Arts in Saluda, NC. We all had the best time. So much fun to finally meet, in person, folks that you have “talked” with via Facebook. If you have a chance be sure and take a class with Helen….and don’t forget to check out Jane Powell at Random Arts, she will be opening her new shop/studio soon. It’s really going to be nice!

Lots of fun stuff is happening in Laura Land! Coming soon-

Finally….a finished handbag!

2011-08-22T21:06:00.001-05:00

This is my fourth year to contribute a handpainted handbag for the South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation, Handbags for Hope. Such a fun project and I always do it at the extreme last minute. I didn’t even think I was going to be able to create one this year…but I am so glad I did.
Come to the auction and be intrigued by tons of other beautiful handbags by Greenville Artists.

Thursday, September 22 at the Upcountry History Museum

It’s for a wonderful cause, with great food and delicious wine!

Coming soon to a studio near you!

2011-08-15T10:37:00.001-05:00

I have been having so much fun getting prepared for Greenville’s Open Studios coming up. Go ahead and mark you calendars now for November 4-6th.
Tons of artists in Greenville will be showing off their works in their own studios!

Color Choices

2011-07-28T23:41:00.001-05:00

Do you ever wonder how to come up with a color scheme? Take a look at nature.

There you have it!

What goes around, comes around…

2011-07-21T21:23:00.001-05:00

So far this has been a great week. I have been painting (the best part of all) and dare I say, cleaning out my studio. Oh, what a chore that I wish I had not started. It’s coming along but trying to decide what goes where and do I really need this? For example, I have a large box of nothing but stained glass. I haven’t touched this in a year. Keep or donate? I have an oversized window, one that I wanted to mosaic-haven’t touched in a year-keep or donate? Do I keep both in hopes of pulling off the creation? Maybe I should just have an artist yardsale.

I did come across my first mosaic, a birdhouse. As I looked at that cute little blue stained glass mosaic I thought back on the different stages of my artistic life. The girl who loved to color, painted Minnie Mouse key chains and make pocketbooks out of tin buckets has come quite a ways. What is really ironic is that I am working with a friend Julia, whom I have known since my early teens. My mentor Suzanne Green taught Julia to paint and instruct. Now, 30 years later (or more-yikes!) I have a studio and teach at Julia’s studio. I never would have thought this would happen, although always dreamed of having my own place and teaching. So, I guess it is funny what life has in store for us. It’s called following your dreams and doing what you love, if at all possible. Even though it may drive your family crazy and your in-laws to drink! I cannot imagine a day without creating, whether it is pushing paint with water, acrylic or gluing a piece of tile to make a mosaic pendant, I have to create! So with all that being said, soon I will have a spick and span studio that I hope you will come visit. Lots of new artwork and jewelry are in the making and you can come watch! Thank you for making this all possible for me with your support.

Laura.

After all this cleaning, I do hope people will be able to tell! :)

Fun with Mixed Media Techniques

2011-05-25T09:48:00.003-05:00

Just a reminder about classes

2011-05-25T09:46:00.003-05:00

Another Fun Saturday with Mosaics

2011-05-21T16:05:00.001-05:00

Be on the watch for another coupon coming soon!! I love suggestions for other classes that you would like to see offered.

Technorati Tags: living social,laura k aiken,10 central ave,greenville,sc,art classes,children art camp

...believe in your own individuality

2011-02-20T19:38:00.002-06:00

Learn to limit yourself; to content yourself with some definite work; dare to be what you are and learn to resign with a good grace all that you are not;

and to believe in your own individuality.

~ Henri Frederic Amiel

I came across PerfectSentiment's blog today and the above stentiment really hit home with me. I like it and want to keep it around. Be sure and visit Erin's blog too.

Saturday Mosaic Class

2011-02-13T22:14:00.000-06:00

Laura K. Aiken Mosaics 2011

http://www.laurakaiken.com/

Mama Loves Her Baby Bunny

2011-01-25T17:18:00.000-06:00

This is my newest watercolor illustration, "Mama Loves Her Bunny".

The colors can be changed for a boy or if you have twins or......

The frame here is for demostration purposes only.

Giclee printing starting at $35

email laura@laurakaiken.com

Highly Prized a sketchbook entry

2011-01-16T11:58:00.001-06:00

Get all the details on the sketchbook challenge here.

