CREATE RETREAT: Summing up Fun!

Creative Buzz at CREATE In Somerset, NJ

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend an awesome art retreat called CREATE, in Somerset NJ.  It was my very first time teaching at this Interweave venue.  I was blown away by all the support and friendly faces all willing to lend a hand.  The workshop rooms were just right with plenty of space and windows, and water stations in each hall.

Ready to meet and greet were the marvelous Maggie  Reinholtz and fabulous Jenn Mason.  It was terrific to finally meet the faces to go with the names of that exciting CREATE team. I really don't know how those girlz do all that they do.  Many roles must be juggled, making others' dreams come true.

 This year I taught 4 workshops...awesome hinged glass bottle vignettes, super shotgun shell necklace and rings, and little enameled heart journals to wear around your neck.  Here are a few pictures of the projects from the week.

my teaching sample

 In between all the teaching and supply lugging, late night dinners, and early breakfasts, it was also nice to see a few familiar faces.  In between clean up and set up I was happy to talk with Seth Apter.  We had never officially met, so this was a chance to get to know each other a little bit better, in between the packing and unpacking!

Other meet ups included seeing art sister friend Isolina Perez from FIT in NYC.  As well, Tery Favo and Gail Vanderster-Zwang were two gals I was glad to get to talk with during the week.  Gail was in the enameled journal pendants class and a few weeks ago had won one of my tiaras in an auction to benefit the Oklahoma residents, organized on FB by Heather Ales!

......But wait!   I don't want to forget about the Artist Faire night!  SO many folks, students and non, flocked to find treasures.  I loved meeting everyone at my booth and of course, doing business and showing off my creations.

Part of my table was dedicated to future workshop events.  I had samples of the little book necklaces I will be teaching along with Jean Van Brederode at Beadfest in Philly this August and sample tiaras for workshops being taught at Art Is You in Stamford, CT. 

  Check out Nidia Negron from CHA (Craft and Hobby Association) who was wearing one of those tiaras, and Dea Fischer and Tiffany Teske who also joined in the princess fun.

 

 By the end of the evening, I finally had the chance to get around the room myself and make my one purchase.  Jodi Ohl's beautiful painting was across the room and in eye's sight the entire evening.  I loved it because it reminded me of my little enameled heart journals.  Lives here now. Thank you talented art sister, Jodi Ohl!

Such a wonderful week in Somerset, NJ.  I chose to end my time spent teaching and vending by treating  myself with a riveting class with friend Gail Crossman Moore.  Gail is an amazing enamel artist.  Loved creating with her!  Check out my locket.....