Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Interview with WHOHUB....

What is your specialty?

I have been a successful craft designer for over 25 years specializing in whimsical Holiday gift ware. I encompass several forms of media in my work from sculpted to painting. About 5 years ago I dabbled in gourd art and that is where I have found creative freedom. Since I have been producing massive amounts of gourd specialities for local and national shows.

Where can we view your portfolio online?

I have a web blog where I post my work on a regular basis and I am also on Facebook, Halloweenartists.com and Gourdenthusiastist.com. I also use this to allow my clients to view upcoming designs and place custom orders if they are interested. since most of my designs are one-of-a-kind they cycle through pretty fast.


What made you interested in design?

I have always been artist. From an early age, I was introduced to art and design through my parents and grandparents. Creativity flows throw my genes. I have been blessed with a unique perspective of the world I live in and am glad to share that with everyone.

What has been your professional career path?

Upon graduation from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I began my career in the fashion industry as a fashion illustrator. When things began to go bust in the 80's, I was fortunate to land a position as an art director for a small printing and advertising firm. From there things have evolved in the printing sector, however, I continued to design and paint for my own personal enjoyment.

Have you received any awards for your work in the field of design?

I have received newspaper design awards for the creation of newsletters and tabloids. In addition to taking 2nd place honors at the Ohio State Fair.

What is your motivation? What makes you get up in the mornings?

Life in general. After loosing a parent and friends at an early age, it makes one appreciate every day we spend together.

How would you define your design style?

My design style is folksy, whimsical. My paintings had been compared to Grandma Moses and of late to her grandson, Will Moses which is quite the compliment. Often too patrons have said I have a Tim Burton style to my Halloween creations. I think it is all the twisting gourd vines I incorporate in my pieces.

How do you promote and move your work?

I currently participate in local art shows, my blog, e-bay, the Internet artist circles and in galleries.

In which new areas would you like to experiment?

I LOVE all forms of art. I am often questioned about the many techniques and products I offer. I would love to learn glass blowing, and more on art dolls. But I currently have more than enough on my plate along with a full time job.

Shapes, color, concept: where do you usually begin when conceiving a design?

My favorite designing is for Halloween. I do a lot with gourds and the gourd determines the design. Several factors come into play, I usually don't have a preset idea when I sit down at my drawing table. On occasion I will sketch ideas that pop into my head. I never quite sure where they come from other than childhood memories and everyday inspirations.

What are your sources for documentation and to generate ideas?

Nature, the Internet, vintage postcards and mainly life experiences.

Which festivals or awards in your field do you find most interesting?

Festivals. Art and Craft festival lending more towards the arts. I love the interaction with people who admire my work. I have developed quite a following in the few shows that I do attend.

What is your favorite type of customer?

Animated. I love meeting new people and hearing their take on some of my designs. they usually don;t hold back and tell me, "hey, have you ever tried ..." If I find their suggestion interesting enough, I will do the research and you most likely will see something similar the next season.

To a certain point, is copying justifiable?

Copying, no. Taking inspiration from an others artwork, yes. There are a lot of talented people in our world and there is entire set of folks who will pay for a pattern to reproduce your designs. Then copying is ok, but I'd rather see original artwork. I hate to attend shows to see the same products at half a dozen different booths.

List some things you dislike seeing in design.

Poorly produced and lack of professionalism. I never did understand paint thrown at a canvas and declared artwork. If ones has to explain it, to me it is not worth it.
Do you believe the newer generations are better at designing?

No. With the use of computers and new technology, many are simply regurgitating up old ideas - true talent seems to be missing. Like everything else, designs run in trends, and trends will repeat themselves. True talent takes more than operating a computer or digital camera. Creativity is part of your inner core, a sixth sense and an eye for composition.
With which type of client would you decline in working for?

