Heather's Element

Changes are Afoot

2012-01-27T05:39:00.000-08:00

I have been forced to slow down this week, recovering from what is hopefully my last in a series of many oral surgeries in the past 3 years. Neither my husband or myself make a good patient when we are supposed to be on bed rest. I must say, I have still been taking advantage of every moment in which there was a spec of extra energy, cooking mushy food and catching up on computer work. It is not often that I have days and days to reflect and spend time with myself, and its been kind of nice, if a little frustrating.

When I first began...

If you read my previous blog before it was hijacked, you will recall my quest for balance in my life since starting my business. Its been such a struggle over the last 5 years, a string of "bad boyfriends" didn't help me feel good about ever finding a partner, and I was on the verge of burnout for the first 3 years. I was really down and out after choosing people in my life that were derogatory and jealous of my work life. Meeting and marrying my husband has changed things for me. Its like this thought has finally crept in, " There is more to life than your work."
I find myself wanting to hang out at home, cook, entertain and fix up the house. I really don't want to work at all lately, at least not to the extent I have been for the past 5 years. I am tired, and I want a life, and a family. So now comes the time when I try to untangle myself a little, build boundaries between myself and my business, and figure out not my quest as a single gal, " who will deal with my 80 hour work week?" but " How do I lessen my 80 hour work week to make room for myself and my family?"

I have been trying really hard lately to make a manageable to-do list. I am a list maker, and really have been torturing myself with piling too much crap on a single day and then beating myself up for not achieving the crazy goal I set out for myself. I think this is the first step. Since the new year, I walk into work and determine what time I would like to leave that evening, (which is still late sometimes, and that's okay) and determine what exactly I can accomplish during that time. It is working, I leave withing about 30 minutes of when I set out to, and I actually finish the tasks on my list.
My friend, Kyle Carpenter, a fellow potter gave me this little gem of wisdom when i asked how he manages to balance a career, 2 kids and a wife, "It's all about time management." I guess I am moving in the right direction.

Bon Appetit!

2012-01-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

I feel so excited today! Mike brought home the much anticipated copy of the February 2012 Issue of Bon Appetit.

I am so honored that they asked for my opinions and featured myself, and the amazing town in which I live!

I was so nervous when the called me, this was a HUGE deal. We talked many times and it was very difficult to narrow down the list to just a handful they narrowed it even further by press time. I am so happy to be able to support some of my favorite businesses in such a meaningful way, and can;t believe my name and picture are in Bon Appetit. Its a crazy feeling.

Dining Room

2012-01-10T10:53:00.000-08:00

Inspired by THIS post, I decided to document our dining room makeover.

A "Before" shot.

We will be tackling the entire house over the next few months. We haven;t been able to do much since moving in right before the wedding in September. Most people that have come over have said, "Its not that bad. I like these colors." Well, for us, living in this dirty, earth toned rental has been less that satisfying. I can;t even begin to describe the sad state of the paint jobs that have gone on in this house. The trim was last painted probably somewhere close to 1982. You can see bits of purple and pink paint everywhere, underneath and poking out from the pale mustard yellow and minty greens, and don;t get me started on the trim in the guest room, where our landlord pulled up shag carpet to reveal hardwoods but never repainted the trim. ITS EFFING HIDEOUS.

Another "before" notice our cute cocktail menu from last nights party.

Step one, take down art, put everything in middle.

next, cover with tarp and have husband paint ceiling.

one finished wall. those doors are cheap and ugly. go buy a curtain.

I love chalkboard paint, cutting in on a huge wall with runny black paint, not so much.

almost there.

hanging curtains. notice that i put up our awesome new chandelier for kicks. it looks great dangling from the90's sponge painted fan. really.

now the neighbors won;t see me in my underwear when i come down for coffee and i don;t have to look at those cheap plastic doors.

the chalkboard paint is still curing. I will post a pic when its done and we can draw!

So here is the beginning of the journey, from yucky rental to amazing rental that will make everyone jealous. We decided to really go all out because we plan on staying for a long time.... we even painted the frickin ceiling, and it looks amazing. Of course now, It looks like a room from someone else's house has been transplanted into ours. next is the kitchen, which you can see in the back. lovely periwinkle blue countertops, mint green walls and almond appliances.. just lovely.................

Collard Greens

2012-01-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a recipe fit for New Years. I made these greens for Christmas Dinner and they will be on the menu from now until forever. I cannot profess enough love for this recipe. D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S!
I took this directly from Bon Apetit, didn't change a darn thing . oh, except i added more bacon, cooked them a little longer, and Mom didn't have paprika so I used chili powder.

Good-quality smoked bacon and fresh collard greens are the keys to this indulgent riff on creamed spinach.

8–10 servings

Recipe by John Currence
Photograph by Anders Overgaard

November 2011

Ingredients

2 large bunches collard greens (about 1 1/2 lb.), center stems removed and leaves cut into 1/2” strips
Kosher salt
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 cup 1/3” (about 6 oz.) thick-cut smoked bacon
Unsalted butter (if needed)
2 large shallots, finely chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
2 cups whole milk
2 cups heavy cream
Freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Blanch greens in a large pot of boiling salted water until bright green and beginning to soften, 3–4 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl of ice water to cool. Squeeze dry.
Heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until fat is rendered and bacon is crisp, 5–7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain; set aside.
Drain all but 3 Tbsp. bacon drippings from pot, adding butter if needed to measure 3 Tbsp. Add shallots; cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add flour and paprika; stir constantly for 2 minutes. Whisk in milk and cream; bring to a boil, whisking often. Stir in greens; reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring often, until greens are tender and sauce thickens, about 30 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer creamed greens to a serving dish; garnish with reserved bacon.

