Big News from the Spidey Cave

If my ship sails from sight, it doesn't mean my journey ends, it simply means the river bends.

- Enoch Powell

Life is such a beautiful piece of art that is forever evolving with each layer of experience we encounter, each opportunity we create. It requires patience, flexibility, and passion. Being mindful to look inwards to your true self, as well as outwards to the world for inspiration. 

My journey with visual expression has taken me on the most unexpected paths filled with beauty, love, and growth. With the most unexpected means of inspiration, and the most incredible opportunities. Something I've learned along the way, whether it be in my artistic journey, or journey though life as a whole, is that we must be open to the changes that come along, and trust that life is guiding us in the right direction. Trusting the process. 

A lot of people tell me they'd love to try to a class, but they can't draw a stick man. So I tell them, in my classes, we don't draw stick people. I try to make art approachable for everyone. I want to make it a fun experience. Sometimes challenging, only to show everyone that they are capable of creating, that they can follow through on a task, and complete it with a beautiful result. I want to share the experience of the process. Getting lost in the brushstrokes, feeling the textures of the pastels, hypnotized by line movements of a pencil. Creating time and space to liberate yourself in a creative way. I like to deconstruct the final outcome into approachable steps to make it less intimidating. In this practice, we learn that anything is possible, depending how we view it, feel it, and execute it. So at the end of the class, the person who couldn't draw a stick man, has now created a completed masterpiece. Nothing is more rewarding than the way their eyes light up when they see what they created. When they unleash their potential. (Maybe I should offer a class on how to draw stick people now that I think about it. There are a lot of people who can't draw stick figures, good market to tap into haha)

“Life is pure adventure, and the sooner we realize that, the quicker we will be able to treat life as art.” 

-Maya Angelou

I've discovered something over the past few years. This reoccurring trend in my life. This past year I decided to finally start trusting this trend. You see, life has this incredible way of presenting opportunities to me at the right time. Life unfolds the most wonderful experiences when it knows I am ready. I still experience fear and hesitation but I am learning to trust the process more.

Our lives are one incredible adventure.  Mine has led me down very unexpected roads. I'm about to set sail on a new unexpected adventure amigos. Ahh, this is so hard to share with you all. It's a very bittersweet adventure. One I am very much looking forward to, but one that brings much sadness. April will mark the end of art classes in the Spidey Cave here in Amherst. I will be moving to the St. Margaret's Bay area to begin a new, and very exciting chapter in life. I can't express how sad it is to leave behind the most incredible, supportive, wonderful group of creative souls who have shared so many phenomenal colourful adventures with me here in Amherst. It's a very yucky feeling having to change up this awesome routine we have going here. So I put a lot of thought into it and I have come up with some ideas that will help me to continue sharing art with you all, even if I no longer live here.

•  Art classes will be available online - hopefully starting in May. Which means, you can create art in the comfort of your home..and maybe even in your pajamas! That's not too shabby of a deal haha.  

• I will be offering all of my current clients, and anyone who joins in on the art classes between now and the last class in April a FREE online art class. The first online class will be the birdhouse painting that was scheduled for May's acrylics class. 

• For those of you who have purchased a gift certificate for art classes, I will be in touch to arrange alternative options. You may choose to                                                                                 - use that amount towards the class once it is available in video format                                                                                   OR                                                                                            - schedule a private lesson in April to replace the class - still create the same piece.                                                               **Please contact me if you have any questions, or concerns or if you do not  receive and email from me.**

• I may have to do a little rescheduling of classes for April. It would be for the Paint Like A Master Class currently scheduled for April 28 and 29. I would have to move them to the week of the 21, or maybe the 14. I will give plenty of notice though.  

