:: CaribLime ::

Blog Loving

2011-10-10T12:36:00.004+01:00

Oh My! It's been practically six months to the day since I last wrote on my blog. Shame! It's not like I have nothing to say... in fact too much has been going on. Let's just say life had taken over me.

At the moment, I'm winding down and trying to bring the most testing period I have ever lived to a close and usher in a new phase. My six month contract with my old work place is coming to an end soon (sniff -it's been cool working with the old team again) and I will be relocating (again! - Dominica this time). I have a spider diagram sketched in pencil of what I would like to achieve over the next year. But if I've learnt one lesson over the past 2 years it's life ain't yours alone to live... so be ready for change.

In terms of artistic endevours -well they're very much alive. And if a process requires two-thirds planning then I'm ready to start the action. The next six months are gonna be very interesting.... scary... but I have a feeling they're going to be amazing.

Spring is in full swing...

2011-04-11T15:48:00.005+01:00

My goodness it has REALLY been a full day. After going back to the doctor this morning for some meds for myself (I swear the doctor has seen me and my daughter more times in the past few weeks than I have seen one in my lifetime), trying to settle miss Indie - who is very much awake while I'm typing and decided to completely skip her nap today - and catching up with the 101 tasks that I have started but not yet finished, I have just had such a blow to my sensibilities that I had to sit down and regroup.

Now I know that all sounds very cryptic. But I don't like calling people out in public. Instead, I like to look at a situation and find the lessons and morals behind it. So the big lesson I have learnt today is that you should always set aside time to spring clean your priorities.

Why? Because the things you say yes too with a bucket full of enthusiasm may not be the things you should be involved in. So know when it's time to bow out and do so gracefully. The moment you do that, you will feel more energised, organised and confident that the things left in your care will be handled well. So in the words of a British honey advert airing: I am a Master of one thing, not a Jack of all trades...

Have a wonderful week peeps! I'm going to complete my spring clean cos summer is round the corner.

(p.s. The Trini in me could add a three letter word to the end of "Jack" to really bring home the message lol)

I was meant to be...

2011-04-05T19:55:00.007+01:00

I swear I've found my calling: Market Trading !!!! But seriously, West Norwood Feast was AMAZING. And to think that I almost didn't go! The organisation, atmosphere, fellow traders, customers - everything was brilliant, and I loved the whole experience. The steady flow of sells was a huge boast to my confidence and the best part was being able to market to my neighbourhood. People felt proud to buy something made by someone locally and I felt encouraged that complete strangers would give up her hard earned cash to own a piece of my work. I will definitely be at the next one.

I have to give a "Shout Out" to a few peeps I met there:

My neighbour on my right "Stuffednonsense" who sell unique handmade soft creatures(they're really well made and trigger your imagination - my daughter is now a proud owner of one of their elephants).

My neighbour across the way "TALF77" who schooled me on "street market philosophy" and who makes colourful wooden jewelry.

The organisers of the West Norwood feast. You did a fantastic job from start to finish.

And of course my family and fellow traders:

TMB (aka Thalia Nero) who sells handmade bags and purses that will have any fashionista drooling.

Gwen "Alan Sugar" Johnson who filled people's bellies with delicious homemade cakes and brownies (ask me for her details)

Tantie Lorraine (aka my big sis Bev) who made a public debut of her homemade jams & preserves (ask me for her details). Words cannot describe the taste. You just have to try them for yourself and then open an account for repeat orders! Yes, they're that good.

I have another market this Sunday - which I'll promote in another post later in the week. So I'm gonna sign off now cos I have plenty work to do.

P.S. A belated Happy Mother's Day to all the real and adopted mums in the UK. Hope you had a fabulous day.

Announcement: Market Day - ShayGon @ The West Norwood Feast on 3rd April 2011

2011-03-24T17:23:00.002Z

So there I was looking for ways to "get out there and sell!" when I was told about the West Norwood Feast market. I couldn't let an opportunity like this slip by - and trust me, this is a big opportunity for several reasons. The number 1 being that it's right on my doorstep. I can travel there easily with my load of goodies and get back home at the end of a hopefully tiring day without too much trouble.

The market is a community project aimed at bringing everyone together and I love that ethos. It's also a great opportunity to test my newest products. Yes! I have finally started my range of home accessories and accents. Everything is handmade by me and created using a generous proportion of recycled, upcycled or been through a cycle material.

So look out for some preview shots of the newest offerings from ShayGon.

Musing: Pole, Pole - Slowly Slowly

2011-03-23T14:00:00.003Z

I haven't been active online for quite some time. Well I had a good reason for the absence. Mainly, I had a beautiful baby girl in May 2010. So this has used up a lot of my physical energy and time.

But time hasn't been spent lamenting on the lose of one's "freedom" to do anything I want when I want nor has it been left to idly waste away. In fact, my new responsibility has allowed me to refine and define myself and the direction I want to grow. I have spent a considerable amount of time spring-cleaning my business plan and visualizing ShayGon the way I want it to be.

I have finally started my home interiors range of goodies which will be on sell soon. As for my artwork - well let's just say I'm feeling more comfortable with the style I'm producing.

The past year has shown me that some things take time - and deservidly so! I mean, who likes eating half-cooked bread? lol

So in the words of one of my daughter's favourate programs:

Pole Pole
Slowly, Slowly
Cos good things comes to those who wait...

Final Artworks for the Sisters in Spirit Exhibition - Stroud Green Library, Haringey, London

2010-10-24T20:09:00.011+01:00

Title: The Long and Short of It
Title: Tip Ex

Title: Busy Bodies

Title: Proud Mama

Title: Inheritance

Title: Shea

The final Artworks for the Sisters in Sprit Exhibition - The Original Gallery, Horrnsey Library, Harringey, London, - Oct 1st to Oct 31st 2010

2010-10-24T00:29:00.015+01:00

Title: Wrapport I
Title: Wrapport II

Title: She Wears A Crown

Title: The Conference

Title: Bless Me

Preparing for the Sisters in Spirit Exhibition

2010-09-24T19:34:00.006+01:00

India has the cold, is teething while I'm fighting back the cold, sleep and everything else! Yet we're still creating day and night.

Sisters in Sprit - Black History Month Exhibition - 1-30 October 2010

2010-09-20T18:06:00.006+01:00

BE THERE OR BE SQUARE LOLOL!!!

Are you sitting comfortably?

2010-09-19T11:49:00.005+01:00

There was a man playing the piano at bar. He was a good piano player. People came out just to hear him play. But one night, a patron told him he didn't want to hear him just play anymore. He wanted him to sing a song.

The man said: "I don't sing."

