Phillipa England

A series of self-portraits. An introspective perspective.

2012-01-07T17:41:00.003Z

The new year has brought new resolve.
Time is precious.
Setting time aside to do something that brings pleasure too often falls beneath the necessities in life. Excuses are easy to make.
No more excuses.
I'm starting with the self. Not a comfortable subject matter for me, I'll admit.
I want to be at ease in my skin. So, I'm looking within, and without!

Over the coming weeks / months / year I shall be making a series of self portraits.....drawings, photography, poetry perhaps...expressions of me. An examination of the Self, stretching some unused muscles since it's been a while since I've drawn!
Here's # 1

Graphite on paper - 15 minutes

2011-11-08T22:26:00.003Z

'Tis a sad day.
The wonderful Knitted Bull who has become a friend of ours may have to make tracks to Chelsea flower show in the Summer. He is being summoned but I am trying to have him keep his fabulous technicolour coat of knitted-ness!
I will be inconsolable should he go, never to return, yet over the moon (& back) should he be allowed to display his dream coat at Chelsea....instead of being covered in wickerwork.

Which way do you vote?

I have offered our community services too.....knitted & felted flowers to adorn his wonderfulness especially for the festival!....

2011-09-06T18:19:00.004+01:00

Barber's adagio for strings - my absolute favourite piece of music. Highly emotive. Top of the list on things to do before I die.....hear it played live.

Putting up the urban knitting project......

2011-07-17T15:30:00.003+01:00

It's amazing what tree surgeons will do these days for a nice cup of tea! Here are Mark and Robert very kindly helping us out with those tricky branches.....Mark was hanging upside down at one point!

The girls deperately didn't want to have their photos taken....but I sneakily took video of them hard at work...they did an amazing job of covering the bench!

KINGSFEST

2011-07-17T15:16:00.003+01:00

Despite the initial rain, the day was a huge success. A busy run-up, and all worth it. The community seemed to really enjoy it. Here are a few snap shots from my phone.....

We had fun putting the knitted squares together and seeing peoples reactions when they saw it...although the knitted bench proved a more popular place to sit than the other benches!

We were overjoyed to have Hunt Emerson join us (comic artist of the Beano). He kindly signed and drew sketches on all purchases made on the day.

Angela having fun sewing up one of the trees!

More photos of the day to follow when I have them back from the photographer....

KINGSFEST

2011-07-02T15:16:00.001+01:00

Saturday 16th July 2011 Perry Common Community Hall B23 5JD

Laurence Broderick....

2011-06-23T21:51:00.005+01:00

....is the artist responsible for the Birmingham Bronze Bull in the Bullring called 'The Guardian'
This little beauty is on loan from Birmingham Parks Dept. It's the original wire framework from the prototype of the 'Bull' I believe.
Over 60 knitters have been involved with this fantastic project with an estimated 400 hours of knitting! The youngest knitter is Lili at 9, the oldest is Edna who is 90! And folk are still knitting! It's a 'knit-a-thon'!
The Bull is nearly complete and he will be on display at Perry Common Community Hall, B23 5JD between now & July the 16th, when he will proudly kick off the 'Kingsfest' Arts Festival.

The framework in itself is a wonderful art piece. Here are some photos of some of the guys who knitted for it and also Cecil who helped me sew it onto the framework. Angela, who helped too, had just nipped out to make us all a brew! When
the guys had finished knitting their squares, many of them embroidered their names on it. We've even got the local police knitting, and councillors.....everyone has been invited to join in and it's proving to be incredible fun and a wonderful talking point!

Urban Knitting

2011-06-15T18:43:00.004+01:00

I'm working hard to bring together our part in the 'Kingsfest' project at work. It's a celebration of the creative talents across Kingstanding.
The urban knitting project (which is part of our participation) is taking centre stage at the moment and is coming along nicely.
The community have knitted squares over the last couple of months and we are busy sewing them together to then put around objects.
Here is the small scale tree I made for the reception area at work where people can drop in their squares.

Today I was jumping around - the parks manager has very kindly let me borrow the prototype wire framework for the Bull in Birminghams Bullring. We have him at the Hall and I'll be covering him in the woollen squares over the next couple of weeks. Watch this space!!
The acting chair of Witton Lodge Community association has knitted this fantastic police cordon tape too!! and yes....we got permission from the local police to do it!

In the main hall we will be having art installations from local artists and a craft fair where local crafters will be selling their work. It's all very exciting.
Tomorrow I hope to get photos of the Bull framework and will keep a log of the work in progress to share with you.
I'm lucky to be in this job. I get to meet lots of really great people and get involved with fabulous projects like this!

Welcome

2011-05-28T17:54:00.006+01:00

The mosaic that the craft group have made is nearing completion .....

I just need to stain the frame & it'll be ready to go up.

This little guy is our youngest member - Kye.

He's wrapped up in some knitting for our KINGSFEST project in July. The community are busy knitting away for this arts festival to celebrate the talents of Kingstanding. We are very excited to have access to the framework of the original Bull from Birmingham Bullring. he will be adorned in patchwork knitting from all around Perry Common.....as the Parks Manager put it, he will be our 'Woolly Bully' - it's going to be great!! If we have enough knitted pieces we will be decorating a tree too. Running alongside this there will be bits & bobs (all arty, of course!) going on in the Hall, showcasing local people's talents & craftsmanship.

