November 26th, 2011
 Rehoboth Beach
“A man who works with his hands is a laborer; a man who work with his hand and his mind is a craftsman; but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist.” st. thomas aquina
The Delmarva Peninsula surprised us with a gorgeous Black Friday. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love to spend it in Delaware, my home. Black Friday brought lots of shoppers to the tax free shopping we offer in the State.
Rehoboth was very crowded. The weather? 68 degrees!! No parking to be found. My car was heading south on Rt. 1 to the town of Bethany Beach and then heading west for a few miles to start my own little tour of the 17th Annual Southeastern Artists Studio Tour.
Following are the 3 artists that I visited on Friday; all very different and all pursuing their passion.
Keith Toms is a Builder Blacksmith, originally from England, he makes Sussex County his home. He is located at 35160 Roxana Rd., Frankford, DE. Tel. 302-519-3731 E-mail? keithtoms@verizon.net.
Even though the address says Frankford, I really call that area Roxana. To get to it from Rt. 26 in Millville, take Rt. 17 to Roxana, go through the traffic light which is the junction of Rt. 17 and Rt. 20 and you will find his studio about 100 yards on the right. It is a garage next to a white house.
“The ability to directly shape metal has held my fascination since 1993, using the energy and rhythm of hammer and anvil, hot metal is transformed into subtle forms and curves that are inspired by both nature and industry. The techniques I use are much the same as they were hundreds of years ago, with a few modern twists that allow more contemporary design.”
 
Sunflowers are a specialty of his. You can see it in a lot of his work. He really can build anything. You can go through his portfolio and see some of his work.
 
I was looking at a piece to hang pots. It was huge. You would need a large kitchen. Keith told me that some of the bigger pieces do not take as long as the smaller ones. The smaller ones can take up to 50 hours for just one piece.
 
Keith is at his studio practically every afternoon. You can call him or e-mail him at keithtoms@verizon.net.
To be able to transform metal into such art was beautiful to see.
The next artist on my list was Tom Frey. He is a woodturner located at 30424 Marina Rd., Dagsboro, DE 19939. Tel. 302-732-6172. E-mail? tefpwf62@gmail.com. His studio hours are by appointment.
It is a little tricky to get there but just follow these directions and you will find it. Go west on Rt. 26. This becomes Rt. 26/20 in Dagsboro. Turn right at the stoplight to go into Dagsboro. Go through the stoplight in the center of the town (now Rt. 20) and turn right onto Piney Neck Rd. Go approx. 3 miles, take a right on Marina Rd. and his house is 3rd on the right. Got it?
“Tom has pursued a specialty of thin-walled, natural edge turnings using mostly local woods that are stressed by nature. A soft matte finish has become a second hallmark of Tom’s work. In 2009, Tom achieved Master designation in the Delaware By Hand organization.”
We were received with big smiles from Tom and Pat, his wife. She had hot cider, cheese balls, made by her and crackers. Delicious. I was hoping my kids would not eat the whole thing.
I am in awe of his work. It is so delicate using the most unique pieces of wood. He told me he has plenty of wood to work with. He does get mesquite from a friend and supplier in Texas. Mesquite is now being used for hardwood flooring.
His minis were so cute and he told me they were so easy to make. So, here he is at work.
His works of art are, definitely, conversation pieces. They are perfect for the person that has it all. Here are some more pictures.
     
