A Peek at Art Licensing & How Products Take Shape...

Ever wonder how a licensed product takes shape? Well, I have devoted a whole BLOG Post to explaining my experience, sharing the steps from A to Z. To illustrate the process, I am showing how we developed last year’s Black Cat Mug from rough sketch, to clays, to revisions to final. Many of you have asked how an idea becomes a licensed product. So, I hope this post sheds some light on the mystery as well as how you can help to ensure that our designs do make it all the way to production. Read the entire article, now posted to our New Blog on our Website!

ENJOY!
~ Johanna

Happy Halloween!

.... October 31st is here once again! We hope it's hauntingly purrrfect for you! Enjoy a medley of pictures from black cat Jack's Halloween photoshoot over on our NEW BLOG! 

Bugs & Hisses,
~ Johanna, JP and Jack



Get the look! Download my illustrated Vintage Style Halloween Garland from our Store's DIY Printables page. Happy Haunting & Crafting!

A Glimpse at the Glens Art Walk...

Hey All! Hop on over to our

NEW BLOG

on our NEW Website for a medley of clickable photos from this year's 3rd Annual Glens Art Walk! It's a Halloween feast for the eyes :) Enjoy!

View fullsize

Happy Haunting,

~ Johanna ~

Hoppy Easter!

BOO! Oh wait, it's Easter! Well, I hope it's SWEET! Trick or Treat :)

Best Wishes to you,
~ Johanna



* Sneak peek at some of my new collectible characters form my 2017 Halloween Transpac line...

Collector Candy Bowls for Halloween! * * * * * * * * Pre-Order by April 15th!

Hey Halloween Collectors! 

I'm now taking your orders till April 15th for my new 2017 Halloween candy container collectibles from my Bethany Lowe Designs line. Each will be SIGNED and shipped directly from me, the artist, in late summer / early fall of this year. All went smoothly with last year's orders & shipments, so we're doing this again! Please make sure you place your order & pre-pay by April 15th so your request will be included in the production count. I cannot guarantee that I will have extras of each piece after my fall show. So, jump on the Halloween Wagon :)

For more Details, visit my Website!

* Please EMAIL ME with your order *

Add these unique, Artist-Signed Halloween characters to your fall decor this year! You'll be so happy when Halloween rolls around :)

Thank you!!!
~ Johanna

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Pattern Pleasures with a Burst of Color!

Hi Friends!

I am excited to share my 2nd round of pattern designs with you! Included in the mix is my new and very colorful "Garden Delights Collection"! I must admit that I do love color, so this group really brought me smiles and joy. The swatches just arrived, and I've been marveling out how close the colors match  my original designs. I also added a medley of accent hues to the doodle patterns that accompany the whimsical hummingbirds in my "Nature's Frolic Collection". I look forward to seeing what lovely projects some of you makers out there will dream up with these designs. And, lastly, I added a couple new Halloween patterns that are oh so fun! You can find all of these designs and more in my JohannaParkerDesign Spoonflower Shop! Hop on over and look around...

Thank you for your support & Happy Creating!

Now, I really feel like we are creating together :)



* That's me holding up my latest sheet of fabric swatches :)



* Then, it was time to slice 'em all up!



* Here's a quick and colorful glance at the swatches of my Garden Delights Collection! It's a wide palette of many colors, but they bridge across each other, offering coordinates for your crafting.



* I just added the two front designs to my Halloween grouping. I designed the Halloween Cat & Owl Checkerboard design to fit just right on a standard 8" x 8" swatch!



* "Nature's Frolic" ~ It's one of my favorite groups... I used the same color palette throughout in order offer coordinates for your projects. Don't forget that these come in gift wrap & wallpaper too. And, the Roostery has lots of pretties over there, just ready to be ordered and made to enjoy!



* Jack played a little hide & seek with the fabric swatches...



* A closer peek at my Halloween checkerboard design shows the depth of detail that is achieved in these prints. Yay! This is the kinda thing that makes an artist sing :)

I hope you enjoyed the peek! I need to take some crisper pics with a decent camera as most were captured with a cell. But, I was anxious to snap some photos!  There will be more to come. I hope you enjoyed the peek. Please feel free to share your feedback, and I hope you'll think of my Spoonflower Shop when dreaming and designing your next projects. I can't wait to see, and I hope you'll share a photo or two.

Happy Creating!
~ Johanna

Finally, Fabric Designs & more are Here!

Happy Spring! March has marched right in... It's been a while since I popped in here for an update. 2017 is well underway, and with a new year comes new adventures! With my love for illustration and patterns, I've been moved to open a Spoonflower Shop! Over the years, your inquiries for my designs on fabrics have been such, that you inspired me to join up with this American-made company. My sample swatch prints have now arrived, and all is good... So, my JohannaParkerDesign ~ Spoonflower Shop has officially opened! Hop on over for a peek where you will find a medley of my designs for spring as well as a teaser for Halloween. I've also organized this first round of designs into collections. So, from my shop's page, click on "Designed Collections" to see those groups coordinated by color and theme. Feel free to share your suggestions for new designs and any needs for pattern scaling. You are welcome to make and sell my fabric into your creations, and I encourage it! Please offer credit to #johannaparkerdesign along the way. I look forward to seeing your projects, so do share photos as I may post those to my shop. Along with fabrics, my patterns are also available on wallpaper and gift wrap! And, if you like a fabric design but don't feel like sewing a darn thing, you can visit me on Roostery! There, you can select and order pillows, tea towels, cocktail napkins and even chairs that feature my designs! FUN! I've pulled together a few samples below for your viewing pleasure. Visit the following links and enjoy browsing my collections. As always, I appreciate your support in spreading the word, sharing and collecting my art in its various forms :)

Hugs,
~ Johanna




* I have a thing for butterflies and just couldn't resist adding a few winged patterns to my "Spring Whimsies" Collection on Spoonflower. I may just have to order the buggy vintage green pillow from the Roostery! And, get a look at that fun patchwork chair.. How sweet would that be in a child's nursery?!  :)  The chairs are a bit spendy, but you can get the same fabric on pillows, tea towels, etc... I think it would be fun to get a yard and cut it up into mini spring projects or have fun quilting it...