Wishing you a lovely bank holiday weekend....I'm off to York Dungeons....

2011-04-23T12:37:00.001+01:00

I do love the sun! It's smiley weather for sure.
Started the day with an egg & tea in the sunshine - perfect!
A very happy Easter :)

2011-04-03T14:33:00.006+01:00

It's pouring with rain & a bit on the nippy side, but all is well.
I had a lovely breakfast in bed...

I was surprised to see sausages on my plate as I've given up meat for Lent (& doing really quite well!) Then I was informed they were vegetarian sausages! & I must say they're not bad at all! It was lovely.
I've been contemplating cutting down drastically on my meat intake for some years now. I can't give up fish - it's my favourite - & I think on the odd occasion I might have a lovely fry-up, but I think even after Easter I might carry on this vegetarian thing (of sorts!!!)
It's been a fabulously lazy day. I've got a little ironing to do later but then I'm going to indulge in arty activities. I have a few promised things I need to finish off for folk & also a mosaic for work that the craft group have made - It'll be dark when I finish it so will try to take photos tomorrow.
Looking forward to birthday celebrations on Tuesday for my sister.
I hope your weekend is treating you well :)

poem cushion

2011-03-17T21:04:00.006Z

How lovely!......I found it on ETSY here made by My Bearded Pigeon

Famous, Rich & in the slums

2011-03-14T22:20:00.003Z

I have only just been able to watch the second part of this documentary & found it, inevitably heartbreaking.
I want to help, & I know you do too. I cried as I watched Lenny Henry break down. As I tuck my children into their warm, clean beds I thank God for how fortunate I am.
I want to offer something small.....for the next month - ALL the money made through sales in my shop will go to COMIC RELIEF.I will try my best to update it with NEW items over that month - to try & tempt you!

WE NEED TO HELP.....

Mmmmm.........

2011-03-08T22:32:00.003Z

Made by my very own fair hands! Choc chip, vanilla & fresh blueberry muffins!!

Friends....

2011-02-17T21:33:00.002Z

Friends offer us much, not least of which is protection from many of Life's troubles.....

What a lovely quote I came across on the internet when I was searching for inspiration for wording for a poetry reel for a friend :)

2011-02-04T22:22:00.002Z

today some things have made me very happy.....today some things have made me quite sad. I've laughed and cried. life is a funny old kettle of fish......

2011-01-20T19:06:00.003Z

Ladies only keep fit at work....one of the free sessions we're running. I love how they use ribbons....it's so colourful & graceful - a fun session.

At the craft session on Wednesday, we had fun painting pottery - the fruit of our efforts will be revealed in 2 weeks time :)

Magic lantern slides

2011-01-19T17:23:00.002Z

My sister & I went to an antiques market some time ago. I love to have a good rummage! One of the many fascinating things we found were these magic lantern slides.
Here are a few of my favourites.....not sure what to do with them just yet, but I'm sure it will come to me in a blinding flash!
I hope you like them too....

2011-01-17T22:27:00.001Z

A fabulous image from a lovely little old book I have on first aid & bandages. It has some amazing illustrations. I pinched this one for the front of a card I made for a friend who has broken his leg in 3 places...ouch. A post for you, Steve :)Get well soon.

2011-01-16T18:35:00.002Z

poetry..

2011-01-15T22:22:00.005Z

Today I needed to pop to the market to buy some ribbon. That job satisfied, I was drawn to the second-hand book stall. I'm fascinated by old books....moreoever, I'm fascinated by the beautiful use of the english language in bygone years. Some command it so well....it's inspirational.
I bought a couple of little books for others & bought this one for myself, drawn initially by the wonderful Arts & Crafts style cover pattern...

Published 104 years ago, it tells the reader how to scribe correctly. It also gives example letters for both ladies and gentlemen to use as reference.

How did we ever manage? No mobile phones, no instant messaging, no texts, no email. I sometimes wish I lived in that era.

This book yields a wealth of inspirational, sometimes quite touching, quotes which reveal a wonderful command of the english language. I shall enjoy reading it.

my Christmas Present........

2011-01-14T21:20:00.004Z

....has arrived.

...and I can't wait to get started...Along with it came some fabulously old knitting /crochet patterns. I don't knit, but some of them lend themselves to other projects! These ones in particular will make brilliant birthday cards oncce I've used the image manipulation software on them & changed a few faces!!

mosaic

2011-01-13T22:03:00.005Z

I want to design a mosaic for the craft group to work on. I figure it will include the company logo...

...each participant will have a small square (4" x 4")of the finished piece to complete, then I will put them all together.
I was looking at other mosaic pieces for inspiration - there is some lovely stuff out there....I love the colours on these...

I'm still working on sketches which I will share with you as they take shape.....TTFN

2011-01-11T21:33:00.004Z

A morning spent drawing out another advertising poster ~ determined to get those people in! In my element with a cuppa in one hand and marker pens in the other!

