Craft Show Schedule for October 2010

October 2010


Green Road Farmers' Market
October 7th & 14th 2pm - 7pm
South Euclid-Hillcrest United Methodist Church
1534 S. Green Road
South Euclid, OH


Shore Outdoor Farmers' Market
October 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th 2pm - 7pm
Shore Cultural Centre
291 E. 222nd St.
Euclid, OH 44123


Trinity Cleveland Fresh ART
October 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Trinity Cathedral - Prospect Lot
2230 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH


A Goddess Affair
October 2nd 11am - 6pm
Shore Cultural Centre
291 E. 222nd St.
Euclid, OH


Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival
October 2nd & 3rd 10am - 6pm
Rt. 322 & Rt. 528
Huntsburg, OH


Hillcrest Meals On Wheels
October 16th 10am - 4pm
Highland Hts Community Center
5827 Highland Rd.
Highland Hts., OH


The Ladies Auxiliary to VFW Post 387 Holiday Craft Fair
October 23rd 10am - 4pm
VFW Hall
3580 W. 140th
Cleveland, OH


The Make Up Bar
October 24th 3pm - 7pm
Euclid Square Mall (Euclidian Room)
100 Euclid Square Dr.
Euclid, OH


Crafts at the Mansion
October 30th 10am - 4pm
Lakeland Community College (Athletic & Fitness Center)
7700 Clocktower Dr.
Kirtland, OH

Our September 2010 Schedule (Finally)

September 2010


Green Road Farmers' Market
September 16th, 23rd & 30th 2pm - 7pm
South Euclid-Hillcrest United Methodist Church
1534 S. Green Road
South Euclid, OH

Shore Outdoor Farmers' Market
September 17th & 24th 2pm - 7pm
Shore Cultural Centre
291 E. 222nd St.
Euclid, OH 44123

Trinity Cleveland Fresh ART
September 21st & 28th 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Trinity Cathedral - Prospect Lot
2230 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH

Tremont Arts Fest
September 18th 11am - 6pm; 19th 12pm - 5pm
Lincoln Park
1208 Starkweather Ave.
Tremont, OH

Shore Cultural Centre Key to Euclid's Redevelopment

Dear Mayor Cervenik and Euclid City Council Members:

My name is Matthew Orgovan, and I was born and raised in Euclid.  I’m a 1994 graduate of Euclid High School, and participated in many community activities growing up, including Euclid Boys League, Euclid Pony League, Euclid Colt League, the CABA High School World Series, Justin Lanes Youth Bowling League and Holy Cross PSR, as well as many school-sponsored creative activities and organizations, such as Eucuyo (Euclid High School’s literary magazine), Power of the Pen, Euclid High School’s Fall Play, Martin Luther King, Jr., Essay and Poetry Contest, and many others.  Needless to say, as I reflect upon the plethora of creative, athletic and social opportunities I was afforded as a youth, both in school and in the community, I recognize that the infusion of these activities in my daily life greatly helped me develop my leadership skills, made me a well-rounded, culturally aware person and fostered in me an awareness of community, on a large and small scale.

Furthermore, my experiences as the marketing and public relations director for Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School from 2000 to 2009, the City of Euclid’s closest private and/or parochial high school, as well as freelance writing for the Catholic Universe Bulletin, the Collinwood Observer and the Euclid Observer, have kept me keenly aware of what has been going on in Euclid, Collinwood and Northeast Ohio over the last 10 years.  Unfortunately, some personal and economic situations have led me to take up residence in a neighboring community.  However, my parents still reside in Euclid, and my volunteerism and position on the Board of Directors for UpStage Players Children’s Theater Company for the last six years, have allowed me to remain active in the activities of Euclid.

In addition, my personal discovery of painting and art about three or four years ago while volunteering to help the drama program of VASJ, led my fiancée Joanna Longo and I to engage in arts and craft shows during that same general timeframe.  After being approached at various shows by representatives of Northeast Shores Development Corporation, the Shaker Square Area Development Corporation and Director Pietravoia of the City of Euclid to consider either opening up a shop or a studio in their respective neighborhoods, Joanna and I conducted online and physical research in considering these flattering offers.  We ultimately decided on the City of Euclid and Shore Cultural Centre after further discussions about the economic development plans of Euclid with Director Pietravoia and site visits and conversations with Shore’s building manager, Laura Kidder, of Coral Management Company.

In roughly six months of operating Studio 76 at Shore, Joanna and I have been amazed by not only the passion and commitment that has been displayed by our fellow full-time and part-time tenants, but by the cosmetic and collaborative initiatives and improvements engaged in by Coral, Shore volunteers, Shore’s Board and the tenants.  The groundwork and vision have been laid for the continuation of building Shore back up to the cultural, arts and wellness center that the Euclid City Council and Coral have agreed upon for the building’s future.  While we most definitely couldn’t live on Studio 76, we will be nonetheless strongly committed to Shore if given assurance of its future, because we are able to provide classes and contribute to an appreciation for the arts in the community, while also developing our own personal skills and passions, building a community of artists and entrepreneurs who share similar goals, and being able to use and grow a workspace that is conducive to our crafts.

However, in order to see Shore reach its full potential, many pieces of the puzzle must be inserted to realize the economic, social and perceptual stability that a bustling center of activity such as Shore can have on a city that has felt the affects of the recent socioeconomic times this country has battled.

Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner, preeminent researchers, award-winning writers and nationally recognized leaders in the field of leadership, published a document roughly 20 years ago that still has a profound impact on today.  It is entitled “The Leadership Challenge.”  At the heart of this document lies five fundamental practices that leaders should use to not only improve themselves, but also have a lasting influence on all those they inspire.  These practices are: Challenge the Process, Inspire a Shared Vision, Enable Others to Act, Model the Way and Encourage the Heart.

In challenging the process, the City of Euclid and those who are concerned with the sustainable economic and social future of its neighborhoods, must take risks and search for innovative ways to improve itself, not only for the benefit of its citizens, but for the growth and prosperity of Northeast Ohio as a region.  These initiatives have already begun with the Downtown Revitalization Plan, the Lakefront Plan and other economic development plans.  Shore Cultural Centre, in many minds, involves risks, economically and in the eventual impact it could have for the well-being of Euclid residents and residents of surrounding communities.  While these risks are very real, the precedent for a cultural arts center has been set by many communities in Northeast Ohio and across the country.  With dedicated funds, resources and hard-working individuals, Shore can do for Euclid and surrounding communities what the Gordon Arts District has done for the Detroit Shoreway area of Cleveland and the Clifton Arts Center has done for the Cincinnati area.  The Clifton Arts Center is relevant, in that its history very much mirrors the situation that the City of Euclid has with Shore Cultural Centre.

