from the studio and the home

Spring is just around the corner! (at least for us in the Northern Hemisphere) Is it just me or is everything coming out to play a little early? I was planting some iris bulbs and actually saw a salamander a few days ago. I know this summer could get hot but I am happy to shake off winter for a bit....until the next round of Tennessee weather hits again.

from the studio

This month I did quite few plaster wall hangings and even brought out an old painting that had been deemed 'finished' but actually needed a touch of gold. Its hard to get a proper photo of without doing a big 'photoshoot setup' but above is a detail shot from it. I have video of it on my TikTok page titled "Creative Reset Day" if you want to see/learn more about it.

I had not seen this male torso in quite some years, so I was so pleasantly surprised to see it cast and cannot wait to make different versions of it soon. Love to imagine it on a shelf full of collectibles...maybe in front of a mirror? Basically to recreate some of the beautiful interiors that pop up in my Pinterest feed.

I realized not long ago that plaster torsos (or plaster pieces in general) have become a thing in interior design so I am hoping to ride that wave as well ;)

Definitely makes for a more approachable way to start a collection!

Slowly starting back a drawing practice has been so fulfilling. I have really enjoyed the mediation and stillness that comes from the act of observation. Especially when they are such delicate intricate fragments of nature. This month, the beloved buttercups were my subject matter. ....as known as Daffodils. These are 5x7inches and are available.

**Fun Fact** Daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. And less commonly is used to symbolize creativity, energy, resilience, and vitality.

from the home

February was spent being cozy at home and visiting with friends and family. Even though it was busier than January, the quality of time was very relaxed. Normally I always see the month as being one of the most dreary with the sparkle of the New Years and holidays long gone. 

Still on a kale kick over here! I love eating with the seasons and winter is when my favorite type of kale is best. Kale lacinato a.k.a. dino kale a.k.a tuscan kale a.k.a. cavolo nero goes by many names.

One of my favorite cozy winter pasta dishes combines this kale with sausage, like the kind you get from the butcher section of the store. My favorite is the hot italian from Whole Foods.

The receipe I am sharing is in Italian but your device should be able to translate it with ease...but be forewarned, the translation is bad for 'cavolo nero'....it is supposed to be kale that is used, not black cabbage.

Feel free to substitute things as needed! Last night we had a big bowl but used trofie pasta, no tomato, added crushed red pepper, then topped with lots of black pepper, sprinkle of parmasean, and olive oil.

I went into a lot more detail than I thought I would but obviously I feel strongly about this dish and want you to try it! Wish I could cook it for you all myself!

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