Man on Flying Carpet, original children's book illustration by Raul Colon

Chemers Gallery's blog has gotten a virtual face-lift! As of Monday, April 6, it has moved from its old site on Blogspot to...OUR WEBSITE for a more streamlined, cohesive web presence. We're loving our new look and hope you will, too!

Our old blog posts will remain live on Blogspot, but our links may not work due to our new format. Feel free to browse all the way back to 2007 to revisit your favorite articles or learn more about the goings-on around here over the years. Just don't forget to change your bookmarks to our new blog site, now at www.chemersgallery.com/blog!

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Congratulations to the participating artists of Viewpoints: Orange County All Media 2015! There were many stand-out entries, and our juror, plein-air painter Greg LaRock. worked hard to make selections for a diverse and considered exhibit. 




 

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Calling all artists! Get those creative juices flowing because we're looking for entries to the 8th annual juried exhibition of outdoor scenes of Orange County, presented by Chemers Gallery and Tustin Area Council for Fine Art (TACFA)! We need your unique interpretations of Newport Beach, Crystal Cove, downtown Orange, Irvine Park and more! The show is open to all media including oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, photography, glass, mixed media, encaustic, printmaking, sewing, beading, etc. The more innovative, the better. The best part is...there are cash prizes!

Our show has been evolving year by year and we're sure this will be our best exhibit yet. One major change this year is the elimination of the "amateur" and "professional" categories. All are welcome to enter regardless of experience level - entries will all be juried to the same level. Another major change is the addition of award categories. All entries will fit into either "Oil and Acrylic" or "All Other Media,"giving you more chances to win an award!

Just like last year, all entries will be pre-juried online at OnlineJuriedShows.com - you can find the prospectus and links to enter HERE.

We are honored to announce that Greg LaRock, award-winning plein air oil painter, will be this year's juror.

Award-winning art from Dorothy Cavanagh, Lore Hold, Sherry Marger and Linda Rogers from the 2014 show

Important Dates & Deadlines:
March 4, 2015: Deadline to submit your entry form and .jpg photo to OnlineJuriedShows.com. Click HERE for prospectus and links to enter. (For help using OnlineJuriedShows.com click here.)
March 11, 2015: Notification of acceptance by email
April 6 - 10: Hand-delivery of accepted work to Chemers Gallery between 10am - 5pm. Shipped entries are not accepted.
April 18, 2015: Exhibition opens to public, Artists' Reception 5:30 - 8:00pm
May 2, 2015: Exhibit closes
May 4, 2015: Pick up work at Chemers Gallery between 10am - 5pm

Cash Awards:
$600 Grand Prize

Oil & Acrylic
$450 First Place
$300 Second Place
$200 Third Place

All Other Media (including watercolor, pastel, glass, photography, mixed media, etc)
$450 First Place
$300 Second Place
$200 Third Place

Artwork Specifications:
Entry must be an outdoor scene from anywhere in Orange County, California. If not easily recognizable as an Orange County scene, a source photo may be required. Work must be created during the year since the last exhibition (May 2014).

All 2-D artworks such as, but not limited to, painting, drawing, mixed media, printmaking and photography will be considered. The maximum allowed size is 24" x 36" not including the frame. Photographs must be printed on photo or fine art paper - they may not be printed on canvas or mounted to panels. Works must be framed to Chemers Gallery specifications (see framing requirements below), properly wired and ready to hang. The juror reserves the right to disqualify any work not suitably presented or that varies from the submitted image. All works must be for sale.

Sales commission: 50% artist 50% Chemers Gallery.

Framing Requirements:
Chemers Gallery will be happy to assist in framing your work. If you choose to frame it yourself, please bring your frame for approval prior to delivery. Oils, acrylics & mixed media can be unframed if gallery wrapped edges are painted, but other two-dimensional work must be framed. No photography on canvas. All 2D work must be properly & securely wired and ready to hang. Simple frames are preferred and must be either black or dark wood. Mats: neutral white, acid free (like Bainbridge 8655), acid-free colored filets ok, and either double 4-ply or single 6 or 8-ply mats. No non-glare glass. Space and weight limits apply to non two-dimensional work, see Karen Raab at Chemers Gallery.

Examples of black (left) and dark wood (right) frames

Examples of gallery wrapped canvases

Entry Procedure:
Non-refundable entry fee is $35 for one or two entries, payable when you submit to OnlineJuriedShows.com.

PLEASE NOTE: When filling out your information while entering the show at OnlineJuriedShows.com, please be sure all information is correct - spelling, title, pricing of your artwork. All information is input by the Artist and is used by Chemers Gallery for reference, printed materials and online postings.

Diptychs and triptychs are considered one work. Works are juried by digital image only.

For help using OnlineJuriedShows.com please refer to the Help page and the How OJS Works page. Likewise you can call 949-287-8645 or email [email protected].

Entry Image Guidlines:
Works will be juried by digital image only. Images must be sized to 1920 pixels on the longest side and at a resolution of 72 dpi. No mat, frame, or extraneous material should appear other than your artwork.

Save the painting with a new name, as follows: Your last name, first initial, ENTRY REFERENCE (A, B, C, D, or E), and abbreviated painting name. For example: Jane Doe's Entry A is titled New York Sunrise, the name given to the digital image would be: doej_a_nysun.jpg.

Save the image as a high quality jpg.

Images are used for jurying and web and printed materials.

Liability: 
All work will be handled with great care. Neither Chemers Gallery nor TACFA or its representatives will accept responsibility for loss or damage of work. Artists are responsible for safety of work during transit to and from the gallery. Submission by an artist will indicate agreement by the artist to these conditions.

Since 1978, Chemers Gallery has been providing fine art and quality custom framing in Orange County. the gallery hosts several shows each year and continually exhibits the work of exceptions artists, both local and international. Chemers Gallery is located in the Enderle Center, 17300 17th Street, Tustin, 714-731-5432. The gallery is free and open to the public Monday - Friday, 10:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm.

