BRIAR COTTAGE STUDIO

Happy New Year

2012-01-04T10:24:00.001-05:00

HELLEBORE'S ON SLATE

I want to thank everyone who joined me for my Christmas Party!

It was wonderful to see everyone again,

and Thanks to you it was a very successful Christmas Season.

The snow is falling,

Winter has come in with the New Year.

For me it's time to huddle in and start thinking about spring.

I truly become a hermit in the winter, since I am very afraid to drive in the snow.

Thankfully my studio is at my home, I'm happy as a clam!

SpRIng FliNG,

Will come quickly, so I'll work hard to bring many new items, for my lovely customers. I had many requests for bird nests with eggs, so I will be working on an original way to bring the nests to you. If there is anything you would especially like to see please don't hesitate to comment or email me, I will do my best to bring it to the Cottage.

Have a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Huddle in and enjoy the Winter!

Christmas Party

2011-11-17T08:14:00.001-05:00

Christmas at the Cottage

Join me for Christmas at the Cottage

Friday December 2nd, Saturday Dec 3rd

Thursday, December 8th Friday Dec 9th

From: 11:00am to 8:00 pm

after 5:00 is twinkle time, best time to see the lights.

HOLIDAY HOURS: Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 to 3:00 or by appointment.

Fellow artist Christi Anderson on Etsy

2011-10-11T08:15:00.002-05:00

If you have never visited Etsy before you are in for a real treat!

Careful it's addicting!

This is work done by another artist on Etsy. Her name is Christi Anderson, what a artist she is.

These are a sample of some of her work found at

cassioppea.etsy.com

If you have the opportunity, check it out!

The New Cottage Studio

2011-10-03T19:35:00.000-05:00

The Cottage Workshop

Outside the Workshop

The Cottage Studio's new enterance
Visitors Welcome

This year there have been many changes and there are more to come! Both the Cottage and the Workshop have had many changes. I have after 13 years been told I can no longer sell out of the small cottage. Well what's a girl to do? Comply with the wishes and move along. So now I have a new location next door. The same whimsy is still there, when you visit you will see many changes, but they are all for the good. I have built a new front porch so I can greet you properly before you enter. I have a workshop inside where I do my painting, and a gallery room so you can view my artwork. And some really cool news, I am now doing fashion items, Yeap FASHION ITEMS, I am starting yet another new venture. I have turned the small cottage into a fiber worshop. I will be spinning my own yarns from my own cottage dyed fibers. Some purchased locally (Alpaca) some purchased as of now on the internet (Merino Wool) Hopefully I can find some local Wools, which you will be able to purchase for your knitting, felting and crafting ventures. I will be making scarves, purses, shawls etc. which will also be for sale, keep it in mind for the Holidays. I am very excited! Today my new spinning wheel is being delivered, Yea! I will try and keep you up to date on the venture, you can learn along with me. Stay dry and warm! Happy new ventures to all!

A new Venture ETSY

2011-09-25T20:21:00.001-05:00

Woodland vase oin Etsy

Closeup of Vase

I wanted to let everyone now I have opened a shop an Etsy. I am really excited! I hope everyone will join me on my venture. To link to the Etsy site just click on the briarcottage link on the bottom of the Etsy box on the right side. You will find my work for sale plus many more wonderful artists. If you have never visited you are in for a treat.

Many Changes

2011-07-24T21:10:00.000-05:00

A new look!

Things are changing around Briar Cottage.

If you haven't had a chance, or didn't know my new web site is up and running.

Feel free to stop by and take a look!

BRIARCOTTAGESTUDIO.COM

Keep stopping back there are many more changes in the works.

Happy Fourth of July

2011-06-29T08:48:00.000-05:00

The Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is coming fast, I think of July as being the middle of summer. Depending on whether you think of your glass being half full or half empty, My summer is half over. Days start getting a little shorter, some may not even notice! But as I sit enjoying my new front porch, I enjoy every minute knowing that fall will approach very quickly. Enjoy every moment, stop and smell the roses, for before we know it summer will be over and fall will be here at a blink of an eye.

A Serving Tray, painted in Chinese Red with a bold Whimsical Flower. Clear coated for durability.

Commission

This Tissue box and waste basket, is a beautiful addition to any powder room.

I love Polka Dots and Stripes, Such Fun!

Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-08T07:50:00.000-05:00

Today is a day to celebrate,

All the Mothers in the world.

You filled my days with rainbow lights,
Fairytales and 'sweet dream' nights,
A kiss to wipe away my tears,
Comforting words to ease my fears.

You gave the gift of life to me
And then in love, you set me free.
I thank you for your tender care,
For deep warm hugs and,.....
...just for being there.

Happy Mothers' Day

I love you Mom, in sweet memories.

I've Moved

2011-04-20T04:17:00.000-05:00

The Cottage is seeing some major changes. Don't worry, It's now next door in the larger Cottage. You can still pop in to say hello and see my work. You will hopefully in a few weeks be able to meander your way along a brick path, through a cottage garden to the front door of the larger cottage, It's a work in progress. so please watch your step. If i'm not working on the garden and walkway, I'm in the old small cottage working, Although I am suppose to have visitors by appointment only, friends are always welcome.

Sold

The Forgiving Garden

Polymer clay & Copper

I would also like to Thank everyone that made my Spring Fling Open House a success, As always I appreciate your support, for without you there would be no Briar Cottage.

Spring Open House

2011-03-21T22:52:00.000-05:00

Daffy Shoe

Join me for my Spring Open House :

Thursday, March 24- 10:00 to 4:00

Friday, March 25- 10:00 to 4:00

Saturday, March 26- 10:00 to 4:00

Daisy Shoe

The studio as been closed, January & February, for renovations. I am excited, for my customers to see it, and am looking forward to seeing everyone again. IT"S BEEN A LONG WINTER!

Holiday Open Studio

2010-11-30T09:45:00.002-05:00

Friday, December 10th---10:00 am to 4:00 pm
&
Saturday, December 11th---10:00 am to 4:00 pm

BRIAR COTTAGE STUDIO
2330 Wyland Avenue
Allison Park, PA 15101

2010-11-30T09:09:00.000-05:00

2010-11-30T09:01:00.003-05:00

Just a Glimpse of Holiday Happenings

Hand Painted ornaments, One of a kind, Found nowhere else but Briar Cottage.

Plant Stand

2010-11-30T08:35:00.005-05:00

Plant Stand

A touch of Whimsy is a beautiful thing, If I could keep a fern alive in the studio wouldn't it look just wonderful atop this stand.
(I used to have a green thumb, but life has it's priorities.)

2010-11-30T08:10:00.002-05:00

A Touch of Christmas

Hand Painted Platter & Pitcher, to be used for decorative use only. This is one of the many gifts available in the studio this Holiday Open House.

Hope to see you there!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !

Puppy in training

2010-08-08T16:51:00.003-05:00

A New member to the studio, My little helper, (Pip) a 9 week old West Highland White Terrier. I am hoping with proper training he will help me greet guests at the studio. Do stop in and meet the newest member of Briar Cottage.

HAPPY EASTER

2010-04-01T17:09:00.001-05:00

Wishing all a very Happy Easter!

English Robin

2010-03-20T17:51:00.001-05:00

Posted for my mother who passed last year in October, I miss you!

Come on Spring!

2010-03-17T13:01:00.003-05:00

Spring I am hoping is just around the corner. I'm working on a face lift for the studio, and organizing the clutter in the home. I am holding high hopes of getting outside and working in the gaRDEN soon! The snow drops are blooming now a little late, but who can blame them for not popping there heads out in three foot of snow. The daffodils are coming on strong, and as always I am painting away, very busy with commissions, which I will post as I finish them. Hope all is well and that you are "Coming on Spring".

Americana

2009-08-16T18:52:00.003-05:00

Hope that everyone had a wonderful July, We are now into August, I am sure that time passes quickly for everyone. Don't blink!!!! This month I have been working on items for a wonderful Antique / Gift shop located in Colazzi's Hair Salon. What wonderful items she has, if you have never been there do stop in and wonder around the salon, while your there say hello to Vince, Darleen and the girls! Don't blink! August will go by like a flash.

Stop & Smell the Roses

2009-06-14T10:23:00.010-05:00

Stop & smell the roses. It's time to take a breath. Many don't realize running a business is so very time consuming. The job is never ending, Literally! A must is that you truly love what you do.... and I do! You need the ability and the want to do something 24 hours- 7 days.... I believe only the people who venture this route know what I mean. There are always ideas, paintings, things I would like to venture into, popping up in my head. There is just not enough time in a day, Eventually you have to sleep... and I do! So please bare with me as I venture the blogging world, I do at some point in time believe there will be more time to.... Stop & smell the roses.

