CircleCraft blogs

Circle Craft Partners with Eco Fashion Week

ccblogger — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 20:29:25 +0000

On April 24th, the last day of ECF, the Circle Craft Collective will be sponsoring its own fashion run-way show. Displaying their wares in this collective will be Circle Craft members, Vanessa T. Cunningham, Sans Soucie and Fiveleft and long time market exhibitor Adhesif. This is a great opportunity to see beautiful fashion items that are both ethical and local.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Vanessa T Cunningham

Cunningham is a third generation weaver living in Horseshoe Bay. She graduated from Capilano University in North Vancouver in 2007 with a diploma in Textile Arts. She was a Circle Craft scholarship recipient upon her graduation.

Her work is an exploration of color and texture through a traditional tabby weaving technique produced on her Oma’s Glimakra Loom and then post-felted to achieve natural tailoring. Each piece is named and detailed with scrabble letters as a permanent signature.

Vanessa saves every thrum or scrap from the weaving of her wraps and scarves; she then spins the woollen thrums into yarn for weaving, and sews the non-wool thrums into Eleganza scarves.

Katherine Soucie

Katherine is an emerging Canadian clothing and textile artist/designer, based in Vancouver. She has designed for film, television, dance and theatre and has her own clothing line, Sans Soucie, which is exhibited and sold through fine boutiques and galleries throughout Canada, US and Japan.

Katherine works towards developing new ways to modernize traditional textile techniques. Her experimentation over the last three years with non traditional materials and eco friendly textile processes has resulted in an extensive body of work for which she has received a number of design awards.

Fiveleft

Fiveleft leather marries sleek modernism with rugged saddlery tradition by combining our distinct finishes with innovative sculptural designs. All of the production is done by hand in our Vancouver, B.C. studio. Many of the tools we use are over sixty years old. Fiveleft uses only vegetable tanned leather. This type of leather is derived from ancient tanning process of soaking cowhids in vegetable tannis (tree bark). Today the hides are cured with mimosa extract, and unlke chrome tanned leather, this process uses very little toxic chemicals and leaves the leather rigid and ready to be 'tooled'. The leather is sourced from a family run tannery in the U.K.

Adhesif

Melissa Ferreira is the Vancouver designer behind Adhesif Clothing Co. Originally born in Montreal, Melissa was influenced by her mother who worked in garment production for large scale clothing distributors in that city.

Since teaching herself how to sew at a young age and experimenting with textiles most of her life, Melissa is proud to say she is primarily self-taught.

Working as a buyer in the vintage clothing industry has inspired Melissa to create garments with vintage fabrics because of the amazing quality and special characteristics. There is a double advantage to using sustainable materials; not only do they reduce waste, but they add distinctive personality to all of her eye-catching, one of a kind creations. Special, hand rendered details are often added to her designs like appliqué, cowboy stitching, hand dying techniques and silk screening. All garments are made locally in Vancouver, BC.

"Blowing Forty - The Art of Glass at Circle Craft" at Circle Craft Gallery in April/May

ccblogger — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 16:31:48 +0000

Circle Craft Cooperative Association, in celebration of their 40th anniversary, is pleased to present a group glass exhibition, “Blowing Forty – The Art of Glass at Circle Craft,” in their gallery in the Net Loft on Granville Island, April 12 – May 28, 2013. The exhibit features: Joanne Andrighetti, Jan Benda, Jeff Burnette, Wayne Harjula, Lisa Samphire, Miyuki Shinkai, Minori Takagi, and Naoko Takenouchi.

Joanne Andrighetti

Joanne Andrighetti is a graduate of Sheridan College’s 3-year Crafts and Design program and has been working in glass for 30 years. She has operated a glassblowing and flameworking studio, exhibited her work across North America, and been a teaching assistant at the Pilchuck Glass School. She currently teaches glassblowing and flameworking and is a founding member of Terminal City Glass Co-op in Vancouver, BC.

Joanne is a member of Circle Craft.

Jan Benda

Jan Benda has a small glassblowing studio located on the beautiful shores of the Sunshine Coast, BC. The studio was opened in 1987, at which time Jan was already a master in his profession. Jan graduated in 1969 from the Technical Glass Blowing Institute in the Czech Republic with a Journeyman Diploma. For the next 15 years, he worked to improve his skill with the best glass masters in the Czech Republic.

