Tuesday, August 28, 2012

ARTISAN FAIR AT DAYSHIFT BOUTIQUE SEPT. 8

On Saturday, September 8th, Dayshift Boutique will be hold its first artisan fair!  
It's called "Makeshift Market Artisan Fair".  This event is part of a larger festival called "Carbondale Rocks Revival II", which is a city-wide 3-day music festival taking place in Carbondale Sept 6-8.  

The Makeshift Market will feature 15 - 20 of the area's finest artisans and craftsmen set up outdoors in front of the Dayshift Boutique selling their wares.  There will also be a few live demonstrations including metal jewelry-making and an interactive 3-D sidewalk chalk mural by artist Mike Hottinger.  We will also have an Acoustic Stage featuring local musician playing through the day.  

For more information contact:


Chris McKinley
Dayshift Boutique
101 W. Monroe
Carbondale, IL  62901
618-529-days (3297)
dayshiftshop@gmail.com
Dayshift Carbondale on Facebook
@shopdayshift on Twitter

10th Annual Art in the Park in Vienna, Il.


Tenth Annual Art in the Park, Vienna, Il.  

This is a great opportunity to show and possibly sell your work in a one day event. No cost for booth space! Just show up, set up and go from there. You can be home before dark. 

Following are the details regarding the 10th Annual Art in the Park:

Date:   Sat., Sept. 8th, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.  

The Vienna City Park is located second block from the intersection of 146 and 45 on the North edge (on your right) of 146 on the way west from the second exit of I-24.  If the first exit is taken off I-24 then go right heading south on 45 and turn left at the intersection on to 146 going east second block on the North edge (on your left.) The park includes the restored Depot and the Tunnel Hill State Trail Building.  The Art in the Park area is the front part parallel to Highway 146 north of the parking lot starting at the Gazebo to the curve of the drive including the strip north of the Depot following the drive down to the curve.  Set-up is on a first come basis.  (Please
no motor homes.)

 A variety of arts and crafts including paintings, sketches, photography, books, needlework, quilting, jewelry, baking goods, jellies, candles, soaps, furniture, woodworking pottery, dolls, glass, toys and gift items can be viewed and purchased.    

Hotdogs, chips, cookies, water and sodas will be available for purchase from the hosts, Johnson County Homemakers Community Education Association. 

Contact:  Cara Webb:  618-995-2592 or email: carawebb@4siwi.com for any further information or confirmation of participation with exhibits. 

Monday, August 27, 2012

Three Upcoming Events at the Anna Arts Center, Anna, IL

1. What Do You Do with All of Your Photos?
Do you put them in a box? In an album? Why not put them in a book to share with your family and friends? Digital Scrapbooking helps you capture moments, create layouts that transform your moments into memories, and captivate your loved ones with your scrapbooks for generations to come.
Start your Labor Day weekend with a Free class on Digital Scrapbooking on Friday, August 31, from 6 – 8 pm at the Anna Arts Center. It will certainly get your creative juices flowing.  After you learn about the process, spend the other three days of the weekend capturing those perfect photographs of family and friends.
The class will be taught by Holly Place of Heritage Makers. She will also show you how to create greeting cards and other items. The class is Free and everyone is invited to attend. Refreshments will be served. For more information, Please call Betty at 618-697-4396.
2. Las Posadas celebrates Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem and their search for shelter prior to the birth of Christ.  Next planning meeting for the Nov 18 event is Sep 6, 6pm at the Anna Arts Center. Everyone is invited to come to the planning meetingFor More Information, please email vabchlee or call Lee 618-833-6525 home or 904-625-1109 cell.
3. It is Trivia Night hosted by Delta Theta Tau on Saturday, September 15, 2012, at the Anna VFW. It will start at 7pm and doors open at 6pm. Proceeds will benefit Anna Arts Center.MAX 8 personsper team, $15 per person. Cash Prizes to top 3 teams. Snacks are provided, but you can to bring your own too!Gather your family, friends, and co-workers for an evening of great fun. New in town? Don’t have a full team? We’ll help you join a group!For more information Email jannasweitzer@yahoo.com or Call 618-528-7742. Space is limited, so register today!!! Mail team info and check to1965 Wing Hill Road,Cobden IL 62920

Saturday, August 25, 2012

Labor Day Weekend Art Events in Cobden, IL


Cobden, IL has three sites for artists to display their work on Labor Day Weekend and there may still be room at any of the locations.  Here's the information (please contact each venue directly for more details):



Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Fall Festival

Downtown Park, Cobden, Friday, Aug. 31 and Saturday, Sept. 1     
2 - 8 p.m. each day
Booth fee - $35.00
Contact Brandy Nance at 618-218-4402 for more information.



 Pepperfest 2012
September 1, 2012 – Saturday, from 11:00 am  to 5:00 pm
At  Rancho Bella Vista  - Home of Darn Hot Peppers,LLC
825 Vines Road -  Cobden
 
Vendors’ fee    $ 15.00
Set up time        Saturday – starting at   9:00 am
Festival Hours    11:00am  – 5:00 pm
 
Register by Calling  -  618 893 1443  -  no later than August 30th



THE OLD FEED STORE

Artist-Vendor Booth Space available Labor Day Weekend, during and after the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Festival  

August 31 - September 2   Approximately 8 indoor spaces and 2 outdoor spaces available  $35 booth fee includes 2 tickets to Saturday night concert by Cold Pizza
Friday 10 a.m. set up / Sunday 3 p.m. tear down

111 N. Appleknocker, Cobden, IL  618-833-5807 or contact Ray at 618-525-2531 or Joe at 618-614-2732  Facebook:  The Old Feed Store


I hope you all have a great Labor Day Weekend!

