Sharing More Inspiration...

A Scarf and a Story...

This is a Story of Inspiration...

A Scarf and It's Roots....

This is a Chocolate Castle!

Oh and I found this other scarf on Etsy that deserves some attention:

Have a beautiful day.

Perfection

This photo was taken at the Ann Rudd Art Center.

I am reading The German Genius. Last night I was inspired by an essay I found titled “What Knowledge is Conveyed by Art?” It is about the development of a society and its influences. To give you a time reference, arguments in the essay dated from 18th Century German theory. (the concept of the mind was relatively new) Being an artist, I loved its point of view on perfection; that it isn’t a static quality inherent in some things and not others. It was studied rather, that perfection is in the force of the spirit. I wanted to share some of the ideas with you.

 

This photo was taken at the Ann Rudd Art Center.

Scholars had determined that there was an inherent creative energy in the mind. The word “aesthetics” was developed to describe the relationship between experience and creation. The question was asked, “What type of knowledge is conveyed by art?” It was the perception of a few that reaching perfection in your senses it is possible, but not like in mathematics. A picture or a poem was described as a sensuous representation of an image of perfection. By this definition it is achieved in the act of creation. They decided an artist is someone who epitomizes his own time while attempting to change and improve them. As I was reading, this theory helped weave together a lot of my own opinions on art, and artists that I love. To give a few examples I’ll say musicians like Led Zeppelin, or an artist like Frida Kahlo, or Jeff Koons. I know these might strike you as kooky examples, but bear with me. If you’d prefer I could think of a world leader I’d put in the “artist category, like Nelson Mandela.

This is the Art Center too.

The essay goes on to say that each creation of genius results in an expansion of consciousness, opening the path to the creation of a better world, enabling us to transcend the present. I think this expansion of consciousness happens to both the creator as well as the audience. The trick is for the audience to be receptive to what is being shown. The question I ask is, “When these opportunities are presented are we always paying attention?” There is this other guy, Mendelssohn, who says that there is a special faculty in the soul, that functions solely in the regard to beauty, enabling man to respond to it, or “know” it, and recognize it in a way that analysis never could. This further supports the notion of “perfect” but not like “mathematics perfect.” It is the soul that predisposes man to a higher culture. These arguments hold so true today. I say this because it is my opinion that science and technology, while extremely important to our society, are tipping the scale of importance.

Art Center also.

Later perfection is defined as the achievement of harmony between inner life and outer life. I think this is something we all struggle with, whether or not we fancy ourselves creative. The essay describes a masterpiece as a harmony between spirit and (human) nature. It is where the individual comes together with the general. As an artist I try to work simultaneously with both. As a human in society, who wants to enjoy my life, I work with both. This work is never complete. We’ve heard this before, but the essay states, “the perfection is in the journey.” (It is evident that we’ve been trying to tell ourselves this since the beginning of time.) “And the perfection is in discovery.” I, myself, find immense joy in discovery.

The last point I would like to share is, “Art, like history, has an infinite realm of future possibility… The future can only happen through conscious acts… It doesn’t just happen; it needs to be fashioned, fostered, and crafted.” These ideals had a powerful impact on the German intellectual history during the 18th century and after. Last night it gave me a renewed sense of energy and excitement about what I do. I love art. And the history of the world and its people will always be educational and inspirational.

New Sign

So the whole point of this post is that I made a new sign for when I go to craft shows. From the photo you can see it is much more than just a sign. There is sculpture in there. I'm stoked on it. Here's why.

For the past couple of shopping seasons I have done holiday craft shows. They have always been pretty low-key. This year I tried a big show on for size. By a "big show" I mean $$$ entrance fee, four days, vendor ammenities... the whole nine. As I was reading over the criteria for the show they had a lot of rules. One that caught my attention was that you couldn't have a hand-written/stenciled sign. It had to be professional. At the time it was two days before the show and I'm reading that thinking I'm screwed. I can't afford to pay to make a sign for the show. I've already paid to be there, and paid for transportation, and lodging. It all adds up and I was starting to feel in over my head. Then I changed my thought track. (a good practice to remain sane) The sign I use to use definitely falls into the "unacceptable catagory", but why can't I make a new one? Why do I think professional means plastic and laser printing? Once I relaxed I remebered I am a professional. It just so happens that I make things with my hands, not a computer. And that is totally fine. So here is my kick-ass, handmade, professional sign. I thank the show host for the encouragement. Otherwise I would still have my old sign, which was pretty amateur. I taught myself a lesson here and I hope the experience will be inspirational for others too. Try new things, and grow, and get in over your head. What you'll find is that you can bring yourself and your product to the next level more effectively than you think.

New Tricks from Old Friends

Those were the good old days, when people used to get together and sew. Now sewing is an individualized sport. I spend most of my days solo in my sewing studio, longing for the stimulation of other like minds. That is one of the reasons I decided to ask some crafty friends of mine to sew scarves for me. It has been really fun for me to show them how I do what I do. They each took my instruction and then went their own way with it. You can see all of the results on my etsy site. Each one of us five girls has a style all our own.

