Blackberry Artists

Roses are red ... and not suitable for advance purchase?

2012-01-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

felted flower pin by Caroline Flak

Well, not these ones.

If you'd like to be prepared for Valentine's Day this year and flatter your honey with a beautiful red rose this year, why not check out our selection of floral alternatives in the gift shop?

framed rose by Del Holbrook

These roses won't need watering, or keeping in the cool, or even pre-ordering (though we do advise getting down here ASAP in case someone else gets here first).

ceramics by Jacq Sheridan

Roses - the ultimate "I love you" (unless you're a "nothing but chocolate will do" kind of gal - just sayin').

Wordless Wednesday: love is (still) in the air

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

blood red wire-wrapped pendant on handknit Viking weave
chain by Luci Gimenes

Getting smoochy in the gift shop!

2012-01-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

devoted heron couple by Cathy Rycroft

Hard on the heels of Christmas and New Year - Valentine's Day! It's when couples need no excuse to get even closer than ever, unless the furnace has broken down again. It's a day of smooch, sloppy kisses, suspension of hostilities, and, if you're the mum of an elementary school kid, an awful lot of Disney-branded card-and-candy packages to get signed!

adorable frog couple by Tom Reid

Named after 14 martyred 'rebels of the state' in ancient Rome, February 14th is the day to celebrate romantic love. It's the day when over-consumption of chocolate is positively encouraged, and the notion of passion is tied in with commercial purchases.

the couple that swims together, stays together - platter by Dan Severance

So, if you want to show your romantic interest how much they mean to you, why not visit the gift shop and up your commercial purchasing quotient from our shelves.

Nothing says "I love you" more than a handcrafted love token from a local artist.

xoxo

together by Del Holbrook

Wordless Wednesday: love (is in the air)

2012-01-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

etched glass hummingbird, an important Haida symbol of love
and beauty, by Ingrid Davitt

Critter Adoption Post: Searching

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

In once of those beautiful almost-coincidences Valerie Gilbert's art card settled under Vicki Allesia's haunting picture of a dog awaiting rescue from the local shelter.

It's quite a timely reminder that about this time every year, the novelty of a new puppy or household pet is wearing off once the daily responsibility of exercise, feeding and cleaning sets in, and everyone's back at work.

Please - don't gift pets. Think carefully before you buy - that cute puppy or kitten will grow quite a bit and not look so cute within a few months.

Are you really ready for the lifelong commitment that owning a pet means?

Any doubts, don't do it, please.

Wordless Wednesday: Reflecting on the year

2012-01-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

"Meow?" by Elizabeth Wallace

At City Hall in January 2012

2012-01-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

The whole co-operative is on show at City Hall this month! It's a great opportunity to see the breadth of work represented by the society.

Next time you're paying a parking fine, business licence or visiting the library, why not take the stairs to the mezzanine level up to the council office for a look.

As always, items are for sale through the gift shop. Please phone to arrange a viewing.

Wordless Wednesday: Under Construction!

2012-01-04T11:42:00.000-08:00

The gift shop re-opens (re-stocked!) on Thursday :)

Please note: hours during January and February are reduced to 11.30am to 4pm, Thursday to Sunday (Sunday opens at 12 noon).

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-01T00:30:00.000-08:00

painting on wood by Cathy Rycroft

Wishing you and yours all the best for 2012!

The gift shop will re-open Thursday, January 5th.

Christmas Greetings!

2011-12-25T10:48:00.001-08:00

it's in the detail, originally uploaded by Blackberry Artists.

A very merry Christmas to all our readers and customers. Many thanks for your support over the last year - we wish you all the best for 2012.

blog posts will resume at New Year

On the twelfth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-22T15:07:00.000-08:00

(can you feel the tension mounting?)

... my true love (yes, i still love him, even though he spends every spare minute shopping at the gift shop) gave to me,

Twelve glassy magnets (not sure if the fridge door is big enough but they'll make awesome stocking stuffers for the kids),

Eleven finely woven mufflers (a matching one for every outfit, whee!),

Ten by three (which makes thirty - go on, count them) expertly applied lines of paint in a very pleasing arrangement plus a light house,

Nine sparkling glass stars (i think they're snowflakes but i hate to disagree openly with my true love at this stage in the festivities),

Eight jolly vintage buttons (i've picked my favourite and the rest are for the christmas dinner napkins),

Seven steamin' stompin' haulin' vroomin' road trucks (guaranteeing a quiet afternoon with the nephews),

Six upstanding and tranquil-looking fence posts (new year's resolution - hike more!),

Five wooden urns (they're vases)!

Four dotty spotty cups (would make great wine beakers),

Three orcas swimming on by (ah, summer holidays),

A cute penguin couple (awwww!),

and that origami peace crane still hanging out peacefully in the fir tree.

Now that's Christmas!

PS: we're open tomorrow, 10am till 2pm for last minute gifting!

On the eleventh day of Christmas ...