Friday, June 1, 2012

R2RVAA Meeting June 12, 6:30 p.m. at The Edition at 315 in Anna


The River to River Visual Arts Association invites anyone interested in promoting southernmost Illinois art to an open meeting on Tuesday, June 12 from  6:30 -8:00 p.m. at The Edition at 315, 315 Christian Chapel Rd., Anna.

The non-profit association was formed to advocate for the economic and cultural value of the region's artists and artisans.  The group is planning to hold an art and fine crafts show, "Art at the Edition," during Union County Colorfest weekend Oct. 13 - 14, and is also exploring ways to help local artists benefit from southern Illinois tourism. 

Input is welcome from both artists and non-artists.  Civic leaders, businessmen and art patrons, as well as artists and artisans, are encouraged to attend.

For more information, please contact Sharon Wittke at sharonwittke@yahoo.com or (618) 697-5563.

Thursday, May 31, 2012

June 2012 Newsletter


“Art will never be able to exist without nature.”  - Pierre Bonnard


New Gallery in Goreville Features Wildlife Art of Abraham Hunter

At age 18, Abraham Hunter, a self-taught wildlife artist, has opened his own art gallery in Goreville - and it is a true delight to southern Illinoisans who have followed the young artist’s career for the past few years.

Hunter has won several prestigious awards for his paintings, most recently the Iowa Ducks Unlimited 2012-2013 Artist of the Year and the Iowa Ducks Unlimited People’s Choice for 2012-
2013, says his mother, Karla.

These two awards are among the first he has won since he began entering contests as an adult.  In April, his painting of a brown trout was the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environment Control’s top choice for their 2013 trout stamp.

Hunter won numerous youth awards beginning in 2008 for his wildlife paintings, including first place in the
2011 Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest.

His new gallery, which opened earlier this spring, features his wildlife paintings of ducks, fish, and mammals found in southern Illinois, and both rural and western landscapes. Prints of his annual Christmas scenes for
2010 and 2011 are on display as well.

In a separate room from the main gallery is a display of Hunter’s artwork since he was 12, which, Karla Hunter says,  is when her son first became interested in painting. Visitors can see for themselves how Hunter devel- oped as an artist during the past six years.

The contrast between his first painting as a 12-year-old, a landscape featuring birds of prey, to the ones he did only a few months later, is startling. Viewers can see how Hunter adopted various techniques while his focus always remained on wildlife.

The gallery is located at 1308 Broadway, Goreville.   For more information, call 618-995-2006.


Happening in June...



River to River Visual Arts Association Meeting

When:  June 12   6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Where:  The Edition at 315, 315 Christian Chapel Rd.
Anna www.theeditionat315.com

Description: Anyone and everyone who cares about promoting the visual art and crafts of southernmost Illinois is invited to the first open meeting of the River to River Visual Arts Association. The associa- tion is sponsoring the  “Art at the Edition” Art and Craft Show during Union County’s Colorfest in Oc- tober and has the goal of promoting local art to the many tourists who visit the region. Whether you’re an artist, a businessperson, an art aficionado or a civic leader, your input is welcome. For information about the meeting or the show call (618) 697-5563.



Anna Arts Center Schedules Summer Classes

When:  June 14 - various dates

Where:  Anna Arts Center, 125 W. Davie St. Anna

Description: Anna Arts Center is offering a variety of art classes for children and adults starting June
14. The schedule includes classes in jewelry making, puppetry, painting, crocheting, sewing and pho- tography and Photoshop. For more information or
to register for a class, call (618) 833-6525 or email
vabchlee@gmail.com.

Also at the Anna Arts Center:

Kids Art Camp is a 5-day art camp that covers a wide range of traditional art skills, taught to your child by artist and teacher Jane Nimmo, actress and singer Hillary Hines, actor and director Pete Housman.

Activities are varied to include realistic drawing and painting skills, designing and making puppets, and how to perform in a one-act play. It is a week de- signed to inspire kids to reach beyond and create art that is unique to them. This week will help children explore art, developing a fun gift that will stay with them forever.


On Friday night, June 8, 6:30 p.m. the kids will host an exhibit of their work, do a show, and enjoy some refreshments.

The camp will start on Monday, June 4, through Fri- day, June 8, from 9 a.m.to 12, noon. All kids entering kindergarten through eighth grade are welcomed to participate in the camp. Call Lee at 618-833-6525 or email: vabchlee@gmail.com to register your child or to volunteer.


LEAA Art Exhibit: Historic Structures and
Machinery VI

When:  June 1 - July 15 Reception July 14

Where:  Little Egypt Arts Center, 601 Tower Square,
Marion

Description: “Historic Structures and Machinery VI”
is scheduled from June 1 - July 15, with a recep-
tion July 14 at 4 p.m.  All types of media will be on
display - the unifying theme is that each piece of art
will feature a historic building or machine. For more
information, visit www.littleegyptarts.com or call
(618) 998-8530.