But the customer was persistent. He told the bartender: "I'm tired of listening to the piano. I want that guy to sing!"

The bartender shouted across the room: "Hey buddy! If you want to get paid, sing a song. The patrons are asking you to sing!"

So he did.

He sang a song. A piano player who had never sung in public did so for the very first time. And nobody had ever heard the song Mona, Mona Lisa sung the way it was sung that night by Nat King Cole.

He had talent. And he was sitting on it! He may have lived the rest of his life as a no-name piano player in a no-name bar, but because he had to sing, he went on to become one of the best-known entertainers in America and the world.

You too have skills and abilities.

You may not feel as if your "talent" is particularly great, but it may be better than you think. And with persistence, most skills can be improved. Besides, you may as well have no ability at all if you sit on whatever talent you possess.

The better question is not "What ability do I have that is useful?"

It is rather "How will I use whatever ability I have?"

Title: Sitting On your Talent

By Steve Goodier/Source Unknown

The Belly Became Real...

2010-09-02T01:04:00.003+01:00

Introducing India Thandie LaRocque our beautiful, intelligent daughter. She is going on 4 months now and smiles at anyone who catches her eye.

EVENT: Caribana Art Exhibit - 23 July 2010 to 13th August 2010

2010-07-26T07:51:00.005+01:00

I wish I was in Toronto now to go visit this exhibition. These kind of events are few and too far between - An exhibition featuring the works of Caribbean people.

It is being held at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in celebration of the artistic talents of those of African descent. So go check it out if our in the area. For the rest of us busy dreaming of a flight to Toronoto, you can still visit ROM's website and track highlights from the show on the internet.

The painting on the left is by a self-taught Artist by the name of Nicole Alexander who hails from my parents twin nation of Trinidad and Tobago. This is the first time I've heard of her and I have to say that I love her style! Find out more about her on her website: www.nicole-alexander.com

Clap your Hands... Stomp your Feet

2010-03-31T14:58:00.001+01:00

If only I could clap my hands and stomp my feet. I realised today that my hands and feet are invaluable. I've been suffering from oedema for the last couple of weeks and it's becoming more and more difficult to do everyday things - esp paint. Every time I create, I have to take a day off to let my hands and feet recover. So thank you Lord for having healthy limbs... they may be "broke" at the moment but at least it's a temporary, frustrating thing.

Inspiration: The Belly & Me

2010-03-31T14:30:00.006+01:00

With just two weeks to go until "The Belly" makes its appearance, I was thinking about all the ways that the past nine months have affected my creativity. SO here's my list:

- No more oil paintings. Can't stand the fumes and not good for baby.

- Less painting because my hands are getting symptoms like arthritis and I physically can paint using the same positions I used to (I tend to paint standing up or bent over on the ground)

- Spending more time thinking about my drawings. I tend to paint spontaneously. But now I have to "draw out" the process because I can't paint for hours at a time. So I tend to sketch my ideas and then return to them later.

- Patterns! I've always wanted to design patterns which I can use in my art and my interior designs. But I had never gotten round to doing them. Since I have to spend so much time in bed (swelling feet and hands, sore hips, the usual pregnancy niggles) I utilise those moments to create a pattern. It's harder than I thought.... but I'm getting better at it.

- Cloth: I'm no longer confining my base materials to gallery wrapped canvases. I have now expanding into wall hangings using various materials from jeans to cotton to linen. I'm even thinking about collages using scraps of cloth, beads and wire. This is all work in progress of course.

Those are the main things that have come to mind. No doubt, the arrival of mini LaRocque will spell more developments.

Musing: Become the Change You want to Be...

2010-03-31T12:28:00.007+01:00

I read this phrase the other day: Become the change you want to be.

The first thing that went through my mind? Easier said than done! I mean, we all have dreams of the lifestyle we want. Many of us even take steps to get that lifestyle, encouraged by all the success stories we read. But the reality is that our dreams don't come easy. In fact another saying to comes to mind: If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans! Meaning we can't control everything in our lives, so we have to be prepared for everything and open to anything.

I remember striving to become a fully qualified-certificate-waving Solicitor. I pushed hard! I mean really hard - for years. Then one day, I was sitting in my studio apartment, jobless, trying to work out my next move but my mind remained blank. I had a set of paint brushes and loads of unopened paint stored in my cupboard. Materials I was storing up for a rainy day - a day when I felt brave enough to paint again. Well that day came. Partly because I had nothing else to do. Mainly because I wanted to express how I was feeling since tears and worry couldn't satisfy my soul. That's when I painted Erykah. I thought about painting someone bawling and full of despair. But instead I painted an image of femininity, determination, solitude, tainted, but still dreaming.

It made me smile, and life seemed to kick-start again. Creating Erykah was a revolutionary moment. It gave me the boast to believe in myself again and I kept applying for legal jobs in media - my dream role at the time. About a week later, I landed my first role - a job with Island Records - and life continued on from there. I'm still not fully-qualified. It leaves me with a bitter-sweet feeling to be honest. But I've came to realisation that whether or not I was fully-qualified, I am a good lawyer, I will always do that role passionately but it doesn't define me.

So here I am preparing for the birth of our first child (just over two weeks to go!!!) and trying to navigate through a jumbled map of my future: Will I be able to continue my art & design business full-time? -Nar, not at the moment. So what legal role should I go for? How often will I be able to create once Baba arrives? How can I involve more socially conscious work into my life? What materials will I use? Will relocating back to the UK hinder or help my creativity? What would life be like a year from now... Who knows! But I hope it's beautiful.

Inspiration: I wonder..

2010-03-09T16:05:00.004Z

I know people say that you should have no regrets in life... that all things - good or bad - happen for a reason and they have contributed to making you the person you are now.

BUT, I have regrets... well some things are regrets whilst others are "I wonder dreams". What do I mean by that? I mean "I wonder what would have happened if... blah, blah, blah". Are you following me?

Ok, I'll be more specific: recently, I have been asking myself where I would be in life - career wise - if I had decided to drop the Law part of my degree and study Product Design instead. You see, I studied Law and Communications as a joint degree in my "Hey Day" and whilst I was focused and had a 5 year plan in place for my career, I had a niggling confession to make: I was enjoying the Communications part of my degree a lot more than the legal part. In fact, Law only became deeply interesting when I was practising it.

Due to the Communications part of my degree (which involved the study of media/PR/advertising) I spent a lot of time in the Designs block of my university. I remember walking past the display units filled with the latest projects by the Product Design students, future silversmiths and all manner of creative bods. Man I was envious. And it made me late for a seminar or lecture many times lol. But I stuck to degree choice on the basis that I should always finish what I've started... and here I am today... looking back and wondering where I could be if I had taken that plunge all those years ago.

