Candice Herne

Candice Herne Art is on Facebook

2012-02-09T14:03:00.000-08:00

Pink Apple Blossom, Acrylic on artist cotton handmade paper, Candice Herne 2011

Candice Herne Art is now on facebook. I warmly invite you to connect with me here. I use facebook to share information that I find about art. I am always looking for inspiration, tips and tricks and I enjoy sharing what I find, so it may help other artists. So like me on my page. I will also be letting you all know a little bit more about my artwork, what inspires me and what gets me fired up in the morning. I would like to use facebook as a gateway to connecting with other artists, the general public, collectors, curators, dealers, designers, community workers/organisations, business and anyone who maybe interested in art or my work. I am also interested in selling some of my artwork through facebook. And offering my collectors some original artworks. Including at times some creative giveaways. So if this sounds interesting to you, I welcome you to check out my page and connect with me by clicking the like button. Thank you and see you on facebook. Candyxx

you can click on this to take you straight to my page

Teenage Portrait

2012-01-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Kai Lilly the teenage years

digital photograph, © Candice Herne, 2011

My niece Kai in my Studio 2011. Slowly getting back into work. One more week till school starts. That has come around way to quick. I have totally enjoyed these holidays. We have spent most of the time at the beach and hanging out at home. I have a couple of small projects lined up this year. I'll post more about this next post. till then Candyxx

Underwater Photography

2012-01-01T15:59:00.000-08:00

Wishing you friendship and joy for 2012

2011-12-29T22:56:00.000-08:00

photograph by Candice Herne 2011

Handmade wrapping paper for Christmas

2011-12-20T02:36:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights this year was helping Rhody with his wrapping paper project. He thoroughly enjoyed creating painterly printed paper in the studio and of course having Mummy's undivided attention. Not only did he enjoy making the paper. But he also had wonderful times at both the Montville Market and the Heavenly Harvest Market were he regularly sold his handmade wrapping paper. Rhody made friends with the Juice lady Sue at the Heavenly Harvest Market. You would find Rhody at every market busily making fabulous experimental Juices side by side with Sue.

At our local Montville market where it all started in the Young Entrepreneurs Corner Rhody made friends with the local children and contributed as a member of a community. He made sure he tipped the musician's, selected seedlings for the vegetable garden; played the hall Piano, made arts and crafts with his friends, worked on the school's stall, ate lots of barbeque breakfasts, pancakes and drank litres of fruit and ginger juice. He learnt how to Juggle, was interviewed by Alistair Mcleod for a Queensland TV show. And survived 6am starts in sometimes cyclonic weather (and I never heard a moan, I might add.) Yes! he loved it all! We always spent way more than we ever earned but we and he gained so much more from the experience than we could possibly have imagined. I am not sure what we may do next year. However when I asked Rhody if he wanted to do his wrapping paper again next year he said Yes without any hesitation. He is in year 2 next year, so if we go ahead I think I will introduce accounting into the process. That will be interesting. We always get lots of feedback from our loyal customers saying their friends loved the paper their present was wrapped in and most would say that they framed it. One person even used it as a table runner. Creative!

So I'll leave you here and wish you all very happy Holidays a safe and joyous festive season and see U in the new year. Candyxx

Christmas Tree decorations made from Newspaper

2011-12-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas is my favourite time of year. I relish in making, baking, giving and receiving. I have a tradition that every year I make some handmade Tree decorations. This year I made some out of newspaper. Origami cranes, rolls covered in red cotton, layered lantern balls and words. I'm off this evening to a very special champagne celebration. By myself with out the children. I think I may let my hair out a little. It's been a busy, fun, successful year full of creativity. See U soon. Candyxx

Opening of Summer with Angels in Brisbane Exhibition St Mary's Kangaroo Point

2011-12-14T23:32:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Exhibition flowers by Nadine Sawyer.

The Angels in Brisbane was a great night filled with Summer colour, champagne and shopping. All the artists sold well and I am delighted and pleased to have now sold all the Pinatas. Many thanks goes to the Co-ordinater Alexandra Ranken, and to Nadine Sawyer my fellow artist friend and college for her unwavering support.

Amidst all the celebrations I forgot to take photographs so I have borrowed these ones from Nadine Sawyer and Alexandra Ranken.

Nadine Sawyer and I on Opening night.

Community Arts Project - limited edition poster

2011-11-27T19:58:00.001-08:00

School, Pinata fish, Community Arts Projects, limited edition poster, 25cmx37.5cm $25 & 50cmx75cm $55 including postage, Candice Herne 2011

I'm nearly ready for the Angels in Brisbane exhibition this friday night. I decided to ditch my profile idea. Instead I have designed a poster and card, which I pick up on Thursday Fun fun fun! This collectible fun Pop Art inspired Poster is available in 2 sizes:

25cm x 37.5cm @$25 including postage
and
50cm x 75cm @ $55 including postage

for enquiries please email: candy@candiceherne.com

Please click here to see the history and story behind these characters.

Also I am busily preparing for Christmas my favourite time of the year. Can't wait to show you the beautiful handmade tree decorations I have made this year out of newspaper. see u soon
Candyxx

Pinata Fish Profile - Jimminey Mapleton

2011-11-17T12:15:00.001-08:00

Pinata Fish Profiles - the Twins

2011-11-17T02:35:00.001-08:00

Angels in Brisbane- art exhibition

2011-11-16T21:41:00.001-08:00

The pinata fish and I are heading to Kangaroo Point for a fun one night fun fundraising show.

Everyone is welcome

Angels in Brisbane

Friday 2nd December 2011

Saint Mary’s Anglican Church - In the Historic Church Hall

455 Main Street, Kangaroo Point, Brisbane.

6pm - 9pm

Tickets are $30 which includes Champagne, scrumptious Tapas and Sushi with the Artists

Phone: Alexandra: 3399 9029 aranken@hotmail.com

For this special evening I am extending my little school of fish installation and giving them each profiles. Over the next 2 weeks I will be posting their profiles on my blog. Please join me and have a laugh!

Introducing Gizmo Marrieot and Pandora Crochet

Candyxx

Mamas in the hood

2011-11-10T13:15:00.001-08:00

Dear Bloggers this is where I have been over the last few months preparing, organising and making for 'Mamas in the hood' exhibited at Pine Rivers Art Gallery October 5th - November 5th 2011.

The show is over now. However alot of the work exhibited was installation work, so I had to wait for my work to be installed before photographing. And with all my other committments and workshops this has been the only available time that I have had to post any photographs of the event. So please sit back and let me take you through 'Mamas in the hood'.

photograph by Mari Hirata

Mamas in the hood (please go here to see essay for 'Mamas in the hood' by Helen Sturgess MVA)

This exhibition examines the contrasting roles of mother and artist; challenging cultural values that keep mothers and their art hidden and 'chained to the kitchen'.
'Mamas in the Hood' is an analysis and a celebration of a mother’s role; how it relates to contemporary society, the challenges, identities, memories and stories it creates.

Four artists have united to present works ranging from craft to new media.

Candice Herne’s piñata installation, and butterfly cutouts explore ideas of collaboration and connection within the family and the community.

Sandra Landolt's moving objects stand as metaphors for change and for her experiences of living away from her family and her Swiss upbringing.

Katrina Stirling illustrates personal journeys, memories and stories onto rusted bed sheets.

Chrys Zantis plays with the computer generation; displaying luscious, playful and feminine knitted and crochet objects.

"Functioning on different levels as a partner, mother and staying true to yourself is a real challenge" – Sandra Landolt.

photograph by Nadine Sawyer

School

A collaboration by Candice Herne with family, friends, community and the mothers and children of Montville and the Blackall Range. Papier mâché fish pinatas, tissue paper, pom poms.
This installation is a community arts project. A grass roots project collaborating with members of my community who do not usually engage in the arts.

As an artist and mother with my first child starting school in a new community, I created this project to connect with other mothers and children and to create opportunities for expression, participation and exchange. Workshops were set up as one on one, group participation and community participation.

This installation can be read in two parts:

1. Processes of Development: The stories and conversations, shared and exchanged. In this work I have illustrated the process as ‘sediment’ - the stuff that settles on the bottom of the ocean. While the process is rarely seen as beautiful or important, it is however the very work that makes connections; the stories told, the tears and laughter. Invisible entities that are left to dissolve into the atmosphere, float along with the breeze or sink to the bottom of the ocean long after the work is complete.

2. Final Product: The result; the object; the fish piñata. A symbol of motherhood, children, life, creativity, beauty, fun, resilience, community and friendship.

Thank you to my family, friends and the mothers and students of Montville and the Blackall Range.

photograph by Candice Herne

The above image and the following images are of the bottom of the fish sea 'sediment'. Have your Say. Viewers were asked to write their thoughts on Motherhood and throw them in the sea.

photograph by Candice Herne

photograph by Candice Herne

From the Cocoon

A collaboration by Candice Herne and her son Rhody Nash. Mono printing techniques using paint onto cut out butterfly cards.

Butterflies are symbols of freedom and beauty. From the cocoon or from the womb. The birth of life is an awakening. Children create opportunity for elders to learn and connect in a new world with a sense of freedom and wonder. Representing a second chance at seeing, feeling and experiencing.