This year I decided to participate in a sketchbook challenge. I try to sketch every night so I figured this shouldn’t be too hard for me to keep up with. PLUS you have a month to get it done. You may want to give it a try too! Follow the link above to find out more.

Maybe I will see you there!

laura.

Technorati Tags: jan246

Bella Pilar featured artist in skirt! magazine

2011-01-15T21:12:00.001-06:00

Oh, I am crazy about this illustration! Don’t you just love her fishnet tights and tattoos!

I wonder where she has been and where she is going? She just fills me with inspiration.

Congratulations Bella Pilar, for gracing skirt! magazine with your featured artwork.

I want to be like this when I grow up!

laura.

The Trials

2011-01-12T21:19:00.000-06:00

Here in Greenville, we had an art competition called Flat Under Pressure,

sponsored by the Greenville Metropolitan Arts Council --follow the

link to find out more about it. Well, I participated again this year and

I can't tell you how much fun it was! The thing is, that my projects

never turn out the way I intended. I had such a great idea! Where did it go?

I do like what I ended with, but -well-......oh well. Does this ever happen to you?

Can't wait until next year!

The Story Brandi Cartile

Laura's bookshelf: The Secret Lives of Princesses

2010-12-31T14:40:00.002-06:00

I just bought this book! So inspiring and beautiful pictures.
Lot's of inspiration, plus the story line is adorable.
(I can't wait to see what new characters I create.)

The Secret Lives of Princesses

Philippe Lechermeier (Hardcover - Jun 1, 2010)

These are all…..

2010-12-23T14:50:00.004-06:00

SOLD!

I am so excited. I do have a couple more left that I would be glad to share.

Take a peek at my shop on ETSY

Better get it on!

2010-12-22T11:15:00.001-06:00

Only a few more days.....I deliver locally!

Series Original Art

2010-12-13T16:48:00.002-06:00

Don’t miss out on this precious angel that is a part of my angel series for 2010.

She is on watercolor paper and created with watercolor. Framed she is $35 unframed $25.
Don’t forget is is a one of a kind original.

Original Art 4x6 inch - Don't miss out!

2010-12-09T11:36:00.000-06:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.co

Tiles Gone Wild

2010-12-09T11:30:00.002-06:00

Tiles Gone Wild: New Directions In Mixed Media Mosaics
Chrissie Grace
Have you seen this cute book by Crissie Grace. It is so cute!
I know you will love it.

skirt! loves me….

2010-12-01T22:37:00.001-06:00

I am so proud to be featured, or rather my pendants have, in skirt! magazine this month for their skirt! loves. If you haven’t picked up a skirt! magazine before, then you don’t know what you are missing. Lots of fun read and fun graphics. Thank you skirt! for loving me. :) You made my day.

Laura.

ps. don’t forget to check out my Etsy Shop, I just added some new pieces!

Mosaic Pendant Giveaway…

2010-11-16T11:18:00.001-06:00

http://knackstudios.blogspot.com/

I am so excited about my pendant giveaway! A few weeks ago I invited my friend Barb from Knack Studios over to check out my kind of new studio. I wanted to share with her some of my exciting new work! Pendants are my fall and winter items. I hand create each piece unique with tiny tiles, silver charms, glass bits or whatever I can find. I then carefully place each piece with tweezers and a huge magnifying glass! They are created in a lead-free pewter base and topped off with a sturdy chain. You will not see two alike. Say you want earring to match? Will do! They are hand created to order.

So-- go get your Knackage on with Barb, and her beautiful refinished art furniture.. She is just incredible with her gift. Thank you Barb for hosting me!

NOW GO SIGNUP for the GIVEAWAY!

Beautiful Day in SC

2010-11-15T15:12:00.001-06:00

It’s hard to find good workers…

2010-11-02T13:54:00.001-05:00

Even the easiest things - I can’t get my assistant to do.

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,melange team,mosaic,art,classes

It’s just about to show-out here

2010-10-31T12:03:00.000-05:00

The leaves are changing and around here in Greenville/Greer,

and they are just about to bust loose.

My blog friend Sue from Life Looms Large is showing photos from readers and their areas.

Be sure to check out all the color on Sue’s blog!

Lost for decorating ideas?

2010-10-28T11:32:00.001-05:00

Don’t you love clean lines? It doesn’t take much to make a room look inviting.