Thanks Pat and Tom. You were so gracious receiving us all into your home.
The next artist is a self made painter; Damon Pla. If you were in Rehoboth Beach for the Independent Film Festival you probably saw his work. Every year artists submit their work, hoping to be chosen for what best describes the theme of the Festival. He won!!
I stopped by his Damon Pla Fine Arts Studio located at 119 South Newport Way, Dagsboro, DE 19939. From Rt. 1 go west on Rt. 26, turn right onto White’s Neck Rd. (Millville Pet Shop on corner). Travel 1.6 miles. Turn slight right into Bethany Forest. Take 1st left onto South Newport Way. House is at the end of the street facing you.
“Through ambience, composition, movement and light, creating art will always be an instrument for me to interpret my perception of our surroundings. To quietly converse with the viewer through my work, provoking thought and meditation, is my passion.”
His studio was comfortably crowded, people asking him questions. I met his Mom, who was visiting from Ft. Lauderdale. Damon is originally from Florida; home is here now. His wife was there to help out, as well.
His paintings were amazing capturing the essence of his subjects. You can contact Damon by calling him at 302-541-6057 (studio), 302-841-3790 (cell), or visit his website, www.DamonPla.com. Just like everyone else, he is on Facebook; facebook.com/damonpla.
He offers original paintings, limited editions, commissions, trompe l’oeil/murals.
It was great meeting you and your family, Damon.
Some were hungry, so, to finish a really nice day off to Nicola Pizza on Rehoboth Avenue we went. I told you at the beginning that Rehoboth Beach was so crowded; like any summer day. Finally, we found parking.
As usual, Nicola Pizza, hit the spot.
A walk through the Boardwalk and looking out to sea in such a clear and warm day, we were able to see Cape May, New Jersey.
Note: Some of the Artists will be open on Sunday November 27th from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Please check www.artstudiotour.com.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
November 25th, 2011
I meant to write this post last night but after cooking, eating and cleaning…oh well, here it goes today.
Lots of happenings at this time of the year as the Beaches start the Holiday Season. Late last night all the outlets opened….no way, I really did not need anything that badly. But, if you are visiting, why not take advantage of the tax free shopping the State of Delaware offers?
In Rehoboth Beach
Friday, 11/25 – Just Comfort Shoes located at 18756 Coastal Highway opened at 6:00 a.m. They are near the outlets on Rt. 1! Sales and service with a smile with plenty of sales for this shopping season. This year new lines like Alegria, Cushe, Sannibel by Dansko and Earthies…shopping in comfort. The also have a downtown Rehoboth store located at 237 Rehoboth Ave. Website? www.justcomfortshoes.com.
Friday, 11/25 – Tree Lighting ceremony in Rehoboth Beach at the Bandstand. The actual lighting will be at 7 p.m., but if you come between 6 and 7 p.m., there will be plenty of singing. This year’s tree was donated by a local resident. It is beautiful. More info? www.downtownrehoboth.com.
Friday, 11/25 and Saturday, 11/26 – Joss II located at 19470 Coastal Highway (Rt.1) in the Shops at Camelot Shopping Center, will be hosting an Open House. There will be door prizes, gift wrapping….and plenty of Holiday Cheer from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. On Friday WGMD will live Broadcast from 2 – 4 p.m. Tel. 302-227-8373. You can also find Joss II on Facebook.
Friday, 11/25 – Opening of Clear space Theatre Company’s production of Scrooge from Friday the 25th until December 11th. The Threatre is located at 20 Baltimore Ave. Tickets for adults, $25, for seniors $20, for students $15 and for children $5. You can purchase tickets online at www.clearspacetheatre.org, by phone 302-227-2270 or in person at the Box Office on 20 Baltimore St.
Ocean View (west of Bethany Beach)
Friday, 11/25 and Saturday, 11/26 – Black Friday Event at White Orchid Interiors located at 83 Atlantic Ave., Ocean View, DE 19970. Website? www.whitehorchid@verizon.net.
White Orchid is inviting you to stop by through the week-end and enjoy complimentary refreshments while you shop.
White Orchid is a beautiful shop full of home accessories and accents. Leslie is the proprietor and offers in home consultations including, custom window treatments and bedding, space planning, paint selection and much more.
November 26th marks the second annual Small Business Saturday, a day to support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. American Express is giving a $25 statement credit offer for Cardmembers when they register their Card and spend $25 or more on Small Business Saturday at any qualifying small business that accepts the American Express Card. Register your American Express and then use your registered card on Nov. 26th at a participating small business. You can register www.americanexpress.com.
Southeastern Delaware – the towns of Bethany Beach, Ocean View, Roxana, Dagsboro, Frankford
Friday, 11/25 and Saturday, 11/26 is the 17th Annual Southeastern Delaware Artists Studio Tour. It is a free, self-guided tour of the studios of 16 of Southeastern Delaware’s most talented artists and artisans, right here in Sussex County. 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Please visit www.artstudiotour.com where you will be able to see and get directions to all the studios.
Water Media, Watercolor, oil and mural, painter, photographer, pen and ink, woodturner, ceramics and jewelry, glass artist, blacksmith are a few of the artists that will open on Friday and Saturday. Not all of them will be opened on Saturday but you will be able to see from the map who these are.
Donation tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25 – Arts in the Hat Raffle – All proceeds from the raffle, will benefit art programs throughout the local community.
On facebook find them at www.facebook.com/sedasttour.
Have a great week-end!!
November 23rd, 2011
If there is a town that can bring the nostalgia of what the holidays should be is the historic town of Berlin, Maryland. It is located west of Ocean City, Maryland, just by a few miles. From Rehoboth Beach, it is a longer drive but only about 40 minutes, if that. It is worth it and at this time of the year Berlin gets all decked out for the holidays, their windows are decorated and on Friday November 25th at 5:30 p.m. the Holiday Season will kick off with the lighting of the Christmas tree in front of of the Atlantic Hotel right on Main Street.
Berlin dates from the 1790s; historically charming with lots of shops and restaurants. Their Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 1st at 7 p.m. is one not to be missed. Out of a Norman Rockwell painting, it is.
The setting of Berlin is great but the people that reside, work and own businesses are making sure that this town offers its visitors a treat; wanting them to keep coming back again and again.
One of those shops that is celebrating the Season is TaDa Home. It opened this year, but it does have a sister store; TaDa, that has been around for years. If you are visiting Berlin on the Fridays in December; the 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd stop by because you will be able to enjoy home-made baked goods while you shop for one of a kind Christmas decor and gift items.
TaDa Home is located at 27 N. Main Street, Berlin, Maryland. Tel. 410-641-4430. Website? http://www.blairelizabeth.com.
When Patty Falck first opened TaDa, the store had her signature all over and it still does; simple and elegant. TaDa Home keeps constantly evolving, though. The combined artistic talents of the Falck family is now shining through. I love it; the two girls, the father and the mother. Yes, TaDa Home is a must stop shop in Berlin, Maryland.
The shop is beautifully appointed. Steve and Brooke have combed the area looking for special pieces; Patty then puts then her artistic touches.
Rugs, paintings by Patty, pillows, coastal touches, epicurian books and delights are the many surprises you will find at TaDa.
 
