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Vickie's Voice
 Vickie Resso is one of the founders of the Pinole Artisans. This is her page!
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Tuesday, 31 January 2012 16:08 |
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Vickie's Voice
Thinking back over the past few years of Pinole Artisans programs, I am quite pleased with the great variety and high quality of our speakers and teachers. We've had such interesting, inspirational artists sharing their technique and life stories at our monthly meetings. And some of the best have been our own members. How cool is that?
Bill Lake and I have served on the Programs Committee for a few years now, and I am thinking it may be time for some new blood. Bill has already officially resigned, but I whined and cried sufficiently for him to agree to stay until we found his replacement. This could be a good job for a member who enjoys talking to artists in the Bay Area. It's not a difficult job. But it does require an ability to keep track of bookings and finding out what equipment may be needed (projector, laptop, microphone) and lining them up before the monthly meeting. An ability to act as a friendly ambassador is a must. I would be happy to surrender my position to some capable person as well. It's been extremely rewarding. But sometimes you've just got to move on to do something different. I am willing to stay on as the technician in charge of camera, projector, etc.
If you are interested in taking on a rewarding volunteer job of coordinating the programs of our monthly meetings, please call me. Time required: Minimal. Rewards: Maximum.
Keep creating!
Vickie Resso |
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Friday, 30 December 2011 17:26 |
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We wrap up 2011 with a whirlwind of excitement, hard work, and warm smiles. A lot of people need to be thanked. Our board of directors have carried a lion's share of the work load for the Pinole Artisans, and some dedicated members have pitched in an made special events happen. But why would anyone want to add themselves to the "thank" list for next year? Because, because, because.
Number one, it's what is required to make any volunteer organization work. Number two, because if you believe in our common goal which is....do we remember what it is? Oh yes, we do. It's to promote the visual arts in Pinole. Why? Because art is important in a society. Any society. And number three, it's GOOD for us as individuals.
I invite you to make 2012 the year that you jump in. Take the plunge. Volunteer. Get involved. Teach a class. Work on a committee. Make new friends. We need fresh ideas for programs. We need committee volunteers for events in 2012. In other words, Help! You are wanted. Programs: At our January meeting we will welcome Mike Kendall from Benicia. He is a very interesting artist from Benicia who works in metals, making sculptures large and small. See his work at: http://www.mikekendall.com
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Sunday, 27 November 2011 19:21 |
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Have you ever had an opportunity to connect with people with a passion similar to yours? And what was the result? You probably had a lot to talk about, relate to, share. it is satisfying to find a kindred soul that understands your own excitement for creating.
December's potluck will be all about connecting as we create. Bring a favorite dish to share. Enough to serve around 6 people. You don't have to cook for any army. We will have a relaxed, casual evening of food, sharing, and some fun activities. William Green will share a little about percussion instruments as Jean plays the piano. We will have a couple of tables set up for art related games and a collaborative art project. One quiet table where people can just sit and chat, enjoying a hot cup of coffee and some dessert. What more could we ask for than a nice evening with friends to launch the month of December. We will wind down the year in great company. It's going to be a fun evening. Hope you will join us.
Here's some news about Michael Alford, former Pinole Artisan Board Member. At last I heard from Michael and he is living on a farm in East Texas. Not surprising, he is still involved in photography and has joined a local art group. Here is the web site to the art group in Winnsboro, TX. http://www.winnsborocenterforthearts.com/
Keep creating!
Vickie
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Saturday, 29 October 2011 19:42 |
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When there is a shift in one’s interests or pursuits, it’s always interesting to see what rushes in to fill the void. As I move away from fine art painting, doing more things on the computer for work and for fun, I feel a tinge of regret and, yes, guilt for all the paints drying in their tubes and brushes gone unused while I decide if I may return to them someday.
As I find less enthusiasm for teaching children’s art, I feel myself fed with sheer pleasure when I paint faces and arms, both small and large. Instant gratification! A piece of finished art in 10 minutes, a delighted customer grinning ear to ear, and a bowl full of ones and fives. Now THAT’s what I’m talking about. While speaking with a pro face painter at the Sausalito Art Festival, she said, “Skin is easier to paint on than canvas.” I think I agree. And besides no one expects perfection. They are enchanted by their newly disguised selves. In a few hours it will all become just smudges on a warm washcloth, except there was mom lifting her cell phone to grab the event to keep forever in her phone photos. It’s just for fun. Exploring this new medium brings a lighter side to my too-serious self. I think it’s just what I needed.
Keep Creating!
