Art of Music Raffle

I’m adding to a common refrain today: support artists and musicians who have not been able to earn money.

Each July, in Carmel California, musicians gather to create a special Festival centered on the music of JS Bach. Heaven for this organist. Brigadoon for many of the fabulous musicians arriving from all over the world. The quality of vocal music and caliber of musicianship is so high it often takes my breath away. And I’ve heard some of the best in my time.

To help fund this yearly event, the community gets creative. Artists join in. There is an application process and the pieces are donated, with most of the artists living here really enjoying participating. It’s definitely fun to see what is inspired by the music we hear! Previously, the art was hung in the gallery at the main performance space: Sunset Center. This year, the show is presented via the main website: bachfestival.org

Above is my humble piece. I knew it would be difficult to photograph well. I like how the photographer captured the colors. The short description: I tatted 4 elements to be displayed on an ovoid ornament. The swirls of color represent the musicians and the audience. The rest is inspired by the Sunset Center hall: the gray by the lighting structure, the red by the seats and the beige by the marvelous stone floor of the lobby. I chose not to fill the ornament as I look forward to a future when we will gather together again to celebrate music and art and Carmel and….

Please consider bidding on any of the artwork, especially Ornamentation. Please support the musicians and artists as much as you are able. Please continue to celebrate Bach. There are videos offered daily on the Festival website to keep everyone in touch and inspire audiences and musicians.

Turn in time

It’s time to turn it in: my donation piece to raise money for Carmel Bach Festival. As always, no pictures of the piece you can bid on, but here’s a small portion: 

Pictures of the full piece will be taken by a professional and posted when the show opens. I’ll be sharing links soon.

Another group of tatters loose on the world!

I had fun! And all tatters accomplished something. The most experienced student completed a study in thread size. The tatter who has been tatting just 6 months completed almost the entire pattern. She added beads in the center parts. Her choice of colors worked nicely too. The other 3 students came away with successful rings and chains. I can’t wait to see what else they create.

Celebrating those successes has made it easier to ignore the ugly in the world. Illness has not touched anyone I know personally, but the violence has touched where a friend works. He was “blindsided” as he and his family were unplugging to enjoy some R & R. I pray that his rest isn’t “left undone” for long. We will need all good leaders in the next few days.

I’ve also been immersing myself in a new design. I’ve almost completed a test tat. No pictures until the auction starts. That should be in July. More info, like how to buy tickets, as the time approaches.

A design idea during Shelter in Place

The last few years, June has always been an exciting month. It’s been my custom to create a piece to donate to Art of Music to raise money for the Carmel Bach Festival. Like all public events in 2020, things will be different this year. Even my design process has changed. I typically pick a composition that the Festival features and base my design on that musical work. Without the buzz of music being prepared, I was coming up with a blank. It was suggested that I try to evoke the unique events of 2020. I wasn’t coming up with a way to tat a COVID-19 virus. I wasn’t drawn to the colors that are typically used in graphics of said bug. I even contemplated asking the musicians for suggestions.

So far, this is all I have: a central ring with 19 points for joining rings of 20 stitches.

If it will be foolish to stand shoulder to shoulder to enjoy the Festival, we must find other ways to tell the world music matters. These rings that tightly encircle a central ring will have to do. Please find a way to say music matters in our world turned upside down by this virus.

Phantasy

That’s what I’m leaning towards for the name of this year’sBach Festival Art Auction donation. I try to come up with a specific art piece based on a specific composition. This year, I’m inspired by Phantasy by RalphVaughan Williams. The background for his inspiration is intriguing. He composed it as a challenge to himself. That's what artists do. Challenge themselves to create art. How successful each artist is will always be discussed and even argued about. For this piece, I’m using a traditional embellishment technique for the background behind the tatted piece. The Bach Festival does a fabulous job pulling together programs that help us understand how and why the music has been composed and performed. I hope my piece is successful in expressing this grounding in the past while creating something new. I’m excited to pull all these separate facets together.