According to www.cliftonculturalarts.org, the Clifton Arts Center marks the geographic center of one of Cincinnati's most treasured and historic communities.  It is located on the site of a school built in 1906, and is the former location of the Resor Academy, built by the citizens of the Village of Clifton in 1870.  After the City of Cincinnati annexed the Village of Clifton in 1896, the owners of the land on which the original Academy was built deeded the land to the city for the purpose of building a new school in furtherance of the original trust, mandating that the land be used “to promote the education of youth of both sexes” and to cultivate “a taste for science, literature and the fine arts.”

The renewal of the Clifton School as the flagship facility for the Clifton Cultural Arts Center now serves as an homage to the progressive character of the visionary benefactors who dedicated the school site to cooperative education in arts and culture more than a century ago.  Today, the Clifton Cultural Arts Center, which was first imagined in 2004 after a series of community engagement meetings that addressed the fate of two key historic buildings – the 1906 Clifton School and the adjacent McDonald Estate Carriage House – both scheduled to fall into disuse in 2008 as a result of imminent initiatives included in the Cincinnati Public Schools Master Plan, is thriving.  A seed was sown – and the Clifton Cultural Arts Center is the outgrowth of that idea: that participation in cultural and artistic activities contributes to more cohesive communities and more successful, more inspired children and adults.  Today, a proactive, dedicated group of citizens have nurtured the potential of that ideal to create a rare and remarkable opportunity: A truly regional Cultural Arts Center encompassing – and preserving – over 57,000 square feet of historically significant space in an incomparable urban campus.  In fact, in 2007, CityBeat of Cincinnati named the Clifton Cultural Arts Center “BEST RE-USE OF AN OLD SCHOOL.”  It stated that, “Clifton Cultural Arts Center will be housed in the old Clifton Elementary School on Clifton Avenue.  Instead of becoming yet another office building with blackboards left hanging to give the place ‘charm,’ the community created a nonprofit organization that will convert and run the new arts facility.”  The precedent of the Clifton Cultural Arts Center proves that an opportunity such as what Shore is and can become can have lasting positive effects on a community and region.

Kouzes and Posner also discuss inspiring a shared vision.  Based on legislation passed by City Council in adopting the concept of the Five Year Strategic Plan that was developed and is now being facilitated by Coral Management Company, this shared vision for Shore Cultural Centre exists.  Included in this vision is the Mission Statement of Shore Cultural Centre, which reads, “To provide transformative, dynamic, and high quality arts, cultural and lifelong learning experiences that build community, enhance quality of life and strengthen Euclid and Northeast Ohio.”  The city’s leaders can now, through their vision, influence and economic means, see this vision through and breathe life into a project that can bring exciting possibilities for the future of Euclid and the region.  Due to the geographic location and accessibility of Euclid, what first and foremost will enhance the quality of life for its citizens, can become another cornerstone for this same growth for the region.

The City of Euclid has the ability to enable others to act.  Collaboration, mutual respect and understanding each other’s mission and expertise will make possible the success of Shore Cultural Centre and its place and influence in the city and region.  Coral Management Company, the Shore Board, tenants and volunteers all must be enabled to continue building for Shore’s growth and sustainability.  This includes a financial commitment by the city for Coral to make immediate improvements, such as a new energy-efficient boiler, other energy and safety enhancements and the hiring of a dedicated development director, all of which will surely more than pay for themselves in the near future.  A committed development person can solicit the needed grant money, corporate and individual support and in-kind donations that Shore needs to be successful…and far exceed the immediate financial support the city is being asked for over the next few years.

The City of Euclid also has the ability to model the way for its own citizens and the region.  Kouzes and Posner point to the prospect of complex change being overwhelming to people, and often leads to a roadblock in the progression of action and goal achievement.  In the case of Shore, this has been evident on many fronts in recent history.  Interim goals and small achievements and commitments that lead to the larger objective of Shore Cultural Centre being the arts, cultural and wellness district that it is capable of, are necessary now.  Verbal, written and financial commitments by the city and those who have a vested interest in Shore and Euclid will show that a vision to a more prosperous Euclid, anchored by a lakefront development plan, economic growth in downtown (which includes the sustainability of Shore) and strategic improvements and growth to other vital pockets of the city, will demonstrate to Euclid residents and the region that the city has great things in store for the future.

Finally, we all know that accomplishing extraordinary things takes hard work.  Kouzes and Posner write that it is essential for leaders to acknowledge the work and contributions of others for common goals to be met.  I applaud the city’s leadership in their resourcefulness and accomplishments in beginning a series of improvements throughout the city that will soon generate economic growth and positive perceptions.  I know that this will continue through dedication and commitment.  In my view, the revitalization of Shore Cultural Centre is one key piece of many that is vital to bringing those just rewards.

Thank you very much for your time.

Best regards,

Matthew Orgovan

Shore Cultural Centre And The Impact On Euclid

Shore Cultural Centre in Euclid is in need of help.  Myself and others have written the city to fight for a worthwhile cause.  I am a firm believer in fighting for what's right and fighting for communities that are in need.  Therefore, I am publicly sharing my letter that I have sent to the Mayor and the City Council in the City of Euclid.  I hope that everyone will read it and help in our valiant efforts to support a city, a building and a community that are worthy and in need.  I have also linked the City of Euclid's website so that if you so choose, can write them in support of Shore Cultural Centre and the positivity and vibrance that has occurred there.

My name is Joanna Longo and my fiancé, Matt Orgovan, and I have a studio at Shore Cultural Centre. I make bath and body products and cosmetics, Matt is an artistic painter and I teach soap making classes. We have been permanent residents of Shore since April of 2010.


We were given the opportunity by three different arts communities to open a store. While we decided to not open a store at this particular time we chose Shore Cultural Centre to be our home. We were impressed with the developments that we were told about occurring in Euclid. I was excited about the new Expo Center, the grant that Lincoln Electric received for a wind turbine, the development of the Lake area and the plans to redevelop the downtown area. Along with that, Shore was suggested as a place that was looking for artists and to build a community of culture. We were both impressed by Laura, the quality of tenants, and what we thought was the support of the city, so we jumped at the chance.

