Throwback Thursday- Blooming...

  I recently created a hand-lettered design directly on the surface of a glass vase using some embossing tools (Ranger Perfect Pens and gold embossing powder and heat gun) I've been trying out. I was only testing out the process, but think it turned out pretty well (pictured below) and will continue to design custom lettered items to add to my shop. The quote is one I used to repeat after first moving away from Dover, Delaware to Durham and feeling unsure of where to go next. It really helped me for a period to stay positive. There is also a timelapse video of the process below.

"Bloom where you are planted."

  Thinking of the years that I've spent in Durham so far, I can't help but to feel thankful for my family's and friends' support, and all of the artists and opportunities I've come across. I am still blooming and I especially think of the amount of growth I experienced while helping with the Durham Civil Rights History Mural Project, which was completed last summer. Throwing it back to share photos from the dedication of the space and art exhibition that followed!

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  We celebrated the completion of the mural, Durham's history, and our blackness on the beautiful morning of Saturday, October 17th last year; and the festivities carried on into a warm afternoon. Months later, Rodrigo Dorfman (DCRHMP Multimedia Director) and Brenda Miller-Holmes (DCRHMP Director) pushed the idea of showcasing artwork inspired by the mural process by the participating muralists in a show at the Carrack Modern Art in downtown Durham. As a result, in February of this year we joined forces to hold a two-week exhibition along with a sequence of community events, such as artist talk, forum, receptions and parties. This was my first time in awhile participating in a group show, and it was the perfect way to gain momentum for more shows and artwork to come. Take a look at the slideshow below for photos and more details, and thanks for reading!