During this project I kept very open to how other people might do things and I picked up a few new tricks. I'm so glad I did it because it has helped me to keep my own style fresh and ever-evolving. When you are on your own and in your routine, sometimes you don't realize what you are doing is becoming very "routine." 

One day Lauren and I were comparing scarves. I noticed that she sewed on her four-hole buttons in two straight lines. I sew mine in an "x." We both laughed at ourselves because neither of us had thought to do it the other way, but it was such a simple concept. Likewise when I saw the scarves from Cassandra I noticed they had a soft, fuzzy texture. I really liked the chunky grain on this light fabric she used. I asked her where she got it. She said that she had taken sweatshirt fabric and turned it inside out. I smiled as I thought, "no kidding, sweatshirt in reverse." You know I'm going to take that idea and go places with it.

I'm beginning to realize how important it is to have friends, and share ideas. The more tips I learn, the more I'm working and thinking, "What can I turn upside-down or inside-out? What material haven't I used yet?"

I often have to remind myself that it is OK not to innovate all the time. Being open-minded can make you so much better at being you. I mainly apply this thought to my sewing, but it works for life too. I don't do anything any better than anyone else, just different.

Details

I've been watching this series on PBS. Obviously, it is called "Craft in America." For anyone that is not familiar, it documents the lives of American artists of a particular craft. The people on the show are just wonderful. Everyone's craft and personality are very different from one show to the next. I can even get my husband to watch it. Of course marriage is always a compromise, so it's one show about art for one show on the military channel. ( I would love a combo-show, "Crafting in the American Army") Last night one of the artists said something that really hit home with me. It was, "Being an artist means mastering the materials of your craft in order to express your heart."
This statement really puts it into words for me. I make scarves. Maybe your thinking, "no big deal." But I really put all of myself into each one. Every piece is different so I give it a personality of its own. Unfortunately this can mean way too much time is spent on one piece. The problem is, I don't feel complete until I feel the piece is complete. I want to be satisfied and I want the consumer to be satisfied. It is far better to spend an extra 10 or 20 minutes on something and really be proud of it than to rush through it.
This is my third season making scarves and I've really been inspired by small details this year. It's about getting into the piece and using five or six types of fabric and adorning them with handmade buttons or vintage beads. I really want anyone who buys my piece to feel special when they wear it. I want an individual to feel like I made it solely for them. Each scarf has a voice. Eventually one will speak to you.

Here are few examples of where I've been going this season:

This piece is actually available now

http://www.scgeraci.etsy.com/

This piece will be available at Hello World, Philadelphia.

This piece will be available at Hello World, Philadelphia.

No factory can produce the level of quality and aesthetic that an individual craftsman can. If you would like to be inspired further, as I have, watch that series on PBS ( Netflix too)

HERE IS WHAT PBS HAS TO SAY ABOUT IT

We have a deep sense of longing for the handmade. Perhaps because each of us, in our own way, has had a craft experience. Sometimes it’s an object passed down to us, or one that crosses our path, and connects us to others in traditions, heritage, and rituals.

Craft gives pleasure as well as function. It is inspirational as well as useful. It is the best representation of who we are as a culture. Craft is democratic. It is broad enough to accommodate anyone who makes something or appreciates the handmade. Craft is all around us. You’ll find it wherever you look – hiding in plain sight.
Craft in America offers you a place to explore these connections and to inspire your own creativity – through the PBS documentary series and this website. Join us on this voyage of discovery. View the programs online or purchase DVDs of the Peabody Award-winning series for your home library.

Kids Vintage

This is a photo of some of my favorite retro cookbooks. I rarely cook from them, but I love them. Actually, I draw more inspiration for painting or sewing from these pieces than for food. The next shot is one of my favorite pictures.

Isn't that a riot? Something about the late 50's/early 60's is so appealing to me, a 21st century girl. I love using themes and trends from time past to create a lot of my hoods and scarves. The trick is taking theses characteristics and using them ever so slightly to add vintage flair to a modern piece. Sometimes I start with the button, but in this case I've found some killer fabric.

This red mini-floral reminds me of cherry pie and cola in a bottle. The red, white, and blue is also very Americana.

I found this plaid print in the bottom of my gram's sewing closet. That is about as legit-vintage as it gets. I can't help pairing plaid with another repetitive print. I need contrast.

So I've got my materials and I'm ready to sew the pieces. But I'm thinking to myself, "What is more cute than a retro hoodie hat?"

"Duh, a kid's retro hoodie hat."

Anything in a tiny version makes me melt. So what this adventure of inspiratrion turned into was a pair of kids hoods. I couldn't imagine anyone in 1961 actually wearing one of these, but it makes sense now.

 

Thanks for checking in with Florida Scarf.

Vacation Inspiration

I spent Labor Day weekend celebrating my fifth anniversary, in Napa Valley, California. I knew it is gorgeous there, but I wasn't ready for how gorgeous it is there. To sum it up, my husband and I had the best time. As you can see in the photo we stayed in perfectly rustic, and romantic, lodging. Yes, it does still exist, going by the name Mountain Home Ranch. I fell in love with the scenery and lifestyle. When I got home, I had to put together some fabric combinations inspired by the trip. For me it's a form of journaling, or remembering the trip. I want to render the surroundings of California through my scarves.