I am originally from Chardon but Euclid has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My doctor, as well as my sons’ doctor is in Euclid and my church is here. I used to come to the Euclid Square Mall all of the time when I was in high school. I moved to Euclid in 1999 and lived here until 2006. My eldest son went to Euclid schools and played in the Euclid Boys League and my youngest attended the Child Development Center on Wilmore. I have performed with Silhouette Productions and the adult troop of UpStage Players at Shore. In fact, if it wasn’t for UpStage and Shore, Matt and I would have never met. I have family and friends that still live in Euclid. Although I don’t currently live in the city, it has a place in my heart.

This brings me to why having a studio at Shore Cultural Centre and the City of Euclid is important to me. Even if you take away the sentimentality that most of the residents of Euclid have for the building itself, it is a unique and thriving community. It IS the Arts District for the City of Euclid. It is few and far between to find a building in Northeast Ohio that has so much to offer for arts and culture. It has one of the biggest stages for performances in an auditorium that is second to none. It has glorious rooms with high ceilings and windows for studios and classes, a culinary school, a day care, space for events and ample parking. It has residents inside who care about the well being and safety of others and work hard to ensure that for everyone who visits. It is centrally located in the heart of downtown which makes it easily accessible to the surrounding community as well as others in other communities.

Everyone knows that Euclid is a changing neighborhood socially and economically. From what I can see the socioeconomic levels have even changed in the four short years that I have moved away. Your more affluent residents have, and are moving away, leaving the city with less revenue and residents than it has had in the past. The city has had a recent stint of bad press due to crimes and other issues. As I can recall, some of the only good press the city has received lately has been about Shore. It was in an article on the front page of The News-Herald and a wonderful article on OhioAuthority.Com. Shore has had many events over the past year that has brought in visitors from outside communities that had never heard of Shore or wouldn’t have considered visiting Euclid. These events have ranged from plays, concerts, classes and a craft show called Cirque Imaginaire, which we participated in. Most of the visitors that attended were from the more affluent, artsy areas of the West Side. They marveled at the building itself and the studios, they inquired about spaces to rent and classes that were available that they couldn’t find anywhere else. As far as I know, it has even lead to another craft show already being booked for next year.

The arts are important for changing communities. Look what it has done for Waterloo, Gordon Square, Ohio City and Tremont, just to name a few. People flock from all over Northeast Ohio to these areas because they offer different independent stores, galleries, eateries, events, shows and more. Euclid is comprised of big box stores and food chains that can be found anywhere. It has a few local eateries and shops but is it enough to be a draw for people of other communities to come and visit all year round? I understand that Euclid isn’t as financially stable as it used to be, but why would you want to possibly destroy an entity that could be one of your best assets? Shore Cultural Centre has the possibility of being a combination of Willoughby Fine Arts and the Lake Erie Building all in one. Both of these places are some of the best assets to their communities and bring people in from all around.

I can only speak for myself that if Coral isn’t given a long term commitment from the city that I have no intention of staying. I cannot operate on three month or one year terms. I have worked hard to promote Shore and spread the word. Having a future that is unknown is something I cannot do. While I may complain about some of the things I see going on in Euclid, I DO love this city. Although, I would have to go to a community where my efforts, along with the efforts of others are appreciated and the value is recognized.

Please don’t take away the ONLY Arts District that Euclid has.

Thank you,

Joanna Longo

A Dash of Cola and a Dash of Cherry Lemonade

Who doesn't like frosting on the top of their cake?  It just makes it all the better.  A couple of weeks ago I decided to get a little more creative with some of the foody fragrances that I use for the bar soaps that I make.   I knew adding a frosting would be tricky but I didn't realize how tricky it would be.  The timing has to be just right or the frosting won't be whippy or won't adhere to the rest of the soap.  Needless to say, I didn't get it quite right the first time.  I had to go back a partially remelt the loaves and the whipped topping and try again.  The second time around turned out to be splendiferous!!! 

Cola Glycerin Soap with Whipped Frosting

Cherry Lemonade Glycerin Soap with Whipped Frosting

I let the loaves sit overnight and pulled them out the next day to cut them.  The first cuts were glorious!!!  There before me I had a gorgeous, fragrant bar of soap with a light and fluffy topping.  The topping was a little squishy just the way it should be.  I was so happy I squeeled and jumped up and down.

What a pleasant way to end the summer!!  :)

Our Classes & Parties

Melt & Pour Soap Making Classes - Make It & Take It

Classes are available by appointment.
$20 for up to 4 bars of soap.
$15 per person for groups of 5 or more.
Classes will be approx. 2 hours long depending on the number of students.
Call 216-323-5193 for more details or e-mail creativexpressions76@yahoo.com.

Spa Parties
Design your own spa party for you and the girls, either in your home or at our studio. Pamper yourself with handcrafted, yummy bath & body products and mineral makeup. Our products have been compared to BBW, Lush, & Bare Essentials. You and the girls will LOVE it!!

Birthday Parties
Are you looking for a different idea for a kids birthday party? Is Chuckie Cheese year after year getting old? Let us host your party!! You can serve pizza and cake and the kiddies can make their own soap to clean up. It's a win, win!
Call for details about children's parties at 216-323-5193.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ HAPPY CRAFTIVERSARY TO US ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ HAPPY CRAFTIVERSARY TO US ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥ We’re celebrating our 2nd anniversary of making and selling our crafty goodness!! ♥ ♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ We’re celebrating and you should too! During the month of August, we are offering FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $30 or more (shipping excluded). ALL shipping costs will be REFUNDED through PayPal. ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Visit http://www.creativexpressions76.etsy.com/

Specials in our studio and at shows:

Buy 3 items and get the 4th one free (of equal or lesser value).

That goes for ANYTHING!!

Specials on classes:

Buy 2 classes get 1 class free!!

You can have a soap making party for 3 for the price of 2.  w00t!!

These offers are ONLY available during the month of AUGUST, since it's our CRAFTIVERSARY and all! 

You can e-mail creativexpressions76@yahoo.com or call 216-323-5193 for more info or to schedule a class.