We are continuing with the free sessions at the Hall....there are some great ones...this is Tai Chi...

A chip off the ol' block...

2011-01-10T17:13:00.002Z

messing around.....my 13 yr old daughter was asking me about portrait drawing. I sketched her......

...she then sketched her Dad....

Veg, books & papier mache

2011-01-09T19:00:00.004Z

I don't cook! I make pigs in blankets....that's it really. It's my one thing & I shall be making a batch for my nephew for his 19th birthday on Tuesday (as pre-ordered!).....I most certainly am no good at cakes!! This is my attempt at veg eating.... think I went a bit over board with the ol' garlic!! practice makes perfect!

Last Wednesday we made hedgehogs from books at the craft group. Something I saw at a market in France. I added the spikes myself...a little twist on the original design. We added a large brad for a nose & smaller brads/split pins with small circles of card for the eyes.

I thought about trying to make something each day - but honestly, life is hectic, so i think I'll stick with blogging daily & see where it takes me. I'm not going to force anything - this is for me.....my time to sketch, explore & create as & when it takes me. Yesterday I played with papier mache.....Here's the result.

2011-01-08T16:56:00.001Z

a short post - my friend's husband died very suddenly this morning. How fragile life is......:(

2011-01-07T21:48:00.002Z

Chocolate, port & lemon, G & T, crabbies ginger beer......these have been my staple diet over the last two weeks. Today my work colleagues pointed out to me that I comfort eat - all true (sadly) - as I tucked into a lovely little 'breaskfast treat' this morning courtesy of the office birthday boy!
So, I'm feeding my body vegetables & fruit smoothies as somewhat of a detox thing going on. I feel sure my body will shout 'thank you'!

Goats.....

2011-01-06T20:32:00.002Z

The national geographic.....one of my favourite sources of inspiration - some really weird, wonderful images, photographed to perfection.

2011-01-05T22:21:00.000Z

4

2011-01-04T08:00:00.002Z

An early start.....up at 5 ... with things on my mind.

Second round of publicity for the free tasters sessions I'm coordinating at work. Leaflet design went well, but it's never good when you're in the middle of printing 1100 off & realise you've accidentally put your home phone number on it instead of work!!! Aaarrgghh!

day 3

2011-01-03T17:45:00.002Z

....and a day of cleaning, putting things in their place....and finally drinking hot chocolate!
This charming little glass 'carton' of hot choc is one of my fav Christmas presents. I love the etching on the bottle ..... It will look lovely with some wild flowers in it.

In times of stress.....

2011-01-02T19:17:00.004Z

'Making things' is very much my pleasure in life. It brings me to a peaceful place. When I found myself stressed this holiday I sat & sewed. I made a collection of birds..... 3 robins, 1 wren as gifts for special people, & this colourful little fellow for myself.
I have some favourite fabrics so will be making more of this chaps for sale.
I like figuring out the construction of things....having an idea & making it 3-D. I love painting too, but model-making is more gratifying.

Challenge for 2011 ~ one a day

2011-01-01T20:04:00.004Z

A personal challenge for the New Year ahead......to post once a day...about what's going on in my world.
I've been neglectful of late...hardly posting a peep. This is my chance to rectify that.
Sometimes it may be just a photograph of work I'm doing, or it may be a short poem, but I shall endeavor to post something...let's see how long I can keep it up.

ipod pic's

2010-12-05T13:21:00.002Z

My goodness, I've laughed! My daughter bought herself an ipod touch with her birthday money & she downloaded this fabulous application - I've laughed so much!
Here are a few of the pic's .....clearly she looks beautiful & I look....well....I'll let you decide for yourself!

FREE taster Sessions in Brum...

2010-10-31T20:08:00.005Z

A few sleepless nights later.....it's nearly here! how'd you like my poster??
The start of the Taster Sessions is nigh.....A variety of sessions FREE for 7 weeks, starting 9th Nov (with a crafty craft session popped in there this Weds!) organised by yours truly - hence the sleepless nights! Yay....it's going to be Fabulous!!

Twice monthly craft - oh yes....I'm organised....well nearly! Tai Chi, Keep Fit (ladies only & mixed), Street Dance & Break Dance lessons! Knit & Natter....and training sessions too!... Although - the poster says the street dance & break dance sessions start the 8th ....nope, mistake, they start the 15th! good job they haven't been printed yet!!

So if you're a Brummie and live in or around the B23 area.....give us a call & book your place.

I'll be posting here as the sessions unfold & get going.

Toodle ooo........

Macmillan Coffee Morning

2010-10-06T15:51:00.003+01:00

We had lots of people turn up to our coffee morning last Wednesday. We raised £222.63. Lots of laughing, lots of tea....a great morning :) I'm in the throes of setting up some free taster sessions at the Community Hall to run between Nov & March - so having fun making a timetable of events....meeting some great people along the way.

TTFN

a few snaps...

2010-09-15T19:34:00.004+01:00

....of the craft seesion we run monthly at the lovely new community hall where I work. We were making felt acorns, with genuine french acorn cups, don't you know! Then putting a drop of essential oil on to make them smell beautiful.