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

handwoven scarves by Beryl Hickinbottom

... my true love gave to me

(the end is in sight)

Eleven finely woven scarves,

Ten by three truly immaculately and artistically rendered lines of paint,

Nine sparkling glass stars,

Eight jolly vintage buttons,

Seven stompin' haulin' road trucks,

Six artistically upstanding fence posts,

Five wooden inlaid urns!

Four spotty dotty drinking vessels,

Three orcas on the go,

A cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

On the tenth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

painting by Vicki Allesia

... my true love gave to me (almost there),

An artistic selection of ten lines of paint, times three,

Nine twinkling glass stars,

Eight vintage buttons,

Seven stompin' roadtrucks,

Six upstanding (and beautifully rendered) fenceposts,

Five wooden urns!

Four dotty spotty cups,

Three orcas splashing along,

A cue penguin couple (should go as a pair?)

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

Wordless Wednesday: the last macro moment of the year

2011-12-21T06:08:00.000-08:00

Yes - the last macro moment of the year, and a more wordful Wednesday than usual.

Our Christmas Marketplace closes tomorrow at 5pm so don't delay.

The blog is taking a break over the festive season (because she won't be able to reach the keyboard on account of all the turkey she's eaten).

Stay tuned for the New Year, and thanks for visiting :)

On the ninth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-20T14:43:00.000-08:00

glass star snowflake by Margret Billings

... my true love gave to me (still shopping)

Nine glass stars a-twinkling,

Eight jolly vintage buttons,

Seven stompin' road trucks,

Six upstanding fence posts,

Five wooden urns (or vases)(for dried flowers only)!

Four dotty spotty cups,

Three orcas swimming,

A cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

On the eighth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-19T13:36:00.000-08:00

buttons by Sarah Ronald

... my true love gave to me (tho' I keep telling him to quit and let me visit the gift shop for a change)

Eight vintage buttons,

Seven stompin' road trucks,

Six upstanding fence posts,

Five wooden urns!

Four dotty, spotty cups,

Three orcas swimming,

A cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

On the seventh day of Christmas ...

2011-12-18T13:32:00.000-08:00

wooden toy trucks by Del Holbrook

... my true love gave to me (yes, we've seen him a lot in the shop lately!)

Seven stomping roadtrucks,

Six upstanding fence posts,

Five wooden urns!

Four dotty, spotty cups,

Three orcas swimming,

A cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

On the sixth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

artwork by Valerie Simons

... my true love gave to me,

six upstanding fence posts,

five wooden urns!

Four spotty cups,

Three orcas swimming,

A cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

Santa Claus is coming to town (very soon)

2011-12-17T05:51:00.000-08:00

wall plaque by Del Holbrook

Very soon indeed!

Don't panic - if you haven't got that gift or card sorted, we're open until 5pm on December 22nd for all your gift-buying needs (including the gift bags and tags).

On the fifth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

wooden urns and vases by Joe Martin

... my true love gave to me,

five wooden urns!

Four spotty cups,

three orcas swimming,

a cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

Quirky and (almost) unmailable gifts

2011-12-16T11:31:00.001-08:00

the bigger picture: christmas marketplace 2011, originally uploaded by Blackberry Artists.

I'm not saying that our larger pieces of art are totally unshippable, but it's certainly easier to hand them over in person.

Our Christmas Marketplace in the 3D gallery at Port Moody Arts Centre is a perfect opportunity each year to view the larger works of art our artists would love you to see (and then take home to love and cherish). Our tiny gift shop with its limited wall space and hanging room is not capable of handling any more than a couple of pieces of framed art per artist, so very often you don't see the truly magnificent large-scale gems which truly represent their skills.

Please come in and visit the 3D gallery for a special viewing of the canvases, wooden intarsia and amazing animal portraits on wood we have for you. And remember - our artists are very happy to accept commissions through the gift shop year round, so why not come in to get a few ideas for yourself once the gift-buying season is over?

On the fourth day of Christmas ...

2011-12-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

spotty tea service by Dan Severance

... my true love gave to me,

four spotty cups,

three swimming orcas,

a cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

On the third day of Christmas ...

2011-12-14T13:21:00.000-08:00

by artist, Cathy Rycroft

... my true love gave to me,

three orcas swimming,

a cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

Wordless Wednesday: (you guessed it) macro moment

2011-12-14T06:03:00.000-08:00

detail from work by Joan Marr

On the second day of Christmas ...

2011-12-13T13:15:00.000-08:00

penguins carved by Tom Reid

... my true love gave to me,

a cute penguin couple,

and an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

On the first day of Christmas ...

2011-12-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

peace crane tree ornament by Yolanda Cheung

... my true love gave to me,

an origami peace crane in a fir tree.

Oh, the weather outside ain't so frightful

2011-12-11T09:44:00.001-08:00

the bigger picture: christmas marketplace 2011, originally uploaded by Blackberry Artists.

So, a walk through Port Moody would be delightful today.
Why not call in at the gift shop (opens noon till 4pm on Sundays) and thaw those fingers with a little Christmas shopping from our amazing artists?