* I grabbed a screen capture of my Spring-themed fabric swatches so you could see them all in one place. I hope to add more along the way. Feel free to share your suggestions, scaling preferences, etc..  This is all new to me, and I'm learning as I go.




* I also have a thing for Robins.... and hummingbirds, and Halloween and the list goes on.. LOL! Currently, my "Nesting Robin" Collection on Spoonflower has just three surface designs, but the Roostery has expanded upon those to offer a variety of delights. Don't forget that you can also order these patterns on wallpaper and gift wrap too!




* My "Hummingbirds on Lilac" is one of my faves. Elements from this pattern were initially designed for a life size utility station box wrap along Lakewood's RTD West Rail Line... I enjoyed the composition so much that I thought it was time to extend it to other surfaces so that we can enjoy it in our homes. I plan to add more pattern designs to this Collection entitled "Garden Delights"... Check out the Roostery's matching Pillow and Cloth Cocktail Napkins... Cute!



* And, I'd be remiss to open my JohannaParkerDesign ~ Spoonflower Shop without including a few Halloween designs! So far, I have a series of 10 October 31 themed patterns for fabric, gift wrap and even wallpaper for those of you serious Halloween fanatics :) I definitely want to see photos of that! Do SHARE!

Thanks again for your support. I so look forward to your adventures in crafting with my surface designs. Let's keep the creative spirit flowing!  :)

~ You can also find me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest ~

Johanna Parker Halloween Giveaway!!

Let's Share in the Happy Spirit of Halloween!

~ with a GIVEAWAY and ~ 

3 Prizes to WIN!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

* WINNERS UPDATE *

We drew 3 names, and the Winners are:

1st Prize: Ruth in CA
* An Original ~ "Batty Jack Bandit" *

2nd Prize: Angel G.
* A Signed Reproduction Hooty Owl *

3rd Prize: Lauri T.
* A Candle wrapped in Johanna's Illustration *

You can watch me draw the names out of a vintage lantern on my Instagram or Facebook page.

VIEW all the PHOTO submissions 
here in my Flickr Album!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

All you have to do is take a photo of your Johanna Parker Design Halloween decor & share it with us! 

Just one photo please, and we'll do the rest. In sharing your admiration for my Oct. 31 creations, we will enter your name into our raffle. 

Three winners will be drawn on November 3rd!

Thank you so very much for your support! I truly look forward to seeing your photos as they inspire my creative spirit and bring me JOY!

To Play along, see the Easy Steps below....

~ TO ENTER ~

Please submit ONE photo of your Halloween Decor that includes at least one Johanna Parker Reproduction or Folk Art Original or a Mix of both! Have fun, be creative and show off your collection! I can't wait to see how you've infused my designs into your home for Halloween :) 

SUBMIT a PHOTO:

Via EMAIL to: johanna@johannaparkerdesign.com

(Title your email: "Halloween Giveaway" & 

Please include your first Name & Location in the email)

~ OR ~

Post your Photo to Instagram using Hashtag: #johannaparkerhalloween

I will share your images to a public folder on my Flickr page, here on my Blog and perhaps other social media avenues. This is all about SHARING the Happy Spirit of Halloween! Please play along :) Photo submitters will be entered into a raffle for the 3 Prizes, and 3 winners will be drawn on November 3rd. 

We would be grateful if you would SHARE the above Halloween Raffle graphic with your friends online. Choose whatever social media means you wish. The more the merrier for more eye candy * Share for Good Luck!

(All are welcome to join in.... including friends, family, ghosts and all)

Again, we want to THANK ALL of you that collect my Halloween characters and welcome them into your homes. It is a pleasure to imagine the smiles that we generate via holiday folk art. We shipped many of my collectibles out this year, and it will be a treat to see some of these guys displayed in your decorated dwellings. 'Tis the spooktacular season!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

xo,

~ Johanna ~

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Halloween Blog Sale Round 2...

Here we go again!.... HAPPY HALLOWEEN dear collector friends!  :) Please scroll down to see the last of of my signed reproduction delights that I am offering this season. Some characters cross over to other sets, so make sure you peek at each image before selecting your fave.

Please EMAIL ME with the name of the set or single you are interested in. We will be preparing your orders and sending out e-invoices after your package has been weighed and measured for a shipping estimate. Boxes will begin to ship out next week!

Many thanks for your interest in my 

Signed Reproduction Collectibles!

~ Johanna ~

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect all three Jacks @ $80 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

-  1 Jack Box from Johanna's Transpac line.

 Approximately 9" tall

- 1 Glass candy jar with jack /cork lid from Johanna's Transpac line.

Approximately 7.75" tall

- 1 pumpkin scented Candle from Johanna's Aunt Sadie's, 

made in Vermont, candle line

Candle is 4" tall

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ Only 1 pair available

Two collectible Owls @ $110 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Hooty Owl Candy Bowl from Johanna's

 2016 line of Bethany Lowe Designs

Candy Bowl is approximately 7" tall by 4" wide

Rustic fit, handle with care

- 1 Standing Owl figurine from Johanna's 2015  line of 

Bethany Lowe Designs

 approximately 9.25" tall by 8.75" wide

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ Order soon! Low on stock...

