April Newsletter Say Yes to the Stress! |
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In this issue... - Say Yes to the Stress
- Upcoming Workshops
- Ongoing Events
- Purple Crayon Shirts
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I’ve often thought it would be great to not have any responsibilities. No cats demanding to be fed; no laundry needing to be washed; no bills waiting to be paid. The idea seems delightful! Seems is the key, though. In reality, I know that I would go crazy not having any commitments. When I first retired, I was thrilled to get rid of the chronic stress that filled my days. I loved getting to choose how I’d spend my time and not having to answer to anyone. Having an empty calendar also terrified me, though. I was used to having fully planned days with little room for me time. Now, all I had was me time, and I had no idea what to do with it. There were only so many walks to take, quilts to make, and books to read. Without any commitments, I became really frustrated and bored. Eventually, I started doing pro bono work, offering my consulting, training, and coaching services to nonprofits. In exchange for improving these organizations’ performance, my clients gave me a reason to get up in the morning. The problem was, as my calendar began to re-fill, I began to feel like I was working again; I just wasn’t getting paid for it. While I had something to do every day, I had too much something, and I began feeling stressed again. I realized that I had to figure out a balance between how much stress I needed to feel happy and fulfilled and how much stress would, well, stress me out. It seemed odd that I’d want any stress in my life, but, in fact, studies show that we all need some level, even if we’re not aware of it. To be clear, chronic stress—stress that constantly dominates your thoughts—is bad and can cause anxiety, tiredness, high blood pressure, depression, etc. But moderate stress is healthy. According to a 2018 Healthline article, it “strengthens the connection between neurons in your brain, improving memory and attention span, and helping you become more productive.” It’s what motivates us to do stuff and not just lie around all day. It took me a few years, but I finally figured out how to manage my calendar, saying yes to just enough commitments to feel productive but not overwhelmed. When I moved to Asheville, I gave up my pro bono work, replacing it with a less stressful and more rewarding way to spend my time: running Purple Crayon! Because I love my new “job” so much, now I struggle to make time to just play in my studio. I’m wondering if adding a little stress to that might be helpful, too, so I recently started two new creativity circles at the studio, both of which I’ve committed to attending. I figure, if I’m expected to play, I’ll have to! If you tend to put your art on the back burner as well, you might consider a similar strategy. If you don’t want to join a local studio or art group, consider at least registering for a workshop or two. We’ve got lots of great ones coming up at PC, including several classes that we're offering for the first time! Since you’ll have paid for it, you’ll think twice before backing out. Here’s to a stressful—but not too stressful—spring! —Pam Robbins, Owner |
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Intro to Resin Art Pouring: Tray Saturday, 4/2, 1:30-4:00 PM (Full but waitlist available) Acrylic pour painting is all the rage these days, and the results ARE amazing. Resin art pouring uses a similar process, but the results are even more beautiful—if you can imagine! Its translucent and ethereal layering of colors is difficult to recreate using any other medium. In this exciting workshop, Resin Art artist Donna Cook will show you how to create a stunning, one-of-a-kind resin tray. | | |
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Introduction to Shibori Saturday, 4/9, 1:00-4:00 PM (Full but waitlist available) Although the exquisitely detailed patterns of Shibori, a form of tie dye, look complicated, they can actually be quite easy to make—especially if you learn from a pro. Veteran textile artist Camille Daunno will teach you everything you need to know to get started with this ancient Japanese art. You’ll take home a beautiful 15" x 60" scarf and several smaller pieces of Shibori that you can hang on your wall or turn into another home accessory. | | |
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Introduction to Zentangle Saturday, 4/23, 1:30-4:00 PM Zentangle® is an easy-to-learn, relaxing way to turn structured patterns—called “tangles”—into tiny (3.5” x 3.5”) masterpieces that can, ultimately, be assembled into a larger mosaic. In this workshop, Michelle Marshall, CZT, will teach you how to use “strings” to create boundaries within a paper tile, how to create several tangles, and, finally, how to shade your designs to increase their depth and richness. No previous drawing experience necessary! | | |