In his studio, Jan, assisted by Krystyna, combines his technical skills with his artistic creativity to develop and perfect his own style: glass that is simple, elegant, and contemporary. Each piece is his original design, and is created free hand, without a mould. All pieces are signed by Jan and carefully inspected to ensure high quality workmanship.

Jan is a member of Circle Craft. Learn more about Jan Benda at: www.krystynaglass.com

Jeff Burnette

Jeff Burnette is known for many forms in glass, including wine goblets; “Raygunz,” a personal tribute to his interest in science fiction; and, he also works with the effects of light with glass.

Jeff Burnette has been working in hot glass since 1979. Jeff studied at Sheridan College of Art and Design in Ontario and Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State. He has also participated in numerous advanced glass workshops, where he has worked with some of the top hot glass artists in the world. In 1992 he was invited to France by CIRVA, where he first met and worked with Lino Tagliapietra.

Jeff has become one of the leading goblet makers in Canada, and has won numerous awards for his outstanding talents. He has had several solo shows, which have introduced his work to numerous BC residents, designers, collectors, architects, corporations, and more. After years of hard work, study, and travel, Jeff opened a studio, Joe Blow Glassworks in the East Side of Vancouver. Now, Jeff is working in a new studio called “Inner Sanctum,” part of Hungry Thumbs Studio at 233 Main St.

Jeff is a member of Circle Craft.

Wayne Harjula

Born in 1963 in Hitchin, England, Wayne began making glass at Birmingham Polytechnic in 1983. He graduated from Farnham College of Art in 1987 with a BA (Honours) in Glass & Design and went on to travel to Scandinavia and Europe to learn more about running a successful glass studio. In 1992 he established his first successful glass studio in England. Having never forgotten his influences at art school, he wishes to continue to re-invent the glass blowing process, which includes finding creative ways to recycle bottle glass into high-end art pieces.

Wayne, a member of Circle Craft, is co-owner of Mellon Glass Studio based on the Sunshine Coast. More info can be found at: www.mellonglass.ca

Lisa Samphire

Lisa Samphire, Canadian borne began her glassblowing career in 1985. Since that time she has produced a diverse body of work, which includes private and public, sculptural and functional pieces. Over the years, she has been recognized and applauded for her glasswork through the receipt of various awards, scholarships, teaching appointments and commissions.

Blowing glass is a very physical and exciting process, which Lisa enjoys each time she tackles a new piece. She loves trying to resolve the aesthetic and technical challenges that the medium of glass presents. She maintains a freshness and liveliness to her work by constantly exploring its properties and following her intuition and curiosity. She utilizes different techniques in her works and has continued to look to others as she pursues her career.

She has taken many courses through the years at The Pilchuk School and The Corning Glass Museum. She has also taught many courses at Red Deer College, spoken at several engagements, and has been the feature of various publications and exhibitions. In 2008, Lisa had four pieces acquisitioned by the Federal Government of Canada for it’s Visual Arts Collection. And in 2009, she had two works selected to represent Canada at the Cheongju International Craft Biennale in South Korea. In 2011, Lisa was selected to assist in the process of choosing the Canada Council Grant recipients for Fine Craft.

Lisa Samphire, a member of Circle Craft, resides in Victoria. Learn more about Lisa Samphire at: www.samphireglass.ca

Miyuki Shinkai

Miyuki Shinkai’s artistic focus has been in glass and mixed media installation, and pieces that are wall collages made of glass parts.

Miyuki says, "Through my visual art practice, I have been searching for unity. I believe that we are all together as one, while respecting many diverse cultural traditions and the uniqueness of individuality. Freedom of thoughts and creativity promotes innovation. I am interested in a challenge to evolve my artist practice by integrating viewers, dialogue in creation, and space."

Miyuki was born in Japan and came to Vancouver in 1995 after completing an MSA (Master’s Degree in Social Administration) and a minor in glassblowing at Georgia Southwestern State University. Miyuki has worked at the Chihuly Studio and attended Pilchuck Glass School. Since 1996, she has partnered with Wayne Harjula in running Mellon Glass Studio on the Sunshine Coast. (formerly Hot Glass Studio in Vancouver, 1996-2003; since 2003, Miyuki and Wayne have been based on the Sunshine Coast as Mellon Glass Studio)

Miyuki has received many awards including a Canada Council for the Arts grant, a BC Arts Council grant, as well as a Vancouver Foundation grant. She has exhibited her work widely in North America, including the Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery in Ontario, the Northwest Museum of Art in Washington, and The Japanese Canadian National Museum in Burnaby.

