With Valentine's Day and Mother's Day in the not too distant future, there's still plenty of time to order personalized one-of-a-kind gift creations from Artist Alley.

Shown here is the work of Moore County Artist, Bobbie Barnes. Bobbie creates customized family trees, and she's also happy to incorporate your favorite words and sayings into her work.

For last minute gift giving, a collection of her inspiring original work and greeting cards is available too.

February First Friday: Art That You Wear

Just in time for Valentines Day, please join us as we celebrate the "Art That You Wear" on Friday, February 6th from 5:00 - 9:00.

Our North Carolina Jewelry, Clothing, and Accessory Artists will be featured; many will be delivering additional one-of-a-kind creations for this event; and all are looking forward to meeting you! (You can expect to see Christy Clark of Silverwear Jewelry, Debbie Keen, Patti O'Day, Jefferie Cade, Diane Ness, and Others.) Since we all know that art and refreshments go hand-in-hand, an array of delectable goodies will be served too.

I hope to see you there!

Artist Alley Holiday Event Schedule

Please click on the image below to view our lineup of holiday happenings here at Artist Alley.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving!

I've been lost in the sweet jumble of preparing Artist Alley for the holiday season, and I have so much for which I am thankful. At the top of my list today are my friends, both old and new. Many of these kindhearted souls exhibit their creations at Artist Alley. They selflessly share their creativity, time, friendship and wisdom; and I am grateful for it all.

More posts will follow this season with oodles of details about happenings at The Alley. For today, I have only two more words for you.

We'll be hosting a "Holiday Extravaganza of a First Friday on November 7th, and I promise that more details will follow.

If you'd like to extend your weekend of artistic fun in The Sandhills, please also mark your calendar for the Saturday show at The Country Club of Whispering Pines. A few of your favorite artists from Artist Alley will be in attendance. You can expect to see Kathleen Miller, Amy Smith, Charlie Oliver, Jaeja Jackson, Wayne Black, and Yours Truly too.

I hope to see you at both events!

2008 Final Call for Artists

Artist Alley announces its final call for North Carolina Artists in 2008. Artist Alley, located at 167 E. New Hampshire Avenue in downtown Southern Pines, currently represents the work of more than fifty North Carolina Artists and Fine Craftspeople. These include jewelry makers, sculptors, painters, potters, glass artists, wood craftsmen, and others.

“We display an amazing array of affordable artwork here at Artist Alley.”, explains gallery owner, Jean Skipper. “Our body of work evolves constantly as our existing artists continue to express their talents while new artists join us. With a deadline of November 14th, this call for artists represents that last opportunity that North Carolina Artists will have to join The Alley before the holiday season. Specifically, we’re seeking watercolor painters, metal artists, and additional glass artists; but North Carolina Artists in all media are welcome to apply.”

Founder Kathleen Miller adds, “Artist Alley was established as an artists’ coop in Moore County in 1999, and the gallery continues to maintain the cooperative spirit that’s been the foundation of its success. There’s a sense of community among the talented individuals who showcase their work here, and they freely share their welcoming spirit with others.”

Information and applications for this call to artists may be obtained by contacting Jean Skipper via the comments on this blog. Please be sure to leave your email address in your comment. It won't be published or shared; but it is needed so that a reply may be sent. Applications are also be available in person at Artist Alley.

Artist Alley is located in downtown Southern Pines at 167 E. New Hampshire Avenue. It’s a gallery that exhibits a wide variety of art and fine craft all made exclusively in North Carolina.

Today I'm smiling..

Today I smile each time I notice the ring on my finger.

Yes, I know that it may not be the most practical ring; but I love it! This whimsical fish bead was made by my friend, and fellow artist, Debbie Keen. I've included him in my new line of copper rings. I know that I'm prejudiced; but they're absolutely fabulous, and some type of movement is incorporated into each one.

Kinetic wearable art and little purple fishies...of course I'm smiling!

Auction for Carol

Through the magic of the Internet, I've become involved with an auction to benefit an amazing woman named Carol. Carol's is a courageous woman with a story that will touch your heart. The flyer above will provide you a bit of her story. (Click on it for a super-sized view.)

Also be sure to visit the site for yourself...and bid too! You'll be helping someone who could use a hand-up, and you'll enjoy some amazing artwork as well. An image of my donation for the auction follows:

Meet "The Art"

Most days you'll find Art greeting you here at Artist Alley. And while we do have an amazing variety of Art that's been created by more than 50 North Carolina Artisans, today I'm referring to "Art" our official mascot and doorman.

Art followed me home this spring from a show in Asheboro, NC. He was created by Asheboro artist, Mike Durham. (Mr. Durham, if you're reading this, please contact me!!! Art is getting tons of attention, and we'd love to have more of your work here at Artist Alley. Art would enjoy the company too.)

My Studio Companions

When I create, I'm extremely grateful for the company of my studio companions. Coco, Gracie and Cody are regulars by my side. Coco, our Chocolate Lab, makes her presence known by occasionally nudging her head into my arm. (This photo of Coco is not the greatest; but then of course she prefers not to have her photo taken.)

Gracie is less subtle. She tends to use my lap as a springboard to make a grand entrance from the formica table in the center of the room into the middle of my work area. Then she settles in wherever she pleases...ON whatever she pleases. In most cases this puts her directly in the middle of the project at hand, and generally my view is one of her tail.

And finally, there's Cody. Cody can usually be found inside one of my vintage train cases or playing with whatever shiny parts, pieces and treasures catch his eye. Ahhh...a boy after my own heart!