To be honest, I think I made the right decision by sticking to my original degree. Why? Because I knew nothing about Product Design. I wouldn't have been able to make a passionate go of the subject because I couldn't envisage my future with such a degree under my belt. In fact many students who were taking the degree at the time didn't know what they were going to do with it once they had graduated!

I have grown to appreciate the subject matter now because I have a diploma in Interior Design which I obtained nearly a year ago. Additionally, I can see how it could be used to secure a career for one's self because... wait for it... I have studied law. More specifically, I have been specialising in IP law (copyrights, trademarks, design rights etc) for the last couple of years. So now the subject makes sense aesthetically, theoretically and practically. I can appreciate the creative elements and the business side.

Will I be studying Product Design in the future - Narrr! But I will come to a point in my career where I'm finally combining my two passions - design and contracts!

(Photo credit: The Bone Chair by Joris Laarmaan -an absolutely talented designer from the Netherlands)

Etsy :: Treasury List

2010-03-07T18:49:00.003Z

My artwork "The Look of Confidence" has been featured in an Etsy treasury by ME2Designs. It's always great to receive a "shout out" by fellow artisans. The treasury is well curated and I like the other works featured in it. So check it out!

Pearl #3 - Look at your own actions before blaming others...

2010-03-03T12:00:00.007Z

I have grown very tired of irresponsibility. i am especially tired of people who make a mistake and start to make excuses that dismiss their own actions but firmly places in the blame in others corners.

So my pearl to my readers is this: Take responsibility for your life. Look at your own actions before placing the blame of the wrong-doing at someone elses feet.

If we all started doing that, I think that the world would be a much better place. Because when you see your own mistake, you're more likely to do something about it - to try and rectify the problem QUICKLY. Whilst if you place the blame at someone elses feet, you're more likely to walk away from the issue because you don't see it as "your problem".

So let's step up to the plate people!

Etsy :: Treasury List

2010-03-01T00:27:00.002Z

Yeah! I've been featured on a treasury by one of my fellow Etsy Artist of Colour team members. Why not check it out before it expires. There's a lot of talent in our international team:

Etsy :: Treasury List

Inspiration: When Columbo Comes Calling...

2010-02-07T14:54:00.005Z

I love Columbo. I've already concluded that if Columbo walked into the room and started scratching his head, I would confess to whatever the crime to spare me from the torture - even if i was innocent lol.

There's a deeper reason for my brief blog about this fictional detective. And that's to share another one of my tools for maintaining inspiration during the creative process.

You see, I can create and remain inspired in any environment: With or without music playing; in the day and in the night; standing squashed on the tube on a Monday morning; watching old movies or TV series.

I am inspired by creativity itself. And Columbo is definitely a creative character. He is timeless, unique, refreshing, smart, dramatic and always on point.

So here's a word of advise for all you creative peeps out there: surround yourself with creativity in every form imaginable. Do your thing in an environment as comfortable as your bed lol. Feel at home and the flow of inspiration will be unstoppable.

Artists: Kehinde Wiley - An Artist After My Own Heart

2010-02-03T12:50:00.006Z

Kehinde Wiley... what can I say! He's ignited my respect for classical painting. Like Mr Wiley, I used to visit art galleries in London and stare at the old masters whilst listening to the guide tell us how wonderful these paintings were. As one of maybe three other black children in my class, I would cock my head to one side squinting at those paintings and ask myself one question: how does that painting relate to me?

I had never ridden a horse. I didn't dress like them. My ancestors never dressed like them because they were slaves or simply poor. I knew a few people with the same names like "Queenie" lol.. but that's about it.

That kind of feeling never left me even when I studied GCSE art (High School Certificate in Art). Those paintings just never moved me. But recently, I have seen some interpretations that have stirred me. Wiley's creations are one such example. He used classical art as an inspiration for his urban tales -mainly about black men, their environment and how they see themselves in spite of their circumstances.

For the first time, I can read "those faces". Instead of me asking them "what do you have to do with me?", I'm saying "I hear ya..." His use of colour and pattern is amazing. His technique is "on point" making the figures look real to the touch. Viewing his work is like watching an urban opera. I just love it... and I have a new respect for those classical paintings. They too have a role in my book of inspirations. I guess even the unfamiliar can teach us lessons... just takes a creative mind to unlock the mystries that blind us to their purpose.

You can view more of his works on his website: Website

Artists: Unapologetic Art

2010-01-28T17:47:00.005Z

So many things have been going through my mind today. I feel very unsettled. Then the name "Chris Ofili" followed by the words "Artist", "British" and "Trinidad"echoed from the TV. I looked up and paid attention.

It was a report about the British-born, Turner prize winning Artist who has an exhibition at the Tate Modern in London. His Turner Prize winning painting entitled "No Woman No Cry" is shown to your left. I fell in love instantly. His cow dung accented work was perfectly unapologetic in my eyes. It was the wake-up call I needed.

You see, I have been struggling with finishing my artwork for my exhibition in February. I would draw an image them apologise to my future audience for drawing "another afro", another female figure", "another figure with black features". That troubled me... it rocks your confidence because you begin to doubt whether anyone can relate to your art. I don't want to be someone that's predictable... but I don't want to ignore what I know and feel because it might be deemed too "black".

A couple of times, I have painted something and a well-meaning family/friend would rave about it... then ask whether I paint flowers or a beach landscape instead lol.

I would reply that I prefer figures. They would persist. I would reply: I paint what I know, I know what I feel. At which point I would earn another gold star for being arrogant or a typically touchy "artist" lololol.

But I wasn't trying to be rude. I was trying to be honest. I was trying to make a point too. That we shouldn't have to apologise for our culture. We shouldn't have to apologise for having afro hair, dark skin, light skin, accents, smelly food, emotions, crazy laughter... Instead we should celebrate those things; honour them; see them as ordinary parts of our lives... no matter how exotic it may seem to everyone else.

Chris Ofili's Exhibition is at the Tate Modern from 27th Jan 2010 - 16th May 2010

Nugget: I Am Not Afraid

2010-01-25T19:45:00.007Z

Merry New Year!!!

Yes, I know, I'm 27 days late with sharing my greetings lol. It's been a hectic past 6 months which is why I haven't been on the blog.

So much has been going on with me. The major events are that Mr LaRocque and I are expecting a new addition in April (yayyyy!) and I'm back in the London (a mixed sounding yayyyy lol).