Beautiful artwork and vibrate color!

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,gidget comes alive,mixed media painting,fine art american,etsy,decor,greer sc,greenville sc,melange team

She’s here!

2010-10-22T10:23:00.001-05:00

Yellow Bella has been dying to show herself. She is a baby of my new pendant collection! Yellow and Golds make this a great wearable piece of art.

Find me on Etsy!

Open Studios 2010 Be There!

2010-10-20T12:14:00.000-05:00

Lot of new artsy fun!

New paintings!

New mosaics!

New pendants!

but no new me.

Hope to see you there.

Some days….

2010-10-13T21:23:00.001-05:00

You just feel like taking a sick day. Even though I work for myself, I still burn out. I more or less just shut down creatively. And too, knowing that busy busy season is just ahead is making me slow down even more. So it was time to just work at home and enjoy the day. I am so glad I did. It was paradise. You should try it. I even enjoyed washing clothes. …..what did I say?

robyn gordon’s south african wood carvings

2010-10-06T09:50:00.000-05:00

robyn gordon’s south african wood carvings: "

I had to share this entry from DailyArtMuse. I just love what Robyn has done here. Enjoy!

Carved wooden totems, doors and panels tell the story of Robyn Gordon’s life in South Africa. I am drawn to her niche carvings, resting places for symbols of the land she calls home and her British ancestry. A self taught artist, Gordon’s work is sometimes playful, often a thoughtful response to current events and always full of rich details, including the wire, beads and found objects she incorporates into each sculpture.

“The totems ‘speak’ of legends that have been passed down from one generation to the next. They are meditative pieces which bring me a great sense of peace.” Robyn Gordon

Prayers For Our Daughters

Carved in response the current crisis of genocide/gendercide in India

Robyn is also the author of the popular blog Art Propelled, where she shares her work in progress as well as thoughts on creativity, photos and links to art she has come across on the internet. The blog enjoys a large and loyal readership who comment regularly – a spirited bunch that feeds her creativity – do visit to see for yourself.

Sketch of totem

Door

Secret Portals, decorative door

“This door is my representation of a secret portal behind which ancient secrets are kept. In Africa there are many secret portals where objects used for rituals and ceremonies are hidden. Masks, reliquaries and sacred vessels are often only brought out during ceremonies and rituals. Sometimes sacred objects are viewed only by those who have proper rank and knowledge to do so.” Robyn Gordon

Tribal Secrets

“I strive to keep my work different to what is out there but I’m definitely influenced by the tribal art of Africa as well as tribal art world wide. On the one hand I want to convey a feeling of ancient tribes with stories to tell and on the other a love for gathering which I think is an instinct alive in most of us.” Robyn Gordon

You can read interviews with the artist here and here. Many more images on her Flickr site.

“The patterns, objects, symbols are all of this land. No matter what tribe we belong to we who were born in this country belong here and make South Africa what it is.” Robyn Gordon

Improvisational Quilting Workshop *

2010-10-04T10:28:00.001-05:00

Since I had just posted on Gee’s Bend quilters, I though I would pass this along too. It’s almost like mosaic in cloth!

Improvisational Quilting Workshop *

Event Type: Gee's Bend
Date: 10/9/2010
Start Time: 10:00 AM
End Time: 3:00 PM

Description:

Learn about improvisational quilting, a technique used by the Gee’s Bend quilters, and create some blocks to make a library quilt in the Gee’s Bend style. All skill levels are welcome and feel free to bring your own machine.

Library: Main Library Directions to the Main Library
Location: Lucy Hampton Bostick Auditorium
Contact Number: 929-3457

Technorati Tags: gee's bend quilters,columbia sc,laura k aiken,workshops,quilting

Greer Boxcar Project

2010-09-30T11:56:00.000-05:00

Nothing like being a little late. teehee

Gee’s Bend Quilters! Columbia SC

2010-09-30T10:56:00.001-05:00

Gee's Bend Quilters

Home » Gee's Bend Quilters

The Quilters of Gee's Bend will visit Columbia, SC

in October. Click on the images below for more information about the quilts, the quilters and the exhibit.

I can’t wait!!

Interested in supporting this event? Please call Tina Gills in RCPL's Development office at 929-3424 for more information

Technorati Tags: quilters of Gee's Bend,laura k aiken,columbia sc,alabama,richland county public library

Good time by all…..