• I am looking into the idea of coming back to Amherst on a weekend say, or during school holidays (ex: Spring Break, or the summer) and renting a space to host a day of art. Lot's of details to figure out with this one so it may take a little bit of time, but I would love to hear feedback on what you think of this idea! Please. These classes are all about you amigos! I will keep you posted on this so stay tuned to my FB page for updates on this.                            **This may also be an option for private parties as well**    

•  If you happen to be traveling my way over the summer holidays check in to see if I'm having any classes that week, or feel free to book a session with me. I'm planning on spreading my love of art to those in the St. Margaret's Bay area, and there will definitely be a Spidey Cave ready for imaginations and lots of creations.

• The 'Liberate Your Inner Artist Card' will still be available to use and includes online classes as well! Your 6th class will always be free. 

Well amigos, I gotta be honest, that was incredibly hard to write. I want you all to know how much you mean to me, and how proud I am of everything you create. How happy I am to see your passion for art.  I know it's another two months away...but I am going to miss every single one of you. I know this is not a good bye, it's a 'See ya now the once!' type of parting. Goodbyes mean it'll be, like, a REALLY long time before you see them again. See ya now the once, isn't that long..depending I spose on how you say it haha. No seriously, it's not as long. I'll be back as often as I can for workshops, and art days, and maybe even parties.

Amherst, you have liberated your inner artist! I want to thank you for allowing me to share my passion with you. Thank you for trusting in the process and seeing the beautiful results of your work. Thank you for your support in making these art classes possible! 

Much love to you all!

Art Classes 2013

Hey Everyone!! I have a super exciting announcement. Art classes are back!!! I know it's been months of anticipation and I am sorry for the prolonged delay. There has been a tremendous amount of change in my life over the past while that required all of my attention and energy. I missed making art with you all and I hope you are just as excited to have the opportunity to create again. I want to thank all of you for being so patient and understanding. Your support has been a ray of sunshine and will be treasured in my heart for a long time. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart!! xo

I also used this time away from teaching and sharing my passion with you to reflect on the classes. What was working, what I could improve on, and how I can provide a better experience for you all.
My goal is ensure I provide you with the most enjoyable and educational experience while keeping the prices at an affordable level. I also need to consider my work and love that goes into these classes both behind the scenes and in class. So with great reflection and consideration I will now share with you the changes of the class structure. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

I will now be posting classes for three months at a time. The first batch will be March, April, and May. Seats fill up quickly so be sure to save your spot by confirming via email to myself either on my Facebook page, or at sadiejane26@hotmail.ca. Unfortunately just clicking the 'going' or 'maybe' option in the event on Facebook is not official confirmation. A private message or email must be sent to confirm your seat. I will then send you directions and a materials list if required.




Classes will be broken into four categories. 1 hour, 1.5 hours, and 2 hours and Specialty classes.  Materials may be extra and if so it will be stated in the class description. In the event that materials are extra you  can choose to pay an additional fee to have materials included.
Class descriptions including fees and seat availability can be found under the 'Events' section on my page as well as on my website.


Private Individual Lessons are $30.00 for the first hour, and an additional $15.00 per additional hour. Materials may be extra and if so it will be stated. In the event that materials are extra you can choose to pay an additional fee to have materials included.

Private Group Lessons are $20.00 per person for the first hour, and an additional $5.00 per additional hour. Materials may be extra and if so it will be stated in the class description. In the event that materials are extra you can choose to pay an additional fee to have materials included. Private group lessons require a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5.



All classes including private group lessons have a maximum of  5 seats.

Payment for classes must be made in cash. I will accept e-transfers if the payment transaction is made and accepted prior to the class.


Cancellations 
In the event that you have to cancel your seat please give me at least 24 hours notice. Contact me through private message on my Facebook page or by e-mail at sadiejane26@hotmail.ca.  This allows others who may be interested in coming enough notice so they can liberate their inner artist as well. If you have to cancel the day of classes you still have to pay for your seat. We will discuss payment arrangements privately.
Given that it is still winter the following rules will apply. Classes will resume as long as local businesses are open. If they begin to close, I will also cancel classes for the night and reschedule. I will post updates regarding cancellations on my Facebook page so be sure to follow.