Miyuki is a member of Circle Craft. Learn more about Miyuki Shinkai at: www.mellonglass.ca

Minori Takagi

Minori Takagi first came across Japanese glass beads (called Tombodama) at a local gallery in her hometown of Shizuoka, Japan in 1997. She was so impressed by their subtle color and delicate design that she immediately took her first bead-making class at a local studio. Using colorful Japanese glass rods, she learned the basics of Tombodama. Her initial interest in making Tombodama has developed into a life-long passion for the art form.

It is believed Tombodama originated in Mesopotamia about 3,500 years ago. In ancient times, they were made by craftsman for members of royal families and aristocrats and were regarded as precious accessories. The techniques used in making the beads were brought to Japan via the Silk Road during the Nara period (710 – 794). Today, Tombodama beads are much sought-after in Japan and are growing in popularity throughout North America.

Minori works over a propane torch to create her glass beads. Her designs are influenced by her Japanese heritage and the beauty of her surroundings in the Pacific Northwest.

Learn more about Minori Takagi at: www.mylampwork.com

Naoko Takenouchi

Naoko Takenouchi completed a four-year degree course in design and glassblowing at the Tama Art University in Tokyo. She has attended the Plichuck Glass School as a scholarship student in 1993 and 1998. Her work has been included in many international exhibitions and publications. She has received many awards in Canada including the Canada Council for the Arts “mid-career” grant. Takenouchi has been commissioned to make Governor General’s Performing Art’s Awards since 2003.

In the last few years, Naoko has been thinking about her desire to live closer to nature and to be in touch with both her senses and inner voice.

“The migration of birds has given me a certain inspiration. Many species continue to fly several thousands of miles every year in their migration. They have a very precise navigational system that is part of their survival instinct. This journey is both astonishing and mysterious to me.

“Living in an advanced technological and material society for such a long time, I think we have lost contact with these instincts. However, when I think about the creative process, it is about listening to my inner voice and navigating my way through my senses. In this, there is something quite similar to the migration of wild life.”

Learn more about Naoko Takenouchi at: www.glassartcanada.ca/public/artist/Naoko.Takenouchi

“Blowing Forty - The Art of Glass at Circle Craft”
April 12 – May 28, 2013, Circle Craft Gallery, Net Loft on Granville Island (1 - 1666 Johnston Street), Vancouver
Admission: Free; More info: shop@circlecraft.net, 604.669.8021; Open daily 10 am to 7 pm

Long-time member of Circle Craft, glass artist Robert Held, transitions to retirement

ccblogger — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 15:56:39 +0000

March 27, 2013

Robert Held, a member of Circle Craft Cooperative since 1987, is a well-known and respected member of Canada's art glass community. He has worked in glass for 37 years in several different capacities: student, teacher, artist, and as an employer of more than 20 at his studio in Vancouver, where he has produced fine art glass.

Held’s art glass collections range from classic to contemporary. From vases to bowls to hearts to paperweights, his designs are inspired by the work of famous artists such as Monet, Klimt, and Tiffany. Robert’s glasswork has also been chosen for many prestigious awards and collections. His goblets were selected to grace the table of the Governor General and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s collection now houses Robert’s commissioned piece “The Northern Lights” – a stunning glass bowl created with gold & dichroic glass.

Held travelled the creative route from painting, to ceramics, and finally to hot glass. His college and university degrees are in art education with an MFA in ceramics.

He says, "Being physical with color and form is my love. After experimenting with many different media, I discovered glass. My conversion to glass blowing was immediate, and transformational. After the first few hours, I was hopelessly hooked. No going back to ceramics for me. The clarity of the glass, the roar of the furnaces, the heat, and even the constant danger were all factors that influenced my choice of this difficult yet beautiful medium. Penland North Carolina and my teacher, Mark Pieser, were inspirational ."

“It was the colors!! And the “Dance”! And the immediacy!! The excitement, the danger, the heat, the sweat, the brilliance, etc.”