Founded in 1992, the Tustin Area Council for Fine Arts (TACFA) funds and administers programs which expand the arts in the greater Tustin, California area, and enrich the entire community. The Council raises funds through individual and corporate contributions and fundraising events. These funds subsidize elementary students' participation in The Art Masters program, support students' creativity and interest in the arts, and allow TACFA to produce an annual affordable and live production of a classic Broadway musical at a local outdoor venue.

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Updated 10-20-14
 
'Tis the season! The holidays are right around the corner and we can't wait for our first ever...

Over the next few weeks leading up to our Holiday Artisan Faire we will be shinning a spotlight on our Artists & Artisans and sharing a sampling of their delightful goodies with you. Keep checking back, because we'll be updating weekly!


Ready to get your tea on? Tea liqueur that is! Made in Slovakia, Tatratea unites the finest brewed black Assam tea with a number of hand-picked botanical ingredients and fresh fruit in a unique fermentation process. Enjoy as an addition to traditional hot tea or sip chilled neat, on the rocks, or in an endless variety of delicious cocktails if you are in the mood for something festive! Available in six flavors of Coconut, Citrus, Peach, Original, Bohemian and Outlaw and range in proof from 22% to 72%. Rado will be mixing up some knock your socks off libations. Try them all on Dec. 6th!


Monique Selwitz
New & Exclusively at Chemers Gallery!
Silver & gemstone jewelry with an eye catching harmonious flair are the hallmarks of Monique's rings, pendants and earrings. This talented artisan takes inspiration from her creative upbringing surrounded by artists, galleries, goldsmiths and musicians. Originally from Switzerland, Monique possess a keen interest in melding both traditional and new metalsmithing techniques. Breathtaking, each piece is uniquely Moniquely!


Mary Hammond
Mary's delightful handmade fiber designs are the result of dabbling in domestic crafts, sewing clothes, and needlepoint. While working alongside her mother, Mary fabricated her own process by combining knitted fabrics with quilting and collage techniques. Inspired by designs found in nature, Mary sews together various yarns, fibers and silk pieces and then washes them to ensure every creation is soft and wearable. Her elegant creations can be hung on the wall, draped over a  table or bureau, or worn as an eye-catching scarf!


Custom chocolate house, Luisa Chocolatiere, features delicious handmade gourmet chocolates of premium grade and absolute freshness. Luisa learned the art of chocolate making from Monsieur Sender, Master Patissier and Chocolatier in Paris. She received additional training in advanced specialty chocolate courses in Nanterre, west of Paris. Luisa crafts a variety of delectable confections with the highest quality ingredients, assuring rich, silky smooth chocolate goodness in every bite. We are so excited to have Luisa participate in our Holiday Artisan Faire and can't wait for you to meet her and her oh-so-yummy chocolates!

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You don't need to have tons of wallspace to fill your home with eye-catching artwork! From shelves and side tables to windows and bathroom vanities (yes, even your bathroom can be an art mecca!), we love to bring art into every layer and facet of your abode.

If it's translucent vessels and trays in bold colors your looking for, we've got you covered! In the mood to fill your windows with luminous glass? No problem! Chemers Gallery will send Nick Capaci and Leona Hawks to the rescue...

Nick Capaci
Keeping her son on the straight and narrow was motivation for Nick Capaci's mom to become a Cub Scout Den Mother. A self-proclaimed "hooligan of the neighborhood," Nick's first encounter with art was during one of his mom's Cub Scout meetings where he and the other boys had a lesson in potato printing. The wonder of carving into an object to create artwork was addicting and from that point on, Nick was a determined artist. Thank you, Mama Capaci!

Nick's dual focuses of monotype printmaking and glass working go hand-in-hand. Both require an intricate process of layering and building forms to create the final image, whether two- or three-dimensional. Nick's glass trays and vessels are intriguing mix of rigid geometry and organic fluidity, much like the make up of glass itself. Utilizing techniques of fusing, slumping, fire polish and cold working, Nick creates stunning works of art in beautiful jewel-like colors.


 
Contrast the airiness of glass with the solid and earthy form of wood to create a new layer in your home. We welcome local wood turner, Michael Evans, to Chemers Gallery!

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Now introducing...

From an early age, David was known to be "good with his hands." His boy scout troop leaders and school report cards noted his interest and talent for arts and crafts. David's hands were always busy exploring car culture, making jewelry, working with metal, and finally, working with wood. While making an elaborate clock in his high school Shop class, a fellow student told David that he ought to meet her grandfather, renowned woodworker Sam Maloof.

David Wade in the studio

David slowly worked his way into Sam's workshop, doing everything from raking leaves and sweeping out the studio. He was given more and more responsibilities."It was like The Karate Kid," David jokes. He eventually worked his way up to being one of Sam's three assistants, and worked closely with the master craftsman for 20 years.

Although the "Maloof flair" is intrinsically tied up with David's aesthetic, he brings his own artistic voice to sumptuous wood design. His design sense goes back to his love of car culture and ties in with his admiration of mixed media and assemblage.

Clockwise, from left: Side Table; Cutting Board; EnoCraft wine display

A key element in David's design is the combination of wood and metal. The contrast of the warmth of the wood and the coolness of the metal create a comfortable tension. Aircraft and industrial parts are given a new lease on life by being re-purposed as table bases and feet structure. That Maloof influence is never far away, appearing in the fine quality of woodcraft, softly sweeping lines and satiny finishes. David also credits his mother's Old World Dutch roots as an influence on his creativity.

Cocobolo Stool

In addition to hands-on training at the Maloof Studios, David also studied carpentry and woodworking technology and received formal training at Cal State Fullerton, where he studied under Frank E. Cummings. His years of creative collaboration with Mike Johnson, Larry White and Sam Maloof served to instill in him an unparallelled work ethic developed to meet the demands of his mentor. "It was an honor and a privilege to work with Sam," David says. Likening the workshop to an Olympic training center, he and the rest of the team were always kept on their toes. In David's mind, they made some of the world's best furniture.

