The Takeaway

My head is still reeling from last weekend’s show at Hope Lutheran Church in South Park.  It was a memorable experience for many reasons.  About a dozen vendors filled the century old church to sell their wares.   A wall of stained glass windows provided a stunning backdrop for our booth.  The smell of old wood and history greeted each person as they entered the building.

Hope Lutheran is a small congregation now.  Most of their members are gone or housebound.  Around 20 worshipers continue to show up each Sunday.  Most of them wandered in to see the show on Saturday, proudly displaying tee shirts that announced their membership in the small church.  They were all eager to tell their story – a tale of generations that have been attending since the church was built.  This Saturday the church was full of energy and excitement.

Let’s face it – most of the artists at these shows are young enough to be my children.  They are full of talent, energy, hope and courage.  Maybe that’s why it is so exciting for me to be involved.  Being in this environment is infectious and inspiring.  Looking at their creations, listening to their stories and getting to know them makes the whole experience rich and rewarding – more than just a venue to sell products.

Lisa talked about having the courage to step away from her 9 to 5 job and start her own business.  Sue told us that her children’s clothing was inspired by her granddaughter (and favorite model) Olivia. Cathy (at her first show)  made us smile with her pet art.  There were photographers, makers of fairy gardens, a children’s author, artists, potters, printers and more.  Rachel and Rich shared not only their jewelry but their dream of turning the church into an art and community center.

I am happy to report that the art community in Dayton Ohio is flourishing and exciting and full of energy. It was in the air on Saturday and it has been with me all week. I brought home a few posters from Lisa Grass Schultz -(GrassGreenDesign.etsy.com) to inspire me and remind me of everything that is waiting for me next time.

Summer In The City

We finally made it through that brutal winter!  Spring is in full swing now – lots of light, color and flat out fun!

I didn’t plan on making a line of summer purses – it just “happened”.  I made a playful purse for myself, someone saw it and wanted one, someone saw hers and ordered one – and kaboom!  I have a new line!  I put away the wools and brought out the patterns.  The tweeds and herringbones are replaced with polka dots and florals.  They are light and happy and really fun to make! They are even fun to carry – they make me feel like I am going to a Summer party!

Sum, sum, summertime

I can’t wait to take all my purses to a  show that sounds like it is going to be lots of fun.  The Hope Art Center located in the historic South Park district just outside downtown Dayton is having a show June 21 – a perfect way to kick off the Summer.  There will be food, entertainment and, of course, crafts.  The building, which was an old neighborhood church, now houses the arts – ceramics, screen printing and classes have a new home in this beautiful building.  Shopping, touring, stopping for a cup of coffee – it sounds like a perfect way to start the summer.  Hope to see you there!

               Summer in the City

               Hope Art Center

               500 Hickory Street

           Dayton, Ohio

               Saturday, June 21

               10 am till 4 pm