an artists studio

the artist (with iPhone) and some of her works.

 detail After AP110314027340 Japan

18” x 18”

gouache on paper

He/she, detail: encaustic on vintage hand tools

He/she, detail: encaustic on vintage hand tools

Remains, detail: house paint on beaver sticks

Bantam, CT

I was so excited to get a peak of the artist, Jessica Jane 's studio. Located in the northwest corner of CT in Litchfield County, at a old switch plate factory. The space is beautiful, and sits right on the main road, with the Bantam river just behind it. Years ago the factory was indeed an electric switch plate factory, and then went into disrepair and decay. The factory now, hosts some retail on the first floor, and above many artists gallery's. A truly funky find in this part of CT. It has that loft-like industrial space feel to it, but instead, of being in Brooklyn, you are in one of the most bucolic settings Connecticut has to offer (win-win).

The studio overlooks the river, with splashes of pink paint (from her latest installation) and a few guitars laying around (for when her husband practices with his band). The bands name was actually inspired from the old factory! Jane received her undergraduate degree in art, and her Masters in Architecture, from Yale. After working in various architectural and design firms for several years, she decided to pause her architectural practice, returning to making art. 

Please take a look at Jessica's work, and view her online portfolio at jes-jane.com, or if you have any questions you can email her at jj@jess-jane.com

spring fever

The northwest corner of CT welcomed spring with 80 degree days, which forced the magnolia and other spring bulbs up early. It was spectacular.

On the coldest monday night (it dipped down to 26 here) I quickly went out to gather what I could for cut flowers. I am happy to say that cold front blew out of here today, and the sun is back out. My bulbs are happily cut and sit in vases around the house.

I've already started a rosemary (which sits in the sun when it's warm out) as well as parsley, basil and zinnia indoors...only another six weeks and I can put them in my new herb/kitchen garden. Hooray.

hello cupcake.

Been having a bit of a sweet tooth lately I guess. Also celebrating a lot of birthdays. Been itching to use these adorable cupcake flags. I love the idea of dessert bars for weddings, with lots of choices. Next time I try to make french macaroons, i'll try some brighter spring flavors, but wanted to start with the basics.
Happy baking.

candid camera: the reception

Many people think wedding photos and what pops into mind are the classically framed photos with the light just right, and the bride striking a pose with a handsome groom by her side. This is all wonderful. But it recently became apparent to me (by a request to see more candid reception photos) that some of my favorite shots  are when they didn't know I was shooting. The father/daughter  son/mother dance, the expression on the face of the couple when their best friend is making a toast, or finally the moments of pure joy during the reception when everyone  kicks off their shoes (literally) and dances. These are the moments I wanted to share. It is always hard to pick and choose what to put on my web site.  I have my own personal favorites, and then I  narrow it down to others tastes as well. I try to switch up my site at least seasonally. Check back and make sure you view some blogs as well. I hope this gives you a glimpse at the joy and (sometimes) tears that take place during the reception, when finally everyone is at ease.

well hello there spring.

The last few days here in CT have been in the 70's, unusual for March. So both myself (and my dogs) have been soaking up every little bit of sunshine that we can. The crocus are blooming, and I am already thinking about what will go in my latest herb garden.

Hello spring, it's nice to see you again.

bright citrus

Was sitting in the  sunny window , when I sliced into my blood orange, and the light hit it just so.  I had to capture the way it tasted, well, in pictures, if I could. It was was delicious. Happy Saturday. 

california dreaming

The final and random shots caught while I was in LA a few weeks back: From the Mission
 (2nd bottom ) to the random rides (very cool bikes on a college campus) to of course, the birds of paradise, and palms. Had a great trip, and can't wait to get back. And lastly, the iconic LAX , Adios for now.