Meet David and his woodwork on Friday, September 19 from 5-9pm at Chemers Gallery! While you're here, don't forget to stroll Enderle Center to enjoy music of the 50's, 60's and 70's performed by Ricardo Valenzuela & Friends, rounding out the Enderle Center Summer Concert Series.

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Finding the special in the ordinary comes naturally to photographer, Kim Kauffman. She has found her own unique way to translate her dual passions of photography and gardening into stunning imagery that simply begs to be noticed. We are thrilled to introduce Kim's striking artistic vision to Tustin!

A Peaceful Place, photography by Kim Kauffman

Kim continues the tradition of botanical discovery that blossomed in the 1600 and 1700's with artistic documentation of horticultural treasures found by European travelers. Her photographic series, Florilegium, pays homage to those explorers and travelers with its name, meaning "a gathering of flowers." These images evolved along with her growth as a curious artist and an avid gardener. Kim is drawn to her garden for the lessons nature affords if one simply slows down and looks. Flowers, leaves, seed pods and other objects collected from the environment provide her with the building blocks of her cameraless and filmless photographs.

Blue Clematis, photography by Kim Kauffman

How can a photograph be both cameraless and filmless, you might wonder? Kim has developed a special technique that utilizes both a flatbed scanner and digital process that she's been working with since the late 1990's. You might be surprised to consider that cameraless photographic techniques have been around since the birth of photography! Kim has taken inspiration from techniques of the 1830's and 40's developed by William Henry Fox Talbot and Anna Atkins. Anna is considered by some to be the world's first female photographer.

Equipoise, photography by Kim Kauffman

Images from the Florilegium series are composed of multiple layers that present a specimen straight from Kim's imagination. New environments emerge from these layers over time, much like a garden that is continually renewing itself. Each building block of the final image is carefully considered for its texture, color and pattern, and assembled into a photo collage that invites us to appraise with the eyes of a gardener and wonder with the eyes of an explorer.

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August comes around but once a year and we can't wait because August is Bonnie Holmes Skincare Month!! Pamper yourself with Bonnie's spa-quality cremes, cleansers, masques and scrubs. Plus, from now until August 31st, enjoy *20% off her entire line! Now that is luxurious! Can't choose which items to use? We'll give you samples to take home and try out!

Bonnie's gentle skin care line is available exclusively at Chemers Gallery. We even use her products! Karen loves the Original Skin Creme for daytime use, the Super-Rich Creme at night and Perfect Balm all day long.  Jennifer favors a once-weekly exfoliation with Roll-Away Creme followed by a spritz of Skin Refreshment. Shirley prefers Mineral Skin Polish for a quick, deep cleanse and uses the Clay Refining Masque when she wants to slow down and indulge.

Come in and choose your favorites today!

Midmorning: Island in the River

Bonnie doesn't just refresh your body, she also refreshes your spirit with her graceful plein air landscape paintings! Taking inspiration from her travels and the landscape around her home in San Juan Capistrano, Bonnie's oils are softly impressionistic in style.

Join Bonnie and 11 other artists as they demonstrate their artistic talents for you on Friday, August 15th from 5-8pm. Stroll Enderle Center and listen to live classic rock music performed by the Wight Litening Band!

*17% discount if paying by credit card

Lathering Facial Cleanser.....$36
A pH balanced water-soluble cleanser that gently lifts away makeup and impurities from the skin.

Creme Cleanser.....$38
The combination of water, glycerin, wheat germ oil, apple pectin and oils from California oranges makes this the ideal cleanser for drier, more mature skin types.

Skin Refreshment.....$39
Alcohol-free and packed with nutrients in a purified water base, Skin Refreshment restores depleted vitamins and minerals to the skin.

Sheer Skin Moisturizer.....$55
This is the ideal creme for all skin types, but will especially be enjoyed by those with more natural oils in their complexion.

Super-Rich Skin Creme.....$65
Packed with anti-oxidant nutrients to promote moisture and healing, this is creme is suited to drier, more sensitive and mature skin types.

Perfect Balm (previously Eyelid Balm).....$75
The delicate skin surrounding the eyes gets ultimate support and protection from this blend of vitamin e, grape seed extract, aloe vera and evening primrose oil. Previously known as Eyelid Balm, this product has gone from .25oz to 1oz - wow!

Original Skin Creme.....$55
Ideal for skin that's sun damaged or over 30, Original Skin Creme contains an alpha hydroxy acid that increases skin's metabolism leads to younger-looking complexion.

Clay Refining Masque.....$35
Denser than traditional clay masques, the Clay Refining Masque has been specially formulated to dry slower to allow the skin to absorb as many nutrients from the clay as possible.

Mineral Skin Polish.....$45
An ultra-fine pumice exfolient meant for everyday use, Mineral Skin Polish helps to prevent the build up of dead skin cells and leaves your face smelling rosy.

Roll-Away Creme.....$68
A light exfolient that adheres to the dead skin cell buildup on the skin's surface and leaves skin feeling soft and fresh.

Therapeutic Sinus Toner.....$40

Serious Sunblock.....$25
Contains SPF 25 and is perfect for sensitive skin.

Satin Body & Bath Oil.....$49
Almond-scented body oil enhances moisture retention when used regularly while skin is still damp and doesn't leave skin feeling oily.

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Tiger Lily Necklace by Ayala Bar

The new season of Ayala Bar jewelry has finally arrived, and believe us, it does not disappoint! Heading into Fall/Winter (hard to believe when it's still so dang hot!) the new collection dazzles with earthy colors, lush jewel-tones and a smattering of all-new shapes and sizes. As if all that weren't enough, the talented Ms. Bar has created a new style collection made from mostly silver pieces with tiny accents in muted greens, golds and pinks. Can you say LOVE??

