Gemini Moon Mosaics

Kitschy Christmas Pixies Strike a Pose

2011-12-04T18:16:00.004-05:00

I spent the afternoon making some treasuries on Etsy yesterday. This one is my favorite so far! Kitschy Christmas Pixies!! Won't you click & show it some love?

Start Your Holiday Shopping!

2011-11-27T16:29:00.001-05:00

**Make this holiday a handmade holiday!** Receive 15% off your entire purchase in my Etsy shop from November 24th-30th. Just enter the code HANDMADEHOLIDAY2011 during checkout. Yay!

Magnet Mania!

2011-11-13T19:20:00.002-05:00

Fantastic new magnets are here! Just in time for holiday gift giving.

Pictured above are Vintage Flower Power Magnets. Adorable, bright & fun, and the magnet is strong too.

I have also listed some brand new Inspirational Collage Art Magnets. Messages to lift you up, and colors to make you smile.

Head on over to my Etsy shop to check out these new pieces & many other new things as well.

Mosaic Shrines

2011-09-28T22:03:00.003-04:00

Introducing one of my summer projects ~ Mosaic shrines. Lovingly and carefully crafted in handmade tin nichos straight from Mexico.

These little creations started as a daydream floating through my head one day while sitting at my desk at my 9 to 5. I was inspired enough to grab paper from my printer and sketch out some ideas. It took me a while to find the perfect pieces to bring it all to life, but I did, and I am thrilled with the way they turned out.

Be on the lookout for more mosaic shrines headed to my Etsy shop soon!

I'm Baaaack!!!!!!

2011-06-19T20:59:00.003-04:00

After a much needed break, and a busy time at my day job, I am finally back on track and creating again. My etsy shop has been closed since the beginning of June. I should be putting up some brand new listings soon. Also, I will be offering my larger mirrors & artwork via my new website.

Come and see more of what I have been up to on my fan page over on Facebook.

Introducing.....

2011-03-30T20:11:00.006-04:00

My brand new website!!! http://www.GeminiMoonMosaics.com Check it out, and let me know what you think!

A Visit

2011-02-12T17:50:00.008-05:00

While going through my many folders of pictures I came across this one I had taken. I forgot all about the close encounter I had with this yellow dragonfly on a very hot day in July. It literally stuck around for a good 10 minutes, going in and out of my shot as I set up my art to snap pictures. Now the only way I was ever going to get a good look at an insect was through my camera. I zoomed in and saw the intricate detail of its wings, the beautiful yellow ochre color and its dainty body. I normally don’t stick around when something lands near me. In fact, I usually run like a jack ass and end up knocking things over…. but this time was different. I remained steady, held my camera and clicked.

After taking the shot, it lifted off, fluttered around for a second then took off across the yard. It did not come back after that. Not sure what exactly that visit was supposed to mean, or who may have been trying to get my attention. I can say that it was a moment of clarity, a sort of stillness. There was joy in stopping and getting a look at something I most likely would have never gotten. That is enough for me.

Lemon Lime Sublime

2011-02-11T22:46:00.002-05:00

Lemon Lime Sublime
Originally uploaded by GeminiMoonMosaics

Finally! New work is here! Head on over to my Etsy shop and see what's new.

I promise I am back.... and I won't be a stranger.

Peace, Love & Tile,
Jeanine

Weekend Specials!

2010-11-12T19:47:00.005-05:00

Good until Sunday night at midnight! All Mixed media/collages in my Etsy shop will be 20% off and all mini-mosaic mirrors will be 10% off! Follow this link to view and shop the sale. Discounted price is the price shown in the listing.

Why not give some hand made gifts this year?

A Fall Day in CT

2010-10-10T20:49:00.002-04:00

It was the perfect weekend to grab my camera and head out to the state park. The leaves are not even at their peak yet, but they are still amazing.

This was taken only a few minutes from where I live. It is funny how much you can take the beautiful surroundings right outside your door for granted sometimes.

I love New England in the fall.

Hi!

2010-09-28T19:25:00.003-04:00

It has been a long time since my last blog. As usual per the life of an artist with a full time day job, time has not been on my side. It seems like the free time I have is spent more on chores around the house, running errands and just trying to keep up. The fact that I am not creating much these days is catching up with me. All I want to do is call out sick at my 9-5, go to my studio space and lock the door behind me.

The spare moments I am able to grab has been spent in a few places. One being my vintage shop on Etsy, Groovy PoP Shop. It has been going well so far, and I hope to really get things going in there this January when my day job slows down a bit.

My other favorite place online is my Tumblr blog on http://www.tumblr.com. It is called Over the Gemini Moon and features a combination of my art, favorite things, retro stuff and even my photography. I love Tumblr!! Go check it out.

On the mosaics & mixed media side of things, I have been listing the occasional new work here and there. The photo up above on this post is of a new magnet now available. I actually have a bunch of new magnets, art cards and other goodies that I hope to have available in time for holiday shopping.

You can always catch my latest updates on Facebook too. Stop by and say hello!

Must Haves! Natural Skin Care & Make Up

2010-08-06T19:03:00.007-04:00

Recently I began the process of replacing all of my skin care, soaps & makeup with all natural, chemical free and handmade products. Not only because I began reading about the hazardous chemicals and long list of ingredients that you can't pronounce, but now that I am way out of my twenties, many of the commercial cosmetics and products I have used in the past now cause me problems. Breakouts, irritation and just an overall yucky feeling on my skin.

Of course Etsy was the place I ran to when I was ready to shop! I'd like to share my absolute favorite sellers and the items that I vow to never run out of or be without. Here are my picks!!

EllaRoseMinerals.etsy.com
You can see the adorable 7 piece started kit I ordered in the first picture above. This makeup is amazing. The foundation is light, covers well and feels great. I *love* the eye shadow and eyeliner. The colors are so pretty, you don't need to use a ton for it to show up and it stays on all day. The eye liner does not smudge. I just use a tiny bit of water on the brush to apply it and it also stays all day. And all of it registers as 0 on the Comedogenicity scale. My skin even looks better from it. Her sample sizes are generous too, so give her products a try.

rainwaterbotanicals.etsy.com
My skin is looking better than ever since using a combination of things from rainwaterbotanicals. Their healing earth facial soap, skin repair serum and natural spot treatment. No more uneven skin tone or blotches, and no breakouts either. My skin is also smoother. I am thrilled!!

Goddessnaturals.etsy.com
Oh how I love the natural, unrefined shea butters from Goddessnaturals!! And with so many wonderful blends it is hard to choose a favorite. It is absolutely the best moisturizer I have ever used. Hands, feet, elbows, knees and even face... it just works! Smells amazing too. Try the lavender at night to relax, the peppermint to energize and the tea tree oil rocks too. I have also used their lemongrass and henna soap. It is also amazing!

So if you need a place to start when choosing natural bath & body products, you can not go wrong with these three sellers.

In CT?

2010-07-26T22:34:00.003-04:00

I'll be vending at the 6th Annual Arts & Wellness Festival this Saturday. It is going to be an excellent event!

Summer in Newport, RI

2010-07-16T21:40:00.005-04:00

Some sights from our recent trip to Newport, RI. All 3 shots were taken on Bellvue Ave. Can't wait to go back! I heart Newport.

Letting it Go

2010-07-12T15:25:00.006-04:00

It is always a thrill to see an email from the Etsy Transactions Fairy. Another piece sold, another little boost of confidence knowing that someone out there was drawn to my art. But somewhere in the bliss of packing up an order and sending it out to its new home is that tiny little bit of sadness. Especially when the work has been with you for a long time and has an emotional tie to it.

The piece pictured above called Grandma's Kitchen is one of those emotional creations. While many of the vintage plates I use are ones I can remember from my childhood, the plates in that particular mosaic are the exact pattern my Grandparent's had many years ago. I am sure at one time or another I blogged about those plates. I even told a little of the background of the piece in the item description.

In just about every picture taken of my messy desk and studio you can see that very piece hanging on the wall. It was never in a storage bin tied up in bubble wrap, but always visible above my desk. A reminder of Grandma and Grandpa's kitchen, and a little retro inspiration for the new creations that are still waiting to surface from the piles of tile, gems and bins of supplies.

I send this package off with a smile.

♥ Plate Love ♥

2010-06-17T16:56:00.002-04:00

It has been a long time since I shared some plate love. This is Blue Heaven by Royal China. I never get tired of this pattern!

Part 2 of my 3 Part Series ~ Consignment

2010-05-26T19:44:00.010-04:00

Several weeks ago I began a series of blogs about galleries, consignments and craft showsand my advice and personal experience in each of these areas. In my 12 years as a working artist I have been subjected to some pretty miserable situations, and some super exciting and rewarding situations. Let's begin part 2 now, consignment.

Consignment

This is where things can get complicated. Opportunities present themselves in this category more often than galleries and I have found they are always hit or miss. I'd like to start by talking a little about the misses....