At the June 14 meeting of ALPS, LEAA’s photogra- phy group, Bill Randall will present a program called “Historic Structures.”  The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and everyone is invited, regardless of photo- graphic ability.

Also, LEAA presents:

MISS MISSY’S AWESOME ACADEMY OF ART SUM- MER CLASS SCHEDULE

Young Artists’ Workshop Instructor- Missy Carstens
July 9-13

Class #1 Ages   4-7 2-3 P.M. Tuition  $35

Class #2 Ages  8-12 3:30-4:30 P.M. Tuition $35

Class #3 Ages 13 and up 5-7 P.M  Tuition $50

Studio Atelier with Missy Carstens Tuesdays, June
26, July 3, 17, 24, 31

2:30-4:00 P.M. Tuition $35/students 17 and un-
der or LEAA adult members, $50 adult nonmembers

All ages welcome. Adult students will work on proj-
 ects of their own choosing under Missy’s guidance.

Children will work on fun projects chosen by Missy that incorporate the basic principles and elements of art. This class will have a limited enrollment-contact Missy for availability.
SUPPLIES INCLUDED FOR ALL CLASSES IN TUITION FEE ALL CLASSES HELD AT THE ARTS CENTRE ON THE
DOWNTOWN SQUARE IN MARION

Questions, or to register, call Missy at 997-0421, or e-mail her at allencarstens@frontier.com



LEAFS (LEAA’s Fiber group)  will hold a new open Stu-
dio on Mondays 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. starting June 4.

It will be a mixed media workshop open to all mem- bers.

Members will be working with cloth, paper, metals, and all sorts of recycled materials.




SOUTHPASS BEADS OFFERS JUNE CLASSES

Following are classes offered at Southpass Beads, 203
Ash St., Cobden.  For more information or to register,
call LouAnn Elwell at (618) 893-6170 or visit the web-
site at www. southpassbeads.com.

Sat, June 1, 12-6 pm,  Open Studio
Sun, June 2, 1-4 pm,  Beg. Peyote Stitch
Fri, June 8, 1-4 pm,  Knitting Group
Sat, June 9,  Leather Wrap Bracelet
Sun, June 10, 1-4 pm,  Button Button Necklace
Fri, June 15, 1-4 pm,  Knitting Group
Sat, June 16 or June 23, 1-6 pm, Diva Peyote Stitch
Bracelet
Fri, June 22, 1-4 pm,  Knitting Group
Sat, June 23, 12-6 pm,  Open Studio
Fri, June 29, 1-4 pm,  Knitting Group
Sat, June 30, 1-4 pm,  Ribbon Necklace
Sun, July 1, 12-3 pm, F used Glass Pendants

Glass Beadmaking Instruction - may be scheduled on
an individual basis
Schedule a Beading Birthday Party or Girls Night Out!


anthill gallery presents: New Artist Exhibition Series

Necessary Art:  Mixed-Media by Rebecca Tram- mel and Wood Craft by Mike Nosovitsky - June 6 to August 4, 2012 at anthill gallery in the Village of Cobden, IL

anthill gallery, in Cobden, is pleased to introduce two Southern Illinois’ artists, Rebecca Trammel and Mike Nosovitsky, in a series of exhibitions designed to showcase new creative visual art and high quality craft.

Mike Nosovitsky specializes in one-of-a-kind slab lumber furniture and home accessories. His wood crafting philosophy is based on the beauty already existing in the wood. “It just needs to be enhanced,” says Mike.

Keeping the natural edging and sapwood enhanc- es contrast, grains, texture and colors. Natural curves add distinction and character and make his functional pieces of art appear soft, flowing and pleasant to see and inviting to touch.

All of the trees that Mike Nosovitsky uses in his wood craft are local species; black walnut, cherry, maple, poplar and oak, as well as some less com- mon species such as catalpa and mulberry.

Rebecca Trammel is a retired speech-language pathologist and former clinic director of the SIUC Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Her com- bined years of technical style and art technique used art as one way to reach children with com- munication disorders.

Now retired in Anna, Rebecca has found the time to focus on her development as an artist. Drawn to intense color and the shimmer of mica water- colors, Rebecca uses techniques learned from experimentation with mosaics, painting, pen and ink, drawing and calligraphy.

Exhibition hours at anthill gallery, 102 North Front Street, Cobden are Sunday and Wednesday, noon to 4 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, noon to 6 p.m.
and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Reception TBA.

In the Luna Gallery of Yellow Moon Cafe

Southern Illinois Wilderness Landscapes by pho- tographer Taylor Reed is at Luna Gallery in The Yellow Moon Cafe, in Cobden. Curated by anthill gallery, Taylor Reed's large metal-print photo- graphs will be exhibited from June 1 - July 31.

Much of his youth was spent hiking and camp- ing, giving Taylor Reed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty found here. From the vistas


2012 Regional Art Festivals

Following is a list of regional art and craft shows for 2012. This list is intended to be used as a planning guide only, and may not be complete. I’ll provide updated informa- tion in subsequent newsletters as it becomes available.  Please check websites or contact the event planners for further details.



Carbondale Community Friday Night Fair
When: Friday nights May through September
Where:  Carbondale at the corner of 51N and 13W
Visit www.carbondalemainstreet.com or call (618) 529-8040 for more information.