Have you ever fallen into the trap of producing something based upon the subject matter to get a sale, when the subject matter trumps your values? I learned that lesson the hard way, and the project just never seemed quite right for me. It left me exhausted and disappointed regardless of the fact that the client loved it. I find myself being stifled when I have to create something to exact specifications. I need that creative licence to make something truly exordinary and be happy with it. Which is exactly how I view my Halloween art. Let me create and then you can purchase. Instead of cookie cutter structurered design; be prepared to be treated, Halloween comes just  once a year!

How do you calculate budgets for a design project?

Budgets or the pricing of my work is simple. Materials x 4. It is usually based upon something I have already produced. Some of my designs take a lot longer than others. When I produce for a season I am producing multiples (usually 12 at a time) of one design. I could never recap the cost of time involved on some designs, therefore I charge a little more on some and a little less on others. It has worked out fine for me in the past.  If I really like the way it turns out, I may add up to 10% more because I know it will be a valued item. My enjoyment out of creating to me is priceless.

Which professionals in your field -contemporary or past- do you most admire?

There are several that I admire. Flora Thompson from Bone Head Studios, Scott Smith from Rucus Studios, Bethany Lowe, Johanna Parker to name a few.

Which software applications do you most utilize in your work?

Don't laugh...Word. I can do some amazing things with this software...and photoshop elements.

Up to what point do your designs reflect your personality?

I'd like to think that each of my designs reflect my personality. Lots of fun, love and laughter, and little bit kookier. I give them all names and they evolve into that character. It is like having a baby and watching it grow as it takes shape.

How do you distinguish passing fads from mainstays in new trends?

I'm not big on passing fads, I go with the color pallets, but other than that I am my own style. Whimsical-Vintage

If you weren't a designer, what would you be doing?

Definitely an art teacher. I love kids and art. It is a perfect combination.

At this moment, what would be your dream job or project?

Dream Job. Where I can design, produce and sell my work to those who truly understand and appreciate that when I produce something I am giving away part of myself. To be able to leave behind my 9 to 5 office job and trade it in for bibs, t-shirts and flip-flops. And naturally to make lots of money to support this addiction!

Can you see yourself in this field twenty years from now?

Until I die!

Which design resources online do you frequently visit?

Not many. I like to cruise through artist links and check out their websites or blogs.

Monday, November 7, 2011

2011 Christmas Ornies

Get your whimsey on with one of these hand crafted gourd ornies for 2011.

$12.95 each
(includes tax and traveling expenses)

Introducing....
Santa, Percy the Penguin, Snowman and
                       Christmas Moon

2011 Santa Gourd Ornament by Carolyn Lockwood

Santa...created from a dried "coyote ball" gourd. Hand sculpted  features and stocking cap accent this little guy. He has been hand painted in acrylics with a dusting of glitter. Measures approx 3"-3.5" tall. Comes with a monofilament string ready for hanging.




2011 Snowman Gourd Ornament by Carolyn Lockwood

Holiday Snowman...created from a dried "coyote ball" gourd. Hand painted features and sculpted stocking cap accent this snowy friend. He has been hand painted in acrylics with a dusting of glitter. Measures approx 3"-3.5" tall. Comes with a monofilament string ready for hanging.

2011 Winter Moon Gourd Ornament by Carolyn Lockwood


Winter Moon in stocking cap created from a dried "coyote ball" gourd. Hand sculpted stocking cap and hand painted in acrylics with a dusting of glitter. Measures approx 2.5-3.5" dia.





2011 Percy the Penguin Ormament by Carolyn Lockwood

Percy the Penguin...created from a dried "mini pear" gourd. Hand sculpted head and features  accent this little guy. He has been hand painted in acrylics with a dusting of glitter and a vintage red garland scarf. Measures approx 3"-3.5" tall. Comes with a monofilament string ready for hanging.

All items are OOAK and are for sale. Please notify me by e-mail if you are interested in purchasing at lynlockwood@aol.com. I will send you a Paypal invoice upon receipt of your order. I accept Paypal, money orders and personal checks in USD only. Items will not ship until personal checks are cleared. Please allow 7 days for clearing. Orders paid with a Money order or through Paypal will ship upon receipt.


♥ Payment must be made (or sent) within 3 days.