I have had my work abruptly returned to me in a large box via UPS without warning. Intact and all accounted for thankfully.

I have been told via email to come pick up my work that the shop was closing at the end of the week. At not one shop, but two. (Didn't I just respond to an ad you ran last week looking for artists? WTF?)

I have had shop owners rip my business info stickers off of the back of my work leaving the paper backings on my mirrors ripped. (If you don't want people to know where to find me directly you should have told me and I would not have put them on the pieces I dropped off.)

There have also been pieces returned to me damaged, gift shops that end up not having normal business hours but signs out front that say "Open by appointment or by chance" and shop owners that merchandised my art like a tag sale. Yes, I have learned the hard way when it comes to consignment.

Here is my advice when it comes to choosing & dealing with consignment opportunities:

Think twice before consigning somewhere out of state or too far from your house or studio. It is nice to be able to hop in the car and take a ride to the places you are consigning at. You can keep an eye on what is selling, if the shop owner is dusting off your pieces and properly merchandising things, and you can also rotate your stock more frequently. It is also easier to build a working relationship with the owner, and get to know the target market for the area.

While it is probably not a good idea to come out and ask a shop owner if they are still going to be in business in a month, you can look into how long they have been in business and their overall reputation in the community. Ask around. See what businesses are next to them or across the street. Is it a busy area? Is there a place for customers to park?

As with any business agreement, it is imperative that you enter into some type of written contract that clearly states the terms and conditions. What commission does the shop get per sale? How long will they keep your pieces before they will return the items that do not sell? Will they even rotate stock, or if no pieces sell in X days, will the agreement be terminated? Is your work insured while in the shop? If damaged, do they pay you your would be earned percentage on it? How and when will you be paid? If you need to ship items to them will they split the cost or cover it? If there is anything you are unsure of, ask. Be sure to sign and date the contract and the shop owner should do the same. If it is in writing, you have all you need to dispute things that may arise.

"Wow! They found me on Etsy and convo'd me to ask if I would like to consign at their shop!" Let me just say, be careful! While some opportunities may be totally legit, it is very easy to be taken for a ride. Think, think and think again ~ do you really feel comfortable packing up a bunch of your creations and shipping them off to most likely somewhere across the country *without receiving payment for them*. That is really what consignment is. You are providing a store with beautiful handmade merchandise to stock their walls and shelves and racks at no cost to them. (Yes, they are providing the venue, the exposure to potential customers and all of those things) But... you are making the decision to part with your work up front with no immediate compensation.

While I don't despise this method of selling, I am much more cautious when deciding who & where to do business. After several bad experiences and at one point having 5 consignment accounts at once, I am down to one. This one shop is a pleasure to do business with. It is much less stressful for me to deal with one successful and easy-going account than several dysfunctional ones.

It is always best to do your research before jumping into any opportunity. Hopefully I have provided you with a little bit of insight into things. Good luck!

Next in the series, craft shows.

Your Creative Space

2010-05-17T12:08:00.003-04:00

Just the other day I was listening to two podcasts about "honoring & protecting your creative space"; a topic I had not really thought about before. As someone who is fortunate enough to have my own private work space in a second bedroom, I always assumed that is what was most important to my creative time. Turns out, I have not been honoring or protecting this studio space and giving myself what I need to create and be a peace while working.

Here are the links for the free podcasts.

Honoring Your Space

Protecting Your Space

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this after you listen. Do you honor your creative space? Do you protect it?

WooooooT!

2010-05-06T16:26:00.001-04:00

★★★ So excited to be at 195 sales in my Etsy shop! I am giving away a free art magnet with the next 4 purchases. And for the 200th ~ I am giving away a prize pack valued at $50.00. Yay!!★★★

Art Auctions Now Up & Running

2010-04-27T19:57:00.003-04:00

I am happy to announce that auctions are now being offered on my website http://www.GeminiMoonMosaics.com. Bid on OOAK artwork! Low starting bids, and no reserves on some unique pieces. The auctions page is private and exclusive to GMM customers. Simply register to place a bid. Pay Pal is the only form of payment accepted. Auctions will run 5-7 days and be rotated weekly.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you so much.

Galleries, Consignments & Craft Shows, Oh My! Pt. 1

2010-04-09T15:41:00.013-04:00

It is hard to believe that I have been out in the real world as an artist for 12 years now. Getting your work out there can be exhausting, disappointing, exciting, and down right impossible. (Sometimes it feels like it's been 20 years!) Back when I began my adventure, the Internet was there, but not really a popular tool for artists. There was the old fashioned portfolio option, the leather bound kind with the zipper and the handle. As an illustration major this was my option. Gather your best work and try to get appointments with art directors and publishing companies, or put together a cool and catchy packet of your work and mail it everywhere and hope it gets noticed. Yeah right.

Needless to say, my days as an illustrator were numbered. My interests changed quickly once I got a clear view of what exactly I had to do to sell my work and myself as an artist. I believe I mentioned my short attention span a few times in previous blogs. Long story short, I pursued a path of craft type art. (You name it I tried it!) In the end, mosaics and mixed media won me over. So what to do now that I found my purpose? How about galleries, consignment opportunities and craft shows.

Sounds easy enough right? Well, I'd like to share some of my experiences with each of those options. The good, the alright, the amazing and the downright disasters. Maybe you can relate. Maybe your are just starting out and I can give you a bit of advice. Maybe I will encourage you to pursue an art adventure outside of Etsy and the interwebs. Here we go. Part 1 of a 3 part series....

Galleries

This is fairly new territory for me. It is only in the last 4 years or so that I have shown work at galleries. This door opened for me when I discovered a local Co-op gallery a few towns away from me. I entered some mosaic work into an open show they were having, and eventually joined the co-op. Any opportunity that came along there to show work, I did. As long as the theme fit my particular art. Then I got up the nerve to enter two pieces into a juried show. One out of my two got in. That opportunity actually turned into another opportunity. the owner of another gallery saw my work and contacted me. I am still with that gallery today just about 2 years later.

My Advice:

Look into local artist co-ops in your area. Enter into open shows and get involved. Start there, and then consider moving on and approaching galleries on your own once you get a few shows under your belt.

Be aware of the average percentage that gallery owners take. In my experience it can be anywhere from 30%-50%.

Are there any other artists you know that have done business with a certain gallery you are considering? Ask around if you can. You can learn so much by reaching out. Galleries can earn reputations, both positive and negative among local artists. This may help you in deciding who to approach.

Always leave the gallery with an agreement in writing. It should state the terms of the agreement and be signed and dated by both you and the owner. Also, whether or not the gallery owner requires it, you should have a full list of the inventory you are handing over. The titles, dimensions and prices. You sign it, date and have them do the same.

All in all, I have had good experiences with the galleries I have dealt with. They can be a wonderful venue for higher priced pieces that you may not be able to move in your Etsy shop.

Stay tuned for the next in this series of blogs ~ Consignment! A whole other enchilada!!

Lemon Zest

2010-03-28T21:19:00.005-04:00

It has been so long (almost 2 years!) since I made a treasury on Etsy. The sun, moon and stars must have been aligned just right tonight.... because I snuck in there and only had to wait 2 minutes for a spot to open up. Just look at these gorgeous picks!

Lemon Cloud by stehanielevy
Sherbert Lemon Flower by ffflowers
Fused Glass Votive Holder by SassyGlassStudio
Yellow Star Mosaic Dish by Sigmosaics
Lemon Baby in sunflower field by dancingintherain
Day Lily Lemon Chiffon by FrawgzDezignz
Retro Yellow Wall Clock by thesundaytimesmarket
Black and Lemon Yellow sikf flower infant headband by pinkpeppermintdesign
Sunshine Pillowcase by craftscafe
Paris Velocipede Canvas Original by peaceofpi
Baby Lemon Fairy Angels Print by ArtAndDreams
Easter Classical Pouch Bag by ferragobags

Groovy Pop Shop

2010-03-02T16:47:00.006-05:00

I am very excited to announce the Grand Opening of my 3rd Etsy shop:

Groovy PoP Shop

This new adventure is a chance for me to share another aspect of my creative mind; the part that thrives on the thrill of seeking out the perfect vintage goodies to use in creating, decorating and collecting. With an emphasis on the 1960's & 1970's, I am striving to bring you unique finds, must haves and the most groovy merchandise left from days gone by.

Vintage Oddities, Bottle Caps & Funky Memorabilia

Head on over and take a look! I'll be adding new things often as I get settled in. And for exclusive offers and the latest listings Become a Fan of Groovy PoP Shop on Facebook.

Back to Work

2010-02-09T12:22:00.002-05:00

This is possibly the longest length of time I have gone without blogging. Finding the time in the past several months has been difficult. In fact, I have not had much time to devote to the studio either. In recent months life has thrown a few obstacles my way and I am just beginning to overcome them. As I begin to heal, create and get back into the studio I am feeling better. In fact the only thing that can help me begin to heal is to cut plates, glue paper, paint and make a big old mess in my workspace.