Loyalty Cards
Satisfy your inner artist! Attend 5 classes and get your 6th class free! This card is only valid for public classes and does include private lessons or private groups. Materials are extra unless you are attending the 'Intuitive Expressions' class or 'Pepperoni & Pointillism' class.


   

Take A Bow

My show at Bella's has come to an end. I can't believe it started seven months ago! I want to give a very special thank you to the owner's and staff and Bella's Cafe and Bistro for displaying my work and providing me with the opportunity to join other local artists in a show that was intended to raise awareness towards mental health. My first paintings of 2012 along with a special guest appearance from my last painting of 2011 were included in the show. I was very fortunate and sold two paintings from this collection! YAHOO!

As I picked up my paintings and brought them home a slight sadness came over me. It has been a long time since I worked on paintings for art shows, galleries, or even just my online collection. I feel as though I need to clone myself. One Sadie to work on marketing, one Sadie to work on paintings, one Sadie to teach classes, and one Sadie to work at Telus hahaha. I don't think the world could handle more that many Sadie's,  one is more than enough. So back to my trusty agenda I go and see how I can organize my time so I can get back into the cave and dive into painting again. I'd love to seek out new opportunities for shows and put more energy back into my paintings again for sales and exposure.

In the meantime, I must get ready for work, and then return home for a painting class!! YAHOO! So on that note, create yourself a great day folks!!



The remaining three paintings are still available for sale;

These Strings Bring Wisdom
2012
Acrylic on Canvas
6x6
$70 plus S&H

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Growth
2012
Acrylic on Canvas
10x10
$120 plus S&H

Beautiful Spirit
2012
Acrylic on Canvas
20x20
$400 plus S&H

Art Classes Information and FAQ's

As some of you may have noticed I have recently posted information regarding art classes on my Facebook page as well as on my website. I thought I would use my blog as an opportunity to explain these changes for classes and private lessons. Below you will find a copy of the post. It includes information on class prices, how to register for a class, and other frequently asked questions.

I began teaching art classes in Amherst over the summer. At the time it was my only job so I was fortunate enough to be very flexible when choosing my hours for classes and private lessons. I offer my classes at low prices to ensure everyone has the opportunity to explore their inner artist. Despite the significant increase in class popularity, I had to seek out another means of income. I was recently hired on for a full time position with Telus. So far I'm really enjoying the new career avenue and opportunities that come with it. With this full time position comes a more limited schedule for my classes. During this time as I learn to combine the two schedules some classes are subject to change depending on my hours. I will try my best to make this transition an easy one with as much notice as possible. Due to this it is important that everyone is aware of the process for confirming seats and what to do in the event that you must cancel. All this information is provided below.

I thank you all for your understanding and patience at this time. Hopefully it will be a quick transition period.  I want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to explore their creative side and liberate their inner artist.  Feel free to message me at any time if you want to inquire about booking a private lesson or join a class.






Class Information

Classes are $15.00 plus tax (that's $17.25 all together). Materials may be extra and if so it will be stated in the class description. In the event that materials are extra you  can choose to pay an additional fee to have materials included.

Private Individual Lessons are $25.00 plus tax (that's $28.75 all together). Materials may be extra and if so it will be stated in the class description. In the event that materials are extra you can choose to pay an additional fee to have materials included.

Private Group Lessons are $15.00 plus tax per person. (that's $17.25 all together). Materials may be extra and if so it will be stated in the class description. In the event that materials are extra you can choose to pay an additional fee to have materials included. Private group lessons require a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5.

Class descriptions including fees and seat availability can be found under the 'Events' section on my page as well as on my website.

All classes including private group lessons have a maximum of 5 seats.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What ages do you teach?
A: At this time I have classes available for ages 7-12, 13-17, and 18+.  Private lessons start from ages 5+.