♥ Ohio State residents must pay 6.75% sales tax.

♥ Pricing includes shipping within the continential US via priorty post US Mail.

♥ Due to the nature of my seasonal designs I do not offer refunds, and ALL SALES ARE FINAL.

*Due to the nature of using natural gourd products, some products will be available on a very limited basis. * Please allow 6/8 weeks for delivery on custom items…4/6 weeks for in stock items * I reserve the right to substitute similar items for out of stock items: ON ACCESSORIES/TRIMS AND FABRICS ONLY. * Sizes and colors are approximate & may vary. * All items are handcrafted; no two will be exactly alike lending to the uniqueness of my products. * Most items are made to look old with a vintage style.





Skinny Santa Collection

Whimsical Skinny Santa's are headed to town! Handcrafted one-of-a-kind gourd Santa's created from banana and spinner gourds. There are 12 included in the collection. All come signed and numbered. Each has hand sculpted facial accents, arms, and stocking caps. Some feature feather trees, miniture dried gourds, and handcrafted elements. They are all mounted on wooden bases, hand painted in acrylics and fake fur accents.

Choose from:
2 Available order #A


1 Available - Order #B

3 Available with Snowman Shaker - Order # C


Order #C w/bucket

4 Available with goose feather trees - Order #D
Not Shownindividually: Santa with stuffed kitten - Order # E
 
All items are OOAK and are for sale. Please notify me by e-mail if you are interested in purchasing at lynlockwood@aol.com. I will send you a Paypal invoice upon receipt of your order. I accept Paypal, money orders and personal checks in USD only. Items will not ship until personal checks are cleared. Please allow 7 days for clearing. Orders paid with a Money order or through Paypal will ship upon receipt.

Payment must be made (or sent) within 3 days.
Ohio State residents must pay 6.75% sales tax.
Pricing includes shipping within the continential US via priorty post US Mail.
Due to the nature of my seasonal designs I do not offer refunds, and ALL SALES ARE FINAL.


*Due to the nature of using natural gourd products, some products will be available on a very limited basis. * Please allow 6/8 weeks for delivery on custom items…4/6 weeks for in stock items * I reserve the right to substitute similar items for out of stock items: ON ACCESSORIES/TRIMS AND FABRICS ONLY. * Sizes and colors are approximate & may vary. * All items are handcrafted; no two will be exactly alike lending to the uniqueness of my products. * Most items are made to look old with a vintage style.





 

Talking turkey....


New for 2011... Trevor the Turkey.
There are 12 available.
Each one is a one-of-the-kind creation. Each turkey is hand-crafted and one-of-a-kind so please expect slight variation from the photos.


Created from 6-8" dried kettle gourds. Hand sculpted features have been crafted from airdry porcelain clay, hand painted in acrylics and sprayed with acrylic sealer. His tailfeathers are created from cut gourd scraps and painted


Measurements:
about 8" tall {from base to top of head}
approximately 6" wide {including tail}


Along with a sprinkling of pumpkins and gourds, he makes an excellent addition to your thanksgiving day table...

$15.00 + $3.95 s/h
Please contact me at lynlockwood@aol.com if interested in purchasing. I will then send you a PayPal invoice. Pieces will ship upon receipt of payment.

~ Carolyn

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

2011 Ohio Gourd Show

The Ohio Gourd show was held in Greenville, on the western side of Ohio in Darke County. A totally miserable week-end of below normal temps and drizzly rain kept folks from coming out in droves. Thankfully, I was housed inside the coliseum for exhibition. Regardless of the crappy weather outside there was an abundance of fun and good cheer inside with demonstrations, creative classes and camaraderie.

Competitions were stiff and the quality of items on display were amazing. I thought I'd share some of the outstanding pieces on exhibit.  And to encourage you to come out and check us out next year...same place...same week-end. (Last week-end in September)   See you there!


Selection of Hand chip carved birdhouses and ornaments



Beautiful carved gourd bowl with gold leaving


Attractive gourd piece with natural fibers


Completely hand beaded art - there are over 90,000 seed beads in this design!  Can you imagine?


