Escaping the Heat

This past week I've had the chance to escape the heat of the valley.  Funny, that, because the triple digits dropped to the 90's as soon as we left town.  Triple digits are back for our return.  go figure.  I guess that's what happens when you book a summer week in January.  No control over the elements.

Have you ever heard of the Sawdust Festival in Laguna Beach?  I hadn't.  But the friend I rented from told me to check it out.  Not only is there the Sawdust Festival, but there is the Art-a-Fair, and the Festival of the Arts.  wow!  I made it to Sawdust, and Art-a-Fair.  If you like art, crafts, and creativity, this is definitely the place to be during the summer.  It was a blast!

There aren't many quilters in the mix.  Actually, not too many fiber/textile artists either, but what there was?  Lovely!

I took a couple of pictures, but for the most part, there were no photos allowed.  Here is an example of the felted work available.  Loretta Alvarado allowed photos, as long as I credit her and include her website.  I loved her work!!

 Laguna Beach began as an artist's colony back in the '30's.  Everywhere you go, you see art.  This mosaic just blows me away.  Little pieces of glass and ceramic combine together to decorate the side of a building.

 Here is the plaque beneath it.

 Here is a close-up.  You can click on the image to enlarge.

Even the jewelry stores have original art installations.

 After so much inspiration, all I want to do is make art.  I came back to my room and went back to my hand quilting.  After all, I am a quilt artist.  Quilting is my medium.

But don't be surprised if I start dabbling in mosaic work and collage.  I saw things that almost made me hyperventilate, they were so exciting.  Soon, very soon - probably once I move another 12 yards of bark - I will begin making art in earnest.  Goals are good!  Goals are very good!  And I do love setting them!