Vickie
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Thursday, 29 September 2011 21:11 |
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Hamburgers and hot dogs at an art supply swap meet. Art, wine, music, and the laughter of children in Fernandez Park. A gallery buzzing with activity. A classroom filled with smiles and the smell of glue and paint. This is what makes life good. Thank you to all who make this group run. Volunteerism is alive and well within Pinole Artisans. And I am very happy to be a part of this dynamic group.
What about You? If you’re not actively involved in some part of this wonderful group, you’re missing out on an opportunity to deepen your connection with our art community. Not only do we need volunteers to make this machine run, our volunteers will bear witness. You GET more enjoyment when you are GIVING your time and talent.
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Get ready for our SECOND silent auction and fundraiser dinner at Chevy’s on Thursday November 17,, 2011. Put the date on your calendar and start thinking about what you can do to make it a grand success.
We need plenty of art donations. Earrings, necklaces, packs of cards, photos, fabric art…all kinds, small and large. We will happily accept your donation. Again, we will have two wonderful weeks of Time Share Vacation Accommodations available for bid. We will be supplying invitations that you can personalize with the names of your friends, neighbors and family members on the invitation. Handing it to them will make it even more personal. It will encourage them to support your art by supporting your art group. These invitations will be available at the October meeting and at the gallery. They should be handed out 2 weeks before the event, around the 1st of November. Earlier than that is probably too early. People tend to forget. Just think. If each of us invited five people, there would be hundreds of people personally invited to our event. Let’s work together to make this event great!
What can you do?
Donate: Call Joan and donate a piece of your art
Invite: Deliver or mail five or more invitations to your friends and family. Pick up invitations at the next meeting or at the gallery.
Volunteer: We need many hands to set up quickly and clean up afterwards. We need servers, monitors, and greeters. Please let me know if you can help.
Last time the Chevy’s event was a blast. Don’t miss it!
Keep creating!
Vickie |
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Tuesday, 30 August 2011 16:24 |
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I am sure most would agree that our children need art. Not only need it but desperately want it. Someone told me recently that when her grandson goes to his art class he “floats through the door.” She didn’t have to explain what she meant by that.
When Joan and I visited art facilities in surrounding communities to promote Pinole Artisans’ Art And Wine in the Park, we discovered William Greene at Vallejo’s Art Center, performing with his art camp kids. They were using the percussion instruments they had made in William’s art class There were rain sticks, maracas, drums, and shakers. I took one look at the kid’s faces and said to Joan, “We need to talk to him.” William is a pre-school teacher and an artist. He has a real gift for working with children and it shows.
Under William’s direction my young art students are making their own instruments during two sessions and will be performing at Art and Wine In The Park on the Sunday, August 28th. I hope you will go to see and hear the results of our August Art with Vickie (and William) classes.
William has joined Pinole Artisans and will be offering his own classes as I back out a little from this routine. Please help me recruit more teachers for our art center. The needs are still great.
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Friday, 29 July 2011 23:53 |
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Hey, can you spare some change? I am happy to report that the change that you have been putting in our jar for the past three months amounted to just over $215. Thank you for your contributions!
If you haven't seen the Pam Glover exhibit in the Hearst Gallery at St. Mary's College, I highly recommend it. It was my last day off to prepare for my three sisters' overnight stay before we leave for Tahoe. My house is in its usual state of semi-organized chaos, but worse than normal due to Mike's bathroom remodel project. I squandered that last precious day on a day out with Joan, enjoying a panel discussion by those who knew Pam well, and the exhibit itself. No regrets. My sisters will understand, I'm sure.
Have an ARTFUL summer. Visit a museum. Paint with your grandchildren. Be creative!
Vickie Resso
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Sunday, 26 June 2011 17:06 |
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OK, so it's not all about money, is it? I was told that some of our members are getting tired of constantly being hit up for dollars to keep our gallery going. I agree! For me, our art group is about far more than the gallery. It's about education, encouragement, and making ourselves better artists by sharing our love of art. But we live in the real world. We do have to be on the lookout for ways to survive. Ideally, we would seek resources from OUTSIDE membership. Please help bring fresh ideas to bring money in so we can continue to be a presence in Old Town Pinole.
We will be holding another silent auction in November. And we WILL ask members to donate art of all media. Small, inexpensive items are welcome, along with higher priced items. Some people would love to bid on items $20 and under, so it's great to have jewelry, packs of cards, fabric items and gift items as well. We will start gathering donations in October. Watch for more information.