Too Cool not to share...Gourd mask hand painted and accented with feathers.


Entry for competition: Gourd animals, I love penguins!


An entry for creative use of gourds.  I think this person has a crazy, fantastic imagination!


Left me speechless!  This large hand carved vessel was so perfect you would think it was make from a plastic mold!


Black and white collection of exquisite carved pieces.



Symphony of Gourds wouldn't be complete without belly dancers





My display of offerings: Halloween items were a huge hit.


The 2011 Backwoods Fest

Another year as come and gone for the Thornville Backwoods Fest.
The crowds came but overall sales were down a considerable amount. I offered newly designed, carved bowls for everyday use in addition to my good old standbys...Halloween, but Halloween is what the people wanted - so next year it is what they will get! Months of cleaning, designing, sculpting, carving, and painting led to some pretty disappointing results, but I sure had fun anyways!

It is always good to see old friends and to make new ones. Now that I can be found on facebook, I had the opportunity to meet and greet some of my new followers. I was amazed to learn how many pieces individual collectors have of my work...the winner went to a gal who owns 16 of my gourds!  And, she bought more!  Let's see who can top that one! 

In all seriousness, I greatly appreciate all the kind words, encouragement, compliments and patronage. Without you, all this hard work wouldn't be worth it.  THANK YOU!

Just had to share...the hubs! Working hard or hardly working?  You decide!


Another view of the booth at the start of the show


And along came the crowds...Standing room only


It's Time to Order Buckeyes for Upcoming holiday season!

Back by popular demand
Just created...a limited number of "The Buckeye Guy" ornaments.
Hand painted dried mini pear gourds accented with air dry
clay to create this must ornie for any Buckeye Lovers Christmas tree.

Each is signed, dated and come with red line hanger.
9.98 + $2.95 SH and Ohio Sales tax.

To order please contact me at lynlockwood@aol.com

Better hurry...these little guys are moving fast!

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Thanks for another incredible show!

My sincere thanks to all who turned out
for the Backwoods Fest!
With a wonderful combination of great weather, friends and extremely talented folks another fantastic show has come
and gone. One more Halloween show to go and then I am
off to the races with Christmas offerings.
Be sure to check back often as I will post new offerings
as soon as the paint is dry!

God speed ~ Carolyn

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

I am ghoulishly excited to announce the
date for
my Halloween Preview!

You are cordially invited…
September 16, 17 and 18
The Thornville Backwood’s Fest

Booth #122
(Just inside the woods on right hand side - far end of the field)
Fasten your corsets and lace up your boots…
Put on your top hats and antique black suits…
Curl your mustache and iron your hair,
Don't dust off the spider webs, why they add such a flair!

Creepy graveyards, and awesome black cats,
Grinning pumpkins and pointed witches hats.
Ghostly ghouls and spirited wee folk,
Halloween is certainly not a joke!
Whimsical wonder with nothing to fear
Things that have been stewing & brewing
for almost a year.

See you in the Woods!

Carolyn Lockwood, Artist
Gourds & Gatherings

Monday, August 1, 2011

45 days and counting....

 Step One: Gourd supply has been purchased and now they are ready to be scrubbed and cleaned -My gourd farmer did an extra good job this year and let them stay in the field until spring. This helped minimize the mold and the scales. Hopefully it will make cleaning and scrubbing a lot easier. It is really hot and humid in Ohio this year, so using the power washer and getting wet and dirty will be a welcomed change from the heat.
I burned up the electric power washer and had to borrow a gas powered one from my sister. Boy, did it make short work out of the gourd pile. I only lost 3 to blow outs.
Step two: A dip in a bleach water bath and they are headed to the racks to dry in the sun.
Don't they look so much better? I can't wait to get started....


Before and
after shot...


Nothing better than a natural gourd canvas to be transformed into pumpkins, ghosts, monsters, vampires, ghouls and dioramas.

Stay tuned....

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Hot, Hot Summer Days! 45 days and counting until the Halloween Preview.


