ArtAffects Coalition: Offering Issue 1 by Bryan Clapper

Offering ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

The official magazine of the

ArtAffects Coalition

Vol. 1, Issue 1 â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2013

The Brunson Hill Art House 272 Brunson Ave. Benton Harbor, MI 49022 269.252.8207 http://www.artaffectscoalition.org/brunsonhillarthouse.html

Free and open art classes every regular Saturday from noon-4pm. Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

After painting at the Brunson Hill Art House Photo by Diana Clark

Letter

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Hello World!

I am extremely pleased to present you with Offering: a brand new arts magazine by ArtAffects Coalition. Our desire at ArtAffects is that our magazine will showcase the best of grassroots Teaching Artists, Art Gardeners, and the sponsors they work with to create ‘free and open’ community spaces. To give our magazine a passionate leader with clear vision, I asked Maria Falce to be Editor-inChief. Maria, who has been producing her own newsletter ‘Your Infinite Heart Zine’, is dedicated to raising awareness about the wealth of healing practitioners, merchants, artists, and visionaries available to all of us in our local community. She has a deep knowledge of healing plants and practices and is passionate about building a connected and supported community. She took the job of Chief Editor for Offering with a heart full of love and a mind full of ability. Offering is published to introduce the seasons (May, August, December and February). The magazine is a resource for creative connections to help our communities thrive. We will showcase working Teaching Artists and Art Gardeners, student artists, community gardens, special events, free art classes, our sponsors and artistic endeavors. We hope to grow our magazine to fully represent the beautiful diversity we see in the communities around us. We are passionate about dynamic, creative connections and Offering is our platform to engage the world. If you are interested in our magazine for educational or promotional reasons, please contact us. Offering will be made available online, in local artistic hot-spots, as well as mailed to all sponsors and members. Offering is from all of us to the World. We hope our readers are as inspired reading it as we have been creating it. Step into Art with us. Peace and Love,

Laura Sandmann Summer 2013

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Inside Who We Are

Offering ArtAffects Coalition

The official magazine of the

ArtAffects Coalition

Vol. 1, Issue 1 • Summer 2013

5 Summer 2013

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Publisher Laura Sandmann

Feature: Living a Creative Life Meet the ArtAffects Board

Executive Director Art Affects

laurasandmann@artaffectscoalition.org

7 10

Montage

12 Feature: Tie-Dye Fundraiser a Colorful Day

Summer 2013 Class Schedule

14 15

Student Proﬁle: Tryekell Davis

Feature: Tie-Dye Process Makes Perfect

Teaching Artists: Creatrix Hope and Jasmine Robinson

Feature: Art and Gardening Feature: R Evolution! Artist Spotlight: Tad Eastman 4

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Editor Maria Falce

mariafalce@artaffectscoalition.org

Art Affects Board of Directors

Jasmine Robinson, President Maria Falce, Vice-President Sandra Ames Kaiser, Secretary Creatrix Hope, Treasurer Bob Fowler Amy Kehrer James Kehrer Brittany Stecker Anthony Andrews Dyann Chenault Lola Yost

Design

Bryan Clapper, Squire Co. squiremarketing.com

Artaffectscoalition.org Brunson Hill Art House 272 Brunson Avenue Benton Harbor, MI 49022 LauraSandmann@artaffectscoalition.org Mission Statement Art Affects: To support dynamic, creative connections between artists, observers and investors. Mission Statement Art Affects Magazine: To showcase ArtAffects events and activities and introduce the community to our artists and mission. Art Affects Magazine is published quarterly (May, August, November & February) by Art Affects Coalition in Sw Michigan. Distribution is to members and sponsors and is printed on FSC-certified, acid-free and fully recyclable paper. Subscriptions available for $25.00 per year.

Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us. Thank you.

Who

WE ARE…

Have you ever seen art being done and thought, “I wish I could do that”? That moment is why ArtAffects has been created. We are a Coalition of Artists intent on making opportunities in every day settings for people “outside” of art to step “inside” of art. 2013 is our first year, and we are excited about what it will bring.

Bringing Arts and Teaching Artists into neighborhoods on the street level in community gardens and open class environments, making them accessible to all people, puts the power of creativity into the hands of those who desperately need it: everyone.