We're still Sheltering in Place. I feel so fortunate that we are where we are. Not that we're trying to keep from getting sick. Just that we have the resources to live comfortably while keeping out of harm's way. I'm old enough to remember drills for Armegeddan in small fallout shelters. We have it much better right now.

In the meantime, I'm designing and tatting and redesigning and retatting. For breaks, I’ve learned two more stitches for the Elephant canvas; now to finish that part of the stitching. I’ve dusted off some music that I imagine will be needed for services in the next few months. Jon Yusoff has named her Challenge Doily Thread that Binds. I’m starting Round 5 of my second attempt. I didn’t pay close enough attention the first time I tatted Round 3 and 4. I’ll post a picture soon. We’re progressing on our Spring Cleaning to End All Spring Cleaning. And of course our walks.

Ready for Play

It is my custom to review what I do each day, each week, each month, each quarter……… You get the idea. I need to know I’m making progress, making the world a better place, meeting my goals…….

BWV 549 by Melanie Cervi

June, on that list, looks like one big celebration! When you glance at my blog posts, you see posts that seem to be wrapped up in just one project. I really was involved in more than that! Really!! (BWV 549)

Sonata by Melanie Cervi

(Sonata) July, on that list, looks like one big concert!Lots of listening and writing, not much tatting or playing. I did play organ several times. I set the date for my workshop in Sunnyvale.

August wasn’t so positive. The organ went on the blink. The snowflakes went missing. I played a lot, so the hands have been limping along. I’m determined to end with a more positive week!

Yesterday, I spent most of the day preparing for the concert at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Salinas on Friday. Today, I’ll wrap up that preparation and work on repairing the organ. Tomorrow, I’ll be finishing my in-progress samples for the classes at Tat Days. (My classes are listed about half way down the page.) And Saturday is the last day of August! Whew!!

I'll be ready for some Play Time in September............

Where I am.....

Disaster almost struck! The Marjorie Evans gallery at Sunset Center where the Art Auction items are displayed is a wide hallway. Actually a T shape. There are 2 cases in the long section either side of the door to the parking lot. You can just make out one in the photo on the website (link above). The display surface is quite nice for size and height. Each case can comfortably hold 6 or so pieces of small art. The very, very heavy glass on top is a huge upside down box. I’d show you a picture, but I have been told other artists don’t like pictures of their art out there. So, I try to honor the spirit of community. (I don’t get it to be honest. Once I donate a piece, it’s not mine. And I frequently am surprised in good ways!) As the pulling of the tickets gets closer, I’ll sneak a picture. Promise!

The disaster was this: someone lost their footing close to the case and fell into the pedestal jostling everything. I was assured they were not seriously injured. My piece wasn’t affected, but a small picture on a stand toppled. It landed right side up thank heavens! And the very, very heavy glass sculpture stayed in place. Disaster almost struck!

I’m continuing to receive positive comments about the piece. I’ve got plans to tat the design again. I’m thinking larger thread so that it could be a door wreath. Must experiment…….

After the Festival ends though. I’ve already attended 4 concerts.  I have tickets to another half dozen or so. 

Time for a walk by the bay to clear my head. I’ve an ear worm of the opening of a Bach piece from Sunday. It is so similar to the piece I played for Postlude that morning. Both are Fanfares and very Festive!

Tatting: An (lost) art

The Art Show is open. Tickets are $10 each or 7 for $40. My box is on the very bottom, right next to the floor. I’ll be curious to see how many tickets make their way into that wee slot. Apparently, a good friend from out of town called the Carmel Bach Festival Office, asked for 7 tickets to be put into the box. I wonder if you can get tickets over the phone. I shouldn’t think so, but maybe…..

The Opening reception was fun. Lots of people in a small space. The artists are mostly sometime professionals and hobbyists. Quite a few have been participating for many years. That means there wasn’t anyone dressed to make a shocking statement which I appreciated. For this show, it’s not about the ART, it’s about MUSIC and specifically raising money for the Carmel Bach Festival. ‘nuff said…just fun!