NEW   Shawnee Art and Wine Festival
When: Saturday, June 23
Where: Riverside Park, Murphysboro
For more information visit shawneefest.com , or call  (618) 684-6421.

Fourth Annual Town and Country Days Art Show
When:  August 25th – September 16th
Where:  Eldorado Memorial Library, Eldorado,
For more information, contact Janet Bixler by phone at (618) 273-9596 or by email at magic124@shawneelink.net.

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Fall Festival
When:  Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 1 and 2
Where:  Downtown Park, Cobden
For information visit www.shawneewinetrail.com


Cedarhurst Craft Fair
When:  Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8 and 9
Where:  Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Rd., Mt. Vernon
For information, visit http://www.cedarhurst.org or call (618) 242-1236

Murphysboro Apple Festival Arts & Crafts Fair
When:  Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 14-16
Where:  North 13th Street, Murphysboro
For more information, visit www.murphysboro.com or call (618) 684-3200

Illinois Wine and Arts Festival at Rend Lake
When:  Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 29 and 30
Where:  Southern Illinois Art and Artisan Center, Whittington
For more information visit www.museum.state.il.us  or contact Mary Lou Galloway at (618) 629-2220.

Fourth Annual Downtown Art and Wine Fair
When:  Saturday, Oct. 6
Where:  Carbondale downtown parking lot between Longbrand Coffee House and Tres Hombres
Visit www.carbondalemainstreet.com or call (618) 529-8040 for more information.


River to River Visual Art Association’s
“Art at the Edition”
When: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13 and 14
Where: The Edition at 315, 315 Christian Chapel Rd.  Anna
For more information,  call (618) 697-5563  or visit www.theedition315.com

Makanda Vulture Fest
When: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 20 and 21
Where: Downtown Makanda
For more information visit www.visitmakanda.com, or email Debbie Dunn at makandafestevents@gmail.com.


The 36th Annual Heritage Festival at Southeastern Illinois College
When:  Saturday and Sunday, November 3 and 4
Where:  Southeastern Illinois College, Harrisburg
For more information contact  Donna Hearn (618) 252-5400 ext. 3213 or email  donna.hearn@sic.edu

AutumnFest Art and Craft Show
When:  Saturday and Sunday, November 10 and 11
Where:  John A. Logan College, Carterville
For more information, visit www.jalc.edu or call (618) 985-3741.

SIUC Student Center 34th  Annual Holiday Craft Sale
When:  Thurs., Fri., Sat.  Nov.  29 - Dec 1
Where:  SIUC Student Center, Carbondale, IL
For more information, visit the Student Center website at www.siucstudentcenter.org or call (618) 453-3636 or (618) 453-5209







REGIONAL ART GALLERIES, BOUTIQUES, AND STUDIOS

Shopping locally for one-of-a-kind art is satisfying on so many levels.  Supporting local craftsmen, who in turn support other local businesses is good for the economy and the environment.

Following is a list of art galleries in southernmost Illinois that feature works by regional artists and craftsmen. (Please phone or check websites for updates):



Abraham Hunter Wildlife Gallery, 1308 Broadway, Goreville

Abraham Hunter opened his gallery in the spring of
2012. The gallery is filled with prints of his original
wildlife oil, watercolor,
and acrylic paintings of
waterfowl, southern Illi-
nois animals and fresh-
water game fish, as well
as rural landscapes.  For
more information, call
618-995-2006.



Angie’s Originals, 312 E. Fifth St., Metropolis

Angie Shelton is the owner of this charming week- end boutique which houses original art and crafts by southern Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri art- ists. Angie’s Originals features pottery by Craig Rhodes and Diane Bremer, alpaca products by Lisa Turner, jewelry by Jane Plain, oak baskets by Dar- rell Thurston and fiber art by Karen Linduska.  For
more information about Angie’s Originals or to view pictures of the latest inventory, visit the website at www.angiesoriginals.com.



Anna Arts Center, 117 W. Davie St., Anna

Anna Arts Center houses the works of Nancy Young,
Carol Dooley, Gail McIntosh, Dave O’Melia, and
Judy Trexler, among others. For more information,
call (618) 833-6525 or visit their website at www.
annaartscenter.com.

anthill gallery & vintage curiosities, 102 Front
St., Cobden

Owners Linda Austin and Bob Hagemann offer works by more than 60 re- gional artists, as well as selected vintage and gift items.  anthill gallery & vin-
tage curiosities coordinates its exhibitions with The
Yellow Moon Cafe’s Luna Gallery, located at 110
North Front Street, just a few doors north of the
anthill on Cobden’s historic elevated sidewalk. Luna
Gallery is open Tuesdays through Saturdays. For
more information, contact anthill gallery at (618)
303-3183 or visit www.anthillgallery.com.



Dayshift Boutique, 101 W. Monroe Ave, Carbon-
dale

Chris McKinley, owner of Dayshift, represents over fifty regional artists who produce a wide range of merchandise, including handbags, clothing, jew- elry, fine art, photography, blown glass, kitchen
and dining room decor, metalwork, ceramics, rugs, pet items, wine racks, greeting cards, and chil- dren’s accesso- ries. For more information, call (618) 529-DAYS (3297), email dayshiftshop@
gmail.com, or visit Facebook – Dayshift Carbondale.

