The Wheels are Turning

I not only enjoy painting in oils but I am also fascinated by all kinds of mediums.  I love the idea of bringing familiar shapes to unexpected places.  Sometimes the simplest everyday object can take on new meaning when placed somewhere unusual.
Here is a little taste of that very thing.
This piece was made with watch workings placed on a gessoed background and sprayed.  I also added some wording just to make it more intriguing.
I was inspired by a Steam Punk show I had been to that had lots of wonderful metal contraptions ala H.G. Wells.

Donna Vines

Wheels

Steampunk

I know I am probably behind the times but  I  have to mention and art movement called "Steampunk" that I just love and am fascinated by.  It has been around for a few years and it incorporates the Victorian/Edwardian era, so think about 1870's on to about 1890's. 
It's main thrust is mechanical, involving lots of Jules Vernes, H.G. Wells type of inventions.  The dawn of the industrial age.  The dress is very eclectic and in most cases the men look much more interesting than the ladies.  To be authentic Steampunk you have to use old machinery and the cogs and wheels have to turn.
I was in Mt. Dora this week-end for a Steam punk show and it was wonderful.  I just loved looking at all the old beautiful but functional "machinery".  They even had a "Time Machine".  The costumes were pretty good too.  If you get a chance to see any Steampunk go for it and remember "art" can make anything beautiful.
Donna Vines



Getting into the spirit of things



Hmm, but looks good!!

Getting Ready for the Show

by Kathy Garvey

Every year the Pieces of 8 host their Annual Christmas Sale. This year it is on December 7th. A map will be on here in the coming weeks to help you find our usual location in West Melbourne.

Everyone of us is busy getting ready. There are paintings to complete, items to get matted and/or framed, cards to order, bird houses (our big surprise item this year) to paint, items to price - some with great bargain basement prices, and lots of decisions to be made.  Over the next few weeks til the sale, we'll all be posting what we're working on.

I'm "gearing up" with a series of steam punk style light switch covers for the event. These are standard sizes covered with polymer clay, impressed with gears, highlighted with metallic powders and polished off with an iridescent medium to protect them from wear and tear. They look smashing on the wall!

Save the date: December 7th from 9 to 4. We'll be posting a map! Hope to see you there.