Fragility

2011-12-10T10:21:00.001-08:00

the bigger picture: christmas marketplace 2011, originally uploaded by Blackberry Artists.

Closer to Christmas is the time to think about gifts for your close-at-hand nearest and dearest.
Think - ceramics, architectural accents and heavier items which are difficult to ship. All of these works will make a statement, both in the home and in the heart of the person receiving the gift.
Most of our artists have business cards which can be tucked into that special gift. Just ask while your purchase is being wrapped; it'll be a lovely reminder to your gift recipient that their present has been chosen and made with care and attention.

the bigger picture: christmas marketplace 2011

2011-12-09T22:13:00.001-08:00

the bigger picture: christmas marketplace 2011, originally uploaded by Blackberry Artists.

artist dan severance's vase from Tuesday's post in full, glorious detail

Christmas Marketplace means more space in the Blackberry Gift Shop, which means our artists can bring in their larger pieces of work. This is the best time of year to find that perfect focal decoration as a stunning centrepiece in your home.
Modern houses these days often require bold modern statements to complete a room. Why not make that bold statement twice; once for your abode, and another in supporting local artisans?
We'd love to see you at the arts centre :)

Wordless Wednesday: macro moment (yes, another one)

2011-12-07T05:57:00.000-08:00

detail from work by Amanda Maxwell

Blackberry Gift Shop on The Express

2011-12-06T20:19:00.001-08:00

... and here we are (around minute 4)!

A big thank you to Shaw TV, and to the artists who took part in our moment of fame :)

The big picture

2011-12-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

detail from big, heavyweight vase by Dan Severance
(sculptural heavyweight woodturning from Joe Martin in background)

Now that the last cost-effective mailing dates for Christmas 2011 are vanishing under a haze of packing tape and gift ribbons, we at the Blackberry Gift Shop think you should be concentrating by now on your nearest nearest and dearest. You know, the family members and friends who you can deliver your carefully chosen gift to directly, paw-to-paw so to speak. There are no worries about fitting the magical 2cm slot of doom at the post office. Parcel weights are a mere memory. Let it rip with heavyweight handcrafted goodness from our marketplace!

Check out the slideshow below - specific items and ideas will be previewed over the next couple of weeks (though it might be wise to snap up that cherished gift before someone else gets it first).

Fame at last!

2011-12-05T20:50:00.001-08:00

Vicki Allesia waits for her moment in the spotlight

On Tuesday, the Blackberry Artist's Society played host to Bianca and Rob from Shaw TV's The Express. Bianca interviewed Vicki Allesia and Karen Bagayawa about their work, then filmed the work in the 3D gallery (with some willing customers who happened to be around!)The segment airs on Tuesday, December 6th at 3pm, 6pm and 10pm.

If you don't get Shaw cable then check out their YouTube channel - the video should land there around 5pm on Tuesday.

Artists will be signing autographs .... ;)

Wordless Wednesday: macro moment

2011-11-30T05:28:00.000-08:00

detail from work by Valerie Gilbert

Christmas 101: quirky postable gifts

2011-11-26T05:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, we have quirky gifts which will also ship easily :)

Not everyone is able to just hand the wrapped gift person-to-person, so at Blackberry Gift Shop we like to make things easy for you.

Why not send some cute buttons, a few ceramic fabric fasteners or maybe a glass jewel magnet to your not-nearest and dearest this festive season?

Wordless Wednesday: macro moment

2011-11-23T05:26:00.000-08:00

detail from work by Caroline Flak

Christmas 101: shipping gifts

2011-11-20T05:39:00.000-08:00

Some fortunate souls have their nearest and dearest close to hand, thus avoiding lengthy queuing at the postal outlets or lose/lose fights with sticky tape or parcel string.

For the rest of us, might I suggest some of the smaller and easily packaged gifts you will fund (in abundance) in the gift shop.

We have jewellery.

We have tiny ceramic tasting pots.

We have exquisite felted flowers.

We have luxurious handwoven and handknitted scarves for flat packing.

We have miniature tree ornaments (yes, even for miniature trees!).

... and don't forget our beautiful cards, gift bags and gift tags.

A one-stop gift shop for the globally scattered.

Wordless Wednesday: macro moment

2011-11-16T05:24:00.000-08:00

detail from work by Beryl Hickinbottom

Featured Artist at City Hall: Cathy Rycroft

2011-11-14T21:38:00.001-08:00

This month artist Cathy Rycroft has a great display of her animal portraits in the cases on the staircase landing at City Hall (just pop up the stairs opposite the city hall reception desk).

If you haven't seen her work before (shame on you!) you will be in for a marvellous treat. Cathy captures such vivid expressions on the faces of her subject. As well as painting on traditional surfaces, Cathy is also well known for using cut and polished slabs of stone as her canvas. For explanation, check out the display shelves! but be quick - the pieces are selling fast.

