CONCEPT TO CREATION

Open Studio Evolution

2012-01-25T11:23:00.003-05:00

The Open Studio keeps evolving. Anne Warren will now join the open studio event and will have her beautiful fiber works for sale. Anne will be donating much of the sales of her work to Jewel Heart in Cleveland.

February/Valentine open studio sale and party on the 11th from 1-6.

Artists;
MaryAnn Posch and John Gulyas (Jewelry)
Deborah Woolfork (Jewelry)
Steve and Barb Bloom (Fiber and Soap)
Anne Warren (Fiber)
Theresa Yondo (Ceramics)

Where???
Theresa Yondo Studio
13796 Chillicothe Rd.
Novelty, Ohio 44072
440.338.6219
theresayondo.blogspot.com

OPEN STUDIO FEBRUARY 2012

2012-01-21T09:20:00.002-05:00

OPEN STUDIO

February/Valentine open studio sale and party on the 11th from 1-6.
Artists;
MaryAnn Posch and John Gulyas (Jewelry)
Deborah Woolfork (Jewelry)
Steve and Barb Bloom (Fiber and Soap)
Theresa Yondo (Ceramics)
Where???
Theresa Yondo Studio
13796 Chillicothe Rd.
Novelty, Ohio 44072
440.338.6219
theresayondo.blogspot.com

New Year 2012

2012-01-07T10:54:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to All!

I am finally recovering from the fast pace of the Holiday Season which is becoming a distant memory. With Valentine's Day just around the corner I do not have much time to waste. I am hoping to begin making new hearts for Valentine's Day today. The new construction in the studio is complete and I am almost finished with reorganizing the studio.

When I started teaching privately, I turned over much of my work space to students. A new 10x10 space has been built. This is just enough space to organize the studio more efficiently. I suppose if I did not make my own glazes I would not need so much space but, I just love experimenting with the materials. Maybe I was a geologist in a previous life.

May the New Year be full of just what you need. And, it looks like Chinese New Year is on January 23 and Losar on February 22nd so we still have a lot of time to begin a New Year.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

LAST MINUTE MARKET 2011

2011-12-12T21:36:00.002-05:00

Look for me on the second floor this year.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Next Show is Where?

2011-12-07T09:38:00.002-05:00

The life of an artist-
I am testing my stamina these days and it is great to be healthy. My new plan this year was/is to show work at shows that have short hours and minimal cost. This however has caused the big calendar to go on the wall with dates filled in as to where I am to be on any given day. I need the visual plastered on the wall for my mind to focus on one day at a time!
Below is what this month looks like and I am still teaching at the retirement community which I love and privately in my studio. I can't believe it has taken thirty years to get a good work balance in my life.

Dear Family Friends and Patrons,

Check out all of these amazing venues which support small business and handmade.
December 2nd, Cleveland Artists Holiday Invitational, Friday evening 5-9 opening.
Trinity Cathedral 2230 Euclid Ave, Cleveland Ohio.
December 4th, Lakeside Yachting Club, Sunday Noon-4
4851 North Marginal Road, Cleveland Ohio 44114. Gated club, O.K. to stop by and shop! Drive up to “box” just before gate and press button. Speak into box and let them know you are there for Theresa Yondo and the shopping extravaganza.
December 5th and 6th, Monday and Tuesday, Lakeland Community College 10-2 both days (near cafeteria and bookstore).
7700 Clocktower Drive, Willoughby Ohio.
December 9th, Friday, 10-4, Market Bazaar, McGregor Home 14900 Private Drive Cleveland Ohio.
Community Room, enter main entrance and check in at front desk.
December 9th, Friday evening, 6-9:30. Jewel Heart Cleveland 2670 W. 14th St.
Second Friday Tremont Art Walk.
December 10th, Saturday, 10-3 and 11th, Sunday, 11-5 Trinity Holiday Arts and crafts Bazaar.
Trinity Commons Piazza, 2230 Euclid Ave, Downtown Cleveland, Ohio 44115
December 17th, Saturday 10-6 Last Minute Market
Lake Erie Building at Templar Industrial Park 13000 Athens Ave, Lakewood Ohio.
And yes, I am still finding time to glaze new work. Thank you for your continued support.
Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Flower Brick #3

2011-11-14T09:08:00.000-05:00

How some of the clay work is used!
This is the third image sent to me this year from collectors who "house" my clay work.

I always enjoy hearing how my clay work is being used. Thank you Judi for sending this image of the flower brick with the beautiful flowers and berries. Enjoy!

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

2011 Holiday Arts and Crafts Show at the Beachwood Community Center.

2011-11-11T19:18:00.000-05:00

Shows are in abundance this time of year!

This Saturday I will be at a Holiday Arts and Crafts Show at the Beachwood Community Center.

Saturday, November 12, 2011 ~ 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Beachwood Community Center

25225 Fairmount Blvd. • Beachwood, OH

(One block west of Richmond Road)

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Open Studio at the Screw Factory November 5th 1-7, 2011

2011-11-04T08:31:00.001-04:00

small porcelain bowls about 4 inches round and high
wheel thrown with wax resist glaze application

Room #337 13000 Athens Avenue Lakewood, OH 44107
This Saturday November 5th, I will be a visiting artist at the Screw Factory in Lakewood.
I am so honored to be invited as a visiting artist to the studio of dovecote. The studio of Teresa
Crompton, Sarah Darby and Kathy Patton. See details below.....
The Screw Factory Artists are hosting their one day open studio featuring the work of over 30 artists. They open their studio doors only four times a year. This is not an event to be missed! In addition, the artists will host visiting artists within their studios. The Open Studio continues to grow each year and offers shoppers a chance to get a jump on their holiday shopping.

The building has an eclectic variety of media including functional and sculptural ceramics, drawing, painting, mixed media, handmade bags, fiber arts, sculpture, glass work, jewelry, mosaics and printmaking.
Participating Resident Artists: Ann Caywood Brown, Libby Chaney, Kristen Cliffel, Martha Cliffel, Sarah Darby, Gina DeSantis, Robb Durr, Katie Hanrahan, Freddy Hill (Bomb Factory Furniture), Michael Hudecek (Forest City Portage), Phyllis Kohring Fannin, Sandy Millman (Yours Truly), Michelle Mowery, M.C. Nagel, Mary Beth Norton, Martin O’Connor, Kathryn Patton, Daniel Pruitt, Ryu Sakebi Studio, Kate Tobin & Achala Wali.
Visiting artists*: Andrew Kaletta, Amy Budzar Sebold, Christine Fowler Sheerer, Mallorie Freeman, Phoebe Marie Nelson, Kim Schoel, Ruth Sholtis-Furyes, SBevis Designs, U. Spotts & Theresa Yondo.
The building which houses the studios (currently the Lake Erie Building) was originally built as the manufacturing home for the Templar Automobiles. The Templar Motor Cars will be on display on the 3rd floor.
Food truck Umami Moto will be joining us once again from 2pm-?
Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

November 2011 Shows

2011-10-31T00:10:00.001-04:00

Hello to you all,

It is that time of year again when the shows are in abundance for the upcoming winter festivities.
In November you can find Theresa Yondo Ceramics along with some other surprises at;

November dates-

5th, Saturday 1-7 (The Screw Factory in Lakewood) You can find me in the studio of Kathryn Patton,

Teresa Crompton, Sarah Darby. Room #337 13000 Athens Avenue Lakewood, OH 44107
12th, Saturday 10-5 (Beachwood Arts Council) 4th Annual Beachwood Arts Council Holiday Arts and Crafts Show 10 am – 5 pm Beachwood Community Center, 25225 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, Ohio.

19th and 20th, Saturday 1-8 and Sunday Noon-4 (Charm the Heart in Cleveland Heights) 3124 Corydon Rd Cleveland Hts. Ohio

27th, Sunday (Prosperity Glass! Wear in Cleveland) 1814 East 40th St, Suite 5E Cleveland, Ohio 44103 Call to confirm time at 216-431-7677.

Additional information below!
The Screw Factory Artists’ Holiday Open Studio
by Gina on October 17, 2011
Contact: Gina DeSantis, 440.785.5409, artzy_grl@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.screwfactoryartists.com/
The Screw Factory Artists are hosting their one day open studio featuring the work of over 30 artists. They open their studio doors only four times a year. This is not an event to be missed! In addition, the artists will host visiting artists within their studios. The Open Studio continues to grow each year and offers shoppers a chance to get a jump on their holiday shopping.
The building has an eclectic variety of media including functional and sculptural ceramics, drawing, painting, mixed media, handmade bags, fiber arts, sculpture, glass work, jewelry, mosaics and printmaking.
Participating Resident Artists: Ann Caywood Brown, Libby Chaney, Kristen Cliffel, Martha Cliffel, Sarah Darby, Gina DeSantis, Robb Durr, Katie Hanrahan, Freddy Hill (Bomb Factory Furniture), Michael Hudecek (Forest City Portage), Phyllis Kohring Fannin, Sandy Millman (Yours Truly), Michelle Mowery, M.C. Nagel, Mary Beth Norton, Martin O’Connor, Kathryn Patton, Daniel Pruitt, Ryu Sakebi Studio, Kate Tobin & Achala Wali.
Visiting artists*: Andrew Kaletta, Amy Budzar Sebold, Christine Fowler Sheerer, Mallorie Freeman, Phoebe Marie Nelson, Kim Schoel, Ruth Sholtis-Furyes, SBevis Designs, U. Spotts & Theresa Yondo.
The building which houses the studios (currently the Lake Erie Building) was originally built as the manufacturing home for the Templar Automobiles. The Templar Motor Cars will be on display on the 3rd floor.
Food truck Umami Moto will be joining us once again from 2pm-?
The Beachwood Arts Council is proud to host the 4th Annual Beachwood Arts Council Holiday Arts and Crafts Show on Saturday, November 12, 2011, from 10 am – 5 pm, at the Beachwood Community Center, 25225 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, Ohio.

CHARM THE HEART
One of a kind art gifts
Saturday, November 19th 1-8
Sunday, November 20th 12-4
3124 Corydon Rd
Cleveland Hts. Ohio
Enjoy Meeting and visiting with the artist while you are shopping for your special gift
MaryAnn Posch/John Gulyas: silver jewelry
Wendy McGuffin-Cawley: mixed media
Gayle Burdick: hand stamped notecards
April Firstencel: quilts/handbags
Vivian Vail: beaded jewelry
Barbara Day: terrariums
Catherine Butler: jewelry
Kris Barnes: felted dolls
Theresa Yondo: ceramics
Wendy Mahon: batik
Marianne Hite: glass
Barb Cross: knitwear

Sculptural Clay Oil Cans

2011-10-24T09:57:00.001-04:00

It is always nice when a show uses an image of your work for promotions. The oil can image (top left) is some of my clay work. Not typical of the wax resist that I am known for as this design was created specifically for an NCECA concurrent show in Pittsburgh PA titled Echoes From the Rustbelt. I had so much fun with these oil cans that I continued to make them. Thanks to the Kenan Art Center in Lockport NY for using my image to promote their show.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

BAYarts 49th Annual Juried Show

2011-10-07T10:45:00.001-04:00

BAYarts, formerly known as Baycrafters has come a long way!
The newly organized center has been a joy to visit and as a visiting artist I have enjoyed the enthusiasm of the staff and students.
Tonight the 49th Annual Juried Show opens. I did get a vase accepted in the show. Stop by to see the show which is open until November 4, 2011.