I love this group...I know! I've said that before, but such a great group of chaps. We're having a Macmillan coffee morning at the end of Sept & I'm hoping to rope in lots of these guys to help / bake cakes / make tea!.....but Ssshhhhhh....they don't know yet....I've got to ring them!

Yay...

2010-07-16T23:05:00.003+01:00

...I'm over the moon to have been offered a job today. Working with a great bunch of people. 18 hours a week - perfect - & still have time for small folk & my artwork (which has taken a back seat of late - but will be making a revival!)
Celebrations are in order....yippee x

wishing all of you chappies a great weekend ~ I'm looking forward to mine :)

It takes...

2010-07-07T22:36:00.002+01:00

...only a few precious minutes for a day to change. Buttons are pushed. Cortisol levels rise.....consequently my heart starts to miss a beat or two - literally...and not in a good way. I reach for the good ol' St John's Wort & evening primrose. It works - I'm so absolutely not bothered if it's simply psychological - it helps.
I make tea - tea helps everything - and contemplate finding a quiet spot to clear my mind - meditate if you will.
Life is full of stressors. I no longer beat myself up - telling myself I'm a bad person, that I could be nicer - I'm a good person. I need to stop worrying so much what people think of me - which unfortunately is a constant worry to me. I do my best. My best to be the best person I know how to be.
Tomorrow is another day. A wonderful day, I'm sure. It will have its taxing moments, I have no doubt, but it's a day to move forward and be grateful for all the good things :)

Wednesday Craft Group

2010-07-07T19:09:00.002+01:00

I'm part of a great craft group which runs on the first Wednesday of the month. Run by volunteers, we offer crafting sessions free of charge to the local folk. I generally run the group activities, & I love it. They are such a great bunch of people & it's always a good way to lift spirits. This week we made table decorations with flowers & candles....I'm no florist, but 3 cups of tea later, we were having a laugh about life & swapping stories. It's the first time we've had our session in the newly refurbished hall in Perry Common......it's lovely. It's amazing to think we've been running for just over 2 years now! How time flies! TTFN x

2010-06-24T11:19:00.003+01:00

Chatter with old friends, drinking wine in the sun with constant companions, feeling the warmth on one's skin, homegrown strawberries ripening, smiley flowers opening, watching the birds flutter, finishing a great book, putting washing-up liquid on the water slide to make you go faster!......some of the things that mould us to be the people we are.

I'm so excited

2010-05-26T20:24:00.002+01:00

My book is taking shape! I have mocked-up 4 double pages (about 1/2 way) now. I say they are mocks because I'm a bit of a perfectionist & will redo them until I am altogether happy.

The whole venture is making me smile. Isabelle has always held a special place with me, as she was born of my very own adventures in France.

I want to show you ALL the pages, but can't....I'm very excited! Not too much longer now I hope...........Toodle-oooo x

First mock-up

2010-05-20T22:26:00.002+01:00

...of the first couple of pages. Thanks to all who posted here & in the ETSY forum thread I posted for software suggestions. I'm giving paintshop pro a shot (although it's taking me a LOT of time to find my way around!) I have picassa - which is good, but not quite enough. I'll give this GIMP a go too as a couple of you have suggested that.

I have a man down with sickness....& it's nearly his birthday, so toodle-oo for now....I'm off to mop brows & feed grapes! he needs to get super fit for his birthday treat at PGL :)

Image manipulation

2010-05-20T09:53:00.002+01:00

Hmmmm......having issues! Before I spend my pennies, does anyone have any advice on decent image manipulation software? I have photographic images, plus scanned images & overlayed text that I want to put together.

I am looking at what's out there, but unsure! I am looking at Corel paintshop pro X3. Has anyone any advice on what's good at an affordable price? Please help!

Early stages....

2010-05-17T18:08:00.003+01:00

....in book production! If I can ever finalise the images that I'm after. Isabelle is starting her adventures.

2010-05-16T17:35:00.002+01:00

The kiddie-winkles have been out to the fair with my husband's aunt & uncle.....they have had a whale of a time. Jenny is one of my absolute favourite people. She has an infectious smile & a fabulous personality. I love her to bits!

The ride home was eventful! The small folk arrived on the doorstep in a hurry!! My eldest had fallen asleep in the car on return & had dropped her newly won fish!! They floundered on the car floor for a moment or two, were scooped up into the smallest bit of remaining water & are now recovering in their new home!
Charlton (named after the chap who ran the stall) & Lucky - so named because he spent the longest time checking out the car floor carpet!

Alice

2010-05-16T15:19:00.004+01:00

...added to my ETSY doll shop. Thanks for the ideas for names....I settled on Alice - thanks Gina!

almost complete....

2010-05-13T19:54:00.003+01:00

She breathes....nearly :) Not sure of this gal's name. Answers on a postcard please :) I like her; I think she likes to dance and have tea parties with her imaginary friend. She has big hair & a pretty daisy in it......Her dress is vintage velvet, soaked in the rusty colours of Autumn....her pullover oldfashioned - she likes to play in her Grandmother's button box & eat freshly baked rockcakes with tea in a delicate, tiny china cup.
She owns a puppy named Maurice - they are best friends.