Today I listed some new collage art magnets in my Etsy shop, and I have also begun to list some cool de-stash supplies for sale in my other shop Assorted Olives as well. My plan is to list new goodies every day this week.

And here is a first... I am actually looking forward to grouting some mosaics I have sitting here in my studio. Yes, I want to grout. Usually that is the part I like the least, especially during winter when I can't pack up and go outside.

So later this week I'll have some new mini mirrors, new 8" size peace signs and some smaller candle holders too. I am so thankful to be back to work.

Hey CT... Buy Handmade!

2009-11-17T20:44:00.007-05:00

The Gift Shop at Meiklem Kiln Works
is having their 10th Annual Pottery/Art Sale!

Buy a beautiful handmade gift made by local Connecticut artists. A selection of my mosaic and mixed media work will also be available.

Sale hours are Saturday, November 21st, 9am-5pm and Sunday, November 22nd, 9am-2pm.

To learn more about Meiklem Kiln works and see their winter 2010 class schedule, check out their website.

What's New?

2009-10-25T18:36:00.002-04:00

Between my day job and watching my NY Yankees battle it out for the World Series at night, I have not been spending much time in the studio at all. Since my time for mosaic art is limited I have been creating small paintings and ACEO's for my second Etsy shop, Assorted Olives. There are a few new things I'd love to share that I have been working on.

The first photo seen above is a design that can be purchased on a mug in my new Zazzle shop. Creating unique designs using my original art and some magical tricks in Photoshop has been so much fun. I am looking forward to stocking the shop with more goodies as we move ahead towards the gift giving season. Go check it out!

Painting ACEO's is my favorite way to relax and get my mind off of things. Look for an expanded selection in my Assorted Olives shop just in time for the holidays. I am also working on some larger works on canvas too.

There *will* be new mosaics in my shop before the holidays as well. So be sure to keep an eye on my mixed media & mosaic shop Gemini Moon Mosaics too.

Enter to Win a Mini Mosaic Mirror

2009-10-03T20:06:00.007-04:00

Enter to win this original, one of a kind mini mosaic mirror in my first ever give-away! There are two ways to get your entry in. Read on to find out how to participate.

1. Are you on Facebook? Become a fan of Gemini Moon Mosaics.

2. Go to my Etsy shop http://www.GeminiMoonMosaics.etsy.com

3. Choose your favorite thing from my shop.

4. Return to my fan page on Facebook and post the name and link to your favorite.

Once you comment there, you are entered.

Not on Facebook? Don't worry! Just leave your selection here as a comment. Entries from both my fan page and this blog post will be put in the virtual hat.

The winner will be randomly selected using www.random.org and announced on Sunday, October 11th. Good luck!

Battling the 9 - 5 Blues

2009-09-28T22:05:00.005-04:00

Juggling a 9-5 job and maintaining an Etsy shop and art career on the side can be difficult. For many artists, myself included, it is the reality. Keeping the creativity going when you are tired from a days work can be so hard. Ideas may be swirling around, but the energy and lack of time can really get in the way of getting the ideas out and bringing them to life.

For me, I have learned that I can not force myself to spend time in my studio at night after dinner if I am not feeling up to it. Those thoughts appear "but I have to make things" or "I haven't listed any thing new yet this week" and that feeling of being unproductive creeps in. It used to be that I would stay up late, work on projects and then have a horrible time getting up the next morning. My mood and attitude during the work day become cranky. This in turn crushes every last ounce of creativity I may have to work on a project that day when I get home.

I have found a way to keep my creativity going during the week and not overwhelm myself with projects that I can not devote the proper time and attention to. I started working on small scale projects. Collage pieces mostly, like the 3 seen in the photos here. Whether I work at my table in my studio, or take my supplies downstairs and work while I watch TV, these pieces are just the right size to work on. When I am not making a small scale collage, you can find me painting ACEO's.

For me, creating something, even if it just ends up being a study that turns into a large scale project one day, is enough to keep my artsy side happy. Thinking small, I can set out with only an hour or two to work a day and actually complete a piece. My more ambitious projects... well, I will admit I plan those out in my head during the day at work sometimes. I may even sketch out a few things. I save my big stuff for my precious days off, the weekends, or a Friday night after drinking a bit of coffee.

New Work & New Opportunities

2009-09-12T18:41:00.005-04:00

It's about time!!

New mini mirrors are here.....

Click the pictures to check them out one by one, or take a look at my Mini Mirror section in my Etsy shop.

And I am happy to announce that my work is now available at Meiklem Kiln Works Clay Studio. It is a fabulous studio offering classes in many mediums, it has a yoga studio and an amazing gift shop featuring unique work from several artists. I am excited to be a part of it. Check it out if you are in the CT area.

★★★ End of Summer BOGO SALE! ★★★

2009-08-30T15:40:00.002-04:00

★★★ End of Summer BOGO SALE! ★★★

Buy one piece of wearable art get a second one for half price!

Check out the BOGO section for a beautiful assortment of altered art pendants and pinbacks. Buy any one item there and receive any other wearable art piece of equal or lesser value at half price. AND

★★★ Buy 3 wearable art items and get a 4th FREE! ★★★

Refunds will be promptly issued via Paypal. Sale applies to wearable art only. Please contact me if you have any questions.

It's not too early to think about those little gifts you need for the holidays. Now is a great time to get started! And remember I do combine shipping on multiple purchases.

Hey There

2009-08-24T20:54:00.003-04:00

Just checking in to say that I am still here, making mosaics and mixed media goodies. I am now juggling my daytime seasonal job as well and honestly, time management has never been a strength of mine....

But I did manage to get a couple of new pieces done. Have a look below at my favorite! And get ready, much more new work will be making its way to my Etsy shop in the upcoming month.

My Current Studio Playlist

2009-08-07T20:33:00.006-04:00

Music is a huge part of the creative process for me. In fact, it is a huge part of my everyday life even when I am not creating. Who needs TV when you have an I Pod and sites like Pandora? My taste in music is a little wacky. Well, not so much wacky... maybe eclectic is a better way to put it. Who says Frank Sinatra can't be in the same set as The Killers?

I thought I would share my current playlist, the tunes I am currently blasting as I blissfully nip tile, glue and grout. Yes, I know it is 2009. Very few new songs. I can't help it. I am stuck in the 90's, hopelessly addicted to the 80's, loving the 70's and grooving to the sounds of the 60's. There might even be some older stuff in there too. Enjoy!

Thoughts for the Month of July

2009-07-21T15:37:00.011-04:00

"The Collection" Now available at Center Framing and Art in West Hartford, CT

It's been a while. Summer is flying by. My artwork has taken a new turn and I am excited to say that I have a few consignment accounts now. My attention has shifted from strictly my Etsy shop and 1000 Markets shop, to maintaining my inventory and planning ahead month by month on what work is going where. I am so grateful for the opportunities that have come my way! This new path is proving to be a challenge, but it is one I have been waiting for.

In a past post, I had talked about the overwhelming feelings surrounding the effort it takes to maintain so many places on the web, so many projects and so many things. I have since had a moment (or several moments) of clarity. By slowing down, turning off the computer at 5pm instead of 11pm, taking the time to read a book if I feel like it, or just listen to music, or watch the Yankee game or just sit outside I have learned that I really only have to do one thing at a time. I create my chaos. I choose to always be "doing" instead of just "being". Twitter is not the enemy! Me thinking I have to run there and post, and follow and chat... that is where the problem comes in.

For me, there is peace in shutting down the computer before dinner, working on a new mirror because I am moved to (not because I have 3 hours to), and taking time just to watch TV or read. I like doing one thing at a time, and fully experiencing and enjoying that one thing I happen to be doing.

Wow!

2009-07-12T23:58:00.004-04:00

It has been a good week! My art was featured in two more stunning treasuries this weekend. I'd like to thank slvilov for including one of my peace sign mosaics in her beautiful treasury "Lovely Dotty, Mosaics, More".

And I'd also like to thank BethanyRoseDesigns for including one of my mini mirrors, Aqua Dot in her "Nutmeg State Artists" treasury. It is cool to be featured among other talented artists from my home state of CT.

Thank you both very much. :o)

Wishing I Was at the Beach

2009-07-07T19:42:00.003-04:00

But for now I will settle on being in this beautiful treasury by aimeesarmoire. It is titled: Just Another Day at the Beach and includes my mosaic mirror Tropical Kiwi, (a favorite of mine because I love green!) Lovely picks! Thank you so much.

New in my 1000 Markets Shop

2009-07-06T20:31:00.004-04:00

Vintage Love

An altered art domino pendant. Amazingly rich, bright and gorgeous color on this piece! Vintage floral ribbon looks like a watercolor painting. Green glass bugle beads add texture. A brass vintage stamping with the word Love hangs off the bottom and is dressed up with a pretty rose colored bead. Arrives on the brass ox 18" ball chain seen in photo.