Our Scheduled Shows for August 2010

Green Road Farmers' Market
August 12th & 26th 2pm - 7pm
South Euclid-Hillcrest United Methodist Church
1534 S. Green Road
South Euclid, OH


Shore Outdoor Farmers' Market
August 13th & 27th 2pm - 7pm
Shore Cultural Centre
291 E. 222nd St.
Euclid, OH 44123


Trinity Cleveland Fresh ART
August 10th, 24th & 31st 4pm - 7pm
Trinity Cathedral - Prospect Lot
2230 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH


Solon Cleveland Clinic
August 2nd 10am - 3pm
29800 Bainbridge Road
Solon, OH 44139


Madison Old Fashion Days
August 5th - 8th
(6-11pm (Thurs); Noon-11:30pm (Fri);
9:30am-11:30pm (Sat); 9:30am-6:30pm (Sun)

126 West Main Street
Madison, OH 44057


Lake County Fair
August 17th - 22nd Noon - 10pm
Lake County Fairground
1301 Mentor Ave.
Painesville, OH 44077


Cleveland Craft Coalition - Mods Vs. Rockers
August 28th 1pm - 7pm
Franklin between 116th and 117th
Lakewood

Visual arts offer stress relief, creative outlet for adults (News-Herald)

Matt was recently interviewed for an article that was to appear in The News-Herald.  It turns out that the article became a front page story in Saturday's paper.  The article deals with adults and art and different groups in the area that offer different types of art classes.  The City of Euclid has had some unfortunate occurances that have been reported in the news lately.  We are extremely happy to have been included, along with Shore Cultural Centre (which is in Euclid) to be portrayed as a positive aspect in the community.  I would like to give kudos to Tracey Read and Betsy Scott for bringing a bright, positive aspect to a community that in these times, needs it. 
I have copied the article and attached a link to the original for anyone that would care to look at the pictures and video. 

By Tracey Read and Betsy Scott

News-Herald Staff Writers

For years, John Peters of Mentor taught watercolor painting.
A recent illness robbed him of his desire to paint for a time, however.
In order to get enthused again, he signed up for a mixed media class with a former instructor, Dorothy "Dottie" Geisert, at Wildwood Cultural Center in Mentor.
"There's a lot of personal satisfaction when you have a good painting," he said.
From local community arts centers to the county metroparks, such opportunities abound for adults in this area, offering myriad avenues for creative expression as well as ways to soothe the soul, or even make some extra money.

Matt Orgovan, a 34-year-old Mentor resident, has noticed a trend in the arts as a career or hobby becoming more popular — especially among those ages 25 to 45.
Orgovan opened up CreativExpressions76 studio at Shore Cultural Centre in Euclid after losing his health benefits when his marketing director job at a Catholic high school was cut to part time.
He sells canvas art, hand-painted refrigerator magnets and keepsake boxes with a pop culture, rock 'n' roll influence.
His fiancee, Joanna, offers soap-making classes at the studio and makes her own mineral makeup and beauty/hygiene products.
"There seems to be a lot more art galleries popping up and stores that carry local products," Orgovan said.
"I think the economy has something to do with it. People are looking for other ways to support themselves."
Orgovan now has benefits with his new job at a publishing company, but is sticking with the studio as well.
"I have a journalism degree, but I've always been interested in painting and found I really loved it as a hobby," he said. "Three years later, I'm selling paintings at art shows."

Wildwood Cultural Center hosts varied arts shows from painted porcelain to basketry, along with its arts classes, including voice lessons and digital photography.
"We've been here for 30 years and we've got a very active Community Arts Commission, and we're always coming up with new cultural arts programs to offer both adults and youth," said Len Zito, the center's cultural affairs director. "I think Lake County is the hub for cultural arts and Mentor has quite a few activities we offer year-round."

In Chardon, efforts have been under way to create a community arts center offering dance, drama, film and more. The Geauga Lyric Theater Guild is working to raise funds to renovate a building on Water Street across from the theater for the center.
"Although we may not be on the original pace, things seem to be moving in the right direction," Guild President Greg Pribulsky said.
The Guild has a long history of offering ways for adults to participate in community theater, on stage and behind the scenes.
Recently, a stage management class was held for adults, and nontheater classes have expanded with the addition of a colored-pencil drawing class and digital photography.
A registered art therapist recently proposed a class called "vision collage," which would allow adults to express a goal through visual arts.
"With the fast-pace, high-stress lives in which we find ourselves today, involvement in the arts can provide a valuable break," Pribulsky said. "A class in the arts is a wonderful place to leave your worries at the door and immerse yourself in a creative process."

Area park district officials recognize that using art can help visitors make a special connection with the natural world — an important component of Geauga Park District's mission, Naturalist Services Director Diane Valen said.
She runs the Shutterbugs Camera Club, which began in 2006 as an offshoot of a hands-on public program offered to those interested in photography opportunities in the district. Monthly meetings involve about 45 photographers gathering for instructional sessions and friendly critiques.
"Geauga Park District is a strong promoter of both the visual and performing arts," Valen said.
Some examples include a recent community art exhibition featuring several hundred pieces created from recycled materials, hosting bimonthly gallery shows, offering a wide range of art workshops throughout the year — from making cards to ceramic tiles to jewelry — and monthly Tune Traders jam sessions that bring together musicians with varied skill and experience levels.
"Our arts programs highlight the natural world as a subject, source of inspiration and setting while encouraging a greater sensitivity, understanding, appreciation and caring for the world around us," Valen said.

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, director of education at The Fine Arts Association in Willoughby, said visual arts classes continue to be popular despite the economy, especially in the winter and early spring.
To better accommodate busy adults with ever-increasing responsibilities, the association tries to make it as easy as possible for everyone to enjoy the arts — whether it be portrait painting or calligraphy.
"As possible, Fine Arts aligns adult programming with children's art programming, allowing adults and their children to participate in the arts at the same time," Fleming-Gifford said.
Maureen Jeffery, 33, of Mentor, has been taking ceramics for two years at Fine Arts.
"It's a lot of fun; the teacher's great," she said. "I always wanted to learn how to throw on the wheel. The process is very relaxing. I like to have that kind of creative outlet, even though I'm not very good at it."

Lessons In Buying Handmade

I've been thinking about compiling a list for quite a while for customers who go to craft shows or to festivals about some rules for buying handmade directly from the manufacturer.  I like to call crafters manufacturers because that is what we are.  Quite a few of the crafters at shows are their own boss.  They manufacture and market their own product in many ways, either at shows, online or selling to stores.  They are the creator from the birth of the concept, through production, marketing, sales, customer service and yes, sometimes even returns.  Some of us work 16 hour days producing and marketing our own product.  Most of us don't necessarily do it for the money (even though money doesn't hurt).  Most of us do it for the love of our craft.  It's our passion.  It makes our world go round.  We do it because we love to create!!
We have probably done over a hundred shows since we have started our little business and have come in contact with thousands of people.  We have talked to hundreds of other manufacturers and have found several "pet peeves" that almost all of us have in common.  This is a list of how you should treat a crafter at a show (even if you're not interested in their product).