Do you know her name......whisper it to me......

wordless wednesday

2010-05-12T13:26:00.002+01:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T14:11:00.002+01:00

For more Wordless Wednesday, click here

Summer

2010-04-23T11:43:00.004+01:00

Such beautiful weather. It surely brings a skip to your heart & a smile to your lips...my trusty little sewing machine lies lazily in the sunshine now it has worked on these creations..........

For some, the holiday frolicking has just been all too much..........
It promises to be a wonderful weekend, with lots of merriment & sunshine. Hope yours is a joyful one......

Brainy publications

2010-04-02T18:00:00.004+01:00

Thanks to Laura Baillie's helpful tips, which she is giving out each Tuesday, I am going to give drafting up a press release a go. I have a few publictions in mind for my poetry reels, but I really am stumped with regard to my small felt brains. Does anyone have any inspiration? I really would appreciate any input, thanks so much.

20 years ago....

2010-03-26T14:09:00.003Z

(almost!) I had a party. At that party I dressed up as a strawberry! I was 21! The other day, my lovely friend & Aunt by marriage, Jenny, brought round a beautiful reminder of that day. She had been sorting through some things at home & come across her son's 'busy book' from school (20 years old). In it he had remembered the weekend & drawn a lovely picture of himself as the incredible hulk, his family - a witch, a chef & an angel; and me, a strawberry. I just had to share....how lovely is that?

I wish you a wonderful weekend with LOTS of smiles :)

Cardinal

2010-03-24T13:07:00.003Z

Here she is, completed....& here in my new shop.

Cardinal....

2010-03-19T13:45:00.003Z

GIVEAWAY!!!!

2010-03-17T09:09:00.004Z

Please pop over to the Etsy Midlanders blog site HERE.....we are hosting some GREAT giveaways over the next few weeks!! Lots of chances to win some fabulous things from us gals! Click on the above link to whisk you away ......

A couple of customised cards...

2010-03-16T19:37:00.003Z

...playing around with a collage with my daughter for an art project, focusing on colour, for school, & I decided to put together a couple of collages of my own as I needed to make a couple of cards....I think they have turned out to be real fun!

Pouring with rain....

2010-03-12T10:54:00.003Z

...and somewhat grey here! & yet my youngest daughter still leaves me a wonderfully cheery note stuck to the front door before she skips to school this morning! How can you resist??!...

Mothers' Day this weekend here in the UK.....so I've been making cards....alas mine isn't the artwork, only the felt accents etc....time is running away with me..

Great weekend wishes, whatever you may be up to... :)

Mother & Child

2010-03-09T12:19:00.003Z

Available with any letter on block or numbers 0-9 inclusive. Available in my ETSY store now....

34 complete...

2010-03-05T17:10:00.002Z

34

2010-03-05T12:52:00.002Z

She is complete & will be in my Etsy shop shortly.....She speaks of a personal journey.

New work in progress

2010-03-03T14:35:00.002Z

Working on some new ideas. This one is a 'crow' doll......more as she takes shape....

Heart Day

2010-02-26T13:33:00.004Z

New shoes; blatant, patent red shoes. My shoes.

It's National Wear Red Day!
Today, thousands are wearing red to raise vital funds to fight heart disease.

Doris & Champers!

2010-02-18T18:06:00.001Z

The story behind Aunt Doris..... She represents 'the customer' in a health care company. I was asked to make a tangible representation of her and so an Aunt Doris ensued.

Given as a gift to the company, I was rewarded today with this lovely champagne & a thank you card. I have some smoked salmon in the fridge so now I can have a millionaire's breakfast! What a lovely gesture of the the MD. Thank you, Mr Lord.

Feb 15

2010-02-15T10:35:00.003Z

Handmade felt with freehand embroidery stitching - birthday card. I'm working on a new doll design with which I will use this technique for the dress. More of that to come in due course.

aunt doris

2010-02-11T09:23:00.002Z

2010-02-01T21:37:00.001Z

I'll not be blogging for a time. I want to thank everyone for their lovely comments of late. I shall be back early March. TTFN x

this morning

2010-01-21T09:43:00.004Z

following an evening spent with Elgar, I'm enjoying the frosty start to the day, drinking far too much coffee, soaking up the quiet, working and thinking lots, in between listening about ice age swimming reindeer carved in a mammoth tusk! on radio 4....

lovely evening

2010-01-17T19:59:00.005Z

celebrating my nephew's 18th birthday. I remember when he was in reception at school....oooh, now I sound old!

A lovely evening, celebrating.

Today has been taken up with frogs legs .....

And now, it's winding down time :)

A good film & an early night I think :) Looking forward to a productive week ahead.

The snow...

2010-01-14T11:38:00.003Z

...just keeps on coming. it snowed all day yesterday & the small people were in their element as schools were once again closed. Snowballs galore!

Personally I prefer to snuggle in PJ's in front of the fire!

These next images show my latest completed custom order.....Harry, Christophe & Adam.

A trip through the snow now, up to the post office. I love the quiet of the snow......