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Drawing for Absolute Beginners Wed, 5/4, 5/18, 5/25 & 6/1, 10AM-12PM Drawing is not a talent; it’s a skill anyone can learn. Whether you want to capture ideas for your next art project, take your painting to the next level, explore a new medium, or just jumpstart your creativity post-COVID, veteran instructor Terrilynn Dubreuil will teach you everything you need to get started. You’ll leave the class newly inspired and with the knowledge, techniques, and confidence to draw anything! | | |
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Sparking Your Creative Muse Wed, 6/8-6/29, 10 AM-12 PM Do you feel like your muse has gone on vacation—and left you at home with the bags? Spark your creativity by immersing yourself in this four-week, playful and play-filled workshop taught by mixed media artist and veteran instructor, Kate Corcoran. Each week, you’ll explore a new technique for jump-starting your creativity. No prior art or writing experience necessary; just a sense of playfulness and a willingness to be inspired! | | |
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Eggshell Mosaics: Flower Pot Saturday, 6/11, 1:00-4:30 PM If you like doing puzzles, you'll love doing mosaics! While mosaic artists typically use colored stone, glass, or other ceramic to create their pieces, you’ll learn how to use broken eggshell tiles in this eco-friendly—and very Ashevillian—workshop! Veteran artist and teacher Robyn Crawford will teach you everything you need to know to make an EGGstraordinary, and oh-so-cute, mini flower pot. This one-of-a-kind piece will make a great addition to your home or a very special gift! | | |
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Upcycled Book Journal Saturday, 6/25, 1:30-4:30 PM Have you been trying to start or re-start a journaling practice but can’t seem to get motivated? The issue may be your journal! If you’re using an ordinary, off-the-shelf book, it’s no wonder you’re not inspired. In this new workshop, you’ll learn how to turn an old or damaged book into a one-of-a-kind keepsake that you won’t be able to resist filling with your art or thoughts. No previous bookbinding experience necessary. | | |
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Girls' Night (or Day) Out Ongoing Looking for something a little different for your next Girls' Night (or Day) Out? Consider scheduling a private arts and crafts party at Purple Crayon! We've got lots of great workshops to choose from, and, if you don't see what you're looking for, we'll be happy to try to find an instructor! Contact us for more information. | | |
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Studio Tours Are you looking for an affordable space to make art and connect with other women artists? We have suspended our Saturday Open Houses, but we would still love to show you around the studio! Please contact us to schedule a private tour. A limited number of memberships are still available. |
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Tangle Art Club (Online) Fridays, 3:00-4:15 PM If you love doodling but would like to make your work more intentional, this art club is for you! Each Friday, we'll take you on a new "tangle" adventure. It won’t take long before your mind settles, your to-do list melts away, and you get into the zone, weaving structured patterns into beautiful, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. The Club is open to the public for a nominal fee and free to PC members. While previous tangling experience is helpful, it's NOT required. Contact us for more information. |
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Creativity Circles Creativity Circles, which are open to PC members only, are scheduled times each week when at least one other member has committed to being at the studio. Current Creativity Circles include: - All-Medium Creativity Circles: Thursdays, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM, and Saturdays,10:00 AM-12:00 PM - Weekly Mixed Media Circle: Mondays, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM - Book Club: 1st Tuesday of the month, 6:30 PM-8:00 PM - Stitching Circle: Thursdays from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM - Monthly Mixed Media Circle: last Sunday of the month,10:00 AM-12:00 PM Please contact us for more information |
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Purple Crayon Shirts If you've found inspiration at Purple Crayon, now you can inspire others—and support the studio—by wearing a Purple Crayon shirt! You can pick from several styles (classic tee, slim fit tee, V-neck tee, long sleeve tee, pullover hoodie, and sweatshirt). The slim fit and V-neck tee come in a medium purple, and the rest of the shirts come in a dark purple (pictured below). Your shirt(s) will ship directly to your home. Order yours today! |
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