It is easy shopping for the holidays, as well. And, no, Tada is not opening at 12:01 a.m. on Friday. The store hours will be Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.
These pictures reflect what a beautiful store it is. Something will have to catch your interest, I am sure.
     
If you happen to see the November issue of Coastal Style Magazine, www.coastalstylemag.com. you will get to meet the Falck family in depth. A beautiful article on this family that for some years has been facing one of those curves that life throws at you.
TaDa supports The Stephen Falck Foundation for MSA Research. Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is currently without treament and cure. It is their hope that by funding research for this illness, they may help those currently suffering, and provide hope in the future for a cure.
Please note that portions of every sale from TaDa Home are donated to MSA. Websites to learn more about what they are going through? www.wemove.org/msa. and www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/multiple_system_atrophy.
Happy Thanksgiving!!…talk to you later….TaDa is next….
November 14th, 2011
Last March I was walking up and down Atlantic Avenue when a store caught my eye. I had not seen it before so I decided to stop and that’s how I met Michele Ramirez, the proprietor of Varietai. You will find Varietai at 812 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-455-2767. Website? www.varietai.com. Find Varietai Delray on Facebook.
Since I started my blog, I have, definitely, met a lot of people. Most of them have been so charming and friendly. But, others, stand out. Michele is one of them. We just hit it off. A friendship is developing; so nice to see her again.
It is almost a year since she opened Varietai. She has a following. But, Michele is not new to this business. Years ago she had a store in Delray called Durango’s Attic. You might have even met her then.
If you have not stop by Varietai, please do so. The shop is full of beautiful items; some are fine consignments. Others, are quirky; many have their own sophistication.
       
I guess is that time of the year to jazz the home. Varietai is full of color, exactly what you would have expected in South Florida.
Michele is also an artist. She loves to paint. Check the floor of the store. All painted by her. The theme? The Japanese Koi.
Ask any questions you want. Michele has an eye for color and design and pays great attention to details. Her shop really is one of those must stop shops in Delray.
Varietai offers jewelry from Bali; wonderful colors and very unique, as well.
 
Deliveries? On week-ends…talk to you later…By the way, Michele; my friend loved his housewarming gift. Thanks for your help!!
November 12th, 2011
One of the attractions in Delray Beach on a Saturday mornings is the Delray Beach GreenMarket. This GreenMarket is part of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). It is held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. The location is right in the heart of this Village by the Sea, just south of Atlantic Ave. on SE 4th Ave.
The Manager is Lori Nolan and she can be contacted at 561-276-7511 if you have any questions.
   