1. When a crafter says "hi", say "hi" back.  We're friendly and sometimes bored at shows.  We don't necessarily want to sell you something.
2. Look us in the eye when we say "hi".  We don't have the plague.
3. When we say "hi" don't say "I'm just looking".  Good...because we said "hi", not "Are you going to buy something?".
4. Ask us how we make stuff and what our inspiration is.  We love telling people about what we do.
5. We make what we make because we love it.  PLEASE don't scoff at it.  It's hard putting your heart on the line and we're not a fortune 500 company who's publicly traded. We have feelings.
6. Don't say "I can do that".  We know you can.  BUT.... are you really going to take the time to learn to do it right, spend money on displays, spend $100's of dollar on materials & show costs and get rejected by tons of customers?  I don't think so.
7. We really DON'T want to hear how you just went to a big box store and just spent $100 on something similar. 
8. We really DON'T want to hear how the local dollar store has something similar for $2.00.  HELLO!!  It was made in China!!  Our materials cost more than that.
9. Don't complain about our prices.  We pay expensive table costs and insurance and not to mention we have families to feed and bills to pay.
10. Did I mention don't tell us "I can make that" or "It costs THAT much?! or "I just bought a ton of that at Wal-Mart"?  Well....I know I already said those but I just thought I'd mention it again.

So that is a little list to help you when buying at craft shows.  Sometimes we're like little kids.  We love praise and to have our egos stroked.  Buying from the person who makes the item that you bought is a completely different entity that buying from a chain store.  It's more personal, and we expect to be treated how we treat you.  :)

Buy Local Week July 3rd - 10th

What does it take for you to buy local?  It's better for the environment, it helps your local economy and it supports small businesses.  We challenge you to buy local.  WKYC knows the importance and so should you!  During this week think about your community and how your dollar can effect it.

Cirque Imaginaire Hits Shore Cultural Centre

We LOVE Indie Arts!!  Now, one of the coolest shows to have been created is coming right to our front door!  Cirque Imaginaire - Travelling Art Show and Gallery has chosen Shore Cultural Centre as their location for their second show.  We went to the Sachsenheim Showcase on the Westside in March and were amazed at the quality of vendors, bands, and customers that were there.  We were in awe of Erin Carek and how she was able to combine all of the wonderous people together at the same event in a nondiscript place.  Anyway, we're are proud to announce that we are going to be a part of the Shore Showcase at Shore Cultural Centre in Euclid.  Our studio is at Shore and it's one of the coolest things to happen in the city!!  We hope you will join us.  All of our paintings, magnets, cosmetics and other bath and body items will be on display for purchase.  We will also have our studio open for you to tour!

Scheduled Show Update For Month Of July

Our Scheduled Shows


July 2010
Green Road Farmers' Market
July 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd 2pm - 7pm
South Euclid-Hillcrest United Methodist Church
1534 S. Green Road
South Euclid, OH

Shore Outdoor Farmers' Market
July 2nd, 9th, 23rd 2pm - 7pm
Shore Cultural Centre
291 E. 222nd St.
Euclid, OH 44123

Trinity Cleveland Fresh ART
July 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th 4pm - 7pm
Trinity Cathedral - Prospect Lot
2230 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH

Cirque Imaginaire
July 10th 5pm - 9pm
Shore Cultural Centre
291 E. 222nd St.
Euclid, OH 44123

Cleveland Craft Coalition - True Colors Exposed
July 17th Noon - 5pm
River Colors Studio / Blackbird Baking Company
1387 Sloane Avenue
Lakewood

Westlake Historical Society Craft Show
July 18th 10am - 5pm
Clague House Museum
1371 Clague Rd.
Westlake

Waterloo 7
July 24th Noon - whenever
35005 Chardon Rd
Willoughby Hills

Monarch Center Art Fair
July 25th 10am - 5pm
Monarch School
22001 Fairmount Blvd.
Shaker Heights

Eastlake Home Days
July 29th 5pm - 11pm; 30th 3pm - 11pm; 31st 1pm - 11pm;
Aug 1st 1pm - 10pm
Lakeshore Blvd & Erie Rd.
Eastlake, OH

Ripples In the Water Happen, Dag Nabbit!

Ripples in the water are inevitable. If you're like me, you are often caught up in a never-ending search for stability and contentedness. You may make decisions that get you a few steps closer...marriage, job stability, a mortgage, a dog or a cat...yet, life inevitably decides to test you. These "tests" can sometimes slap you in the face, or they can slowly materialize like pesky dust particles on the blades of a ceiling fan. 

I often just wish that just for a short amount of time that all will be fine. My relationship is at its peak. My family is healthy. The kids are behaving. The bills are paid. The cars run fine. I feel rested and energized. SLAP!! That's just a stinkin' fantasy, and as a mid-30s-ish adult, I should know by now that life "ain't like that!"

So, what to do when a rodent chews through your engine harness, your soon-to-be mother-in-law's declining health has landed her in the hospital, your family income has been halved, others in your family are struggling...and the world seems to be falling apart one oil-laden bird, one suicide bombing and one random shooting at a time? Fight. Suck it up. Search for solutions. Do your part to help. Lend support. Lend an ear. Give a hug. Shake a hand. Pray.

I guess my point is that, as an adult, all I can do is go on living my life the best that I can and be the best person I can be. I can't succumb to laziness, apathy, depression...and I sure as h-e-double hockey stick can't fold 'em!

Life is NOT a serene, glassy, ripple-less pond! We can throw rocks and sticks to cause more ripples, or we can let nature create ripples of its own...and learn to love 'em...or at the very least, accept them. Sometimes, they aren't even all that bad to look at!

Matt

Kris Walsh Featured Artist @ Studio 76 For Shore Cultural Centre Open House

We're excited to announce that Kris Walsh is our first featured artist at the studio.  Kris dabbles in different mediums from sweet wreaths, digital art, pop art paintings to recycled game board handbags & wallets.  Her vision will draw you into her world and how she sees it.  Although we don't have any pictures, Kris makes the sweetest upcycled wallets made from cereal boxes, frozen pizza & dinner boxes, beer boxes and  more.  All are hand sewn with an overlay of clear plastic to protect them from the elements.