Choose a single or any combo @ $50 each plus shipping

~ CHOOSE FROM ~

- 5 different  Candy Bowl characters from 

Johanna's 2016 line of Bethany Lowe Designs. 

(Frankie, Bride of Frank, Happy Cat, Hooty Owl & Sweet Jack)

Each is approximately 7" tall by 4" wide

Rustic fit, handle with care

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect all four Franken-Love characters @ $125 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Bride of Frank Candy Bowl & 1 Frank Candy Bowl from Johanna's 

2016 line of Bethany Lowe Designs. 

Each is approximately 7" tall by 4" wide

Rustic fit, handle with care

-  1 Frank Sitter & 1 Bride of Frank Sitter

from Johanna's new "Punkin Peep" Transpac line.

Each approximately 6.5 " tall

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect the Purrfect Pair @ $74 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Black Cat Candy Bowl from Johanna's 2016 line of 

Bethany Lowe Designs. 

Each is approximately 7" tall by 4" wide

Rustic fit, handle with care

-1  Black Cat crepe paper ruffle ornament

(ONLY 6 pairs were made by Primitives by Kathy, and

then the product was discontinued. This is one of the few samples)

Approximately  4.5" wide

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect three Jacks @ $88 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

-  1 Jack Sitter from Johanna's new "Punkin Peep" Transpac line.

approximately 6.5 " tall

-1  Jack Ball character ornament  from Johanna's

2014 line of Bethany Lowe Designs. 

approximately 5.75" tall including hook

- 1 Jack-o'-lantern Candy Bowl from Johanna's

 2016 line of Bethany Lowe Designs. 

Each is approximately 7" tall by 4" wide

Rustic fit, handle with care

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect these festive figures @ $45 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

-  1 standing black cat & 1 standing skelly

from Johanna's Transpac line.

Each approximately 7.5 " tall

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Quantities Limited

Collect all Five Illustrated Charmers @ $70 plus shipping

- 3 Fall Scented Candles from Johanna's Aunt Sadie's, 

made in Vermont, candle line

SCENT LIST: 

Black Cat = pumpkin

 Jack o' Lantern = pumpkin

Skelly = Cinnamon Spice

Candles are wrapped in Johanna's whimsical illustrations

 and signed on the underside. Candles are 4" tall

-2 Double-Sided Halloween Ornament Charms

from Johanna's retired line of Primitives by Kathy designs

(featuring an Owl/BOO & Crow/Jack)

Charms are 2" square

CLICK image for a larger View!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Two collectible Ornaments @ $48 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Black Cat & 1 Jack crepe paper ruffle ornament

ONLY 6 pairs were made by Primitives by Kathy, and

then the product was discontinued. These were samples.

Approximately  4.5" wide

CLICK image for a larger View!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

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Later Today, Halloween Reproduction Array!.....

Stay tuned friends! I'm working on the photographs and graphics for my Blog Sale of Signed Halloween Reproductions that will be launching here, later today! The sale will commence with a newsletter announcement which will also include details about my Web Sale of originals next week on Oct. 13th. If you have not done so, please Join my Mailing List for ALL the details!

I'll be baaaaaack as sooooon as I can!  :)

Cheers,
~ Johanna

Halloween at the Glens Art Walk!...

Many thanks to all that joined us on Saturday's 2nd Annual Glens Art Walk! It was a treat to see your smiling faces at a new location this time around! We were all blessed with a beautiful fall day, perfect for strolling the wooded and winding streets of the historic Glens neighborhood. More thank you's go out to Robert and Ann for their hospitality and for hosting us, as well as to hubby JP for putting up with me each and every year at this frenzied time and also to our friend Karen who wrapped and sacked for us at the show. That gave me a chance to chat more with my Halloween-loving friends! Included are some photos from our location on the Art Walk map. I will share more pics of some of the other open studios after I have a chance to sift through my images. The Glens Art Walk is slated for the first Saturday in October next year too! So, mark your calendars so you can experience it for yourself!

For those that have inquired and were unable to join us.... YES, I will be hosting a Web & Blog sale of Halloween delights this month! If you have not done so, please Join my Mailing List as those details will be included in my next newsletter, going out later this week!

Enjoy,
~ Johanna


* There I am being goofy in my Halloween bling, bejeweled mostly by collectors that have gifted me these fun adornments! After a series of long days and short nights, I think I'm looking a little haggy.... :-0



* A pic of my Halloween display... The old white cubbies were perfect for my new shelf sitter characters, candles and my originals too...



* More Halloween delights cozied up on shelves and awaited collectors.... One of Ann's silk media art pieces is captured in the corner...



* A wide image shows my full corner display! We were pleased with the layout and how we were able to tuck everything in its place, given the new space... Ann's lovely silks were opposite my display, and you can see some of Robert's metal designs in the back sunroom, Alfred Hitchcock included!....



* More Halloween collectibles looked like candy for the eyes!



* JP and I made a last minute sign post to help guide art enthusiasts to our location on the map!



* A pic of Ann & Robert's front walkway which led visitors to our creations indoors..



* And let the collecting begin!... Decisions, decisions.....  :)



* A photo of Ann Lederer and her richly colored hand-painted silk scarves. We both shared the front room...




* Robert Hickler, strikes a pose next to one of his imaginative sculptures...



* More fishbone metallic sculptures from Robert hung in the back window where he displayed his creations. Their wooded backyard and picture window were the perfect setting to showcase some of his bold garden art designs. The burst of red off in the distance was one of two standing sculptures on display...



* And me again! I pulled out the black and white striped stockings to match some of my new shelf sitters :)

If you attended, we hope you enjoyed the art walk and a unique peek into a variety of artist homes and whimsical backyard studio spaces.....