Today’s culture is a face-paced environment, and as ArtAffects Teaching Artists we are passionate about sharing who we are in new settings. We want to find surprising opportunities to engage our communities in the Arts. Traditionally, engagement in the Arts looks like standard public art and typical classroom environments.

To us, that can look like high-quality street art. It can look like Community Art Gardens sponsored by local shops, and art classes at local restaurants. It can look like franchises partnering with Teaching Artists to develop their staff and create unique customer experiences. It can look like murals, musical groups, performance and improv. It can look like helping each other create a better world.

We are offering an alternative. To bring the Arts and Teaching Artists into business, commercial and corporate environments can create a much-needed shift in productive energies.

Summer 2013

That is who we are. We are world builders. We are ArtAffects. —Laura Sandmann

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

NG A

Offering ArtAffects

The official magazine of the

Art Affects Coalition

Vol. 1, Issue 1 • May 2013

Student PROFILE T

The path is clear for 16-year old Tryekell Davis, a junior at Benton Harbor High School; he is an artist. Playing baritone in the school band as well as being an avid drummer creating and performing his own work, Tryekell plans to continue his study of music in college, beginning his career as a music director and producer. But music is not his only passion. Tryekell has been hanging out at the Brunson Hill Art House since he was 12. 2009: He created an entire set of batik tie-dye t-shirts, one for each member of his family.

2013: Tryekell finds himself back at the Art House

of government subsidized neighborhoods by a community ‘Art House’ where people can rn practical skills from a neighborhood Artiste now found in Detroit, Benton Harbor, and

e only artists to accept an actual ‘live-in’ position ses.

e staffed intermittently by area Art Teachers.

Tryekell feels that art will always play a big role in his life. “It motivates you to do more…” he feels and is the foundation for “creative conversations with like-minded people.” “Tryekell has always had a strong entrepreneurial spirit,” says Laura Sandmann, Teaching Artist and Executive Director of Art Affects. From performance and musical groups, busking at the Art Hop with his cousin to making snack bags to sell to area kids. He always finds creative ways to connect and thrive.

that participate in this organization, what do you think you and the kids gain from them having a little bit of a different lifestyle and perspective of art? LAURA: To see daily evidence of the power of creativity is my family’s greatest asset. The abnormal lifestyle and perspectives on art leave us constantly making choices using creative problem solving skills. So this unique view of the power of creativity makes us very powerful problem solvers.

Whether it’s music, ceramics or tie-dye, you can trust that Tryekell Davis will be engaging life creatively.

Offering: Art Affects Coalition

By Maria Falce Editor and Board Vice-President

mmm…we’ll need soda ash, dental floss, a swath of natural fabric and dyes… No, MacGyver is not in the house but Tad and Laura of Art Affects and Brunson Hill Art House are and they are gearing up to paint the world beautiful! “There’s nothing like a Tad-star,” says Laura Sandmann, executive director and Teaching Artist of Art Affects as Tad Eastman’s mandala tie-dyes are called. The lines are crisp, colors clear; each one unique like a flower in a meadow. I asked James Kehrer of A Honu Tie Dye “what is the key to a good tie dye?”

This is just the beginning. Join Art Affects this summer June 21, during the Art Hop in the Arts District in Benton Harbor for R-Evolution! Drumming, dancing, painting, healing, concentric circles, spiraling outward…a life expressed creatively. An event you won’t want to miss!!

Photo caption goes here

CINDY: For others that have never heard of this organization, could you tell me exactly what your main purpose and the overall

Photo caption goes here

The fundraiser supported Tad Eastman and Laura Sandmann’s new project Art Affects whose mission is “To support dynamic, creative connections between artists, observers and investors.” In addition to tie dying, guests were serenaded by local artist/ musician Jeremy Depriest, there was a live drumming performance by Art House regulars Tryekell and DeJanae Davis, speed painting and an awesome chili and smoothie bar. But at the heart of it all, there was community.

2012: A scholarship to Water Street Glassworks sent Tryekell into the heat to play with molten glass.

e the events that led up to the whole idea of the

n idea that originated with Sam Thomas, a 78 GM attorney. He wanted to develop a community an to channel his investments into the betterment ds.

Creativity builds community in strong and unique ways. What we create when our hands and hearts join is greater than the work of art itself, it transcends the physical, bridging gaps that words alone cannot traverse.