Initiated by Rhody, the butterfly card project is a creative way to connect as mother and son. The project is exhibited in galleries, markets and festivals in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

Life after death, is the butterfly. Candice Herne

Opening night celebration

photograph by Rachael Lee

Opening night from left to right: artist Chrys Zantis, Seal Chong Wah (Burlesque dancer) who performed a saucy dance on the night. Artist Katrina Stirling (with glass in hand), artist Candice Herne. Bottom right: Guest Speaker artist Anita West who shared her experience of being being both mother and artist and artist Sandra Landolt and her daughter Luca Milena.

photograph by Rachael Lee

Mums and Bubs workshop with Candice Herne

photographs by Candice Herne

'Mamas in the hood' held a special screening event of the film Who Does She Think She Is? It also played continuously for the entire month. Small groups came in to watch the film.

Collaboration, Candice Herne, Sandra Landolt, Katrina Stirling and Chrys Zantis, self help book sculpture

photographs by Candice Herne

I hope you all have enjoyed the journey as much as I have. See you soon. Candyxx

Chrys Zantis' response to the Australian National Cultural Policy - Arts, Culture and Creativity, October 2011

2011-10-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

I am Visual Artist and a Community Arts Practitioner. It is important that funding for grants, mentoring and support be available to artists whatever their medium. It is important to support artists at all stages of their development. This will allow them to reach their excellence in knowledge, skill and creative thinking that our nation has in its sights.

Artists are the society’s mirror, commentators, advocates, cultural monitors and enlightener. Not everyone is an artist or can be an artist. One can be literate in the Arts through the improvement and development of educational programs. Then some enlightenment can result by establishing a deeper understanding of Australian culture through the Arts.

What makes an artist is elusive and if found and fostered by like minded creative people two rewards stand to be gained. The first is economic and the Second is culturally enrichment. By supporting artists, galleries, art institutions and out of the box art initiatives that allow Australian artists to show case their work here and overseas, we are adding to the economy and the culture and heritage of this nation.

I was an Artist- in- Resident in a State Primary School for over 10 years. I am fortunate enough to still come in contact with some of the children I mentored in Visual Art. 8 year old children that had a talent and a deep sensitivity to the Visual Arts, told me they were going to be artists when they grew up. Those children were true to their word. To be frank and honest without the school’s progressive principal supporting the Arts at the time I doubt it would have been such an easy transition and positive experience for those children who now as young adults became graphic designers, architects and visual artists. I saw what the Visual Arts can do for self esteem; mental health; self expression and understanding one’s own culture and other cultures. Therefore I am an advocate for the teaching and appreciation of the Arts in schools.

Community arts is an area where if fostered, as in schools, genius can shine through. There is a need to see that Arts projects can come from the grass root level. Constituents need not be marginalised to benefit from community arts. For example I started a community knitting art project called Landscape of Resilience. This project made positive impact on all participants and was open to everyone. I want to reiterate, I am a single artist with a vision and a following.

Chrys Zantis, Visual Artist and Community Arts Practictioner

You can read more about Chrys Zantis here
The Australian Governments National Cultural Policy can be read here

Essay by Helen Sturgess (MVA) - for Mamas in the hood, Pine Rivers Art Gallery Queensland Australia, Oct 5th - Nov 5th, 2011

2011-10-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

Throughout the history of art, I would hazard a guess, artists-who-are-mothers have struggled with ambivalent feelings, both their own and those of the society in which they live, regarding their combination of these two disparate roles. Most notably disparate in that ‘serious’ artistic practice is traditionally seen as requiring a ferocious single point of concentration … the artist secluded in his lonely garret … whereas the demands of mothering afford a very different kind of time, a patchwork of moments. The artist/mother must develop what NZ installation artist Frances Joseph has aptly termed a ‘language of interruption’.

As we learn and develop through our experiences, it’s not surprising that for many artist/mothers aspects of their mothering, to a greater or lesser extent, find their way into their artwork. This can result from conscious decision – for example Mierle Laderman Ukeles, having been told in the late 1960s by her art school mentor that her pregnancy would naturally preclude a career as an artist, set out to use her maternal work as the basis for her artistic practice. It can also happen more subtly, subversively – as playground swings, for example, have insinuated their way into my own work, despite my initial desire to keep ‘mothering’ and ‘art’ separate. (In the words of poet Adrienne Rich, when asked why she hadn’t written poetry about her children, “poetry was where I lived as no-one’s mother, where I existed as myself.”)

Ukeles, along with her contemporary Mary Kelly (with her Post-Partum Document), was fighting an uphill battle, and one that is still being waged. ‘Taking time out’ to bear and nurture children precludes many women from serious consideration as artists, and from access to the limited assistance available to ‘emerging’ artists here in Australia and elsewhere.

However, in the current theoretical climate, as art becomes increasingly understood as a catalytic element in human relations, the primacy, the ‘urgency’ of the mother/child relationship surely renders it not only a relevant, but an essential subject for artistic investigation.

In this exhibition four artists explore the intersections between these two aspects of their own lives. In doing so, whilst investigating the myriad and varied ways in which individual mothers experience this overlap, they don’t shy away from the dark side of these stories, the stresses and strains, resentments and exhaustions, pushes and pulls that often characterise the life of the mother. Landolt’s ‘moving objects’, although at initial glance quirky and fun, can also appear both strangely stoic and, in their repeated jerky movements, disturbingly depersonalised, reminiscent of the human mind and body responding to intolerable stress. They counterbalance the stillness of Stirling’s movingly elegiac bundles, each unwrapped and worked upon, stitched, as if in an attempt to ‘mend’ a sad event. Meanwhile Herne’s eclectic collaborative work, complete with fish piñatas, again seems at first glance relatively naïve and playful, bringing to mind the joy and energy of children’s parties; yet the implicit violence, resulting in the splitting open of these strong yet fragile vessels, adds a layer of tension and fear beneath the surface of the work, a tension heightened further by Zantis’ obsessively intricate, sexually suggestive, slightly disturbing three-dimensional collages in cloying baby pink.

Helen Sturgess, MVA (Sculpture, Performance and Installation)

Helen's master thesis: Towards a Language of Interruption: an attempt to articulate and document the experience of being both a mother and an artist . Published as a book and can be bought here.

Helen Sturgess - Wall (II) 2007- video installation

This looped video projected against a white wall might initially appear to be a repetition of one crash of the swing. Prolonged viewing, however, reveals a subtle chronological narrative. The swing hangs motionless, a shadow alone suggesting the proximity of an otherwise indiscernible wall. Suddenly the swing crashes against this wall, its impact violently demonstrating the wall's physicality and limiting presence. As one crash follows another the wall becomes subtly more tangible, as the swing's rubber seat marks it, creating a pattern of abuse. Eventually the swing dissolves, leaving only the marks it has made on the wall. These marks then also disappear. After some time the swing and pristine wall reappear, and the process begins again.

I Surrender - kitchen diary 'continued'

2011-06-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

everything is beauty

I Surrender- the kitchen diary

2011-06-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

to see clearly please click on image

Getting ready for the Home Festival

2011-06-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

This week Rhody and I are in the studio in production mode

Rhody applies the paint to the sealed table top.

Lot's of colour and a spray of water

Then a bit of a play around with a sponge

A few more squirts of paint on top of the sponged paint

then the paint brush orchestra begins. In the end I come along and put a large piece of paper over the top and take a print of the work. Rhody is very excited to be invited to set up shop this weekend at the Home Festival at Kangaroo Point. This Sunday 19th June 11am-8pm. Pop in and see

us if you come along, we would love to see u.

Candyxx

Beautiful Butterflys land at Heavenly Harvest Market Brisbane

2011-06-07T20:47:00.000-07:00

New product to Rhody's Wrapping Paper are these beautiful butterfly cards. Hand printed using the same creative Monotype printing process by hand, using paint and a touch of sparkly glitter. And each card has it's own hand printed envelope.

Last weekend Rhody's wrapping paper was invited to the Heavenly Harvest Market.

On the cliffs of Kangaroo Point. Behind Saint Mary's Church, overlooking the beautiful Brisbane River and City.

We will be at the Heavenly Harvest Market again Saturday, July 2nd, 7.00am-12.00pm. Hope to see you there. Candyxx

Joy in the garden

2011-05-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

The weather here is superb! I have been spending hours in the garden picking flowers and making arrangements and giving them away! All the Camellia's are in full bloom which makes for a magical sight! Suki turned 3 and we have been fighting Flu's.

Rumblings! of an artist

2011-05-01T18:18:00.000-07:00

I feel I have been to measured and concerned lately with correct grammar,spelling and consistency. You know those things which show worth and maintenance, professionalism, discipline, and self control. While these behaviours are beneficial in every aspect of life. They keep you accountable and on your path. Create a gentle flow and help you avoid the roller coaster syndrome of the half arsed, panic what the fuck am I doing noise in your head. To be honest I feel I spend most of my waking life in this measured,diplomatic state. And I say this as an artist. As I feel the business side of my art is my measured, controlled side. The state I am in 99 percent of the time. It is difficult to instantly come out of that state of mind,with lunches to pack, and houses to clean.Precious amazing little people to nurture and attend to. I have responsibilities you know. It occurs to me more and more, how as humans how we are boxing and isolating ourselves in. We do it all ourselves and we can, and we do.