Reflections on the New Year

2012-01-01T06:18:00.000-08:00

I can't believe another year has passed. 2011 was huge for me personally, as well as for the business. The year started with getting engaged in St. Croix, followed quickly by my dear friend Alison coming to use her super powers to help me at the studio, moving the studio to the Wedge, and flying to NY to appear on the Nate Berkus Show. And that was just the first 3 months! I spent the summer planning the wedding, and then there's Coastal Living, which came just weeks before I got married. The Holiday season broke records for me this year, I could use a few weeks away, honestly, but I have already been back at work gearing up for a lot of changes..

Mike & I have been working for months on new branding for the company, which I feel is absolutely necessary considering the growth we saw in 2011. My old logo was something I drew with a sharpie on a piece of paper for the studio I started almost 5 years ago. Element Clay Studio was a group studio and I ended up just kind of adopting it as my own business identity as things progressed. Now that I am out on my own and so visible, I felt like it was important to clarify and polish that identity....I have been working hard on implementing the change on the websites, and soon will come new signs and print materials.

We are also inches away from launching the Etsy Page for Element Vintage .... so watch out! We have a nice little rotation going on in the showroom now, its been a lot of fun to incorporate my love of vintage & interior design into my work life. I am kind of nervous about launching another shop, but it is so fun!

My goal in the studio this year is to branch out a little more. I have been reminded over these past few very busy months that the more time I spend in the studio, the more I generate new ideas. I have also had to face that sometimes production is BORING! and the only way to keep sane is to follow my urges to create new and different things. I am totally in love with making bowls right now, have plans to start regular production of candles soon, as well as some larger and more one of a kind work. I love what I do, but honestly, it is always a struggle to keep things fresh.

The value of things

2011-11-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

   Its been totally busy and amazing here lately, but there have been a few challenges with the increased volume. The biggest issue for me lately has been people devaluing my work.

I work 60-70 hour weeks, make everything single thing in my shop by hand and work with a pretty difficult material, I am also running a business, which costs money-- I have overhead people! When you ask me to mark down my work, it says to me that you don't think my time, effort, skills and experience are worth it to you. If you don't think its worth it, you have a few options: 1. wait for me to run a sale, 2. buy something cheaper or less of what you want at a time, 3. Shop in my sale section, or 4. don't own my work, seems pretty simple to me. (Am I wrong to assume that when a major retailer runs a sale and you miss it, you don't email them asking for a special exception? or when you go to a restaurant with a limited budget you don't ask for them to mark down your meal? or when you go to the grocery store, you don't ask the butcher to price the Filet Mignon the same as ground chuck?)

   I know I am not the only artist that gets many requests for free or discounted work, but it really has made me come to the conclusion that the public thinks that artists are so desperate for coin that they will give away their work for free or cheaper than they should. Its insulting, really, when you ask an artist to mark down their work, it fees to them like you really are saying, " you are worth so much less than that, and you are so desperate you will take whatever i offer you." I wish I was wrong.....

    I run sales on my Etsy page for a few reasons, but I am beginning to think I should stop offering any discounts, because if I run sales at all, I am perpetuating the misconception.

   I have also come to feel, as a result of treatment by the public,designers and retailers, that my time is not considered valuable either. Like all artists are sitting around eating bon bons and waiting for inspiration to strike. I don't know about the rest of you out there, but I am frickin busy, and honestly, I don't have much time for non sense, or 15 emails from the same person demanding special treatment, or a request for an emergency shipment on December 1 when I emailed you 12 weeks ago for your holiday order, or to drop what I am doing and interview you for a job without an appointment.

This holiday season, I hope we all remember that when we are buying handmade there is a person behind the work that has dedicated themselves to making what you are purchasing, it is unique to them and their time and skill is worth something.You are paying for their experience, their skill and craftsmanship, their uniqueness and also keeping their business running and a roof over your head. Shift your shopping and feel good about supporting handmade, FULLY.

Holiday Hustle

2011-11-29T08:27:00.000-08:00

I am busy, busy, busy these days.
     Getting ready for the holiday season was made a little more difficult by the fact that going into October, which is usually very slow for me, I was almost a month behind. I had to stock up all of my galleries & retailers and then my Etsy shop and build up the stock pile.
           On one hand, A mentor and online friend speaks about how she doesn't really prepare for the season, on the other, I get a little crazy with my preparations. I make tons of shit. and when I say tons, I literally mean it, I used over 1000 pounds of clay last month. The shop is over flowing with merchandise, my drying racks are full of items ready to be glazed whatever color I run out of, tiles that I sell the most of, custom and rush orders etc. I am prepared dammit. maybe even over prepared. (I usually am.) I can attribute this to experience, and my anal retentive nature. Its like working a busy dinner at Salsas back in the day, except this dinner rush lasts 6 weeks, not 6 hours. God, I remember all too clearly having a 3 hour wait list for dinner, people lined up around the block and running out of almost everything by the end of service. At the studio, I have everything prepared and my head is down, I will just keep going until its over.

   This year, I fell pretty good about where I am standing on this, the beginning of shit really hitting the fan.. I have increased my pars for everything weeks ago, so I have quite the stockpile....... and it does make me feel better knowing that I can take a few days off and the world is indeed, not going to end while i stuff myself silly with delicious food and wine and watch copious amounts of crappy television.