Dreich

2011-11-13T05:13:00.000-08:00

dreich (adjective) - cheerless

Why not come on down to our warm and cosy sitting room at the Port Moody Arts Centre to cheer yourself up on these dreary November days?

Remembrance

2011-11-11T08:33:00.000-08:00

photograph by Sarah Ronald

gift bags by Angela Holbrook

painting by Elizabeth Wallace

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

John McCrae (1872 - 1918)

Wordless Wednesday: Fruits of the Forest

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

woodturning by Joe Martin

Our Christmas Marketplace is now open - the best place in the Tri Cities for gift shopping :)

eye, eye! Draw prize alert

2011-11-08T08:20:00.000-08:00

Another of our fabulous artists has donated a piece of their work as a draw prize during the Christmas Marketplace.

Driftwood sculptor, Pat de Couto, has very generously made this lovely fellow available to you (yes, you). All you need to do is visit the gallery and fill in one of our customer experience forms with your details, signing up to our mailing list, and this natty chap could be hanging on your wall come the new year :)

No-vember

2011-11-07T17:19:00.000-08:00

No sun--no moon!
No morn--no noon!
No dawn--no dusk--no proper time of day--
No sky--no earthly view--
No distance looking blue--

No road--no street--
No "t'other side the way"--
No end to any Row--
No indications where the Crescents go--

No top to any steeple--
No recognitions of familiar people--
No courtesies for showing 'em--
No knowing 'em!

No mail--no post--
No news from any foreign coast--
No park--no ring--no afternoon gentility--
No company--no nobility--

No warmth, no cheerfulness, no healthful ease,
No comfortable feel in any member--
No shade, no shine, no butterflies, no bees,
No fruits, no flowers, no leaves, no birds,
November!

November by Thomas Hood

... to this! Christmas Marketplace opens this evening :)

2011-11-03T11:33:00.000-07:00

Please consider this as your invitation to the 2011 Blackberry Artist's Society Christmas Marketplace Opening Reception, to be held in the Port Moody Arts Centre this evening starting at 6pm. Free entry, refreshments provided, shop till you drop ...

Have you seen what you want to buy yet? It's here ... but not for long ;)

(it's coming into focus now)

2011-11-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

Have you seen what you want to buy yet?
Christmas Marketplace opens tomorrow evening - 6pm to 8pm in the Port Moody Arts Centre, Thursday 3rd November.
Will you get your hands on the goodies before someone else does?

... and this ...

2011-11-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

Have we teased you enough?
Christmas Marketplace opens tomorrow night at 6pm.
Have you seen what you want to buy yet?

... and this ...

2011-11-01T07:50:00.000-07:00

The work for our Christmas Marketplace continues (opening night is Thursday, 3rd November 6-8pm).

Have you see what you want to buy yet?

From this ...

2011-10-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

Our Christmas Marketplace opens this Thursday at 6pm. Can you see what you want to buy?

Just Around the Corner!

2011-10-30T08:48:00.000-07:00

carved bear by Tom Reid, snail on lilypad by Tracy Riddell, woodturning by Joe Martin, intarsia by Del Holbrook

Yes, it's nearly here! Our Christmas Marketplace, the one and only destination in the Tri Cities to buy unique artisan handcrafted gifts, is nearly open. For two months, our gift shop will not only be open seven days per week, but will also be much bigger as we expand into gallery space in the Arts Centre. This means that our artists can bring in many more pieces than they can normally display here. Often this means that the bigger pieces they have been working on finally come on show.
So get on down! We've got everything you need for your gift buying under the one roof, from cards and gift bags to glass art and wall art.
Opening night is Thursday, November 3rd (6-8pm, refreshments provided, free entry).

PS: Don't forget to check the tree for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers ;)

Wordless Wednesday: A Little Drop of Sunshine

2011-10-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

glass art from Margret Billings

Salmon Come Home

2011-10-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

stained glass by Margret Billings

This is the time of year when our brave salmon swim home, making their way up the rushing waters of the local streams. Energetically leaping up waterfalls and dodging hungry bears, these noble fish thrash their way to distantly remembered gravel beds

where they spawn and then die.

cough
Glad I'm not a salmon.

PS: ~~Hyde Creek Hatchery~~ Hoy Creek Hatchery is celebrating these demented creatures on Sunday, 23rd October. Get down to the streams and cheer them on.

October at City Hall (updated)

2011-10-19T21:42:00.001-07:00

OK – this month at City Hall (as you are by now aware, dear reader) are two amazing Blackberry artists with a collaborative exhibition in the display case. Margret Billings is our stained glass artist (and coincidentally coordinates the group displays at City Hall for the society) and Myrta Hayes specialises in the translucent delicacy of porcelain ceramics. She also volunteers extra time for the society; she is our webmaster over at our main website.
Busy ladies indeed, and both have found time to collaborate on some of the pieces on display. Myrta has made the ceramic bases for Margret’s stained glass lamp shades, and the results are truly stunning.
Go see for yourself (and buy before they sell out).