A Hundred Directions.....

2009-07-03T19:42:00.006-04:00

....That is what I feel like I am headed in. Too many projects, too many social networking sites, too many things. My art world is getting a little jumbled. While I have never been one to focus on one thing exclusively, I am at a point where I am not focusing enough on any one thing. Lately I have been more likely to pick up a book or my Ipod than to sit down and create. There is just too much going on.

I have dealt with creative slumps before. Those long and drawn out periods of time when you have shiny new supplies, and loads of time and energy to create, but the ideas are just not there. Right now it is a bit different. I have started too many things and left them unfinished, or just did not put forth the effort to really develop an idea as far as I should. It is time to figure out what is working for me, what truly makes me happy, and to change or eliminate the things that do not.

This applies not only to things I have been working on, but also that super long list of social networking sites bookmarked in my favorites. Between user names and passwords, and trying to keep up with them I am tired. It has got to be more effective to give 100% to 2-3 than to give 20% to a dozen.

The ole' quality not quantity theory. Is anyone else with me on this? I have read that as artists we should branch out online, build a brand, join this, join that, sell here, market here, market there. Even this crazy Gemini that is usually fueled by multi-tasking is on overload.

What is actually working for you? What has proved to be the most valuable way to spend time other than making your art? Will my world really crumble if I don't Tweet or send updates to my Facebook fans?

This month I plan to simplify. My creativity and sanity depends on it. I'll keep you posted on my progress or any profound realizations I happen upon. I'd also love to hear from you. Post here and share your thoughts. Maybe together we can figure out how to just get back to creating.

Polka Dot Series

2009-06-29T21:35:00.002-04:00

Original mini acrylic paintings now available in my Assorted Olives shop.

New Today ~ Memories in Au

2009-06-22T17:48:00.004-04:00

I don't really care for gold toned trinkets, but over time I have accumulated a bunch of them. Charms, bits pieces, tile, broken chains and buttons, screws and doo dads.

In keeping with my "use what I have on hand" trend and going through my drawer of forgotten supplies, I came across the baggie containing all of my golden treasures. In a moment of glittering clarity I imagined using all of the trinkets on one piece: Much in the style of my color study collage mirrors that I have been making.

So here we have it. All of the gold toned things that I have been hoarding and putting aside. I might be coming around on the gold thing. :o)

In the Works

2009-06-16T19:41:00.002-04:00

It has been back to the studio for me the past few days. I have started several new large mirrors and quite a few smaller projects as well. Here is a sneak peek into 2 of the newest.

As I work on them, I will post more pictures. Hopefully I will have them both ready to grout at the end of this week. In the meantime, if the sun would come out and stay out long enough, then I would be able to photograph the smaller works I have completed and get them listed. The weather here is more like April than June.

I also started to list more mixed media and mosaic work in my 1000Markets Shop. My shop is beginning to shape up over there, and in light of the SEO problems on Etsy, I may be listing even more work there in the near future.

Sister Golden Hair Surprise

2009-06-12T22:14:00.003-04:00

A selection of ReTRo inspired mixed media and mosaic art in shades of gold. I just love the spotlight feature on ByHand.me! Check out these cool spotlights made by other members here.

Quote of the Day

2009-06-12T18:55:00.003-04:00

A cat has absolute emotional honesty: human beings, for one reason or another, may hide their feelings, but a cat does not. - Ernest Hemingway

★★★ YART SALE! ★★★

2009-06-09T17:34:00.005-04:00

I am participating in the Second Annual Yart Sale Sponsored by Team ESST ~ June 10 - June 14. Have a look in my Yart Sale section for some terrific deals on some one of a kind art. It's already discounted, no need to wait for a refund, just go shop and save instantly. Over 20 items have been marked down. :o)

See my Yart Sale Section HERE.

AND

A FREE GIFT will be included with all purchases totaling $25.00 or more. Just spend $25 before the shipping. A little something extra to say thank you.

**Remember, I will combine shipping if you are purchasing multiple items. Refund will be sent via Pay Pal as soon as your purchases are packed and weighed.**

Stop by Gemini Moon Mosaics and start shopping now.

A Beautiful Treasury

2009-06-09T11:03:00.002-04:00

And my mosaic art wall piece, Composition 76 is featured in it! Thank you stdesign for including my work in this gorgeous treasury titled Blue Stripes.

New Mosaic Mirror

2009-06-08T13:55:00.001-04:00

Bluey Leftovers ~ Now available in my Etsy Shop.

So I Got a Convo This Morning....

2009-06-04T09:54:00.008-04:00

A Shout Out to Retro Handmade

2009-06-03T09:45:00.004-04:00

Retro Handmade is a group of Etsy sellers who specialize in handmade vintage-inspired items that resemble things from the past or create things that have retro vibe. They are a friendly and awesome group of sellers on Etsy, and you can search for members' hand made vintage inspired items by searching either of these phrases "retroetsyteam" or "retrohandmade" in the search box at the top of the page.

Today I am the Featured Member on the team's blog. I'd like to thank Kelly of retro80s.etsy.com, the leader of Retro Handmade for the post and for the fun interview questions and for all the work you do for Retro Handmade.

For more information on the team, check out our profile page. You can also catch up with members and see all the unique wares they offer on the team's Flickr, Twitter and their Facebook Fan Page.

Quote of the Day

2009-06-02T11:07:00.003-04:00

"Responsibility does not only lie with the leaders of our countries or with those who have been appointed or elected to do a particular job. It lies with each of us individually. Peace, for example, starts within each one of us. When we have inner peace, we can be at peace with those around us." ~ His Holiness the Dalai Lama

New Things

2009-06-01T21:39:00.002-04:00

After searching through my bin of forgotten supplies, I came across a bunch of table top frames that I had stashed away. At one point I may have had a particular project in mind for them but it had been so long, I could not remember. I decided to create some collages on heavy watercolor paper to work with the frames. And so this new line of table top framed artwork came about.

Right now I have these two listed in my Etsy shop. There are several more to come. :)

Forest Folk III ~ 5/17/09

2009-05-30T13:12:00.004-04:00

Some pictures from my first show of the season, Forest Folk III.

Home Decor Flashback ~ 1978

2009-05-29T13:22:00.008-04:00

While searching my vintage cookbooks for the perfect recipe to share with you all in my ReTRo Cookbook Classics series, I stumbled upon this gem of a book that I had forgotten about. An awkward series of "how to" instructions for a number of needlework projects, published in the oh so chic year of 1978. Annette Feldman's Needlework for the Home leaves no room untouched. From the kitchen to the bathroom and even to the backyard, there is a crafty creation just right for your space. In addition to sewing, knitting and crocheting and other still popular tried and true applications, this book also explores some crafts that have lost a bit of momentum in the last 30 years, like shell working and pasta working. (can't find an example of that one!)

Here is a sampling of some of the projects found between these old pages. Enjoy.

Mirror-Framed Bright Flowers and a Matching After-Bath Sarong

Nothing says I have style more than coordinating your bath sarong with the framed art on your wall. This is a classic example of embroidered beauty that will leave you staring at your reflection thinking, "Can I be anymore fabulous?"

The Barbecue Butler, Grill Cover & Decorative Sheild for Outdoor Hors d'Oeuvres

Why hasn't the Barbecue Butler concept caught on? Seriously? All of the tools, condiments and other crocheted items can store easily in the pockets and hang directly within reach of the grill. Handmade, crocheted genius. The grill cover could double as a really cool rasta hat. And the hors d'oeuvres sheild, pretty and functional. When I was a kid, we had the standard mosquito net type.

Bedspread, A Stunning Jewel Case Made of Pasta and a Fringed Lampshade

First I must say I am very fond of the wallpaper in this room. Next I must say that I too had a canopy bed in the 70's, although it did not have a top on it. Now let's address the fine pasta working skills on that jewel case... the details can not be seen in this photo, but I can tell you that there are 5 different types of pasta on it. It is a macaroni mosaic masterpiece. The lampshade is ultra groovy. I just wonder how the yarn complies with safety regulations when heated by a light bulb.

Creepy Sailor Rabbit Thingy

His name is "Percival" and he is a "Life-Size Life-Time Friend". He stands just about 4 feet tall and also sports a "hidden pocket for storing a child's most precious things." You can't help but wonder how many children actually received this creation from the crafty relative in the family after this book came out. A very disturbing thought.

A Pasta-Beaded Macrame Curtain

"Spread thirty-three manicotti over newspaper, spray them with bright blue enamel and allow to dry...." And Annette thinks you should take this design and really make it your own, but she gives some suggestions that sound lovely. "Green yarn and white enameled pasta would be a stunning combination for a summer or tropical home, while shades of yellow, gold and orange would add a note of sunshine to any setting."