After some soul-stirring experiences and lots of deep discussions,"da hubby" and I realised that I would be better located in London. So here we go again keeping our long-distance bond strong. We're veterans at this lol

And keeping strong is the theme of today's post. I feel like my life is going through another transition. But I can't help but smile when I remember my girl Etana's words:

"I see them coming after my soul
wanting to take control...
Wanna give me locks, wanna give me bling
wanna give me all the material things...
I hear them talking about what the things the world has to offer
Girl what you doing don't you see?
What they have done to Bed-ward, Marcus, Jesus and all the Prophets...

But I am not afraid!

No I am not afraid!

If dem a come, let them come, cause I'm protected by the Most High One..."

My hubby used to play this every single morning on his way to work. It's like an anthem of protection gearing you up before you face the world lol. Now if he played it on his way home too I'll be worried lol. Luckily he has another favourate song for that.

So as I tackle assignments for my Interior Design degree, prepare for my upcoming solo exhibition next month, try to stay healthy and handle one drama at a time, I'll keep singing "I am not afraid"... because you've got to have a little faith if you wanna face life head-on.

Musing: Oil paints are da lick! (UK slang for "great-wonderful-amazing" lol

2009-08-18T21:20:00.004+01:00

I have rediscovered my love for oil paints. Well I had no choice on the matter since 1) I'm living in the Caribbean and all other paints dry too quickly 2) Oil paints seem to be cheaper and more readily available in the Virgin Islands than other paint 3) I needed to prove to myself that I still had "it" in me.

They have a beautiful finish too, which doesn't require an immediate coat of varnish to give it that polished look. You see, oil paintings shouldn't be finished/varnished until six months after completion. This gives the oils a chance to fully dry out and give the paintings a rich mature tone like a masterpiece!

So here I've been working on a stack of oil paintings. It's taking a lot longer to complete one, but I'm loving the slower pace. I am able to stand back and really study my creations. The results are great because I'm producing better compositions and colour combinations. I'm looking forward to adding my new works to the shop soon.

Musing: Waitrose in the BVI

2009-07-29T15:53:00.005+01:00

So there we were - my husband and I, walking through the aisles of one of the grocery stores in town. That's when I saw it. I slapped "da hubby" and squealed: Look! It's Waitrose! You Know! Waitrose... as in THE WAITROSE (sung like a 2nd soprano lol)!!!!

His face was blank and continued to remain blank even after I enlightened him.

Now for all you non-UK folks, Waitrose is a grocery store - no brand - owned by John Lewis.

Still blank?
Well John Lewis is a high-end department store chain in the UK. Their middle name is "quality" if you know what I mean. It was a revelation seeing all those jams, pastas, biscuits (cookies) and stuff. I was also trying to figure out how and why the grocery store was selling those products (at which point I started checking the expiry-by dates lol).

Anyway, it was a nice reminder of home. Can't wait to go back and sample some of the real deal.

Inspiration: Patterns

2009-07-06T19:55:00.006+01:00

I had never heard of Alfred North Whitehead but one of his quotes caught my attention:

"Art is the imposing of a pattern on experience, and our aesthetic enjoyment is recognition of the pattern."

Now the moment read this, I knew that was "it". This was the reason or "explanation" I was looking for as to why and how I can use geometric patterns in my work. You see, I have had a growing interest in geometric patterns recently. I don't know why. But it dawned on me recently that I seem to spot patterns in things without really looking for them.

Quite often, I need a pattern to unlock the finish or form of a painting I'm creating. It affects the angle that crook an arm; the dimension of an Afro; even the choice of colour. It probably sounds confusing from merely reading this, but if you look closely at my paintings and pay even closer attention to my works from here on end, you'll see what I'm talking about.

On that note, I would like to commend another artist's use of geometry, lines and patterns. His name is Ian Johnson and You can discover his creative use of pattern here.

My Artist Statement

2009-06-30T18:29:00.005+01:00

I realised the other day that I haven't written an artist statement. To be honest, if I had to do it before now, I would be lost.

I couldn't describe to you my work nor put into words what makes me tick. But I guess a series of recent experiences got the cogs in my brain turning and now I vocalise a statement about my art. So here it is:

My paintings are long stories made short. I try to convey both the action and the moral within my chosen "inches squared"

This is achieved through the arch of an arm; the flick of a hand; the tilt of a head. This is emphasised through colour, composition and texture. This is immortalised through featureless faces and unassuming detail.

I call my style "Urbanite" because my paintings are executed with professionalism yet produced with a social conscious. I address current issues with old-fashioned values.

I paint what I know...

I know what I feel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Melanie "Shay" LaRocque was born and raised in London to Trinidadian parents. After a career in Media & IP laws, she now works as a full-time Artist & Designer based in her homeland and the Caribbean. You can view her works and read more about her inspirations at the following websites:

Shop: www.shaygon.etsy.com
Blog: www.cariblime.blogspot.com
Flickr album: http://www.flickr.com/photos/shaygondesigns/

Musings: Michael Jackson - 1958 - 2009

2009-06-26T15:11:00.003+01:00

It was evening time in the LaRocque household. Hubby and I were watching part II of the marathon NCSI re-runs on tv after dinner when he got a phone call. I heard him say "Michael who?". Then his expression and body language spelt "some kind of tragedy". I didn't get too worried other than hoping that this "Michael" wasn't a close cousin or school friend of his.

So when he hung up the phone and said "Hun, Michael Jackson is dead" my mind went blank... then disbelief... then blank... then this strange feeling. I didn't want to cry. I just exclaimed "oh no!" and didn't let it fully sink in until we turned to CNN. There was no doubt after that. This wasn't a rumour or a hoax or anything like that. It was real.

MJ was a cultural icon of my childhood and early teens. I vividly remember dancing in the living room while his videos played on MTV. Going further back, I remember when his "Off the Wall" album entered the house. That poor record was played and replayed on our Gram (yes we had -and still have -one of those old fashioned heavy bass pumping Gramophones which were an essential fixture for any West Indian house party in the UK). Amazingly, it wasn't scratched.

He leaves behind many rumours, controversies and criticisms; praises, accolades, an unshakable influence on our modern culture; his parents, brothers, sisters, nephews... his children. A legacy. His life has been written and many commentries will continue to flow. But you and I still have breath in our bodies. So let's live like we've never lived before. Let us influence the words of our legacy.

Commission Feature No. 10: 3Angels

2009-06-17T13:58:00.010+01:00

One of my long term projects is to create a series of religious based art. Some of my favourate master pieces created by the artists of old have a religious theme. I admire the way that a great spiritual story can told with a paint brush.

I hope to create a series of similar in details as those great masters.... but right now I'm not brave enough to attempt it. Nevertheless, the desire to do it is real.

So in the meantime, I will keep "sketching" my ideas out in acrylic and oil until the day I can produce what what mind's eye can see.