Rosario Necklace by Ayala Bar

With a background in set and costume design, is it any wonder that Ayala's creations carry a theatrical flair? Instantly recognizable, we see over and over how people flip for her unique necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Some clients have collected her work for years - we even know a woman who brings her earring collection in for a little show-and-tell from time to time!

Amaranth Earrings by Ayala Bar

As always, these beauties are available for a limited time - only 6 months! You can see a sampling of what's available on our website, and there's more to love in person at #ChemersGallery. Hurry in before they're gone! #AyalaBar

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Summer is in full swing at Chemers Gallery, and that means artist demonstrations and live music around these parts! Mark your calendars for the Enderle Center Summer Concert Series and Artist Demonstrations at Chemers Gallery! Events are happening the third FRIDAY July through September from 5-8pm.

Hound Dog Dave & the Mel Tones - click here to listen!

Wight Litening - click here to listen!

There's nothing like a night spent dancing along to your favorite Classic and Modern Rock hits! Local band Wight Litening originally got together in the '70s and have kept their musical stylings going strong!

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Last week's opening reception for Viewpoints: Orange County All Media 2014 was such a success, and we couldn't have done it without our talented participating artists, wonderful volunteers and YOU, our loyal fans! The house was packed! Special thanks to Tustin Area Council for Fine Arts (TACFA) and Enderle Center for helping to sponsor our 7th annual showing of amateur and professional artists.

Viewpoints is up for another week, so hurry in! PLUS we'll be joined by 12 of the participating artists on Saturday, May 10th for special painting demos!

Here's just a taste of what the artist reception & awards ceremony was like:

Ian Montelongo discusses his painting techniques with our friend Jeff

What a crowd!

Steve takes in Lore Hold's prize winning painting

Fellow artists Pamela Panattoni, Max Ollendorff and Jim Wodark meet and mingle

Shelby Montelongo with her trusty camera

Art discussions among artists Ian Montelongo, Lisa Mozzini-McDill, Rita Pacheco and Michael Ward

Honorable Mention winner Kim VanDerHoek with her daughter, Lily, TACFA President Bonnie Atzeff and Chemers Gallery owner Karen Raab

Bonnie Atzeff introduces TACFA

The ever-lovely Rita Chemers

Karen Raab and Rita Chemers with artist Max Ollendorff

Karen Raab and Bonnie Atzeff with 1st Place Professional Winner Michael Ward

Pastel artist & Enderle Center Choice winner Dori Dewberry making new friends with Dick and Marg

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Crystal Cove Morning Stroll, pastel by Dori Dewberry

Chemers Gallery and Tustin Area Council for Fine Art (TACFA) have joined forces to bring you Viewpoints: Orange County All Media 2014,  the 7th annual juried show of professional and amateur artists from around southern California. With the help of 49 artists and one tough juror we present 70 unique viewpoints of Orange County from north to south!

The growth of this exhibition over 7 years has been astounding - we've gotten more entries this year than ever before! Jim Wodark, juror and artist extraordinaire, accepted the challenge to select this year's participating entries from almost 140. (You may remember Jim's 1st Place painting from last year's show...) Everything from architecture to seascapes, abstract to traditional was considered. Featured artworks include oils, watercolor, acrylic, pastel, photography, glass, mixed media and even beadwork! We think you'll agree, this is an exhibit not to be missed.

Come on in to discover a new favorite vista or two and meet the artists at the opening reception Saturday, April 26th from 5:00 - 8:00 pm.  If you can't make it that evening, you can still catch the show through May 10th. 

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At Chemers Gallery, it's all about the art, but we bet you didn't realize that we consider the framing to be a part of that! Custom framing is an art form in itself, and we strive to create just the right tone to fit not only your artwork but your life as well.

We love it when new mouldings are introduced - our imagination runs wild with the sheer scale of possibilities that open up. Over the years we've seen trends come and go and return once again. We've also seen some crazy ideas that just might work. (Remember when we brought badass to the OC??)

Shell
We're always searching for the latest and greatest trends to share with you, and we were shell-shocked with how gorgeous this one is! That's right, a veneer of mother-of-pearl shell creates soft translucence in three finishes and sizes. Available in shimmery white, champagne gold and, well, think of a glistening sea urchin for the third color! You'll just have to see what we're talking about in person. Perfectly elegant for bridal portraits and vanity mirrors and absolutely adorable for baby snaps, these frames are sure to make a splash.

Tortoise Shell
Speaking of shell, faux tortoise shell is back and better than ever! Frames like these haven't been available for about a decade, and we're thrilled to see their return. Elegant and stately, they make us think of manor homes, men's smoking rooms and natural history museums. Thoroughly suited for antique prints including botanical and Audubon style, the depth of color lends a richness to the presentation and elevates your art to the next level.
Rustic
What's old is new again - the "reclaimed" wood look has been reclaimed in today's shapes and colors! Rustic with a modern twist, these beautifully textured mouldings look like they've led former lives as wine barrels, barn siding, and factory flooring. Clean lines fit in with the current feel for simple shape and form. We can see these frames on folk art and seascapes, giving a real period look to the finished product.


Acrylic
We've seen color remaining strong despite a 10 year hiatus, and there are some vibrantly playful frames keeping pace! New on the scene are acrylic mouldings that can be easily personalized in more than 80 colors to exactly fit your style. Choose a glossy or frosted finish in single, double and now, even triple color - patterned frames are also available! Vivid hues provide a real pop of personality.  The possibilities are endless to turn your treasures into a work of art that's as unique as you are.

All natural glycerine soaps, made in America!

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Sunset Surf, oil on canvas by Jim Wodark

Local plein air oil painter, Jim Wodark, is a force to be reckoned with. Long established as a talented artist, the gigantic leaps his work has taken in the last several years have made him "one to watch." Painting everything from majestic stands of eucalyptus, California coastline and the rugged terrain of the High Sierras, Jim's creations stand head and shoulders above the rest.