BAYarts 49th Annual Juried Show
October 7 - November 4
Opening Reception October 7th from 7-9 pm
28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, Ohio 44140

Functional Ceramics Workshop 2012

2011-09-29T11:21:00.001-04:00

F.Y.I.

The Wooster Functional Ceramics Workshop in Wooster, Ohio is changing format.
The workshop is still happening but advertising is going out late due to a few changes.
Malcolm Davis
Gail Kendall and
Bill (William) Hunt are the presenters this year.
The workshop is now 2 days and the dates are April 20th and 21st.
Betty Talbott is the contact person for the workshop
Betty Talbott Museum/Artistic Director, btalbott@ohiocraft.org

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

More Skeletons from the Show

2011-09-25T18:03:00.000-04:00

Proper Attire

The Secret to Life

Primary 1 and 2

A few more Skeletons from the show!
See previous post.
Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

New work for the Skull and Skeleton show at Lakeland Community College

2011-09-23T09:26:00.000-04:00

balloon man about 3 inches tall

Shirley O'Neil and I drove over to Lakeland Community College yesterday to check our the current exhibition.

HEY MARY you sure went all out this year. All I can say is WOW.
You can check out the evolving link to the show at
www.lakelandcc.edu/gallery or type the www address in if the link does not work.

Those of you who are familiar with my claywork know I usually use the theme of the heart to make small sculptural objects, not skulls.
I really enjoyed stepping out of my comfort zone to participate in this skull and skeleton themed show. Thanks Mary and Lakeland Community College for the opportunity to participate in this show.
I am a graduate and former adjunct faculty member of Lakeland Community College. Years ago Michael Gentile and I had a two person show at the college when my first ceramic teacher George Somogyi was still the gallery director.
And the spiral of life continues to unfurl---

Of course, these three images posted can be seen at the show.
You can find additional sculptures such as the three church ladies, the thinker and the worker. I will post additional skulls over the next few days.

love hurts

santa

The Skull and Skeleton in Art: Folk Art to Pop Culture..

curated by Mary Urbas

September 15 - November 3, 2011

Artist Reception and Costume Party: Thursday, October,27, 2011, 7-9 pm

This event is FREE and open to the public... The Gallery is located in Building "D", first floor

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

New Hearts at Gestures / August 2011

2011-08-25T14:58:00.000-04:00

New hearts can be found at Gestures Gallery in Rocky River. 20 new hearts, some with lockets and all just waiting for their new home.

Gestures The Fine Art of Giving: 1150 Linda Street Rocky River, Ohio 44116. 440-665-3122. http://www.gesturesshop.com/

Stop "buy" and check them out!

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Look at that beautiful parking area!

2011-08-18T18:03:00.001-04:00

The driveway has been grated, extended and a drain tile laid which will make parking easier when the rain and snow are upon us.

Classes begin Wednesday September 14th and I am trying something new.

Classes run for 2.5 hours and cost $150.00 for 6 classes.

The studio will be open from 4:00 – 9:00. A sign in sheet will be provided for the 2.5 hour allotment.

Project demonstrations will be at 4:00 and at 6:30. If wheel throwing, you must commit to a time in order to have access to a wheel. Reservation accepted upon payment. First come first served.

If you know you will miss a class, plan on staying the five hours to wildly create if you can handle it!

POLICY: There are no refunds for missed classes and missed classes are not transferable for money credit to another session unless a medical crisis or life crisis occurs.

Let me know IF YOU WERE planning on taking class Monday or Tuesday evening. If enough people respond I could add a class.

I greatly appreciate your passion and enthusiasm for clay. Because of you this ancient way of creating can continue to thrive. Contact me for information on projects for this session. I am open to any input you have for projects you would like to create.

We will begin with a bowl.

Contact me with any additional questions at theresayondo@gmail.com

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

The Skull and Skeleton in Art: Folk Art to Pop Culture

2011-08-08T10:11:00.001-04:00

Leather hard skeleton heads

3-4 inches tall

I am getting ready for a show at Lakeland Community College and have been working with skull images.
The title of this post is the title of the show. Mary Urbas is the gallery director and is always coming up with great ideas for shows.

I had way to many ideas circling around in my mind that could not reach my hands in order to birth them into this world. My attention deficit was getting out of control. Often when this happens I go to the library and get movies that I can listen to rather than watch on DVD. It was appropriate to pick up some vintage Boris Karloff movies which were perfect. I popped the movie in and began listening to the macabre story of The Man They Could not Hang and Before I Hang, occasionally looking up at the visual screen of the TV. All in pursuit of the eternal elixir. Perfect for making skulls.

So many things going on right now besides the usual such as, an addition on studio and fixing the driveway by the studio which needed drain tile and regrading. I will be glad when it is done!

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Support the Arts!

2011-07-07T09:53:00.000-04:00

10 inches tall x 6.5 round,
Cone 10 electric fired, wheel thrown,
glaze overlap using wax resist technique.

Another try with taking images of the new work!

I teach classes out of my studio and the photo set up was still out when the students arrived on Tuesday. Thank goodness is was because I was able to get a fresh eye from one of the students. Gayle suggested I use the dark cloth that I had rather than buying yet another darker photo paper roll. The cloth worked for the backdrop.

This image of the new work is very close to the actual glaze color on the surface of the vase. There are so many levels of trial and error when working with clay. I hope that anyone taking the time to read this blog can get a better idea of what is involved with this profession. So, the next time you think that the price of a clay object is to expensive, think again. The time that is involved in getting a lump of clay to a finished and refined work of art or fine craft (whichever you prefer) is longer than you think. Knowing about and understanding this creative process is a great asset to an individual and to a society.

The creative process strengthens the ability to see how actions could possibly unfold. The ability to think this way for the greater good is crucial for a society to flourish and prosper long term.

Please continue to support the arts in whatever way you can.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

That pesty blue color!

2011-07-02T10:38:00.003-04:00

The past few days were spent taking images of work inside under various lights and outside under various camera settings. After buying a new backdrop and changing the white balance settings on my camera, I finally bought new photo blue bulbs which balanced the overbearing and dominant blue color my camera kept picking up. Yikes! The only obvious new variable was this new glaze.

Compare the mug image from the last post to this image and you will see the difference. The only problem is the glaze color is closer to the "real thing" in the dominant blue image.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Glaze and Chemistry

2011-07-01T09:52:00.000-04:00

The last kiln firing was spectacular mostly due to a new glaze I am working with. The glaze is a bit of a celedon and you can just look forever into the glaze and not see the bottom. The glaze is very difficult to "photograph" so I may need to go see Dan Milner who takes amazing images of objects.

This is the first time I did the chemistry for a new base glaze recipe that worked. These recipes are generously handed down to those who wish to explore and study the field of ceramics. Before, I mostly would experiment with only the additions to the base glazes to alter color and transparency. At this point, I am feeling a bit selfish with the recipe for this glaze.

Glazes are tricky and they need to fit a clay body properly or else the glaze can do all those things like crawl and craze. Since I do so much wax resist on the surface of an object to create pattern, the glaze can be a bit problematic. Sometimes, the glaze can be too powdery causing the brush full of wax to struggle and pull rather than glide on the surface of the form. Not this new glaze, the brush danced across the surface. I do hope that this glaze continues to behave. Their are so many variables such as humidity in the air that cause a glaze to react a certain way. Only time will tell.

I will post images of the new work over the next few days.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Art on the Circle 2011 at Notre Dame College

2011-06-24T08:44:00.001-04:00

This weekend you can find me in South Euclid at Notre Dame College. Yes, there is another Notre Dame College in South Euclid Ohio. This venue is very close to where I live and it sounded like the organizers wanted to put on a quality show. To get the show going the juried exhibition fee was a modest $50.00. The current booth fees for shows, some of which can be $1200.00, has pushed me out of the market. Come on folks I am "just a potter". How much do I need to raise the price of a mug to cover my expenses in order to exist in this field. Well, enough of that!-------- "Notre Dame College,

in partnership with the
City of South Euclid, will
present “Art on the Circle,”

On June 25 and 26 Notre Dame College, in partnership with the City of South Euclid, will present “Art on the NDC Circle,” an opportunity for artists to display their works surrounded by the beauty of our serene and picturesque campus. The event will be open to the public, and is part of a weekend of fine arts at the College that includes a Cleveland Shakespeare Festival presentation on Saturday evening. Plan on being with us, and join in the fun."

"4545 College Road
South Euclid, Ohio 44121-4293
Art On The NDC Circle
Saturday, June 25 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 26 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m."

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

HEART WITH KEYS

2011-06-17T10:13:00.000-04:00

You can find new hearts at Gestures in Rocky River http://www.gesturesshop.com/. The theme for this series is Home Sweet Home, Love and Keys. Each time I work on a theme a story forms.

For instance, with Spring comes the season for weddings and graduations. So, I thought the key image would be perfect to work with. Below is the story for the key.

Heart with KEYS -

Yes, it may mean you
hold the keys to my heart.
or- it may mean,
that YOU are about to choose the key
to open the door for your life to unfold.
WISHING YOU A GREAT JOURNEY

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

VASE image 2011 #2 (image of functional work in use)

2011-05-26T07:35:00.000-04:00

Betty holding handmade vase with flowers.

The simple joys -

When
we are no longer fascinated
with our childhood toys,
we
can still find refuge
in our simple joys.

Enjoy!

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Create the world you live in-
Create random acts of beauty.

Memorable Art/Fine Craft Sale 2011 / Saturday MAY 21st NOON - 6:00

2011-05-15T11:40:00.002-04:00

Memorable Art/Fine Craft Sale 2011 before the

Memorial Day kick off of summer shows

Posch and Gulyas

Maryann Posch and John Gulyas – silver jewelry, enamels and much more.
Deborah Woolfork - Sterling silver jewelry featuring fine gems &
hand dyed silks.
Kathy Patton – jewelry line, Smashing, features her work in sterling silver and glass enamel with a focus on bright color, deep patina, and organic shapes."
Theresa Yondo – Ceramics: Finely crafted functional objects for daily use.
Enjoy the day perusing finely crafted works by these talented artists.
Visit with friends and enjoy the atmosphere of a working studio.
More information: 440-338-6219

Where: 13796 Chillicothe Road (ST RT 306)

Deborah Woolfork

Novelty, Ohio 44072 (AKA Russell Township)
When: Saturday, May 21st Noon – 6:00
MAY 21st NOON – 6:00

Kathy Patton

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Hopefully the rain will
subside so parking will
be easier. The weather
forecast as of today is
dry and 70
for Saturday.