Q: What kind of experience do I need?
A: No experience is necessary. All of the classes are designed to help artists of all levels explore their creative side.

Q: Do I need to wear a smock or old clothes?
A: For most of the classes we will be using acrylic paints which does not wash out of clothes. It is best to wear something you don't mind getting a little messy.  

Q: How do I save my seat?
A: To confirm your seat you must send me a private message or email me at sadiejane26@hotmail.ca . I will then send you directions and a materials list if required.

Q: When should I save my seat?
A: To ensure you have a seat please try to confirm it ASAP and no later than 6pm the day before the class. In the event that there are still available seats for the class you can contact me the day of and if at all possible I will fit you in.

Q: On the event page for the class I said I was 'going'. Doesn't this count as confirmation?
A: Unfortunately just clicking the 'going' or 'maybe' option in the event is not official confirmation. A private message or email must be sent to confirm your seat. I will then send you directions and a materials list if required.

Q: How do I pay for my class?
A: Payments are to be made in cash. You can choose to pay in advance or the day of your class. If you wish to pre pay for your classes you can do so through Pay-Pal or other arrangements can be made in private discussion. Cheques are not accepted.  

Q: It says materials are extra. Where can I purchase them?
A: Once you have confirmed your seat through private message or e-mail I will send you a list of required materials including locations where they can be purchased and prices.

Q: Do you give sibling discounts?
A: Unfortunately sibling discounts are not available. I have chosen to offer art classes at low prices to ensure everyone has the opportunity to explore their inner artist.


Q: How do students complete art projects so quickly in one of your classes?
A:  A lot of work is done behind the scenes prior to the class. In fact hours are spent researching, creating, and managing time to ensure the students experience an educational and fun class where they are able to bring home their very own masterpieces in a reasonable time frame. 

 
Q: What If I have to cancel my seat?
A:  In the event that you have to cancel your seat please give me at least 24 hours notice. Contact me through private message on my Facebook page or by e-mail at sadiejane26@hotmail.ca.  This allows others who may be interested in coming enough notice so they can liberate their inner artist as well. If you have to cancel the day of classes you still have to pay for your seat. We will discuss payment arrangements privately.


  ☮ ♥ ㋡
Sadie Jane

A Year In Review

A year ago today I packed up my suitcase, said goodbye to my precious little boys and boarded a plane for Nova Scotia. As heartbreaking as it was I knew I was leaving my furbabies in really good hands which put my heart at ease a little.

The first week was a brilliant distraction. We spent it with Craig's Dad and Stepmom doing tourist-type things around Halifax. I am so thankful for all they did. Not only did we manage to get a lot of great adventures in, but I was also able to distract from the reality of the significant changes occurring in my world.

Before we knew it we were headed to Amherst where the reality of the situation really sunk in. Each day my heart seemed to break a little more as I new my time with the love of my life was coming to an end and he would be returning to Newfoundland with our three boys. I'm horrible with goodbyes. The day he packed up the car and began his drive back to the Rock, his mom, Beth packed up her car and drove me to the cabin. It is one of the most peaceful places I have been since moving here. We spent the long weekend there surrounded by inspiring women who over the next twelve months would all impact my life in significant ways.

The first few weeks were challenging as I learned to adapt to my new surroundings, sat behind the drivers seat again for the first time in seven years, and began this new life here. I met some incredible friends. Before Craig left he had introduced me to two of his friends, who have become two of my closest amigos since living here. Sean and Sarah have gone above and beyond for me. From games night to surprise road trips and everything in between. I then met Jeannine through the gym. What a burst of sunshine she is! Jeannine is like a personal cheerleader, you can't help but feel motivated by her. - she is truly an incredible inspiration. Through Jeannine I was able to meet Stefanie. Stef is one of those people who when you meet, the universe shakes haha. I'm sure I must have known her in a previous life. We had this instant connection that couldn't be ignored and have since become really close friends. As I explored my creative opportunities here through various art shows I met Lisa from L.A. Crafts  and Jackie from Surprise!! Baskets & Gifts .

