Compass&Hatchet

New beginings

2012-03-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

OK so, I've not really been doing much blogging about art, which was what I was meaning to do. But such is life.

I am currently going through a break up, with my what was 5 year relationship, and so I will be moving.
So that is inspiring in a way. Sad, but aren't fresh starts somewhat refreshing? I have found a new home for Myself, Uka and Neon. Across the island from the bay that I love. But on to a new bay. and across from a Dahlia stand... so that's promising right?

I will be updating with decorating over the next few weeks, and hopefully new Art by the end of the month. That's something about heart ache, it breeds and necessitates creativity. Got to look on the bright side.

So here is to new beginnings...

I declare today SICK DAY.

2012-02-20T16:49:00.000-08:00

AHH it actually feels really nice to just lounge around at home. Its usually really hard for me to do this with out feeling immense guilt about how I should be doing "something". What is this something, anyways, always nagging. Is relaxing not something? I really do love to be in my home. I would consider myself very much a home body.
I love the little details you find in people's homes that reflect how they are lived in, and who the person is of course. It has been a hard adjustment living with someone, and not having control over my surroundings. But the fact is that homes are meant to be lived in. Which mean dirty dishes and unmade beds will happen. And so will sick days.

Ready, Set, School...

2012-02-11T14:58:00.000-08:00

Ok gang, its time I go back. With a close to 10 year hiatus from schooling, I have finally decided what it is that I want to dedicate time, energy and funding to,... can you take a wild guess? Art. Well yeah, it's not that surprising, But it IS exciting. I'll fill you in with the details later, or you can come on down to The Artworks Coffee bar and tip me for making you a coffee to drink while I tell you all about it...

Plates.

2012-02-11T14:42:00.000-08:00

I did these plates a while ago, but I thought I would post about them because... they are something that I have done... and would love to do more of. I am not sure what it is about dishes ( mugs in particular ) but I just love to collect them. Being able to customize them is even more fun, and would not have been made possible if not for Mariko McCrae Of Feed Lot Studios ( and her husband Bryan, the ever willing computer wiz! ) Ceramics is seriously one of my new favorite things.

These plates were me playing with Diamonds and the such. It had been along time since I drew anything, so they kind of took a life of their own.

www.feedlotstudios.ca

Slow start to 2012 and day dreaming of Ruxton.

2012-01-28T15:52:00.000-08:00

Its already the end of the January and I do not have a lot to show for this month so far. It's been weathery, and cold. My Manfriend's and I celebrated our birthdays with a Sushi gathering, that some how turned itself from small and intimate to filling my home to its seams with people and pups. I've been on a lot of dog walks and watched the first season of Dexter and tried to get myself into a good exercise routine. I started running and went back to the gym. I read "the Help".. So yeah ok, I have been up to things this month.

A few of my friends flew the coop to warmer climates, and will be returning soon. Whenever I am missing my buddies I feel homesick for Ruxton. About 5 years ago for Hayden's bachelorette party, we planned a get away to nearby Ruxton Island and the beautiful cabin owned by a lovely couple here on Gabriola. That weekend was full of Tequila, Costumes, Speeches, Night-time-wanderings, An invitation into a local's home, Suspicious intoxicated swimming and a Declaration of a cheese intolerance. It was perfect. And it has since become a tradition.

There are actually TOO many good photos from over the years, I could never be finished if I added all my favorites..

AW I Love you ladies.

LONG LIVE RUXTON!

OK new year, lets get it on....

2012-01-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

Having a home day today. Making dog cookies and enjoying the observation of light as it makes its way around my house, peeks in each window and is now setting over the Sheep farm. Not to get all poetical on yall, but isn't nature splendid?

The first of nature's show this morning was of course this amazing sunrise, followed by clear blue skies...
what a day folks, what a day...

What am I talking about? who knows...

Happy New Years, resolutions and what not..

2011-12-31T14:35:00.000-08:00

So I guess tonight's festivities is the last in the list of holiday happenings. Usually the end of the year I am all into organizing my life and getting ready to start January off anew. But I am feeling ILL today, so I am keeping it simple, and saving my Life-Make-Over for another day. SO what am I into right now? Planning an outfit for tonight. Here are some images I am inspired by.

Who knows what I will end up wearing.

sniffle, sniffle, I just hope I make it to midnight,

HAPPY NEW YEARS YALL!

Even Cow Girls Get the Blues

2011-12-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Last night I watched Even Cow Girls Get the Blues for the first time, and while the book blew the movie outta the water (as is usually the case. ) the film really has some great visuals... the outfits, the landscapes, Uma ... so today? not only do I want to be a cowgirl, but I am remembering the drive down the Baja when I was reading the book, the hot, dry, dustyness, the cactus and cattle and I am feeling inspired... to do what... not sure... but don't be surprised if you'll be spotting influences from Tom Robbins novels in my art this coming year.