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!



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Halloween Original Sneak Peek...

Hi Friends..... It's been a frenzied last few weeks, and now we are so close to this Saturday's Art Walk in the Glens Neighborhood! Thankfully, I have finished a fun medley of originals, and I even took some pretty photos of each :) I am posting a sneak peek of these one of kinds which will be up for adoption at the show on October 1st. I will also have a variety of signed reproductions for Halloween lovers to collect along with my candles and notepads. I hope to see you at:

The Glens Art Walk
Saturday, October 1, 2016
10 am  - 4 pm
Find me & my Halloween at 1690 Glen Dee Drive, Lakewood, CO 80215
More Details HERE

Enjoy & Happy Halloween!
~ Johanna

























Follow along with me on INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK & PINTEREST

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Collector Candy Bowls for Halloween ************* Pre-Order by March 15th!

Hello friends! A while back on social media, I posted a teaser photo of this year's Halloween Candy Bowl collection that I created for Bethany Lowe Designs. Response was very enthusiastic for these sweet ball characters that also double as 2-part trinket treat bowls! Your inquiries for these special pieces have prompted me to offer you a chance to Pre-Order them before they sell out for the fall season. If I receive your orders by March 15, and all goes as planned, you'll be the proud owner of one or more of these collectible delights when they ship mid summer! Visit my Halloween Candy Bowl page for more details, price & payment info! EMAIL ME soon to place your Pre-Order and thank you for your interest...

Have a BOOtiful Day!
~ Johanna ~





* See more at my Folk Art Reproductions page..




Don't forget to follow me on .....

  and Facebook!

and feel free to...

Happy Halloween!

'Tis that haunting time of year again! May you and yours have the Happiest of Halloweens, and may it be a wild rrrrride!

Halloween Hugs,
~ Johanna, JP & Jack














Follow me on FACEBOOK too....

Collector Spotlight: Mary & Frank in Washington!

Hello Friends!

I am honored to share another fun Collector Spotlight with you! For about 8 years now, Mary and Frank have been such sweet supporters of my folk art! Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, they traveled to a California art event years ago where I was exhibiting my Halloween folk art originals, and the rest is history! Since then, they've journeyed out to Colorado to experience one of our rocky mountain winters and collect a few winter delights. Most recently, I travelled to them at this year's Hallowbaloo in Washington state! They arrived early, and it was such a pleasure to reconnect! After last month's Halloween event, they decorated their home with their favorite seasonal delights and sent me a video clip of their festive mantel. I was so thrilled to see their display that I invited them to share more of their photos with you! Gladly they accepted! So, ENJOY a peek into their decorated home along with a fun Q & A. Many thanks to both Mary & Frank for sharing a glimpse into their home and for being such dear collector friends!




* I love this selfie! Frank & Mary are always smiling bright whether it's in person, photo or via email :)



* Here Mary arranges a group of my originals by color scheme. The folk art vintage whites and earthen hues from surrounding textural accent pieces bring out the natural charm of these two lumina jacks and the ghost sitter (.. the ghost they acquired this year!)




* This dramatic vignette centers around one of the few taller pieces that I have created over the years. The sweet jack-o'-lantern vase looks charming surrounded by fall gourds, autumnal foliage and a hooked art piece.

Johanna: How did you learn about my Halloween folk art?

Frank & Mary: We started collecting Halloween folk art work back in 2002. We went to Halloween & Vine in Petaluma, CA for the first time in 2007 and Mary was suddenly drawn to your display and character designs and became avid followers of your work ever since.

Johanna: Well that is definitely a perk of traveling to shows as we have the opportunity to make new friends that often fall in love with the art that we make. And the connections made inspire me to make more characters and dream up new concepts!




* A trio of Halloween originals strike a pose on Frank & Mary's mantel. These two candy containers and a jack make for a fun cluster under the towering candles. "Witch Hazel" at left (and referenced below) captured Mary's heart, and the collecting began!

Johanna: How long have you been collecting my originals?

Frank & Mary: It all started in 2007 at Halloween and Vine when Mary purchased "Witch Hazel" which was shown in a magazine featuring your work.

Johanna: Well, "Witch Hazel" looks content in her WA home. She has certainly welcomed many more JPD cousins into her family since her arrival! And yes, she did appear in Halloween Tricks & Treats Magazine by Better Homes & Gardens, the same year you started collecting my art!



* Here's a wide of their lovely mantel where you can see many of their Johanna Parker Design folk art characters proudly displayed.

Johanna: What is it about my creations that captures your imagination?

Frank & Mary: Your creations highlight a special occasion or holiday, but the folk art details and care that go into each piece bring a sense of joy in looking at them anytime.

Johanna: Ahh, thank you for saying that. A lot of heart and attention to detail do go into every piece with the wish that they will be cherished, appreciated and bring joy to their new owners. For me, it's a treat to see those smiles in person too...

* Speaking of joy and smiles, JP happened to capture this adorable photo of Mary grinning with glee after she snatched my one and only black cat folk lantern! From the looks of it, she found a prominent spot for this cutie in the center of their mantel!



* I just realized that I named this piece "Happy Frank Folk Lantern!" This often happens when creating my pieces... I'll get the notion to name a character a certain name, and then the collector that acquires it will have a deep connection to that name. Well, here we go again!! Clearly, both Franks make Mary happy, and that likely makes Frank happy too! Hence, "Happy Frank!"



* A tall green vase, filled with bittersweet, frames an end of their stunning mantel display. The soft vintage green accents on some of my originals pair well with the decorative objects, candles and nature inspired finds the Mary embellishes her seasonal settings with.

Johanna: Where have you had the best luck in acquiring my original pieces; shows, web sales, Collector's Catch, eBay, etc?