You can get a preview of some of Kris's work on her Etsy shop www.soartsykris.etsy.com.

During the Shore Cultural Centre Open House on Saturday May 15th 11am - 2pm you will be able to take a tour of the building and our studio.  Ourselves as well as Kris will have handmade goodie goods on display for your purchasing pleasure.

Humbled...

I received an unsolicited offer to write an artist profile for the Collinwood Observer and the Euclid Observer community newspapers. Not only was I surprised by the request, I was completely humbled...and still feel unworthy. However, I realized that it would be a great opportunity for me to tell a little of my story  as a longtime Collinwood-area employee and native Euclidian (and current studio co-owner in Euclid). I also saw it as an opportunity to foster my belief in community, supporting local business owners and building our country back up from the community level up. It's all about supporting each other's efforts, not tearing them down through subversion.

Thank you Betsy Voinovich and John Copic. I look forward to continue writing about others and other happenings in both communities.

For those interested in the profile, here it is: http://www.collinwoodobserver.com/read/2/5/artist-profile-matthew-orgovan

Thanks,
Matt

CreativEd Artisan Classes

Melt & Pour Soap Making Classes - Make It & Take It

Mondays & Wednesdays 10 am - 12 pm & 7 pm - 9 pm  (Classes also available by appt.)

$20 for up to 4 pieces of soap.
Classes will be approx. 2 hours long.

Call 216-323-5193 for more details or e-mail creativexpressions76@yahoo.com.
www.facebook.com/creativexpressions76


Spa Parties

Design your own spa party for you and the girls, either in your home or at our studio.  Pamper yourself with handcrafted, yummy bath & body products and mineral makeup.

Call 216-323-5193 or e-mail creativexpressions76@yahoo.com for a quote.




Studio 76
291 E. 222nd St. #145
Euclid, OH 44123
Inside Shore Cultural Centre

EUCLID’S SHORE CULTURAL CENTRE INVITES COMMUNITY TO OPEN HOUSE

We are tremendously excited to be participating in this wonderful event.  This is our first official Open House so our studio will be completely set up for your sniffing and shopping pleasure!!

Residents of Euclid and its surrounding communities are invited to visit the city’s historic Shore Cultural Centre on May 15, 2010, for an Open House to celebrate Shore’s “comeback” as a destination for arts, culture, entertainment and education.

From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., patrons will have the opportunity to experience the following:

Artist/Artisan Exhibits • Fun Entertainment • Refreshments • Face Painting • Tours of the Building • Meet Shore’s Resident Artists, Musicians, Teachers/Instructors, Culinary Students and Other Tenants • See a Euclid Fire Truck • Visit With a Euclid Police K-9 Dog • Dine From a Limited Menu Offered by the Euclid Culinary School (one of Shore’s full-time tenants) • Talk With Shore’s Management, Board Members and Volunteers.

Following the conclusion of the Open House, Shore Cultural Centre will feature a very special Music Recital in the building’s famed auditorium, home to the Euclid Symphony Orchestra, and often considered one of the best acoustical auditoriums in the country. The recital will feature performances by a number of Shore’s instrumental students and their instructors, as well as a dance recital from long-time tenant Lakeshore Dance. This event, as well as the entire Open House, is free to the public.

Under the leadership of building manager Laura Kidder from Coral Management Company and her staff, Shore Cultural Centre has made many improvements over the course of the last year. Most notably, the company drafted a Five Year Strategic Plan for Shore that provides not only a management, financial, capital, programming and marketing blueprint for the future, but a re-branding and community-centric approach that is backed by comprehensive research and the input of many local stakeholders.

In fact, on April 5, 2010, a resolution was passed unanimously by Euclid City Council to approve and accept the plan to guide future decisions related to the management, operation, governance, leasing, programming, maintenance and capital improvements to Shore Cultural Centre during the five year plan period. In a written statement, Euclid Mayor Bill Cervenik noted, “Through Coral’s leadership and hard work, the Shore building is performing better financially, and looks better than it has in years. Coral’s work at Shore has been very successful and we look forward to expanding our public-private partnership with them.”

Shore Cultural Centre’s Mission Statement is, “To provide transformative, dynamic, and high quality arts, cultural, and lifelong learning experiences that build community, enhance quality of life, and strengthen Euclid and Northeast Ohio.”

Work Hard to Fulfill Your Dreams

An anonymous person once said, "Some people dream of success...while others wake up and work hard at it."


We believe that the times have mandated all of us to reach deep down inside ourselves and unearth that treasure of ideas and hard work that has been lying dormant for so long. Sometimes, working a full-time job just doesn't cut it...monetarily or to make one's soul feel complete and content. 


Some of us volunteer. Some of us work with our hands. Some of us create. Some of us expand our minds. Some of us exercise. Some of us teach others. Some of us are the students. Some of us lead families. And...some of us do many of these things.


Imagine if we all came home with the motivation to do something more? What a wonderful world it would be. Fulfilling your dreams takes time. It takes hard work and sacrifice. It may even take some extra money. Why not go for it? Even if you don't meet your ultimate goal, wouldn't the effort and the lessons learned along the way be worth it? How many truly successful people never failed? How many didn't work hard? Why pursue something if you're not going to give your best effort? We have just one life, kids!


So...help someone...make something...learn something...teach someone...make mistakes...learn from them...love what you do...this world can rise out of this foggy funk. It starts with you!


How about that? That last line even rhymed!

Studio 76 is ALIIIIIIIIVE!!!!!!!

Many of you know that we have been exploring various sites to open up either a studio or a storefront..or a combo of the two. This mission began last summer as we were approached by representatives of a number of community development officials from local neighborhoods, including the Collinwood, Euclid and Larchmere areas about considering a space...something that had previously crossed our minds, but seemed off in the distant future. However, this interest got our minds working and we became increasingly excited about the prospects.

After many months of contemplation, research, conversations and soul-searching, we were able to work out a mutually beneficial contract with Shore Cultural Centre in Euclid for what we consider the perfect space for what we want to do.

Shore has been under the management of Coral Company for a year now, and has literally been given a new "lease on life." Coral has made the building self-sufficient, has made many infrastructure and cosmetic improvements, has recruited a number of talented full-time tenants and has begun to get the word out about all of the great offerings that Euclid residents and Northeast Ohioans can benefit from.