2010-09-27T13:46:00.001-05:00

Big thank you goes to Greer Station and Sheril Turner for organizing Greer’s annual art walk. I was fortunate enough to team with Talloni, a shoe salon to exhibit a sampling of my artwork. It sure proved to be a successful day. What fun we had!

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,talloni,kristy mabry,greer station,sc

This Saturday! Shoes, Art and………..

2010-09-23T12:47:00.001-05:00

Oh I can’t wait..

Talloni, a shoe salon and I will be teaming up for Greer’s Annual Art Walk!

Saturday September 26th – 11:00 to 4:00

Be sure to stop by and drown in beautiful funky shoes and whimsical art. I can’t wait to see all my friends and family. Be the first to view my new jewelry designs + more!

113 E. Poinsett Street, Historic Greer, South Carolina 29651 | 864.801.1880

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,talloni,greer,sc,art,whimsical paintings,mosaic,jewelry,shoes,kristy mabry

Mosaics from Laurel Skye with beautiful music by Tina Amidon

2010-09-16T09:54:00.002-05:00

Nancie from Mosaic Art Now, just posted this wonderful video of Laurel Skye with music by Tina Amidon.

Laurel is one of my favorite mosaic artists. I am sure you will enjoy viewing her home of mosaics and also listening to the beautiful music by Tina Amidon.

After the video please take time to visit Mosaic Art Now and really see what the mosaic world is all about.

Be sure and check out Laurel's latest book!

Art for Paws 2010 Mark your calendars

2010-09-06T16:53:00.001-05:00

See the other entries that our artists have donated!

Technorati Tags: art for paws,laurakaiken,laura k aiken,10 Central Ave,Greenville Animal Shelter

I’ve been spotted!

2010-09-06T14:10:00.001-05:00

http://www.pinkandgreenscene.com/2010/09/gidget-comes-alive-8x10-print.html

Thank you Erin from Decorbycolor for highlighting my Gidget acrylic mixed media painting. This post made my day. For those of you who don’t follow Erin, she has several beautiful blogs, even a couple for Turquoise! (-ofcourse my favorite.)

Be sure and stop by and dream with her decor by color blogs.

Handbags for Hope 2010

2010-08-29T21:49:00.001-05:00

Finally finished my Handbag for Hope (Ovarian Cancer Society) entry this year. I enjoy creating these handbags, this will be my fourth one! The auction will be held at the History Museum of Greenville, SC- September 28. This is a really fun event with wonderful food and wine. Try to attend and support the SC Ovarian Cancer Society.

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,handbags for hope,cancer society,mosaic

You had better get on the Train!

2010-08-27T09:49:00.001-05:00

Sign ups for September classes are being taken now. Check out http://www.amosaicstudio.blogspot.com for times and dates. These projects make lovely gifts and they are so fun to create. Below is from the fused glass class. I offer mixed media techniques, mosaic and fused glass. I also make special arrangements for classes of 4 or more.

Six Little Preludes - Work In Progress by Barbara Keith Designs

2010-08-19T10:26:00.001-05:00

I just think Barbara Keith is so talented that I wanted to share her work with you. I love using her books in my mosaic workshops. She uses so many ways to shape and cut class. Take time to visit here site and see her current projects.

Six Little Preludes - Work In Progress: "

Left over wallpaper - DIY

2010-08-18T08:30:00.001-05:00

I just love this blog: Ada and Darcy I get so much inspiration from her posts. Take a look and see what you think!

Left over wallpaper - DIY: "I love this DIY project from Shannon Fricke who did this for The Woman's Weekly - the perfect way to jazz up an old piece of furniture whilst making stunning use of those left over wallpaper pieces that you just didn't quite know what to do with! Clever lady she is!

Sicis tile--take a look

2010-08-03T15:25:00.000-05:00

http://www.sicis.com/sicis-art-gallery.php?lingua=ita

Take this link to view incredible mosaics by Sicis the best in tile mosaics. Have fun! Thank you goes to Paul Anater from http://www.kitchenandresidentialdesign.com/ go check out his blog!