Frank & Mary: Our best luck in acquiring your work has been at shows, with an early arrival the best strategy. Web sales have also worked as long as I (Frank) was at a computer at the right time. The most fun was making a journey to Denver after it had snowed at one of your open houses in December when we were able to meet JP and your parents and take a side trip to Georgetown for a sleigh ride.

Johanna: Ah yes! We certainly enjoyed your presence at that memorable event! The flakes were falling and we were blanketed in sparkling snow, perfect for a holiday themed event. And yes, my parents who also live in WA, were in town visiting too! Thanks for braving the storm and being courageous to venture up into the mountains to Georgetown too :)



* Here is a magical snapshot of the winter originals that Mary & Frank adopted during a past visit to our Holiday Open House in Denver. I do remember it being a very snowy weekend, so I'm sure these pieces bring back lots of fun wintery memories from their snowy trip to Colorado, sleigh ride and all! How fun and nostalgic!

Johanna: Do you have a favorite piece in your collection?

Frank & Mary: The pieces are like children so there are not any favorites - they are all loved equally.

Johanna: That's a safe answer!  :) I hear ya, it's difficult to pick folk art faves!



* Here's a fun side scene of spooky characters! My 2 original jack-o'-lanterns (Johanna Parker Design) at center are in great company with 2 of Scott Smith figures from Rucus Studio...



* A jolly JOL man by Jack Roads takes a seat next to a black feather tree trimmed in Halloween ornaments.. Mary has her tree tucked in an old firkin, cleverly tying in a little of the past with the present. Let's take a closer peek!



* Ahh, yes, I spy 3 of my reproduction Halloween hanging ball characters from my Bethany Lowe Designs collection. Intermixed are other delights including a variety of Patricia Breen baubles.

Johanna: Is there anything in particular you suggest I try making
in the future?

Frank & Mary: We miss collecting the "mantle pieces" and bowls with characters done earlier in your designs - so bringing them back would be nice.

Johanna: Hmm, can you describe what you mean by "mantle pieces"?

Frank & Mary: I remember seeing large bust/head pieces (like shoulder and head) that you put on your mantle and shelf in one magazine featuring your work.

Johanna: Oh, I see! Yes, you are referring to my head and shoulders busts. I bet you are remembering back to my Tricks & Treats article as there was a witch bust pictured on a side table and a Jack bust on the mantle. I kept them both, and now they live on my studio shelf :) Thanks for your feedback! I should make a few busts for next year.




* Speaking of busts, here is a mini bust that Frank & Mary collected during my 4th of July themed web sale last year. I'm glad you snatched an Uncle Sam, as I rarely have time to make summer season characters.



* Beyond the Halloween & Holiday collecting, Mary & Frank enjoy celebrating Valentine's Day! They snapped this sweet photo of a heartfelt trio. Again, I'm in great company, as my two Johanna Parker Design V-Day snowman and love bird egg cup are cozying up to a precious Nicol Sayre angel.



* And, let's not forget about spring! So far, Mary & Frank have adopted this original chocolate-hued bunny ball character of mine. If I could find the time to make more spring characters, they would likely have a few. But, one is certainly a happy start and may just "spring" forth others!

Well, I hope you enjoyed this peek into Frank and Mary's delightful home! I certainly did! I probably say this every time, but it is always a pleasure to see my folk art characters lovingly displayed in my collectors' homes. Whether they prefer contemporary modern, shabby chic, eclectic, vintage, or beyond, my folk art originals seem to fit right in! That always fascinates me! Again, I am honored to  see my creations carefully arranged and admired with love. Many many thanks to Mary and Frank for  supporting my artistic endeavors and opening their doors to us! Your home is lovely!

To leave a comment or question for Frank & Mary, please click on the "comments" link at the bottom of this post! Thank you!

I look forward to sharing more Collector Spotlights posts in the future. 'Tis the season, so before you take down your JPD holiday displays, send me some photos for next time! I look forward to honoring your support of the folk-arts!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
~ Johanna

Happy Hallowbaloo...

We're finally back from exhibiting at the Hallowbaloo in Washington! It was a long journey's drive across beautiful mountains and valleys, but we made it to and fro, thanks to JP and his mastery behind the steering wheel! THANKS to ALL my dear collector friends who made their own trek out to see us and adopt some special Halloween folk art characters. It was a pleasure to see you! It was also a treat to reconnect with fellow Halloween artist friends and meet others that I had only chatted with online. Big Hugs to the guys that wove the big Hallowbaloo web and created a memorable day for both artists and collectors alike! And, another big thanks to my parents for hosting us at their lovely home and for letting me borrow all those cool antique props! There's no way we could have stuffed all that into our VW beetle! hehe! As shows are always such a frenzy from A to Z, I did what I could to document the event from behind the camera. Below is a small collection of images along with a couple of photo collages that offer a glimpse of the Halloween magic at the Hallowbaloo. ENJOY....

(And don't forget.... I'll be exhibiting at the 10th Annual Halloween Trunk Show in Denver on October 10th! I hope to see you there!)

* That's me smiling big before the start of the show!



* A trio of jacks with overhead bats topped off my mom's cupcake stand. These guys were popular, and fortunately I made a few more for the Denver show! (I still need to paint them!!)



* More of my Halloween originals were displayed in rustic antique cubbies...



* BOO! An original ball ghost character and other sweet friends awaited collectors...



* An arrangement of my pressed paper illustrated owl ornaments were popular at the show! I made a few more for the Denver show too...



* Here's another peek at my Halloween folk art originals, perched and waiting to meet and greet!



* That's me and mom all decked out for Halloween! She was truly donning the orange and black from head to toe! After all, she's my Halloween Mommy as I was born on October 31st!