Oh Annette, thank you for adding a note of sunshine to my day with your retrotastic book.

Check Out My Brand New Shop!

2009-05-26T14:49:00.003-04:00

Once again, Gemini Moon Mosaics is changing and rearranging. My altered art pendants have all been added to my brand new shop on 1000Markets.com. From now on, this new shop will be home to all of my wearable art collections. 1000 Markets is a community of marketplaces, each specializing in a theme, particular region, or style of art. Currently, I am a member of the Peace & Love Market where all of the pieces featured capture the feel of the 60's and 70's.

I will also be featuring some of my mosaic wall art in my new shop as well. It is my goal to keep a whole different collection of art between the two shops. Add in my 2nd Etsy shop Assorted Olives, and I am ready for the challenge to keep on creating.

Featured Artist of the Month ~ taissalada

2009-05-20T14:29:00.006-04:00

After falling behind on my regular blog articles last month, I am very excited to get back on track and introduce you to this month's Featured Artist: Taissa Lada of Taissa Lada Designs. Old Hollywood glamour comes to mind as I browse through her shop and her work is unique, vintage inspired and beautifully crafted. Let's learn a little about Taissa and the inspiration behind her designs.

Q. Tell us a little about yourself.

A. My name is Taissa Lada but most people refer to me as "Tai' like you tie your shoes. I'm in my late 30's and I live in Minneapolis with my two cats "Pee Wee" and "Simba". I do this full time, so this is actually my job, the hat making that is. I started out with high end evening wear and sort of morphed into hat making by accident. I had always dabbled in accessories, especially hat and head wear in my early years in design school and over the years more and more people began asking for just the hats so I went with the flow and kept going with the supply and they got more and more in demand. I love making the pieces, to me it's like soft sculptures. I love when the feathers move in mid air, sometimes the shape will change over time. it's like they have a mind of their own.

As far as hobbies go I love to travel and try and make time for it when I can. A few of my favorite places are New York, London and Paris. I lived in Chicago for 13 years from 1992 -2005 but moved back to MN where I was born and raised in the spring of 2005. I needed a change so I up and left.

Q. When did you start and how did you get into your art/craft?

My hats sort of started with a "bad hair day" My hair dresser cancelled on me last minute due to "being sick" and I was in dire need to cover up my nappy roots. I started picking up flowers and feathers that were on my studio floor and pinning them in my hair. I had always dabbled in hair accessories at the time I mainly did high end evening wear but this make shift hair cover up was a major marking in my designing. I went out that night to an opening I was showing in and all my girlfriends wanted something similar and I came home with orders on the back of bar napkins. I started making more and more of them due to word of mouth, self promoting and some shops carrying my accessories and eventually my accessories stated to float the line and I began to build the hat moulds as well.

I've been a thrift store junkie since I can remember. I think it all started with a leopard fake fur coat I bought at Ragstock for 5.00 when I was 14. I was never able to shake my adoration for that particular print. I absolutely love it, especially shoes and lingerie. Most of my hats are lined with it. Sometimes I'll use old garments as well for the linings if I like them, I think that garments and accessories should be just as beautiful on the inside as the outside. It's like when you see a house from the outside and you walk inside and you're like WOW!!! I was not expecting this at all! To me that's what I want my items to be like.

Q. Where do you get the ideas and inspiration for your art/craft?

As far as the process goes, I guess I really don't have a method behind my madness. I just start working and I see where my hands and mind take me. I'm really inspired by the deep blue sea, tropical flowers,and vintage fashion. As you can see, I'm a big fan of color and I never met a feather I didn't like. I have a back ground in fashion and a BFA . I graduated from the School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago were I graduated from in 1996.

Q. What is your favorite thing about making your art/craft?

I love that fashion is always changing, I always have a million ideas that branch off into different things. I really love working one on one with my clients and I love doing really over the top stuff for them. I like when someone buys something from me and totally make it their own and works in their own style. I love taking something old and giving new life to it, changing it around a bit and adding new materials. As I said before I don't really have a method, I generally have an idea of the shape and colors used but a lot of times my ideas come to me as I start working. One of the best things is seeing my creations on other people and how diverse the crowd with me is. It ranges from burlesque performers, to drag queens, ascot and horse race fans to lady's who lunch and wear my items to church. I'm still pretty shocked that this whole thing turned out the ways that it did and has evolved over the years to where it is today. All I wanted to do was cover up my roots and look presentable. Guess that bad hair day years ago was a sigh and turned in to something great!

To see more of Taissa's work, head over to her Etsy shop.

Quote of the Day

2009-05-18T22:17:00.003-04:00

There is no way to peace; peace is the way. ~A.J. Muste (1885-1967)

Join Gemini Moon on Facebook

2009-05-12T15:18:00.002-04:00

Are you on Facebook? Well I'd love to connect with you! Come check out the official Gemini Moon Mosaics fan page. Join us for fan only specials, and daily updates on new listings, upcoming shows, new blog posts and noteworthy news. Updates appear like magic right to your home page... (ya know, in between all your friend's quiz results and status blurbs) I am also planning some cool contests and give aways for the summer.

Just go here and click "Become a Fan" under the pretty photo on the top left of the page. See you there!

First Show of the Season

2009-05-07T09:31:00.003-04:00

Next weekend I will be sharing my wares at the Forest Folk III Festival at Schreiber's Farm in Oxford, CT. Forest Folk is "A 4 Day Gathering where teachers, artists, performers, crafters, students, and dream weavers come together to share, learn and grow in all ways through our statement of purpose." EMBRACING UNIVERSAL SPIRITUALITY, PROMOTING PEACE & HARMONY, INSPIRING CREATIVITY, KNOWLEDGE & LOVE. And this festival is all done in the name of charity, donating all of their proceeds to St. Jude's Childrens Research Hospital.

I am very excited to be a part of this inspiring and meaningful event. I'll be vending all day on Saturday, the 16th. I will also be donating $1.00 of every magnet sold from now until the end of the day on the 16th to St. Jude's. This applies to all of my magnet sales in my Etsy shop, and that day at the fest.

Hope to see you there!

A Saturday in May

2009-05-05T19:15:00.007-04:00

April was a difficult month. On the 11th, my Grandmother passed away at the age of 84 after struggling with a variety of health issues for the past few years. Even when there is illness involved, nothing can prepare you for losing a loved one.

My Grandparents in 1948.

This past Saturday was Grandma's 85th birthday. After heading to the cemetery to plant some flowers, we drove around the town I was born and lived in until I was 10. What started out to be a cloudy day with a forecast of rain, turned out to be a radiant, sunny afternoon. We walked on the beach where we spent most of our summer days. It looked different, smaller somehow... but I remembered it like it was yesterday.

Even thought the tide was low, it still looked pretty to me. Low tide never stopped us when we were kids. We would search for snails, mussels and other sea life to keep in our pails. Grandma loved the water and we would go clamming. I would dig in the dark thick sludge with a little rake, and carry the clams back to the beach in my t-shirt.

After leaving the beach, I noticed this tree in the parking lot. The color was so stunning against the blue sky. Spending time outside in nature can truly heal your soul.

Happy Birthday Grandma. I will always miss you. ♥

☀♥☂ MaY DaY Special ALL Weekend!! ☀♥☂

2009-05-01T16:37:00.003-04:00

Shop this weekend in and receive 10% off your total order. Grab those Mother's Day gifts, Spring birthday presents and maybe a little something for yourself.

www.GeminiMoonMosaics.etsy.com

**Just type the words 'May Day' in the message to seller box at checkout. I will refund the difference via Pay Pal. OR Simply make your purchase and convo me when you are through shopping and I will send you an amended invoice.

☀ HaPPY SpRiNG!!! ☀

Custom Peace Signs Now Available

2009-04-28T19:29:00.006-04:00

Brand new this week! Custom mosaic peace signs.

I will work with you to design your peace sign using the colors and layout you would like. Choose from stained glass, vitreous glass and hand cut plate tile. Match your living room, your child's room, your half bath, or maybe custom design one for a friend.

☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮☮

The peace sign measures 10" round and will arrive ready to hang. The mosaic design will cover the front of the symbol as seen in the photos and the edges will be finished in coordinating ribbon or paint.

The photo above has some examples of peace sign designs. Colors, designs, styles are limitless! Add glass gems or choose all stained glass, or maybe you're crazy about daisies like me. See the listing here in my Etsy Shop.

I also am once again accepting Alchemy Requests via Etsy. So if you are interested in a custom mirror or other artwork, please feel free to contact me. I'd love to work with you!

byhand.me ~ For Mom Spotlight

2009-04-27T12:14:00.003-04:00

I created this "spotlight" titled For Mom on a new site I recently came across called Made by Hand. By Me. Their tagline is "Put the personal back in handmade" and they are doing just that. It is a friendly community of like minded artists and artisans. There are forums, and a chat area and things to cater to buyers and sellers alike. I created my profile about 2 weeks ago and I am still finding my way around and figuring out all of the cool features they offer. The spotlight feature is my favorite so far! You can check out my profile which has a blog, a sample of my Flickr photo stream, and links to just about every venue and social networking site I am on ~ all in one place. You gotta check it out!