I am thankful for my crazy organized ways and equally insane work ethic, because after Christmas, I will have a little left over inventory to help me shift slowly back in to work in January.

Souper Easy

2011-11-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

I haven't gotten back into the full swing of potluck, but have managed to cook two Sundays in a row, which at this time of year is no small feat. I have neglected to make the apple tart that I have been so desperately dreaming about....... I have my eye on this recipe, I love how she stacks the apples. maybe this weekend? Its studio stroll, meaning I will get no actual work done and will be forced to talk to a few hundred strangers,answering mind numbing questions and fake smiling, but on the bright side, I will also be able to actually leave work at 6:00 on Saturday & Sunday, so maybe I will actually get to dedicate some time to pie making, I am also craving Risotto which takes serious face time with my space ship stove.

Yes, this really is my stove.

Here is my new go-to soup, took very little time, effort, oreven ingredients, really and it was amazing. I have adapted this from Giada Laurentiis' book, Giada's Kitchen. I used some chef mojo. (Like instead of using a ladle to transfer hot soup in 3 batches into a blender or processor, I whipped out my immersion blender. I was kind of shocked by the suggestion that one move scalding hot soup into a device which could potentially blow it up into your face..... but I digress.)

Tuscan White Bean Soup
3 Tbl. Butter
1 Tble Olive Oil
1/4 red onion, chopped
3 sage leaves
2 cans Cannellini Beans
4 garlic cloves, halved
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt & Pepper to taste

-Saute onion in buuter & oil
-add sage, beans and garlic
-add broth and simmer for about 15 mniutes
-whip out your handy immersion blender, plug it in and stick it in the pot, Puree
-add cream, salt, pepper
-eat. enjoy.

Limited Edition

2011-11-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

These large 14" round platters are fresh out of the kiln. I couldn't wait to photograph them! They turned out great.
I am producing a limited edition of each design and color combination, 50 of each, some are going to my most favorite galleries, so there will only be a limited supply up on Etsy and in the showroom.

Beet Salad

2011-11-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

Its been a while since I posted a recipe. Wedding planning and cramming in all this extra work around the big day has put a damper on my pot luck excitement.

I totally stole this picture.

I managed to get my crazy buttt to the grocery store this week and prep a bunch of healthy food for myeslf and the hubby for the week. I saw some Golden Beets at the local overpriced health food chain and grabbed them quick. Beets and goat cheese make an amazing pairing for a delicious salad and I did the following, which made for hands down, the best fall salad I have ever tasted. Serve it with a nice red wine if you wish.
I used my "chef measurements" ( I eyeballed it) and the herbs that were still growing in the garden.

4 golden beets
1/2 red onion
Sugar
Rice wine vinegar
salt
pepper
thyme
micro basil
oregano
garlic
olive oil

for the salad:

greens... I suggest baby mixed greens, herb salad or arugula
goat cheese
some walnuts if you are feeling fancy

1. wash the beets, scrub 'em a little
2. toss them whole with some olive oil, herbs and garlic.
3. roast at 350 for 1-2 hours, just kinda check on them. They should be holding there shape but have some give when you touch them
4. Let cool slightly
5. while the beets are roasting, thinly slice onion, toss with sugar, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic a dash of oil and more herbs.
6. When beets are cool enough to handle, remove skin, cut into desired shapes and toss with onion mixture.
7. for plating: place a bed of greens, drizzle olive oil, finishing salt & a little cracked pepper, beets and then some slices of goat cheese on top. sprinkle with walnuts if desired.
8. BAM! enjoy!

Mrs. workaholic

2011-10-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

I took 3 weeks off (basically) to get married, recover & honeymoon.....I have never walked away from work for such a great length of time. Here are ten things i learned from the experience

1: I need 2 weeks of vacation, MAX. I was bored and listless by the end.
2: Taking time off so close to the holidays is STUPID, STUPID, STUPID.
3. I will never retire.
4. I always forget how well I work under pressure.
5. Making ceramics for a living is difficult and dries out your skin.
6.Yoga is essential.
7. I finally learned to not bring work home with me.
8. Sometimes its okay to drink at work.
9.Having a supportive husband has made my life easier.
10. I can't wait till December 22. (The last day of shipping is the 21st)

New Vintage!

2011-10-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

We are back from the honeymoon and brought back some sweet new accessories! We will have the new Etsy page up and running soon with all of our vintage goodies, watch out for our unique selection of what I am currently calling "Mid Century Appalachian Modern" vintage and upcyled furniture and home goods.

We have a great selection of giant butter crocks, old ceramic jugs and some sweet ceramic beer bottles, cocktail sets and the coolest wood snack bowls i have ever seen. Also check out these rustic art deco chairs, I can't wait to style up the show room this week!

Coastal Living

2011-08-27T07:18:00.000-07:00

The game has officially changed! I just got a full page in Coastal Living, things are crazy, life is good.
I think we are on a high at the studio, it has been that good kind of crazy, when I am working like a dog, but enjoying it.......

This is the kind of press that increases my business exponentially, which is completely exciting and terrifying at the same time. I like it!

New Dishes

2011-08-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

Introducing Geode and Hive!
These bowls are more delicate than my other work, the texture is fine and the porcelain is super thin, giving them a nice transluscency. yum!