* JP sneaks a peek from behind the spooky window!



* More Halloween characters brought smiles and delight!



* Here's one of two collages, depicting fellow Halloween artists and their creations... I sure hope I captured everyone!



* And this second collage captures more of the enchanting creations...



* Lastly, here's a peek from Friday night after we set-up! Mom & Dad, living just minutes away, came to help!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN to all of YOU!






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Hallowbaloo Peek-a-BOO...

My oh My! My last blog post was 3 months ago! I guess it's about time I popped in for an update. It's evident that scheduling 2 Halloween art shows this year has kept me rather busy!! I think I spent my whole summer, crafting in the workshop! Now that September is here, the Hallowbaloo Show in Redmond, Washington is just around the corner.... I have been adding the final touches to this special collection and photographing them as I go. Although I have a few more to finish up, I thought I'd share a sneak peek-a-boo at some of these unique guys. I am taking over 30 one of a kind Halloween folk art sculptures as well as some handmade ornaments featuring my pressed paper illustrated designs. With my parent's house so close to the show, I will have my pick of some of mom's antique treasures to help prop my table and add interest to my display! (Thanks Mom!) So for now, I am focused on completing this collection and preparing for the journey. I look forward to seeing old friends, meeting online friends (finally in person) and making new friends too! See you soon!!!

For now, ENJOY this PEEK-a-BOO....



*  A sweet cat plays Peek-a-Boo, peering out of a pumpkin jack...



* A quartet of Jacks are topped with illustrated paper bats...



* A pair of Halloween hued bulldogs promise not to bite....



* Spooky fun egg cup characters raise their arms in Halloween glee...



* Bees can Bee for Halloween too!



* An autumn hued owl strikes a perched pose for Halloween...



* We've got a few sitters, just sittin' around!



* This Halloween carnival cat can balance!



* A jack-o'-lantern's container base is painted with a jolly melon man & face...



* Oh Bats!



* Two black cats grin with illustrated hats. "Happy Frank" in the foreground is my first "Folk Lantern!" I had visions of making an entire family of these folk lantern characters. But, after realizing how much time it took to create this concept, I only made two. An owl folk lantern counterpart will be headed to Denver's Halloween Trunk Show in October. (He still needs paint!) WISH me LUCK!

I hope to see you at one of my Halloween Shows this season!

Happy Haunting,
~ Johanna






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Workshop Peek-a-Boo!

It's about time for an artist update! My workshop is beginning to look a lot like Halloween! As I have decided to exhibit at 2 Halloween Art Events this year, I figure it's best to begin building my collection of October-themed originals now versus later. Before I forget, please mark your calendars for these 2 special events:

* 2nd Annual Hallowbaloo in Redmond, Washington

SEPTEMBER 19th, 2015 

* 10th Annual Halloween Trunk Show in Denver, Colorado

OCTOBER 10th, 2015

I know I have been a little distant and distracted with gardening projects around the house and designing art for licensing. So, I have not had much time to blog. However, I have been juggling my papier mache sculpts with all the rest. Here's a current sneak peek from the workshop of my one of a kind characters in the works. Keep in mind, these guys are unfinished as many need painted accents, trims, and other final touches. But, I thought I'd share my process. And yes, there are many more to come! So, if I disappear again, know I'm busy creating :)

Happy June to you, and I hope to see many of you this fall at my Halloween Art Shows!

Best Wishes,

~ Johanna 

* A couple of Halloween character busts in the works, pose with unfinished party hats....



* A sweet jack-o'-lantern ball character dons a lovely aged green hue.... The hand-sewn vintage crepe paper collar will soon decorate his neck, and maybe a thin bead of black glass glitter will trim the base of his stem...



* For this year's hat, I hand-illustrated a version of my flying witch design that appears on some of my graphic-designed products from my Primitives by Kathy collection. A variety of hat sizes, glued and sealed, are now closer to being ready to top some of my folk art sculptures!



* My ball characters are always a popular choice. This black cat ball is trying on a 2-toned vintage crepe paper collar for color-matching and size.



* A black bunny here and there always adds more variety to my Halloween mix! This guy dons a medley of painted sweets on his round-bellied base... I think he needs a collar too...



* Just another view of my handmade party hats! It looks like a conical parade is coming to town!



* Cover your eyes! This bat is bare! Sans his wire wings, he still needs an appointment with JP for final sanding, and then we'll take it from there!



* An owl with no eyes and missing wire wings and feet is wondering when the heck I will allow him to see! Looks like his buddy is one step ahead, but still cannot fly. I have my work cut out for me....

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Happy Halloween, Enter In...

My OH my, friends so dear,
HALLOWEEN is now here!
The hour is bewitching,
and Jack is itching (to show off his conical hat)
I also took photos by evening candlelight,
of vintage novelties and Halloween delight.
An October 31 birthday is ever so sweet,
as I'm often gifted a vintage Halloween treat!
We placed our corner cupboard inside for fun,
to fill it with pieces from my collection.
I also snapped a few photos during the day,
to share a small peek at my Halloween display.
I wish I had more time to festoon the whole place,
with orange and black decor, filling the space.
But, I have been quite busy making my art,
So, with limited time, this is a start….

Best Wishes to you for a Halloween so jolly!
May it be filled with smiles and sweet folly.

Happy Haunting,
~ Johanna



* Jack perches on a stool, wearing his new hat! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!



* Our corner cupboard at glance…. And yes, this is the same cupboard that we take to our shows to showcase my one of a kinds! It's typically stored away, but we decided to bring it indoors and fill it with Halloween delights. I have so many more Halloween pieces in my collection that I will just have to find myself an additional curio cabinet to display them all in!