VASE image 2011 # 1 (image of functional work in use)

2011-05-14T11:49:00.002-04:00

From the collection of Sharon Grossman.
Handmade porcelain vase by Theresa Yondo
Wheel thrown with wax resist glaze technique

So, its is that time of year again when the flowers are busting out of the ground. You can also find some fabulous flowers at the local store. Thanks Sharon for sending this image.

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

Finestra Gallery in downtown Willoughby

2011-05-04T17:55:00.000-04:00

F.Y.I.

You can now find my work at Finestra Gallery just in time for Mother’s Day. And, interestingly enough, if you collect Troll Beads check out the information below.

Who would have known that Finestra Gallery is the top 7th selling Gallery in the United States of Troll Beads! Designer Nicholas Aagaard will be at Finestra tonight from 6-9.

"Finestra Gallery Welcomes Trollbeads Designer

Posted by Stefanie Toth on Apr 29, 2011 in Event Coverage, Featured

Finestra Gallery, 4076 Erie St., will welcome Nicolas Aagaard, Trollbeads Designer on Wednesday, May 4th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Aagaard is the grandson of the creator of Trollbeads.

Finestra would love to have all of their wonderful collectors at the gallery to welcome Nicolas and to show him how truly great their loyal customers are. Owner Lisa Longo hopes to make this an elegant and fun evening for all.

Champagne & strawberries and gourmet cupcakes will be served.

As a special thank you for purchasing during their Mother’s Day Trunk Show, May 4 to 7, customers will be entered into a drawing to win a $200 Finestra Gallery gift certificate.

Visit Finestra Gallery’s Facebook page.

-Information submitted by Finestra Gallery"
FinestraGallery.com

Mystery Glaze

2011-04-17T11:10:00.003-04:00

What do you do with all those glaze tests? Of course, you pour or dump them all in one bucket and then test the glaze and use it on some appropriate object. Recently, I was working on lowering the melting points of two glazes. The melting point of one glaze became too low and the other glaze was still too matt.
So, I took a few scoops of the matt glaze and mixed them in with the runny glaze to see what would happen and of course came up with a wonderful glaze that is both matt with some gloss crystals. The color is a pale sea foam bluish green which breaks to orange on edges. WOW, could I figure out what I did to get this glaze. Believe it our not, yes I did.

Wheel thrown and Hand built
porcelain clay
7.25 in. tall x 6.5 in. wide x 4.5 in wide oval

The darker glaze is another glaze overlapped on top of the pale sea foam glaze. I will work on tweaking this glaze a bit more and look forward to adding this glaze to my palette of color.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

BARNES COLLECTION AND FONTHILL

2011-04-12T09:49:00.006-04:00

On Wednesday, April 6th, I finally drove to Philadelphia with plans to see the Barnes Collection in Merion and Fonthill in Mercer Pennsylvania. I wanted to see Fonthill for some 30 years and I had to see the Barnes collection before the collection moved to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

I arrive at the Bed & Breakfast about 7:00 P.M. Eat dinner and off to bed.
Thursday morning, I drive over to Merion to see the Barnes Collection. After watching the documentary, The Art of The Steal, I decided I had to see this collection before it moved to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Dr. Albert Barnes worked as a chemist and invented and manufactured silver based compounds to fight infections. He also loved art. His work as a chemist created great monetary funds which allowed him to collect art. Dr Barnes began collecting great works of art in the early 1900's. Matisse, Picasso, Cezanne, Prendergast and Leger are some of the artists in the Barnes Collection (all collected before they became famous). The collection is fabulous! I can barely digest what it is I saw. The collection also has several very large Native American pots. The vessels are about 2.5 Ft. round made of earthenware clay and the brushwork masters the linear repetition of shape and primitive animals these vessels are know for. The collection is displayed a bit quirky and unpretentious as Dr. Barnes personal aesthetics arranged the placement of the objects. Everything is hung more in the French Salon style rather than the Museum style. I loved seeing Dr. Barnes original placement of the objects. I hated the poor lighting. This collection is a must see. Unfortunately the museum allows no "picture taking".

After seeing the Barnes Collection, I drove back to Philadelphia to the Clay Studio and saw the current dinner works show. What a treat! Next, off to see Neil Patterson and Sandi Pierantozzi at their studio. Their studio is very close to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and worth the visit. It is important to see how artists financially function in this world. Neil and Sandi work very hard. They purchased a building and on the first floor is their studio, the second floor, is a classroom where they teach classes and the third floor houses a renter. Below is a small plate I bought at the studio that Neil made.

Small Plate by Neil Patterson

By the way, driving in Philadelphia makes me very anxious. I become this high energy warrior just to get to the next place. Everyone drives 45 in 25 mile zones on windy streets like Lincoln Blvd.
Anyway, back to the Bed and Breakfast which has soothing cats that like to sit on your lap. Another quick dinner and a movie and then off to bed.

Moravian Tile purchased at Moravian Tile Works 2011

The next morning I head to Mercer to see Fonthill. Henry Chapman Mercer built Fonthill. Mercer was an archaeologist (among other things) and loved clay. He started Moravian Tile Works. His home, Fonthill, is a castle like home and was built out of cement and tiled with Moravian Tiles. The tiles are everywhere, ceiling, floor and walls. Mercer inherited his money which permitted him to pursue archeology and the historical documentation of years gone by. It makes sense that an archaeologist would love clay as so many clay objects are found in digs. So, I was able to go on a tour of Fonthill and visit the tile works. Maybe next time I can visit the Mercer Museum.

On the way home, I decided to stay off the turnpike which is very expensive these days and take some back roads. I meandered through Doylestown and Quakertown heading North West until getting on some main roads that led me back home.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

March Madness

2011-03-31T13:08:00.001-04:00

There were many wonderful happenings around town this month. It had been difficult juggling and keeping up with all those things one does in a day. The M.C. Escher Impossible Realities Show at the Akron Art Museum was top on my list. The show dates are February 12th-May 29th 2011. For more information: http://www.akronartmuseum.org/exhibitions/details.php?unid=1761

I also was obsessing about a jar I saw at the Cleveland Museum of Art and did go back to take an image of the jar.

Tea Caddy with Lid, about 1750-1800
England Staffordshire

The Bequest of Nicholas J. Velloney 2003.247-248
Cleveland Museum of Art
http://www.clevelandart.org/

The Cleveland Museum of Art allows patrons to take images of work on exhibit as long as no flash is used. The Akron Art Museum restricts this practice. It is always good to find out the rules so one can "learn to play".

The other amazing happening around town is the Cleveland International Film Festival. My friend Nanci, who is a big supporter of the film festival generously gifted me with a few movie passes. One movie which is well worth watching is titled The Woodmans. The Woodmans is a documentary about the life of photographer Francesca Woodman, daughter of George and Betty Woodman. The movie explores the haunting suicide of the talented photographer Francesca Woodman and the impact such an act has on matters of the heart. The movie also explores how the work of ceramic artist, Betty Woodman, changes after this tragedy. http://www.thewoodmansmovie.com/

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Who Does She Think She Is?

2011-03-21T09:16:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, on P.B.S., I watched the movie Who Does She Think She Is. The movie focused on the plight of women in art today and through history. At this point in my life, as a women in the arts, I found the movie informative rather than disturbing. I suppose the movie helped to put many things in perspective.
Check it out for yourself at http://www.whodoesshethinksheis.net/
I can't let this topic go without writing this. As a women teacher working in the arts, one of the oddest things that was said to me when going to the boss to resolve a problem was you should have been born a man. And, I always loved this one; Oh by the way, I switched your schedule around next week. I know this will not be a problem since you don't have kids.
Three things I can always rely on when working in the arts;
You can be assured that you will always have part time work, get low pay and keep other people in higher paid jobs with benefits.
I do hope one day that people will understand and value the role of the artist in society.

As today's blog is focused on women in the arts, there is another movie worth checking out about the art and life of Seraphine De Senlis. Go to http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1048171/ and you can watch a trailer of the movie. This movie intensely explores the calling and passion that consumes the inner being of an artist to make art.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

More Cups and Mugs

2011-02-26T09:26:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I was hoping to drive to Kent, Ohio to deliver cups and mugs to the 11th Annual National Cup Show. As the heavy snow kept accumulating on the ground and the wind whipped up frenzied snowflakes and turned them into four foot drifts of snow, my hopes for driving to Kent vanished.
The school closed down along with most of the Northern Ohio Cleveland area. Later that day, it was as though the snow storm was just a dream as evening activities continued.

Today, I will again attempt to drive to Kent.
The roads look clear outside and the temperature is 22 F.
So, I will bundle up and off to Kent I go.

Above and below are more images of mugs and cups which will be at the show. Please see previous post dated February 25th for more information.

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

11th Annual National Cup Show March 2-26,2011

2011-02-25T15:01:00.000-05:00

The 11th Annual National Cup Show at the Downtown Gallery in Kent Ohio will be featuring the work of Kent State University Ceramics Alumni from around the nation. All proceeds will help establish a Graduate Student Fellowship in Ceramics.

I will be donating one mug to the Fellowship and providing additional mugs which will be for sale during the show. Anyone wishing to donate to the Scholarship fund just needs to show up with money in hand to donate. Please stop by for the festivities.

Above to the right and below are some of the mugs you will be able to purchase at the gallery.

The size of these mugs are about 5 inches tall x 3 inches wide.

All are made on the potters wheel and with porcelain clay.

The pattern is created by using the overlapping of glazes and wax resist.

These cups to the right are about
3inches tall and 2 inches wide.

Reception:

Friday, March 4, 2011, 5-8

Downtown Gallery

141 East Main St.

Kent, Ohio

330-676-1549

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Heart as Object

2011-02-14T11:01:00.009-05:00

These hearts can be found in the
Boutique at Wall Eye Gallery
5304 Detroit Ave. Cleveland Ohio
For times and access to the Gallery and
Boutique, click on link below;
http://www.walleyegallery.blogspot.com/

How I started making heart objects.

There was a time when I would have never used the image of a heart in any of my work. This overused image of course in the art world can be very controversial. Yet, when I taught Kindergarten through Fourth Graders a bit ago, I forced myself to dissect images the kids could relate to. This helped me to teach good elements and principle of design to those little budding minds.