Laura K Aiken Blog
(aiken is featured in book)

Welcome Home

2010-07-21T23:11:00.002-05:00

Welcome Home is one of my newest paintings. It’s a stylized painting created for those men and women that know that same feeling. That kiss is the most precious moment for service member. I know that feeling as a retired USAF spouse.
acrylic mixed media, markers, pens, pencils- 8x12 canvas

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,military,navy,love,romance,pier,blue,red,ships,10 central avenue,greer,sc,greenville

Don’t cha just hate it-

2010-07-21T11:10:00.002-05:00

----when your website is down. UGH! I might be something I did, but how could that be??? :) I just want to make a note of it in case that special person was looking for my site. Enjoy my blog while you are here though.

Happy Wednesday!
Laura.
mixed media, paint, pencils, markers, fused glass, metal letters.

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,mosaic,mixed media,sc,greer

Brighten your Room

2010-07-13T22:36:00.001-05:00

I don’t know anyone that doesn’t love Sunflowers!

image: At Home with Donald A. Gardner
mosaic artist: Laura K. Aiken

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,mosaic art,10 central ave stuidos,sunflower,mirror,decor,living spaces,tile,glass,Donald A. Gardner,HOME,fresh,greenville,sc

Squared Tiles-Backsplash

2010-07-12T17:32:00.001-05:00

Fun colors fun pattern. Whoever thought? Love it.

image: claysquared.com
artist: Lori Braun

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,lori braun,mosaic,claysquared,tile mosaic backsplash,kitchens,greenville,greer,south carolina,sc,artist

Be Square...

2010-07-07T23:00:00.001-05:00

I really like this pattern. Very unique, but I would like it in another color pattern, don't know what though. Check out the window.

Create or commission this backsplash-

image: Hakatai

Workshops for All!

2010-07-06T19:43:00.000-05:00

Yes! Cute guys take workshops too!

Greg created a Mother's Day Birdhouse.

2010-07-01T22:15:00.000-05:00

Try this, bet you didn't think about this pattern. Really cool.

image: Hakatai x

Learn to Mosaic a Backsplash!

2010-06-30T14:23:00.001-05:00

Design your own backsplash design? Easy-You can learn here.

image: Laura K. Aiken x

2010-06-29T17:20:00.000-05:00

How pretty is this? Your basic colors that don't just jump out...classic.

image: HGTV

Mosaic Backsplash

2010-06-28T09:13:00.001-05:00

Simple Simple—but is so unique.

Image: HGTV

Technorati Tags: hgtv,mosaic backsplash,custom mosaic,laura k aiken,workshops,10 central avenue Studios

Summer Workshops

2010-06-14T09:33:00.000-05:00

Summer Workshops

Mosaic Icons: Oksana Prokopenko

2010-06-10T21:17:00.001-05:00

http://www.oksanapro.com/

I enjoyed this video so much that I must share it with you. What a talented woman.

Technorati Tags: mosaic icons,information

New July –September Workshop Schedule

2010-06-04T10:09:00.001-05:00

Take a look at the new schedule! Hope to see you soon! www.amosaicstudio.blogspot.com

Matisse-and the Chapelle Durosaire

2010-05-29T10:15:00.001-05:00

A thank you goes to Terry at Idle Speculations Blogspot for posting this to his wonderful blog.

http://idlespeculations-terryprest.blogspot.com/2010/05/henri-matisse-and-chapelle-du-rosaire.html#links

Ode to Modigliani!

2010-05-27T13:17:00.001-05:00

This is my latest painting, a recreation of Amedeo Modigliani's, Man with Wine Glass
I just love his expression!

acrylic and underpainting.

Technorati Tags: modigliani,laura k aiken,mosaic workshops,acrylic. recreation.

Greenville Grow Expo

2010-05-25T12:44:00.001-05:00

Come and meet several artists from Metropolitan Art Council, Open Studios! We will be there today from 1:00-4:00 including a silent auction on beautiful artwork. Also enjoy meeting vendors from Greenville and getting to know them.

CHILDREN'S ART CAMP!

2010-05-23T17:03:00.001-05:00

Please register soon.

Ages 8 and up, each session is one week long and all materials are included. Each session is $135.00 Schedule is a follows.

All sessions are one week in length.

FIRST SESSION – June 7 ^th through June 11th

June 7, 2:30 to 4:30 , paint & clay art with Reta Cooper.

June 8, 2:30 to 4:30 , paint & clay art with Reta Cooper.

June 9, 2:30 to 4:30 , painting and printmaking with Julia Peters.