A New Year

2010-01-05T12:05:00.001Z

This little chappy has been visiting me for a week or so now. He is accompanied by a lovely little wren & some young blue tits. I love to watch them hop around.

A dash of snow too so I'm a happy bunny - sledging later today hopefully, even though of those who know me will already be aware, I'm not a huge fan of being cold, it's fun to see the small folk speeding down the slopes!

So a very happy new year to you all. May it be full of lovely things :) TTFN

London Evening Standard....

2009-12-07T21:34:00.003Z

I'm very fortunte to have been featured / quoted in the London Evening Standard today! As you may know I use stamps in some of my artwork, and I'm over the moon to have been mentioned in the paper. I'm in print & online. I'm very excited.

Here is the link to the full article.........

Star collector Maria Sharapova leads new wave of stamp enthusiasts News: ..........."Artist Phillipa England, who uses stamps as part of her work, which she sells online, said: “It's a cheap hobby. People are looking for things that are interesting but affordable, especially during recession. They are going back to old crafts like knitting, crocheting, and stamp collecting's part of that.”"...........

Thank you to the London Evening Standard.

New cards

2009-12-03T13:51:00.005Z

In between working on custom orders, I have been making new stamp people cards. I really love these old button cards. I used them as a backdrop since I think they lend themselves beautifully to greeting people & making them smile, with titles such as 'The universal average card'!! and 'The special card' For more in the range, please check out my shop - use the link in the side bar with the poetry reel.

I've also been busy making my nephews their advent calendars...........their house number is 24, so it was fun to make # 24 the front door!

Wrap up warm & drink plenty of hot chocolate - the Winter is here. Happy weekend wishes.....

Cheeky little pincushions

2009-11-29T16:07:00.005Z

Just sneeking in a couple of little pincushions to get you in the festive spirit!
Available in the shop now. I'm going to be working on custom orders for purses this week .

Viva la Moda

2009-11-19T21:55:00.004Z

The online magazine Viva La Moda has been kind enough to feature my 'Poetry Reel' chosen by Kristina for the poetry section of their gift guide. (Ahem......I'm page 57.....cough, cough)
I'm pleased as punch! Thanks guys. Please take time to checkout their great magazine - it's packed full of wonderful things.

Yay....thank you!

2009-11-14T12:29:00.003Z

I am so over the moon to have been fortunate enough to be featured just now in the ETSY Storque article 'keep it weird: wishlist'
My little brain is famous! It is also in the 'Geekery Chic' Gift guide which is an honour.

It's been a wonderful week. I was also fortunate to be featured in Parents.Com in another gift guide - this time with one of my monster gadget covers....

I had a stall last night too, at a Christmas Gift Fair at a local church, and despite the weather, made a few sales & received some wonderful feedback - so thanks all :)

A BIG thank you to those who have been kind enough to feature my work - I'm so happy.

New Store

2009-11-04T12:30:00.005Z

I have a new store which is presently home to my new series of 'Stamp People' It is in it's early days & still needs tweaking! But here it is......Here are my brooch cards....

Bright lights...

2009-10-30T19:32:00.005Z

Small chalk drawing we found walking by the side of the Thames

Yesterday started with a coach ride at 06.45 to London. The girls got to see the Queen, by chance, as we passed Buckingham Palace, and there was the presentation of the baton for the 'Queen's Baton Relay' for the Commonwealth Games. We shopped around Camden Market & Covent Garden, and finished with Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament, by night......falling back onto the coach at 22.00!

As routine resumes next week, I shall be waiting on my deliveries from over the pond, keen to start new projects which are based upon my dreams - literally....more of that as they unfurl.

Antiques Fair

2009-10-27T13:24:00.005Z

There is a tempting antiques fair once a month in Birmingham centre. I haven't been for years......since my jewellery & silversmithing days, in fact. I have been, however, for the last 2 months.....it's wonderful.

I only buy bits & pieces that interest me - nothing of any size. I'm only really after stuff I can 'upcycle' to other projects.

This, amongst a few other bits, is what I found this time.

I also got some pieces of beautiful lace, which will become frocks for my 'colourful people'

I have been reading Oliver Sacks books of late, and watching a couple of his lectures online - fascinating. I have a certain fascination with the nervous system - the neurosciences......why we do things etc.....& so to mark my love of this area of science I have made a mini-brain......

Now, who has seen 'UP' ? - If you haven't then I highly recommend it! It's fabulous! After we'd seen it, I did however, have to make several of these for varying members of the family!! ......me included!!

Shopping list Saturday

2009-10-24T23:19:00.003+01:00

Now, today I am in shopping mode for vintage items. I'm finishing off a custom order, but once that's completed, I am working on a couple of sculptural projects which have been with me for some considerable time. They are both similar works, but far removed from my feltwork. They will be the first pieces to be in my new shop - more on that soon.

For now, here are a few favourites.....

FALL SALE Donald Duck - Walt Disney Productions - Vintage 1950s Bottle Cap found object for mixed media crafting assemblage

by RetroChalet

Frozen German Doll Parts Legs

by reginasstudio

j. and p. coats mending floss sewing box

by 5gardenias

Wing

by ohmycavalier

With thanks to the above artists for sharing their work. Please check out their ETSY shops. For a full list of participants in 'shopping list Saturday' visit Charlotte's blog.