2010 to 2011: Tryekell delved into drawing and ceramics and developed a love of clay. “I like to make something I am using” he says. His favorite, bowls, and he has made some beauties.

Offering: Art Affects Coalition

May 2013

THE ARTAFFECTS BOARD LOLA YOST

JAMES KEHRER

James is a designer, a storyteller, and an educator. He enjoys creating new designs and mixing colors in new and different ways. He loves to use bold colors and bizarre patterns to create his fresh and innovative tie dye style. Whether he is unwrapping dyed clothes, creating a new design, or ensuring everyone at a festival is fed; James is committed to all aspects of a successful tie dye business.

By Maria Falce Editor and Board Vice-President

he drum beats a steady rhythm, entwined with the heart, creating a life steeped in creativity and song…

Creative Life

Meet

DAY

By Maria Falce Editor and Board Vice-President

andmann of the Brunson Hill Art House and ArtAffects erviewed by Cindy Kaiser, a junior at St. Joseph High ked about art, raising a family in the Art House and eans to live a creative life...

PROCESS MAKES

Colorful

Tryekell Davis: Creatively Engaged with Life

Offering: Art Affects Coalition

May 2013

“The most important factor is using good materials,” he said. “You want a dye that actually reacts with the fabric, binds with it not just one that stains it. This results in vibrant colors that are brighter and longer lasting.” Being in the present moment when tying and dying is something that James learned from tie-dye legend Mama Luna. “Let the fabric talk to you…guide you. Work with the shape (and texture) of the material.” Finally, James suggests, “find a really great teacher like Tad. Someone May 2013

Hope is a single stay at home Mother who has been a participant in the Brunson Hill Art House for 3 years. Newly discovering her Artistic Abilities, Hope has decided to become a Teaching Artist for the Art Affects Coalition as well as a member of the Board as Treasurer. She Graduated in 2010 from Mama Gena’s School of Womanly Arts in New York City, and has pursued her self education in the Art of Life, seeing everything as an art. Her goal is to inspire others to express their own unique Artistic abilities, creating the Life they wish to live.

It takes practice! Tying is not for the faint of heart or those who prize flawless and delicate hands. The dental floss must be pulled tightly to show crisp lines and can cut your fingers. Laura suggests wearing a glove to protect your hands as you work. Tying with friends helps, too! Get inspiration from nature! Allow the beauty around you to inform your folds, ties and color choices to add depth and soul to your creations. Visit ArtAffectscoalition.org/artists-resources for more information, videos and tips! 17

My name is Sandra J AmesKaiser. I am Secretary on the Board of Directors for ArtAffects Coaltion and Chairperson for the ArtGarden. I have always had a draw to art and crafts in general because of my Grandmother and her abilities. She gave me many artistic skills including writing. I joined this coalition to help bring awareness and enlightenment to others through the stress relieving wonders of creativity. My hope is to see this mission spread like wildfire in all communities.

Lola Yost is a lifelong native of Southwestern Michigan and owner of Sakred Stones. In her spare time you will find her sitting at her jewelry bench, combing the beach for rocks or digging in the garden. Artist/ Designer, Organic Foodie, Master Gardener, Herbalist, Spiritual Lightworker and Divine Being are just a few of the life experiences she’s been blessed to take part in. You can see Lola’s work at etsy.com/ shop/sakredstones or on Face Book at Sakred Stones.

SANDRA KAISER

with a vision and experience who has the desire to share his/her gift.” Tad fits that bill, he has been tying and teaching for 35 years, perfecting his technique.

Offering: Art Affects Coalition

HOPE MCCLUSKEY

JASMINE ROBINSON Jasmine’s love for art, self expression, and positivity has paved the way for her to begin sharing these visions as a teaching artist and President with ArtAffects. She has worked with children and at risk youth for years and is dedicated to community development and self empowerment. She is originally from Miami, Fl but has settled into the SW Michigan region since 2010 with her daughter. She is passionate about inspiring others to discover what art means to them free from expectations, limits, and preconceived ideas. Her mission is in life is to be an inspiration of love.