June 10, 2:30 to 4:30 , mosaics with Laura K. Aiken.

June 11, 2:30 to 4:30 , painting and printmaking with Julia Peters.

SECOND SESSION – June 21^st through June 25th

June 21, 2:30 to 4:30 , paint & clay art with Reta Cooper.

June 22, 2:30 to 4:30 , paint & clay art with Reta Cooper.

June 23, 2:30 to 4:30 , painting and printmaking with Julia Peters.

June 24, 2:30 to 4:30 , mosaics with Laura K. Aiken.

June 25, 2:30 to 4:30 , painting and printmaking with Julia Peters.

THIRD SESSION. – July 12^th through July 16^th

July 12, 2:30 to 4:30 , paint & clay art with Reta Cooper.

July 13, 2:30 to 4:30 , paint & clay art with Reta Cooper.

July 14, 2:30 to 4:30 , painting and printmaking with Julia Peters.

July 15, 2:30 to 4:30 , mosaics with Laura K. Aiken.

July 16, 2:30 to 4:30 , painting and printmaking with Julia Peters.

You must register in advance to reserve your place. Call 864-370-0301 today.

Technorati Tags: childrens art camp,childrens art,fun,10 Central Avenue Studios,laura k aiken,reta cooper,julia peters

Mosaic Beauty!

2010-05-23T14:32:00.000-05:00

I was so proud my student, Yves! Isn’t this piece beautiful? It was created using Orsoni Smalti from MosaicSmalti. We chose to use a different technique using mosaicfilm. You can learn this method too in my mosaic workshop! New schedule coming soon!

Technorati Tags: mosaic workshops,mosaic,smalti,laura k aiken,10 central ave studios

Mosaic Bragging

2010-05-18T21:20:00.001-05:00

"Aaarrrghts for All" Congratulations to my friend Jenny Perry for a wonderful show at the Lawton Arts for All festival, in Oklahoma

Jenny was chosen as the featured artist for the festival and chosen to create the
art they used for the t-shirt and all the advertisements! Don’t you just love her pirate.

New workshops gearing up soon!

2010-05-18T09:49:00.001-05:00

New workshop schedule will be out soon, so be on the look out. We are closing up our last session and starting fresh in June. Below is Teresa working on her mosaic mirror, which I will say - will be beautiful. call 864-360-3811 for more information.

Technorati Tags: mosaic workshops,10 central ave stuidos,laura k aiken

Mark you calendar!

2010-05-12T22:45:00.001-05:00

Jill Schmidt will be having her first solo show in our new location May 21, 2010. You don’t want to miss this event. Jill promises to captivate your attention with her variety of mediums.

Much luck to you Jill!!

10 Central Avenue Studios is an art gallery, artist studio, and art education business shared by 15 other area artists and owned and operated by Julia and Jeff Peters.

Be smart, buy local art.

Technorati Tags: jill schmdit,abstract,portrait,exhibition,central avenue studios

Handbags for Hope is gearing up!

2010-05-11T13:50:00.001-05:00

Well it’s getting to be that time again. This will be my fourth year in participating in the Ovarian Cancer Society, Handbags for Hope. It’s such a fun and rewarding event. What’s a girl to do. Stay tuned to this ever changing design. Will it be a painted or mosaic bag? Actually I would love to do both!

2009 Handbags for Hope by Laura K. Aiken

Here is a sample of some of last years bags:
http://handbagsforhope.blogspot.com/

Why don’t you join in this year?

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

SAVE THE DATE

Handbags for Hope Silent purse auction and

Thursday, September 23rd Upcountry History Museum

Tiki Bowl 2010

2010-05-09T23:11:00.001-05:00

The Tiki Bowl, a fund-raiser for the American Advertising Federation's Greenville chapter, was held at Golden Park Lanes in Simpsonville Thursday, May 6, 2010. Teams of four bowled for prizes, and participants bid on bowling pin art designed by local artists. I was fortunate enough to participate is this fun event. Below is a link to the slide show at Metromix and photos of my bowling pin, “Miss Pinette” She’s been through a rough time.