* A peek up close reveals one of my original owl ball characters that I gave to JP as birthday present a few years ago. He's surrounded with vintage Halloween finds.



* Down below, a cloth pumpkin man with a walnut shell head was created and gifted to me by my mom! She also made the sweet woolen stitched pumpkin above, left. Vintage horns, noisemakers and other delights have appeared in packages at my doorstep by dear friends and thoughtful collectors who know that I love antique Halloween novelties.



* An old orange bird cage reveals one of my reproduction crows roosting inside. A vintage owl clicker suspends along the edge.



 * A grouping of my original candy containers that I have collected over the years, traipse across the top shelf. Below, a sweet papier mache "Bewitched" cat candy box was gifted to me by a dear artist friend, Kitty Nikolai of Sweet Invocations.



* Vintage jack-o'-lanterns grin and glow next to an old orange ceramic cat that I found at a garage sale.



* A closer peek reveals my cat, witch and crow trio tucked in the corner of the cabinet.



* An older original spider of mine sits atop a timeworn candy tin. Behind, vintage tin noisemakers are mixed with some of my Halloween art.



* A creepy cool Spooklight lantern suspending from a stylized bat are both designed by my fellow Halloween designer friend, Bindlegrim! I was lucky to snatch this set at this year's Halloween Trunk Show!



* Below on a stack of old suitcases, you'll find an original owl bust that I created a few years ago… "Wise 'ol Owlexander"



* And, here's another peek of our corner cupboard from the side… It's tempting to keep this out all year, as it's all eye candy to me...



* Looking across to the mantel, we see Jack wearing an orange crepe paper bow tie. To bring in a little Halloween cheer, I added some orange accents to the decor.



* I quickly turned my new "Trick or Treat" bag from Primitives by Kathy into a pillow by stuffing it with another pillow! (thanks Mom for the idea :) In the distance, our handmade fire screen mirrors the play on black cats…



* JP brought me home a bouquet of birthday flowers, so I added those to a Roseville vase. Two of my new Halloween stand-up characters from Primitives by Kathy add some seasonal spunk!



* A headless dress form serves as an unusual illumination along with a canvas to adorn for the season. I added my "Oh Bats" hanger and draped the bodice with an orange scarf that my mom gave me last year.



* An orange and black handmade basket from our close friends carries one of my new Halloween box signs, "Halloween is Calling."



* And, just a quick glance to the back sunroom invites those who enter to take a seat. Jack has clearly abandoned both his hat and tie to sit and relax for a little bird-watching fun. As our bittersweet vine turns golden outside, a pumpkin and a pair crows add some fall spirit to the inside scene.



* Once again, HAPPY HALLOWEEN!


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Collector Spotlight ~ Martha in So Cal, Part 2...

Well, the pleasure is all mine to post the Part 2 portion of Martha's Collector Spotlight! As a follow-up to last year's holiday feature, we are sharing with you Martha's Halloween folk art collection. This season, she has graciously taken some stunning photos around her home, sharing peeks at how she decorates with the Halloween originals that she collects. And, I hear that he son Connor, had a hand in the photo-taking fun! Together, they took existing photos, and then played with alternative arrangements to offer additional decorating ideas for you! I am honored to see so many of my one of a kind characters, gracing this lovely home and treasured by the family that dwells here. It is touching to see handmade art being appreciated and loved in this way. Martha collects from a variety of folk artists, and you will some of those handmade works in her photos shared. I want to extend my hearty thanks to Martha for sharing her home in two, lovely Collector Spotlight features! What a treat! So, let's begin with an Artist & Collector Q&A that will meander throughout this Halloween post. Enjoy!



J: How did you learn about my Halloween folk art?

Martha: I was sitting at my dining room table on my computer.  I have always loved decorating, for all seasons and holidays.  I was web surfing (this was before Etsy, Pinterest, etc) and I think I typed in Halloween folk art and found you!  I'm trying to remember if you were having a web sale at the time, or not but I know that I bought my first piece then!  I think that was 2006???

J: Yes, and I'm also thinking that maybe my feature in Better Homes & Gardens, way back when, could have led you my way as well. Whatever the magic was, we made the connection!



* Speaking of the dining room table, I really love this tabletop centerpiece! A decorative lazy-susan serves as a rotating display wheel for a grouping of Halloween delights. Included in the mix is a Halloween cat ball character original and a reproduction spider candle stick by Johanna Parker Design along with a sweet faced pumpkin by Jo James of Cart Before the Horse. Off in the distance, we see other seasonal vignettes that we will explore more along the way!



*And if we give that wheel a spin, more Halloween characters emerge! A spooky wire-winged bat with a #31 on his belly is an original by Johanna Parker Design. The pair of metal owls are from Pottery Barn and the winking jack-o'-lantern is another sweet piece from Jo James of Cart Before the Horse.



* Martha shares a closer look at a festive coffee table display! A collection of grinning jack-o'-lanterns by Tammy Strum of Light and Shadow Studio, nest in a leaf-filled primitive dough bowl. Above, a crate makes a rustic roost for an original moon man sitter by Johanna Parker Design. A beautiful bundle of wheat offers a harvest touch.



* A ladder-style shelf offers a high perch to group Martha's collection of my Egg & Kettle Cup characters. A ghost, bat, skelly and cats make for a fun family of little ones, lined up to delight!



* Peeking beyond the autumn leaves, a grinning Jack by Johanna Parker Design, flirts a little with the camera :)

J: How long have you been collecting my Halloween originals?

Martha: I think my first originals are from 2006, or 2007 at the latest.  I remember I sent you an email and you were so kind and happy that I loved your work!   (You included that first email in my Christmas Collector Spotlight post.....still blown away you had it and could find it!)