Here's how the 3Angels painting turned out in the end:

I didn't get to take pics showing the level of detail on it, but these are pretty cool none the less. This painting is based on the three Angel's message described in the the Bible (Revelations 14). I didn't want to create a traditional "three angels with a trumpet". Instead, I wanted to evoke the individual messages that each angel carried because they were more than sound from a trumpet!

This painting was a commission for one of my Churches in the UK. I hope they love it and that it serves it's purpose of conveying the spiritual message.

The works that progressed...

2009-06-12T19:36:00.009+01:00

Here's a few pics of the art I was working on the other day in my living room:

The top set of pics are of a three-piece art set entitled "Citizenship". It was a custom order for a very special client. The artwork depicts three versions of my Afro-Carib Shield motif reflecting the nationalities of the client's family - Trinidadian, English and Dominica. Since I was still packing at the time of taking these pics, I wasn't able to take great shots of these. Nevertheless, here's a few close-up pics of Citizenship:

In Da Studio - June 3rd 2009

2009-06-03T23:05:00.006+01:00

Here's a few pics from "Da Studio" aka "the living room in my flat in London". As usual, I have a load of artworks on the go at the same time. All of them are at various stages of development.... but they all have one thing in common. They will be finished by Friday morning. The living room is looking very unconventional at the moment because I'm also in the middle of relocating. Yes, I'm a multi-tasker to the end!
Enjoy:

Commission Feature No. 9: An Empress Always

2009-06-02T22:16:00.005+01:00

Based on one of my previous paintings: Empress.

Size 20" x 16". Acrylic on Canvas..

Commission Feature No. 8: I is Yours

2009-05-31T23:44:00.006+01:00

Based on the Porgy & Bess song "Bess, You is My Woman Now..."

If you haven't heard it, definately find it and listen. It is one of the best loves songs ever. To read more about this set of nine paintings, click on the title which will take you to the listing in my shop. Also, check out my flickr album for further images.

Commission Feature No.7: Encourage Yourself II

2009-05-31T23:31:00.005+01:00

Based on the original painting entitled "Encourage Yourself". Apart from the obvious change of colour palette, I added subtle differences to this painting, made with the client in mind. You see further pics of this artwork in the sold section of my shop and in my flickr album.

Musing: Junk in my Truck

2009-05-31T16:44:00.006+01:00

So the one week countdown has begun. This time next week I should up in the air getting ready to land.

I'm looking forward to that moment for many reasons... not least the knowledge that I would have finished packing! I never realised that I had that much stuff! I mean, what am I doing with gas, electricity and phone bills goings back 10 years?!!?

But there's been some great moments too. Like finding my old "I Want to be a Ballerina" book with my name scrawled on the inside cover. Now that brought back memories. Memories of me dreaming of being a ballerina -even though I clearly wasn't built for it lol. Now I wasn't a big child, but I claimed my cultural inheritance on the thigh and butt department very early lol.

At the moment, I'm working through my art equipment. I have to decide what I'm gonna bring and what's gonna remain. To make my life simpler -and my creations more challenging, I have decided to take only a few things that I will absolutely need and concentrate on creating things with materials available on the islands. It makes sense. Otherwise, I'm simply bringing London to Tortola rather than truly embracing my environment. I think this will keep my artwork and designs fresh.

In the meantime, it's back to packing. Wish me luck!

Musing: One Month Until I Retire...

2009-05-02T22:36:00.007+01:00

I'm retiring in one month... no seriously I am.

"How can that be?" you must wonder. Well it was a mixture of blessings; opportunities knocking me over; me grabbing those opportunities with both hands; then shaking with fear at the realisation that this is "my time".

Ok let me start at the beginning:

You see, I got married last September and my husband and I realised that this looooong distance relationship thing we had going on needed to cease. Whilst absence makes the heart grow founder, marriage throws a huge spanner into the works.

My husband is a native West Indian, working in the British Virgin Islands (aka BVI), while I'm your "classic" British gal living and working in London, UK. So when we knew that we were gonna tie-the-knot, the commuting had to end.

SO we made plans to set up home in the UK... then lightening struck... actually several bolts of lighting struck. And our plans changed. So now I'm relocating to the BVI and changing my career.

Currently I work in law in the area of IP and Anti-Piracy... But from June, I will be a full-time, self-employed Artist and Designer trading under the name ShayGon. As my husband aptly put it: You've made it Baby... You're retiring at age 31... and I guess I am. At least from full-time conventional work. And I'm really looking forward to. Don't get me wrong, I'm nervous as hell for obvious reasons... but I believe that I'm walking through the right door at the right time.

So from now until I retire and walk onto a 747 a few days later, it's gonna be hectic. Exciting. Tearful. Joyful... or simply put: a blessing.

Treasury Feature #2: Bollywood, achaa

2009-04-25T07:27:00.010+01:00

I have been featured once again peeps. This time, my "Henna Lace Motifs -Mango Hues" have attracted the attention of Jen Singh. All these baby steps are gonna turn me into a big girl soon lol. Click on the title of this post to see the treasury. But do it quickly because it expires on Monday.

There are three sets of these babas available. Each set consists of a red, orange and yellow canvas block which features a henna lace motif printed with gold acrylic and finished with five glistening Swarovski Crystals. Smooth warm colour edged with imperfect antique gold details. How sophisticated is that!

Only $45 per set... but purchase all three and receive a $35 discount.

My First Treasury on Etsy

2009-04-09T23:56:00.007+01:00

Yayyy! I had my first Treasury feature on Etsy today. For those of you who don't know the mechanics of Etsy, the Treasury is one of the best functions ever. It gives sellers the opportunity to do their own curating of other products sold on Etsy.

Curating is simply the bundling together of creative works to form a collection -usually reflecting a theme. Think of an exhibition. A curatory process was used to put those artworks or items together.

So click on the title for this post (above) to see my first inclusion on a Treasury which featured the painting on the left of this post entitled "The Look Of Confidence".

Thanks Jill of Jill MacCorkle Designs who put it together.

Commission Feature No. 6: Topographical Me II

2009-04-07T22:04:00.007+01:00

Commission Feature No. 5: Ms Esmorie SunShine

2009-04-07T20:52:00.007+01:00

This beauty was completed over the weekend. I wanted to play on the owner's Jamaican heritage so used the colours from the national flag and combined it with the basketweave pattern commonly found in Africa. I think that the combination of colours, the headwrap and the Afro pattern makes this piece so powerful.

Musing: A Bitter Sweet Day

2009-04-01T19:24:00.009+01:00

Well it's April's Fools Day peeps... or as the protesters donned it "Bankers Fools Day"... a day of expression and extreme vocalisation. How do I feel about the demonstrations?