Being an Entrepreneur

2011-08-17T07:23:00.000-07:00

    While I have been chipping away at my wedding planning and so sadly slacking on my blogging, I have also been reading the Martha Rules and thinking alot about my business, and what it means to be an entrepreneur.
   The goal in my mind every day, the big picture, is to make this a sustainable and long term career and to grow my business into something larger while still holding onto my hand made, family business values and integrity.
What I have done since day one is strive for excellence, and that applies to all aspects of my business. I truly believe that this has what has made me so successful so quickly and has built my reputation through word of mouth and repeat buyers.From the cleanliness and beauty of my studio, to pristine print materials, great quality art and photography, to quick delivery and careful and attentive customer service, each is an essential and vital part of the formula for my success. All of it takes time, discipline and dedication and I am ready and willing to do it, every single day.
   I read this great article in the NYT the other day, and the parts that stand out for me are the parts about the demands of the job. Running your own business seems like a dream to many, but the truth is, it demands stamina and sacrifice. There are long hours and lost sleep, all of the responsibility is your own, there is no one there to cover for you when you are sick or tired, and in my business, if I don't make the work, I can't make any money. I don't know a single successful lifestyle entrepreneur that doesn't work overtime, my own minimum work week is 60 hours. The risk is huge. If I fail, I lose everything, my future is gone. Every single thing i do is important, and now that I have someone else working for me, every single thing they do should reflect my business and personal values too. Talk about PRESSURE!
    I have felt defensive and guilty a lot over the past few years. As my business has grown, I have been around socially less and less, I have had to make sacrifices, and so have my loved ones. The only people that I feel truly understand me and my situation are those that are doing what I am: Running a business that they are passionate about and feeling the weight of it each day. I am proud of who i am and what i have and will accomplish and I am going to do my best to stop apologizing for it.

It takes heart and passion that not everyone has, entrepreneurs are a different breed, we have to make appointments with friends weeks ahead of time and will most likely never work just 9-5, we don't get to leave until the job is done. We are tired but satisfied!

New Vintage

2011-07-30T09:33:00.000-07:00

I have been a blog slacker this month........ the wedding planning and moving have taken over my life. I promise to be back and better than ever soon enough!

Swedish wood candle stick and amazing little bull planter

In the mean time, here are a few snap shots of some new vintage merch in the showroom. The furniture is starting to move a lot more quickly as we start to create a buzz about Element Vintage, so if you see something you like, please email me an inquiry or come by the shop soon! I hate to see the sad puppy faces people make when they wait too long to make a purchase!

Mint Condition Lane Cedar Chest $275

70's black tufted soft vinyl couch on casters $450

Mid Century Rope rocker $350

Mint Condition martini set, West Virginia glass, $40

Summertime favorite!

2011-07-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

If you invite me to a party this summer, this is what I am bringing. easy and amazingly delicious, it could be a meal by itself.

Panzanella

Prep Time:: 15 min
Inactive Prep Time:: 30 min
Cook Time:: 10 min

Level:: Easy

Serves:: 12 servings

Ingredients

3 tablespoons good olive oil
1 small French bread or boule, cut into 1-inch cubes (6 cups)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large, ripe tomatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 hothouse cucumber, unpeeled, seeded, and sliced 1/2-inch thick
1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 red onion, cut in 1/2 and thinly sliced
20 large basil leaves, coarsely chopped
3 tablespoons capers, drained

For the vinaigrette:

1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons Champagne vinegar
1/2 cup good olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Heat the oil in a large saute pan. Add the bread and salt; cook over low to medium heat, tossing frequently, for 10 minutes, or until nicely browned. Add more oil as needed.

For the vinaigrette, whisk all the ingredients together.

In a large bowl, mix the tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, yellow pepper, red onion, basil, and capers. Add the bread cubes and toss with the vinaigrette. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Serve, or allow the salad to sit for about half an hour for the flavors to blend.

My True Love, Chalkboard Paint

2011-07-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

I need something happy to think about today. Getting Hitched soon! (71 days to be exact) We found a house, which is great. I am eager to move out of my studio apartment, though I am going to miss my downtown neighborhood immensely. It is going to be so much fun to decorate our new place together, and of course, I can't wait to find a way to incorporate chalkboard!

Write the Book You Want To Read

2011-06-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have been a little slack on the blogging lately, but I am here to resume the series on How to Steal Like an Artist and other things.....
This weeks point is "Write the Book You Want To Read". Simply put in artist terminology, "The best way to find the work you should be doing is to think about the work you want to see done that isn’t being done, and then go do it."

People ask me how I came up with the idea for my work, and really, I saw a bunch of stuff out there that I really liked and was influenced by, J prichard, Alice Ballard, etc.... but I wanted to play with texture and allow myself the freedom to explore while also creating something I thought would be really cool, and so was born, the textured tile collection.

New Vintage

2011-06-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Shell Chair POR, Lane side table $125, Blue Cutout Chair $95

I know some of you are aware of my love for all things mid century, and I am happy to announce that Mike and I are in the beginning stages of developing our new business, Element Vintage. We will be focusing on Mid Century, but mixing in really interesting accessories with natural, atomic and even industrial twists. What this means for now is that locals can pop in to my show room and find some and picked furniture and accessories to compliment their decor.

Quilted Black Vinyl Chair $160, Industrial Stool $150, Cart $195

Etsy and Ebay shops will come a little later once we feel that we have enough inventory. This is a really exciting way for me to stay fresh creatively, since interior design is something I really enjoy and also help shape the future of Element Clay Studio, as I begin to think about branding and expansion.
Here are a few things I picked up this week! enjoy!