Inner Courtyard, oil on canvas by Jim Wodark

Born and raised in Colorado, it's not difficult to see where Jim's love of the outdoors came from. In a former life, he worked as a cartoonist while he honed his artistic skills. After moving to California, Jim began experimenting in the plein air style using watercolor and acrylics, and finally oil paints.  Inspiration comes from the beauty of nature and capturing a single, fleeting moment of light, mood and atmosphere. Every new painting is approached as an opportunity to achieve greatness and create a masterpiece.

Chicken Farm, oil on canvas by Jim Wodark

Often compared to Edgar Payne and William Wendt, Jim's work reflects his love of putting paint to canvas. His commitment to an artistic life has taken the form of a daily painting practice, either in his studio or out in the landscape. He is an active member of Oil Painters of America, a Signature Member of the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, and an Artist Member of the California Art Club. Jim travels all over the United States to participate in "paint outs" and exhibitions, garnering awards and recognitions wherever he goes.

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Less than a month into 2014 and it's looking to be a busy year! Already, we have announced two upcoming events and received artwork from new artists and familiar faves. Plus, we're throwing around some ideas for future events and even a Kickstarter project!

However, we're never too busy to share what's new and exciting around here!

Let us introduce you to...

Lost in the Abyss, mixed media on canvas by Denise Duong

Denise Duong is one of our newest additions to Chemers Gallery. Karen found her work on a trip to Park City, Utah, and fell in love. After more than 2 years of phone calls and emails, Denise sent us some paintings and we absolutely flipped! Opening a box of her artwork is like opening a treasure chest - that same heart-in-your-throat feeling can be felt whenever Denise sends us her newest creations. Her whimsical cast of characters are always on the go, always with an air of celebration. Men and women play instruments, ride bicycles and old fashioned motorcycles, enjoy hot air balloon rides and toast one another aboard boats in the sky. Denise will often add her beloved bull terrier to her fanciful creations.

An Amusing Hunt, mixed media on canvas by Denise Duong

Every canvas is rich in color and texture. There's nothing like standing up close and personal to see the details of paint, pen & ink, and layer upon layer of decorative papers collected from the artist's travels. Each painting is constructed like the set of a play in which Denise is playwright, set & costume designer and director. Her players always steal the scenes and make you want to jump up and join them.

True, mixed media on canvas by Denise Duong

Denise not only exhibits around the United States, she also contributes art to causes like Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundations and Planned Parenthood. Trained at the University of Central Oklahoma and the School of the Arts Institute of Chicago, Denise is based out of Oklahoma, but, like her characters, she is a free-spirited nomad at heart! She believes her artwork should be lighthearted and fun, created in celebration of the joys life has to offer.

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Award-winning art from Jim Wodark and Max Ollendorff from the 2013 show

Calling all artists! It's time to get your creative juices flowing because we're looking for entries to the 7th annual juried exhibition of professional and amateur artists featuring local scenes! What started as joint showing of "scenes of Tustin" with the Tustin Art League (TAL) and Chemers Gallery has blossomed into a larger collaborative exhibition of views from all of Orange County with the Tustin Area Council for Fine Art and Chemers Gallery. All entries are now pre-juried online at OnlineJuriedShows.com - you can find the prospectus and links to enter HERE.

So, go ahead and create your own interpretation of Irvine Park, Newport Beach, downtown Orange, even San Juan Capistrano! You don't need to be a professional artist or a member of TACFA to enter - all are welcome to submit. All mediums are acceptable, the more creative the better. Get your paintbrushes, pens, pencils, cameras, sewing needles and printing presses ready for this exciting show!

Award-winning art from Shelby Montelongo, Greg LaRock and Julie Hill from the 2013 show

Important Dates & Deadlines:
March 7, 2014: Deadline to submit your entry form and .jpg photo to OnlineJuriedShows.com. Click HERE for prospectus and links to enter. (For help using OnlineJuriedShows.com click here.)
March 17, 2014: Notification of acceptance by email
April 14 - 19: Hand-delivery of accepted work to Chemers Gallery between 10am - 5pm. Shipped entries are not accepted.
April 26, 2014: Exhibition opens to public, Artists' Reception 5:30 - 8:00pm
May 10, 2014: Exhibit closes
May 12, 2014: Pick up work at Chemers Gallery between 10am - 5pm

Cash Awards:
$600 First Place, Professional
$400 Second Place, Professional
$250 Third Place, Professional

$100 First Place, Amateur
$75 Second Place, Amateur
$50 Third Place, Amateur

Artwork Specifications:
Entry must be an outdoor scene from anywhere in Orange County, California. If not easily recognizable as an Orange County scene, a source photo may be required. Work must be created during the year since the last exhibition (May 2013).

All 2-D artworks such as, but not limited to, painting, drawing, mixed media, printmaking and photography will be considered. The maximum allowed size is 24" x 36" not including the frame. Photographs must be printed on photo or fine art paper - they may not be printed on canvas or mounted to panels. Works must be framed to Chemers Gallery specifications (see framing requirements below), properly wired and ready to hang. The juror reserves the right to disqualify any work not suitably presented or that varies from the submitted image. All works must be for sale.

Sales commission: 50% artist 50% Chemers Gallery.

Framing Requirements:
Chemers Gallery will be happy to assist in framing your work. If you choose to frame it yourself, please bring your frame for approval prior to delivery. Oils, acrylics & mixed media can be unframed if gallery wrapped edges are painted, but other two-dimensional work must be framed. No photography on canvas. All 2D work must be properly & securely wired and ready to hang. Simple frames are preferred and must be either black or dark wood. Mats: neutral white, acid free (like Bainbridge 8655), acid-free colored filets ok, and either double 4-ply or single 6 or 8-ply mats. No non-glare glass. Space and weight limits apply to non two-dimensional work, see Karen Raab at Chemers Gallery.