Held (far left) with wife Chris, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,

and former BC Premier Gordon Campbell

Held’s career has included many achievements, which include: Head of the Ceramics Department at Sheridan College - School of Crafts and Design, as well as Head of the Glass Department; Founding member of GAS (Glass Art Society) and Glass Art Society of Canada (GASC); Associate, Head of Glass Department, Alberta College of Art and Design; and, Held was commissioned to make a piece of glass from Canada’s Olympic City – Vancouver, to the Chinese city of Beijing for the 2012 Olympics. These are highlights; there has been much more.

Robert Held became a member of Circle Craft Cooperative “as soon as he could,” after arriving in BC from Calgary. “I’ve been a board member, vice-president, and supporter,” he says.

“Circle Craft Coop has meant many things to me. First, that I had been accepted by my peers to exhibit and sell in the fabulous shop. Second, Circle Craft is one way for me to give back to the crafts community that I so love. Third, as a showcase for fine crafts and crafts people. Fourth, as a voice for the overworked crafts person in the larger arena.”

When asked about future plans, Held says, “I always wanted to retire to something, not from something. I’m not sure, but I think I still have to create beautiful things that people love. “

Handmade and Perfect for Spring!

ccblogger — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 20:10:43 +0000

March 21, 2013

The sun is returning, the days are getting longer, and Easter is just around the bend! Why not celebrate Easter and springtime with something lovely and handmade from Circle Craft? All of the following items are now available in our shop on Granville Island.

Tea pairs perfectly with those tasty sweets you’ll be enjoying with your family over the Easter long weekend. Why not adorn your teapot with this charming tea cozy from Dragonfly Creations? As the warm weather returns, so does the desire to enjoy the great outdoors. A rugged trekking stick from Doug Dodd would be a great companion for those outdoor expeditions. Now that we’re starting to enjoy more hours of sunlight, an attractive sunflower sun catcher from Di-fusions would make a fitting addition to your home!

Looking to brighten up your kitchen for spring? Colourful glasses from Ted Jolda will do the trick! These whimsical teapots by Laurie Rolland will help freshen up your kitchen too! Brightly patterned attire goes hand in hand with springtime and Easter. These pretty scarves from Christine Seigneuret would be perfect to liven up your look for spring.

The Circle Craft Shop is open 7 days week, so be sure to drop by the Net Loft and check out these items and more!

Circle Craft Shop & Gallery | Daily 10 am – 7 pm
1 - 1666 Johnston St., Net Loft Granville Island
tel [604] 669 8021 | shop@circlecraft.net | www.circlecraft.net

"Turning Forty - The Art of Ceramics at Circle Craft" at Circle Craft Gallery in March

ccblogger — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:58:58 +0000

February 20, 2013

Circle Craft Cooperative Association, in celebration of their 40th anniversary, is pleased to present a group ceramics exhibition, “Turning Forty - The Art of Ceramics at Circle Craft,” in their gallery located in the Net Loft on Granville Island, March 1 – April 9, 2013. The exhibit will feature: Judith Burke, Rachelle Chinnery, Mary Fox, Gordon Hutchens, Jeremy Hatch, Laurie Rolland, and Tanis Saxby.

Judith Burke

Judith Burke received a BA in art history and an MA in painting from the University of California, Berkeley. She began studying ceramics in 1957 and has been making pottery professionally since the mid-1970s. Alongside creating functional stoneware, Judith sets aside time to experiment in other areas.

Judith has received numerous awards for her work and has participated in many invitational shows. Her work is part of personal and international collections including the Shepparton Art Gallery in Australia and The World Ceramic Exposition in Korea.

Judith Burke has been a member of Circle Craft Cooperative since 1982. Her studio is in Maple Ridge, BC.

Rachelle Chinnery

Rachelle Chinnery makes large sculptural vessels and a line of hand-carved white porcelain. She has been making ceramic work for over 20 years now, 17 years after she learned how to pot in Japan. Her full-time practice began seven years ago when she moved to Hornby Island, BC.

Her carved work earned her the BC Creative Achievement Award in 2007. This work is in museums in Asia, Australia, and Europe.