It is so nice to stroll through the vendors. Their produce was amazing; the colors and sizes were unreal. Food and music are part of it all.
 
I had never seen eggplants as big as these ones. They said they were Sicilian Eggplants; mild and creamy to sweet and bitter.
On a sunny day like today with low humidity it was the perfect way to start the day.
This little dog was there enjoying herself, just like everyone else.
The Delray Art League’s purpose is “to advance the public interest in the visual arts and to promote the development of excellence in visual arts in the South Palm Beach area”. The Delray Art League is the sponsor of Artists in the Park. Just look for the white tents right on Veteran’s Park by the Intracoastal.
It is the longest running outdoor fine art show in South Florida. Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
The Art League’s website is www.delrayartleague.org. On Facebook you can find both, Artists in the Park and Delray Art League.
Talk to you later…have a good one!!
November 11th, 2011
I kept looking for information on needlepoint; what I should have been looking for was “needlework”, which is the generalized term when one does not know what she or he is talking about. Needlepoint refers to a particular set of stitching techniques worked upon stiff openwork canvases. What I did not know was that there are different types of canvases; Mono, Penelope, Interlock, Rug and Plastic.
I have friends whose hobbies include needlework. I see them working so hard but then just a little patch is accomplished. It seems like it takes a long time to finish a “work of art”. I also notice that they seem to be so relaxed. Some take it to the beach; others work on it while they are watching t.v., or when they are traveling.
A gift given by someone that has spent so much time is really cherished. One time my husband received a belt made specially for him and to this day he still loves it.
So, when I saw the new stitching company on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach I decided to stop. I am stopping for all those friends that love this hobby. Or, for the ones that are visiting and would like to take something home. Or, even for the ones like me that might want to try something new and outside the comfort zone.
Stitches by the Sea, Inc. is located at 710 East Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-865-5775 Fax: 561-865-5959 e-mail: judi@stitchesbythesea.us. Judi Alweil is the proprietor of this shop.
I think you will feel like you have hit the jackpot when entering Stitches by the Sea. The first thing you will notice is how friendly Judi is. Judi is a consummate professional. She has been in the business for so many years in New York. She is now making South Florida her home. Even though she opened this new shop just a few weeks ago, she still has a wholesale business in New York, called Judi & Co. You can visit www.judiandco.com. This is a needlepoint and design company.
Judi and I talked and talked. I told her that I would not be offended in the least if she wanted to correct me when my post was published. Or, if she wanted to add something to what I said.
I noticed all the canvases she has throughout the stores. Some are from her own company, Judi & Co. and others are by different artists and designers.
Canvases may be stitch-painted, meaning each thread intersection is painted in such a way that the stitcher has no doubt about what color is meant to be used at that “intersection”.
 
Wool, silk, cotton or combinations like wool-silk blends are the threads used for stitching. Other fabrics can also be used like metallic cords, metallic braids, ribbons and raffia. Stitches by the Sea has an extensive collection of all of them. Since Judi has been in the business for such a long time, she has her contacts and she can get anything you might need, that is not at the store, in a short period of time.
I noticed the Long Legged Lady; stitched separately and then put together. She was so cute.
She also has a collection of needlepoint bags. She can give you the guidance you might need; start to finish.
There are also bags that can be custom designed for you. After you finish you needlepoint the bag can be made just for you, as well.
Classes will be held in December and January. Please call Judi at 561-865-5775 for more info.
In one of those classes you will be able to knit a bag like this one (sort of), which is made with raffia.
Oh, I almost forgot….Judi told me that her Judi & Co. was featured in Oprah and also on Terry Trucco’s NY Times column. Being acknowledged in such a way was great… a boost to her business.
Judi has also written a book called Ribbon Knits, Designs to Knit and Crochet. You can get it through her wholesale company or on Amazon.
Judi mentioned that her customers are happy and satisfied with her company. That the “business” is a friendly business and they all pretty much know each other. Refreshing, don’t you think?
If you are in Delray, just stop by…the shop is on Atlantic Ave. near the Intracoastal….besides Judi you might also meet Dick, her husband, that at times is there to help. The shop is closed Sundays and Mondays, otherwise, Tuesdays through Saturdays they are there from 10:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Have a good one!!…talk to you later…you know I will.
November 9th, 2011
Among the shops that line up Main Street in the historic town of Berlin, Maryland you will find a new shop called NEST. This shop is only new to the Main Street area but NEST has now been in business for some time. Change of location but same concept.
NEST is located at 11 South Main St., Berlin, Maryland, 21811. The location is right across the street from the new Chamber of Commerce. Tel. 410-629-1030. E-mail nest.berlin@gmail.com. It opens Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 Noon until 4 p.m.
Just like all the other shopkeepers that abound in Berlin, Dee, welcomes you with a nice smile. Throughout the shop you will find niches of vintage treasures, local art, housewares, home accents, and decorative items.
There is a lot to take in, so make sure you take your time in strolling through her shop. Dee is more than willing to inform you where each piece has come from in detail, whether it is an antique or a work of art.
NEST is a definitely an eclectic store; you can find surprises in every corner.
 