Stamp People

2009-10-16T14:17:00.002+01:00

I have so much to do, and something that I thought would take me an hour or so to complete has taken me, practically, all day! I like these little chaps though. A project which is in it's early days but I will reveal more should it amount to anything, later.

Vivienne

2009-10-09T13:09:00.003+01:00

completed & available in the shop now

warm weekend wishes to all.......

Presently

2009-10-08T13:10:00.002+01:00

working on some custom orders & 'Vivienne' (my latest 'colourful people' doll) - inspired by Vivienne Westwood.
Also it's my Mum's birthday on Saturday, so I made her some felt cupcakes :) ..... busy bee. TTFN

Fantastic!

2009-10-08T02:46:00.002+01:00

Take a peek at this - it's utterly brilliant!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2EypojAng8

and this one too...... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT6InvLJUzA&feature=related

it's worth it, I promise!

It's nearly 2 in the morning.....

2009-10-08T01:52:00.003+01:00

...and I can't sleep. I've been asleep once then woke & things started running around in my head.......consequently I find myself here.

Today was the monthly craft group. Having collected lots of coffee jars over the last few weeks! I went armed I demonstrated how to make a lantern inspired by the lovely ones that hung from the trees in 'Mamma Mia' at the wedding. Here are a few of the guys at work......

This evening saw the most beautiful sunset........bright red - so tomorrow promises to be a lovely day :)New work - more of my 'colourful people' series. This is the skirt of my newest doll, made from collected clothes labels. I have since made her jersey & hair....more photos soon......I like this one. She is called 'Vivienne'. I hope you'll like her too..............

Isabelle & Luca

2009-09-29T11:22:00.004+01:00

Luca is the farmer's grandson & comes to stay at the farm for the weekend sometimes.....Isabelle loves this - they play together.

They play with Gilbert & Mabel during the day, and in the evening, Isabelle takes Luca soaring high up in the clouds with the bluebirds..........in her dreams

Isabelle and Luca - Felt Sculpture Mobile

$160

Good Morning....shopping list

2009-09-26T08:49:00.004+01:00

I want to start the day with a truly smiley sight..................I have 2 lovely, huge sunflowers in my garden courtesy of my son's national geographic magazine. They are beautiful. The bees love them too.......

My shopping list this week consists of one artist's work......I love these sculptures, with their fantastically ornate French feel...........

L'escarpolette see-saw by Debeauxsouvenirs

$125

Wall Lamp Feuille de Chene Foil's oak by Debeauxsouvenirs

$207.00 USD

New Carousel Mon manege a moi by Debeauxsouvenirs
$137.00 USD

Wire Sphere Lamp Allons a la campagne... by Debeauxsouvenirs
$255.00 USD

These wonderful objets d'art can be found at De Beaux Souvenirs over on ETSY. This talented artist is from France & her studio places in the loire valley in south of Tours and Saumur....

2009-09-22T22:53:00.004+01:00

This week has been filled with gadget cozy making! & finishing a lovely custom order of a box-frame 'Isabelle & friends'

I'll be sad to see this fly away, but know she'll be loved. She is the first of her kind, apart from the photos I played with for the illustrations of the up & coming (ever elusive!) books!

I have lots I need to do! & lots of ideas buzzing too. I'm thinking of looking into a proper studio space, rather than squeezing everything into the dining area at home! It's convenient, but really rather on the small, squidged side.

Tomorrow I'm hoping to spend the morning, luxuriously mooching around the antique market in town. It's been a long time since I've been - in fact, it was back in my silversmithing days!! so I'm on the lookout to feed my obsession with collecting small interesting, quirky objects, with stories of their own to tell me...waiting to be given new life......TTFN

2009-09-04T23:20:00.005+01:00

The Summer has flown by.

The holidays have been spent in my favourite place - France. The weather was kind & the scenery calming.

I have worked on a couple of commissions but following a bit of redecorating at home, and the start of school again next week, I shall once again turn my attention to Isabelle. She has waited most patiently.

Much has happened over the last few weeks & it seems set to continue in the same vein for a time. I hope to post here with more frequency & update on Isabelle's progress though.

For now, TTFN.......

Midsummer Madness SALE

2009-07-16T16:19:00.003+01:00

Sale now on in the shop........please check it out. I'm making way for new things, new ideas & a new shop!
Isabelle with her wellies on! ............. playing with images here....but waiting for some nice lighting equipment to arrive!

Isabelle, Gilbert & Mabel

where the wild things are.....

2009-07-14T13:20:00.002+01:00

custom iPhone cover! ......... cute little fellow - I had fun making him :)
Back to 'Isabelle' now .........

Urrrrrrrrmmmmmmmm...........................

2009-07-10T14:11:00.005+01:00

............a girls night in.....watching films, painting nails...eating chocolate & naturally......wearing bandanas!!!! (or woolly hats!!).......