I then started revisiting artists work like Jim Dine and his heart series which started me on the road to painting hearts with the kids. I have more recently been looking at the use of color in some of Jasper Johns flags as I have been making hearts with a flag theme. I am grateful to these artists who took the time to investigate color in the way they did.

Working with glaze is much different than working with paint. The chemistry involved in making glazes and the variables that happen in the firing process tamper with color results of a glaze.
It is challenging to work with clays and glazes when looking for color!

I came upon making these hearts quit honestly. I intensely studied Buddhism for several years and at one point during this time was invited to create some art work for a show at a local Buddhist center in the Cleveland Tremont area. The name of the center was Jewel Heart. I accepted the invitation and decided to make 108 clay heart objects. The number of hearts was decided upon to represent the number of beads on a mala and with the name of the center being Jewel Heart I thought the heart image would be perfect. I wanted every heart to be different to represent the numerous hearts we come across in this world. After the show, I continued making hearts.

The hearts have become a way for me to explore form, pattern, texture, clay and glaze. In this world where we need to pay rent and feed ourselves, the hearts allow me to continue exploring the numerous clay and glaze possibilities that exist while experimenting with them on a sellable and affordable object.

The Boutique at Wall Eye Gallery is now carrying these hearts. The boutique is also carrying another line of work, bottle cap earrings.
This Friday, stop by Wall Eye Gallery and Boutique for the opening of "It's All About the Heart. On Friday, February 18th from 6:00p-11:00p we will have our opening reception for it's all about the heART to help raise funds for the Helping Hearts Fund." http://www.walleyegallery.blogspot.com/

Thanks to all of you for your continuous support in buying handmade and supporting the arts.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Where to find me on Sat Feb 12th 11 am - 5 pm 2011!

2011-02-07T12:39:00.001-05:00

     Sat Feb 12th 11 am - 5 pm

     1037 Renfield Rd., Cleveland Hts., OH 44121
     Theresa Yondo: Pottery, with one-of-a-kind hearts and
     Bottle Cap Earrings

Also participating;
Gale Astrup
Arline Bognar
Kathleen Calby
*Kathleen will have a singing bowls concert at 10.30 am - 11 am
Deborah Woolfork

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

SHOW ANNOUNCEMENT - GESTURES TRUNK SHOW FEBRUARY 5TH 2011

2011-01-30T09:32:00.000-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL OF YOU!

Gestures Trunk Show Featuring Artist Theresa Yondo, Saturday February 5th from 10a.m.- 4p.m.

http://www.gesturesshop.com/ or http://www.gesturesshop.com/gesturesshop.com/Events.html

Gestures is proud to present guest artist Theresa Yondo and her fabulous collection of hearts for a one-day trunk show on Saturday February 5th from 10-4 pm.

Pick the perfect heart for the perfect person.

This one of a kind gift is perfect for Valentines, babies, weddings and more. Prices range $25-$45.

BEST WISHES FOR A WONDERFUL VALENTINES DAY, T.Yondo

Gestures The Fine Art of Giving:

1150 Linda Street Rocky River, Ohio 44116.

440-665-3122.

http://www.gesturesshop.com/.

Teabowl 2011

2011-01-16T11:26:00.002-05:00

Exploring Japanese words for teabowl!

These porcelain teabowls are at the Stripes Show
(see January 3rd post) $40.00 each
Teabowls also function as a vessel for holding food.

Japanese teabowls come in many shapes and sizes. The Japanese have several different names for a tea bowl such as Banchawan, Chawan, Guinomi, Matchawan, Senchawan, Yunomi. These words have confused me for many years until today. I gratefully found this scholarly link on Japanese terms for ceramic drinking vessels. http://www.unc.edu/~mpitelka/bowl_terms.html

I have a catalog from Bonhams Fine Art Auctioneers on 20th Century Japanese Ceramics titled the Tea Bowl and dated Tuesday 8 November 2005 London. This catalog shows images of just about every teabowl shape imaginable. One thing that most, not all, of the teabowls have in common are their simplicity in surface decoration. My work of course falls into the minority of tea bowls as my highly patterned glazing does not always convey stillness in an object. I see pattern in just about everything.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Stripes - Vases 2011

2011-01-06T10:37:00.001-05:00

The opening of the Stripes show is quickly approaching this Sunday (see January 3rd post). Charles T. Mayer is the Director of the Sandusky Cultural Center and always puts together great shows. I mentioned I would be posting more images of objects that will be exhibited at the Stripes Show. So, here you can see three of the silhouette vases.

Three porcelain vases on view at the Sandusky Cultural Center January 9th - February 13th.

Sandusky Cultural Center

2130 Hayes Avenue at Perkins
Sandusky Ohio
http://www.sanduskyculturalcenter.org/
public hours: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday through Friday
OPENING RECEPTION JANUARY 9TH 1:00 - 4:00

Sandusky Cultural Center - Stripes January 9 - February 13, 2011

2011-01-03T17:57:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year-

It already seems that the new year is bringing much change. Some wanted and some unwanted. But the New Year did roll in and came in with a forceful wind of changes for many.
Today, I drove to Sandusky, Ohio to drop work off for a show titled Stripes. Below is the artist statement for the body of clay work I dropped off for this show-

Stripes – Sandusky Cultural Art Center January 2011

Artist Statement
How thrilled I was to be invited to the Stripes Exhibition.
The use of line in the creation of stripes and also dots has been a main theme to create pattern on the surface of claywork for much of my career.
For this show, my focus was to use stripes as the dominant pattern in terms of number of stripes. For example, an alternating grid pattern of stripes and dots may have several stripes while only having one to three dots on the grid.
The vases were especially challenging to glaze. The use of stripes on the vase draws an additional vase image on the surface of the form. So, you are looking at two contrasting vase shapes within one object. (I will post some images of vases and additional work that can be viewed at this show in future posts.)
The clay is porcelain, the glazes are made in my studio, the pattern is created using wax resist with the glaze although some pattern is carved, and the work is fired to cone 10 in an electric kiln.

I hope you will be able to see the show or join us at the opening.
Sandusky Cultural Center
2130 Hayes Avenue at Perkins
Sandusky Ohio
http://www.sanduskyculturalcenter.org/
public hours: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday through Friday
OPENING RECEPTION JANUARY 9TH 1:00 - 4:00
Sandusky Cultural Center is located in the Sandusky High School complex on the northeast corner of SR 4 (Hayes Ave) and Perkins Avenue.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Last Minute Market 2010

2010-12-14T14:08:00.001-05:00

Check out the Last Minute Market in Lakewood Ohio this Saturday. Cleveland Handmade Market has put this fabulous show together. Be warned! It is a big show with a lot of people. Come prepared with list in hand. I will be somewhere on the first floor. Don't expect the atmosphere of an ACC Show. This show is designed to keep the cost down and create an affordable selling space for people who want to make hand made and sell hand made in an affordable way.

"Cleveland Handmade Markets has invited friends I Made It! Market Pittsburgh and The Screw Factory Artists to help once again enable, and even encourage, holiday shopping procrastination with the third annual Last Minute Market.

The Last Minute Market will be a wonderfully unique shopping destination with more than 80 artists and craftspeople from Cleveland and friends from across the rust belt region. In addition, artists whose studios are in the building will open their doors to offer a peek at their workspace and an opportunity to purchase their work. Don’t miss this Market! Nearly every form of art and craft will be represented, even food!
December 18, 2010
Lake Erie Building at Templar Industrial Park
13000 Athens Ave.
Lakewood, Ohio 44107
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission
9 a.m. -10 a.m. Special Early Bird Admission with a $5 donation to Hunger Network"

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

More opportunities to get out and support hand made artistic endeavors December 2010

2010-12-06T09:12:00.000-05:00

There are a few more events this month where you can shop local for some holiday's that are still to come. These events are popping up everywhere these days.

Thursday I will be at the CYC Club in Rocky River. If you are a member or a family of a member, stop by for some holiday cheer.
Date of Event: Thursday, December 9, 2010
Event time: 6 pm sharp until 10 pm

Friday you can stop by Jewel Heart Cleveland in Tremont

Saturday I will be at Kathleen Calby's house in Cleveland Heights, along with Laura Kulber and Gale Astrup .

Saturday, December 11th from 11 am to 5 pm

Singing Bowls Concert at 10:30 - 11 am

Coming up soon, THE LAST MINUTE MARKET DECEMBER 18TH.
December 18, 2010
Lake Erie Building at Templar Industrial Park
13000 Athens Ave.
Lakewood, Ohio 44107
MORE INFORMATION TO FOLLOW.

Tis the season!

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Gestures Open House and Terra Vista Open Studio

2010-11-27T10:00:00.002-05:00

There are more events planned this week and weekend which feature hand made work by local artists which of course include my work. Thanks to all of you in advance who turn out to buy local and support art and artists and local entrepreneurs.

"Gestures Open House and Customer Appreciation:

COME CELEBRATE OUR 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!
STOP BY TO SAY HI AND KICK OFF YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON WITH US
WHEN:
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 1 5-9
THURSDAY DECEMBER 2 5-9 (I will be at Gestures during this time)
REFRESHMENTS, HOURLY DRAWINGS, AND GOOD FRIENDS
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTISTS COMMUNITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
& MAKE YOUR WISH LIST EARLY
ALSO CHECK OUT GESTURES FEATURED HOLIDAY PLATTERS FROM
MANY OF OUR ARTISTS!"
1150 Linda Street Rocky River, Ohio 44116.
440-665-3122.
Thank you Val and Chris, proprietors at Gestures!

http://www.gesturesshop.com/.

AND

TerraVista Studios is getting ready for the holiday gift-giving season with the much-anticipated 11th Annual Holiday Sale. Also included within the energetic and spirited space of TerraVista Studios during this 3-day holiday event will be one-of-a-kind gift creations designed and created by noted Northeastern Ohio silver and goldsmith jewelers, ceramic artists, fiber artists, woodcarvers, watercolorists and more. The names of well over a dozen guest artists can be found at
http://www.terravistastudios.com/

The TerraVista Studios Holiday Show & Sale
free and open to the public and located at
1400 East 30th Street, Suite #401 in Cleveland
(between Superior and St. Clair, just off the I-90 Superior exit).
Hours are:
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday, December 3rd,
noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 4th, and
noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, December 5th.
Parking is available in the front and side of the building (elevator access is also available)."
Thank you Megan, Lynne, Yumiko and Andrea for opening up your studio!