Offering: Art Affects Coalition

May 2013

Editor's Inspire…Transform…Create

MUSINGS

Laura Sandmann has a vision…a passion that drives her art as well as her life. “Everyone is an artist!” Powerful words from a powerful woman; illustrating it’s not about learning as much as it is about discovering… This belief inspires more than just beautiful painting or sculpture; it is a blossoming of our full potential as human beings. When we are able to own our inner artist we live more creative lives. We respond to challenges and situations creatively rather than reactively. This helps to build strong relationships with our families, our communities, the world and ultimately our selves. When we live creatively we are building, we are healing, we are reweaving the fabric of lives torn apart by fear and divisiveness. This then creates a world of peace, of connection and of cooperation. A world that honors life deeply, that sees the uniqueness of each Being and praises that spark. When we own and honor the artist within, we are honoring the reflection of the Creator (capital C) within each of us. Envision this world with us… potential… Step Into Art!

Feel the

Maria Falce

Editor and Board Vice-President

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

LIVING A

Creative Life

Recently, Laura Sandmann of the Brunson Hill Art House and ArtAffects Coalition was interviewed by Cindy Kaiser, a junior at St. Joseph High School. They talked about art, raising a family in the Art House and about what it means to live a creative life... CINDY: What are the events that led up to the whole idea of the Art House?

LAURA: It was an idea that originated with Sam Thomas, a 78 year old retired GM attorney. He wanted to develop a community improvement plan to channel his investments into the betterment of neighborhoods. Sam’s concept of government subsidized neighborhoods which are united by a community ‘Art House’ where people can come, freely learn practical skills from a neighborhood Artistin-Residence, are now found in Detroit, Benton Harbor, and Milwakee. Tad and I are the only artists to accept an actual ‘live-in’ position with his Art Houses. The other two are staffed intermittently by area Art Teachers. Summer 2013

So the Brunson Hill Art House is an extra special experiment in social improvement because our Artists live here on Brunson Hill full time. CINDY: Now I know you have kids and even your own children that participate in this organization, what do you think you and the kids gain from them having a little bit of a different lifestyle and perspective of art? LAURA: To see daily evidence of the power of creativity is my family’s greatest asset. The abnormal lifestyle and perspectives on art leave us constantly making choices using creative problem solving skills. So this unique view of the power of creativity makes us very powerful problem solvers. CINDY: For others that have never heard of this organization, could you tell me exactly what your main purpose and the overall

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

objective was when you first started The Art House? LAURA: Until the birth of ArtAffects at the beginning of this year, our mission as Teaching Artists at the Brunson Hill Art House was to create a safe, free and comfortable place for our community to come together. We maintain that vision for the Art House, but have also birthed a broader and more communal structure with ArtAffects to properly support our Teaching Artists. CINDY: How does the art house help our society and/or show the good in humanity? LAURA: The Art House helps society by giving people a free outlet to express themselves. Many would otherwise not have the opportunity to engage artistically in such a safe and accepting environment. Right down to the fact that we offer FREE art classes, we are generating a completely supportive environment. We are supportive mentally, emotionally, and physically. We believe in being the change we want to see. CINDY: When and how did art become such a huge influence in yours and Tads lives? LAURA: We both loved art since infancy. It constantly found

Preschoolers work on collages about shapes on a ďŹ eld trip at the Brunson Hill Art House in 2011.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

itself a theme in both of our lives. Tad was more traditionally trained in Art Schools and universities. I learned at local Art Centers and am self taught. CINDY: Is there anyone like a family member that could have influenced any of that or even supported the ideas? LAURA: I have been strongly influenced by my cousin Ara Lucia. She is an important figure in my life. Tadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family, especially his Mom, has always been very encouraging and supportive of his art and the Arts in general. CINDY: In your opinion, what do you think is the most rewarding aspect of this organization? LAURA: The personal empowerment that it offers individuals. I love watching the magic that happens when people reconnect with their inner artist. CINDY: What are your official plans for the future of these members and the art house itself? i.e. future events, fundraisers... etc LAURA: We have come together in a powerful, community minded organization called ArtAffects! We have a great website set up: www.artaffectscoalition.org and are organizing a quarterly magazine and events. We have taken the magic of the Art House and broken out of its walls into the rest of this wide world. Things are just getting going for our group!