Rachelle says, “Apart from all that what I like best about the work I make is how people respond to it at the Farmers Market on Hornby Island, which is one of only three places the public can get my work. I've stopped wholesale altogether. “

Very recently, Rachelle finished her first large installation of sculptural work at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Rachelle Chinnery has been a member of Circle Craft since 2004. More info at: rachellechinnery.ca

Mary Fox

Mary Fox has worked as a professional potter in Canada since 1979. Her innovative creations have established her reputation as a dedicated and exacting craftsperson in her field.

Mary delights in the challenge of creating contemporary works based on classic lines. Beautiful form, exquisite balance, and a sense of contained energy are hallmarks of her work. Fox has received critical acclaim for her works that have been exhibited nationally and internationally in both exhibitions and galleries.

Mary says, “My focus is on expressing the beauty and strength of pure form and then creating unique glazes that will enhance my vessels. For my decorative vessels I have developed glazes that can imbue my work with the look of unearthed antiquities. For my functional ware, I use glazes in a variety of solid colors designed with the user in mind.”

Mary Fox has been a member of Circle Craft Cooperative since 1986. She resides in Ladysmith, BC. More info at: maryfoxpottery.ca

Jeremy Hatch

Jeremy has won many awards for his work and has exhibited around the world, including Canada and the US, as well as China, Japan, and Korea. Jeremy received his BFA from Emily Carr University and his MFA from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University.

In the image to the left, hand-knit coat hangers are saturated with porcelain and fired, burning away the original yarn, becoming a fossilized trace of the original. What remains are fragile mementos of daily rituals and domestic activities. Objects that contain and evoke opposite notions at the same time: function and dysfunction, beauty and ugliness, creation and destruction, remembering and forgetting …

More info at: jeremyhatch.ca

Gordon Hutchens

Gordon Hutchens first became intrigued with pottery at the age of 14 during a visit to Japan, watching potters at work and seeing the revered position of pottery in a culture.

Gordon’s studio is nestled in 19 wooded acres in the secluded north end of Denman Island, BC. For many years, Gordon has operated his extensive studio here while exhibiting across Canada – from Halifax, Montreal, and Toronto to Vancouver and Victoria. He has also had over 25 one-man shows and over 70 group exhibitions across Canada and the US, with three major exhibitions in Japan. Permanent collections include the Bronfman Family's "Claridge Collection" and the Canadian Museum of Civilization.

Gordon's work is well known for the depth and diversity of his glazes and the strength and refinement of his forms. He produces a variety of work from sculptured to functional, and utilizes an extremely broad range of techniques.

He says, “I'm attracted to variable glazes where subtle differences in the action of the flame can make a dramatic difference in the character of the glaze, where fire tells a story. I get excited by the power of heat, the way fire brings about the transformation, the metamorphosis of elements I've combined into something new.”

Gordon received an honours degree in fine arts from the University of Illinois majoring in ceramics (clay and glass blowing).

Gordon has been a member of Circle Craft Cooperative since 1977. More info at: gordonhutchens.com

Laurie Rolland

Laurie Rolland of Sechelt, BC has made her living as a potter since graduating with honours from Sheridan College of Ontario in 1978. She has worked almost exclusively in oxidation and is known for her unique hand-built vessels.

Her work has been recognized nationally through numerous grants and awards. She has exhibited nationally and internationally in juried and invitational exhibitions, winning awards in many of these. Rolland’s work can be seen in 17 published books on ceramics, and is in private, corporate, and public collections around the world. Laurie Rolland was elected to The Royal Canadian Academy of Arts in 2004.

She says, “I make hand-built vessel forms that are inspired by the natural world around me. My work is primarily non-functional and is fired in an electric kiln; the surfaces are highly textured and the colours are organic and earth based.

“Since 1991, I have used the metaphor of the boat (vessel: container/ protector) as representing the human made cultural object. I integrate this with organic ‘grown’ forms or textures that are inspired by the natural world around me. The resulting object is an attempt to symbolically heal the conflict between nature and culture.”

Laurie Rolland was an original founding member of Circle Craft Cooperative in 1973 in Victoria. More info at: laurierolland.com

Tanis Saxby

The photo on the right is called “Skin and Bones.” “This sculpture is an abstract representation of both the sensuality of the skin and the raw decay of bones. The combination of soft unprotected skin and decayed bones attempts to reveal the fragility of the body, human life, and ultimately an elegant beauty in the vulnerability of the human experience,” says Tanis.