My title for this post comes from the frequently heard comment, “Isn’t that a lost art?” We’ve all heard that when tatting in public. I’ve also heard something along the lines of, “My Aunt tried to teach me that.” Even a wistful, “I wish I could tat.” Well, last night I heard, “I’m glad tatting is not a lost art. I think your piece is ART!" That made me feel like I’m on the right track. I am not (no raised voice, just humbleness) highly trained, not crafty, not a bored housewife. I am an artist who represents music in thread. I am aware there are some who have a hard time calling anything that isn’t a painting art. Their loss! I choose to enjoy music, thread, and tatting!

Come by the show in the gallery off the raised patio. It’s open most days. Tickets can be bought just before, during, or after Bach Fest events at Sunset Center. Stuff that box! Win some art! Support the Festival!

Dawn’s a-comin’!

That’s what my Grandpa used to say whenever he was getting ready to go somewhere or do something. He was a farmer and blacksmith. Another favorite quip was, “fire’s ready!”

July will start in a few days. I’m feeling like the fire is stoked and I’m just about ready for it. I’m thinking Carmel Bach Festival. I know there are a plethora of music festivals every year; many focus on Bach or another composer. There’s a world famous Jazz Festival every year in Monterey. And that’s just one of a half dozen that happen in this area. I hope I’ll be able to explore Cabrillo Festival some year. And the Folk Festival sounds really cool! But, in a few short days, Bach Festival will be happening.

And I’m ready!

The only part I’m directly contributing to is the Art Auction. Here’s an invitation to the Opening. If you’re in the area, consider yourself invited. Please RSVP so the hard working committee won’t be surprised and fret they didn’t prepare enough for the evening. It’s always hard to predict how many will come and they do a wonderful job for the hospitality. 

Oh, and buy a ticket and stuff my box!

Mark your calendars!

Tuesday, July 9, 2019

That’s when the Art Raffle for Bach Festival starts. It runs through the Festival until July 27. There will be tickets available for purchase during any Festival event at the Sunset Center.

I turned in BWV 549 this afternoon. You can stuff the box for my doily at any time the gallery is open.

Hope to see you in Carmel.

From despair to completion

The tatting is done! Now to finish it.

I’m leaning towards just starching this piece. Most of the time I like to either let it be with just a blocking, or if necessary, mount it on a piece of fabric, even framing it under glass.

But this one just doesn’t want to be tamed!

I like people being able to touch and handle the tatting. Maybe because I always want to feel clothing and tablecloths and napkins and well, anything made with thread! I’ll be starching it tomorrow. Don’t expect pictures for a few weeks. The show will open soon and then I can post.

In the meantime, listen to BWV 549. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwvHiPOrcJ4

Why beads matter

I stated in the previous post that I hold the opinion that a tatting pattern should be pleasing to tat in many combinations of materials. I also stated I use beads intentionally in some patterns. BWV 549 is one of those intentional patterns. 

Beads represent when the pedal states the subject and/or motif. You see, Bach used the pedal division of the organ to highlight a compositional idea. On the organs he played, some of the lower pipes (read tuba, double bass viol) spoke very slowly. They always remind me of the lumbering elephants; not unimportant, not without emotion, not flashy or piercing. Other lower pipes (read horn, bassoon, trombone) spoke quickly and pierced through the sound of the rest of the organ. They could accent the piece and be memorable. Bach often used the pedal division to sum up his fugues. The last statement of the subject is powerful and memorable.  

In BWV 549 (Prelude and Fugue in c minor) Bach extends the last fugue subject into a flourish of sound with the pedal leading the way. So beads….

Just enough to be memorable.

Time to reach my goal

Ok…if I’m honest….past time!!