About

THE AUTHOR

CINDY: How has the Art House and ArtAffects changed your views on life and others around you? LAURA: It has shown me that I can have a life of service in the Arts. Growing up, I had no idea that was even an option. This is part of the motivation behind starting ArtAffects and helping any one with desire become a Teaching Artist. CINDY: One more question:) What specific ways do you think people can help this cause, and participate, and how is it so important?

CINDY KAISER is 16 and has loved art since she was 12. She had a her artwork displayed at the Box Factory for the Arts. She loves creating hand made gifts for her friends. Her mediums include paint, decoupage, pencils, markers, and macrame. Her aspiration is to become a tattoo artist.

LAURA: Join ArtAffects as a Sponsor or Member! We have something for everyone, including barter options, and we will keep you fully informed of our local, grassroots Arts scene! http://www.artaffectscoalition.org/joinartaffects.html

Painter contemplating color during a Saturday Class at the Brunson Hill Art House. Photo by Doug Clark Summer 2013

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Meet

THE ARTAFFECTS BOARD

JAMES KEHRER

HOPE MCCLUSKEY Hope is a single stay at home Mother who has been a participant in the Brunson Hill Art House for 3 years. Newly discovering her Artistic Abilities, Hope has decided to become a Teaching Artist for the Art Affects Coalition as well as a member of the Board as Treasurer. She Graduated in 2010 from Mama Gena’s School of Womanly Arts in New York City, and has pursued her self education in the Art of Life, seeing everything as an art. Her goal is to inspire others to express their own unique Artistic abilities, creating the Life they wish to live.

I’m a learner...been one all my life. I was born a learner and I will die a learner. Learning is life. In learning to be a jewelry designer/artist I’ve discovered a happiness that is difficult for me to express in words. It allows me to transform my chaos into bliss. It gives me the strength to reach into my deepest, darkest parts, and love them enough to create something beautiful from them. Lola Yost is a lifelong native of Southwestern Michigan and owner of Sakred Stones. In her spare time you will ﬁnd her sitting at her jewelry bench, combing the beach for rocks or digging in the garden. Artist/ Designer, Organic Foodie, Master Gardener, Herbalist, Spiritual Lightworker and Divine Being are just a few of the life experiences she’s been blessed to take part in. You can see Lola’s work at etsy.com/ shop/sakredstones or on Face Book at Sakred Stones.

SANDRA KAISER My name is Sandra J AmesKaiser. I am Secretary on the Board of Directors for ArtAffects Coaltion and Chairperson for the ArtGarden. I have always had a draw to art and crafts in general because of my Grandmother and her abilities. She gave me many artistic skills including writing. I joined this coalition to help bring awareness and enlightenment to others through the stress relieving wonders of creativity. My hope is to see this mission spread like wildfire in all communities.

LOLA YOST

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

AMY GARDNER KEHRER Amy uses her artistic skills to come up with new designs and “listening” to items of clothing to decide which designs to use. Her love of organization helps keep things moving along smoothly and her love of people helps “mate” up customers and wearable art. She also uses her passion for teaching children to pass on her love of tie dye. She can often be found at the Brunson Hill Art House teaching tie dye methods along with Tad and Laura.

BOB FOWLER

ANTHONY ANDREWS My name is Anthony Andrews; I’m paralyzed from the neck down. I’m a motivational speaker and mentor in my community. I love learning how to paint portraits at the community Art House were I am currently working on a painting. The art instructors work with you on a one on one basis if needed. They take a personal interest in the progress of their student’s achievement. It is a pleasure to be a part of.

For a little more than half of his life Bob Fowler has been a Teacher, an Entertainer, a Warrior, an Artist and a Healer. Bob’s formal education, a B.A. in English/Education, is comprised mostly of World Myths, Philosophy, World and Western Literature, Theater, and Education followed by post graduate studies in Anatomy & Physiology, Massage Therapy, The Martial Arts, Ayurveda and Eastern Medicine. As a Musician and Artist Bob’s work since the mid 1980’s has striven to express the rawest of human emotions covering the entire light spectrum from the brightest white light & love to the deepest darkest recesses of the soul. Bob’s goal as a teaching artist is to help students connect to and be informed by their own inﬁnite intelligence.