Fern Fair Gallery,  8609 Giant City Road, Carbon-
dale

Fern Logan, a retired professor of photography, opened  a new facility in Southern Illinois to serve the artists of the region.  She offers space so artists can exhibit artwork or take a workshop. Fern Fair’s specialties are photography and graphic design, but will occasionally offer workshops in other media. For more information, visit www.fernfair.com or
call (618) 529-3376.

Gallery 624, 624 Pershing St. Herrin

Shawn Spooner owns and operates this gallery. Shawn uses her studio to educate individuals about the arts, and to display works by local artists as well as her photography, jewelry, and other hand-crafted art. For more information about Gallery 624, con- tact Shawn Spooner by phone (618) 694-4634 or by email at shawnspoonerphotography@gmail.com.



The Gallery Space at the Law Office of Joni Beth
Bailey, 1008 Walnut St., Murphysboro

The Gallery Space is an exhibition and reception venue for local artists, and has recently displayed
the works of Karen Linduska, Eric Johnson, Tom Bell, Bob Angarola, Mary Pachikara and Fraenze Reichard. For more information, visit Facebook-The Gallery Space at the Law Office of Joni Beth Bailey or call (618) 684-8668.



Grace Art Gallery & Girly Nature Gift Shop, 210 S. Broadway, Goreville

Rowena Montgomery and Tanya Eddleman own this delightful combination gallery/gift shop which houses the paintings, photography, and jewelry of local artists, as well as Girly Nature personal care products by Tanya.   For more information call (618)
694-5892, or visit www.girlynature.com.



Little Egypt Arts Association Gallery, Little Egypt Art
Centre, 601 Tower Square, Marion

LEAA’s membership produce and display a wide va- riety of art exhibits throughout the year. Upcoming exhibits for spring and summer include “Celebrating Southern Illinois Diversity,” “Life Threads,” “A Dif- ferent View” and “Historic Structures & Machinery VI.” For more information, visit www.littleegyptarts. comor call (618) 998-8530.

Longbranch Coffeehouse  100 East Jackson,
Carbondale

The “Back Room” at this popular eatery in Carbon- dale serves as a venue for both performing and visual arts.  Local visual artists display their work here and poets, musicians and speakers grace the stage.  For more information visit lbchouse.com or

call (618) 529-4488.

Makanda Boardwalk, Downtown Makanda

Often referred to as the “Valley of the Arts”, the restored Makanda Boardwalk is home to Visions Gallery, Rainmaker Studio, The Makanda Trading Company , the Smelly Hippie, and the Makanda
Country Store. Allan Stuck Studio is nearby. For more information, visit www.visitmakanda.com or email Debbie Dunn at makandafestevents@gmail.com.

Southpass Beads, 203 Ash Street, Cobden, IL

Southpass Beads offers a wide variety of beads, findings, tools and bead making supplies as well as bead-making classes. Beadmaker J-Bird Elwell and beadweaver and designer LouAnn Elwell
create handmade beads and jewelry for sale at their location. For more information, call (618) 893-6170 or visit www.southpassbeads.com.

Village Art & Gifts, 100 N. Front St., Cobden, IL

Owners Rick and Joan Ball feature local art works, an- tiques and collectibles, gifts, and plants in their shop. Dozens of local art-
ists have their work displayed, including Sandra Warhurst, Beverly Lueking,
Jan York, Abraham Hunter, Jeff Engbring, Roberta Elliot and
Eldon Benz .  For more information contact Rick Ball at
(618) 893-4439.




If you would like to post information about an upcoming art show, exhibit, or class in a future newsletter, send an email to sharonwittke@yahoo. com by the 18th of the month. There are no fees associated with the RRVAA newsletter.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

River to River Visual Arts Association Newsletter for March-April 2012

River to River
Visual Arts Association
March - April  2012

The art scene in southern Illinois can be summed up in six words - “So much art, so little time.”
Southern Illinois is truly a culturally rich area.  In addition to the many art venues located in the region, there are interesting public lectures, historical exhibits, and educational outdoor activities taking place every week.   Here’s hoping you find time to enjoy it all.