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Big Box Detox 2010

2010-11-22T13:15:00.005-05:00

This Friday is going to be a bit of fun with the girls and the boy is bringing the cheesecakes, so come check out the Big Box Detox at Blush Boutique on Coventry. I will have small ceramic work appropriate for a boutique setting and some new bottle cap earrings that are turning out to be very collectible.
See you there,
Theresa

Big Box Detox at Blush Boutique

Friday, November 26th, 2010
9pm-12midnight
Blush Boutique
1783 Coventry Road
Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44121

Blush Boutique has been the place to get the hippest, handmade and small-label fashion and accessories since it opened in the Coventry neighborhood last November. And, for one special evening, it will also be the place to get your hands on beautiful, one of a kind works of art and craft made by a curated handful of artists selected by Cleveland Handmade.
From 9pm to midnight you can meet the makers in an intimate environment with plenty of refreshments and conversation on hand. What better way to unwind from a day of fighting crowds and looking for a parking spot at the mall?
Work will include: etched metal art, functional ceramics, mixed metal jewelry, sterling and glass enamel jewelry, collage, and gourmet cheesecake.
Participating special guest artists: Christen Zielski of Copper Leaf Studios, Theresa Yondo, Lori Paximadis, Kathy Patton of Smashing, Rose Anne Jesenovec, and Real Man's Cheesecake.
Blush Boutique is a sophisticated boutique in Cleveland Heights, Ohio on the hip and eclectic Coventry Road. The boutique carries a wide range of women's fashion and jewelry, with an emphasis on independent and emerging designers.
Started in October 2007, Cleveland Handmade is a collective of local artists and craftspeople who sell their handmade wares online. Cleveland Handmade is committed to promoting, teaching, and helping its members, and the Cleveland area.
Cleveland Handmade members’ shops specialize in a wide range of fine and funky craft, including jewelry, clothing, handbags and other accessories, fiber arts, handmade glass, ceramics, paintings, prints, photography, home decor, soaps, candles, and repurposed vintage pieces.
For more information, or to schedule an interview or tour of Blush Boutique with its owners Gina Dudik and Laurie Klopper, please contact Kathy Patton at Kathy@ClevelandHandmade.com

Written by Kathy Patton.

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

This Weekend * Charm The Heart 2010

2010-11-17T12:24:00.003-05:00

Please stop by, we would love to see you!

CHARM THE HEART - One of a kind art gifts

Saturday, November 20th 1-8
Sunday, November 21st 12-4
3124 Corydon Rd
Cleveland Hts. Ohio
Enjoy Meeting and visiting with the artist while you are shopping for your special gift

CHARM THE HEART ARTISTS 2010
MaryAnn Posch/John Gulyas: silver jewelry
April Firstencel: quilts/handbags
Debbie First: author/photographer
Mark Yasenchack: ceramics
Vivian Vail: beaded jewelry
Catherine Butler: jewelry
Theresa Yondo: pottery
Debbie Vail: painting

Marianne Hite: glass

Barb Cross: knitwear
Debbie Apple-Presser: luminaries

Music and Art

2010-11-04T10:17:00.001-04:00

This is too good not to share.
Anyone who loved the music of Buena Vista Social Club needs to check out AfroCubism. The original idea behind the Buena Vista Social Club was actually supposed to happen in Cuba and have an Afro Cuban flare but due to passport problems the project changed.
This is the perfect example of not fighting obstacles and just keep on trying to get there, wherever there may be, as The Buena Vista Social Club was birthed and the Afro Cuban project was put on hold. What a wonderful thing for all of us who just loved the Buena Vista Social Club music. So, after all these years the Afro Cuban project has happened.
For more information, check this out;
http://www.theworld.org/2010/11/03/afrocubism/
Now for the other art side of things, check out the new V & A building that is to be built in Dundee.
What a vision.
http://vandaatdundee.com/your-future/the-winner-is/

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

New Work in Galleries for October 2010

2010-10-27T23:56:00.002-04:00

Never mind working on trying to loosen up shape.
How about stripes?
This vase shows a new direction for my clay work.
After years of working either with contrast or color,
the two are finally integrating.
The stripes are becoming less intentional.
The background and foreground are separating less.
The color acts as a frame work defining the contrast and keeping the eyes within the form.

I sent off three shipments of work this past week.
You can find some of the new style at;
Lillstreet in Chicago,
http://www.lillstreet.com/
Heights Arts in Cleveland Heights,
http://www.heightsarts.org/
The Ohio Craft Museum in Columbus.
http://www.ohiocraft.org/museum.html

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Contrast and Color

2010-10-11T10:50:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, I unloaded a kiln and have been critiquing the results. Adding color in addition to the traditional use of contrast with dot and stripe patterns on form is the current assignment.

Below are some of the results.

The two images above are hand built and show the added red glaze color with the wax resist dots and/or stripes.

The image to the left is wheel thrown and shows contrast without the red color. The pattern on the vase was created using an age old traditional technique of wax resist. I have been working with wax resist to create contrast on clay surface for many years. First, a white glaze is applied. Second, wax is painted on areas of the glaze which will remain white. Third, a black glaze is applied which overlaps the white glaze.

Painting black stripes on the surface has never created the strong black line that I get from wax resist. This wax resist method works for me!

Concept to Creation, Theresa Yondo

Student Work Summer 2010

2010-09-28T10:12:00.005-04:00

A few weeks ago, I took some quick images of student work fresh out of the kiln and before the pots were swept away to their destinations. This morning, I was reviewing the work from the last class session and thought I would post some of the student work.

Tray by KC

Tray and dipping bowl by KC

Mug and Vase by Nakul

Vase or bowl by Gurkan

Mug by Cheryl

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Glen Lake Sunset

2010-09-14T10:39:00.001-04:00

Back from vacation, full of ideas and energy for what's ahead.
It was a bit cold and windy in the Glen Arbor area last week. Winds were 50MPH creating stinging sand storms on the beach. A few brave souls were board surfing and wind surfing on Lake Michigan. Bruce and I only were able to get out two days to kayak and sail. Thanks again to Wendy, Michael and Sam for inviting us up to the lake house. So glad that John and Ian could join us for a few days.
Glen Lake, Glen Arbor, Michigan, United States
Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

An evening of beauty at Glen Lake

Teaching Clay Class

2010-09-02T09:02:00.003-04:00

Teaching out of my studio is proving to be the best thing I have done in years for a teaching gig. I often tend to be withdrawn and private retreating into my creative ideas as they work themselves out. Deciding to open my studio to others was not an easy decision for me.

Actually, this bearish economy made the decision for me as we do need to pay our bills. Wether I have 2 students or 40 students in a class, I walk away with my little bit of income from the class which is dependant on an hourly teaching rate as I have always been hired on a part time basis. When teaching at an art center or college the class of course gets cancelled with only 2 students and this has been happening often as people are not signing up for art classes like they use to. Well guess what, If I have two students coming to my studio I don't need to cancel. Thus, I am able to offer smaller classes and make a better hourly rate with just a third student in the class. The smaller classes have been fabulous for numerous obvious and not so obvious reasons. These reasons might make it onto another blog post.

Part time teaching is financially quite difficult as the cost of living in the United States is very high. Part time work often means minimal benefits if any and definitely no health benefits. The educational system would crumble without part-time or adjunct faculty.

The students are stopping by tonight to pick up the many wonderful objects they made. The kiln is still cooling but I should be able to see inside in a few hours. Such anticipation! I choose these drinking cups to post today as the students have encouraged me to make several new cups for the studio.

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo
Keep Making Pots!

Third Lillstreet International Bowl Me Over Friday, August 20 2010 to Wednesday, September 15 2010

2010-08-18T11:06:00.000-04:00

Once again, Lillstreet Art Center is hosting the Third Lillstreet International Bowl Me Over Show.
Each year the theme of the show changes and this year the focus is functional ceramic bowls.
Lillstreet Art Center is located at the north end of Chicago. This bowl was accepted into the show and fortunately if you can't make it to the show you still can view the show online. This information will follow soon.

Lillstreet is located at 4401 N. Ravenswood Chicago, IL. 60640. http://www.lillstreet.com/exhibition-details/22

The very cool thing about this show is that Lillstreet puts together a wonderful poster of all accepted entries in the show. Thank you so much Lillstreet for all your support which is dedicated to the arts.

Concept to Creation,
Theresa Yondo

Flower Bricks with Flowers

2010-08-15T17:57:00.005-04:00

There are so many flowers in bloom right now in the yard that I spent some time placing flowers in some flower bricks I made a few years back. I make a lot of pots and on occasion will pack and store several of those pots to revisit later. So, with so many flowers in bloom I thought it might be a good time to unpack these pots and to take images of these vases with flowers. The next time I show this work, I will have an image of how to use the vase for the potential collector or buyer. I thought this would come in handy especially if the vase is being purchased as a gift. I often forget how difficult it can be to visualize how to use things.

The big white flower is from a hosta plant and the big green leaf is a hosta leaf. The pink flower is from a rose of sharon tree.

This vase has metal frogs inside to hold the flowers.

Critiquing work is always a part of aesthetic growth. This black with pink blush combination is always a bit difficult to work with when choosing flowers. I think it would have been better to leave the dots off the lid. The flowers seem to be in competition with the dots although this wildflower can handle the competition.

This black and white flower brick is a new vase. It was made earlier this year and glazed last week. I do think this lid without the dots visually works much better. I really never tire of making vases. There are unlimited shapes and glaze combinations to come up with. No two vases are ever identical. Similar yes, identical, no.

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

Plates

2010-08-12T19:06:00.004-04:00

I thought it might be nice to see the plates mentioned in the last post without food obscuring the view.

Ron Meyers

Kirk Mangus

Yes, Kirk has worked with porcelain on occasion and used blue and white. Of course his image is unmistakable.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Garden Delights

2010-08-10T09:15:00.003-04:00

Tomatoes,
peppers,
basil
and husk cherries
picked on Saturday for lunch.
Everything from our garden on this plate
except the avocado.

My dear friend Jeanne and I spent a lovely morning together which ended with lunch at my house. Food served on three thrown plates. From top left, Ron Meyers, Kirk Mangus and of course Theresa Yondo. Kirk was my graduate professor at Kent State University and years ago I took a workshop from Ron Meyers at Cleveland Institute of Art.
Lunch consisted of fresh mozzarella cheese on artisan Italian bread with fresh vegetables and herbs. A side of Lupini beans for salt on these hot 90 degree days. No wine today!
Thanks Jeanne for taking these images.
Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

Kiln Opening

2010-08-09T12:09:00.000-04:00

There is nothing like opening a kiln with intended results. The process of working with clay has so many steps, that keeping focused from beginning to end in the creation process can be very

challenging especially if one's mind travels as much as mine does. Of course, I think this is usual for most artist's. You must be able to see the finished creation or product before it exists. Thus, the very reason for the title of this blog Concept to Creation.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Flower Brick

2010-07-13T10:36:00.001-04:00

I started making vases appropriate for flowering arranging in the early 80's and have often revisited this idea. Vases appropriate for flower arranging is an odd name but so is flower brick. Basically the shape I am referring to has a holder for water and a lid with holes. The stems of the flowers slide into the lid holes and the interlocking stems can easily be arranged to create a harmonious bouquet of flowers.