DYANN CHENAULT

BRITTANY STECKER Brittany has been an employee of the Krasl Art Center for three years as an art instructor, receptionist and gallery shop coordinator. Her specialties include paper-making, with an emphasis on recycled and natural ﬁbers, creative book-making, ceramics and abstract drawing. The art of ﬁre performance is her newest passion, incorporating the Maori art of poi and dance to brighten and enliven the spirit. She performs with her southwest Michigan based troupe, Third Coast Fire. Brittany is also involved in art installation projects for special events with her husband and his company, Polygon Environments.

Summer 2013

Vocationally, Dyann is a retired public school teacher who majored in Education and Speech and Theater and minored in Music. She taught preschool through high school. Now she teaches GED reading, writing, science and social studies. Her avocations include singing with Lake Michigan Concert choir, playing clarinet with Southshore Concert Band and throwing pots at The Art House. She is a board member of the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra and the secretary of the Symphony League. She is the president elect of Benton Harbor’s Sunrise Rotary Club and volunteers at Harbor Habitat for Humanity’s Family Services Committee.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

MARIA FALCE With a diverse background in both the culinary and healing arts; teacher, business owner, craft herbalist and spiritual writer, she is passionate about guiding people to connect with their inner voice, giving joyful birth to the inherent creativity that lives within all of us through meditation, writing and mixed media. She is an inspirational leader and facilitator of groups in meditation, process and mentoring.

TIE-DYE FUNDRAISER: A

Colorful

DAY

By Maria Falce Editor and Board Vice-President

he sun came out to play on Saturday April 6th for the Art Affects Tie Dye fundraiser and membership drive at the Brunson Hill Art House in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Warm yellow rays poured over gloved hands and eager hearts as artists new and experienced put dye to fabric in their own unique way. Allowing their souls to express its desires in color. Creativity builds community in strong and unique ways. What we create when our hands and hearts join is greater than the work of art itself, it transcends the physical, bridging gaps that words alone cannot traverse. The fundraiser supported Tad Eastman and Laura Sandmann’s new project Art Affects whose mission is “To support dynamic, creative connections between artists, observers and investors.” In addition to tie dying, guests were serenaded by local artist/ musician Jeremy Depriest, there was a live drumming performance by Art House regulars Tryekell and DeJanae Davis, speed painting and an awesome chili and smoothie bar. But at the heart of it all, there was community.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

Summer 2013 CLASS SCHEDULE

ArtAffects Coalition

Summer Ceramics Camps Goes Garden! June 24-28, 2013

Planters!

Using hand-built, wheel thrown, and pinch techniques, we will make planters for indoors and out. Our first week will finish with a Raku firing!

July 22-26, 2013

GardenOrnaments! Wind chimes, stepping stones, and toad houses will fill our week with purposeful sculptures, week ending with a group garden display!

August 19-23, 2013

Garden Sculpture!

Non-functional art for the garden or home such as faeries and faery homes, toadstools, gnomes, and tiny people made in the style of Chinese bonsai figurines.

Sponsorship Opportunity... Sponsor a week of Ceramics Camp for $1,000 and experience branding beyond marketing! As an ArtAffects sponsor, you will receive a unique opportunity to engage your customer base on a communal level. Our background checked and professionally supported Teaching Artists and Art Gardeners promote your involvement in the community and showcase your business in our Offering.

Visit www.ArtAffectsCoalition.org to register for our Summer Camps! All 2013 Summer Events are FREE and open to the public. All classes hosted at the Brunson Hill Art House, 272 Brunson Ave., Benton Harbor, Mich.

Art in the Dark Fridays 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Saturday Family Class Saturdays Noon-4 p.m. Summer 2013

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Student PROFILE Tryekell Davis: Creatively Engaged with Life By Maria Falce Editor and Board Vice-President