Examples of black (left) and dark wood (right) frames

Examples of gallery wrapped canvases

Entry Procedure:
Non-refundable entry fee is $35 for one or two entries, payable when you submit to OnlineJuriedShows.com.

PLEASE NOTE: When filling out your information while entering the show at OnlineJuriedShows.com, please be sure all information is correct - spelling, title, pricing of your artwork. All information is input by the Artist and is used by Chemers Gallery for reference, printed materials and online postings.

Diptychs and triptychs are considered one work. Works are juried by digital image only.

For help using OnlineJuriedShows.com please refer to the Help page and the How OJS Works page. Likewise you can call 949-287-8645 or email [email protected].

Entry Image Guidlines:
Works will be juried by digital image only. Images must be sized to 1920 pixels on the longest side and at a resolution of 72 dpi. No mat, frame, or extraneous material should appear other than your artwork.

Save the painting with a new name, as follows: Your last name, first initial, ENTRY REFERENCE (A, B, C, D, or E), and abbreviated painting name. For example: Jane Doe's Entry A is titled New York Sunrise, the name given to the digital image would be: doej_a_nysun.jpg.

Save the image as a high quality jpg.

Images are used for jurying and web and printed materials.

Liability: 
All work will be handled with great care. Neither Chemers Gallery nor TACFA or its representatives will accept responsibility for loss or damage of work. Artists are responsible for safety of work during transit to and from the gallery. Submission by an artist will indicate agreement by the artist to these conditions.

Since 1978, Chemers Gallery has been providing fine art and quality custom framing in Orange County. the gallery hosts several shows each year and continually exhibits the work of exceptions artists, both local and international. Chemers Gallery is located in the Enderle Center, 17300 17th Street, Tustin, 714-731-5432. The gallery is free and open to the public Monday - Friday, 10:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm.

Founded in 1992, the Tustin Area Council for Fine Arts (TACFA) funds and administers programs which expand the arts in the greater Tustin, California area, and enrich the entire community. The Council raises funds through individual and corporate contributions and fundraising events. These funds subsidize elementary students' participation in The Art Masters program, support students' creativity and interest in the arts, and allow TACFA to produce an annual affordable and live production of a classic Broadway musical at a local outdoor venue.

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It's that time again to bring you mouthwatering morsels from some of your favorite jewelry designers, textile, ceramic and mixed media artists! Our 2014 Eye Candy Artisan Faire will be chock full of glorious goodies to feed the eyes, soul and body. Here's just a taste of what will be available - each of our artists will be bringing a trunk full of new treats just for you!

Craving Jewelry
Michelene Berkey
Nature-lovers rejoice! Michelene is traveling back to California all the way from Colorado with her latest "twiggy" treasures just for YOU! (Don't worry, she won't forget to bring her pearls and semi-precious stones!) Sample her newest tidbits that use bees, hearts, flowers, dragonflies and even twigs in her designs. Silver and gold complement her concoctions of pendants, rings, bangles and more.


Elliott Chandler
For the tailored palate, try the exquisitely designed earrings, necklaces and bracelets that are the hallmark of Elliott Chandler. Based in San Francisco, the team creates treats that are timeless and elegant using gemstones and CZs, gold and silver. All jewelry is handcrafted in Italy and the results are oh-so-scrumptious! Sample rose gold with purple & lavender crystals, or delicately enameled drop pendants finished with a flourish of silver.



Joanna Craft
Favored ingredients of mixed metals are shaken (not stirred!) together by Joanna to produce tasty results. Her contemporary designs range from the geometric to the free-form and are just the right portions of silver, copper and brass. Lately, she's been using raw ingredients like unpolished stones as garnish. Create your own custom recipie from Joanna's extensive list of fixings. An old-school crowd pleaser are her special decorative paper in resin pendants and earrings with an eastern aesthetic.


Amy Kekst
Gemstones, crystals, one-of-a-kind vintage elements and chains feature in Amy's titillating tidbits. Her eclectic selection of necklaces, earrings and bracelets change with the seasons - most recently she's served up mixed metal chains and nuggets paired with sparkley stones, and beads. Her selections for this year's show are sure to provide you with a buffet of choices! 


Barbara Lanci
Feast your eyes on Barbara's scrumptious treasures! Her tempting earrings, bold "elevation" cuffs and intricate necklaces are crafted entirely by hand from fine silver, argentium and unique stones. Trained under master jewelers, Barbara continues to challenge herself to come up with new dishes tastier than the last. She'll also create a personalized statement piece just for you!

Soraya Montelongo
Local gal Soraya has an appetite for gemstones, beads and crystals! She labors over her delicious hand-beaded creations, and oh, my! What a luscious array of colors! A mostly self-taught artisan, Soraya's necklaces and bracelets follow intricate designs, some even based on Faberge eggs. Come see her latest concoctions and find just the right one for yourself or a friend!

Ayala Bar
If you're craving something decadently colorful, Ayala is sure to have a treat or two to satisfy! We're still riding high on the treasures she designed last season, and we are in love with Ayala's latest offerings. Her drool-worthy collections bring to mind sun-sparkling Spanish villas this season, with names like Sayulita and Mesa Verde. While Ayala won't be joining us, she will be sending a trunk-full of goodies in yummy fabrics, beads and charms for your enjoyment.

Konplott
Miranda Konstantinidou of Konplott uses crystals, pearls, glass and metal to create jewelry that pops with color and sparkle. This talented designer whips up her creations in Germany and her delectable delicacies can be found all over the world. Miranda's recent influences include the colors and textures of India and the Art Deco period. Her ever-evolving line of Konplott jewels is sure to satisfy your more exotic moments. We'll also miss seeing Miranda at the show, but rest assured she's sending plenty of fun fare to try.