I'm having fun with Isabelle! 4 stories written......models made (well, some of them!) .....just trying to piece together the images & playing with taking photos & getting the colours right.......she's coming to life though, & I'm pleased! The books will be here soon.....I'm crossing everything!

Here's a sneak preview of Gilbert as a baby........when Isabelle first found him in a puddle ....... she scooped him up & put him gently into a glass fruit bowl of her Grandmother's ....I'll keep you posted.......

shopping list saturday/sunday!

2009-06-28T10:23:00.006+01:00

I seem to be a bit behind lately....always chasing my tail! & feeling a little under the weather today, I'm afraid.

Here is my shopping list.........

Bingo Book - Consonants by erinzam

I love this fun book....I have lots of books lying all over the place waiting to be sketched in.....

1955 Graphic Orange Soda Bottle by SweetLoveVintage - This soda bottle is wonderful......the graphics on it are really fun & inspiring.....and it's orange! my favourite colour!
Storm Hand pulled Linoprint by littlebirdesigns - I love Jennifer's work. I have several pieces & they look wonderful! Check out her site....she has some great prints!

A happy Sunday to one & all............ :)

Pippi

2009-06-24T13:00:00.003+01:00

Here is Pippi.........

She's wearing the last of the french leather I have...her Mary-Janes. It is antique leather I found in a sewing box I bought from a Brocante last year........full of stories, I have no doubt......I feel that inanimate objects carry a fingerprint of 'life'.

These dolls are a pleasure to make & all are given French names, of course.

For a time now I'm going to settle back & give some thought to the small 'Isabelle' stories I have been playing with for some time. The stories are written, pretty much....with some help from my trusty assistant ------- Mum! Now I need to work on illustrations & piecing it together. More on that soon, I hope.

Isabelle

2009-06-18T16:57:00.002+01:00

A custom order I have just finished....Isabelle in 'big' form!
I'm working on a couple more 'colourful people' dolls....but I'm getting restless, as is usually the case. I need a change of direction for a time. May even turn to painting, not sure yet......

2009-06-11T14:03:00.007+01:00

I am part of a monthly craft group which we run on a voluntary basis, making all sorts of things......a great excuse to get together & have a cuppa & a laugh or two with some lovely people. I didn't run this session, this month, so it was lovely to sit back and participate.......card making...........here are some of the folk who take part.....

Other things I've been up to .............. making more in the colourful people series ----->

I really enjoy making these guys, and finding just the right name to suit their individual personality....this is Agathe & she's my favourite.......

She has cashmere locks & vintage french red leather mary-jane shoes. Made from black merino wool...she has a wobbly head.

Mathilde also wears clothes made using vintage materials.....I collect them on my travels, from all over.
Wishing you all a sunny weekend.

Walk with me....

2009-06-08T13:09:00.002+01:00

Original Poetry Reel $25

Old beige bias binding with an original poem is wrapped delicately around the reel and fastens with a cloth~covered vintage button & blue silk ribbon.

The poem reads....

'I miss you my Darling, why must I stay here? I speak to you silently, only through tears.

Walk with me ~ I might feel you ~ sing me to rest.....

In my dreams you are with me, 'til united in death.....'

yesterday....

2009-06-01T17:53:00.003+01:00

....I popped out to a garden centre with my sister.......& as we were walking around in the beautiful sunshine, looking at the plants we noticed this little Miss......

She was nestled quite happily in amongst the plants! So happy, I thought at first it was not real.....but then she moved!! she had four tiny little eggs beneath her & was obviously quite used to people gazing in & admiring her. Beautiful, but so absolutely bizarre!

Today I have been cooking, following a meeting about a fun-day we are hosting here in Perry Common on Saturday _ I'm stewarding!

Here are my efforts.......by the way......I don't cook!! so this is unusual for me!!

I'm quite pleased with those! 4 individuals for tea & a veggie one for another time.....even though my crew probably won't touch that one since it's poisonous - vegetables & all!

Caught in the act.......

2009-05-31T21:55:00.005+01:00

This last week the small folk have been on half term. It was my son's birthday & as part of his treat I booked him a PGL break. He loved it & came back exhausted......meanwhile I took the girls to my parents for a break.

What did we do? Well, like girls do.......we shopped! but it was almost entirely bargain hunting in the charity shops! The girls loved it! They bought some bits & bobs....scarves, waistcoat.....& a book or two...

I got a wool/cashmere jacket - for felting of course! Some lovely silk scarves......& vintage collar....& some books....

I bought this sweet little clock for my work area from a 'real' shop though :)As well as being a lovely week searching around the charity shops, I had a bizarre experience. Before I left for my parents I had a dream. ... well more of a flash image as I was drifting off to sleep. I felt I needed to sketch it down. When at my parents browsing the magazines in a shop I opened a Craft magazine at a page with a sculpture bizarrely similar to the image I 'saw' except my in my image there were no heads, nor arms, just empty dresses with legs.....

Strange!

Since we've been back home, I've been loving my plants, which I'm very proud of, since my fingers aren't green! I have lettuces, tomatoes, lemon coriander, peppers, sprouts & lots of lovely edible flower plants that I've grown from seed! Go me!!

and so, after such an exhausting time.......here I am.......caught in the act!