Outdoor Studio

2009-04-26T11:08:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I packed up a bin full of painting gear and headed downstairs and outside to our little patio. I spent the entire afternoon working on mini paintings in the warm air and sunshine. The music was provided courtesy of my Ipod, which blasted a playlist of 80's music and then Bob Marley. It was a good day.

New Today

2009-04-21T22:36:00.003-04:00

ReTRo Mixed Media Collage and Hand Painted Mirror DAISY GROOVE

Altered Art Collage Domino Pendant with Ribbon Necklace October Sun

Altered Art Domino Pendant with Ribbon Necklace Spring Love

Quote of the Day

2009-04-20T22:09:00.001-04:00

Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace.

-- Buddha (560-483 B.C.)

Cast Your Vote!

2009-04-07T07:02:00.004-04:00

This week I am being featured in the Artisans Challenge on Blockheadradiolive.com. BlockHead Radio is an independent Internet radio station featuring music from the top rock/pop/jazz indie musicians and talk shows that are about independent artisans, family, and life. Perfect to listen to as you create or work at your desk. And they are supporting and promoting independent artists... so tune in today!

While you are there, please take a minute to check out the Artisans Challenge. The prize is an on air commercial and banner link on their site. I have my eye on the prize! Please take a minute and cast your vote for my "Feelin' Groovy" mirror in the 3D category.

Be sure to vote in each category. And if you are an artisan, artist or crafter go ahead and enter! It is free and a great way to get your work out there.

Thanks and have a great day!
Peace, Love & Tile ☮♥
Jeanine

Grand Re-Opening of Assorted Olives

2009-04-03T18:53:00.004-04:00

Finally!! After months in the making I have once again opened the door to my second Etsy shop Assorted Olives. (Read the story here.) With just a few art listings up and 2 destash listings it is not much, but a super start! I am thrilled to be painting again and to be able to share them with you all.

♥ Plate Love ♥

2009-04-02T18:07:00.004-04:00

Oh vintage Mikasa plates.... you made my day. The pattern is called Seminar and it is retro perfection. I found only 3 on a dusty shelf at the thrift store ~ for a quarter each.♥ The question is do I cut them? ♥

New Things

2009-04-01T17:43:00.004-04:00

Collage art pendants on vintage dominoes.

Look for the listings for these pieces in my Etsy Shop later in the week. I am finishing up the ribbon necklaces to go with them and then they will be ready to go.

My newest mixed media pieces, which can be seen below, are a new layered mirror combining mosaics and collage. The color in both of them is so amazing.

La La Leaves available now.

Bird Under a ReTRo Sun available now.

I have been extra crafty these past few days! It feels so good to be creating everyday. I am truly blessed to be able to do what I love. ♥

Inspiration

2009-03-30T18:08:00.006-04:00

Not too long ago I had posted the question "What inspires you to create?" here on my blog, and also on my My Space page. I'd like to share the answers and artwork by two of the creative souls that took a minute to respond. A big thank you to all of you who answered. I'll be featuring answers once a month.

If you would like to share what it is that inspires you, just leave a comment here or contact me. I would love to hear from you!

What inspires you to create?

Retro Long Doxie by chloejessica

Chloejessica said: "I am inspired by my dachshund Chloe and love! I am also inspired by other creative talented people! There are many! But mostly I am inspired by my doxie, love, and of course sunny days! :)"

You can see more of cholejessica's work in her Etsy Shop. Her love for her cute doggy sure does come through in her work. So cute! And be sure to have a look at chloejessica's blog too.

Flower Bag by Firefly Moon Creations

firefly★moon creations said: "~..*.::inspired by nature, & fairies, mythology & stories, the moon & magickal things::.*..~ ~always with my head in the clouds♥~"

I met Anne of Firefly Moon Creations on My Space a few months ago. Anne is a friendly, kind and talented soul. Her earth friendly creations are truly made with love. From beautiful handbags to unique jewelry and hand sewn pretties, even lip balm.

Thank you both for your response and for sharing. :o)

Out for a Walk

2009-03-29T18:50:00.003-04:00

If you go back a handful of blog posts, you'll see that we were still getting snow not that long ago. Luckily the cold weather has begun to fade and we had a warm sunny Saturday to play outside this weekend. We headed to Black Rock State Park which is very close by to our house. Even though the flowers haven't exactly begun to bloom here yet, the scenery was still beautiful. It was also a great opportunity to take my new camera outside and test it out.

It was a beautiful day!

ReTRo Cookbook Classics ~ An Ode to Molds

2009-03-27T21:42:00.006-04:00

Last month I shared a story about a trip to the thrift store and the fantastic vintage cookbooks I purchased. I was so mesmerized by what I found, the decision was made to do a monthly series on the forgotten recipes hidden in the pages of these circa 1970 cookbooks. Originally I had planned to share one recipe a month. That idea quickly went out the window as I flipped through the pages today. I could not help but notice there was an underlying theme, a connection between many of the recipes. It was evident in the titles and of course the pictures. If you don't plan on using a mold to shape the food you cook, then you should not bother to cook at all.

From the meat loaf seen above cleverly filled with fries to the elaborate mini molds of gelatin based treats with assorted vegetables and fruits trapped inside seen below, it seems that using a mold to perfect presentation and impress your guests was all the rage.

This "Spaghetti Catherine" from the 1967, Good Housekeeping- Cooking for the Family can be created by cooking the spaghetti according to package directions then "winding layers of spaghetti around the inside of a greased 3-quart ring mold". Just let it stand 5 minutes then unmold it onto a cookie sheet. Broil at 500 degrees for 10 minutes. Then "transfer ring carefully with the help of two broad spatulas to serving platter."

In case you couldn't tell, those are meat strips (canned lunch meat... aka:Spam) and sausage in the center. Don't forget to pour on the sauce. And they say it slices nicely and can feed 12 guests. Apparently it will float on the surface of a pond or lake too.... or is that a tablecloth?

This last selection is from another 1967 Good Housekeeping book. This one focuses on soups, salads and sandwiches. This absolutely dreadful molded creation is called "Asparagus Mold with Cottage-Cheese Sauce." Had they simply used some type of fruity jello to act as the host to the asparagus it might not be so bad. But this my friends is actually unflavored gelatin with a little bit of sugar, lemon juice and vinegar in it. And this recipe is not for a beginner. It would even give Martha a run for her money. It takes serious skill to encircle those pimentos around the stalks of the asparagus inside the gelatin.

As someone who is baking challenged and can barely get a cake out of a pan in one piece, I have to say I am quite thankful that this is no longer a trend in cooking. The pressure to keep it in one piece must have been intense. Especially knowing that your guests on their way. Oh the horror!

Thanks to Ebay, you can get a hold of one of these now vintage jello molds and give one of these tasty recipes a try. So if you are feeling up to the challenge and want to see the full recipe of any one of these molded treasures, or if you have a cookbook that features some spectacular molded recipes and want to share, feel free to contact me. GMmosaics@aol.com

✿✿✿ABOUT MY FRiDGE ArT CoLLaGE MaGNeTs✿✿✿

2009-03-25T18:50:00.004-04:00

All of my art magnets are handcrafted with LoVE and with the belief that your fridge deserves more than a plastic palm tree or some hot glued sea shells.

They are carefully crafted on 2 inch square (or round) by 1/4 inch thick wood pieces and have a heavy duty round magnet Weldbonded to the back. They are extremely strong magnets and are functional AND fabulous.

All FRiDGE ArT CoLLaGE MaGNeTs:

✱ Will arrive packaged as seen in the center photo.

✱ Are PERFECT for quick gifts!

✱ Always ship for free with any other item in my shop.

Have a look at the full collection here. And stop back soon because I will be adding new magnets daily.

Painting Again

2009-03-22T20:40:00.003-04:00

Even though I have been making mosaics for almost 10 years now, my paint brush has never been far from me. My recent inspiration to begin painting again began over the winter. Little by little I have been working on some small pieces. They are almost ready to be listed in my other shop Assorted Olives.

I am very excited about these hand painted coaster sets. Each one is an original painting. They were so much fun to work on. I've also got some ACEO's, collage art pendants and a few surprises too.

So keep an eye out here on my blog for the announcement of the grand re-opening of Assorted Olives!

Featured Artist ☮ RachelLovesPeace ☮

2009-03-19T12:48:00.002-04:00

I have been wanting to do a continuing series of featured artists on my blog for a long time. After posting last week with the question *what inspires you to create?* with the intention of just sharing some of the answers I had received and posting a little write up about the artist that participated, my idea has changed a bit. There were other questions I wondered about. How did these creative souls begin their journey as artists? What do they love the most about creating? I begin my series of featured artists today with Rachel, of RachelLovesPeace.etsy.com.