SOUTHPASS BEADS - A COTTAGE INDUSTRY IN COBDEN
Husband and wife team J-Bird and LouAnn Elwell opened a bead business nearly two years ago at their Cobden residence, and share equally in the day-to-day operations of the cottage industry they’ve created.
J-Bird said he is the primary beadmaker and LouAnn is the beadweaver.  He said LouAnn took a glass bead class at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she is an employee at the School of Art and Design, in 2001 and became hooked on beads.
He said he also learned how to create beads, and has mastered a number of styles while working in the back-room studio of their shop at 203 E. Ash St., Cobden.
He orders many colors of Italian glass rods for his beads, J-Bird said, and he uses other eclectic materials as well, such as bottle caps, electric motor parts and circles cut from circuit boards for fashioning beads in a style he called “steam-punk.”
To demonstrate the skills required of a bead-maker, J-Bird heated  a small piece of glass using an acetylene torch, then wound the molten galss around a thin steel rod called a mandrel.
With deliberate movement, he twirled the mandrel over the open flame, and with his other hand dabbed some bits of colored glass onto the molten mass of glass.  The colored bits melted and blended into the bead, giving it a swirled effect.
“The secret is to let it sag equally all the way around,” J-Bird said.
He said depending on the complexity of the bead, he can produce between 10 and 15  beads a day. 
“Cleaning the beads is my least favorite part,” he said.
In the front room of the shop, LouAnn was assisting several customers in making their selections from the many pieces of beaded jewelry on display.
LouAnn said she designs the jewelry from the beads her husband makes. She also teaches classes on beadweaving and hosts guests beading instructors at the shop.
Two classes are being offered in March:
On March 15 from noon - 4 p.m. students can learn to make a pendant from Czech glass leaves and craft wire. Pendant can be used for necklace in bead stringing class. Also taught will be the basics of beading. Instructional information will include learning to choose the proper stringing materials and tools for your projects. Practical information includes layout and design ideas. crimping  along with the use of crimp covers.
On March 17,  from noon - 5 p.m. instructor Vickie Muich will teach the basics of right angle weave - one of the work horse stitches. After learning the basics, students can make a bracelet from 8/0 seed beads. Students may bring their own beads & beadweaving supplies, if desired, or choose from the wide selection in the shop.
For more information about the classes, or about learning to make beads and creating jewelry, or if you’re just interested in seeing the large selection of beaded jewelry at the shop, visit the website at www.southpassbeads.com., call (618) 893-6170 or send an email to louann.elwell@gmail.com.

Tornado Relief Fundraiser Features Local Musicians and Artists

“Gone With the Wind Tornado Relief Fundraiser” is being planned by Ray Hogan, owner of The Old Feed Store in Cobden, and others.  In addition to a weekend-long local music event, an art auction is planned.  Here is a listing of some of the events:

     Sat.  March 17, 8 p.m. at the Yellow Moon Cafe, 110 N. Front St.,  Cobden
     Howlin For Harrisburg Open Mic Nite

     Sun. March 18, 1:30 - 7 p.m. at The Old Feed Store, 111 N. Appleknocker, Cobden
     Musicians scheduled to appear are: The Free Range Chicks. The Feed Store Four, Big Mike Michael A. Aguirre
     Gary Gordon with Katie Davis,Wil Maring and Cold Pizza with Ben Fusion
     Awesome Catered Eats by Jamie Boaz of Jamie’s One Man Stand

Carbondale venues for the fundraiser include the Longbranch Cafe and Varsity Center for the Arts - check their websites or Facebook pages for details.

Silent and Live auction items will be available at all events.  For more information, visit Facebook - The Old Feed Store.

March & April Events

LEAA Art Exhibit:  Celebrating Southern
Illinois Diversity
When:  Feb. 13 – March 31
Where:  Little Egypt Art Centre, 601 Tower Square, Marion
Description:  Different cultures and occupations of people who call southern Illinois home are the themes of this multi-media art exhibit.  For more information, visit www.littleegyptarts.com or call (618) 998-8530.

Wineries Celebrate Vintage Art Month
When: Entire month of March
Where: Wineries Along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Description:  The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail will celebrate Vintage Arts Month in March with each of the trail’s wineries showcasing local artists and hosting other special events.  Artists’ works using media such as pen, painting, metal, wood and glass will be displayed. http://lbchouse.com For more information visit www.shawneewinetrail.com.

Classes offered at the Anna Arts Center
When: Various times during March
Where:  Anna Arts Center , 125 W. Davie St. Anna
Description: Classes in whittling, genealogy, mural painting, flower arranging and jewelry making are offered this month at the Anna Arts Center. For schedule of classes and for more information, call (618) 833-6525 or email vabchlee@gmail.com.

LEAA Art Exhibit:  Life Threads Fiber Show
When:  April 1 - 30
Where:  Little Egypt Arts Center, 601 Tower Square, Marion
Description:  The theme of this art exhibit is “Quilts, weavings, and the thread or yarn the binds us together.”  The works of regional fiber artists will be on display during this month-long exhibit.  For more information, visit www.littleegyptarts.com or call (618) 998-8530.
Joshua Burton Art Exhibit Opens April 13 at Longbranch Coffee House
When: Opens April 13
Where:  Longbranch Coffee House, 100 E. Jackson St., Carbondale
Description: Joshua Burton, a visual artist from Makanda, will hold his first official solo show at the Longbranch Coffee House.  His art encompasses elements of the natural beauty of southern Illinois and reflects hislife and philosophies.For more information contact Burton at cheesekid1979@yahoo.com or call the Long Branch Coffee House at (618) 529-4488.

Locally Grown Music & Craft Festival
When:  Sunday, April 15
Where:  Rustle Hill Winery, Hwy. 51, Cobden
Description:  Locally Grown Music & Craft Festival is an event featuring local musicians and artists to raise money for Carbondale New School, a not-for-profit private school for grades pre-K through 8.  Three musical acts will perform on the grounds of Rustle Hill Winery, and food and drink will be served.  There will be activities such as mini-golf, an obstacle course and face-painting for children.  For more information, visit www.rustlehillwinery.com.