However the irony is that nobody can achieve anything alone. What about all those people who showed you how to do it all yourself. And now you can do it all yourself. What then? Are we still aiming for then end goal to earn a living from our art. Are we now making it even harder for ourselves by learning how do it ourselves, then do it ourselves and then keep maintaining that persona. Or do we forget all about the DIY how to be an artist today and start knocking on doors, (which is a psychological hurdle in itself) and will that help?Just because your work is in art galleries doesn't mean it will sell. Maybe on ebay or etsy. Will that contribute to my grand vision of the world and will I make money. Is it money I am really worried about or pretending I fit in with a certain niche. I wonder sometimes if DIY is just not another psychological deviation society has allowed us to foster. Another tool for us procrastinate on to keep us feeling safe and from the criticism of others. After all when we do it ourselves rarely do we have someone looking over our shoulder saying I'm not so sure about that. I don't think that is going to work. Contributing to someone Else's vision. Is that such a bad thing. Feeling like you have sold out to the pomp and glory. I'm an artist I have my own vision of the world. I have a point to make and I am going to show you even if I die trying. Is DIY not just another creative tool to create vision. What to do with all this DIY.

Once upon a time artist had no control over their artwork. They were primarily concerned with making art. And relied on dealers collectors and philanthropists to promote, support and patron their existence. They were at their mercy. These days the latter still exists and I think will always have a place in art. Even though we are all out their DIYing. In fact when the world is in turmoil and governments crack down on spending arts is usually the first branch to be cut. God only knows why. Art has all the answers, artists know that.The rest of world is still to catch on. So to keep the art wheels moving it is the dealers collectors and philanthropists that have always sustained the arts. Like me you may have never felt the generous offering of well to do benefactor. And most of us won't in our life times. But I some how romantically believe that their generous offerings and support flow through the system which keeps art at the very least in the subconscious of peoples thoughts.

I'll continue to DIY, but I now no. I really want to spend 50% of my time in the studio. .The side that take risks,challenges life, and that is not concerned with political correctness, spelling and grammar.And the other 50% organising adventurous family travels where we together experience and contribute to living.And lustful romantic breaks with my husband. After all he is my life partner. I really need to look after him a whole lot better than I have been. I don't want to be writing grants, updating facebook and my blog. I want someone else to do all that. Wouldn't that be nice! I had better get back to the DIY then hadn't I. :)

Candyxx 'there was movement at the station'

Dragonfly photographs at home

2011-04-18T23:02:00.000-07:00

There are so many animals where I live 100's of different kinds of Moths. 1.5metre Goanna's. Wallabies, Bush Turkey's, Bush rats, Foxes, Hawks, frogs and lots of Spiders. Not everyones idea of Paradise. You'll find me most days photographing something.

Yesterday it was these mating Dragonflys. Dragonfly's live for just over 12 months. We only see
them for about 2 months in their Adult form as we see them here, before they die. The heart position they are in is called the wheel position (even Dragonfly's have position names)

I followed these 2 around for about 10minutes. They flew around connected like this for at lease 20minutes. As they landed I managed to get very close to them to photograph them. They seemed oblivious to my presence. The male will stay connected to the female until she lays her eggs and in some cases just so she will not mate again. Poor girl she only has a 2 month window.

Rhody's Wrapping Paper goes to Market

2011-04-15T03:31:00.000-07:00

Rhody with a bundle of his monotype printed wrapping paper

Creative monotype Printmaking without a Press using paint made into wrapping paper handmade by Rhody

Rhody set up his stall and took this picture

Rhody's friends came and supported him at his grand stall opening. Sales were very good on the opening day. There was a run of customers at one stage. I was standing back in absolute awe watching the children interact with each other and the customers. One was looking after the customers, another sorting change and another stocking the table with new rolls of wrapping paper. I consciously kept my distance. They new where I was if they needed help. It was so heart warming watching the children instantly take on roles and sorting it all out themselves, creating synergy and team work. The children are only 6 years old. I want to sincerely thank Judith Sinnamon the Montville Market Organiser, and all of the people that help put the Market together every month. Also thanks to Deb for the yummy savoury polenta pancakes and all the people who bought Rhody's paper. Rhody said he liked 'doing the money'. Rhody is not very clear about currency denominations. However with the help from the customers and his friends he is working it out. I supported and encouraged Rhody in this little project as I thought it was a fun way for him to fully engage and realise his creativity. And a practical way to build self awareness, inner confidence, organisation and communication skills.

Montville market is on the second Saturday of each month. Hope to see you there sometime. Candyxx

Ephemeral Art

2011-04-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

Little China Shoe, Australian Animal tooth sculpture, photography © Candice Herne, 2011

Funny Bone, Australian Animal bone sculpture, photography © Candice Herne, 2011

Key to my heart, Australian Animal bone sculpture, photography © Candice Herne, 2011

I have a strong and natural attraction for materials and objects that are found in nature. Feathers, leaves, bark, wood, bones, shells, flowers and seeds.

While walking around the over grown orchard at the front of our property. I came across a animal skeleton about 50 cm long and 20cm high. The skeleton was clean. No hair or carcass. It had been there for awhile. I didn't recognise the animal. The children and I picked up the bones, took them home and bleached them.

Ephemera-Lasting one day, transitory, existing only briefly. Ephemera is used to describe objects found in nature, although it can describe a wide range of things. Some may argue that everything is ephemeral. Nothing lasts forever. Globally we are experiencing that very idea that nothing lasts forever. Towns and Cities are being destroyed, environments stripped of life.

I see such wisdom, power and beauty in nature. A natural order, pattern, energy and flow exists.

I recently started a yoga class where the teacher had a strand of black mangrove seeds threaded into a necklace. I instantly admired the strand 'this is beautiful' I said, 'I am always looking for these seeds when I go to the beach, they are like finding gold!' We both laughed, 'yes gold', the teacher said. I found someone who knew exactly what I am talking about. We both discussed the delight in finding these black seeds. 'I have them all', she said. I found them at Mudjimba Beach, but they have now moved to Cotton Tree. I was transported immediately in the idea of moving tides, and black gold being washed onto the shore. I wonder where they will go next? I am promised a mangrove seed everytime I attend her Yoga class, definately a huge incentive!

Nature is tangible, visual, tactile and interactive. I can see it, hear it, smell it and experience it. There is practical truth about life and death. Ecosystems identifying that everything depends on something to survive, creating the world we live in. Nothing is isolated, or individualized. Nature is the sum of all its parts. Built on relationships.

By way of making art from natural materials I think about giving life. Like giving the material or object a second life. Recycling material that naturally exists to create something else. Using something that already holds power and beauty just by being itself. Candyxx

Going with the flow

2011-03-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

Coptic Binding photographed by Candice Herne

The end of March. The year is whizzing by. The last 3 weeks have been jam packed with out of town visitors. Including the lovely Sophie Munns from Brisbane. Sophie and I caught up for a chat and a quick studio tour. It was lovely to see Sophie! I was also invited to the beautiful Rusty Roo for a social art weekend. Thanks Sharon! I had such a wonderful time.I attempted to teach myself how to Coptic bind artist books. I got impatient and ditched the instructions and went with a Candy bind. I really would love to do a artist book workshop. I enjoy workshops, I find I enjoy the teachings and learning and enjoy the hands on interactive process. And you can ask for assistance when you get lost.

I have been watching lots of printing video's on You Tube, while these are really inspiring, and great research material. There is nothing like the hands on. And you usually meet people who are interested in the same things you are interested in.

Last Thursday night my framed photographs 'On a clear day I can see god I II III' were exhibited at the Treading Water Brisbane Flood Fundraising Event. I donated one framed photograph valued at $1200 to raise money for the Queensland Premier 's Disaster Relief Appeal.

The creativity has been flowing here at the Candice Herne Studio. Next post I will share with you the start of my creative journey and spend the next few posts showing you different parts of it. There is also a invitation to exhibit in Brisbane early October. And my son Rhody has been productively making monotype wrapping paper. Rhody also designed the packaging and label and has been invited to set up a stall in the 'Entrpreneurs corner' at the local Montville Markets. Can't wait for that one :)! till next post. Candyxx

Artist Lunch and Open Studio

2011-03-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

On Monday I had a Open Studio day and a Artist Lunch. Artist Rachael Lee from Brisbane organised for her and 6 of our art friends to visit my studio in Montville.

I set up on the deck outside and planned a Barbeque of marinated chicken breast, roast Potatoes, brown rice salad, and Garden Salad. My friend Laina made a special Gluten free Coconut cake and the girls brought, homemade biscuits and muffins, Rachael didn't forget the chocolate Sandra brought a dozen fresh eggs from her little hens at home and some of the other girls brought lovely bottles of wine and I even got flowers from Anita. SPOILT!

The wonderful Artist's that came from left and clockwise, Lorraine Emerson, Nadine Sawyer, Anita West, Rachael Lee, Sandra Landolt, Baby Luca, Uta Heideluaf, Chyrs Zantis, Corrine Colombo and my daughter Suki at the front of the Table

We had a look through my studio

My studio: Small Ochre paintings clipped onto dried vine

I took the girls for a walk through the rainforest on the property. Here is Anita and Rachael walking down the driveway.

Our first stop was to see the dam which has a cute bridge and flowering water Lilly's.

I then took them over to see the magnificent flowering pink tree. This is Corrine coming back from the Pink Tree.

Pink Tree

And here is Nadine walking down the drive way towards the Bamboo Arch.

Thanks Girls! for a lovely day. It was so lovely to see you all again. And a big thankyou to Rachael Lee for organising the day. Rachael suggested that I put the recipe for my Brown Rice Salad on my blog because it's so yummy. This is a 'hand me down' recipe I got through a friend of a friend in Sydney. Our friends own the famous Curly's on the Corner in North Curl Curl, Sydney, it is very popular with the locals. They sell this amazing salad (Brown Rice Salad) which their friend makes. It is one of my absolute favourites.