Angry Customers

2011-06-08T06:58:00.000-07:00

I didn't sleep very well last night.
     I had 2 angry customers last week. One thinks my work is too expensive and that my photography is meant to intentionally mislead people into thinking that they are going to receive multiples of an item, and the second had a glaze drip on the outside of the bowl that apparently makes my work worthless and went on a tyrade on my feedback page instead of working with me to resolve the situation. I really love that it is right above a happy customer who says, "Heather is a genius." ( which had me literally floating on air the day previous) There are always things I have to say when dealing with an out of town customer in regards to returns, and maybe that sent this woman over the edge, I will never know because she has yet to respond to any of my convos.I apologize, offer a solution, and also ask the customer how they would like to handle things.

     I don't want to have unhappy customers out there in the world, but honestly, I just don't want to deal with it. I have developed a new strategy, kill 'em with a little kindness and offer a full refund. I thought this was a fair approach, you are unhappy with my work, the quality, the price, et al, I think, "hey, they probably won't ever be happy with it" and offer to give them their money back. Is there something wrong with this approach? Am I being lazy in the customer service department? If someone asks me directly for an exchange, I give it to them. If they don't personally attack me when issuing a complaint, I do everything in my power to make it right. Heck, I had a few customers that I just let them keep the work and gave them a refund. But, here's the kicker, they were nice about it.
     Is it wrong to treat my customers unequally? Its how I operate in my personal life. If you are full of negativity and drama, I won't give you much. If you are sweet, well, I may just bring you a random cupcake and drop everything to help you out when you need it.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Fake it 'till you make it.

2011-06-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

College work

I am revisiting this post, for anyone just joining me. This week's point is.......................

Don't wait until you know who you are to make things
I have to say, I totally relate to this point. (AND I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the saying "fake it till you make it.")
When I decided to take art seriously, I came at it conceptually, as a way to find out who I was, to learn what I liked, what I believed, what I was good at, what I wanted to do. It is in the act of making things that we find ourselves. Struggling through making art on my own and then pursuing a fine art degree, I evolved. I went from an artist with a rather elementary skill set, no visual language, and no critical knowledge, to someone with a definitive viewpoint and a language that is very much my own.
I think we could even subtitle this point "Don't be so scared! Get off your butt and make something!"

Apparently there is this thing," it’s called imposter syndrome. The clinical definition is a “psychological phenomenon in which people are unable to internalize their accomplishments.” It means that you feel like a phony, like you’re just winging it, that you really don’t have any idea what you’re doing."

Can anyone else relate to that??? oh, boy, I can't even tell you how much of my current success relied on me,EHHHHHHEMMMMMMMM, pardon my french, pulling it out of my ass. When I started this whole thing, I really felt like a rookie for sure, I had plenty of restaurant experience and an art degree, but what the heck were those gonna do? I just didn't let the fear of failure and the unknown stop me.

1 year out of school

You are never going to reach your full potential as an artist or as a human being of you don't face that fear head on and push through. So go ahead, fudge it a little, try to internalize you accomplishments over time, give yourself some credit and get off you tush and make things!

S'mores Cupcakes. Like WOAH.

2011-06-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

OK, Now this recipe is a little complicated. I have a thing for the process of baking, I get lost in it, and its nice to keep my skills alive after years of being away from the professional kitchen.
Don't be intimidated! Armed with google on my iphone, I was able to make it through figuring out the soft-ball stage of sugar without a candy thermometer, but I do believe that you could probably get away with Marshmallow Fluff in a jar. I cooked the sugar and had a bowl of ice water next to the stove, after about 6-8 minutes the sugar starts to get thicker, and you can just spoon some out and drop it into the ice water, then pull it out and its should be soft and malleable! Its that easy, folks, I felt like a magician.

There are 3 components, and I would recommend making the cupcakes ahead of time and doing the last two steps pretty close to serving time. ( it will take about an additional 1/2 hour)

S’mores Cupcakes
adapted from: Martha Stewart’s Cupcakes

for the cupcakes:
1 1/2 c cake flour
1 1/3 c graham flour (I used Bob’s Red Mill)
2 t baking powder
1 1/2 t salt
1 1/2 t ground cinnamon
1 1/2 c unsalted butter, room temperature
2 c packed light brown sugar
1/2 c honey
6 large eggs
2 t vanilla extract

1 large bar semisweet chocolate

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Sift together flours, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Cream butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy. Reduce mixer speed and add in the eggs and vanilla until well combined. Add the flour mixture gradually until just incorporated.
Fill each baking cup 2/3 full, break off squares of chocolate and place in the middle of the batter, bake for 20 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan before turning them out to cool completely.
-Once cool, spread chocolate glaze on top of cupcakes
- pipe icing immediately after making
-with a torch, lightly brown the frosting.

Marshmallow Icing:
1 envelope Unflavored Knox Gelatin
1/3 C water
1/4 C water
1 C Sugar

1. In a mixing bowl, Sprinkle gelatin over 1/3 C water and let stand for 5 minutes
2. Heat the remaining water & sugar in a saucepan over medium high heat and boil until temperature reaches the soft-ball stage, or 238 F. Remove from heat and add syrup to gelatin. Whisk by hand for about 1 minute to cool, then add to mixer and whisk until glassy stiff peaks from. (about 10 minutes)

YIELDS
1 cup

INGREDIENTS
2/3 cup heavy cream
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
1 tablespoon corn syrup

PREPARATION

Heat cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Place chocolate and corn syrup in a small bowl. Pour hot cream over chocolate mixture, and stir until smooth. Use immediately.