Rachel is a fellow member of the Etsy PeaceNiks. She is an upbeat, talented and inspiring artist that truly creates from her heart and her paintings will brighten up even the cloudiest of days. Here is my Q&A with Rachel.

Q. Tell us a little about yourself.

A. My name is Rachel. I live in South Florida with my twin sister Jessica and her doxie Chloe. I have one of those 8 to 5 Monday to Friday stuck in side office jobs that i never pictured myself with. But i am here for now and making the best of it. On my free time I love to paint and create things, I love bike rides, going to the beach, going to thrift stores, and dancing around to the sounds from my record player. I do believe I belonged in the 60s or 70s and I am now living them but I don't really belong in these times. I'd love to be in that Love Era. I am a dreamer I am always thinking of other places I should be like in a field of flowers or atop of a waterfall ready to leap in. I am still a kid at heart and I don't plan on ever really growing up even though I am now in the middle years of my 20s.

Q. How would you describe your art?

A. I sell original unique paintings that I hope will spread peace and love wherever they are set free. I often paint a friendly Peace Owl. He loves spreading peace and love.

Q. When and how did you start creating your art?

A. I have been painting and creating things since I was little either coloring the bars of my crib or the walls of my room. Me and my sister were always coloring together. I officially started selling my art on Etsy in January this year- it was actually my new years resolution and I actually did it haha. It actually all just started happening at once. I found out about a Art & Music Festival (Open Grass) that was local to me that was looking for artists to paint live and display there art. I decided to go for it and for the first time I got to see how others enjoyed my art. I have always made handmade gifts for my friends and family and always love the feeling of giving something to someone that you put all your love into. So I decided to start creating for strangers also because why not try and make just one more person smile because of my art. I painted at Open Grass and loved it. A couple of the paintings I did went to some friendly faces at the festival and all the other paintings I painted at that festival all went into my Etsy shop and that is how it all started. Now I am adding more and more.

Q. Where do you get the ideas and inspiration?

A. Inspiration for me comes from how I view life and how I want to see things change for the better. I paint things that make me happy and I hope will make you happy as well. I use the friendly Peace Owl as a role model I guess just doing fun things like riding his bike, dancing to a record player, and blowing bubbles. While he does anything fun he always remembers to spread peace and love. Inspiration really just comes from inside me. I get the most inspiration when I am feeling free: just really happy, being on a road trip, or with friends, or family, or friends that are family, or even strangers that make you smile, people that inspire you just for being themselves.

Q. What is your favorite thing about making your art/craft?

A. I just love to put a smile on someones face. It makes me so happy to be able to create something that can brighten someones day. I think getting something handmade from someone is the greatest feeling- just knowing how much love goes into something. I hope my paintings make you happy when you see them and that they give you a feeling of being free and that they spread peace and love.

To learn more about Rachel and her desire to spread peace and love through her art, visit her blog. www.RachelLovesPeace.blogspot.com

Her beautiful paintings and prints can be purchased in her Etsy Shop. Thank you so much Rachel!

Soul Pancake Challenge 3/18

2009-03-18T22:56:00.005-04:00

Today's challenge on www.SoulPancake.com was centered around the idea that if you write something down, "you have a seven-times-better chance of actually making it happen." They challenged people to take out their Sharpie markers, write what they really want to happen on their hand and take a picture. (See the actual post here.) By the time I submitted my photo, there were 80 other posts before me. It was very cool to take a minute and look through what others had written and the artistic ways they chose to capture the words in their photos.

I wrote "always choose peace". I have been striving to take a breath and not react in situations where it is easy to choose negativity, harsh words or hate. Whether it is driving in my car, (probably the biggest challenge for me is to remain calm when dealing with other drivers) someone sneaking ahead of me in line the grocery store or helping to diffuse a situation between two individuals... anywhere that I can choose peace I will. The change have all been praying for has begun. The time is now to keep that change in motion.

So what do you want to see really happen?

New Work Headed Out

2009-03-16T16:33:00.005-04:00

This piece titled "Feelin' Groovy" is one of several new colorful mirrors just completed today. These new works will be available at Center Framing and Art in West Hartford, CT. I also have some smaller pieces just about ready to go into my Etsy shop . Stop in and take a look for some beautiful gift ideas for Spring birthdays and don't forget Mother's Day too!

Looking for Creative Minds to Feature on My Blog

2009-03-10T13:56:00.005-04:00

*What inspires you to create?*

Is it nature? Music? other artists? What is your source of inspiration? As part of a new monthly feature on my blog, I am looking to shine the spotlight on some of my fellow creative souls and talk about the motivation behind their craft. (ANY art/craft is welcome!)

Share a few lines here by leaving a comment here. There will be 3 people featured each month. I will share your response to the question, write a little bit about your work and of course put up a link to your site, Etsy shop or other place folks can learn more about you.

Looking forward to your responses! Have a wonderful day.
Peace, Love & Tile
Jeanine

Mosaic Chaos

2009-03-04T17:44:00.004-05:00

Productive days rock. It's the aftermath that can be difficult to deal with. Today I found myself surrounded by tiny bits of stained glass, shards, ripped zip lock bags, plastic containers, glue spills and just a huge mess. I knew I was losing control of my work space around noon, and despite my best efforts I could not get a handle on it.

Aside from the chaos I did accomplish quite a few things today and in the past week. But my bad habit of letting projects pile up and not grouting a few at a time is one that I don't think I will break. One reason being it is still very much winter here. Not conducive to grouting outside at all. In fact at the rate we are going here, I may not get to grout outside until June. The idea of grouting in the house is scary, especially with this much to do. But later this week I am planning on setting up the folding table in my kitchen and just going for it.

Hopefully I will get all of these things finished and listed by next week. My shop is in desperate need of some new mosaics. On the collage and mixed media side... I have got some very cool new pendants that I have been working on. They are going to be part of the re-launch of my other shop. So much going on here! Better get back to work.

18 Days Until Spring

2009-03-02T14:15:00.004-05:00

And here we are just wrapping up another snow storm. I tried to go out for a walk with my new camera to get some pictures.

Didn't get very far. It is so cold!

New Monthly Feature ~ ReTRo Cookbook Classics ~

2009-02-25T16:56:00.015-05:00

Last week's thrift store run introduced me to a whole new world of vintage fun. Not only did they have a special "Stuff a bag for $5.00" which was a pleasant and enjoyable surprise... but I happened upon a large collection of cookbooks, circa 1970. Not only do I love retro, but I love to cook. Surely these books were going to be the perfect addition to my own collection of cookbooks. A super vintage score! I added them to my bag and continued on. Some cool ribbon, a few frames and a couple of vintage ironstone plates, a bag of charms, a few jewelry pieces. The bag was stuffed and I headed home.

I sat down with a cup of coffee to leisurely flip through my pile of cookbooks. Nothing could have prepared me for what I saw.

Caption reads "First stop- appetizer table. Remember, this is only the start!"

Sure it was only the start, but could it get any better than that "Trio of egg-and-olive penguin guards and the anchovy stuffed eggs." (Bedded on ice on a lazy susan of course!)

The colorful array of tasty treats both above and below can be found in Better Homes & Gardens "Meals with a Foreign Flair" from 1971. They are not illustrations. They are actual photographs with lavish displays, weird props and food that looks as synthetic as the polyester pants worn by the photographer that snapped the shots.

The caption with this photo reads "Here's dinnertime drama a la Old Mexico. The star-zingy Enchiladas. Tickets to a bull fight afterward?"

Was it the lighting in the pictures? Was it the age of the paper of the pages? What in the world could make all of this food look like the plastic props from Munchkin Land in the Wizard of OZ? And did people actually think this food looked good? Good enough to purchase the book and whip up a dish or two? I had so many questions.

As I flipped through, my moments of bewilderment began to mix with a bit of fascination. Fascination and the need to share these seemingly lost pieces of culinary history with my modern day blog readers.

In a effort to get the word out, I will be sharing an authentic, circa 1970 recipe from this new found collection every month in my new blog feature ~ReTRo Cookbook Classics~ I will also be accepting submissions! So if you have a super 70's cookbook find that you would like to share, hit me up!! GMmosaics@aol.com

In the meantime, help yourself to some "Sweet and Sour Pork atop fluffy rice" and don't forget the side of abacus.

In the Works

2009-02-23T10:13:00.006-05:00

In February of 2007 I opened a second Etsy shop. It began as a mission to destash the many supplies I had accumulated through the years then quickly evolved to a dedicated supply shop. My trips to area thrift stores, flea markets, estate sales and tag sales became more than just me on the hunt for goodies to work with. I was actively seeking out random treasures and vintage doo dads to share with like minded mixed media artists. Fun stuff!