Tiki Bowl | Photo 1/36 | Metromix Greenville

Technorati Tags: laura k aiken,tiki bowl,mosaic,greenville,greer,american advertising federation,sc

Live from Windows Live

2010-05-08T15:46:00.002-05:00

Well I am finally back after a long sabbatical. No, actually it seems there is more to having a studio outside your home than I thought. There is life outside my little room and it’s great! I am going to try my best to post at least once a week. I thought I would work with Windows Live, since I have a new laptop (finally) seems like a good challenge for me. So far so fun.

Below is a photo of Haley, a high school senior that chose me for her mentor for her senior project. What talent she had. I hate it when people say they don’t have talent, that’s when you need to back up and watch out!

Haley. designed and created these beautiful 4 season mosaic stepping stones. I just love them. I am so grateful to have met Haley and share her senior year with her. Good luck girlie!

Oh by the way we used MosaicFilm and it worked beautifully!

Technorati Tags: mosaic,mosaic workshops,creative workshop,laura k aiken,10 central ave stuidos

Henri Matisse's Great Leap Forward....(my main man)

2010-04-13T10:30:00.000-05:00

As my friend Mystele Kirkeeng calls it - I have a "field trip" for you. I am a lover of Matisse and try to follow his works closely. His love of color and lines just blow me away. If you are able to see his exhibition in Chicago you will not be disappointed. I hope you enjoy the slides.

"Matisse: Radical Invention, 1913-1917" was jointly organized by the Art Institute of Chicago and The Museum of Modern Art, New York, where it will travel after running in Chicago from March 20 through June 20. The exhibition dates in New York will be July 18 through October 11.

Read more: http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1976768_2097251,00.html#ixzz0kzdhhD5f

Patti Brady workshop

2010-03-29T20:59:00.002-05:00

What a great time we all had at

USC Upstate for Patti Brady's mixed media workshop.

Check out all the fun materials!

"GiGi" comes Alive!

2010-03-26T17:00:00.001-05:00

This turquoise mixed media painting is what I ended up with using the below canvas. Another "Pulled Art" creation that I named GiGi! She was created with acrylic paints, inks, recycled material, and fun.

It's Hard Being an Angel! -Recycled Art

2010-03-24T11:17:00.004-05:00

"It's Hard Being an Angel!"

10 Central Avenue Studios

Greenville, SC 29601

864-360-3811

Recycled paper, acrylics, colored pencils, stamps, imagination, and fun

From the Pulled Art Workshops

Starting this week! Sign up online now.

Mosaic by Stephanie

2010-03-23T13:12:00.001-05:00

Workshop student Stephanie, created a beautiful assorted tile mirror including Van Gogh, and vitreous glass. Way to go Stehanie, it really is a beautiful piece. I am so proud!

Laura Kennedy Aiken - Mosaics

10 Central Avenue Studios

Greenville, SC 29601

864-360-3811

New Painting started......

2010-03-23T12:38:00.000-05:00

Wait till you see what this is..

Scenes from the Mosaic Workshop

2010-03-23T12:31:00.001-05:00

Lisa is hard at work in the Mosaic Mirror Workshop. Sign-up now!

Laura K Aiken - Mosaics

10 Central Avenue Studios

Greenville, SC 29601

864-360-3811

Come see Me THursDay

2010-03-14T18:39:00.001-05:00

New WoRkShOp Schedule! March - April 2010

2010-03-11T11:18:00.004-06:00

Check out my revised workshop schedule for mosaic and mixed media!...and don't forget fused glass.
WORKSHOPS

Greer Station Boxcar Project 2010

2010-03-04T10:38:00.002-06:00

Sponsors and artists worked together to decorate ten 4’x16”x18” fiberglass replica train boxcars that celebrate Greer’s rich history as an important railroad stop and the businesses that now make up the Greer community. The decorated boxcars will be on public display for nine months, at which time
they will be auctioned off at a charitable event, and all proceeds will benefit Greer Relief and Resource Agency, the Greer Cultural Arts Council, and the Greer Station Association.
I was honored to be apart of my hometown's project!

Greer Station Boxcar Project 2010

2010-03-02T11:17:00.000-06:00

Come see the unveiling of these unique Boxcars at Greer Station Wednesday! It was so fun to create!! Think whimsy.

2010-03-02T11:12:00.000-06:00

Beautiful Suncatchers by Brenda and Jennifer!
Glass on Glass Workshop
Thanks girls for coming to see us!