Wordless Wednesday: Macro Moment

2011-10-19T08:36:00.000-07:00

detail from work by James Mah

ooops! an erratum: City Hall Featured Artists Margret Billings and Myrta Hayes

2011-10-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

*blush*
This month's artists featured in the City Hall display case (on the mezzanine level up to the council offices) are Margret Billings and Myrta Hayes. They have a beautiful display of ceramics and stained glass for you to shop early for Christmas from.

A huge thank you to Sarah Ronald for pointing out my mistake and sending me a photograph of the display.

October at City Hall: Joe Martin

2011-10-15T21:19:00.000-07:00

This month, the work of woodturner, Joe Martin, is being exhibited in the display cases at Port Moody City Hall. The shelves are now graced with a stunning selection of his larger sculptural vases and bowls, many delicately inlaid with striking marquetry designs.

Joe became a member of the Blackberry Artist’s Society this year and we’ve been very pleased to see his work on our shelves. He works in a variety of woods, each turned and finished with exceptional skill.

As you can see from the photograph below, the display is stunning. Each piece would make a impressive statement in your home. Don’t take my word for it, next time you’re in City Hall take a walk up the staircase in front of the reception desk and check it out for yourself. All pieces are for sale – either contact the artist for details or phone the gift shop to arrange purchase.

Wordless Wednesday: Macro Moment

2011-10-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

Detail from work by Urszula Petrykowska

Happy Thanksgiving from the Blackberry Artists

2011-10-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hope you've made it safely home.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Post Early for Christmas

2011-10-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

chainmaille flower earrings by Luci Gimenes

dragonfly brooch by Amanda Maxwell,
woven scarf by Beryl Hickinbottom,
ceramics by Dan Severance

It's almost that time of year (what a recurrent phrase this is becoming) when thoughts turn to buying, wrapping and packaging.

Well, at the Blackberry Gift Shop we can help you with all three, and no - it's never too early to start. A quick check of the Canada Post website will indeed tell you that the last date for international surface mail parcels for Christmas is coming in the next two weeks. We can even help you with that too! There are a large number of small, easily shipped items for sale which would make great gifts for far and wide friends and relations.

Don't forget to pick up a card, or maybe select one of our unframed prints for mailing.

earrings by Sandra Ho

October's Featured Artist: Yolanda Cheung

2011-10-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

This month the intricate and delicate work of paper artist, Yolanda Cheung, is featured in the gift shop. There is a lovely display of her paper-cut artwork framed for hanging on your walls, though you will remember her stunning cards from the exhibition earlier this year at City Hall

Yolanda has been in Canada since leaving the UK after completing her studies in Leicester. She has worked as an interior designer and this is readily apparent in some of her other work pairing fabric choices with card designs. You will also know her paper folding work if you have ever purchased one of her folded "secret stars" flowers which each contain a hidden pocket for a tiny gift.

It's Never Too Late ...

2011-09-30T21:42:00.000-07:00

To start to advertise our Christmas Marketplace! Yes, the premier location in the Tri Cities of Port Moody, Coquitlam, and Port Coquitlam to shop for unique handcrafted artisan gifts.
Our Christmas Marketplace opens on November 3rd and then will be open seven days a week up until December 22nd. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 10am to 7pm; Saturday, 11am to 5pm; Sunday, 12 noon to 4pm. Oh, I so want to bounce up and down singing, Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! as an antidote to the rain.

Art 4 U Day in Port Moody

2011-09-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

detail from work by James Mah

As a part of Port Moody's Festival of the Arts, the Blackberry Artists are taking part in Art 4 U Day this Sunday (25th September).

Between 11am and 3pm, the Arts Centre in Port Moody comes alive with shows, art demonstrations, drop-in workshops and entertainment. Blackberry Artists will have a discount sale, (with some real pre-christmas bargains!) alongside three of the member artists giving demonstrations of their work. Why not drop by to see stone carver Tom Reid, printmaker James Mah and jewelry artist Amanda Maxwell at work?

We hope to see you there.

Wordless Wednesday:Macro Moment

2011-09-14T03:18:00.000-07:00

detail from work by Yolanda Cheung

September's Featured Artist: Tom Reid

2011-09-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

During September the work of stone carver, Tom Reid, is featured in the gift shop display. As you can see from the photographs in this post, the display case is filled with a most wonderful menagerie of critters for adoption.

From salmon to dolphins and orcas for your (very large) aquarium, plus horses, swans and and a couple of bears for the landlubbers, there is definitely something pleasing for everyone.

Tom has been carving stone for over 35 years, and works in a variety of materials including soapstone, alabaster and jade. His main works represented in the gallery are inspired by the natural world and he accurately captures exactly the right expression or stance for each animal he carves. Tom also demonstrates his carving techniques at local rock and gem shows around the area so keep an eye out to watch this artist at work.