Well I'm sympathetic to the cause. I understand the frustrations that many are under and this is their way of making their feelings known. But the whole ethos has been complicated by the messed up motives of a minority.

I managed to make it into work safely and back home too. There were a few police around on my route -more visible than usual. But not to the extent that I felt scared or nervous. The protests are still going on as I type and I have no idea when they will end tonight. But I hope it ends peacefully and fruitfully. There's no point ending on a bitter pill.

Now on a sweet note, I'm still amazed at how bewildering it is for me to see the Obamas stepping out of Air Force One... or posing outside No.10 Downing Street. Today was the Obamas first state visit since becoming head of state and London was their destination. It's just an image I never imaged seeing in my lifetime... it made smile... and it made me late for work this morning lol.

Commission Feature No. 4: A MaCuMere sAYs Duet for Arthlene

2009-03-29T19:43:00.008+01:00

I love painting commissions. It's like writing an essay on the modern henna styles lol. A nice mix of fact-finding and cultural exploration. My lastest commission was no different. I had a very basic brief from the client: a MaCuMere duet. One green. One red. That was it. Luckily, I've known her for a number of years, so I incorporated the things I knew and things I felt she would like into the painting. Then I polished it off in my style. The result was this:

The client -Arthlene - Loved it. She really wanted to take it home straight away. But since I'm a "professional" I couldn't let her do it without giving the paint time to dry lol.

I'm soooo looking forward to my next commission.

Pearls #2

2009-03-27T11:52:00.002Z

Here's a brilliant pearl passed on to me by two of my cousins this morning:

Kim was having a conversation with God one day and said,
' God , I would like to know what Heaven and Hell are like.'
God led Kim to two
doors.
He opened one of the doors and Kim looked in.
In the middle of the room was a large round table.
In the middle of the table was a large pot of stew, which smelled delicious and
made Kim's mouth water.
The people sitting around the table were thin and sickly.
They appeared to be famished.
They were holding spoons with very long handles, that were
strapped to their
arms and each found it possible to reach into the pot of
stew and take a spoonful.
But because the handle was longer than their arms, they
could not get the spoons back into their mouths.
Kim shuddered at the sight of their misery and suffering.
God said, 'You have seen Hell.'
They went to the next room and opened !
the door.
It was exactly the same as the first one.
There was the large round table with the large pot of stew
which made Kim's mouth water.
The people were
equipped with the same long-handled spoons,
but here the people were well nourished and plump, laughing and talking.
Kim said, 'I don't understand.'
It is simple,' said

God . 'It requires but one
skill. You see they
have learned to feed each other, while the
greedy think only of themselves.'

Musing: Catch-up

2009-03-22T16:25:00.012Z

Sooooo much has happened since my last blog entry that I think it's time that I wrote a "catch-up" post. SO here here it is:

1. My first selection of Henna Motifs (no longer called LaRocque's Love Lace Henna Motifs lol) are finally on sell in the shop. So far, I've managed to sell three sets (the cool coloured ones shown in my Henna post) and garner a lot of interest in the others and a few requests for commissions. So it's not bad going really. Although I'm still on a mission to design my own signature henna motif and carve that stamp myself... as well as master the art of applying henna paste itself. But I'll leave that project until the summer. In the meantime, please "remind" yourself of what they look like: http://www.flickr.com/photos/shaygondesigns/sets/72157615685214670/

2. I'm so proud of my Mother and Child paintings! I think they turned out really well and I'm looking forward to creating some more. Check them out in my shop:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21851587

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21850005

And a few more examples in my flickr album under my collection entitled "Broughtupsy":

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shaygondesigns/sets/72157615690314414/

3. I have been working on my MacuMere collection of artwork recently (see pic above). Those are the paintings that I create in duets based around the concept of a "female best friend". Well I wanted to make it an on-going collection of "portraits" and I have been struggling with the direction in which to take them. I have been struggling with the idea of race, shades of blackness, hair texture, size/weight lol Then last week, the conclusion hit me. I shouldn't think of Macumere being one person... but several people... she is the manifestation of qualities, stories, experiences and counsels that I have received. All of this should be radiating from that female form that my mind's eye sees first in my dreams... and in my dreams, she's a eclectic mix of "Jackie Brown-Woman in her stumbling 20's-Knows how to look good at all times-Can make a mistake and fall on her face harder than a rock- But is wise enough to know that enough is enough" Afro-wearing black lady. With that image resolved, I'm feeling quite content. You can preview some images of my latest MacuMere works on flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/shaygondesigns/sets/72157615685709080/
I will be adding the actual artworks to my shop during this week.

Three updates is enough for this post so I'm gonna leave it there for now. But look out for "Catch-up Part II" soon...

Henna Motifs

2009-03-09T00:39:00.007Z

I'm on a mission to design my own henna motif. I've always loved henna. I think that it's an exraordinary artform. But I didn't realise how extrodinary it was until I attempted to try it!

So, until I master the skill, I'll stick to ready-craved stamps! Here's some artworks that I added to the shop today:

Another busy day at "The Studio" aka my living room -Sunday 22nd Feb 09

2009-02-23T20:47:00.005Z

My work in progress.... includes several versions of "Mother & Child", an extra two pieces for the "Dreaming Caribbean" Commission and a new piece called "LaRocque Love Lace Henna Motif"... ok, I made up that title on the spot lol.

By the time I went to bed, the pieces looked like this:

I tend to work on several pieces at a time... especially if they're similar... I like to cover my floor with canvases laid out to dry... and then take pics during my drying sessions so I can record their development. I should finish everything by Mid-Week.

Modern Black Art... a Curator's View

2009-02-17T16:57:00.005Z

A colleague at work sent me a link to a talk being held at Tate Britain next month (click on the title for further info). I immediately decided that I needed to attend. Why? Because I'm interested in hearing one person's opinion on the state of diaspora art.

Now the speaker is apparently quite controversal:
http://www.blacklistproject.com/List/Golden.htm
SO! With a track-record like that... it should be interesting. I want to hear how one African-American lady sums up her African-American culture, my British-West Indian culture, your French-African culture, your Anglo-African culture.... do you get my drift?

Personally, I think that it's dangerous to generalise... because by generalising, you step sideways from the truth.

On the other hand, I would love to meet her on the basis that she's a curator. I've never heard of a black curator before -esp one who's garnered the respect of the international arts community.

So it should be an interesting evening... I'll let you know how it goes...

My First Exhibition EVER!!!

2009-02-02T20:56:00.007Z

Friday 23rd January was the opening of my first exhibition. I was nervous as hell... but it was brilliant. What a way to begin the year and what a boost to my confidence when the sales started rolling in!