Meanwhile, over in my mosaic world, things were happening. My shop was doing well, and I was fortunate enough to have connected with a gallery where I began offering some of my larger mosaic mirrors for sale. I chose to put my supply shop on hold and focus on my art. During this time I began to go through my supply shop inventory and I just couldn't help myself.... There were so many cool things! Slowly my inventory began to disappear and end up in my own artwork.

A new collection of unique art has come out of this all and now I am expanding. My obsession with random objects, ReTRo, kitsch, funky, goofy, colorful, vintage and love for painting and collage needed its own place to live.

So be on the lookout for the re-launch of Assorted Olives. An eclectic mix of color & groovy art by Jeanine Molnar. Opening Spring 2009.

New

2009-02-20T14:43:00.003-05:00

The first in a series of bright, fun, waiting for Spring collage art mirrors.
Titled: Lily $18

What is She Doing Now?

2009-02-16T23:07:00.010-05:00

Ever find it hard to keep up with what you are doing? Your brain moves faster than your body and your ability to even start the first thing you thought of. Then just when you think you are getting it, another idea, this one even more amazing than the first pops up. You attempt to terminate all traces of the first idea and elaborate on the second, only to be sidetracked by the chotchkies on the shelf in your kitchen and the sudden urge to do a re-design of your entire downstairs.

Welcome to my life. Maybe it is the Gemini in me. That ability to be adaptable and versatile and keep busy. Or the more negative traits they claim us Gems have; something about nervous energy and a dual aspect ~ making it hard for us to stick to any one thing for a long period of time. Add a few cups of coffee (ok then add 3 to that few) and then duck.

I may always get sidetracked by something shiny on the rug on my way to switch the laundry to the dryer while I wait for the third coat of Mod Podge to dry on my latest collage mirror, but I am learning to embrace my constant state of needing to "do". Bored is not in my vocabulary and I have managed to figure out how to add relaxing to my list of to-do's once in a while. So right now it is all working.

Now Available

2009-02-07T22:38:00.004-05:00

This is the first of a few sets I will be offering in my Etsy shop. Coordinating mirrors and boxes, frames and magnets. See this set, Caramel Delight... just click here.

Featured as a Great Find Today!

2009-02-01T12:10:00.002-05:00

A huge thank you to Terri of http://www.obtp.etsy.com for featuring my art on her blog today. Read the article here. And be sure to check out her shop for gorgeous semi precious stones and sterling silver jewelry.

Minty Fresh

2009-01-31T21:16:00.002-05:00

Available in my Etsy Shop.

http://ww w.GeminiM oonMosaics.etsy.com

Funky Cupid

2009-01-25T01:18:00.003-05:00

This is the result of a late night urge to use faux fur and a metal vintage cut out of cupid, while listening to Frank Sinatra. Hey, I never said I wasn't a little weird....... Check out this funky cupid in my Etsy shop here.

Red Hot Handmade Goodness

2009-01-22T17:21:00.004-05:00

How about a hand made Valentine gift this year for your sweetie? Like these collage art magnets, $12.

Heart shaped wall pocket, $18.00.

Small round mosaic pottery shard mirror, $48.00.

Super hot ReTRo Salsa Party, vintage tile mosaic mirror, $70.00.

Funky ReTRo Cupid Girl wall art, $35.00.

Ice Storms, Paint Tubes & Hot Coffee

2009-01-07T18:44:00.009-05:00

That is pretty much what my January has been so far. A whirlwind of snow, ice and bitter cold. A long overdue reunion between me and my huge drawer of paints. And the consumption of caffeine. All three have helped me get passed one of the worst creative slumps I have ever experienced. A continuous downward spiral since September that had left me feeling uninspired, exhausted and unable to think.

In the past I have learned that forcing myself to create just leads to more frustration. If the inspiration is not there, the desire to glue things down is not there, then I need to let it be. And when that little voice is telling me to pick up my Prismacolor pencils and sketchbook, don't ignore it. Sketch away, scribble, color in. Just get it out. So that is just what I did.

In the end, I created some pieces that may lead to a series of paintings in the near future. I have not made a mosaic in quite some time, but I know that soon enough I will get back into them. Sometimes a break and a switch in mediums is all I need to begin to create on a daily basis again.

2008-12-07T20:32:00.001-05:00

★★★ DECEMBER SPECIALS ★★★

~All magnet sets ship FREE anywhere in the USA! Choose from any of the sets in the sections below.
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=46014&section_id=5058573
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=46014&section_id=5239934

~ A FREE GIFT will be included with all orders totaling $50.00 or more. ($50 total prior to shipping cost)*** Holiday shipping *** All orders will be promptly packed and shipped within 1-2 business days.

Brighten Up Your Day

2008-11-30T13:47:00.002-05:00

www.GeminiMoonMosaics.etsy.com

✱✦✱✦✱✦✱ＷＥＥＫＥＮＤＳＰＥＣＩＡＬ✱✦✱✦✱✦✱

2008-11-29T00:42:00.003-05:00

Stop by and start your Holiday shopping!

http://www.GeminiMoonMosaics.etsy.com

A FREE Set of 3 Vintage Bottle Cap Magnets will be included with ALL orders totaling $25.00 or more. ($25 total prior to shipping cost) Valid 11/28~11/30.

Peace, Love & Tile
Jeanine

Unique Art You Can Wear

2008-10-27T21:01:00.003-04:00

Throughout the years I have often been asked by customers at craft shows and via email if my collage art magnets could be turned into pendants. Since the glue I use to secure the ceramic magnet to the back of my collage art magnets is super strong, there is no chance of removing it once it has cured.

It has taken me a few years and a few trial runs, but I have since began designing mini works of art to be worn as pendants and pin backs. I am quite happy with this first piece "Lady Victoria" pictured above. I have several more pendants in the works and a handful more that will be listed in my Etsy shop as November heads our way.

Be sure to visit my Etsy shop in the coming weeks to see more of these pendants and pin backs. I will be offering them in gift sets for the holidays among many other unique art pieces.

Peace Now

2008-10-17T00:07:00.006-04:00

Last week I was invited to join a brand new Etsy street team called Etsy PeaceNiks. They are a group of like minded artists looking to reach out to people through their art and work to promote peace. After reading their goals and looking at the beautiful work they all create, I did not hesitate to accept the invite and join in their efforts to come together and encourage peace.

"We believe that peace isn't just about the absence of war , but about living in a just society. We will as a group reach out with our art and our crafts to help get people thinking ,,,,to encourage peace for all." ~ From the Etsy PeaceNiks mission statement

I would like to thank Holly, http://www.hillbillyartist.etsy.com/ and Rose, http://walkinthewoodsllc.etsy.com/ for contacting me. It is so nice to be part of such a positive group of artists.

Please visit us at

http://etsypeaceniks.blogspot.com/

http://www.flickr.com/groups/etsypeaceniks/

CT Etsy Street Team Presents

2008-10-03T11:04:00.003-04:00

Saturday, October 4th I will be at the Shake N' Bake Indie Craft Fair at the Heirloom Arts Theater in Danbury, CT from noon-4pm. I will have an assortment of my collage art magnets, mini mosaic mirrors and other great gift ideas for the holidays. Stop by if you are in the area for some fresh baked goodies, handmade indie crafts, vintage stuff and music. Good times!

New Work

2008-09-17T19:55:00.003-04:00

Now available in my Etsy shop.

The Important Things in Life

2008-09-11T19:24:00.002-04:00

Today, on this 7th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy, I was sitting outside on my lunch break in the sun. It was one of the first calm and quiet moments I have had to myself in a while. The weather was perfect. The sky a stunning shade of blue and the breeze just enough to let you know that fall is sitting and waiting right around the corner.

As I sat in silence I thought about all of the amazing things I have in my life. All of the things I am thankful for and grateful for. A list that is miles long. My life is good.

Just as we learned 7 years ago today~ life as we know it can change in an instant. Choose your battles, concentrate on the present, what you have, what you cherish, and live every minute being the best possible person you can be.

Upcoming Show

2008-08-29T11:07:00.002-04:00

Peace & Love

2008-08-12T19:08:00.002-04:00

Just listed today in my Etsy shop. Look for it in my new section called "Peace Love & Tile"

Green Things

2008-07-29T16:53:00.007-04:00

The summer has been keeping me pretty busy. Picnics, a trip to Florida, Yankee games and of course I am knee deep in china shards and glue ~ creating new pieces for my fall shows, the gallery and my Etsy shop too. July is just about over. I have managed to blog about pretty much nothing this month. And today I am just going to share a few pictures taken over the summer so far. All pictures of things that are green. Above is one my hostas.

These fern are growing wild at the edge of the woods in my backyard. I love the color and the lace like design of the leaves.

This mirror is called Bamboo. So many shades of green! And accents of vintage jewelry, glass gems and a mixed assortment of tile.

Hope you are having a great summer too!

New Work

2008-07-16T21:56:00.003-04:00

Just listed in my Etsy shop. ReTRo goodness.