Maybe the word flower brick originated from brick shapes which held flowers. Maybe vases appropriate for flower arranging originated from some Victorian vase designs. I have never been able to come across concrete historical information explaining these types of vase designs.

Regardless of the proper historical terms or definitions, I just love these vessels. This image is a close up of a vase I made last year.

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

Keep Making Pots

2010-06-28T09:34:00.002-04:00

Life keeps getting in the way of blogging and studio work however, I still was able to get some clay work done like these two vases. One of my mentors, Ron Meyers, often says keep making pots and I think that is very good advice. My wish is that we all can find some honorable work that can help keep us sane.

I am so glad that I spent time studying traditional Tibetan meditation practices because I think my head would have spun off my body this month with all the crazy things that happened. Our beloved dog, Togher, passed on to her next adventure. Dad's aneurysm surgery was successful but it is time for him to enter a retirement community so, he will not be going home. Ahhhh, the whole aging process. The most outrageous news came from the attempted mugging which turned into a shooting of a dear friend Jeffry.

Jeff is a beloved Cleveland Neon artist and we all hope for his speedy recovery.
See Jeff's story just before his release from hospital:

http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/tremont-artist-shot-in-attempted-holdup-speaks-out
and if you can donate monies to help with his expenses a fund has been set up:
A fund for Jeff and Cynthia has been set up at Fifth Third Bank under the Jeffry Chiplis Neon Heart fund. You can make donations at any Fifth Third Bank.

If you're not close to a Fifth Third Bank and would like to mail a donation you can do so. To make sure you get a tax deductible receipt for your donation, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your donation. You will be sent a receipt in that envelope for your 2010 tax returns.
Mail your check or money order to:
Fifth Third Bank
Jeffry Chiplis Neon Heart Fund
309 North Levitt Road
Amherst, OH 44001
Attn: Melissa Hicks

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

100 American Craftsmen

2010-06-02T09:10:00.001-04:00

The 40th Anniversary of 100 American Craftsmen at the Kenan Center in Lockport New York is June 4-6. The hours of the show are June 4, 6-9 p.m., June 5, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and June 6, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Kenan Center is located at 433 Locust Street in Lockport, New York, 14094.

From Cleveland the Center is about a 3.5 hour drive. If you are feeling a bit adventurous, maybe I will see you there. If you are in the area, please stop by.

"The Kenan Center is a 25 acre campus located in one of the most popular and picturesque tourist regions in New York State."
Admission to the show is $6.00. A $1.00 off coupon can be printed at the following link. http://www.kenancenter.org/images/web_dollaroffcoup.pdf

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Dinnerworks

2010-05-10T09:51:00.007-04:00

This Friday May 14th stop by Geode Gallery and check out some great claywork created by a bunch of clay enthusiasts.

These two images of dinnerware show some of the new shapes and glaze work I have been exploring.

The plates are wheel thrown and slightly altered and the glaze is overlapped with a bit of wax resist.

All work is cone 10 electric oxidation and is for sale.

Dinnerworks show at Geode Gallery

755 Starkweather in Tremont, OH. 44113
6pm-10pm 440-667-1651

Nineteen ceramic artists, including twelve local artists, show off their incredible art and craft through a display of unique place settings.
Artists include: Sandy Miller, Todd Leech and Stephanie Craig, Marcia Selsor, Heidi Heugen, Tracy Shea, Carol Ohl, Sharon Wagner, Susan Gallagher, Chris Longwell, Theresa Yondo, George Roby, Lynne Lofton, Bette Drake, Andra LeBlonde, Carla Flati, Richard Aerni, Dolita Dohrman and Yumiko Goto.

Also showing will be
Photographer Steve Cagan
Meet Steve Cagan, Cleveland Activist/Photographer, whose work documents movements for progressive social change, for justice and peace. Featured will be work from Cagan's current projects and selected pieces from his large body of homeless portraits, bird portraits, and industrial landscapes.
and
Clothing from Brigade
Geode gallery is happy to invite Brigade to Tremont! Brigade clothing is high fashion and top of the line, including both independent designers and big name brands with unique styles.

More
new
dinner
ware!

Show ends May 30th. This is a cash and carry show.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

The Business Side of Things

2010-04-21T19:54:00.004-04:00

Making a card to use for a gift insert has been on my list of things to do. So, I spent some time today working on text and cropping images to use on a gift card. The card reads something like this.

Theresa began her first college ceramic class in 1979 and knew then that working with clay would be part of her life. Using clay to explore art and hand made objects began a life long journey. Balancing craft in art in the machine and computer age in order to personalize the object has been and still is quite the journey.
Theresa currently teaches ceramic classes and sells her work locally and regionally.

I was trying not to write a dissertation on knowing the maker of the things we use in our homes but hoping the reader would understand the gist of the few sentences.

Any thoughts?
Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Gestures "The Art of Giving"

2010-04-14T14:52:00.006-04:00

There is a new gallery boutique opening in Rocky River, Ohio. Maybe evolving would be a better description for the opening once the history of Gestures is understood. That however is another story. Yesterday, I dropped off clay work for the grand opening which is on April 17th beginning at 11:00 a.m. The Rocky River Mayor, Pamela E. Bobst, will be part of the celebration with a cutting ribbon ceremony as part of the festivities. The gallery was bustling yesterday with artists bringing in work. Valerie Greathouse, one of the owners, was amazingly gracious with her sincerity and outlook. I look forward to meeting Chris Keener, the other gallery owner this Saturday.

The location and overall handling of the gallery evoked memories of a vacation destination. Check out the gallery and take a stroll in the area. Gestures can be found at 1150 Linda Street, Rocky River, Ohio 44116. The phone number is 440-665-3122 and the www. address is http://www.gesturesshop.com/.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Flower Brick with Daffodils

2010-04-03T11:11:00.002-04:00

Every once in a while a friend or patron will email me an image of how the clay work they purchased is being used. I just love getting these images and messages and revisiting work that has left the studio. My brushwork often is very structured when applying glaze but not on this vase. The loose line and pastel colors fade into the background as the daffodils sing announcing spring.
Thanks to my dear friends Lorna and Susan for sending this image.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Image Transfer on Clay

2010-03-30T16:13:00.001-04:00

I started teaching out of my studio and have been having so much fun. My dear friend, teacher and now student, Anne Warren is taking class and keeping me on my toes. Anne is a wonderful fiber artist herself and is so self motivated. One project we have been working on is image transfer on clay. We are using the book, Image Transfer on Clay by Paul Andrew Wandless, as our guide to explore image transfer. The image above is a tile I glazed and an image Anne, who also has a medical background, chose to transfer onto the clay tile.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Serving Trays with Bowl

2010-03-23T10:38:00.002-04:00

Above two nesting rectangular trays with a small thrown bowl.

Cone 10 electric fired, porcelain.

I have been working all winter on new glazes and designs and I am beginning to see results from all the work. The bottom tray is a new size I am making and will fit a standard loaf of bread. The top rectangular tray is perfect for sushi, asparagus or other snack foods such as cheese and crackers. The bowl is perfect for a dipping sauce or nuts.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

More Ash Glaze Results

2010-03-16T11:43:00.003-04:00

Finally, I timidly glazed the top fourth of this vase with ash glaze as I hate to clean kiln shelves and did not want a melt down with this new glaze. Trying to find a speckled brown glaze that I can live with at cone 10 electric has been nearly impossible. It is not like you can mix paint and come up with the color you want on a canvas. This brown glaze is an ash glaze and has Barnard Clay in the glaze. Luckily, I have about 200 pounds of Barnard Clay that is about 25 years old. I guess it does pay to collect materials you think you may some day use. Although this glaze is made mostly from Wood Ash which can be unpredictable and Barnard Clay (Blackbird) which can be hard to come by, I hope to reproduce something close to this glaze when I make up a big batch.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Ash Glaze in Electric Kiln

2010-03-07T09:00:00.006-05:00

Here are some of the test results from the ash glazes. I used the same base glaze on nine of the tests and overlapped the ash glaze on top. Some of the results are pretty yummy. Originally, I learned to fire my work in a cone 10 reduction gas kiln. When I finally got my own studio together I just did not have the money or the physical energy to build a reduction fired kiln so I went electric. I now fire cone 10 electric. Wow, one the most difficult things I had to let go of was the flame. The flame whipping around in the fire chamber of a kiln is so much of the magic that caused me to become a ceramic artist. Centering the clay and working with the flame became my muse.
In graduate school in 1995 at KSU, Kirk Mangus gave me six pages of notes from his time at Chester Springs Studio in 1991. Most of the glaze recipes I tested this round came from his notes.

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

Glaze Tests

2010-02-26T17:36:00.000-05:00

Looking North East ouside studio window.

Last night I started making a bunch of glaze tests. These containers which you can see lined up on the board are holding the beginnings of what may be new glazes for me to work with. The studio is kept warm using a wood stove and I figured I might as well use the ashes from the wood stove and explore wood ash glazes. So far I have tested a couple of wood ash glazes and the results are very nice especially over another glaze. It is amazing how much wood needs to burn to get enough ash to make a glaze. It is even more amazing the beautiful surface that ash creates on the surface of clay. The process of exploring new glazes is very exciting and time consuming. I started going through all my notes from various workshops and graduate school and reorganizing them. I started separating some by color and some by theme such as wood ash.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Opening at Geode Gallery

2010-02-18T20:37:00.003-05:00

Thanks to Elaine Battles for taking images at the opening last Friday night and gallery owner Gillian Barnes of Geode Gallery for hosting such a wonderful night. Seeing painter Lucette Johnson after all these years was a delight and meeting metal artist Kathryn Patton was a delight.

The opening was very well attended and old and new friends came together.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-09T08:22:00.005-05:00

This Friday, stop by Geode Gallery for an opening of:

The Heart: Icon of Love

Paintings by Lucette Johnson and Ceramics by Theresa Yondo
Join us for hors d'oeuvres and spirits the evening of February 12, 2010 for a show dedicated to the heart! This months Cleveland artists are ceramic artist, Theresa Yondo and multimedia artist, Lucette Johnson. So bring your sweetheart and come soak up the love! WHEN: 2/12/10 6pm - 10pm*WHERE: Geode Gallery 755 Starkweather Ave. Cleveland, OH 44113 directions:
http://www.geodegallery-tremont.com/
*Show runs through 3/7/10.