Anyone who is creative knows how naked "one" feels when sharing "ones" creations with the world. It is HARDDDD... and very daunting. You worry about what people will say. You sweat on whether people are just being polite; you cringe at the thought that another artist will look at your work and think "what a load of crap" (excuse the french). The whole experience is not easy. And I doubt it will get easier.

You see, I'm not an overly confident type... I take critism to heart. And my art is very personal to me. It took me ages to agree to sell a piece because I couldn't let go of my art. Every piece is personal to me. When I sketch, draw and paint, I'm expressing an emotion. Sometimes it conscious... sometimes it isn't... but I always feel something. So sharing that with the big bad world can be very uncomfortable.

But I did it and I'm pretty proud of myself. Not bad for an event that was planned in four weeks. The exhibition ended on the 29th Jan. I went to gallery to collect all the artwork and bring them home. Currently, I'm preparing the pieces that sold for collection by their new owners. I know they're going to good homes lol... and I'm honoured that so many people were touched by the simple efforts of my hands and heart.

So now I'm back to my easel... working on several ideas for my next exhibitions. Trust me when I say that the ideas are flowing. And I'm looking forward to part II in London town...

In the meantime, here's a link to some pics taken at the private viewing: http://rapidview.smugmug.com/gallery/7216320_i84bu/1/463585098_7gd4g#463585098_7gd4g

Snow Day Inspiration

2009-02-02T13:41:00.004Z

The image to the left is of me, standing in my brother's driveway after a failed attempt to get to work. The last time we had snow that actually settled was in 1992 apparently -Feb 2nd 1992 to be exact! So when the newscasters told us that we were getting snow from Sunday night, of course I didn't believe them... who would? Their predictions have been wrong for the past how many years.... but this time they got it right. And we were not prepared... It was actually a nice experience. My Ugg boots faired well in the conditions, as did my Espirit coat and numerous layers!!!

But seriously, today has been good for two things.
1. You should always be prepared. You cannot cover every single eventuality in life, but you should always think about today and tomorrow... and concentrate less on the past. Because when you dwell on the past -when you keep expecting things to be the same -you risk missing an opportunity or more precisely, a blessing.
2. I got an idea for some paintings. I love examples of the juxaposition of life in London v's the life we dream of. I saw such an example today while observing people walking through the snow. It was a simple image lasting a minute or two... it was the image of an elderly rasta man dressed in black wearing a knitted hat with a peek... I watched his solitary figure tread as carefully through the snow as you would through a rain forest or across rocks in a river... his gloveless hands were dripping with gold rings and he braced the cold breeze with neutral look on his face... I couldn't help but wonder what was going through his mind at that time... I didn't know of course... but I was betting that he was thinking about the 26 degrees of blazing sun in the Caribbean... at least that's what I was thinking! lol...hmmmm

Now the work begins...

2009-01-21T10:13:00.002Z

Yesterday I witnessed the inauguration of Barak Obama at work. And I was proud. It's amazing how great things can happen in the mist of confusion, hurt and turmoil. So many things are going wrong in the world that sometimes we miss the fact that good things can still happen. This is definitely one of them. So as the days pass, I will remind myself of this moment -this historical moment -and lock on the fact that with hope, hard work, patience and perseverance... great things can happen.

Now the real work begins...

Happy New Year... a belated greeting lol

2009-01-14T11:25:00.003Z

We are half way through the month of Jan 09 and I just wanted to say a belated (head bowed and all that in shame) New Year to one and all.
It has been an amazing 08 on all levels of my life and I think 09 is gonna be even better. I ended the year in a perfect place with my three favourite "S" words (Sun Sea Sand) and my favorite person (da hubby!!!).
09 seems to be going fairly smooth with exciting things looming in my near future. I decided to host my first exhibition. A brave move for someone who barely shouts about her artwork. But it's given me a buzz... and a lot of sleepless nights lol. I'm excited about it and it's forced me to take my art seriously and push my boundaries. The results have been surprising so far. I'm producing works I never foresaw and I'm growing in confidence.
So if you're in London between the 23rd Jan - 29th Jan, please come along to the Red Gate Gallery in South London and support a humble struggling artist lol.

Ancient Love

2008-12-15T13:40:00.006Z

Last night I threw caution to the wind and painted two pieces without a plan.

So I may have had a little motivation from the thought of hosting my first Art exhibition in a month's time. But that was not the point. Who paints without a plan? Who actually looks at a canvas and starts painting?

Well I did and it was great. Pretty liberating too.

The pieces are gonna be part of my "Ancient Love Collection". A series of paintings featuring symbols of love. They'll make great wedding or anniversary gifts. So they'll be added to my shop in the new year. I'm loving the new artpieces I'm producing (she says whilst patting herself on the back lol).

So here are the links to the two pieces up for sale in the shop:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21941284 - Ancient Love

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21893107 - Kete Pa

Encouragement

2008-12-11T12:42:00.004Z

Sometimes, you have to get up and grab it!

"What da hell is she talking about?" I guess you're saying to yourselves. Well I've come to a cross-roads (again) and I need to make some decisions regarding my art. I know I want to take it further. I know I want to spread my name and create a brand... but wanting it and actually being brave enough to do it are two completely different things...

I would see an opportunity and then spend half an hour convincing myself why I shouldn't go through with it... then the op passes me by...

The sky is still grey here in London and the temperature gauge reads "damn cold"... but in here, in my belly, there's butterflies. I can't let life pass me by when I could easily run with it.

So on that note, please check out ShayGon Designs -my Etsy shop. I have started my "Red,Red,Red" season for December and will be adding new items each week.

In particular, check out my portraits of Macumere -everybody's favourate female friend.

Sometimes you have to be an adult.

2008-11-27T13:36:00.005Z

Another week is rapidly coming to a close... hell forget another week -another month! And I'm wondering to myself... why am I here? Sitting in the office with a pile of work to do -all of it urgent of course - whilst my heart and mind are elsewhere.
It's not an easy situation when your desires are situated on one planet whilst your body is firmly planted on another. Where do I want to be: in a studio -my studio -churning out art and working on other creative ventures. Normally, the sun, a palm tree and a glass of sorrell will feature in this scene. But with the mood I'm in I'll gladly settle for a humble box studio whatever the weather. So what else is a girl to do except become a woman. I'll suck it up and bide my time cos knowing me, everything will work out fine.

Anyway, dreams-desires-cold weather-and the rude reality of sitting in an office aside... I can admit that it's not all bad. I think I'm finally on the brink of being part of an Etsy Street Team close to home. If all goes well, I'll be in your face and your face and YOURS even more than I am now (which doesn't happen much I much conceed!). Anyway, it's a good thing because I'm all for co-operatives right now.