A part of me longed be back home with the familiar faces I had been missing, living in the nest Craig and I had only moved into months before in such a grand location. I missed the salt air tangling my hair, and the crashing waves washing over my soul. I had made a commitment though, and returning home was not an option. So Craig continued to search for work here, and I continued to practice an open mind to my new surroundings and focused on the opportunity for self growth and exploration. Before I knew it it was Christmas and my family was moving here to join me. There are no words to describe how incredibly wonderful that felt.

As the epic adventures faded with the autumn leaves winter quickly brought me into this state of social hibernation. I put more energy into my paintings and into my personal life as I enjoyed the warmth of the nest while the winter winds blew outside. Thankfully Spring soon arrived and we welcomed it with open arms. This new season brought many new and unexpected twists and turns in my path called 'Life'. Some were fabulous turns, and some were very challenging twists. Together as a team me and Craig stood strong together and adjusted our sails. I spent many hours at the Bird Sanctuary connecting with nature as I tried to reconnect with nature and find balance. As I began to make the transition from hibernation into Spring, my soul sister Andi flew down for a week. It was her first time out east and we soaked it all up with breathtaking adventures.I am truly grateful for her time spent here.

Spring quickly blossomed into Summer and I emerged from my cocoon. I had an opportunity to pursue one of my dreams and after some hesitation, I jumped in with both feet. I began advertising art classes again. I was - and still am- amazed at how quickly the amount of interest in these classes grew from the community and surrounding areas given the limited marketing resources I have been using. It feels incredible to share my passion of art with others again in a hands on way. Through this new avenue I've meet some incredible people. Most recently being Rozlind and Amy. I had met Rozlind online through a Facebook page that is similar to the concept of 'Freecycle'. She was organizing her art supplies and had some things she was no longer using. I dropped by to pick up the items so I could share them with the students in my 'Intuitive Expressions' class. Before I knew it three hours had passed and we still hadn't ran out of things to talk about. Another instant connection was made.

There has been many incredibly wonderful opportunities for me since moving here, balanced with some pretty challenging struggles that have helped me grow. I've developed some amazing friendships here and created many wonderful memories. Though my heart will always be back in Newfoundland I will forever be thankful for the all the new people who have come into my life.
I wonder what the next twelve months has in store for me.

Liberate Your Inner Artist

 It's time to liberate your inner artist!!

 I want to share my love for art with YOU!

Starting July 5th I will be offering both private and group art classes from my nest.  Are you ready to get messy with acrylics? It doesn't matter if you already express yourself with art, or have never touched a paint brush before. My classes are personalized for all levels. Gain confidence as you learn how to express yourself through painting. In an encouraging creative environment setting we will explore the world of art as we learn new techniques, study the masters, and experiment with different styles of painting.


So how will this work? 

Given the limited amount of space I have, group classes will have a maximum of 5 artists. Which means you must book  and pay for your seat before the class to ensure you have a spot. When you message me to confirm your seat we can arrange for payment. Over the next few days I will have all classes posted on my  facebook page  along with descriptions and cost my events section on my page, as well as on my website. All materials will be covered in the cost of class unless otherwise specified. If materials are not included, I will send you a list once you are registered of the materials required and where to purchase them. This list will have two options for supplies depending on your budget.

There are different age groups for the classes. These groups are broken down into ages 7-12, 13-17, and 18+.  Be sure when registering that you chose the correct age group. Some classes, like Pepperoni and Pointillism will be offered on an ongoing basis. Each class we will do a different painting.

Interested in a private lesson? We can pick from classes available, or customize a class that suits your level and interest.

When you arrive be sure to be wearing old clothes. Acrylic paint will not come out of your clothes. No need to dress to impress here haha!