Happy Holidays

2008-12-04T07:17:00.004-05:00

The holidays are upon us again, boy did that year go fast! As most of my customer already know I put out a new Christmas image yearly. This year I have decided to do a simple version of one of my favorites Holly. I have cards available as usual, with a touch of texture. Texture is something paper and canvas artists don't get to do very often, I quite enjoyed it! I must also mention my open house. I am sorry but my year has been very full with family matters, and I don't have the ability to have one this year. But please if you would like visit the studio, it is open by appointment only (412-487-8531). International images Ltd. a gallery in Sewickley has a few items of mine to view and to purchase, not to mention some outstanding artists from around the world, definitely worth the trip. Wishing you all a Wonderful Holiday. Love Kate

Fairy Land Mural

2008-07-31T23:52:00.008-05:00

Come along and walk with me, Fairies are amongst the trees.

Thank you Linda what a wonderful time I had painting this Mural.

This mural was on a semi textured ceiling, so it was very challenging to get the detail, but it worked wonderfully. Enjoy!

A quick not to let you know I will be opening a shop on the Internet soon. So keep watching!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-07-18T15:01:00.007-05:00

Busy, Busy, Busy, This is a Faux Finish, for a wonderful new home in Sewickley. What a beautiful powder room. Approximately 8 to 9 layers of graduated faux from the bottom to the top, Deep red on the ceiling to accent the crown mold, and deep red graduating down the wall. Then to top it all off I accented with a graduated silver one of a kind stencil damask, from the bottom to about 3/4 up the wall. What fun! Thank you, Linda! Hope that your move went smoothly! Enjoy

A True Lady

2008-04-24T07:23:00.004-05:00

I just loved working on these shutters for A truely wonderful lady, Sending best wishes for a fast recovery. The garden is calling, get well soon! These shutters are painted with a tone on tone floral composition. The edges are trimed with a cut copper design, each leaf is cut out buy hand with a jewelers saw. Each copper panel took 4 days to cut out. They should verdi in a few years. I love verdi, looking forward to seeing them again then. Thank you Colleen for his wonderful opportunity.

Happy Easter Vacation

2008-03-17T09:59:00.004-05:00

Wishing all a wonderful Easter! If you get the chance to stop by, please do so. I love bunnies so there are lots of Easter Home decorations. Remember these are one of a kind Items, when there gone there gone. I am thinking of opening a store over the web, please let me know if you would like that? Where is your favorite spot to sell or buy Etsy, Ebay etc.? Looks like spring is trying to inch it's way in so enjoy while it lasts. I am hoping to get into the yard a little today for a start to spring cleanup. RELAX & ENJOY!

A Welcome Return

2008-03-09T19:19:00.003-05:00

I am looking forward to returning to my art world. I will be reopening the cottage starting Monday, March 9th, . Looking forward to seeing all your smiling faces again. Mom is coming along, very slowly and Dad is getting quite use to his crutches. Thank you for all your prayers, and patience.

Busy Times

2008-02-20T10:42:00.004-05:00

Busy Times, I wanted to apologize for not being a good blogger, And to say thank you to all who are being very patient on my leave. I currently am closed, because of medical problems with my family. My mother has spent the last month in the hospital and to boot my father on the way to the hospital two weeks ago fell and broke his ankle in three places. For the time being I am needed at home for 24 hour care, and keeping track of medical going on's at the hospital. Please except my apology. I will be back to normal as soon as possible.

Kate

Elegance

2008-01-22T22:48:00.001-05:00

For a lovely lady: This is a commission I just finished. Thank you Betty for the privilege of restoring your heirloom. I hope that you enjoy it, as much as I enjoyed restoring it. We will get it delivered soon. Thank you also for your patience. Looking forward to working with you in the future. Kate

A Little Rest

2008-01-19T23:48:00.001-05:00

Child of the pure, unclouded brow

And dreaming eyes of wonder!