Baby, it's HOT outside! According to wikipedia, the term "dog days" refers to the hottest, most sultry days of summer. Dog Days can also define a time period that is stagnant or marked by dull lack of progress. Hmmmmm. That sounds about right. :)

Oh, but to get motivated...and, here we are starting the beginning of August and my biggest show of the season is a little over a month away and I have no ambition to be outside. I have my studio cleaned and ready, all my designs drawn and today I finally made my gourd purchases for the season, so what's holding me back?

I have pile of gorgeous gourds just waiting to be scrubbed and cleaned, which has to take place in order for me to design, carved, cut and paint. Can you hear it? The gourds are screaming for attention, and eagerly waiting to be turned into one-of-a-kind pieces of Halloween art. hmmm, maybe tomorrow...

On the plus side the extreme heat in Ohio is perfect for me to pull out the power washer and get down right dirty and WET. Yep looks like tomorrow will be the day.

With best intentions, I plan to post the progress from taking the gourds from the farmers field to my studio to the show.  Stay tuned for photos and updates and remember to mark your calendars for the Thornville Backwoods Fest the third weekend in September....when the magical transformation will occur.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

4th month countdown!


Four Months to Halloween???!!!  Where has the time gone? It's crunch time ladies...time to clean the studio, purchase my gourd stock, scrub, clean and carve gourds and sculpt, sculpt sculpt., paint, paint, paint.

I have some new, fun and exciting designs for this years Halloween Unveiling at the Thornville Backwoods Fest. I also will be exhibiting a in a few new shows this year which I hope will bring sucess and exposure for my art. This also means I need to put on the game face and bring on my A game. My tentative show shedule is firming up nicely and is posteed to the left for those of you who can come out and say hello.

I also want to thank all my past, present and future patrons for your support.

Have a happy July  and God bless!

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Virtual Open House...You're Invited!

Welcome to my virtual Spring Open House. Grab a cup of joe, sit back and enjoy. All pieces are available for purchase unless indicated. I accept cash, check, money order or PayPal. If interested please contact me via e-mail at lynlockwood@aol.com for an invoice and complete shipping information.


BY THE SEASHORE Large Painted Seagull Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 8" tall
$48.00 + OH tax and S&H

SOLITARY SEAGULL Medium Painted Seagull Gourd Bowl.......Approx. 6" tall
$40.00 + OH tax and S&H


SOLITARY SEAGULL Small Round Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 4" tall
$35.00 + OH tax and S&H


TROPICAL FISH Small Painted  Gourd Bowl.................Approx. 4" tall.
SOLD + OH tax and S&H


SAFE HARBOR Hand carved and painted Gourd Vessel...................Approx. 10" tall......
$56.00 + OH tax and S&H

UNDER THE SEA Medium Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
$45.00 + OH tax and S&H


TREE FROG Medium Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
$40.00 + OH tax and S&H

CELTIC TRINITY Large Carved & Painted Gourd Vessel.........Approx. 11" tall
$56.00 + OH tax and S&H


PAINTED PONY Medium Carved &  Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
$45.00 + OH tax and S&H

PRICKLY PEAR Medium Carved &  Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
SOLD + OH tax and S&H

GECKOS Large Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 8" tall
$48.00 + OH tax and S&H

OHIO WHITETAIL Large Carved & Painted Decorator Piece.........Approx.10" tall
$56.00 + OH tax and S&H

SUNFLOWERS IN BLUE Small Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
SOLD + OH tax and S&H





Dragonfly Large Beaded, Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 8" tall
$45.00 + OH tax and S&H


CHINESE KOI  Medium Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
$40.00 + OH tax and S&H


KOKOPELLI Medium Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 6" tall
$40.00 + OH tax and S&H


BUTTERFLIES IN BLUE Small Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 4" tall
SOLD + OH tax and S&H


MONARCH BUTTERFLY Small Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........Approx. 4" tall
$35.00 + OH tax and S&H


GECKOS OF THE SOUTHWEST Medium Carved & Painted Gourd Bowl.........
$40.00 + OH tax and S&H

 
Thanks for stopping by!