In other news, The Board of Directors has approved a scholarship budget of $1,000 per year. These funds will be designated for educational purposes. 1 ) to pay for people who would like to take a class at Pinole Art Center and cannot afford the fees. 2) as a scholarship award for high school or college students who are studying art, and 3) participation in local art competitions such as the high school show sponsored by the Richmond Art Center.
If you or someone you know would like to take a class and is unable to do so because funds are tight, please call me, Linda Thomas or Bill Lake. The Scholarship Committee is just now rolling, so we plan to make our first awards to students next spring. If you are interested in serving on this upbeat committee, let us know. |
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Friday, 29 April 2011 21:43 |
TIME FOR SOME CHANGE!
Get on board this coin train and help fill our piggy banks. I scoffed at the idea when I first thought about it, but then I looked at the glass fruit jar of coins on the top of my fridge, and realized there was probably around fifty bucks in there. Gee if just 10 people gathered up the loose change in their houses, and it added up to more or less fifty bucks, well, you can see where I'm heading with this. We will collect change for the next two or three meetings. Happily I found out that our bank will accept coins unrolled for their counting machine for a flat fee of $3.50. Whooooo-hooo! So don't bother to roll them.
OR, you can drop your change off at the gallery. Kelly Plumb brought in a cute bank, so drop it in there.
OR, if you have so much that you just can't carry it in, call me, for Pete's sake, and I'll bring a fork lift and take it off your hands.
This is yet another painless way we can support our group. Lighten your pockets and unburden your purses.
A LITTLE CHANGE WILL DO US GOOD!! |
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Tuesday, 05 April 2011 00:08 |
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I HAVE A DREAM, TOO!
So here it is. A new year., new day, a new leader and new board members. I am happy to see new members, and additional talented people willing to serve on the Board.
I am also concerned for the future of our art center. Without public support in the form of city budgeting assistance, it will be difficult to find enough funds to pay our expenses. The City is struggling to keep city services such as fire and police. I don't think an art center will be high on their list of priorities. Nevertheless, we are still here. And the day will come that we will have to make hard decisions about what to keep and what to let go.
OK, if I'm going to dream, I want to dream big. So I see in our future a new building on donated land, bright with large windows and ample space for local artists to create. I have dreamed this for years. It will happen. Just wait and see. Maybe not in the form I expect, but it will happen in some form.
There is someone (maybe more than one) in our group who can make a big difference in our future by giving a substantial gift to our non-profit organization.
Share this dream with me. Create the bridge to our future by forging the path. Talk to people. Some will laugh. Some with scoff. Some will say maybe. And one will say, "I think I can do that". |
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Monday, 28 February 2011 23:59 |
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 We have some very exciting programs coming up. I hope you will join us this Friday, March 4th to hear Edna Cabcabin Moran speak to us bout the creative process and publishing children's books. I met Edna at a Hawaiian dance festival in San Francisco. Edna is a beautiful student of hula and Hawaiian culture. Her stunning illustrations will inspire you.
Back by popular demand! In April, our own lovely Janette Walthers will give us another fun hands-on evening of playing with polymer clay. Just in time for Spring, we will be making some beautiful leaves. This is a make-it, take-it project. If you'v never seen what magical things can be done with polymer clay, I promise you with an evening of delight and surprise.
At our May meeting, Ray Marshall, author of "Paper Blossoms", will join us to share his paper pop-up books. I recently purchased a copy of this book. I challenge you to open the pages and NOT smile. It's delightful. Five large pop-up colorful bouquets will bring Spring into a room, no matter what time of year it is.
June will bring Archie Held to our group to bring a slide show and talk about his art career. Pinole Artisan worked with Archie on the Pinole Shores Business Park public art project. He designed and created "The Wave" metal sculpture visible from San Pablo Avenue. It was a great experience working with him. He is a respected artist with installations all over the world. We are fortunate that his studio is right here in Richmond.
If you know someone you think has an interestng art career to share with our group, let me or Bill Lake know. And, what about YOU? Our group loves demonstrations, slide shows and speakers in our own group,. Talk to us if you would like to provide a program for Pinole Artisans. |
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Monday, 03 January 2011 21:08 |
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I want to say thanks and a big hearty one at that. So THANKS to everyone who helped with the Holiday Party in December. Bill Lake, Joan Landis, Joyce Yamada all served on the committee, rounded up nice gifts from the local merchants, and were there for decorating, organizing, cleaning up, errand running and everything else that needed to be done. It wouldn't have happened without them. Thank you, also to Aaron David Cole, who was our official photographer, and to those who donated prizes.