SC Book Festival | Authors | 2010 Authors

2010-02-11T10:10:00.000-06:00

Coming soon to Columbia, South Carolina
SC Book Festival | Authors | 2010 Authors

New WoRkShOp Schedule!

2010-01-29T08:23:00.000-06:00

Click here for the link for my WOrkhSop Blog
New class offered plus mosaic and basic glass fusing!

It's almost here!

2010-01-25T14:51:00.001-06:00

Don't miss our First Friday, February 5th for our Valentine's Event. It will be a lot of fun, plus 10% of the proceeds will go to the American Heart Association! Works will be displayed by our artists at 10 Central Avenue Studios with the theme of RED.

Participating artists:
Laura Kennedy Aiken
Joseph J. Ambuhl
Susan Bridges-Smith
Reta Cooper
Mack McCloud
Julia Peters
Georgia Pistolis
Bob Santanello
Jill Schmidt
Patricia A. Thomas
Judith Woodward

Mosaics by Beth Norton - Welcome Back

2010-01-23T11:31:00.002-06:00

Welcome back to the art world sweet, Beth Norton . You are awsome!

Preview Mosaic Art Techniques: PORTRAIT

2010-01-15T10:19:00.002-06:00

Thank you Mark for my Facebook note.
"....... your works look very nice, I like the mosaic portrait.

If you love mosaic, you must visit Ravenna.
I work for the mosaic school, hope to meet you one day.
All the best, Mark"

PS-- this video was taken in our mosaic portrait workshop:

Yippie a new Blog Design!

2010-01-14T22:04:00.001-06:00

I won! I won!

I am so excited. I just love my new banner and look. Didn't she do a wonderful job?

Check out:

Thank you so much Cinnamon Girl Studio!

Great Art Events This Week! | skirt.com

2010-01-14T11:01:00.001-06:00

Great Art Events This Week! skirt.com: "Matisse and the Masters (Friday-Sunday) Florida

If you live near Jacksonville Florida, you will want to be HERE!

R.Roberts Gallery, 3606 St. Johns Avenue, is hosting a special event exhibition of works by “Modern Masters”. Drawings, etchings and linocuts by Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Joan Miro, Henri Matisse and Salvador Dali will be available for purchase. Pierre H. Matisse will also show his work, make a special guest appearance and conduct a children’s workshop. The event kicks off Friday at 6 p.m. with a special benefit reception. A percentage of the revenue from Friday evening will go directly to “Dreams Come True”. The artist receptions are Saturday from 6- 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1-3 p.m. The workshop for children ages 2-12 is Saturday from 11 a.m.-noon. (904)388-1188."

They are coming...

2010-01-10T11:57:00.001-06:00

SOON!

Swirl Me Turquoise by amosaicstudio on Etsy

2010-01-10T11:55:00.000-06:00

New in my Etsy Shop!
Swirl Me Turquoise by amosaicstudio on Etsy

I recycle almost all my mosaic materials into something else. This time it is earrings. I will strive this year to use nothing but material I have used in other projects-it all comes full circle. But ofcourse not the metal findings and such.

Enjoy!

JEANNE REYNAL mosaic artist

2010-01-03T17:00:00.000-06:00

JEANNE REYNAL

(1903 - 1983)

Last year I was lucky enough to see works of Jeanne Reynal at the Greenville County Museum of Art. I decided to finally look her up just to see what all she had accompished and just exactly who she was. I was full of surprise reading her information and I think you will too. Her husband wasn't so "bad" either in his artistic work. Below is the start of here article. Thanks to the Anita Shapolsky Gallery for this information.
.........................................................................
"I hope to show that the medium of mosaic is not painting with stones and not sculpture, but an art the essential quality of which is luminosity" a quote by Jeanne Reynal in the book The Mosaics of Jeanne Reynal. She acknowledged that the creation of Haghia Sophia, the great church in Istanbul, Turkey, during Byzantium times is the supreme example of architecture adorned with gold mosaic. From then on mosaic work started to change. During the Renaissance, the master painters designed mosaic paintings for churches and official buildings. They buried the quality of light by putting the stones close together and producing copies of paintings. Story continued click here

More informations on Jeanne Reynal and her husband here

Happy Happy!

2010-01-01T12:31:00.001-06:00

Happiest of New Years to You!

May your life be full of beautiful colors.

Thank you to all my friends and family for supporting me in my crazy adventures.

Laura.