Anna Arts Center Spring Arts Festival
When:  April 27-29
Where:  Anna Arts Center, 125 W. Davie St. Anna
Description:  The spring festival will feature the works of southern Illinois artists and art students in the 2012 judged art exhibit.  This year’s exhibit will feature three catefories of art:  painting and drawings, photography, and fine crafts.  The latter category includes fibers, scultpure, pottery, furniture, stained glass, blown glass, jewelry and metalsmithing. 
All artists are welcome to enter their work in the exhibition.  Pre-registration must be received at the Anna Arts Center no later than April 11.
Various cash prizes will be awarded, including the best of who, and first, second and third place.  There will also be a people’s choice award.
A meet-the-artist reception and awards ceremony will be held at the Art Center on Sunday, April 29 from 2 - 5 p.m.
For more information or to receive an entry form, call (618) 833-6525 or email vabchlee@gmail.com.

2012 Regional Art Shows
Following is a list of regional art and craft shows for 2012.  This list is intended to be used as a planning guide only, and may not be complete.  I’ll provide updated information in subsequent newsletters as it becomes available.  Please check websites or contact the event planners for further details.

Carbondale Community Friday Night Fair
When: Friday nights May through September
Where:  Carbondale at the corner of 51N and 13W
For more information visit the website at www.carbondalemainstreet.com or call (618) 529-8040

Makanda Spring Fest
When: Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6  
Where: Downtown Makanda
For more information visit the website at
www.villageofmakanda.com/events.html or email Janelle Weber at makandainn@gmail.com.

Fourth Annual Downtown Art and Wine Fair
When: Saturday, May 19 
Where: Carbondale downtown parking lot between Longbranch Coffee House and Tres Hombres
For more information, visit the website at www.carbondalemainstreet.com or call (618) 529-8040

HerrinFesta Italiana 2012 Art Exhibition
When: Thursday – Monday, May 24 - 28
Where: HerrinFesta Italiana Art gallery, 3 South Park Avenue, Herrin
For more information visit www.herrinfesta.com , or call Little Egypt Arts Association (618) 998-8530

Fourth Annual Town and Country Days Art Show
When:  August 25th – September 16th
Where:  Eldorado Memorial Library, Eldorado, IL
For more information, contact Janet Bixler by phone at (618) 273-9596 or by email at magic124@shawneelink.net.

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Fall Festival
When:  Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 1 and 2  
Where:  Downtown Park, Cobden
For information visit www.shawneewinetrail.com

Cedarhurst Craft Fair
When:  Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8 and 9
Where:  Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Rd., Mt. Vernon
For information, visit http://www.cedarhurst.org or call (618) 242-1236
Murphysboro Apple Festival Arts & Crafts Fair
When:  Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 14-16
Where:  North 13th Street, Murphysboro
For more information, visit www.murphysboro.com or call (618) 684-3200

Illinois Wine and Arts Festival at Rend Lake
When:  Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 22 and 23
Where:  Southern Illinois Art and Artisan Center, Whittington
For more information visit www.museum.state.il.us  or contact Mary Lou Galloway at (618) 629-2220.

River to River Visual Art Association’s
 “Art at the Edition”
When: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13 and 14
Where: The Edition at 315, 315 Christian Chapel Rd.
Anna
For more information,  call (618) 697-5563  or visit www.theedition315.com

Makanda Vulture Fest
When: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 20 and 21  
Where: Downtown Makanda
For more information visit www.villageofmakanda.com/events.html, or email Janelle Weber
at makandainn@gmail.com.

The 36th Annual Heritage Festival at Southeastern Illinois College
When:  Saturday and Sunday, November 3 and 4
Where:  Southeastern Illinois College, Harrisburg
For more information contact  Donna Hearn (618) 252-5400 ext. 3213 or email  donna.hearn@sic.edu

AutumnFest Art and Craft Show
When:  Saturday and Sunday, November 10 and 11
Where:  John A. Logan College, Carterville
For more information, visit www.jalc.edu or call (618) 985-3741.

SIUC Student Center 34th  Annual Holiday Craft Sale
When:  Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6 - 8
Where:  SIUC Student Center, Carbondale, IL
For more information, visit the Student Center website at www.siucstudentcenter.org or call (618) 453-3636 or (618) 453-5209 

HeartlandArts.Net

The HeartlandArts.Net calendar is available for you to post your art events.  Email heartlandartsnet@gmail.com and Amy McMorrow Hunter will add you to the calendar so you can add all your art events quickly and easily.  More events on the calendar means more interest and visits to the region.
REGIONAL ART GALLERIES,
BOUTIQUES, AND STUDIOS
Shopping locally for one-of-a-kind art is satisfying on so many levels.  Supporting local craftsmen, who in turn support other local businesses is good for the economy and the environment.
Following is a list of art galleries in southernmost Illinois that feature works by regional artists and craftsmen. (Please phone or check websites for updates):

Angie’s Originals, 312 E. Fifth St., Metropolis
Angie Shelton is the owner of this charming weekend boutique which houses original art and crafts by southern Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri artists.  Angie’s Originals features pottery by Craig Rhodes and Diane Bremer, alpaca products by Lisa Turner, jewelry by Jane Plain, oak baskets by Darrell Thurston and fiber art by Karen Linduska.   For more information about Angie’s Originals or to view pictures of the latest inventory, visit the website at         www.angiesoriginals.com.