Brown Rice Salad

Cook a pot of Brown Rice

wash it 3 times in cold water after it has been cooked

add to the rice

a big bunch of finely chopped parsley

1 cup of finely crushed almonds ( crunchy bits, not powder)

then drizzle a dressing made of half half soys sauce and half sesame oil over the rice

mix it all together WaLa! delicious!

Go Gently

2011-03-04T05:21:00.000-08:00

photographed by Candice Herne 2011

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather 7 & 8 THE END

2011-03-01T00:21:00.000-08:00

Feather VII, pencil and biro on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

Feather VIII, pencil on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

I threw in an extra drawing while I was in the heat of the moment. I have not drawn in years. Actually I don't really like drawing that much. I don't know if I will ever do anymore of these. However when my Natropath asked me to keep a Journal while I change the way I eat. Unconsciously I looked at my feather collection and wanted to see if I could draw my feathers. He said when you feel angry, frustrated, sad etc, go to your journal and do something. You may say how does this all relate. Well like most of my work. Who knows I just go with the flow and somewhere down the track it all starts to make sense. But at the moment I'm not making any sense. You see that's just how it goes for me. Till next Blog post. Candy xx I have my Gallery all set up and can't wait to show you how it all looks. I've even had my first Open Studio visit. exciting times!!

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather 6

2011-02-27T19:46:00.000-08:00

Feather VI, pencil and biro on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather 5

2011-02-26T20:07:00.000-08:00

Feather V, pencil and biro on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather 4

2011-02-25T19:38:00.000-08:00

Feather IV, pencil and biro on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather 3

2011-02-24T18:28:00.000-08:00

Feather III, pencil on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather 2

2011-02-23T20:04:00.000-08:00

Feather II, pencil on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

Drawing Feathers for a week - Feather I

2011-02-22T19:31:00.000-08:00

Feather 1, pencil on handmade cotton artist quality paper, 21.5cm x 15.5cm © Candice Herne, 2011

This week I have set myself a little project. To draw one feather a day, for the entire week. I just adore light, whimsy feathers. When I see one on the ground I pick it up and put it my pocket. I have quite a collection. I have them all over the house, sticking out of drift wood and poping out of containers. I think to myself everytime I find a feather, it is a message from the universe. Telling me that it is listening. It reminds me to be thankful for my health, my families health, the blessings of my children and the inspiring, kind and wonderful people in my life. Though it may have just fallen off a bird that just flew by. It's my way of reminding myself that I am fortunate in so many ways. So join me this week as I count my blessing and draw a feather everyday for a week.

End Detention of Children

2011-02-16T20:04:00.000-08:00

'Sign of the Times', Mosaic tiles on board, Helen Wallace, 2002, photographed by Candice Herne, 2011

I am so sad. See the date on this artwork.We haven't come very far have we. I bought this artwork at a Student Exhibition at the Brisbane Institute of Art where I was an Art Student, in 2002. Now it's rearing it's ugly head again. How hard is it. Don't put children in Detention. Most of these children have gone through enough trauma coming to the lucky country. When will humanity take over, it is not OK to let these children wither away in isolation, dispair, fear, pain and terror, no matter where they come from, no matter what their circumstances. I'm ashamed to be Australian or even part of the human race when I hear what decisions Adult's make for innocent, vulnerable children, in the Western World.

Limited Edition, original watercolour artwork for sale

2011-02-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Sunrise I, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

If you haven't seen the nice day! exhibition at Logan Art Gallery. It is on for 1 more week till Saturday, 19th February.In conjunction with the last week of exhibition I am offering these limited edition, one off sunrise, sunset and dusk watercolour postcard paintings for:

Aus $45 each

or
the 9 for Aus $360.
(please get in touch with me a.s.a.p if you would like the 9 paintings)

This is a affordable way to get into the art market and start your art collection of original work. The 9 works would look beautiful framed individually or together as a collection.
I have never sold anything online before, as I have always hesitated. I have bought lots of things on line, however when it comes to the idea of selling, I'm very shy. As an artist and entrepreneur I struggle to get over the selling of my art. Most artist's I know, are not good at it. Which is why they are represented by galleries. Alas even if your work is in a gallery that still does not mean your work sells. So as a start I'll be selling my work on line, until every gallery wants my work and it's worth 1000's. My online prices will be cheaper than Gallery prices as their are no overheads and commission to be paid due to all their time and marketing.

If you would like to purchase a limited edition, water colour, painting for $45 and/or the 9 for $360. Please contact me via the blog, facebook or email me candy@candiceherne.com
and/or you can phone me on
mb: 0422 976 613

best regards

Candyxx

Sunrise II, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Sunrise III, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Dusk I, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Dusk II, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Dusk IV, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Sunset II, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Sunset III, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Sunset IV, Watercolour postcard, 10cm x 15cm © Candice Herne, 2010

Installation at Bunya Dreaming Baroon Pocket Dam, Maleny

2011-02-10T03:08:00.000-08:00

Bunya Dreaming-Love Letters to the Universe, Installation Baroon Pocket Dam Maleny, bark, coconut husk, grass and sticks, Candice Herne 2011

I was invited to the Bunya Dreaming by a friend who recieved a message stick. A message stick (commonly called letters) is a form of communication traditionally used by Indigenous Australians. It is usually a solid piece of wood, around 20–30cm in length, etched with angular lines and dots. Traditionally, message sticks were passed between different clans and language groups to establish information and transmit messages. They were often used to invite neighbouring groups to corroborees, set-fights and ball games.

The festival was held on the banks of Baroon Pocket dam in Maleny. The Bunya Dreaming is a chance to hear the stories, reflect on the connection of people to the land and have a bit of fun. For thousands of years, Aboriginal people used to come from far away to gather at Baroon Pocket from December to March. These gatherings were a celebration of Aboriginal culture with politics, sports, justice, dissemination of information, marital arrangements and other social activities taking place. The Bunya tree was so special to the people that there were laws that precluded people harming it in any way. The festival shows that the tree is more than just an icon, it generates understanding of Aboriginal culture, provides a forum for networking and information sharing, and strengthens community partnerships. Beverley Hand, Bunya Dreaming Coordinator

I had such a fantastic time! Thankyou!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bunya Dreaming, Baroon Pocket Dam, Maleny 2011

showing 2 installations made on the banks

Rhody helped Kim and Christine from Art4place make their Eagle

Burning of the Wishing Tree

2011-02-05T17:05:00.000-08:00

remember this Love Letters to the Universe - the wishing tree

I hadn't got around to burning my love letters for the new Year instead I went to Woodford Folk festival and partied to the wee hours of the morning, So last weekend with some friends I sacrificed my wishing tree, letting go all of my wishes for 2011.

and the WINNER is......................

2011-01-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

ROBYN

from Mind Scene blog - Fragments, Treasures and Memories

Congratulations Robyn!!!

a BIG thank you to those people who entered the nice day! Grand Opening Giveaway. I must pop over to Robyn's blog now to let her know and ask her to email me her postal address so I can get her prize to her in the mail.

The nice day! exhibition is open now till February 19th 2011

The 3 photographs of God

2011-01-24T16:36:00.000-08:00

'On a clear day I can see God I,II,III' archival printed and framed digital photographs © Candice Herne 2010. $1200 each

To purchase my artwork please contact Logan Art Gallery (07) 3412 5519

Read all about how nice day! developed

2011-01-22T17:41:00.000-08:00

The winner of the nice day! Grand Opening Giveaway will also recieve a nice day! catalogue click here to enter (signed of course)

'please click on the image to read the full essay'

Opening night for nice day!

2011-01-19T21:58:00.000-08:00

Curator for Logan Art Gallery Annette Turner

Guest Speaker and Official Opener Artist Lyndal Hargrave

Left to right Artists Sandra Landolt, Jen Conde, Nicola Moss, Susan Buret, Uta Heidelauf and Candice Herne

left to right Artists Racheal Lee Candice Herne and Anita West

I would personally like to thank Logan Art Gallery and Nicola Moss and Susan Buret for their commitment and organisation of the nice day! exhibition. Your efforts are much appreciated! Candyxx

nice day! is open till 19 February

to be in the running for 3 limited edition water colour postcards please click here

nice day! Grand Opening Giveaway

2011-01-18T03:36:00.000-08:00

please click on the postcard to see details of the Grand Opening Giveaway

Sunrise IV, Sunset I, Dusk III, Daley Rowney watercolour postcards, © Candice Herne 2010

These 3 postcards have especially been chosen for the winner, from a limited edition of 12 (4 sunrise paintings, 4 sunset paintings and 4 Dusk paintings)

The 3 hand water coloured postcards are separated by tissue paper and wrapped in a custom made origami envelope made from beautiful cotton artist's paper from Tasmaina's Creative Paper. The origami envelope is secured with a white ribbon. It will be packaged in a ready to send post office bag and can be shipped anywhere in the world so please leave a comment and be in the running for these limited edition, postcard, watercolour paintings.

I will look forward to hearing from you

Good luck Candyxx

Getting God to the Gallery for a Nice Day

2011-01-16T13:33:00.000-08:00

left artwork by Jen Conde

right artwork by Susan Buret and Uta Heidelauf

left artwork by Candice Herne, right artwork by Nicola Moss and Uta Heidelauf

On a clear day I can see God, I II & III by Candice Herne 2010

artwork by Sandra Landolt

Nice Day! is installed now in the Gallery. This is the first time that I have seen my photographs framed. I had them framed at Doggett St Studio because I wanted conservation framing. Thanks to Scott for squueezing the job in just before Christmas. With all the end of year appointments I had no way of picking the work up or delivering it to the gallery myself. So I used a courier, I rang around different courier companies and they were a little duanted at the idea of picking up artwork that was not packed and delivering it to a Art Gallery. Some couiers even had on their web site no request is to big, so I rang them and it turned out they didn't have blankets or wouldn't get blankets and I couldn't pay by credit card, so I had to wait at least a day before my direct deposit would be cleared. And they weren't cheaper.