he drum beats a steady rhythm, entwined with the heart, creating a life steeped in creativity and song… The path is clear for 16-year old Tryekell Davis, a junior at Benton Harbor High School; he is an artist. Playing baritone in the school band as well as being an avid drummer creating and performing his own work, Tryekell plans to continue his study of music in college, beginning his career as a music director and producer. But music is not his only passion. Tryekell has been hanging out at the Brunson Hill Art House since he was 12. 2009: He created an entire set of batik tie-dye t-shirts, one for each member of his family. 2010 to 2011: Tryekell delved into drawing and ceramics and developed a love of clay. “I like to make something I am using” he says. His favorite, bowls, and he has made some beauties. 2012: A scholarship to Water Street Glassworks sent Tryekell into the heat to play with molten glass. 2013: Tryekell finds himself back at the Art House Tryekell feels that art will always play a big role in his life. “It motivates you to do more…” he feels and is the foundation for “creative conversations with like-minded people.” “Tryekell has always had a strong entrepreneurial spirit,” says Laura Sandmann, Teaching Artist and Executive Director of Art Affects. From performance and musical groups, busking at the Art Hop with his cousin to making snack bags to sell to area kids. He always finds creative ways to connect and thrive. Whether it’s music, ceramics or tie-dye, you can trust that Tryekell Davis will be engaging life creatively. Tryekell gets ready to drop one of his batiks into the boiling pot.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

PROCESS MAKES

James and Sandra discuss tying techniques and Soﬁa’s happiness while dying a mandala is obvious. Photos by Maria Falce By Maria Falce Editor and Board Vice-President

mmm…we’ll need soda ash, dental ﬂoss, a swath of natural fabric and dyes… No, MacGyver is not in the house but Tad and Laura of Art Affects and Brunson Hill Art House are and they are gearing up to paint the world beautiful!

“There’s nothing like a Tad-star,” says Laura Sandmann, executive director and Teaching Artist of Art Affects as Tad Eastman’s mandala tie-dyes are called. The lines are crisp, colors clear; each one unique like a flower in a meadow. I asked James Kehrer of A Honu Tie Dye “what is the key to a good tie dye?”

with a vision and experience who has the desire to share his/her gift.” Tad fits that bill, he has been tying and teaching for 35 years, perfecting his technique. It takes practice! Tying is not for the faint of heart or those who prize flawless and delicate hands. The dental floss must be pulled tightly to show crisp lines and can cut your fingers. Laura suggests wearing a glove to protect your hands as you work. Tying with friends helps, too! Get inspiration from nature! Allow the beauty around you to inform your folds, ties and color choices to add depth and soul to your creations. Visit ArtAffectscoalition.org/artists-resources for more information, videos and tips!

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Teaching ARTISTS Creatrix Hope: Empowering Your Inner Artist

My goal when facilitating an artistic experience with someone is to illuminate their natural creative expression, no matter the Medium. My Artistic Philosophy is Everyone is an Artist, and I hope to inspire them to realize it/know it. There is an Art to everything, and I love to inspire that thought in others. Hope, When did you ﬁrst know you were an artist? Just recently, in the last year, I am new to finding my own artistic talents. I was inspired to find it by the creator of ArtAffects Laura Sandmann. It has opened a world of possibility to me because it is a working example of how artistic people of all kinds can come together, making each of their skills accessible to the others. My favorite Medium is Collage/Decoupage, and a close second is Sculpture/Ceramics, and I am still exploring. My favorite Artist in Collage is Rita Boley Bolaffo, her work inspires me to reach for my dreams, I love her work. Designing my own class is a goal of mine that I have recently come to recognize as my Life’s Purpose. It seems as if my whole life has lead up to this! I envision a creative ‘Self-Empowerment’ class, where I help facilitate free flowing expression of ones innate ability to create. The goal would be to inspire the Artist to SEE the “Work of Art” that is their life, in every aspect of their lives.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

Jasmine Robinson: Inspiring Love My artistic teaching philosophy is based on fostering an open and free environment that is conducive to exploration and discovery. When someone is free from expectations, limits, and preconceived ideas about what art means, creation is able to flow organically. I have always expressed myself artistically through various mediums. I have been performing on stage since I was 6. I live to find new ways to artistically express myself and stretch the limitations I have placed on myself. My favorite mediums are painting, collage/scrap booking, and clay/pottery. I love to work with texture. Summer 2013

My favorite artists are: Georgia Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Keeffe, Salvador Dali, Frida Kahlo and Betye Saar. I envision facilitating a class where real transformation can be made. It would be a place where one could work through what are traditionally thought of as negative feelings like pain, despair and sadness and transform them into a beautiful works of art. It has been in these dark places where the greatest light is found. I would love to have the option of different mediums such as collage, paint, or sculpture where the individual is free to use what speaks to them. Being able to give these emotions a voice and then channeling the energy into art gives the artist the power to change their life.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Art AND Gardening