Pot(luck) Brownies

2011-05-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Gotcha! : )
They are probably great for the munchies though! salty, chocolatey and sweet.... add some homemade ice cream and be in heaven!
Loved making these brownies, and the Fiance really loved licking the spoon!The batter is addictive, I will warn you! I was up really late so I waited overnight in between steps, which ended up working brilliantly. The caramel sauce takes about 10 minutes or so, and sets up really quickly once you pour it.
This makes a HUGE batch of brownies, filling the pan all the way to the top once they are cooked, and my oven doesn't really like giant pans,it is tiny and cooks unevenly, so I may split this up into 2 square pans next time.

Make sure to trim the top of the brownie to make room for the glaze, and I gotta warn you, I had a bit of a time cutting these in a neat manner... but they taste amazing! Trust me.

Dark Chocolate Brownies with Salted Caramel Glaze

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 1/2 Hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound unsalted butter
1 1/2 pounds bittersweet chocolate, use chips or chop larger pieces (The bittersweet keeps the brownie from being too sweet; perfect with a sweet glaze but semi sweet can be substituted)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
6 large eggs
2 1/2 cups sugar
2 Tbsp pure vanilla extract
2 Tbsp Kahlua
2 Tbsp strong-brewed espresso
6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup)
2 cups walnut halves, lightly toasted and coarsely chopped – Don’t skip toasting them, makes all the difference.

Preparation Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°. Spray a 9-by-13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with cooking spray, or butter and sprinkle with cocoa powder and flour
In a double boiler, melt the butter with the chopped chocolate over low heat.
In a small bowl, whisk the flour with the baking powder and salt.
Beat the eggs with the sugar at medium-high speed until pale and thick, about 4 minutes.
Beat in the Kahlua, vanilla and espresso.
Add the flour mixture and beat until just incorporated.
Beat in the melted chocolate and butter mixture at medium speed.
Using a spoon, stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
Scrape the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Bake in the center of the oven for about 30-40 minutes , until the top is shiny and lightly cracked, the edges are set and the center is still a bit jiggly.
The original recipe calls for an hour, start checking at 30 minutes, it is most likely all you need.
Transfer the dish to a rack and let cool completely..
I cut down the top of the brownies to make room for the glaze with an offset spatula after they cooled

Salted Caramel Glaze

Ingredients

1/2 cup half and half or heavy cream (Most recipes call for heavy cream which I seldom have on hand. Half and half works just fine)
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup water
4 Tbsp butter, cut in pieces
1/2 tsp kosher salt
Salt for sprinkling: This recipe originally called for Maldon Salt, I had some Fleur de Sel and used that or you can sprinkle with more kosher salt

Preparation Instructions

In small saucepan over low heat, warm heavy cream but do not boil.
In separate medium saucepan, combine sugar & water but DO NOT STIR. Place over medium-high heat & bring to a boil. Cook until mixture turns an amber color; watch closely, it can quickly go from the perfect color to burning! (10+ minutes); keep a close watch on it.)
Once mixture is amber, remove from heat and add warm cream, butter, and 1/2 t. kosher salt.
if you have never ventured into caramel sauce before, be aware that it will bubble and act a little crazy when you add the cream and then the butter as well. It is perfectly normal,
Stir gently using a whisk until smooth & well combined. Pour over brownies, tilting the pan to coat. Sprinkle with more kosher salt.
Allow glaze to set before cutting/serving.

Here is the original Recipe link for the brownies.... I have changed a few things, and suggest using my corrections!

Stealing Like an Artist

2011-05-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

This post has been going around facebook, and I thought it was so good that I would do a series with each point!

One of my work tables

What's really great is that the first one is " Steal like an Artist." Now, this does not mean steal in a literal sense.... what I like to say when people ask me where I get my ideas, is that I have all of these things,ie: photos of other people's work, objects i find, research i have done on plants and sea life, and I let it marinate for a long while, and then I get to work on a new idea.
"You are the sum of your influences. The German writer Goethe said, “We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.”

My inspiration board gets re-done a few times a year.... notice the architecture, glass,fiber......

one of my inspiration bowls

The job of an artist is to collect ideas, the writer of this post suggests books.....( he is a writer) Though I love books, my artistic ideas come from visual research, and I am sure that its the same for most visual artists. By taking my cues from varying sources,a wide range of interests, from interior design and architecture to food, I am able to find my true voice.

The other side of the board, jewelry, fruit,lighting, fiber.

How cute!

2011-05-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

Lovin this new photo of my Amaryllis vase. Watch for it on Etsy at its special introductory price.....

Potluck Wednesday

2011-05-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have been obsessed with perfecting the pressed picnic sandwich after that first and very successful pass at it a few weeks ago using this recipe. I loved the layers of flavors, its a new way to play with food for me, a challenge to find my perfect picnic sandwich!
This week, I went with Tuna. I have fallen in love with this tuna salad recipe and decided to deconstruct it and turn it into this sandwich.....
I used a loaf of ciabatta
and then layered the following from the bottom up!
Tuna packed in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Marinated artichokes (parsley, basil, red oinion, s&p, olive oil)
Tomatoes
Mustard vinaigrette (Dijon, Balsamic, olive oil)
Arugula
Chopped olives
Basil Mayo

Wrap in parchment paper and Weigh it down with books for a few hours and cut into single servings.... viola!
here's a similar version.

hmmmmmph.

2011-05-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

Display at a gallery featuring my former intern's handy work. humph.