In addition to us, Shore now boasts a culinary school, yoga instruction studio, video production company, adult theatre troupe, and many others who are full-time tenants. In addition, Shore is home to many different arts, culture and athletic classes, including: pottery, music, painting, dance, exercise, acting, guitar, piano, tutoring, college classes, sports, computers, keyboarding...and more!

As new tenants of Shore, our goal is to transform our space into a working studio where we will be able to commence production on all of our bath and body products, soaps, mineral make-up items, and hand painted magnets, keepsakes and other works of art. Eventually, we plan to provide classes of our own in the areas of soap making, painting, etc., with the hope of bringing in some of our ultra-talented friends and fellow artisans to pass along their vast knowledge in classes as well. Down the road, we also plan to turn a portion of Studio 76 into a small retail outlet where patrons can purchase our handcrafted items.

Right now, we are feverishly painting and prepping Studio 76 so that we can soon begin moving in our supplies, materials and workspace furniture. Below are a couple of photos of the outside of our space, as well as some informational/promotional pieces we generated. Enjoy!

UpStage Players Youth Theater Company to Present Aladdin, Jr. in Late-March

UpStage Players, our favorite Cleveland-area non-profit, will be producing their annual musical in a couple of weeks. We have a special place in our hearts for UpStage...they brought us together! We encourage everyone to come out and ENJOY THE SHOW! Here's the news release for the event:

CLEVELAND, Ohio—Don’t miss your chance to witness the spring musical performances of one of Northeast Ohio’s hardest working children’s theater companies, UpStage Players.  From March 26th through March 28th, the group will be producing and performing Aladdin, Jr., where many all-time favorite characters come to life in this stage adaptation of the Disney hit.

UpStage Players’ opening performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 26th at the Slovenian Workmen’s Home (15335 Waterloo Road; Cleveland), their permanent performance residence.  The group’s second show will commence on Saturday, March 27th, also at 7:30 p.m.  Their final performance of the spring will begin at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 28th.

Advanced tickets/reserved seats are $5 each.  Admission is $6 each if purchased during the week prior to the show or at the door (these are general admission seats).  To order or inquire about advanced tickets, e-mail upstageplayers@gmail.com.

Aladdin, Jr. features the popular characters Aladdin, Jasmine and the Genie.  This heartfelt and funny show is filled with magic, mayhem and the wonderful vocal and acting flair of some of Northeast Ohio’s most talented children.  The musical also showcases a tuneful, Academy award-winning score, with songs including “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me.”

Upstage Players is a non-profit professional children's theater group run by an all-volunteer staff in Cleveland, Ohio.  The organization was founded in 1995 with 30 children and a vision to create love and respect for the arts.  They have evolved into a strong group that uses theater as a vehicle to teach leadership, creativity and responsibility to nearly three times as many children today.  Although the UpStage family has grown tremendously over the years, their no-cut policy remains unchanged. 

The children of UpStage Players come from varied backgrounds and neighborhoods, yet share the same drive to optimize their potential.  They hail from a variety of communities, including: Cleveland, Cleveland Heights, Bratenahl, Euclid, Eastlake, Lakewood, Mayfield, Mentor, Richmond Heights, Willoughby, Concord and Willowick.  In addition, the diverse cast/crew of UpStage Players is headed by an unpaid staff and supported by an army of volunteers dedicated to transforming everyday kids into accomplished artists.

To kick-off a new awareness and fundraising initiative for UpStage Players, the group sponsored the successful UpStage Artisan Alley, a fresh, new indie craft show that took place on February 13th.  Many different artisans displayed their talents for members of the community to purchase, while some of the cast members performed for patrons and vendors.  Plans for a second UpStage Artisan Alley fundraiser are being generated.

For additional information about UpStage Players, or to download a printable ticket order form for Aladdin, Jr., visit www.upstageplayers.com.

Cleveland Craft Coalition @ Bela Dubby This Saturday

If you live in the Cleveland area I'm sure you've heard of the most recent addition in the handmade movement. The Cleveland Craft Coalition is a group of local artists and crafters that are holding shows once a month at Bela Dubby in Lakewood in order to sell their handmade wares.  From what I understand, there will be a rotation in vendors each month.  You can look forward to seeing (and buying) something new every time. 

The Coalition's first show was in February just in time for Valentine's Day.  While we weren't able attend the February show we are definately setting time aside to go check it out this Saturday.  We wish them much success in spreading the joys of handmade. 
You can become a Facebook fan of The Cleveland Craft Coalition or check them out on MySpace @ www.myspace.com/clevelandcraftcoalition.  Either way make sure you get out Saturday to check them out.

Bela Dubby
13321 Madison Ave.
Lakewood, OH  44107
Noon - 4PM

Our Product Video

How Lucky We've Been!!

We have been working our tushies to the bone (I wish) since we have opened up our Etsy shop.  This probably wouldn't have ever happened if it weren't for Janiece from JBird's Garden & Brooke from Jukebox ART.  I knew there was a lot of work involved in getting things going but I didn't realize it was THIS MUCH WORK.  WOW!! We started it on January 31st and put on a few items and did some research.  After we finished organizing and completing UpStage Artisan Alley we dove in head first.

There's been fanning, posting, reposting, posting some more, promoting, listing, more listing, taking pics, fixing pics, organizing, learning and lots and lots and lots of reading and studying.  We've been doing all of this while working full time jobs, "taking care of 2 boys" and trying to get some sleep (but not very much).

So yesterday I'm doing our Etsy thing on the computer wondering if all of the work that we're putting into it will be worth it or all for not.  I go off to do some other stuff and was probably away from internet love for about 40 minutes when lo and behold.....A SALE!!!  WHAT?!  You heard me, a sale.  A TREASURY? WHAT?! You heard me, a treasury.  In that short amount of time we were listed in a treasury "Yikes! Stripes!" and had a sale.  Our first glorious sale.  I was squeeling like a little girl.  Needless to say the package was ready in less than half an hour.

So before I go to bed I check Etsy again when lo and behold.....A SALE!!! WHAT?! You heard me, a sale. A SECOND ONE!!!  Woot! Woot!  We got that one ready to ship in 15 minutes. One duckie bath set sold, one U2 magnet sold.  Now I'm usually really good about checking our Creative e-mail but I missed a couple yesterday.