Fiberlicious

Susan Horton
Cotton, silk, wool and tencel are key ingredients in Susan's fine woven scarves and shawls. If you're craving soothing colors and soft fibers, you'll flip over Susan's creations. You only need to watch her at her loom for a few minutes to realize that "perfection" is her middle name. Her enticing treats are perfect for all seasons and are always in style. If we're lucky she will bring her latest creations of clutches and handbags that are 100% woven & 1000% awesome!


Valerie McLean
Added to our mix this year is felt artist Valerie, who hails from Santa Barbara. Her felted wool stylings are full of color, form and whimsey. This textile artist fell in love with felting after visiting New Zealand and encountering other artists willing to share their expertise and creativity to help give her a boost on her way. Valerie's felt scarves, hats and vessels utilize yummy colors both bright and muted and textures ranging from smooth and silky to heavily woven.

Passion for Clay
Maria Counts
Let the whimsical and sophisticated ceramics from San Diego artist Maria tempt your senses! Candy-colored glazes highlight her stunning designs. Maria's clocks, vessels, embossed kimonos, teapots and fun cast of characters enhance any setting, from dining tables to bookshelves to home offices. New creations include indoor/outdoor garden "totem" sculptures. Maria is always experimenting to whip up something new for you to savor!


Lisa Mertins
Working in as many mediums as she possibly can, Lisa does it all! From intriguing ceramics and fine art,  to jewelry and children's book illustrations, this talented lady is always up to something new. Lisa's creativity satisfies the whimsical palate with her stamped, fine-walled porcelain creations and asymmetrical shapes. Always cooking up something new, we can't wait to see what she brings us this year. 

Mixed Media Mania
Suzanne Currie
Pure, glossy color in free-form organic shapes? Can you say "yummy?" Suzanne mixes up paint and paper to create her brightly-hued mixed media on board medleys. Offering small, one-of-a-kind contemporary images and larger, bolder statement pieces, Suzanne stirs her creations into a frenzy of color and finishes them off with a layer of epoxy resin to give them a sugar-coated gleam. Her newest experiments include artsy bangle bracelets and furniture featuring her unique designs.


A small sampling from each artist is available online, but don't worry - everything will be new on Feb. 8th! Each artist is bringing a larder of new goodies! 

Don't forget - not only will we be serving up a feast for the eyes, we'll also be serving up a sweet feast for your tummies. So grab your girls or favorite guy and come spend the afternoon with us!

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Wow, our 22nd Annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show & Book Signing was a fun-filled wonderful day! Chemers Gallery was packed to the brim with art & book lovers eager to meet our talented illustrators & authors and view the original children's book illustrations on display. HUGE thanks to everyone who joined us, especially artists Michael Hague, Brett Helquist, Molly Idle, Stacy Innerst and John Parra, authors Paul Brewer, Kathleen Hague, Kathleen Krull and Roseanne Greenfield Thong, and our extraordinary volunteers from Chapman University! We'd also like to thank the Orange County Children's Book Festival for arranging for the illustrator talks and demos to be filmed, as well as Theresa Battel and Ann Heusted for donating super-yummy cheeses and cookies for the day!

If you missed the big day, take a look at some of the pictures provided by Max Kosydar and Guillermo LeFranc - thanks, guys! (You can see the whole photo album on our Facebook album.)

What an amazing crowd!

Cathy and John Parra with Cathy's brand-new piece of art from Waiting for the Biblioburro

Brett Helquist signs one of the Series of Unfortunate Events

Molly Idle has a very serious discussion with our friends Lauren and Leilani

Husband and wife illustrator/author team Michael & Kathleen Hague, hard at work

Darla brings her Beatles books to be signed by authors Paul Brewer and Kathleen Krull and illustrator Stacy Innerst

Just a couple of our fabulous Chapman University volunteers

Vanessa reads to the children during Story Time

Karen gets everyone's attention to announce the illustrator talks & demos in the tent

Stacy Innerst signing away

Barbara introduces herself to Molly Idle

Karen with John Parra and civil rights leader Sylvia Mendez

Our volunteers were the best!

These kids were oh-so-excited about their books!

Kathleen Krull & Paul Brewer have a mountain of Beatles books to sign

From left to right: Molly Idle, Kathleen Hague, Roseanne Greenfield Thong, John Parra, Michael Hague, Stacy Innerst, Brett Helquist, Paul Brewer, Kathleen Krull

The whole gang is here!

We still have signed books and lots of other goodies for under $100 for those last-minute holiday gifts, so come on in!

Chemers Gallery Holiday Hours
Sun 12/22 12pm - 4pm 
Mon 12/23 10am - 7pm
Tue 12/24 10am - 2pm ish
Wed 12/25 Merry Christmas!
Thurs 12/26 10am - 6pm
Fri 12/27 10am - 6pm
Sat 12/28 10am-5pm
Sun 12/29 - Thurs 1/2/2014 Closed for R&R and Inventory
Back to normal hours Friday January 3rd

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Zebras and Angels, acrylic on board by John Parra

Guitar Case Roller Coaster, acrylic by Stacy Innerst

In Front of Studio, Prismacolor by Molly Idle

Tapping on Shoulder, oil & acrylic by Brett Helquist

Holding Knife & Fork, oil & acrylic by Brett Helquist

Winter Fairy, watercolor by Michael Hague

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I can hardly believe that our children's book illustration show is almost here! It feels like our last one was just last month instead of last year. Every year, the artwork and book selections get better and better, and this year is no exception. Our 5 talented illustrators will be joined by 3 amazing authors to make 1 exciting event on December 7th. If you haven't picked your books yet, time is running out! You have until November 30th to make your selections. If you need a little help from your friends, here are my personal faves for the year.

Wendy Sewing, watercolor, pen & ink

Michael Hague's books are oh-so-classic and I love love love his rendition of J.M. Barrie's tale of Peter Pan. The 100th Anniversary Edition is filled with beautiful artwork right from the title page depicting Peter as a wild-haired boy who is king of his land. Complete with vividly detailed imagery of the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, the Darlings and, of course, Tinkerbell, Barrie's words truly are brought to life once again.