The Intern From Hell

2011-05-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last summer a girl asked me to be an intern at my studio for the summer. I was excited to be able to teach someone the business side of what I do, and thought it would be great to get some help in return. She seemed eager to learn and had her own body of work to pursue, it seemed like a great idea at the time........

      Today, i came across a link to her website and felt a swift kick to the gut as i realized that she took the opportunity to copy my work and recently set about creating her own website featuring work that features my textures, unglazed porcelain on the outside........... so much for mentoring. I was hoping in my naivete, that she would take her own work and learn about marketing and promotion. Instead, she just ripped me off.

A few years ago, i knew someone who took an assistant position for a pretty well known clay artist that also directly copied her mentor's work. The work was so similar, in fact, that when she(the assistant) had a piece in an exhibition, myself and others on the clay scene had a very hard time deciphering who's work it was, the mentor or the assistant.I remember studying the label next to the work with disbelief. Ironically, I relayed this story to my intern, who even more ironically , knows the artist that was ripped off and took a workshop with her, where the story and frustration was relayed to the class.

I have a very hard time with people who directly copy and market work that is not their own. I feel today, like I have been punched in the gut, lied to and betrayed.

Apparently, I didn't teach her anything.

New Work Preview

2011-05-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

Amaryllis Vase

Chestnut Bowl


Pistachio Micro Tile

Its Potluck time

2011-05-04T08:42:00.000-07:00

I have been slacking on the blog entries,,,,,,, no surprise here, still trying to get caught up from the move, plan a wedding, rush some work of for a one man show at Mudfire, an installation to Dubai and keep my sanity!
I have some new work to photograph, so look for that this weekend!

I made a simple Asparagus tart this week, thank you again Martha! Just a note: I ended up using Fontina cheese and a little Manchego I had sitting in the fridge, I also picked up some Pancetta and added a layer of that crumbled up in between the cheese and Asparagus, cause hey, bacon makes everything better!

- Flour, for work surface
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry
- 5 1/2 ounces (2 cups) Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 pounds medium or thick asparagus
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 16-by-10-inch rectangle. Trim uneven edges. Place pastry on a baking sheet. With a sharp knife, lightly score pastry dough 1 inch in from the edges to mark a rectangle. Using a fork, pierce dough inside the markings at 1/2-inch intervals. Bake until golden, about 15 minutes.
Remove pastry shell from oven, and sprinkle with Gruyere. Trim the bottoms of the asparagus spears to fit crosswise inside the tart shell; arrange in a single layer over Gruyere, alternating ends and tips. Brush with oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake until spears are tender, 20 to 25 minutes

Potluck Wednesdays

2011-04-28T17:03:00.000-07:00

OK, OK, I know its Thursday already.... but I just had an idea! I am going to post the recipes for my weekly contributions to the Phil Mechanic Potluck!
Tuesday nights are now a solid ritual for me, I drink wine and make something yummy. Its therapy! I love to cook, and usually its the only night of the week that i get to spend in the kitchen.
This week I made PB & J Cupcakes.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes (makes 18):

1 3/4 C all-purpose flour
3/4 T baking powder
1/2 t salt
1/4 t baking soda
6 oz (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 1/3 C sugar
2/3 C creamy peanut butter
3 large eggs
1/2 C sour cream
1/2 t pure vanilla extract

Frosting:

6 oz. cream cheese
1/3 C confectioners’ sugar
1/2 t salt
1 C creamy peanut butter (not natural)
1/2 t pure vanilla extract
1/2 C heavy cream
Grape or Strawberry Jam

for basic instructions, click here. I recommend filling these with jam as well as using it on top... more jelly makes it better!

Customer photo

2011-04-23T09:02:00.000-07:00

I just got this photo from a client, I love how she framed out the tiles!

The Grand Opening

2011-04-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

How it all started, Part 1

2011-03-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

My work has become a part of the arts curriculum in the UK. Kinda weird, and totally awesome, huh?
Anyways, I get a lot of emails from students asking me about myself and my career, so I thought I would start laying it all out here.

the original element clay studio

I have loved clay before I even knew anything about it. I saw my first potters wheel in kindergarten. I don't remember the context, just the wheel, and I have had that image burned into my brain ever since. I didn't encounter clay again until high school, and I pretty much lived in the clay studio from 10th-12th grade. I graduated from an alternative school that allowed me to create my own arts curriculum, and so, 2 days a week for my last few semesters, I spent 6 hours in the art studio making pots. There was no ceramics department in my first college, so my love of clay fell by the wayside,while i dabbled in drawing, painting, literature and philosophy, only to be picked up here and there for 7 or 8 years while I dropped out of college, became a chef and then went back to school to find my artistic voice in 2002.
When I started in the art department at UNC-A, I really had no preconceived idea of what I would end up doing, I just started taking classes until I landed back in the ceramics studio and had my moment of recognition. I set about mastering ceramics from day 1, spending at least 2 hours a day practicing on the wheel, at first, and then as I went into the more advanced classes, I was a studio assistant, firing all the kilns, making glazes, learning how to run the studio on top of maintaining a strong practice. I was, and still am, kind of a machine. I wanted to take advantage of this short time I had to focus on becoming a strong ceramic artist. I was in the studio more than almost anyone else.

my work space at the first studio

When I graduated, I took a residency so that I could have studio space, but I hated it. really, really hated it. I did get to take a few awesome workshops and meet some amazing teachers, but i did not belong there, so in early 2007, I secured a large live/work warehouse and set about making a place I did belong. It was big enough to rent to other artists, so I ran the studio and lived for free. I was working 2 jobs,rolling burritos and teaching, while building the studio, and right after I finished, my boss at the restaurant threw a jar of garlic at me and I walked out. I started my Etsy page that week and set about trying to make money actually making art.