I was dying to know where all of these people were coming from so I checked Google this morning when I woke up.  Tons of hits from e-mail referral.  Man someone must really love us and have a lot of friends to send this too.  Wait, our e-mail! I go back and look at the Etsy e-mail that was sent out.  OUR DUCKIES!!  Holy sugar snap Batman!!!  Our duckies were included in the The Storque "Etsy Finds Decor:  Family Affair!!"

How exciting!!

I am so totally addicted.  We love making and creating....and want to share it with everyone.  So Forbes,  if Cleveland is so miserable then why are we so happy?  Great things CAN & DO come out of Cleveland! 

Our First Blog Feature

We're so excited to be featured on our first blog as a new Etsy seller!!  Please check out MHaynes2009 on her Esty site and her blog.  She has beautiful jewelry making supplies as well a greeting cards.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/MHaynes2009

UpStage Artisan Alley

As almost everyone knows by now, our friends at UpStage asked us back in November to organize their craft show this year. Of course we jumped at the chance to help besides, we'd been talking about doing so for quite a while. We've been wanting to do a rock n' roll indie craft show. How better to showcase how we think a craft show should be and for a good cause. We have had quite a bit of inspiration to make it happen. First of all, all of the grandma craft shows where no one buys our stuff 'cause their all over the age of 80 and not interested (We don't have doilies). Oddmall & Bazaar Bizarre Cleveland. They are the two most rockin' Indie shows in the area. There is talent there like you've never seen before.
We are hoping that we can be even just a fraction as cool as the two previously mentioned shows. Let me tell you, organizing and getting press for a craft show is hard work. It's hard to make people care about the cause that the show is for and to get them excited. Well, luckily some people in the press cared as much as we do. We got write ups in The News-Herald, Scene Magazine, Cool Cleveland, The Collinwood Observer, and people have been blogging & tweeting about it.
My only worry at this point is that customers show....I'm on the verge of a nervous breakdown today. I think I'll be virtually worthless at work obsessing about setting up tonight, getting vendors prepped, and getting a good crowd. So if you know me and see me today be gentle.
Say a prayer for everyone involved and wish us all luck!! As they say in the theater "Break A Leg!".

Cleveland Jewish News > Archives > Arts > Visual > Artist, 91, proves you are never too old to achieve success

Matt and I stopped into Waterloo 7 tonight to see Jerry Schmidt. So many wonderful thing happened while we were there. Jerry told us about an opening that he's having on Friday Feb 12 featuring Hy Snell. I saw a preview of it today. It was so completely moving and touching that my eyes teared up. This is the article that is in the Cleveland Jewish News featuring Hy & Jerry. Look for an article this Sunday in the Plain Dealer. If you have a chance stop by and check out Waterloo 7. If you don't have a chance, you should clear your schedule and make some time.

Artist, 91, proves you are never too old to achieve success
Click image to enlarge
Fragments of recycled metals are incorporated into many of Snell’s sculptures, soon to be displayed at local galleries.


By ARLENE FINE
Senior Staff Reporter
Published: Friday, January 29, 2010 1:09 AM EST
At age 91, artist and sculptor Hy Snell is an overnight sensation.

The former Jupiter, Fla., resident moved to Stone Gardens in mid-December. Before he had officially settled in, he found himself thrust into the spotlight when local artists discovered his lifelong collection of sculptures and paintings. Two separate exhibits in February will honor his work.

What makes the story even more remarkable is that Snell, who continues to paint, is almost sightless.

“This is so amazing,” says the Bronx, N.Y., native who spent his professional life as a department store display artist. “No one has ever paid this much attention to my work before, and suddenly it seems the world is taking notice.”

Within days of Snell’s arrival at his assisted living home, artist Jenna Fournier, a Stone Gardens employee, alerted renowned metal sculptor Jerry Schmidt about Snell’s work. Once Schmidt walked into Snell’s art-filled apartment and saw rows of exquisite sculptures and a series of vibrant oil paintings featuring swirls of colors, he “knew I had stumbled upon genius,” Schmidt says. “Here was this humble, elderly self-taught artist whose work had been largely unrecognized. I feel incredibly lucky to have uncovered this treasured artisan and to be able to share his work with a large, appreciative audience.”
Schmidt, who owns The Waterloo 7 Gallery in Collinwood, is launching a one-man exhibit of Snell’s work starting Feb. 12. Included will be Snell’s detailed, sculpted menorah, abstract figures, and powerful horse sculptures.

“I usually display several artists at a time,” says Schmidt. “But Hy Snell deserves a show of his own, and I am honored to represent him in my gallery.”

Fournier, who along with artist Kristin Olsen is opening The O Gallery at LaPláce in Beachwood, is including several of Snell’s sculptures as part of their opening show on Feb. 6.

Despite his visual impairment, large clean canvases stacked in Snell’s apartment are testament to the artist’s drive to paint. “Even though I can’t see the canvas clearly, I know what the colors, shapes and designs look like in my head,” he says. “Like Jackson Pollock, I swirl paint onto the canvas in a thoughtful design. When I am painting, I feel such elation. Painting is a great escape for me.”

But it is his sculptures that show Snell’s greatest talent, he says. “I used to go to junkyards in New York and gather interesting fragments for my work. Then I soldered them together into an expressive whole. My inspiration comes from the world around me.”

“I feel incredibly

lucky to have

uncovered this

treasured artisan.”

Jerry Schmidt, sculptorSnell’s daughter, Solon resident Amy Kintslinger, is delighted that her father’s new-found fame has helped his Stone Gardens transition. “My father lived in Florida for 25 years, and moving away from warm weather, his friends and daily routine has been very hard for him,” she says. “So this interest in his art has been good. Although he made a celebrated menorah for Temple Beth Am in Jupiter, his talent has not been fully recognized anywhere before.”

But it’s not just Snell’s artistic ability that delights Stone Gardens’ activity staff and residents. They are also impressed with his “zest for life,” says activities director Sarah Taub. “Hy’s energy, sense of humor, and ease on the dance floor make him very popular here,” she says.

“I had a wonderful time at our New Year’s Eve party; I was asking all the women if I could sign their dance card,” Snell adds with a smile. “Who thought at this time in my life I would be so popular?”

afine@cjn.org

WHAT: Exhibits of Hy Snell’s work

WHEN & WHERE: Sat., Feb. 6, from 5-9 at The O Gallery at LaPláce in Beachwood. Fri., Feb. 12, from 5-9 at Waterloo 7 Gallery at 16006 Waterloo Road

CONTACT: sculptor1121@yahoo.com