I created some very special sculptural hearts, clay tiles and petite plates to celebrate the heart image.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Heart image as element in design

2010-02-07T11:42:00.005-05:00

As an artist, it took many years for me to become comfortable using the heart image in my work. The often overused image can be overlooked and not taken very seriously.
When I finally overcame the emotion and feeling connected with the heart shape, I was able to use the shape as an element in design and approach the shape as I would a circle or a line. Thus I was able to make an object and using shape, pattern and glaze, design these small heart sculptures.

These small clay heart sculptures can be purchased at;
JUMA Gallery in Little Italy
http://www.jumagallery.com/ Juma Gallery, 2026 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106, 216.721.3773,

Chagrin Falls Public Library for the month of February
http://www.cuyahogalibrary.org/ 100 East Orange Street, Chagrin Falls - (440) 247-355 and

GEODE Gallery in Tremont
http://www.geodegallery-tremont.com/ 755 Starkweather Avenue Cleveland, OH 44113(440) 667-1651
This Friday evening their will be an opening at Geode Gallery featuring the hearts. More information to follow tomorrow about the opening at Geode. You can also check out the sidebar under events for more information.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Sabbatical

2010-02-01T08:25:00.005-05:00

January passed by way to fast. Usually, I do not get much work started let alone completed in the studio but this January was different. I have entered a self induced sabbatical. I have never had the opportunity to teach full time at any art center or university so I have never received the gift of a sabbatical which every teacher needs. Most people who have never taught have no idea how much time a "good" teacher spends on preparing assignments to stimulate and nurture a students mind. In addition to teaching the proposed subject, teachers are therapists, mediators, coaches and a slue of other things all wrapped up in the title of teacher. Although my sabbatical will be full of work that I have wanted to explore in my studio, I still will be getting a rest from the often unrealistic demands of world.

So, I have decided to practice confidence this year. Every one has there own New Years resolutions they try to set into motion. My resolutions have often had a psychological bent. Confidence that the bills will get paid while I take my sabbatical.

My hopes will be to push my clay work in a new direction, explore ash glazes and rearrange the rhythm of my life.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Transition

2010-01-21T19:34:00.005-05:00

The past few weeks were packed with transitions. On January 5th, I gave my three week notice at work and today was my last day. I spent four years with kids teaching them art. I will very much miss teaching the kids but everything comes to an end and it is time to go back in the studio full time. I will continue to teach here and there as I love the exchange that takes place between sharing ideas and learning new approaches with those who want to learn. This image is some of the art work the kids created. We had big fun making artist trading cards.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Motivation

2009-12-30T09:14:00.003-05:00

Staying motivated in the studio can be a challenge. Take yesterday for example, all I wanted to do was sit by the fire. It was warmer in Juneau Alaska yesterday than where I live in Novelty Ohio. Novelty is just east of Cleveland. Luckily, the library is just down the street from me and I often get movies or books on tape to help lure me into the studio when the call of the clay is not strong enough and life's many distractions are interfearing. The movies play and I mostly listen or the books on tape play and I am transported to some other world. Of course there is music and I have recently been listening to 88.7 which is the college radio station at John Carroll University. I can never answer what my favorite color, movie, music or visual artist is as there is so much information I receive from so many sources that influence me and my work. This is why I leave my profile page on my blog blank.

Stay warm!

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

2009-12-03T23:21:00.006-05:00

There are two more AMAZING shows I will be participating in this weekend.

One is Terra Vista studios 10th Annual Holiday Sale. You can check out their website at http://www.terravistastudios.com/ and you can stop by the show which is at 1400 East 30th St. Cleveland Ohio 44114, 216.523.1387. The dates and hours of the show are Friday Dec. 4th 11-4, Saturday Dec. 5th Noon-7 and Sunday Dec. 6th Noon 4.

And……………The other show is the
HOLIDAY SALE!!!! at Yost Pottery and Tile 1643 Massillon Road Akron, OH 44312, 330.734.0763 www.yostpottery.com/
Saturday Dec. 5th 10-5 and Sunday Dec. 6th 1- 5.
Please stop by and enjoy the friendship and the art.

It is late. I am tired. I hope the information above makes sense. Support your local artist!

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Charm the Heart

2009-11-19T11:15:00.004-05:00

This is such a busy time of year. Last weekend I had a show at Temple- Tifereth Israel in Beachwood in support of learning through the arts and this weekend I have two shows.

One is Friday evening in support of Elizabeth Klonowski Gadus who needs a lung transplant. The benefit is at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church 20401 Hilliard Boulevard, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 and the date and hours are November 20, 2009, 7:00 - 11:00 PM. The price of tickets at the door for this fundraiser are $12.00.

On Saturday and Sunday it is the fabulous and always the best, Charm the Heart. Every year April opens her heart and house to us artists and we show our talent to friends and patrons. This Saturday November 21st 1:00 – 8:00 and Sunday November 22nd Noon – 4:00 at 3124 Corydon Road in Cleveland Heights Ohio 44110 (Corydon and Lee Road by the Library)

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Heights Arts Holiday Store

2009-11-06T09:49:00.004-05:00

I lived in Cleveland Heights Ohio for thirteen years. Those years encompass some of my most fond memories. The circle of friends and contacts I made during those years continue to make me feel alive and a vibrant part of the Cleveland Art Community.

So, a few years ago when I was invited to participate in the annual Holiday Store sale and exhibit at Heights Arts I was thrilled.

Everything by Local Artists Friday November 6, 2009 6-9 PM Members only preview
Open:

Tuesday - Saturday 1:30 - 9:30 PM

Monday 6:30-9:30 pm

Closed Sunday

Sunday December 24: 12-4 pm

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day

Post-holiday hours:

Saturday, December 26, 1:30-9:30 pm

Sunday, December 27, 1:30-4:30 pm

Monday, December 28-Wednesday, December 30, 3:00-9:30 pm

2173 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118
216.371.3457

http://www.heightsarts.org/exhibits#Nov-Dec

Please stop by and support Heights Arts and local artrists by buying handmade.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Organic Line

2009-11-04T13:26:00.002-05:00

Working with organic line was a theme I was exploring in my last firing. There are never ending possibilities of line combinations. Thick, thin, organic, inorganic, broken line and no line. Today I have started prep work for glazing a new batch of work which included cleaning the studio and sorting, washing and waxing pots.
I will soon begin the process of glazing and in a week or so will hopefully have some very nice results.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T17:09:00.003-05:00

This year I stayed home for Halloween. I live in an area where no one comes to the house for tricks or treats because the houses are just to far apart. I did have a visitor though. I was working out back in the studio assembling teapots when I heard a familiar voice but did not see a familiar face. I was so creeped out. I truly did not recognize my own sister Rita.

Boooooooooooo!

Spaces Gallery, Erie Prom: Enchantment Under the Lake

2009-10-29T18:28:00.003-04:00

Spaces Gallery in Cleveland Ohio is once again "throwing a gigantic party full of tons of art made by local artists." Every year there is a theme to the annual benefit and this years theme is Erie Prom: Enchantment Under the Lake. These two mugs have been donated to the benefit so buy a ticket, have some fun and bid on these mugs.

SPACES 2220 Superior Viaduct Cleveland, OH 44113 216.621.2314
Gallery Hours: Tu - Sa: 11 - 5:30 Fr: open until 7 Su: 1 - 5 Free admission during normal hours.
http://www.spacesgallery.org/2009/benefit/index.html

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Teapot and Wabi Sabi

2009-10-20T09:33:00.006-04:00

I recently visited Donna Iona Drozda's blog. Donna was blogging about a workshop she was teaching on Wabi Sabi. Wabi Sabi is a Japanese view of finding the beauty in imperfection. This is a reoccurring topic in the life of many artists. Recently, I revisited this topic with Mark Reibstein’s childrens' book Wabi Sabi, illustrated by the fabulous Ed Young. I used the book to teach collage and Haiku to a group of young ones. The young group easily understood the message in the lesson and the collage assignment of creating a house or area of refuge was easily understood in the context of a secret garden. Many young ones struggle constantly as their minds are often to advanced for the little bodies that they inhabit. It is a good thing for them to understand the beauty in imperfection. In some way, there is a connection between a small child understanding the beauty in imperfection and an artist continuing their work to advance their skills.

Years ago, as a young clay artist, I did find this same analogy to be true. My ideas were way to advanced for the skills I had with the clay. Thank goodness for passion, vision and dedication. I am currently working with this idea in a new series of teapots. By the way, thanks Jeanne for letting me know about Mark Reibstein's book Wabi Sabi, illustrated by Ed Young.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Kent State University, Greetings from Kent

2009-10-13T12:29:00.003-04:00

Greetings from Kent continued-see last post.

The other postcard reflects the time I spent with John Gill and Andrea Gill. Below are the words of remembrance on this postcard.

It might have been 1981 when I signed up for ceramic classes with John Gill. What a great year that was. John’s knowledge and playfulness that he shared in the studio generated explosions of ideas. Thanks John and Andrea for a great year.

Best Always,
Theresa Yondo

Kent State University, Greetings From Kent

2009-10-12T19:05:00.008-04:00

I did my graduate work at K.S.U.

My time there was very challenging as I was working nearly full time and had some health issues going on. I felt like a zombie but did make it through the program.

Kent State University is preparing for a 100 year anniversary celebration and there is a call for artists to submit work for possible inclusion in shows.

One of those shows is titled Greetings from Kent.
"Artists may submit up to two works for inclusion in the exhibition. Works must be 4 inch x 6 inch postcards."

I submitted two postcards one in remembrance of the time I spent with Kirk Mangus and Eva Kwong and the other card reflects the time I spent with John Gill and Andrea Gill. Below are the words of remembrance on this postcard.

Starting graduate school in 1994 with Kirk Mangus was no easy task. Working my way through the program was exhausting. Sometimes Kirk would walk through the studio at midnight. I would take a break and Kirk and I would sit on the couch. Kirk would chat and I would listen. Too exhausted to every reply! Thanks Kirk Mangus and Eva Kwong for helping me make it through the program.

Best Always,
Theresa Yondo

Ceramic Designs

2009-09-30T10:02:00.002-04:00

My electric Cress kiln now reaches cone cone 10 in nine hours since John has replaced the elements.

This image shows a new design which was in the first firing. It is very rewarding when a new design works for me. How many people get to design a bowl or a mug that they think the world could use.

I threw three bowls, trimmed a round bottom on the bowls and then attached the three together. Then I made a bowl for salsa or dip to sit in the middle. I did send this work off to Indigenous Gallery in Cincinnati.

I get to spend the whole day in the studio today.