I almost had the tatting done on the Bach Fest piece. But, it just wasn’t cuttin’ it. So, I started over. I know, I know…..I may not have time to frame it nicely now. I can live with that though. It’s looking much nicer now.

Better get to the shuttles!!!

Home again, Home again

Trips are always a disruption. Pleasant, but you get out of your routine. Thus, I have little to share here. Of course, that’s also because I’m in the midst of tatting up my Bach Fest piece which I cannot share until after the Show opens. Same with preparing for Tat Days. So, I’ll turn to music to share.

Last week was a traumatic week. The fire on Tuesday of Holy Week at Notre Dame, Holy Week, and well Holy Week! (My daughter was born on Tuesday of Holy Week. I always am a bit more alert that day!) The good news:

The Grand Orgue is OK as are a fair number of other priceless items that enjoyed being in Notre Dame. There will need to be repairs for years and the organ may never sound the same. The building matters in an organ installation. And water and electricity don’t mix. There’s a lot to assess for repairs and repairs to do! I’ll be looking for ways to help out from this little slice of Paradise. If you have ideas, let me know!

Hair bun holder is finished!

It is done! Ready to wear on our trip. Pictures when I return.

Now on to finishing other projects. Maybe I’ll get back to the Monster Doily. Maybe I’ll complete an earring or two. Oh! And there’s the Bach Fest Piece to design and tat.

So much to tat! So little time!!!

....But.....

I am a Geek……But…..

I love tools……But…..

I love using my hands…..But….

It’s music whether it’s on the piano or organ.

It’s lace whether it’s tatted with needle or shuttle.

It’s salad whether you slice or tear.

[sigh]

Let’s just enjoy creating! Ok?

[rant finished]

I’ll be turning in my application to help raise funds for Carmel Bach Festival with a piece of tatting in their Art Raffle. I already have ideas. I must finish the bun holder before I finalize what thread and color and if there will be bling or beads or……

So, I’m off to the beach to exercise with a walk while listening to the fugue just one more time!

Oh, and Geeks Rule!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s Bach Festival time!

That means a lot of events for me to attend. Open Rehearsals are fun. The musicianship really impresses each time. And the music is explained by very knowledgeable people. And of course the concerts!

Last night was a wonderful experience at St. Dunstan’s. The organ didn’t disappoint. The trumpet was fabulous. The audience was attentive, appreciative, and very impressed. I can’t wait to hear what comments are shared. I still can’t get over Viole Celeste in Bruhns! As I was listening the word magical came to mind. That reminded me of the magic square pattern I discovered the other day. Thank you Muskaan for helping us all see the world in a better way! Which got me thinking…… It Could Work!

Tonight is the Art Raffle Reception. It will be fun to see how the other artists react to the pieces. There are some creative, inspired art on those walls. Even a bit of humor! I hope to refine some ideas later this week.

And another mistake

Well, I didn’t have enough thread. I used the shortcoming in my shuttle winding to demonstrate how I add in thread. There are quite a few ways, but I like to use a weaver’s knot at the base of a ring or chain and hide ends in the elements on either side. That leaves an extra bump and sometimes the stitches are a smidge fatter over the ends, but then I have less chance of the knot fiasco on round 2. My preference. Again, no pictures until after the Auction closes.

Back to Sonata

The final piece is coming along. I can’t say well.....just coming along. I find working in black size 80 thread is tough. The best part: it doesn’t show dirt and dust. Size 80. It's just tough for me to work with. I didn’t get a knot firmly tied in round 2 of the edging. That resulted in a chain coming loose. I think I have that corrected with some Fray-Check. Not my preference, but I’m running out of time! I realized while out on a walk Saturday that I did not correctly load the beads for round 4. Black thread is tough. One bead in each repeat (of the size 15 beads on the size 80 thread) should be a bead join, not a bead picot. Nothin’ for it but to take all those itty-bitty beads off and rethread them. Sigh! I think I’m ready to finish round 3 now. I hope I have enough thread on the shuttle…..