So a few of the pieces shown above were influenced by Napa, but there are two outstanding ones on the right. They are my San Fransisco ones. What a great city that was. We only spent one afternoon there, but it was enough to be inspired by the bridge, signs on Market Street, and the bloody mary bar at Hobson's!

California had so much to offer it was hard to some-up in a single style of scarf. The pieces inspired by this trip will be as varied as the offerings of California. By the way, I think the climate in California was made with a Florida Scarf in mind. In Napa, it was so chilly early and late, but warm in the middle. Likewise, San Fransisco runs about 10 degrees colder than its surrounding towns. I was glad to have my favorite fashion accessory. My neckwarmer was cuddly when I needed it, and tucked into Phil's pocket when I didn't.  

Stay tuned to my etsy account to see my Cali-Florida Scarves for sale!

http://www.scgeraci.etsy.com/

Introducing Cassandra Helton

Just as before, I would like to announce that Florida Scarf is no longer a one-man band.  Some friends have joined to allow for more creativity and ingenuity in scarf manufacturing. Now instead of a single influence, our designs encompass the inspirations of five people from five different places on the planet.

This is Cassandra. She is a fashion designer and boutique owner. With her clothing line, Helton Hill, Cassandra breathes new life into awesome vintage finds. Her home and studio are located in Portland, Maine. Her boutique, The Closet, is in St. Augustine, Florida. Cassandra’s style has a sexy European vibe mingling with classic American vintage. Through Florida Scarf the artist has highlighted some of her favorite prints and paired them with bright and cozy fleece. At our website you can shop her vintage innovation.

http://www.floridascarf.com/

Want more of Cassandra's solo work?

http://www.heltonhill.com/

Introducing Lauren

As mentioned earlier, there are more women sewing for the company than just me. This is the first installment of their introductions.

Welcome Lauren.  Most importantly, she is an abstract painter. Here is one of her paintings.

As in her painting, Lauren brings sweet serenity to Florida Scarf. Her purity is evident in the things she loves, like sunrises, yoga, sand in between her toes, and paint in between her fingers. She draws inspirations from living on the coast of Northern New Jersey. What we love most about Lauren is her offbeat sense of humor that erupts at the most unexpected moment. She adds this surprise and splendor to each of her designs. An example of which is featured below.

To shop more of Lauren's scarves go to http://www.floridascarf.com/

Inspiration From Paradise Lost

Every piece that I create is one of a kind. Because of this I will often get special requests for hoodies, or scarves with very specific themes. The piece featured above is a perfect example of that. I recently created it for a friend who marvels in American Tiki. He is a man quite sensitive toward this lost culture and I had a lot of fun delving deep in its roots to make my first Tiki Man Hoodie.

My first step was to start combing thrift stores and yard sales. The goal was to find a remnant that once helped to shape urban polynesian style. Fortunately I didn't have to go any further than my nearest thrift store. There I found the perfect shirt, straight from Hawaii itself. As you can see I took the liberty of adding the tag to the design as proof of authenticity.

In looking for further inspiration for the hoodie's composition I came across interesting facts about the lost culture. For instance, it used to be that every major city in America had a Polynesian Palace. In the 20's and 30's primitive art was adored by artists of the avantegarde. The God Tiki was their muse. Even Picasso himself owned a Marquesan Tiki. The style of modern primitivism found mass appeal to the middle class after WWII. The whimsy and bohemian personality of the sub-culture really started to catch. So where did the suburban savage go? Apparently he turned into a "Parrot-Head." The 70's and Jimmy Buffet are attributed with the "watering down" of Polynesian style. The Tiki Bar started to get knocked by culture critics as an embarassing fad. And by the 80's it was over. Geez, what didn't the 80's kill?

So that's what I learned about Tiki, in a nutshell. Thanks to Seth for the incentive to do this.

"Suburban Savage"...has a great ring to it. Don't you think?

Artistic Inspiration

I read this great book a while back. Actually, there were more pictures in the book than words, so I should say I "enjoyed" a book. It is called A Year In Japan by Kate T. Williamson. She is an artist that lived in Japan once, just to experience it. The book was adorable. Her illustrations in it were so precious I have never been able to forget them. While I was putting together my most recent batch of hoodie hats the book popped into my mind and inspired me to create this new piece. I get so excited when I make a piece that has such an enormous inspiration behind it. Imagine, Kate had to go all the way to Japan, stay there for a year, write a book of illustrations about it, publish the book, wait three years for me to find the book in the library, then buy the book, then become inspired by the book's imagery six months later, and finally make a hoodie about it. (phheww!) These kinds of connections in the universe amaze me. There are two parts of the book in particular that this piece brings to mind. The first is a peeled mango on a stick. These can apparently be purchased from vendors in Japan. I think that's lovely. And what a genious way to eat a mango. The second inspiration comes from her pages about how beautiful she found the night sky to be. I wish I could remember her exact words. At least the imagery stuck with me enough to bring about another one-of-a-kind creation.

                 Picture by Kate

If you are intrigued at all about Kate her website is http://www.katetwilliamson.com/.