Tanis has exhibited across Canada and in France. She has won several awards and scholarships. In 2005, she did an international residency in ceramics, Vallauris, France.

Her education includes the Kootenay School of the Arts in Nelson, BC, an apprenticeship with a carver/stone sculptor on Salt Spring Island, BC, and the University of Victoria.

More info at: tanissaxby.com

“Turning Forty - The Art of Ceramics at Circle Craft,” March 1 – April 9, 2013 | Circle Craft Shop & Gallery
Open Daily 10 am – 7 pm | 1 - 1666 Johnston St., Net Loft Granville Island
tel [604] 669 8021 | shop@circlecraft.net | Admission: FREE
For information about other upcoming gallery exhibitions, visit: www.circlecraft.net

Valentine's gifts lovingly crafted by members of BC's Circle Craft Cooperative

ccblogger — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 20:18:11 +0000

What better present than a handcrafted gift made by one of BC's very own? Circle Craft members reside all over the province, and Vancouverites are extremely lucky to have the work of these members (glass, metal, fibre, leather, jewellery, ceramics, and more) displayed and available for purchase right in our store on Granville Island. (Net Loft)

Choosing a gift for your loved one made by an artist equals a gift that is unique. There is only one like it, just like your sweet!

Here is piece by long-time Circle Craft member, Vesna Yankovic, a Vancouver-based artist who weaves with wire creating fantastic pieces like the one below.

This stunning necklace, available in the Shop, is by Anat Basanta, also a Vancouver-based member of Circle Craft.

It's likely to be chilly for a while yet. Many days to curl up with books and movies. These small mugs by Circle Craft member Bob Bush (Mission, BC) will make the day that much warmer! Perfect for coffee or hot chocolate!

While you're at it, these colourful scarves by Gibsons-based Circle Craft member Terry Bigham will keep you warm and brighten up wintry days.

And cards, a long-standing Valentine's Day tradition. Cards for all our loves -- friends, family, and sweethearts. We have a great supply of hand-crafted special cards in the Shop. These ones are by Circle Craft member Jan MacLeod who works in Vancouver.

This is the final of three Valentine's Day posts highlighting the wonderful work of Circle Craft members in our Shop and Gallery on Granville Island, 1 - 1666 Johnston Street. The Shop is open daily 10-7. Tel: 604.669.8021

Circle Craft Co-operative is a unique BC Artist Cooperative dedicated to providing opportunities for craftspeople to connect with the community. Formed in 1973, Circle Craft has grown to become a major force in the marketing and promotion of quality craft, utilizing a ‘direct from the artist’ approach. Built on a reputation for integrity and quality, both our annual Christmas Market and the shop and gallery on Granville Island are Vancouver traditions for locals and visitors alike, and encompass a wide variety of media and design styles. Circle Craft is self-sustaining and is supported by commission on sales and participation fees. Our 1994 mission statement reflects the aims of our founding members: “to promote the development, recognition and success of members and their work.” We are proud of our achievement in fulfilling our mission: Circle Craft is one of the most successful organizations of its kind in North America. For more information: www.circlecraft.net

Playful and pretty handcrafted items for your Valentine!

ccblogger — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 19:34:55 +0000

In number two of our Valentine's series of blog posts, we feature playful and pretty objets d'art for your valentine, made by members of Circle Craft Cooperative. All of these beautiful pieces and much more are available at the Shop on Granville Island. (Net Loft)

Who doesn't love a teddy bear? Perfect for kids and friends. Check out this cutie on the shelves of Circle Craft's Shop on Granville Island (Net Loft). These lovely snuggly bears are made by Port Coquitlam-based Circle Craft member, Cath Wood.

Planning on perfume for your sweetie? These breathtaking perfume bottles are the perfect accomaniment, so romantic and delicate! They're made my Circle Craft member Ted Jolda who resides in Parksdale. (the gorgeous glass container on the top right is by Circle Craft member Robert Held)

Or these beautiful pink glass hearts by Joanne Andrighetti, a member based in Vancouver.

This fabulous dress by Angelika Werth could be that perfect Valentine's Day gift for one's sweet, or for oneself! Perfect for a fancy party or a wedding! So pretty.