Though time be fleet and I and thou

Are half a life asunder,

Thy loving smile will surely hail

The love-gift of a fairy tale. (Carroll)

Working with nature "The Gourd"

2008-01-16T14:18:00.001-05:00

This is a very large canteen gourd, which I was very fortunate to find at a flea market. Oh, the wonderful and variety of items you can find.. To me there is no better shopping in the world. If you are looking for the unusual items, a flea market is the place to go. Some of the items need to be embellished or need a little tender loving care. But with a little effort you may find that you end up with the most cherished items in your home. Have a great day!

A Little Light

2008-01-14T08:59:00.001-05:00

The imagination is a wonderful thing. What would we do without it? A little light that is in a prime position in my dinning room. The lamp itself is an old lamp, the shade I purchased at a local store, alabaster glass. Painted in neutral shades of gray, white and gold. Neutrals are a wonderful thing, cream and white bring such good light to the dreary days of Pittsburgh. We have many gray days in Pittsburgh, and semi long winters. The use of white and cream brightens all areas of my house. I would like to bring more of these light offerings to the cottage, along with more natural elements, let me know how you feel?

And to all a Goodnight

2007-12-25T21:34:00.001-05:00

WISHING ALL A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

We made it through the Holidays, Hope all had a wonderful Holiday. Now for a well deserved rest. See you after the New Year.

HOLIDAY OPENHOUSE

2007-11-26T09:16:00.001-05:00

Join me for my 8th annual Holiday Open House.
December 1st (Saturday) From : 9:00 am -5:00 pm.

Holiday Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Saturdays 9:00 to 5:00.
November 26 thru December 18th.

Register to win a 50 dollar gift certificate to be drawn on Dec. 3rd.

WISHING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A VERY HAPPY HOLIDAY!

New Journey

2007-09-24T08:23:00.003-05:00

Sewickley, PA. A beautiful, quaint village on the outskirts of Pittsburgh. Que Sera Sera Gallery, located at 559 Beaver Street, is an adorable little Art Gallery full of Charm. As you walk through the doors you can't help but feel the friendly welcoming atmosphere. Que Sera Sera, pride's itself in showcasing many locally known artists, Do stop and say hello to (Linda) the owner accomplished herself in painting, Linda paints from her heart, which carries into her paintings with a sense of whimsy, and happiness. Nouveau freind, mes meilleurs voeux pour votre nouveau voyage!

"Wonderland Jewelry"

2007-06-25T11:21:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be bringing you a new line. This will be a grouping called Wonderland Jewelry, If you are looking for something totally different in jewelry, this is for you. Made from old books, polymer clay, found object and broken china chips. Keep watching!

"Face Gourd"

2007-06-09T07:10:00.001-05:00

I love to work on gourds, all things natural are just a wonder to me. Mother nature is a true artist the world she creates is just outstanding. It is done with a technique called pyrography, which is burned on with a very hot iron. The smell as you burn is like sitting at a campfire which is very relaxing to me. The character faces are burned the whole way around the gourd. Then sections are stained with leather stain for definition. Clear coated for durability and ease of cleaning. I use them for bowls or I love to add a potted plant to the inside with a plate or water catcher at the bottom. It is a truly wonderful and unusual decoration. This gourd is now for sale at my eBay store, check the link is at the top of the page. Enjoy your day and keep watching.

Verde Vase

2007-06-01T07:22:00.001-05:00

First I would like to apologize for not be a good blogger. Things have been so busy lately, not complaining, I just have been in need of time for everything else. Spring has come to Pittsburgh, and with spring as everyone knows the grass needs cut, the borders need work, etc. This year I also needed to attend to some medical needs which are now done, and all being well stay done. So back to business. The Verde vase above was purchased the same day I put it out, it is a beautiful piece and as all my work I will miss it, I am happy it went to a wonderful home, Thank you Carol, enjoy!

There are new items to my ebay store. The link is at the top of the page. Don,t forget to check it often for new listings. Thank you, Kate

"Diamond Market"

2007-03-11T12:17:00.000-05:00

Dimensions: 62" long by 22" wide

A very unusual piece, It is a partial view of a large hanging canvas. I love to find items that are ready for the dumpster and revive them. The Top of this canvas is a very old chair back, which I purchased at a fleatique, The bottom was not very special but the top was outstanding. So I disassembled it and added my own artwork at the bottom. Along with the chair back, I added some very detailed painted copper to add texture next came some beautiful trim and then the Jacobean diamond whimsical canvas. Finished at the bottom with more trim and copper. This piece would look outstanding in a family room.