Thank goodness I got on to Pack and Send. Adam from Pack and Send (p: 07 38329229) took care of everything and made me feel very confident that the work would be looked after, nothing seemed to be to much trouble. I hinted that blankets would be needed to separate and protect the work he said don't worry we do this for galleries and artists all over Brisbane. It cost me $99 however I figured with petrol and driving once or twice to Brisbane and back to the Sunshine coast and the cost of fuel and the sanity of a 4-5 hour round trip each time pending traffic with 2 delightful children. It was money well spent. I can't wait to see them up close. The show looks great and I am really looking forward to opening night it has been a long time comming and now it's finally here. If anyone is still thinking about comming to the opening night R.S.V.P by emailing Logan Art Gallery artgallery@logan.qld.gov.au

or Phone: 3412 5519 otherwise it's open now till the 19th February

While the city Flooded

2011-01-15T17:24:00.000-08:00

'While the city flooded' typed short story based on True stories from the 2011 New Year Flood Disaster, digital art © Candice Herne 2011

if you would like to read the full text please click on the image twice (click once to open in a new window then when you see the blue +sign click again to enlarge)

Well if you haven't already heard Queensland is in Flood Disaster mode. I am feeling very fortunate and grateful sitting here typing this blog post to you, while others clean up their life. The impact is going to be felt for a very long time and I am reminded of Peter Cosgrove (retired Australian Army officer and Chief of the Defence Force) His sound advice DON"T FORGET. It is a busy week next week for my blog I have pictures to show you of the Nice Day! exhibition all hung in the gallery. Opening Night on Wednesday night. And a very special Grand opening Giveaway to be won. So stay tuned, safe and Donate lots of money to the Flood Appeal.

You are invited to Opening Night

2011-01-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

please click on the image to see all the details for opening night,

I hope to see you there. Candyxx

Logan Art Gallery workshop program

2011-01-10T12:32:00.000-08:00

please click on the images to see all the details of the workshops offered

I am holding a children's workshop

The colours of the wind-coloured PINWHEELS

Thursday, 13th January

10am -noon

ages 5 to 12 years

Please make a booking by calling:

3412 5519

or email

artgallery@logan.qld.gov.au

Logan Art Gallery www.logan.qld.gov.au/artgallery

Subscribe via email

2011-01-05T18:54:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to work out how to get a subscribe via email button on my blog. The one where it lets you put in your email address and all you have to do is click subscribe. WaLa! I've done it, and you can to.Click on this link to Blogger tricks it gives you step by step instructions and it works. ahhh! it's a great day.

Please subscribe to my blog via email for regular updates about what is going on in my studio, in the gallery, in my mind and in my family. I hope this blog post helps other people get that subscription button on their site. Don't wait another day, wondering how to do it. If I have other WaLa moments I'll keep you posted. Candyxx

Now after much debate about the term WaLa (my meaning: look what I have done; achievement, completion) my niece Maddy said it may be Vaula (french), I also vaguely recall magician's using the term. I really have no idea how it is spelt or even if it is a real word. So if their are any word smiths out there who can shed a little light, it would be much appreciated.

Till next week
Candyxx

lOvE LEtTeRS tO ThE uNivErsE

2010-12-29T17:13:00.000-08:00

'love letters to the universe - the wishing tree'

wishing tree in white square bowl - branches from a gum tree and potted into a container, decorated with handwritten wishes for 2011 to be burnt New years Eve 2010

Green painting by Candice Herne 'half finished Pear' cica 2002

Antique chair handed down from grandparents

white wedding underskirt intended for making large lamp shade

Antique table handed down from relatives

brown Hessian Ribbon

Antique Mechanic's tool box

Modern candleabra and scented candles

Suki June

2010 has been a very eventful year.Travelling around Australia in a caravan, finding a new home in a new town, settling down again, and my eldest starting big school.

I am looking forward to a busy and creative 2011 starting with the opening of

Nice Day

completing the Ochre Diary series

spending some quality time in the studio

inviting friends up to our rainforest retreat to stay in the studio

opening the studio to the public 2 times a week

using the space for other creative and artistic activities

and trying to get on top of admin tasks

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU!

see you after Christmas xxoo

2010-12-22T13:53:00.000-08:00

please click on image to recieve my Christmas and Holiday greeting

Ochre Diaries

2010-12-14T22:58:00.000-08:00

whoz land is whoz, ochre and matt varnish on handmade paper 55cm x 45cm © Candice Herne 2010

I finished off this piece today. It had been half finished sitting in the caravan. I'm glad it is finished, the image had been swirling around my head for the last 6 months. We have sold the caravan too, which is great news we put an add on line and in 10 minutes after we finished the online profile someone called us and they bought it. Hooray! Till next week. Candyxx

It's time to grow up

2010-12-10T18:46:00.000-08:00

I don't want to miss a damn thing

It's been a very busy week, my eldest Rhody finished prep yesterday and begins year one next year. The photograph on the left was taken in 2004 of Rod my husband holding Rhody at 2 weeks old and the photograph on the right was taken on Rhody's 6th Birthday this year November 2010. We all know how fast life motors by, however I have really felt it even more since having children. I am sure it is even going to go faster now I have children at school. I tend to live my life like I am on a time limit, like something could happen at any moment to stop my clock. I like this as it continually challenges and pushes me to experience and do things, that are way out of my comfort zone. So you could say most of the time I am scared. Most of the time these challenges are not big things, however very small.

I quietly turned 40 this year. And to be honest it has been the first time that I have really felt my age. Things are starting to head south, my body is changing shape and I can't get away with eating what I used to without consequences. So since settling into our new home I have had to commit to changing my whole lifestyle. Step by step, I have to change. For my own health, and my families. Nothing that a good therapist can't fix.Carry on shopping. till next week Candyxx

Gallery/Art/Space

2010-12-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of the space at the front of the studio, all set out like a gallery space fixed with lights. All this space and so little time, what is an Artist/Mother to do? I gave the walls a fresh coat of paint and now I can't help pinning and bluetacking work in progress to the walls. I'm slowly creeping out of the studio already! Till next week. Candyxx

Art Exhibition Invitation for 2011

2010-12-03T01:00:00.000-08:00

'On a clear day I can see God 1'

Digital Print, archival framed and printed 132cmx85cm © Candice Herne 2010

Artist Statement

After a 18 month photography blitz taking photographs of weather.This work ‘On a clear day I can see god’, presents what is left, the sun rise and sunset a form of ‘energy’ and optical illusion. Light and colour are energy, colour is derived from light. Sunlight, which contains all the wavelengths, consisting of the entire electromagnetic spectrum that we depend on, to exist on this planet.

I came about these ideas by continually reducing my images down to emotions. I would, go out and respond, instinctively and emotionally, purposefully blurring and distorting images, to create movement, space, light and emotion. I committed myself to take photographs that needed no distorting. Which developed into searching for natural weather phenomenons, that had similar aesthetic and conceptual values that I was striving for. Speculation, clarity and resolution. God is used as a metaphor in this work. A popular term for a form of reflection and connection to something, that may differ from object reality. Whether in ourselves, deity or the natural world.

Candice Herne 2010

Hi everyone please note in your busy holiday schedules to come and see this fresh group exhibition I am participating in.

Nice Day

12 January - 19 February 2011

by Artists
Candice Herne, Sandra Landolt, Nicola Moss, Susan Buret, Jenny Conde,
Uta Heidelauf

A group exhibition in which artists have been responsive to weather conditions, patterns and effects.

The works have been created through a range of media from photography, paper-cuts, painting, drawing and kinetic sculpture.

presented by

Logan Art Gallery

Cnr Wembley Rd & Jacaranda Ave, Logan Central, Queensland, Australia

Open 10am - 5pm; Tues to Sat

Free Entry

Contact: Annette Turner, Logan Art Gallery

phone 07 3412 5519

I will also be holding a Children's workshop

Colours of the Wind

Thursday 13th February 2011, (ages 4 and up)

In this workshop we will talk about what colours are in the sky and where these colours come from and make a pinwheel. (I will post the exact times closer to the date)

Candyxx

In the studio

2010-11-27T11:25:00.000-08:00

I feel rather indulgent having a permanent studio space available. Oh this is the way to work. I can leave everything out, close the door behind me and open it again knowing I can start again where I left off. The children also enjoy playing, making and meandering in and out when I am working.It is a lovely space we can both enjoy. (After years of kitchen tables, corners of rooms and lots of one day studio set up's. I am enjoying this space :)

I have barely unpacked the studio and I had to get straight into work. Continuing the work I started while travelling. I have raw ochre that I found in South Australia, which I am grinding in a mortar and pestle and adding matt acrylic medium.