We travel many km to the new homelands of Timshel.

2011-12-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

Timshel is one of my favorite people... ever. She has made a new home for her self in a land far away, well actually not that far, its about 385 km, and two ferries, but it sure feels like a long long way when you miss someone. The excuse for the trip was a party in honor of new building, ( a music room/shop- built right next to the river with handmade beams..... I don't speak buildings specifics or carpentry ... sorry.. but you get the idea right?? ) but mostly it was for us to see Tim's new home through her eyes. To understand why she is up there, and not here, with us, where we wish she would be... It is easy to understand why an adventurer and competent person like Timshel would love to live in the setting she has found herself. Not to mention the awe inspiring beauty of the wide open NATURE ( Goulet! ) that sets the perfect stage for her photography. And while my heart belongs next to the sea, I can understand why she is there. And it really is beautiful. We went on some walks, ( vertical incline or should I say NATURAL RISE. ) drank coffee, and basically just kicked it with the dogs ( and an alcoholic cat...). It wasn't EXACTLY what I call a relaxing trip, but anytime I am fortunate enough to get a large clump of my closest people with in arms reach I am truly happy. So here is to Timshel, for being her self, and finding a place in the world that makes sense to her.

Veronica Turns 29 and Shows us all a thing or two about Classy Home stylings.

2011-12-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

My friend Veronica is a talented lady in many ways, but especially shines in her skill for creating lovely spaces. Just recently she moved from a floating home- so close I could swim to it, and into a land locked structure. With her extensive collection of chairs ( in all varying states of reupholster ) and eye for colour, plus many bits of collected goodies, she has made a home of her rented house.. BOOM. ( as she would say.) Her recent discovery of old family slides and a projector were the highlight of her comfy new living room ( for me anyways.) and I ESPECIALLY love this slide of her mother , and getting to steal a shot of veronica admiring her was one of my favourite parts of the day.

Happy birthday Veronica.
You are amazing

post booty, and puppy love...

2011-12-07T15:03:00.000-08:00

Week 2 of Uka. Seriously the cutest thing ever. But headstrong as a little moose. Since crafted booty I've been working ( I do admit slowly) on some commissions, but its hard to tear myself away from the four legged buddy I've newly acquired. Crafted Booty was HUGE success. So much fun and talent. I think that all who attended were left with monster feelings of inspiration. Its so nice to see another side of art and craft on our island. For those who missed it, I have a feeling that a similar style boutique will be erected just in time to find something for your baby-cakes on valentines day. Stay tuned....

Joetta Maue

2011-11-23T08:56:00.000-08:00

...is my new favourite thing.

http://www.joettamaue.com

Little Hatchets.

2011-11-22T21:42:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Christmas, Little ceramic hatchets and Feather ornaments. Check them ( and a plethora of other tempting little doozies) out at CRAFTED BOOTY, happening this weekend!!! fun times kids, fun times.

http://www.etsy.com/people/CompassandHatchet?ref=si_pr

The countdown is on.

2011-11-19T20:48:00.000-08:00

With only 3 days off left to finish up that I've got going on for Crafted Booty, I am going into an art-hibernation. I've decided to cross the lines of medium, and display some bits of paper, some ceramics and some textiles as well. fun? yes...

Crafted Booty

2011-11-17T13:15:00.000-08:00

So we are having an art and craft show over here on our little island and it's going to be FABULOUS! SO many talented individuals, set up in a boutique setting, all handmade and all local. And if thats not reason enough there will also be Bangs for Bucks! ( tis the season for freshly cut bangs) MUSIC, a Santa to sit upon, and a flock of wiener dogs! You wont want to miss this chance to find your loved ones the most perfect gift, or to treat your self to a little something, something ( cause you deserve it.... ) More than a fantastic display of unique creations, it WILL be the place to be seen on Gabriola.

The following are some examples of the wares .....

HOPE to see you all there

Credits: upholstery by Veronica Holroyd, Ceramics and jewelery by Kate Wood, Jewelery by Nina Turczyn, Ceramics by Mariko Mccrae, Sewn creations by Christine Bletcher.

... in the begining.

2011-11-16T14:13:00.000-08:00

My name is Stephanie, and Art is my favourite thing. ever. I am incredibly lucky to have been raised in an environment so encouraging and inspiring to artists and creative pursuits. I am surrounded by amazing talent, and open and welcoming people. I enjoy painting, sewing, ceramics and drawing. When I am not curled up in my little home by the sea, I can usually be found gallivanting around with my posse of amazing ( and beautiful ) friends. This is my way of sharing and showcasing the many things that inspire and move me.. I encourage any and all feedback as I keep updating this space all winter long.

enjoy- Stephanie.