Michael Hague's Read-to-Me Book of Fairy Tales

If Peter Pan is a little too advanced for your reader, why not try Michael's newest book? 14 of the most beloved children's classics were carefully selected and illustrated to form Michael Hague's Read-to-Me Book of Fairy Tales. Lush illustrations accompany the text of "The Little Mermaid," "Sleeping Beauty" and many more well-known stories.

As an added treat, author Kathleen Hague will be joining Michael to sign their book Good Night, Fairies. Quantities of this special book are limited, so make your selections early!

Pointing, oil & acrylic

Usually Charles Dickens intimidates me, but not when he's accompanied by Brett Helquist's stunning oil & acrylic illustrations. (Appearing in picture book form sure helps, too!) The familiar story of Ebeneezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet-to-Come are vividly portrayed by Brett's bold colors. This book reminds me of the film version starring George C. Scott, a staple of my childhood holiday traditions! 

From A Series of Unfortunate Events

For older readers, there are a number of wonderful chapter books ranging from The Three Musketeers to the ever-popular A Series of Unfortunate Events. For the first time ever, Brett has decided to sell a very select grouping of original graphite illustrations from the series that launched his children's book illustration career! Also on hand are the Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, something I remember reading when I was younger. These books gave me hours of enjoyment and packed a great creep-factor.

Dancing Together, Prismacolor

The more I look at Flora & the Flamingo, the more I find to love. Deceptively simple, each reading reveals a new interpretation. Unique to this year's selection, this is a book without any words. Throughout the story the characters learn to accept one another and dance together. This is also an interactive book with fold-down flaps, which reminds me of animated films (By the way, Molly is a former animator for DreamWorks!) I hear a orchestra in my head every time I flip through the pages.

Tea Rex, written & illustrated by Molly Idle

Molly's been a busy lady this year. Not only has she produced Flora & the Flamingo, she's also written and illustrated Tea Rex and illustrated Zombelina! Girly at first glance, each book has a little unexpected twist. Tea Rex reads like an ettiquette guide to hosting a tea party, and the guest of honor happens to be a T-Rex! For the girl who loves monsters, Zombelina is about a dancing zombie with a case of stage fright.

Guitar Case Roller Coaster, acrylic on board

The Beatles. What more can you say? How great is it that there's a children's book about such an iconic band? The Beatles Were Fab focuses on how lighthearted and downright funny John, Paul, George and Ringo were, entertaining everyone from the Queen Mum to us Yanks on the Ed Sullivan Show. Stacy Innerst's lively illustrations portray the Fab Four on their journey "to the toppermost of the poppermost." Lifelong fans will adore taking a trip down "Penny Lane""Eight Days a Week!" Authors Kathleen Krull & Paul Brewer will be signing alongside Stacy, and the trio will even give a talk about their collaborative efforts "Across the Universe." (Click here for complete talk & demo schedule!)

One Man Band, from M is for Music

Also in a musical vein is M is for Music, an alphabet book for the musically inclined. I love anything to do with creativity and music, so this book is right up my alley! What I love even more than the text are Stacy's quirky illustrations, some of which were on view at the Chicago Art Institute. Look closely and you'll see that not only has he used paint on illustration board, he's also used pieces of tin to give dimension to his offbeat characters!

Woman Weaving, acrylic on board

There's just something about P is for Pinata that I love. John Parra's folk art illustrations show off key aspects of his Latin American roots that are written in simple verse as well as factual prose. I keep coming back to the image of the woman weaving - that little bee gets me every time! However, my favorite letter is L for Lava and some of Mexico's famous volcanoes. When I was in elementary school I read a story about one of these volcanoes that a local farmer "plowed up" that soon grew to swallow his fields. From then on I was convinced I had a volcano growing under my bed and it kept me up at night. Kind of a strange reason to love the letter L, but then again, that's me.

Round is a Tortilla, illustrated by John Parra

Another great read is Round is a Tortilla. Not only does it teach shapes, it also teaches Spanish words throughout the simple text. Perfect for younger readers, there is a Spanish/English glossary in the back to explain some of the unfamiliar terminology. We just found out that author Rosanne Thong will be joining us the day of the show, too! (She also wrote the popular story Wish, illustrated by Elisa Kleven.)

Don't forget, Saturday November 30th is your last day to pre-order your books! If you need any book recommendations, just ask! For the complete book list, click here.

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What a stellar line-up!!

Presale of all books and artwork begins Tuesday, October 1st and will continue until each illustrator has pre-sold 200 books or close of business (5pm PST) on Saturday, November 30th, whichever comes first. More details to be announced, so keep checking back for the latest buzz!

Come for the art and books and stay all day!
As in the past, we'll have our tent set up for the illustrator talks, demos and presentation. Where else in California can you view original children's book illustrations, meet the artists and get your books signed and dedicated all at the same time?

Chemers Gallery has chosen Chapman University College of Educational Studies K-12 Literacy Programs as the beneficiary for our event. CES provides world class tutoring to K-6 grade students regardless of financial resources and creates custom libraries of books for students to take home. They also provide after school programs in the community and a pathway to bring 1st generation students to the university level.

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You've been waiting patiently for the new season of Ayala Bar jewelry to arrive and your patience has been rewarded because here it is!

Look at all the goodies!

The bold, fashion-forward designs from this Israeli artist are better than ever. We don't know how she does it, but each season is more impressive than the last! The Fall/Winter 2013 season is filled with yummy colors with mouthwatering collections such as Crushed Berries, Raspberry Truffle and Plum Royale.

From the Begonia collection

With her signature attention to detail, Ayala Bar's beautiful adornments feature unique beads, crystals, fabrics and papers. As a former costume designer, she understands how to bring dramatic flair to any occasion. Her fascinating fancies are the perfect complement to any outfit, whether it's jeans and a tee or an elegant cocktail dress.

From the Venetian Fantasy collection

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