I am painting on to 20cm x 10cm pieces of hand made artist quality white 300gsm (thick/card) paper, which I bought from the makers workshop, Creative paper in Burnie, Tasmania. It's the raw edges on this paper which have me hooked. Every piece is individually crafted by the process which produces the soft, gentle uneven edges. I have called this series of work the Ochre Diaries, as they are a record of the time I spent travelling. Each piece has little notes made in pencil of where I was or what I was thinking, when I made the work. Next week I will show you around the other end of the studio, the gallery space and invite you to a exhibition I am having on January 12th at the Logan Regional Gallery. Till then, Candyxx

The door must be here somewhere, Northern Territory © Candice Herne 2010

Bare Mountains, South Australia © Candice Herne 2010

I passed by a Billabong, © Candice Herne 2010

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

2010-11-19T21:12:00.000-08:00

the log cabin

Hello I have been having a lovely break. Exploring my new town, house and studio. We started decorating the tree and making decorations today. So I thought since it looks so festive I would take some photo's of the cute log cabin in the rainforest we are renting. We put the old Bing Crosby on the Cd player danced around and got down to decorating and making things. We made star paper chains out of toilet paper (which I found out is the perfect height and width for making paper chain) and we made origami lanterns.

Handmade clay Christmas decorations. Made buy rolling out porcelain clay and using cookie cutter shapes. Sending them to the kiln. Then when dry painting with acrylic paints. Brilliant for kids!

Felted Christmas decorations made buy folding felt in half, drawing a shape cutting it out, so you have 2 pieces. Sewing it together and leave a opening for stuffing with cotton wool or something similar, then sew the opening together, and decorate the outside with sequins or anything. Also fun for kids!

Our Eclectic handmade decorated tree.

Origami Lantern, this is all connected by a series of folds and cuts. If anybody wants to know how to do it. I can pass on the instructions. Just email me. Till next week. Stay tuned for pictures of my new studio. Where I have been having a great time. Bring on the Rum balls!!!!! Candyxx

Home Sweet Home!

2010-10-04T18:07:00.000-07:00

Hello Bloggers I have been neglecting my blog, because I have officially given myself a BLEAK! ( a nick name I have made up for a Blogging Break.) Why??? Well I'll start at Hervey Bay.We visited Grandpa and spent some time catching up with the family. Then we decided to head back home to the Sunshine Coast, Queensland (Home)3 hours south of Hervey Bay. So we have come full Circe and are back home, after 10 months travelling around Australia. WOW! it sadly feels like we never left. Amazing how quickly we adapt. I am so thankful now that I blogged the whole trip, because we can always go back and relive and cherish these, wonderful memories. I would have liked the end to have been alot more poetic, alas "the end"

We found the most rustic, cute log cabin in the rainforest up in the Hinterlands of the Sunshine Coast. And to top it all off it comes with it's own studio and Gallery. So I have so much work ahead of me. Un packing, sorting, cleaning, updating, organising, finishing projects to make way for new projects. Settling the children into their new school and making a new routine for me and the family so I can attend to my new projects.

I would like to thank all the people who have travelled with me on my journey, friends, colleges and fellow bloggers. Your comments definitely inspired me as I travelled and at times acted as a surrogate friend especially in those times when we travelled through remote areas and I didn't think I could handle another night. I am exhausted and just need a little time out to rest, get organised and start preparing for another exciting journey. There is so much I am looking forward to sharing with you over the next 12 months, new residence, new studio/gallery, upcoming exhibitions, new art work and lots more. So stay tuned!

But first I'm on a little BLEAK! I'll be back when I feel refreshed, rested and super organised.

I'll leave you with a few pictures from our whale watching tour, taken on our last days at Hervey Bay, where the weather was magical.
see you soon Candyxx

photography by Candice Herne

When a 5 year old has the camera

2010-09-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

OK from Mt Isa we went spent 2 nights in Emerald where we stayed at my friend Gaye's Place. Gaye was my bride's maid when I got married. We grew up together on the Beach's of North Queensland. It was so good to catch up! We then headed towards Hervey Bay stopping off at Longreach to visit the Qantas (aeroplane) Museum. Rhody took all these pictures along the way. Next going to see Grandpa, Hervey Bay.

photography by Rhody Nash (5)

What's showing on our Gallery wall

2010-09-13T05:31:00.000-07:00

please click on the image twice to enlarge

Night and Day Photographs

2010-09-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

(Mt Isa city of Lights) you would think so taking a photograph at night from the look out. Alas it is a small mining town in Queensland.I was shocked to see the active mine right on the bustling door step of the town. Bizarre? I thought.

Our stop for the next week. Camped outside the RSL. We are hanging out here so we have mobile connection. Rod's Dad was in hospital having open heart surgery. He is out now, however he struggled in intensive care for the whole week. We decided to make our way to Hervey Bay to welcome him home. While we were here in Mt Isa they had Australia's biggest Rodeo. Yeeha!

Cowboy Corral

Bull riding

The burning of the big bull

Side show Alley, remember the Zipper for all you Aussie's, I think I would puke now!

Rhody walking around the stands

where is the cowboy, can you see him?

'untitled' photograph, taken at the Mt Isa Rodeo, 2010 copyright Candice Herne

( I still don't know how to get a copyright symbol using the laptop)

all photographs by Candice Herne and Rodney Nash

Over night stops and open spaces

2010-09-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

Our first overnight stay was at the Daly Waters Pub. We didn't know about this and stumbled upon it. We could have stayed in the caravan park on the high way. However we decided to turn into the town of Daly Waters to have a look. There is not much their. But it was bustling with life and full of colour. We checked in to stay on the grounds and attended the Beef and Barra Barbeque that evening and was entertained by Frank Turton and his chicken. Such a great night of outback Australian entertainment. Rhody was plucked from the crowd to help Frank sing a song, which turned into a whole spontaneous performance from Rhody egged on by Frank. Rhody commented that he felt like a Super Star.

Frank Turton (the Chook man)

We left Daly Waters the next morning and headed towards Queensland. We travelled a inland route through cattle stations, Cape Crawford to Barkley Station. I am really drawn to these open spaces. I like the emptiness filled with possibilities. It's like a emptying of the soul and mind, ridding itself of clutter. I often find myself decorating the landscape, like one would a home. Placing a lounge, stand up lamp, and a small table with flowers. I see me on the lounge watching TV. No walls or ceilings just the decor sitting on the landscape. I wonder what that would look like? I bought new sunnies.This photograph was taken through my sun glasses.

We did 9 hours driving today and the children were so well behaved. They have become patient and seasoned travellers. We camped overnight on the side of the road on a cattle station.

Rhody riding on the station

the other side of our camp

off we go heading for Mt Isa, Queensland

One week at the Kimberley - El Questro

2010-09-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

Here we are camped at our very own private little river about 2kms from El Questro township.

Day1

A short trek into one of the many waterholes

we saw another Bower Bird nest

and wild flowers.

Day 2

The boys take a helicopter flight over the Kimberley, no doors on this helicopter

we drive up to the lookout for sunset with cheese and wine

on the way home some cows cross the road.

Day 3

We hang out at home exploring our camp site

visiting the local ants

saying hello to the cows

and checking out the wasp nest.

Day 4

Early morning swim at the hot springs

another social evening at another lookout with wine and cheese (*FYI we used to have 2 ducks named Olive and Pate' in the before children era, they were stolen from our backyard 5 years ago just before Rhody was born, ohhhh!)

Day 5

We hired a boat for the morning and cruised down one the Gorge's

we saw some Donkey's on the way home.

Day 6

We drove all day along the Pentecost River, around the Cockburn Ranges. Through cattle stations to Wyndam and back to El Questro. We saw some Crocodiles in the wild. Big and fast!

We stopped off to look at some ancient Aboriginal rock art.

Day 7

We head towards home, Queensland.

Winner of the Good Poster Competition

2010-08-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

winner of the Good Poster Competition Francesca Cianfarini . Targeting Millennium Development Goal #4 Reduce Child Mortality

Following up on the Good Poster Competition I posted 2 weeks ago.

What I like about this work is that you can see the process, where by data and concepts have been stripped back to a basic understanding. Resulting in conclusions, resolutions and clarity. Clearly layering each bit of analysis to illustrate the issue. Congratulations! What a experience they will have attending the TEDxchange conference co hosted with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Woot Woot!

Katherine to Kununurra

2010-08-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

I am imagining a strawbale main house, (it's good to dream I say!)

I am imagining a Strawbale Studio with Mezzanine floor and high ceilings (it's good to dream I say!)

After leaving Litchfield National Park, we headed to Katherine and camped at the the Springvale Homestead.Where I found my design for a straw bale house and studio. I really love the earthy beauty, A framed roof, the cute patio, the handmade bricks the rough edges. I'd surround the buildings with rambling roses that climbed all over the buildings. Oh! such a romantic. Rod would soon snap me out of that, his only concern would be roots taking over the guttering, and burrowing into all nooks and crannies. (It's good to dream I say!) We plugged into power, regrouped and decided what to do next. Either head home back to Queensland or make our way to the Kimberley.

Ah Oh! we decided to head to the Kimberley. Half an hour out of Katherine, bang we had a blow out. This is the second blow out we have had. Rod puts it down to, too much weight. Must be the rock collection Rhody started in Tasmania, my goodness we have bags of rubble. And if anyone thinks that I could sneakily get rid of some. I tried and it was on. Mummy where is that rock I got from the Murray River (3 months ago) I put it in my cupboard Rhody says. I wasn't going to tell him the truth. I don't know I said. Well it has to be in here somewhere. His lip drops. Not to worry I say here is the bag from the Snowy mountains. A quick tyre change from the hand dandy Daddy and off we go.