A new colour scheme will be launched for the month of December. And my chosen colour IS.....Red. Obvious, I know considering the holiday season, but it's an academic move too (red is the contrast of green so the previous and new offerings will bounce off each other in contrasting bliss). Soooo, look out for the new works which will be added to the shop from Monday.

So on that note, I'll exit the blog.

Have a wonderful-fantabulous Thursday peeps!

Shay's Signature Colour- November 2008 -Shades of Green

2008-11-09T19:17:00.006Z

I set myself a deadline after the wedding: to re-open the shop and add new pieces of artwork from the month of November. By some miracle, I met that edict! Lol... Every week I will add a new item or two to the shop within the relevant colour scheme. So keep checking back to see what new goodies I've added.

I have to confess that everytime I set myself a deadline, "things" get in the way. But I was obsolutely determined on this occasion not to get caught up in the hype. So by the first weekend of November, I added several new pieces to the shop and made most of the old items redundant. Why? Because one of my new marketing schemes for Shaygon Designs is to have a Signature colour for my artwork each month. I found that adding pieces in an ecclectic manner didn't work well on Etsy -instead, it made my shop look like an untamed bric-a-brac store where anything goes. Having a colour scheme allows me to co-ordinate and polish the look of the shop. It gives the artpieces order and enables the buyer to sub-consciously group-buy a selection of complimentry items rather than focus on a signal piece.... well at least that's my theory. I'm not a marketing professional. Simply a lover of shopping. So I'm trying to translate the elements of shopping that I love into my design business.... I hope it works. In the meantime, this months Signature colour is "Green"...

So I present to you: ShayGon Designs in Shades of Green...

Remember, Remember the 5th of November 2008

2008-11-05T15:10:00.006Z

In the UK, the 5th of November is a special day -not a holiday -just a commemorative day for this guy called Guy Fulks who tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. To this day, I have no idea why we celebrate this act of terrorism (unless the man was actually innocent) but I love the bright fireworks and camp-fire food!

But putting that aside, this day has an even bigger meaning for me... it's the day America elected it's first Man of Colour to the role of President. I use the term "Man of Colour" broadly... because he's deeper than his skin tone...he's an intelligent man... and from what I've seen, a humble, hard-working, determined and inspirational individual. He's a human being -not a Messiah as some people have desperately commented on in a satirical way. He's a brave man -someone willing to dedicate his life to making his world and his neighbour's a better place to live. So I salute the man. I salute him, his family and all those who have helped to shape his life.

So I will "remember, remember the 5th of November" not for the fireworks, but for the colours of hope, the rays of aspirations and the symphony of dreams coming true.

I'm celebrating... and I hope to celebrate for a long time to come.

Taking a Moment to Absorb...

2008-11-03T22:18:00.002Z

What is going on! First the WI cricket team wins the Stanford Super Series (well done boys).. then Louie (that's Lewis Hamilton to you) wins Formula 1... and now we're about to witness the first Presidential election involving a man of colour. This is definitely a time to take note. It's amazing how things can change in an instant. The "impossible" can suddenly become possible... Of course, there are plenty nay-sayers out there... but I'm not heeding them. Why? Because they are not in control of my life nor yours!...

So take note people... take a moment to absorb your life...

Pearls #1: God

2008-11-02T13:22:00.008Z

It is only sensible for me to dedicate my first pearl to the one truth I hold dear: there is a God.

In this day and age, it's pretty unfashionable and almost unacceptable to make such a statement. But what can I say... I'm a non-compliant kinda girl! In my "ten-plus-twenty one-minus-ten cos you're as young as you feel" years, I have learnt that life can be as simple or as complicated as you make it. When I strayed away from the simple guidance of my faith -let's just say it got a "little" complicated. So I'm gonna stick to the basics. That there is a God.. and everything begins and ends right there...

Nugget #1 Percy Pig

2008-10-24T17:21:00.006+01:00

Percy Pig -Lemon Flavour!

From Marks and Spencers in the UK. Now I love my Percy Pig sweets... but today I discovered a new flavour -Lemon. It was soooo delicious and absolutely deserving of a Creativity accolade.

So here's to you: Percy Pig (Lemon Flavour)

Queens

2008-10-24T14:19:00.006+01:00

Some time ago... probably around early spring this year, I was travelling to work on the 8.17 train to London Bridge... as usual, we were piled on like cattle with no water, air or light, praying for a time when your neighbour knew about cleanliness.
Anyway, it was during that journey that I had a vision. I called it "Queens"... a symbolic piece of "Womanity"... so I elbowed, poked and butted the 5 million people stuck to me out of the way and retrieved my notebook... I sketched my vision... then forgot about.
So began the journey of "Queens"...

Six months later, "Queens -a vision of Womanity" is coming to life... a fairly big Oil on Canvas piece... and I'm feeling it... I'm feeling it a lot...

I'm not good at admiring my own work. I see imperfections daily when it comes to the fruits of my labour... but this piece is different. I can literally see my maturity through the shapes, brush strokes and deliberate choice of a limited colour palette. It's far from finished... in fact, I couldn't tell you when it will be finished... but when it is... I'll know.

Update:
Since writing this post, the artwork entitled "A Gathering of Queens" (aka Queens) was completed and exhibited at my first show in Jan 2009. It was sold during the private viewing. Although I miss peeping at it nicely displayed on my easel, I know that it will be a cornerstone for many, many more "tribes" artworks to come. You view pics of the finished piece here.

CaribLime...

2008-10-19T20:57:00.002+01:00

Soooo.. here I am finally sitting down to write my first blog post. Initially, my intention for this blog was to create a mouthpiece for my art and other designs. But then I realised that I can't talk about my art without referring to my life and thoughts... and so began "CaribLime".

My literary expression

This is the place where I can describe my design process... share my thoughts and feelings about everything and anything that influences my life and subsequently my art.

Why "CaribLime"?... Well that was simple. I love the Caribbean.. I love the terrain... the people... the food... the cultures... I admire the way that every visit to the Caribbean makes me examine my life and morals in a deep and laid-back way... hence the term "Lime" or "Liming".... And whenever I'm doing something creative, my world changes... I feel like I'm on a beach "chillaxing" in the shade... or walking through a marketplace contending with the commotion, sights and smells that hit you from all directions... other times, when I'm working late into the night, I imagine a star-laden sky and only the sounds of nature... The Caribbean stimulates me creatively.

So with that, I hope whoever reads this blog enjoys it.. I hope that it brings you a deeper understanding of my art and love of the Caribbean. Feel free to leave comments -both criticisms and compliments.... but most of all, enjoy the CaribLime...