What in the world is an Art Gardener? To us at ArtAffects, it is a person who naturally emulates three different and strong personality types: 1/3 Gardener, 1/3 Artist, and 1/3 Teacher (surprise!). The Teacher comes in with the desire to share your passions with others. A teaching Art Gardener will be skillful at bringing people into artistic garden environments. Their passion is contagious and they bring people into these communal spaces under the radar, so to speak, before they realize what a different place an Art Garden is. An Art Garden is a type of outdoor art room, a space where the community gathers to learn about sculpture, urban gardening, and street art. It is an abandoned lot turned neighborhood playground, bonding space, and learning center. It is a place where the Art Gardeners unique combination skill set unleashes an amazing synergistic relationship between the Teacher, the Artist, and the Gardener they hold inside. The exchange in the garden and soul leaves all parts more satisfied then if they function independently. If this sounds like you, or you have a space you would like an Art Gardener to tend, please contact us on our website: www. ArtAffectsCoalition.org

June in the community garden at Jefferson and Brunson.

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

A Honu Tie Dye, a smally family owned and operated company born of love.

Contact Info: James Kehrer Amy Kehrer

269.325.7212 Coloma, MI. 49038 Find us @

ArtAffectsCoaltion.org!

Love of music, art, earth, family and friends brings us to Festivals and busy with direct sales and custom jobs. Our re-purposed

clothing and earth friendly processes give our customers the same satisfaction wearing our clothes as we have creating them. Fun Fact: Honu is the Hawaiian word for

turtle, a design found often in our clothing.

! n o i t u l o v E R

The Inspired Evolution By Maria Falce Inspired collaborations create cohesive and joyful communities. When diverse artists come together they create a shared field with limitless potential…

n o i n o t i t u l o v E R ol By Bob Fowler

An event unlike any other is going to be born at this summer’s Art Hop in the Benton Harbor Arts District (June 21st from 5-9pm). ArtAffects’ R Evolution is an experiment in Artistic Synergy. We are going to evoke a living vortex of creativity. Imagine a circle of easels, canvas, paint and brushes - artists young and old gathered around working on a communal painting inspired by the tribal beat and kinetic energy of drummers, musicians and dancers concentrically arranged, in motion, all pouring energy to the canvas at the center of the spiral. Now, embrace that process with an olde world bazaar of local artists, healers and merchants and you have the total R Evolution experience.

Bob Fowler

Calling all Artists, Dancers, Drummers/Musicians, Healers and Vendors!!!! Be part of this totally unique creative experience. It may just be the coolest event of the summer, possibly even your life!

The brainchild of Bob Fowler, R Evolution, is an experiment in artistic synergy as well as energetic connection. As a Dreambuilder Coach, Reiki Master, martial artist, massage therapist and everyone’s favorite personal counselor…Bob knows about energy…interconnection. He has been playing with it his whole life. The idea, conceived in a healing session, gestated in his heart for many years, waiting for the right place, time and group to birth his idea into fruition. The creation of ArtAffects was the spark that rekindled the flame. The time had come! Join in the fun!

ArtAffectscoalition.org for more information! 22

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013

ArtAďŹ&#x20AC;ects Coalition

! n n!

4 Concentric Circles

Painting Dance/Drum/Music Healing Arts Vendors Friday June 21st, 2013 5pm-9pm

Arts District Benton Harbor, MI

Calling Vendors and

Artists, Musicians, and Healers Visit R Evolution on ArtAďŹ&#x20AC;ectsCoalition.org

Artist SPOTLIGHT

Self Portrait, Tad Eastman. 22” x 22”, Procion Dye and Fabric Paint on cotton. 1995

Tad Eastman

Teaching Artist and Tie-Dye guru Tad has been creating custom clothing for color-lovers since he was 16 years old. After following the Grateful Dead for 15 years, he settled in SW Michigan and started his own tie-dye business, Laughing Dragon Dyes. After building a successful business, he moved away from directly generating Art to teaching his skills to others. He now lives in the Brunson Hill Art House with his wife and two daughters teaching his skills to the community. Contact: TadEastman@ArtAffectsCoalition.org 24

Offering: ArtAffects Coalition

Summer 2013