This is the second of three Valentine's Day posts highlighting the wonderful work of Circle Craft members in our Shop and Gallery on Granville Island, 1 - 1666 Johnston Street. The Shop is open daily 10-7. Tel: 604.669.8021

Circle Craft Co-operative is a unique BC Artist Cooperative dedicated to providing opportunities for craftspeople to connect with the community. Formed in 1973, Circle Craft has grown to become a major force in the marketing and promotion of quality craft, utilizing a ‘direct from the artist’ approach. Built on a reputation for integrity and quality, both our annual Christmas Market and the shop and gallery on Granville Island are Vancouver traditions for locals and visitors alike, and encompass a wide variety of media and design styles. Circle Craft is self-sustaining and is supported by commission on sales and participation fees. Our 1994 mission statement reflects the aims of our founding members: “to promote the development, recognition and success of members and their work.” We are proud of our achievement in fulfilling our mission: Circle Craft is one of the most successful organizations of its kind in North America. For more information: www.circlecraft.net

Handmade gifts for Valentine's Day at Circle Craft!

ccblogger — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 20:44:01 +0000

Circle Craft Shop is the perfect destination for heartfelt and "made with heart" gifts for Valentine's Day!

Cozy up with your love with these beautiful handmade wine glasses and decanter by Mellon Glass, Circle Craft members who work out of their studio on the Sunshine Coast:

Despite Valentine warmth, February is a chilly month! These wraps by Circle Craft member Vanessa T. Cunningham are perfect for warming up:

And by member Rudi Diesvelt, beautiful leather products for him (or her). Cozy up by the fire with a lovely leather bound journal!

Or, a beautiful Valentine's art piece for the family to enjoy by Island member Hermann Edler:

This is the first of three Valentine's Day posts highlighting the wonderful work of Circle Craft members in our Shop and Gallery on Granville Island, 1 - 1666 Johnston Street. The Shop is open daily 10-7. Tel: 604.669.8021

Circle Craft Co-operative is a unique BC Artist Cooperative dedicated to providing opportunities for craftspeople to connect with the community. Formed in 1973, Circle Craft has grown to become a major force in the marketing and promotion of quality craft, utilizing a ‘direct from the artist’ approach. Built on a reputation for integrity and quality, both our annual Christmas Market and the shop and gallery on Granville Island are Vancouver traditions for locals and visitors alike, and encompass a wide variety of media and design styles. Circle Craft is self-sustaining and is supported by commission on sales and participation fees. Our 1994 mission statement reflects the aims of our founding members: “to promote the development, recognition and success of members and their work.” We are proud of our achievement in fulfilling our mission: Circle Craft is one of the most successful organizations of its kind in North America. For more information: www.circlecraft.net

2013 Student Scholarships Exhibition at Circle Craft Gallery in February

ccblogger — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:13:34 +0000

January 17, 2013

Circle Craft Cooperative Association is pleased to present their Annual Student Scholarships Exhibition in their Gallery in the Net Loft on Granville Island—February 1-26, 2013—featuring: Christine Ross, Capilano University, Textile Arts Program; James Kemp, Emily Carr University, Ceramics; Elizabeth Glowacki, Kootenay School of the Arts, Metal Program; and, Catherine Hartley, Vancouver Community College, Jewellery Program.

In 2003, Circle Craft initiated a student scholarship award program to support new and upcoming craftspeople. This program is part of Circle Craft’s commitment to community outreach programming, working in partnership with four BC institutions: Emily Carr University, Ceramics; Capilano University, Textile Arts Program; Vancouver Community College, Jewellery Program; and, the Kootenay School of the Arts, Metal Program.

Graduating students from these programs are invited to complete an application to be considered for the award. A selection committee from each department works with Circle Craft to select each year’s recipients. Selection is based on outstanding achievement and intent to pursue the art form professionally or through furthering studies.

James Kemp | Ceramics | Emily Carr University

James Kemp is currently the ceramic artist in residence at the Port Moody Arts Centre where he is working on pieces for his first solo exhibition. He is currently represented by the Leo Koo Gallery in Vancouver and The Art Mur Gallery in Montreal. His sculptures, unconvincing still objects, echo his belief that materials have intelligence and process matters, a desire to disrupt and hold captive one’s affect without being directive.

These sculptures are gaining attention; James just returned from a national student exhibition in Montreal and was nominated for a BMO 1st Artist Award. He has worked as an artist assistant for the Vancouver based figurative sculptor David Robinson and currently works for Liz Magor.