What a treat.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Indigenous Gallery in Cincinnati

2009-09-21T10:04:00.002-04:00

The next show my clay work will be participating in is titled North South and will feature "a diverse group of emerging and established Cleveland artists". The show will take place at Indigenous Gallery in Cincinnati. The show dates are September 28-November 2 and gallery owner Diane Christian Budd will continue to carry many of the artists work in her gallery after the show dates. The gallery is located at 2110 Madison Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45208. For more information, check out the website at
www.indigenouscraft.com

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Glen Lake Sunset

2009-09-13T16:38:00.017-04:00

Our last night at the Lake was last Sunday and Bruce and I went out at sunset in the Kayaks. I snapped this image at sunset.

Bruce and Theresa on the Sunfish

Michael and Wendy

It is always difficult to leave the lake and we are so fortunate to have Wendy and Michael as friends. They invite us up to the lake every year and we spend a charmed week with them at the lake. Bruce and I headed out of Glen Arbor on Monday afternoon. This much needed vacation did have some work involved. I spent some of the time on some new clay designs and talked with Ruth Conklin about carrying my clay work in her gallery.

Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

Glen Lake

2009-09-06T14:44:00.002-04:00

Bruce and I are at the cottage at Glen Lake in Michigan with Wendy and Michael.
Wish you were here!
Thanks Jeanne for taking care of Marie and Togher T back home.
I will post a sunset when I get back.
Theresa Yondo
Concept to Creation

The Electric Studio

2009-08-31T12:23:00.005-04:00

A few postings ago I talked about my kiln needing new elements. Last night John finished working on my Cress kiln and I could not resist snapping an image of John peeking out of the kiln while he was pinning in the new elements. The Cress kiln I have does not have rings that separate thus you need to climb inside the kiln for any repairs. I will be bisque firing tonight in my beautiful refurbished kiln. The name of John's kiln repair business is The Electric Studio.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Artseen Gallery in Vermilion

2009-08-30T16:04:00.003-04:00

This has been a very busy week.

Today two narrative vessels, one teapot, four small plates and three small bowls are on their way to Artseen Gallery in Vermilion. The show titled

noc members exhibition 2009

will be on view from September 5th - 20th. I will fortunately or unfortunately be missing the opening as I will be taking a wee vacation next week.

Artseen Gallery: September 5-20, 2009. 5591 Liberty Ave, Vermilion,OH. 44089. An exhibition showcasing the ceramic artwork of Northern Ohio Clay artists. Opening reception date: Saturday September 5, 4-8 pm. http://theartseengallery.com/

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Lillstreet Art Center, Chicago

2009-08-29T13:04:00.006-04:00

The Second Lillstreet International Drink: Functional forms for Every Libation at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago opens September 14 and closes October 11, 2009. The opening reception is Saturday, September 19 2009 3-6pm. This jar and pitcher with tray was juried into the exhibition and has been shipped and is on its way to the Art Center. Lillstreet is a wonderful Art Center that offers a wide range of classes in Chicago, IL.

Check it out if you can.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Ohio Designer Craftsmen in Columbus

2009-08-20T20:07:00.004-04:00

Ohio Designer Craftsmen is such a great organization. When I first started marketing my clay work in the 80's, A Show of Hands stores were there to guide my way. The stores have since closed but the organization is still working hard for craftsmen. O.D.C. also founded and still runs the Ohio Craft Museum.

This work will soon be on it's way to the Craft Museum's gift shop which was founded in 1993. Every year there is an annual member's juried exhibition. I had the great fortune to have a pitcher juried into the Best of 1995 exhibition which won a purchase award for the Museum's permanent collection. The museum is located at 1665 West Fifth Avenue Columbus, Ohio 43212
614/486-4402. Free parking is available on the east side of the Museum.

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

Positive and Negative Space

2009-08-11T08:58:00.003-04:00

We all see line differently. Kind of like looking at the clouds with a friend and pointing out what you see in the shape of the cloud. Line is like that too. Especially when people have such things as dyslexia. I avoid doctors mostly because I don't like labels. I never have been diagnosed as having dyslexia, but some days my brain just fires backwards. You know like when I turn left when driving when I should turn right. I think that is why I gravitated toward working with wax resist on the surface of clay. When applying the wax, you are working with line in reverse. You are imagining what the glaze will look like around the line. Definitely a different approach to the surface of an object.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

Small Bowls

2009-08-03T19:06:00.003-04:00

I had so much fun with the plates (see last post) that I thought I would try a similar series of pattern, dot and line with these small bowls. Most of the bowls are only about three inches wide and two inches tall. This size bowl is so versatile. I am constantly using this size for spices when cooking or filling with trail mix for a snack. I am getting ready to stock another gallery so I am busy making and glazing.

My last cone 10 electric firing took 20 hours. Would you say it is time for new elements! The kiln was drawing 48 amps when it should have been drawing 60 amps. I am surprised the kiln even made it to temperature.

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

Ginko Gallery in Oberlin

2009-07-27T20:12:00.002-04:00

Last Friday, I drove out to Ginko Studio and Gallery in Oberlin.

Ginko Gallery is a working fiberart studio and contemporary craft gallery.

Owner Liz Burgess is always such a delight to work with. She is kind, compassionate and such a lover of the arts and crafts. Over the years, she has given me total freedom to explore new work for her gallery and has always greeted my clay work with enthusiasm. Ginko Gallery and Studio is located in downtown Oberlin at 19 South Main Street, Oberlin, Ohio 44074. The phone number is 440-774-3117.

I love pattern and often use the dot and line together to create pattern. I very seldom use image on my work as pattern has always been a bit more meditative than secular images. These small three inch plates are a sampling of some of the clay work I brought to Ginko.

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

Belgiam Tervuren

2009-07-25T23:20:00.005-04:00

I decided I would dedicate this blog to clay and the creative process but occasionally I do need to interject something a little personal.

Yes, today was full of clay delicacies. Ron Meyers was in town and had a show with Bill Brouillard and dinner after the show was very pleasant and most stimulating. I had a few breakthroughs in my studio this morning. I wanted to upload images from the kiln that was just unloaded.

Ultimately, Marie won the night. Today, Marie turned one year old. She is our passionate little one who is still exploring life as any young dog would if given the opportunity. Bruce and I were on a rescue list for the Belgiam Tervuren's but eventually did get Marie from a breeder when no rescue dog showed up. We so want to preserve this most unusaual breed.

Concept to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

ANTICIPATION

2009-07-22T13:47:00.003-04:00

Waiting for your kiln to cool and your tomatoes to ripen.

Concecpt to Creation,

Theresa Yondo

Geode Gallery in Tremont

2009-07-17T08:11:00.007-04:00

The Tremont area of Cleveland is always changing. I was trying to remember the year I lived in Tremont at the corner of Jefferson and Professor in the "City Cabin". Back then, "grandma" was still alive and I would walk across the corner to the bar on Fridays for my lunchtime serving of homemade pierogie. I often was a site as I would work until sometimes 4:00 am in my studio and then roll out of bed around Noon to get my pierogie's before they were sold out.

Not to long ago, a new gallery opened at 755 Starkweather Ave. with the quite clever name of Geode Gallery.

Whose eyes would not sparkle when entranced by a geode.

Upon entering the gallery, I felt the same way as gallery owner Gillian Barnes showed me all the treasures inside. By the way, you can now find a collection of my clay work at Geode Gallery along with many handcrafted gifts from Cleveland and around the world.

Concept to Creation

Theresa Yondo

IN MY ELEMENT

2009-07-15T08:23:00.004-04:00

Ceramic artist's hall a lot of stuff. So, choosing a vehicle is no simple task. When Honda started making the Element I was sure I would be able to figure out how to fit everything I needed in the vehicle to set up for an art show.

I purchased a Yakima car rack which is rated to carry 250 lbs. 8 propanel's go on top and are tied down with a double ratchet system. I am always concerned about safety so, if one ratchet fails the other will kick in to secure the panels.
I was able to fit the secure rods for the propanels, tent, hardware, 11 various tubs of clay work, 3 or so additional display shelves and a small cooler. I carry very little additional stock to sell for two reasons. One, the economy is so bad that you just do not sell as much at the shows as days gone by and with the use of the Internet, images can easily be posted of your work and shipped to a collector.

I did figure that I fell under the weight restrictions for hauling in the element but do plan on changing the transmission fluid in the vehicle every 20,000 miles or so to keep the transmission running strong. Only time will tell how everything holds up.

The past four years have been quite a challenge. I am so thankful to all of you out there who so generously share information and ideas to help keep us all sane in these sometimes crazy times.

Concept to Creation
Theresa Yondo

Narrative Vessel - Just out of the kiln

2009-07-09T12:44:00.005-04:00

Here are a few more Narrative Vessel's I unloaded from the kiln today. I will have these at Cain Park this weekend (see blog archive June 22). Exposing and staining the clay is so freeing in comparison to the glaze and wax resist I usually use on the surface of the clay.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Narrative Vessel

2009-07-07T00:10:00.008-04:00

Occasionally, a narrative vessel will find it's way into my clay work. The function of the vessel on the table humbly steps aside to make way for a comment on the function of the psyche. This is one of those occasions.

The form represents the mountains we all climb in life. The smooth indentation represents the caves we all take refuge in from time to time. On this form the spout and handle suggest the social niceties we all engage in although the spout on this form does not have a hole for the tea to flow so the cup can never be filled. The object is thrown, hand built and paddled. Air inside the vessel is used to steady the shape while the pliable clay is paddled and pushed. My hope is that you can enjoy the story as the object talks back.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Cain Park Arts Festival 2009

2009-06-22T09:48:00.006-04:00

Cain Park Arts Festival is just around the corner. On Friday, July 10, 3-8, Saturday July 11, 10-8 and Sunday, July 12, Noon-5. Saturday and Sunday $2.00 entry, Friday night free.

I have been working hard in the studio getting ready for the Cain Park Arts Festival. Please stop by the festival and see what is new in my clay work.

Cain Park is located at Lee and Superior Roads, Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation

Commitment

2009-06-18T20:57:00.005-04:00

Teapot

February 2009

It is hard to believe that it has been nine months since my last post. When I started blogging I was sure that I would blog at least twice a month. I am often questioning my commitments as to where my time goes.

As a clay artist, I am back in the saddle again. After recovering for about three years from the outdoor street fair circuit which I used as venues to show and sell my clay work, I am creating other venues to continue my clay work. It is a long process to figure out what works and what does not work.

I will close with an artist statement I wrote back on February 25, 2009.

I make clay objects. Functional, whimsical and decorative objects, to use enjoy and collect. The fluid clay is shaped pulled and pushed using hands and potters wheel to become the object. Using glaze , brush and liquid wax, the surface of the objects transfer into a sheet of patterned glass when fired. The objects are high fired to cone ten. Porcelain is the clay most used but I do work with other clays and firing ranges from time to time.

Theresa Yondo

Concept to Creation