Anna Arts Center, 117 W. Davie St., Anna
Anna Arts Center houses the works of Nancy Young, Carol Dooley, Gail McIntosh, Dave O’Melia, and Judy Trexler, among others.  For more information, contact Joanne Blakley at (618) 697-6285, or visit their website at www.annaartscenter.com.

anthill gallery & vintage curiosities, 102 Front St., Cobden
Owners Linda Austin and Bob Hagemann offer works by more than 60 regional artists, as well as selected vintage and gift items.   anthill gallery & vintage curiosities coordinates its exhibitions with The Yellow Moon Cafe’s Luna Gallery, located at 110 North Front Street, just a few doors north of the anthill on Cobden’s historic elevated sidewalk. Luna Gallery is open Tuesdays through Saturdays. In mid-March the works of ceremacist Darby Ortolano and painter Judith Bush will be featured in an exhibit.  For more information, contact anthill gallery at (618) 303-3183 or visit www.anthillgallery.com.
Dayshift Boutique, 101 W. Monroe Ave, Carbondale
Chris McKinley, owner of Dayshift, represents over fifty regional artists who produce a wide range of merchandise, including handbags, clothing, jewelry, fine art, photography, blown glass, kitchen and dining room decor, metalwork, ceramics, rugs, pet items, wine racks, greeting cards, and children’s accessories.  For more information, call (618) 529-DAYS (3297), email dayshiftshop@gmail.com, or visit Facebook – Dayshift Carbondale.

Fern Fair Gallery,  8609 Giant City Road, Carbondale
Fern Logan, a retired professor of photography, opened  a new facility in Southern Illinois to serve the artists of the region.  She offers space so artists can exhibit artwork or take a workshop.  Fern Fair’s specialties are photography and graphic design, but will occasionally offer workshops in other media.  For more information, visit  www.fernfair.com or call (618) 529-3376.

Gallery 624,  624 Pershing St. Herrin
Shawn Spooner owns and operates this gallery.  Shawn uses her studio to educate individuals about the arts, and to display works by local artists as well as her photography, jewelry, and other hand-crafted art.  For more information about Gallery 624, contact Shawn Spooner by phone (618) 694-4634 or by email at shawnspoonerphotography@gmail.com.
The Gallery Space at the Law Office of Joni Beth
Bailey, 1008 Walnut St., Murphysboro
The Gallery Space is an exhibition and reception venue for local artists, and has recently displayed the works of Karen Linduska, Eric Johnson, Tom Bell, Bob Angarola, Mary Pachikara and Fraenze Reichard.  For more information, visit Facebook-The Gallery Space at the Law Office of Joni Beth Bailey or call (618) 684-8668.

Grace Art Gallery & Girly Nature Gift Shop, 210 S. Broadway, Goreville
Rowena Montgomery and Tanya Eddleman own this delightful combination gallery/gift shop which houses the paintings, photography, and jewelry of local artists, as well as Girly Nature personal care products by Tanya.   For more information call (618) 694-5892, or visit www.girlynature.com.

Little Egypt Arts Association Gallery, Little Egypt Art Centre, 601 Tower Square, Marion
LEAA’s membership produce and display a wide variety of art exhibits throughout the year.  Upcoming exhibits for spring and summer include “Celebrating Southern Illinois Diversity,” “Life Threads,” “A Different View” and “Historic Structures & Machinery VI.” For more information, visit  www.littleegyptarts.com or call (618) 998-8530.

Makanda Boardwalk, Downtown Makanda
Often referred to as the “Valley of the Arts”, the restored Makanda Boardwalk is home to Visions Gallery, Rainmaker Studio, The Makanda Trading Company , the Smelly Hippie, and the Makanda Country Store.  Allan Stuck Studio is nearby. For more information, visit www.villageofmakanda.com or email Janelle Weber at makandainn@gmail.com.

Southpass Beads, 203 Ash Street, Cobden, IL  
Southpass Beads offers a wide variety of beads, findings, tools and bead making supplies as well as bead-making classes.  Beadmaker J-Bird Elwell and beadweaver and designer LouAnn Elwell create handmade beads and jewelry for sale at their location.  For more information, call (618) 893-6170 or visit www.southpassbeads.com.






Village Art & Gifts, 100 N. Front St., Cobden, IL  
Owners Rick and Joan Ball opened their business in Cobden  in October 2011.  The shop features local art works, antiques and collectibles, gifts, and plants.  Dozens of local artists have their work displayed, including Sandra Warhurst, Beverly Lueking,  Jan York, Abraham Hunter, Jeff Engbring, Roberta Elliot and Eldon Benz .  For more information contact Rick Ball at (618) 893-4439.

River to River Visual Arts Association was incorporated in December 2011 as a not-for-profit organization with the mission of promoting the work of artists living in southernmost Illinois and advocating for their cultural and economic value to the region.  One of RRVAA’s goals is to collect, compile, disseminate and archive information about the area’s rich and varied visual art.

If you would like to post information about an upcoming art show, exhibit, or class in a future newsletter, send an email to sharonwittke@yahoo.com by the 18th of the month.  There are no fees associated with the RRVAA newsletter.

 If you prefer not to receive this newsletter, please let me know, and I’ll remove your name from the email list.  Please feel free to pass this newsletter along to others who may be interested in the arts and art related activities in southernmost Illinois.
Information in this newsletter can also be found on the RRVAA blog at r2rvaa@blogspot.com.