Are you as excited as I am? I hope so! Can't wait to see you and get our art on!

It's All Working Out

I just curled up by the fireplace with my laptop and the rain decided to stop. I'm slightly disappointed. I was looking forward to blogging with a cuppa tea, the warm cozy glow of the fire and the sound of rain pitter-pattering on the window. However that does mean I can do laundry and put it out on the line. I see the sun brightly coming through the clouds. Which is perfect timing. Last night, as part of the 'Taste of Home' theme, we went to Beth's mom's for dinner. On the menu was scrunchions n cod fish with all the finixin's, white gravy too! Its a favortie of Beths. In all honesty, even though its a classic back home, I never had it before (weird I know, I swear I'm from Newfoundland!) but sure enough it turns out I like it. Though I did have to go get seconds on the prime rib part of the cooked dinner. That was just divine.

Well my nerves are gone today worried about the upcoming art show. I think I have met my most challenging theme So far in m blogs (for all my new readers, this relates back to my 'Stepping up to the Boogeyman' post. Trusting the process...which really is just a sweet way of saying giving up the need to control haha). My first art show is coming up at The Sprout and I have to trust the process (give up control bahhh!!!).  However, my friend Dominique and I have been talking through e-mail back and forth all morning about the show. She and her friend Lori will also be displaying their work. Dominique and I met in June. Her story begins here with how she arrived in Newfoundland. She first connected with me through a Kijiji Ad I had posted about an art class I was teaching. We connected with our mutual interest in this particular class and agreed to connect when she arrived. Today through email I was telling Dominique how I was feeling stressed and anxious about not being home to be hands on with this show. The what ifs, the if onlys, and so on. And she responded to me with something I just have to share, because the truth rang out so loudly to me I could feel myself being blown back and thinking Wow! You're right!'. I couldn't help but feel proud of us. Her response;

We had envisioned a group show at some coffee place - the universe has made it possible to partner even if you're away. Love it. You and I manifested this..... It's all working out. - Dominique

She couldn't be more true. We had spent an entire day walking from one end of the main downtown area in St. Johns to the other where we could potentially find a coffee shop, gallery, tourist shop that we could display our work for sale. Something we may have never done solo. The commitment we made together made it easier to go out and just finally do it! Dominique was able to attend workshops, and together we supported each other's goal to establish ourselves as artists in St. John's. It was so wonderful to both be at the bottom of this chain and ensure no level of competition or negative hidden agendas were present at all. We truly wanted to see each other thrive in this city as artists, and respected the dream, the passion, the sense of being it brings us to be an artist. You're right Dominique, WE DID IT! Now I just have to trust the process that the people I have asked to help me set up the show will do it the way I would like (not one bit particular for a newbie hey b'y! haha).

I think this will be the biggest theme for this weeks challenge life is throwing at me. On a very personal level I am facing some pretty big giant walls that I have to decide if I am willing to keep standing behind, find a way through, over or around, or put the control of that wall in the hands of someone else. Bottom line is I have to make decisions, BIG MEGA GIANT decisions that requires adult pants and then trust that I may have been able to control the final decision making, but the rest of the process will have lots of elements that I can't control and that it's OK!. (my mind is screaming no it's not right now, but I have to say the opposite to get me through..it will be ok!). \

It's all working out, just at its own pace. I must learn to grow more patience and be ok with that.

So today I decided to dedicate to preparing myself for a week of feeling uncomfortable. I cleaned my room and trying to change a few details to change the energy flow, about to start laundry (so many distractions since I started this blog hours ago..the sun is finally out completely and ready for a line of freshly washed clothes) do some reading and get my things together for meetings tomorrow. Prepare as much as I can for my paintings on this end before mailing out the 'directions' and hoping for the best.

I also feel super tired today....I think I may have to call it an early night just to fully recharge.

Take time to enjoy this fall day everyone!