We got as far as Timber Creek and camped at the Gregory National Park, where we saw our first Boab Tree. The rangers came and gave a presentation in the evening about things to see and do. I am impressed at the efforts the ranges go to in some of these National parks, with power point presentations, projector screens all the while trying to deal with the wind. Wangi falls at Litchfield was the same, ranges came out and gave a talk in the evenings. Gregory National Park has a Devils Claw festival which is a volunteer environmental project aimed at eradicating the noxious and vicious two-metre high Devil’s Claw weed that is threatening to take over the Gregory National Park. You can go for a week or two and help make a real difference to the environment and help save the park and native animals. Gregory National Park is home to flora and fauna species of the arid inland and tropical north, making it an ecologically important region.

Volunteers should be physically fit and enjoy spending time in the bush. Food and transport around the park will be provided. To find out more information about this please click here

We headed off to Kununurra Western Australia and camped at the base of the Mini bungle bungles. Kununurra is a lovely little town. I spent a lovely hour walking around and sitting in the Lovell Gallery, reading artists, books on poetry and art and flipping through Australian art magazines. It was such bliss.The galleries mascot is a Boab Tree outside the front of the gallery dressed up with a large pink ribbon. Inside there was baskets of Boab nuts. What made this visit even more interesting was the amount of effort that was gone too to display the connecting stories to all of the exhibited displays, from the pink ribboned Boab Tree to where and how the boab nuts were sourced. Personal stories of travels and meeting people.

You can never see too many flowers. These are some lovely wildflowers we saw on a walk around the mini Bungle Bungles

all photography by Candice Herne and Rodney Nash

Waterfalls, Termites and Bower Birds

2010-08-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

Florence Falls, we got into the falls and swam under the falls, even Suki

After a lovely 2 week break in Darwin with our friends. We headed south. Thinking that we would start to make tracks home back to Queensland. We got in the car and started heading home then we quickly decided we better pop into see Lietchfield National Park. It is still so hot so cooling off again our main aim. We opted not to stop in at Kakadu National Park. Only because every person we met said 'Kaka don't' don't waste your money go to Lietchfield and I mean everyone (mostly Australian campers and caravaners). I find this quite sad really because most Australians think of Kakadu as some kind of pilgrimage. It is not often I listen to other people, as I always like to make my own mind up, as my experience might be better or worse. Although I have been caught out many a time over the last couple of years, from not listening to the timely warnings of the experienced. (although I am still not convinced about my own reasoning for this) I did not see Kakadu so I can't tell u what I thought only the opinions of others. Anyhow here we are at Lietchfield. Thank goodness for water falls.

Tjarerna Falls a 3km round trip, it was worth the walk

Buley's Rocks one of the few watering holes where you don't have to walk along way. Walking in this heat with 2 young children can get a bit testy at times

Magnetic Termite Mounds you can read about them by clicking on the highlighted words

Cathedral Termite Mounds

Bower Bird Nest we found at Wangi Falls, where we were staying. Wangi Falls swimming hole was closed due to Crocodiles. Saltwater crocodiles breed and migrate to these areas. The public swimming holes are monitored all year round. I often wonder what if they missed one. Crocodiles have a slow metabolism. So the size of a humans head would be enough food to keep them satisfied for quite awhile. The freshwater crocodiles don't bother anyone, so the rangers say. Rod and the children went swimming at Katherine Gorge where a freshwater Crocodile sat looking at them from the bank opposite. I'm not at all convinced. Just a paranoid mother. However the local rangers assure you it is safe to swim only with Freshwater Crocodiles, NOT Saltwater Crocodiles

this is another Bower Bird Nest we saw while we were camping on the Hawkesbury River NSW, Australia

Help save the world

2010-08-18T15:11:00.000-07:00

World Views

2010-08-18T05:12:00.000-07:00

we were driving in the car towards a round-a-bout when Rhody Nash (5) says:

the world is like a round-a-bout

photograph by Candice Herne 2009

For Sophie-thank you!

2010-08-13T18:06:00.000-07:00

What's this you ask? Well let me tell you a story.

Fellow artist Sophie Munns whom I met through the Brisbane Artist Developemnet Cooperative last year, wrote an article about my blog on her blog this past week. My first blog positive press. Oh this was quite exciting. What I really enjoyed is reading and seeing how she described my journey and the photo's she chose to use.As the chief editor of my blog I always post what pictures I like or I think may best illustrate what I am doing. So to see what images Sophie chose was fun. I celebrated in the acknowledgement, appreciation, friendliness, and interaction. I would also like to acknowledge those people who popped into see me care of Sophie.

Robyn from Western Australia at Mind Scene.blogspot (Fragments Treasures Memories), loving those dark beach portrait photographs Robyn

and

Robyn from South Africa at Art Propelled.blogspot I'm loving those flags! So a big thank you to Sophie, I look forward to seeing you when I get back.

*Sophie has a very interesting blog, one which always informs, educates and is visually stimulating, check out the post she wrote about my blog here if you click here

So that is the recent Homage to Sophie, However there is more to the story. Sophie is currently Artist in Residence at the Brisbane Botanical Gardens, Queensland, Australia. Sophie is conducting a one year research, dissection and exploration to her on going fascination for the seed. You can read all about Sophie's residency here on her Residency blog Homage to the Seed . Last month Sophie asked people to send in handmade postcards to be included in her recent exhibition. She had a great response, local, National and International, bloggers, artists and the general public, contributed to her project.

So this is what I am getting at. I would have loved to participated in her postcard project. However I missed the deadline. I emailed Sophie and told her that I was still searching for seeds for her. Regardless of deadlines, I would send in my offering. I won't mind telling you I was starting to get a little picky about what to send her. I was trying to find her a seed that spoke to me and said yes this is for Sophie. Well here it is especially for Sophie, (late but none the less for Sophie).

Now Sophie hasn't seen this yet, because I have not sent it to her, yet. But......... I thought after she did such I grand job on blogging, I'd open her present for her :) a little early. This present for her has been burning a whole in my van for a while. And sometimes you just can't beat good timing. So thanks Sophie, here's my homage to you and your seeds. I'll hand it over to you when I get back.

Candyxx

This seed pod is called a Baobab Nut, from the Baobab Tree, native to Africa and Australia. This nut was found under a Baobab Tree at Wyndham, Kimberley's, Western Australia. It is very unusual to find a complete nut without fur or cracks on the outside. It was like someone had left it there for me. Their is fruit and seeds inside.You can read all about it here.

I used a needle type tool to scratch/carve in to the shell to etch Sophie's name and draw the pattern. Carving Baobab Nuts is a very tradional Aboriginal art that has been practiced for many years.

p.s. if you pop over to Sophie's blog tell her I said thank you Candyxx

Finding an Oasis in the Northern Territory

2010-08-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

We stayed in Palmerston 20 minutes from Darwin camped in our friends backyard. It's winter in Australia. Right? You would never have guessed that, coming to Darwin. Boy is it hot! Our air conditioner had no real effect, so cooling off was our main aim whilst we were here. I have to hand it to the local Aboriginals who have adapted to this climate so well. Northern Territory is a hot, harsh landscape. Beautiful in lots of different parts, however you have to travel and walk along way to see the hidden gems which are the spectacular waterholes,wetlands and rock formations. And of course good fishing, but only in the wet season. I asked a local hairdresser who cut my hair, which was indeed of some TLC, what she loved about Darwin/Northern Territory. Because I was struggling to find anything to love. She said the Wet Season, which is in summer. She loved the storms and all the rain. I said how do you cope with the heat, she said she didn't worry about it as she was mostly inside with the air conditoners. Our friends laughed at me and said I would not cope in summer. I think I would if I had something interesting to do.

While we were here Rod was offered 5 different jobs as a carpenter, 4 local jobs paying good money and one working on Aboriginal housing in a community about 4 hours from Darwin, which payed even better money. And their were other very interesting opportunities I could have applied for. That seems to be the way it works in Darwin. Because it is a long way from other states in Australia. There is a high turnover of people coming and going. Which continually opens up different and interesting job opportunities, for government positions and local business. With all the opportunities and high turnover though it comes at a cost. Housing is very expensive, we looked into renting and a very basic house or unit starts at $500 a week. So the extra bit of money you may think you would be saving will get eaten up on daily expenses. As food is also another bigger cost. Someone has to pay for the freight.We also looked into schooling. Yes we definitely did consider it. The schools I were looking into were not interested. I was told I would have no chance to get into the schools I approached. it was full for a very long time. Our friends also mentioned that particular companies in Darwin had first priority for their children to attend these particular schools.

I also saw a very very good student art exhibition at the Darwin Art gallery. I must say though if I see another traditional Aboriginal painting, which they had a lot of, I am going to scream. I was really hoping to see something fresh at the gallery and I was lucky to see the student work. I was very impressed with conceptual and clear communication in which the artist used to describe their work. If you get a chance read the artists statements that go with the work. If you click here it will take you straight to the catalogue

I also checked out another contemporary gallery worth mentioning 24hr art click here to take you straight their

after consideration we travel on .......................................

Keeping cool

Mataranka, hot springs. What an Oasis!

Berry Springs, another Oasis

Enter Goods poster contest to win a trip to TEDxChange

2010-08-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

Enter GOOD’s poster contest to win a trip to TEDxChange

Hyper in Katherine

2010-08-03T20:26:00.000-07:00

'untitled' photograph and digital image taken at the Katherine show, Northern Territory, Australia, by Candice Herne 2010

I started taking photographs of side show alley 2 years ago. Manipulating them to give them a hyper reality perspective. The hyper feel is portrayed as a intense emotional state. I often see myself like this when dealing with the everyday of parenthood. Especially now travelling around Australia in a caravan with my family. With no out or delete button. I have been faced every moment, everyday with the dealings of parenthood and family.