Etsy Vintage Finds

2011-03-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

Every Weekend I spend a little time shopping around on Etsy. Here are some Items I found this morning!

From Vintagesupplyco

From Hinsvik


from dejavulongbeach

from holdthewire

Behind the scenes

2011-03-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

Thats's me on TV!!!!!!!!
What a whirlwind this has all been. I was in the middle of moving my studio a few weeks ago when this whole thing started. I was actually sitting on my couch, exhausted and covered in paint, eating a left over chesseburger when I got the call. After spending the entire following day packing up about 100 of my pieces for the art department, it was back to moving and painting before being whisked away to NYC. This was not how I envisioned my first trip to the big city... but hey, free plane tickets & hotels are not something one can complain about!

I learned some things about Television production, some good, some bad. I feel like I am a lot less naive than I was going in. It was so exciting to get a call from a TV show, I was ready to do anything it takes, but in the end, I chose to be strong and stay true to who I am, its gotten me this far!
I got to meet a couple of fellow Etsy artists, eat the biggest piece of cheesecake I have ever seen, watch some buskers in Central Park, go to Times Square and most importantly, film a TV show.
If you missed it, you can find the video here.
You can see more stills here.

This is Todd Manring, check out his Etsy shop. He uses reclaimed wood to produce some lovely rustic modern furniture and accessories. I can see this stuff in an awesome loft apartment, or in a home with lots of mid century pieces, or at the beach...... there is a quiet elegance here.

This is Jennifer. She hand block prints on environmentally friendly fabrics.She makes table linens, pillows and lampshades, and you can even purchase her fabric to make something of your own! Check out her Etsy shop as well.

Hate Mail

2011-03-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

So, I was on the Nate Berkus show this morning, in case you hadn't heard. Barbara Corcoran told me to cover my tattoos. I will discuss this in more detail later, but I thought you guys would enjoy reading my first hate mail.

"I just saw your spot on the Nate Berkus Show. I have to say I agree with Barbara....I would NEVER buy a piece of artwork from someone with that much tatoo inked. I think it embarks a shady character and my first impression is not good. Just my opion, granted, but I think it's worth expressing."

What would your reply be? Should I reply at all?

The Big Reveal

2011-03-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

The work room...

The sitting room.......

There are still some details to take care of, curtains, rugs, little projects here and there........ But there are no more boxes to unpack and everything is in its place. I can't tell you how happy I am to see this space come together and to be able to come in, make a cup of coffee and get back to work.
All told, it was 2 months in the making, lots of late nights and weekends spent painting ( 4 coats on the floor!!!!!!!!) building, moving, and planning. The space is so light and cozy, and I hope to see some of you pop in the door once in a while!
The new space is on the back dock of the Wedge Building, right next door to the brewery.
123-B Roberts St.

Fresh Start

2011-03-10T08:04:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks have been both exhausting and exhilarating. I have redone a new studio space and am just about moved, filmed for a TV show, fired an assistant and gained a studio manager!
    All of these experiences have led me to reevaluate my company, as well as my professional and artistic goals.
My experience in New York, which we will talk about a little later, has given me a lot to discuss, mainly being an "etsypreneur" and how that defines me and my business. I have discovered that my values and ethics, probably along with many others in this crazy DIY, self employed and artistic profession, are not necessarily traditional or even something that the main stream can grasp
    I have gone through a few of these moments since starting the studio in 2007, as I accomplished goals and then experienced the "what now?" moments. I am setting new goals and deciding whats best for me and charting new territory. I have found that what I want is simple:
- I want to grow my business, but I still want to get my hands dirty. This will be in manageable chunks, slow and steady. I can't imagine putting my products in mass production and sitting on a beach somewhere while the checks roll in and little children in china make my work!
- I want to keep learning new techniques and skills to expand my line and keep me out of a rut.
- I want to support the handmade movement and always be a part of it, through my own work, and also being an active part of my community, mentoring other etsy artists and those in my neighborhood.
- And lastly, I want to always be true to myself, personally, artistically and in business.

I hope you enjoy coming along on this new journey. This is such an exciting time!

Heather's Element

Changes are Afoot

Bon Appetit!

Dining Room

Collard Greens

Creamed Collard Greens

Ingredients

Preparation

Reflections on the New Year

The value of things

Holiday Hustle

Souper Easy

Limited Edition

Beet Salad

Mrs. workaholic

New Vintage!

Coastal Living

New Dishes

Being an Entrepreneur

New Vintage

Summertime favorite!

If you invite me to a party this summer, this is what I am bringing. easy and amazingly delicious, it could be a meal by itself.

Panzanella

Ingredients

For the vinaigrette:

Directions

My True Love, Chalkboard Paint

Write the Book You Want To Read

New Vintage

Angry Customers

Fake it 'till you make it.

S'mores Cupcakes. Like WOAH.

Pot(luck) Brownies

Ingredients

Preparation Instructions

Ingredients

Preparation Instructions

Stealing Like an Artist

How cute!

Potluck Wednesday

hmmmmmph.

The Intern From Hell

New Work Preview

Its Potluck time

Directions

Potluck Wednesdays

Customer photo

The Grand Opening

How it all started, Part 1

Etsy Vintage Finds

Behind the scenes

Hate Mail

The Big Reveal

Fresh Start