Wordless Wednesday: Macro Moment

2011-09-07T03:19:00.000-07:00

detail from artwork by Jacqueline Sheridan

September's Artist at City Hall: Joe Martin

2011-09-03T03:37:00.000-07:00

This month's artist exhibiting in the display case on the mezzanine before the council offices is woodturner, Joe Martin.
As always, pieces on display are available for sale - just phone the gift shop (604 931 2008) to arrange payment and collection.

Wordless Wednesday: Macro Moments

2011-08-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

detail for artwork by Vicki Allesia

Wordless Wednesday:Shelf by Shelf

2011-08-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

featuring the work of Dan Severance

The Iceman Cometh!

2011-08-20T03:24:00.000-07:00

carved inukshuk by Tom Reid

I am of course hoping that this is a terribly unseasonal post I'm scheduling for this time of year, though messages from home tell me that so far, summer in Port Moody has been grim.

stained glass snowflake by Margret Billings

If it was indeed high summer, then the iceman would definitely be welcome, bringing cool treats, ice for drinks and even a large block of the stuff for leaning against perhaps.
It seems also a very good but unseasonal thing to talk about our Christmas Marketplace which opens a mere ten weeks or so away at the beginning of November. Start making your gift shopping lists - we'll have it all in stock for you.

Wordless Wednesday: Shelf by Shelf (the wall edition)

2011-08-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

featuring work by Sarah Ronald and Tracy Riddell

August's Display at City Hall

2011-08-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

This month, the display at City Hall (up the stairs opposite the reception desk, on your way up to the council offices) is graced with works by weaver, Beryl Hickinbottom, and new jewelry artist, Lucilena Gimenes. I would love to be able to include pictures of their display in this post but sadly (?) the blog's official photographer is on holiday this month.
Beryl is a weaver of local notability and repute. Her fine scarves are much coveted items year round, but especially at the Blackberry Artists' Christmas Marketplace (opening this year at the beginning of November at Port Moody Arts Centre). Her intricate weaves make excellent gifts year round.
Luci's work features intricate sterling silver chainmailling and beadwork jewelry. Her graceful designs will also be available in the Christmas Marketplace this year, as well as in the gift shop.
All items in the display cases are for sale (just telephone the gift shop 604 931 2008 to arrange collection) but you will need to visit City Hall to see the show.

Wordless Wednesday: Macro Moment

2011-08-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

photographic detail from work by Tracy Riddell

Feature Artist - Del Holbrook - August 2011

2011-08-06T13:40:00.000-07:00

Feature Artist - Del Holbrook, a photo by cruisin couple on Flickr.

MAGNIFICENT PORT MOODY

Del Holbrook's display represents the delightful elements of Port Moody that make it such a magnificent place to live.
The majesty of the Great Blue Heron sitting along the shoreline with the powerful sailboat gracefully Heading Home across the inlet, guided by the far away Lighthouse's welcome light.
The graceful Swan calmly swimming in the clear blue waters listening attentively to the Robin joyfully chirping from its nest as a Teddy Bear patiently fishes for dinner.
The brave Persian Cat eagerly awaits a petting hand undeterred by the young Puppy gnawing on a shoe in the corner of the room as the Woodworker's Clock rhythmically ticks in the background, unaware that a Brown Bear and Cub are marchng through the tall grass of the back garden.
The Sunflower represents the abundance of the land while the Lion's roar and the Angel's peacfulness highlight the immense contrasts available within the Port Moody area.

Wordless Wednesday: Shelf by Shelf

2011-08-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

ceramic work by artist, Myrta Hayes

Wordless Wednesday: I Hope This Is Unseasonal

2011-07-27T17:07:00.000-07:00

by printmaker, James Mah

No apologies for showcasing this lovely print once more (it's a fave!)

Macro Moment: Beadiful!

2011-07-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

woven delight

Let's go on a summer treasure hunt through the gift shop. Sorry - no prizes, but can you find where this macro shot was taken?
No clues, except to give credit to the artist involved (Lucilena Gimenes).

Wordless Wednesday: Shelf by Shelf

2011-07-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

woodturning by Joe Martin, painting by Valerie Simons

New Format

2011-07-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

a plethora, nay, an abundance of artwork for you to enjoy

Just a heads up as we rush headlong into the summer, wiping the sunscreen from every available surface and shaking sand from the doormat (you don't have a small child in the house? how can that be possible?).

You, dear reader, may notice that posts will be shorter here (see above, I'm wiping and sweeping) for the summer.
You may also notice that the artists of the co-op are resting over the summer months and our good friends at the arts centre are running the gift shop Monday to Friday (do pop in and say 'howdy').
When you're there, you will undoubtedly notice the new shop display, grouping works together by artist. This allows you to check out the full range of art offered by each of our members, and allows us to devote one shelf/cubby hole/wall space for each of them.
I think you will like :)

Wordless Wednesday: Shelf by Shelf

2011-07-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

jewelry and beadwork by Sandra Ho

July in the City Hall Dispay

2011-07-09T10:04:00.000-07:00

photo sublimation print set of coasters in a wooden box

July's artist in residence in the City Hall display case (mezzanine level up stairs to council offices, if you didn't already know) is photographer, Sarah Ronald. She has a beautiful display of her photography in the display case, showcasing some incredible nature prints on textured canvas as well as some her striking images on mini art tiles (complete with easel).