Side show alley is a loud, intense place, overwhelming, and bright. The space itself is dominate, fast, alluring,relentless, trippy and zippy. It is a meeting place to explore the mania and share in the euphoric excitement. Piercing screams, and manic laughter is not noticed, however just turns into part of the experience that is side show alley. As a mother at home with the children all day, there are times that the space at home can be exactly the same, filled with big sounds, colours and speed. I also am interested in the idea that sideshow alley is a place that people and particularly young people congregate to have a good time, with the sole purpose of having fun, leaving their issues and prejudice aside. Who can scream the loudest and what show bag to take home seems to be the only concern.

Australia's Rocks and meeting places

2010-08-02T22:20:00.000-07:00

We are still travelling straight up the middle of Australia. Rod and I met at Ayres Rock Resort in 1994. So going back had special memories for us.

on the way to Ayres Rock

Uluru/Ayres Rock

early morning walk through the Olga's. Camels on the way.

Walking through the Olga's

Devils Marbles at night. Rod took these photographs at night. He put the camera on a tripod and exposed/open the shutter for 2 minutes.

one marble

at Devils Marbles

another night landscape of Devils Marbles by Rod Nash

us camped at Devils Marbles. Picture taken from the top of DM looking down

all photography by Candice Herne and Rodney Nash

The Flight of the Budgi

2010-07-30T04:45:00.000-07:00

photography by Rodney Nash

These beautiful green Budgerigar photographs were taken by my husband Rod at the Henbury Meteorite Conservation Reserve containing 12 craters which were formed when a meteor hit the earth's surface 4,700 years ago.

(Click on the images to enlarge and see the subtle colours and details.)

Landscapes and underground interiors

2010-07-29T05:40:00.000-07:00

These Opal mines in Cooberpedy are everywhere. Mounds of earth scattered everywhere, which give the landscape a real pyramid Egypt feel. It is very easy to get a claim to start digging for Opal which costs around $70 which is why there is so many. While, travelling around and talking to the people it was not hard to get captivated by the thought of striking it rich just from digging through a bit of dirt. We went to a fantastic Old Timers Mine Tour and heard stories where people found a $100,000 piece of opal on the side of the road, in the carpark and from their first dig. Lots of people come out here as a tourist and get opal fever and stay. Tantalizing! However I would not last it is way to hot out here. Their is a great story to read if you click on the Old Timers Mine tour link above.

Everything looks salvaged and DIY in Cooberpedy. This kind of residential landscape is very common.

This is Faye's House. A underground dug out house. Alot of residential houses are built underground because of the extreme heat in summer. I find them absolutely genius really. Faye's is a open house and you can wander around and check out how it is all constructed, which is usually made out of old mines that are re-constructed to be lived in. Faye's house has 7 underground rooms. The caretaker said their is a house in Cooberpedy that has 22 rooms. Wouldn't you just love to see that!

Kitchen looking into the lounge room

Bedroom 1 with a lower level Bedroom 2

From the bedroom you go down a hall way past the cellar

into the lounge/living room. Don't you just love the retro interior

then from the lounge room their is a pool room. This room is my favourite. Way too cool. I just love the decor. It could have come straight out of a 70's Magazine.

the other end of the pool room

This landscape is called the Breakaway's about a 30km's from Cooberpedy. Definitely worth the drive. The landscape is just stunning! Click on the image to get the whole view.

all photography by Candice Herne

Along the Oodnadatta track

2010-07-29T00:44:00.000-07:00

From William Creek we took the Oodnadatta Track to Cooberpedy (I always thought it was Cooperpedy) the opal mining capital of the world.

The Oodnadatta Track is basically a dirt track through the desert.

along the track we stopped at another rusted old car to admire and have a play in

the desert gallery along the way

a tyre with it's insides on the outside, I like the fringing

Old signs along the way

A salty death

2010-07-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

Lake Eyre has basically been salt plains for decades until the recent floods.

Lake Eyre (if you click on the highlighted words Lake Eyre you can read all about the wonders of this Australian master piece of nature, be sure to look at both the photographs.)

The above photograph was taken on the way to William Creek. Their is so much talk at the moment about Lake Eyre being flooded and full of wildlife. I was hoping to catch a glimpse of it as we travelled to Lake Eyre. However the waters have not reached this end of the lake. Still beautiful though I like the stripes of colours from the salt plains.

These photographs were taken at Lake Eyre east off William Creek, I still had hope that I might see some of the magic. Alas I received the other side of life. Hooray their was water, however the bird life was scarce and their was an insane carpet of dead locust's, fish and birds that covered the sand as far as the eye could see. We experienced the tail end of a locust plague while driving through Mildura. However I wasn't prepared to see such a cemetery of animals on the lake. In the article I have highlighted their is a mention that their are tours to Lake Eyre from Warbuton Creek, I'm guessing this is were the magic is.

Meeting expectations

2010-07-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

Driving towards the Flinders Ranges, South Australia. I have been searching for mountains with no trees. Don't know why, just something I thought about since I left Queensland. I found it in South Australia, beautiful landscapes and spaces with the colours and land lines that are dominate, free from trees. Hans Heysen is a well known artist from South Australia who paints these landscapes.

We camped at Wilpena Pound. It turns out that Kangaroo's eat cardboard. I thought it may have been the green colour that attracted this Kangaroo to eat this box. However I was told it was not the colour, but the cardboard. See the baby Joey in mothers pouch.

We walked to the pound, in camouflage

From the Flinders Ranges we drove North to William Creek. For me this was were I really felt like I was in the outback. It epitomized everything I believed the outback was. Basically a nothingness with a Pub. All my expectations were met on this visit. I started to feel like the adventure was just about to start.

What's Showing on our Gallery Wall

2010-07-21T01:21:00.000-07:00

if you click on this image once to open in another window, then again to enlarge, the text in this artwork will be easier to read.

Freedom

2010-07-17T23:51:00.000-07:00

'give them feathers, to build their own wings'
Candice Herne

Camped in Ruins

2010-07-17T05:55:00.000-07:00

We camped at Farina Ruins a town in the far north of South Australia, a bush camp on the edge of the desert. It was settled in 1878 by farmers. The town is no longer inhabited, with the closest residents now living at Farina station, west of the town. The post office closed in the 1960s. In its heyday, the town had two hotels and a bakery. Today their is nothing but stone ruins.

Back on track in Burra

2010-07-07T23:32:00.000-07:00

So were was I, until I was rudely interrupted. That's right. BURRA.

We fell in love with Burra. We stayed at the showgrounds for $10 a night and was treated to 5 star service from Pat and Bob who are the caretakers. Bob brought us wood for our fire every night. And Pat brought the children a bag each of second hand toys and books. It was like Christmas The children were so overjoyed with their special gifts and so were we with their warmth and hospitality. This generosity of spirit, seemed to run through the town. The information centre, gave visitors

to the town a key and a extensive map to all the historic properties,so we could

explore at our own leisure. This town is filled with historic stone buildings and is such a magical place. Have you ever thought about moving to a place just so u could live in the house of your dreams.oh! What could we do with a historic railway station. My husband Rod is a carpenter and together we have restored 2 old cottagers and spent 8 years in Brisbane renovating houses. We sold our last project oct 2008, with plans to redevelop in the Sunshine coast. That plan is on hold while we are travelling. However my sister just sent me some enticing information on straw bale buildings which we have for years researched and contemplated.

I'm still gathering secrets

2010-07-04T01:11:00.000-07:00

Maddy here once again. A few weeks ago I asked a friend to tell me a secret, a secret about anything (it could have been that they didn't feed the cat this morning!), purely because I was curious and wanted to start up a conversation with this person. The answer proved to be very interesting, and that got me thinking, maybe everyone has those secrets about themselves that they don't always share. So I asked a large amount of people to tell me a secret, some asked for a secret from me as well, and of corse I delivered to them. I'm still gathering secrets, so I won't post the finish product yet, but I'm very excited to get everyones reactions to it. And I guess the whole point of this post is to build suspense, and get everyone else excited too. Also to think about people secrets, when you're walking down the street and you see someone, could they have killed someone? Could she be depressed? Could he have voices in his head?

It's all very interesting when you see what people would usually hide from everyone.

Here's a picture of me, in the mean time. But I have brown hair, it's cherry red now :) very happy about it being this color tooo :)

New Found Glory by Maddison Mosbey

I did this one day, when I was a tad bored. I think it's cute :)

Surface

2010-07-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

I see many things while travelling. However somethings always stay constant with me and that is my love for surface. I can't seem to help getting a little gooy over warn, surfaces. Just like these windows I saw at Burra in South Australia.

Birth and New beginnings

2010-07-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

While visiting Melbourne I caught up with my good friends Belinda and John. Who are expecting their first baby in August. We had a picnic in a Park at Williams Town and we took some fun Photo's. I'd love to link to some other post's and images of Bel and Jon that I have done previously. But alas I can't. So I thought these images were a good place to restart my blog (for now). Birth and New beginning. It's all onwards, upwards, sidewards and I'm sure a little backwards. Raising a child is just as much work as raising one's career and profile. Good times and bad times, tantrums and cuddles. You just have to try and keep a level head, breath, take control of yourself and get back on that horse. Life is challenging. Yeeha!!!! Giddy Up! And most importantly have a sense of humour.
Candyxx