It was great fun! We had a wonderful entertainer who juggled and balanced and tossed in such amazing ways, we were mesmerized by his wit and ability. Daniel Holzman, is a record holder in the Guiness Book of World Records and has appeared three times on the Tonight Show. Very impressive!
The table decorating contest entries wowed the diners with creative interpretations of our theme, "Art". (what else?) First prize went to Joan Landis for her tabletop rendition of "The Boating Party", complete with costume, tiny boat, a river made of ribbons, and a little black dog (stuffed). She set quite a standard for the future. The other entries were all wonderful, creative, and imaginative. There will be photos posted soon.
There were many winners of raffle prizes, door prizes, silent auction bidders and live auction bidders. Thank you one and all for dropping dollars into the bucket to make the evening a success.
Don't miss the event next year. It's a major fundraiser for our budget, and a big hoot to boot! We will announce the theme soon to give everyone plenty of time to come up with extraordinary table decorations for next year. |
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Tuesday, 30 November 2010 22:18 |
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Friends, we are at a financial crossroads. In order to keep our sweet little art center, we have to make some big changes. I've been thinking about this article for a couple of months now, and in my mind, I have formulated the following list of ways that we can painlessly (almost) support our organization.
1. Shop the gallery. You have friends and family and they all want gifts don't they? Well, there's no better place to get a special gift for your special someone. Unique, reasonably priced, and it comes with a story, as in, "yes, I thought you would love this, and it was made by one of my artist friends."
2. Tell everyone about the gallery and the organization. The more members we have, the stronger we are financially and the more we can do in the community. There are still tons of people who say "What? Pinole has an art center? Where is it?"
3. Ask loved ones to donate in your honor. We all have too much stuff, don't we? I know I do. So when people ask me what I want for Christmas, birthday or Mother's Day, I'm going to tell them to "make a small donation to my favorite charity! My beloved church or my beloved Pinole Artisans." It would honor me. Of course, large donations would be acceptable too. If you insist.
4. Collect art for your own enjoyment. We have some really great artists in our group. I've bought several pieces of jewelry, some metal sculptures, boxes, cards, quilts, paintings, photos, pottery, scarves, and other art pieces. When I look around my house and see something made by one of my artists friends, it gives me a really great feeling.
5. Remember Pinole Artisans in your will. Huh? Yeah! Rich people do it all the time. Us un-rich people can do it too! Leave some bucks to Pinole Artisans and your love of art will keep giving after you're gone. Sure your kids will get most of it, but a piece for our organization would be a legacy to be proud of.
6. Make a tax-deductible donation this year! Some of us are not in a position to give money to charity. We're just getting by. I'm not talking to you. I'm talking to those of us who can comfortably afford to put some money in an organization that has brought support and joy by way of art. But since we are a non-profit this is an honorable way to give money for your own benefit! Say "sorry" to Uncle Sam and give what you can.
7. Donate proceeds from a class. Do you teach classes at Pinole Art Center? Consider giving the profits from just one class each year to the Art Center. It's a write-off on your taxes and a great way to say thank you for a nice room to do your teaching.
8. Support our fund-raising events. If there are still seats available for the holiday dinner Friday, December 3, please call Pinole Art Center and make a reservation. I want to fill the hall and I guarantee a great evening of food and fun. And come to all of our events.
I'd like to hear your own ideas about our future. Pinole Art Center will stay alive only if we breathe life into it. It's up to us. Happy Holidays to everyone. |
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Tuesday, 09 November 2010 20:17 |
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If you missed the field trip to DiRosa Preserve in September, I want to encourage you to go on your own. I could kick myself for waiting this long to explore this wondrous place. Twelve of us were inspired, amazed, awed and simply delighted by Rene' DiRosa's collection of art beside his beautiful lake in Napa.
We were sad to learn that Mr. DiRosa passed away just about two weeks after our visit. He was elderly, fragile and had been in a care facility for some time. Nonetheless, I salute you, Mr. DiRosa, for your forward thinking, your love of art, your support of Bay Area artists for many years, and for donating your marvelous collection for all the world to enjoy. May you live forever amid the best art that heaven has to offer!
We will have more field trips. I learned long ago that families are not necessarily knit together automatically. It takes an investment of work and time to get people together in an atmosphere that fosters trust and comfort. It was a great day, with a picnic brunch and time for calm conversation and smiles. Then we were off for the tour. I can't describe the collection. You've just got to go see it. And I hope you find the sam inspiration that we did. Keep creating!
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