More info can be found at: sculpturejameskemp.weebly.com

Christine Ross | Textile Arts | Capilano University

Complex geometric shapes and molecular structures are a source of inspiration for North Burnaby artist, Christine Ross. Captivated by symmetry and order, she’s drawn to Japanese design techniques, like origami (paper folding) and itajime (fold and clamp resist dyeing). “I try to integrate these qualities into my work and I endeavour to achieve precision in everything I create,” she says.

“My impulse to explore textile arts originated from a short article I read about a textile designer in the April 2008 issue of Vanity Fair. I hadn’t contemplated textile design prior to this and I was really intrigued by the breadth of textiles as an art form. The more I researched into textile art and design, the more excited I was to completely immerse myself in the Textile Arts program at Capilano University. The faculty there facilitated my discovery of the potential of textiles as an ideal medium for my creative expression.”

Christine received a diploma in textile arts (with distinction) from Capilano University.

More info can be found at: www.facebook.com/ChristineRossTextiles

Elizabeth Glowacki | Metal | Kootenay School of the Arts

Elizabeth is an emerging metal artist and recent graduate from Kootenay School of the Arts in Nelson BC. She creates through feeling, inspired to translate the experience of emotion into form. Myth and culture play in the stories told through her work. Elizabeth works in forged steel, cast bronze, and aluminum, creating decorative and functional pieces for the home and garden.

Elizabeth’s work is an exploration of process, materials, and technique in metal sculpture. The beehive sculpture, in the image to the left, utilizes the inflation technique with forged hexagonal punches and walking chisel to repousse the hive and create the crescent moon texture.

Elizabeth has exhibited in Sheppard’s Pie Gallery in Vancouver BC, Touchstones Museum of Art and History in Nelson BC, and her sculptures were discovered nestled amongst the reeds on Jericho Beach during the Vancouver Folk Music Festival.

Elizabeth completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology at SFU in 2008 along with the Undergraduate Semester in Dialogue Program. It was during the Dialogue Program that she first expressed her experience through sculpture.

Catherine Hartley | Jewellery | Vancouver Community College

As a jeweller and metalsmith, Catherine currently works from her studio in a little cabin on Mayne Island. Catherine chose jewellery design as a way to connect her interests in art, design, and craftsmanship. After a year in a fine arts program, she moved on to attend the Jewellery Art & Design program at Vancouver Community College.

Often her work focuses on rough architectural form and volume. She also tends to incorporate details that reflect some part of the process of hand crafting, including sometimes almost hidden ones. For her, the draw of making jewellery and metal goods is in the process itself. From the initial inspiration, to the forming of the idea, to the actual transfer of thought to physical form as raw materials are worked into shape. She is also largely motivated by the sentiment behind jewellery, and the reasons people choose to wear it. Using both modern and traditional metal techniques, she crafts each piece with the intention of making something that can accumulate meaning for the wearer over time.

More info can be found at: www.catherinehartley.com

Student Scholarships Exhibition, Feb 1 -26, 2013 | Circle Craft Shop & Gallery
Daily 10 am – 7 pm | 1 - 1666 Johnston St., Net Loft Granville Island
tel [604] 669 8021 | shop@circlecraft.net | Admission: FREE
For information about other upcoming gallery exhibitions, visit: www.circlecraft.net

Accessorize this Holiday Season!

ccblogger — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:46:52 +0000

December 19, 2012

Whether you’re hunting for that perfect holiday gift, or looking for a special stocking stuffer, the Circle Craft Shop has many wonderful accessories that would be perfect for either!

From hats and scarves to leather bags and jewellery, we have lots of accessories to choose from, including unique winter hats from Lajla Nuhic; leather bags from Lina Cutnam; felted pearl earrings and bracelets from Vanessa Cunningham; and hand-felted fashion hats from Angelika Werth.

Clockwise from left: Lajla Nuhic, Lina Cutnam, Vanessa Cunningham, Angelika Werth

All of these items are now available in our Shop on Granville Island in the Net Loft!

Circle Craft Shop & Gallery | Daily 10 am – 7 pm
1 - 1666 Johnston St., Net Loft Granville Island
tel [604] 669 8021 | shop@circlecraft.net | www.circlecraft.net