The coaster sets would make gorgeous hostess gifts!
Note: all items in the display are for sale - phone 604 931 2008 to place your order through the gift shop.

Wordless Wednesday: patiently waiting

2011-07-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

stone carving by Tom Reid

July's Featured Artist: Ingrid Davitt

2011-07-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

This month we are featuring the glass etching art of Ingrid Davitt. Her intricate First Nations patterns, etched on all manner of glassware, are a fixture in the gift shop but this month we will be displaying them in prime position.
Please do come to view this fine collection.

Happy Canada Day

2011-07-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

fireworks over Vancouver, by Tracy Riddell,
stained glass maple leaf by Margret Billings

From the Blackberry Artist's Society, Happy Canada Day to all!

Wordless Wednesday: Tallest Trees

2011-06-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

photography by Sarah Ronald

In Praise of 2D (and an apology)

2011-06-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

work by Sarah Ronald, James Mah and Elizabeth Wallace

There are some amazing talented 2D artists in the Blackberry Artist's Society; painters, printmakers, photographers and paper artists. Most months their work makes only the odd appearance in the blog posts, and for that I would like to apologise.

by Elizabeth Wallace

Firstly, it's much easier (for me) to photograph low-level (and I'm talking vertical here, rather than low brow) 3D objects because that's what I'm used to. As a 5'3" shorty with balance issues and an aversion to step ladders, I get fewer camera-shakes at sea level so to speak.
Another issue is framing, or reflection to be more precise. Glass, or indeed cellophane on the cards, throws up all sorts of light glare problems. Getting 'the perfect shot' is a problem.

by Alina Markiewicz and Tracy Riddell

I can only hope that the other shelf scenes and Critter Adoption pleas tempt you into the gift shop, and once there you remember to lift your eyes up to the walls and check out our incredible gallery for yourself.

Wordless Wednesday: Critter Adoption Edition

2011-06-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

adoptable giraffe tea pot and cups from Myrta Hayes

This Month in City Hall: Yolanda Cheung

2011-06-18T07:23:00.000-07:00

This month's featured artist in the City Hall display is paper artist, Yolanda Cheung. Her graceful and intricate cards and folded gift enclosures are regular finds in the gift shop. In addition, her framed pieces are wonderful hostess gifts from a local artisan.
Yolanda specialises in the art of paper cutting, using both scissors and sharp knife to create her amazing landscapes and animal images.

My personal favourite is the range of Chinese astrology animal cards, with each of the twelve animals carefully centred on a plain white card in the centre of an embossed frame. They make a stylish and unique birthday card. I'm also drawn to the 'Bliss' card featured in her display.

Note: all items in the display are for sale (with duplicate of many of the card styles available immediately in the gift shop) - phone 604 931 2008 to place your order through the gift shop.

Wordless Wednesday: Cards for Father's Day

2011-06-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

cards galore for Father's Day

Don't Forget: Father's Day Is Coming Up

2011-06-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

Still Creek Skiff by Tracy Riddell, wood intarsia puppy by Del Holbrook

Don't forget, Father's Day is coming up soon (that's Sunday, 19th June to be precise). Although dads can be a little trickier to buy for, not all of them want a laz-e-boy recliner (or however it's spelt in the flyers arriving since mid May) or golf equipment.

by Pat de Couto

Why not take a trip to your friendly neighbourhood artisan artist co-operative gift shop (yes, that's us) for some truly original one-of-a-kind handmade gift choices? We have some great wood intarsia art, stunning driftwood carvings and even some classy sterling silver cufflinks on offer.
As your one-stop gift buying experience, we also have re-usable cloth gift bags and a selection of art cards to complete your purchase.

by Amanda Maxwell

Happy Father's Day - we're better than furniture!

Wordless Wednesday: Talking Heads

2011-06-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

work by Joan Marr, Del Holbrook and Pat de Couto

June's Featured Artist: Margret Billings

2011-06-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

This month, the gift shop is featuring the intricate and colourful stained glass of artist, Margret Billings. Most of our visitors will already be familiar with her gorgeous summery butterflies which have been flying across our windows summoning the summer to visit rainy Port Moody. Many more will be anticipating Canada Day for the stunning red maple leaf decorations, and yet more will be saving up their pennies for Christmas's festive snowflakes (I'm sure I'm not the only one who keeps theirs out all year round - too beautiful to hide away).

Margret has been working in this medium for many years, and finds the copper foil technique ideal for the flowing lines of her drawings.
She is a familiar 'resident' in the giftshop with her architectural lamps and candle votives, and also her sought-after terrariums (I heard a recommendation that they can give even the least able gardener a viable green thumb). What many of you may not realise though, is that Margret also makes larger stained glass panels. The fairy on the rock currently on display is one example. If you'd like to see more, ask to check through her artist's bio for more examples. You won't be disappointed :)

Wordless Wednesday: Blimey! It's June.