"Special Delivery"

2007-03-07T07:53:00.000-05:00

This Character has been hanging around me for a few years now. He pops in every once and a while to send a special message, Life should be fun, and not so serious. Wouldn't it be wonderful to be full of Whimsy? Around every corner the world of imagination. Life's funny it takes you in so many directions. Ahh...to go back to a simpler time and place, I think I'll have to venture there again, soon!

"To Dream of Flora"

2007-03-04T22:38:00.001-05:00

Oh! wouldn't it be nice to see flowers again, and to smell the earth. I don't know about you but I'm tiered of the SNOW! I feel very fortunate to be able to dream of a world that always has flowers. That the smell of the earth is always fresh and inviting. Oh, to dream of flowers. To walk in the garden , to hear the birds singing. I guess I'm ready for spring! How about you?

"Castle Combe" England

2007-03-02T12:04:00.001-05:00

Another English inspired painted, from a trip to England. What a beautiful place, Castle Combe. This was a lovely little restaurant on the main street. The board is a lunch specials board, couldn't decide whether to call it "Specials" or "Castle Combe", but I thought people would relate more so to Castle Combe.

An enjoyable picture to paint. The colors I loved, earthy tones my favorite. Aged stone such texture. Plants and Nature the best. Hope you enjoy! Definitely if your planning a trip to England, it's a must see.

"Stourhead" - England

2007-02-28T07:42:00.001-05:00

This painting was referenced from a photo that I have in my photo archive. A trip to England a few years ago, was the inspiration. There is truely a painting around every corner. Stourhead is an impressive estate, the grounds are absolutely stunning. This painting was very difficult for me because of all the detail. I tend to see everything, and want to put it all in the painting. Something I truly need to work on. I am currently trying some looser images. Keep watching for the progress, your comments would be greatly appreciated.

"Birthday wishes"

2007-02-27T13:43:00.001-05:00

Today is my best friends birthday , she is so far away. We use to have so much fun on her birthday. I miss having her close by. We always had good time on our ventures. I want to sent this Birthday wish to her. And hope it is the best ever! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JANET!!!! I love your and miss you.

"Dream Land"

2007-02-25T13:39:00.001-05:00

(This is painting on canvas I hang at the back of my tent at arts festivals, it is basically a back drop.) Heading into dream land, Finally feel like I am getting somewhere. Feeling like I can head back to my painting, on a full time bases. The electronics are almost done, the house is in order. Now I can dream and let my dreaming hit my work. The head is finally clear. Dream on... Dream on.....!

"A Day in Ligonier"

2007-02-23T22:21:00.001-05:00

What a nice day! The people in Ligonier, PA are so friendly. What a wonderful place to visit. I stopped in a little antique store, which always draws me when I visit. I should have taken a picture of the storefront, but was so absent minded. Just wanted a bit of R & R. Which I got ! The snow held off , and the sun actually peaked out a little, gorgeous! I will have to look into how old this gazebo is in the center square, it would be interesting to know for future reference. Well to all goodnight!

My Web

2007-02-21T08:43:00.001-05:00

Another day at working on my web site, maybe a little painting. Hopefully! I would much rather be working on my art. But this part of it is also necessary. With all this work I am hoping that people will enjoy my efforts. I do need to get outside and finish digging myself out from the snow. My car is still buried. The heat wave has set in for a couple days, so now is the time. Get digging. So much to do, so little time. Have a great day!!!

A Day Off

2007-02-17T23:45:00.001-05:00

This segment of a piece which I titled "Hourglass" is an acrylic on canvas. A wall hanging with copper and beads. I finished it about oh, 3 months ago. It's been sold, but it reminded me of today sunny and shimmering. It was a different day for me. I actually took the day off and headed to the city. It's still bitter in the burg, but the sun was shining. I had the opportunity to clear the 2 inch thick ice from the driveway. Absolutely amazing! The ice is still on the tree branches, 4 or 5 days now..... It's beautiful, the light shimmers through like diamonds.

La-La Land

2007-02-13T00:39:00.002-05:00

Well it's been a very long day. But i just wanted to check a little more on how this works. It's been a full day on the computer. Tomorrow I paint! escape into the la la land I love to be in. Forget any worries, and create!

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2007-02-11T13:11:00.000-05:00

Blogger: BRIAR COTTAGE STUDIO - Manage Posts