Dee is also known for her artistic talents. I saw that in the store already some of her Old World Santas have made an appearance. These santas are handsculpted by Dee. She uses dry clay; the faces are painted in acrylic. They are collectibles and very much sought after. Vintage fabrics are utilized for their clothing, as well. Call the store for more information or if you would like to place an order.
 
Dee is a seamstress, as well. She makes colorful aprons with contrasting fabrics that are really cute. Custom bags are on display at NEST, as well. They have great fabric color combinations and textures; the patterns and colors changing with the seasons.
As I was chatting away, earrings caught my eye. Vey cute and made by Lex.
This is the perfect time of the year to stroll through Berlin. There is something about it….yes, it is pretty!!
Have a great day!!
October 31st, 2011
“Glassblowing is a glassforming technique that involves inflating molten glass into a bubble, or parison, with the aid of a blow pipe, or blow tube.” It was invented by the Phoenicians at approximately 50 BC. A person who blows glass is called a glassblower, glassmith, or gaffer.
I spent so many years going to Berlin that it seemed like a second home to me. Since those days the town has so many more stores and an artist village has emerged. Just like in Rehoboth, Bethany and Lewes, the shopkeepers of Historic downtown Berlin are friendly and a joy to talk to.
I cannot draw, paint, or sculpt; I am in awe of anyone that can express him or herself in such a way. There must be sensitivity that I do not pocess.
So, there I was in front of Jeffrey Auxer Designs, located at 19 Jefferson St., Berlin, MD 21811. Tel. 443-513-4210. Website? www.jeffreyauxer.com.
The building was pretty neat. It looked like it had been a garage at some point, but I am not sure. The Gallery was not very big; just perfect. As you come in be prepared for a burst of color. You will smile; you can’t help it.
Slowly take it all in. Check the pieces because each has been individually hand blown. A work of art by Jeff, who I found to be reserved but friendly. I also met Adam the first time I visited.
Jeff is a local guy, having graduated from Stephen Decatur, Berlin, Maryland, and then attended Salisbury University. In business for more than several years.
In his studio you will find home decor, lighting, vessel sinks, hanging platters, centerpiece bowls, vases, jewelry and many other items for gifts, or for your own personal indulgence.
 Sink 
I asked Jeff what pieces he liked the most. He mentioned the lamps. They truly are works of art and very unique.
 
In the middle of the Gallery there was a case with golf putters. He can customize them with pretty much any sport’s team. They are $125. You would have to call him to the above telephone number and tell him if you are right or left handed and tell him what logo you would like.
Jeff is also making jewelry. Loved the ring holders.
On Friday, November 2nd, his Studio will participate in the 2nd Friday Art Stroll. This is an event that takes place the 2nd Friday of every month from 5-8 p.m. Shops and galleries in Historic Berlin open late to give the visitors a time to get to know them better.
From November 12th until December 17th – Saturdays, there will be a hand blown glass ornament making class. $15/ornament. Ages 4 to……Just call the Studio at 443-513-4210 to reserve your spot.
Glass Blowing Classes are held every other week-end, as well. Just call the number above mentioned for class times and pricing.
A Party Experience – Bring your party to the Studio. Make a paperweight for $75. All info. regarding this unique experience can be found by visiting www.jeffreyauxer.com.
So, to my friends in Rehoboth and Lewes I just want to let you know that it only takes about 45 minutes or so to get to Berlin. Not a bad drive.
From Ocean City is just 10 or 15 minutes and from Salisbury, it only takes about 25 minutes.
I really enjoyed it…..more to come from Berlin…as I was strolling through the town…
Note: Some info. for this post was taken from Wikipedia.
 
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