2011-06-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

paper art card by Valerie Gilbert (just right for Father's Day)

Macro Moment: In The Picture

2011-05-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

detail from work by Valerie Simons

Perhaps this macro moment will encourage to to fall into (love with) a picture?
Macro photography of 2D works, especially paintings rather than prints, can reveal textural details which are lost in photographs taken from a distant vantage point.
Most of the paintings, prints and other art works are high up on the gift shop walls. Now, I'm not that great on ladders so I have to wait until the stock is rotated and is in within reach of me and my lens.
It's worth the wait.
Can't you just imagine stepping onto this pathway and walking through the forest, feeling the sunlight dappled on your skin as you wander beneath the trees?

Wordless Wednesday: It's in the Macro

2011-05-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

handcarved by Tom Reid

It's in the Macro

2011-05-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

carving by Tom Reid

Imagine shrinking yourself down to a fraction of your normal size, and then taking a visit to the gift shop to explore. What a wonderful world it would be (apart from damn freaky to whoever was on duty in the shop that day)! You could get up close to some of our wonderful work and really appreciate the detail that goes into each piece.

wood intarsia plaque by Del Holbrook

But that ain't going to happen. No, we're not in the business of offering incredible shrinking tours around our shop. As an alternative I can offer you some of my favourite macro moments each month. I'll 'fess up to enjoying photographing the artist's works in here a whole lot more than I do photographing people. My 'models' on the shelves pose properly, don't need to be reminded to hold still, and will 'sit' for endless retakes until I'm happy with the shot. Macro or very close up is my 'distance of choice' for my own work, and it produces some interesting shots of larger pieces too. Although as a complete representation of a work, it should be pictured in its entirety, I hope the artists in the cooperative don't mind when only 'select highlights' are shown.

So, let me take you on a macro voyage around the gift shop. Next time you're visiting, why not try to identify where the pictures came from so you can appreciate the fine work and textures in real life :)

wire and fibre acorns by Amanda Maxwell

Wordless Wednesday: Butterflies Have Landed

2011-05-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

stained glass butterfly by Margret Billings

City Hall Featured Artist: Del Holbrook

2011-05-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

My, oh my. The Blackberry Artists are taking over City Hall this month.
As well as a beautiful display next to the library (thank you to Margret Billings for organising this), we have woodworker, Del Holbrook, capturing the attention with his work in the display case on the way up to the council offices.

This display is sure to bring out the child in us all, or at least have us looking around for a niece, nephew, or grandchild to buy for. There are heirloom-in-waiting classic toy vehicles and personalised wooden bookends for nursery shelves.

It makes you wish Christmas was here - but why wait that long?

May's Featured Artist: Joan Marr

2011-05-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

This month's featured artist is Joan Marr and her breathtaking display is well worth visiting the gift shop for.
Joan's creative work is all about paper. She hand makes the paper used in her art, often adding in other elements such as leaf material or seed heads, before moulding the material into her finished creation. This month's display is an astounding showcase of what can be achieved with a supply which frequently ends up in recycling.

Visitors to the gift shop will be familiar with her beautifully sculpted and decorated masks seen on our walls, and her lovely cards. This month they are joined by 3D "pictures" which should be appreciated up close to take in the textures.

Joan also has work in the display case next to the desk which emphasise the point that paper can be sculptural too. One of my faves is the impressive 'geode' formation which features glass marbles and chips at its base - not the usual materials associated with paper. The result? a wonderful work of mixed media.

Fresh From City Hall

2011-05-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

library display case; works by Joe Martin, Sandra Ho, Dan Severance, Pat de Couto and Beryl Hickinbottom

The Blackberry Artist's Society has taken over the library display case at City Hall for the whole of May, with a stunning display of work by a number of our members. Library patrons will be treated to a glimpse of what some of their friendly neighbourhood artisans are up to creatively. It's also a great reminder of what a wonderful, local one-stop shopping resource the gift shop tucked away inside the Port Moody Arts Centre is (especially since Mother's Day is just round the corner, and Father's Day not long after).

bears by Tom Reid, Cathy Rycroft and Del Holbrook

From Bear Corner (top right display case) to Weaver's Delight (lower left) there is something to please everyone.

art cards by James Mah

It's also a veritable treasure trove of delightful one-of-a-kind gifts, including some beautiful personalised stamped jewelry, suitable for Mother's Day, complete with art card selection to tuck away into the packaging.
All work is for sale - phone the gift shop (604 931 2008) to arrange a pick up time.

PS: don't forget to pay a visit to the other display case up the stairs opposite the City Hall reception desk where you will find Del Holbrook's work on show :)

display featuring the work of Vicki Allesia, Luci Gimenes, Val Simons, Tracy Riddell, Sarah Ronald and Valerie Gilbert

Wordless Wednesday: Ask The Artist

2011-05-04T22:21:00.000-07:00


ceramic plate by Dan Severance

As it says ...