J: I do have a tendency to hang on to emails, and it's fun to go back and watch a relationship bloom! I'm so happy that you reached out to me!



* What a lovely corner this is for a pair of my original owls to call home! The warm fall hues of these feathered friends compliment the nostalgic framed typographic art. And Martha's autumn-inspired arrangements add a lovely texture and softness to this scene. Just beautiful! One of a kind owls by me at Johanna Parker Design.

* High up in a nook, we see a yummy Halloween scene in rich hues of orange and black! My Jack ball character glances up to a candlestick pumpkin by Ginny Diezel. A pretty ceramic pedestal ties the group together ever so nicely.



* Nestled amongst a collection of fabric pumpkins by Willow Creek Sparrow, one of my cat ball characters grins quite wide.

J: What is it about these characters that captures your imagination?

Martha: I just remember loving the feeling I felt when I saw them.  From the expressions on their faces to the current, yet retro feel.  The colors are always beautiful and I love the warmth they exude.  It's as if you can feel all the time and love that you put into them!!  I just love the holidays/seasons and each character that you paint, whether Halloween, Christmas, Spring, Vday, they all bring your whimsy to that season!  And they just bring me joy and make me smile!  :)

J: Well thank you for the sweet sentiment. I make pieces in a style and feel that I would be drawn too if I were hunting for treasures. I am happy to be able to capture that vintage charm and release that joy through my artistry. 



* Speaking of smiles, this sweet Frankenstien ball character - my first Frank - offers a sweet little smirk. He is carefully paired with a vintage green pumpkin by Willow Creek Sparrow for a lovely color duet.

J: Where have you had the best luck in acquiring my original Halloween pieces;

shows, web sales, Collector's Catch, eBay, etc?

Martha: I have never had the pleasure of going to the Halloween Trunk Show, Halloween and Vine or Ghoultide.  But I have gone to your Holiday Open House twice and bought plenty at your home!  I have had amazing luck with the Collector Catch!  I think I have a Johanna Sixth Sense and get an impulse to check your website! HAHA.....lucky me!  I have gotten one piece from your lucky list.  I have found some originals as they pop up on Ebay every now and then.  And, I am pretty quick and usually grab one at each websale! 

J: Yes, I think at times, that JPD Sixth Sense of yours has been strong! All in all, it looks like you have found success down the various avenues where I offer my folk art. I must admit that I have been absent lately from posting Collector's Catch pieces and chipping away at my Lucky List. Thanks for reminding me, as I need to put those back on my radar :)

* From Martha's mantel collection of Halloween cats, this close up reveals a trio of cats that date several years back. There is a noticeable difference (I hope) from my more primitively sculpted originals at the start of my career to the more refined work I do current day. It's fun to see the artistic progression.

J: Do you have a favorite piece in your Halloween collection?

Martha: Hmmm.....gosh I love them all!  Of my Halloween, one of my fav's is Dolly Crescent....she is the beautiful black and white candy container with the AMAZING moon on it. Not to mention the adorable mouse sitting on the moon.  I also especially love two of my shelf sitters: Full Moon Marcus (2008), probably no additional description needed of this moon man, and Vinny Vine (2012) a super cute JOL sitter with black and creme striped arms and legs!

J: I know, it's not a fair question. Each year, after making a collection of Halloween originals, it's always difficult for me to pick my favorite :)



* Here, at center is "Dolly Crescent", one of Martha's faves! Dolly crowns a collection of cats on the mantel. Drift wood risers, a pumpkin and a candle stand, all act as clever perches for these fun folk art characters. A painting of pumpkins by Carrie Huber of 40th and Plum, makes for a bold, graphic backdrop.




* At left along the mantel sits "Full Moon Marcus"once again. Another favorite find of Martha's, he sits with a companion carnival-style cat, both one of a kind sitters that I sculpted. I love the lantern style cabinet as both a display case and as an architectural backdrop for the scene.



* And then there's "Vinny Vine," another favorite from Martha's collection. Gathered in a nook with two of my ball character JOLs and a sweet jack-o'-lantern painting by Diane Duda, they all offer harvest cheer!

J: Is there anything in particular you suggest I try making in the future?

Martha: Loved that I had said reindeer at some point and you did!  Love that I said elves, as I know others did too, and you did!  And that I got the first ones of those!!!  Hmmmm.....I would love a Christmas Skunk!  They were my fav animals growing up and I think the black and white would be cute!  Also a huge chipmunk fan.....love the stripes!  Oh, and foxes are awesome too! Additionally now you did foxes!!!  I missed out on those this season as I couldn't make it to your Halloween Trunk Show.  So I guess I'm still pushing for a skunk, a chipmunk, and now how about a white fox for Christmas!!! 

J: Hey, that's good news that I am listening to my collectors. I know I haven't attempted a try at all the various suggestions that I receive, but I do like a good challenge! And when time and mood permit, I will give it a go. Yes, skunks, chipmunks and white foxes would be sweet!…. 

In following, I will share a few more arrangement ideas from Martha's lovely home. You will spy some of my previous pieces making appearances in new arrangements along with the clever works of fellow artist friends….



* It's a pumpkin patch, and props are certainly key to great composition. Here, Martha uses a vintage style cubby to display a line-up of my jack-o'-lantern ball characters below, while a sweet jack by Mandy Broome of Fiddlestix Studios perches above. A cart carrying a lumina Jack by Nancy Malay, tucks under a bundle of wheat. And, I spy my "Vinny Vine" sitter again, resting on the edge.



* These arched nooks in Martha's home are the perfect stage for a Halloween scene. Above, a pumpkin painting by Diane Duda adds color and a harvest motif. Below, a sweet jack scarecrow by Melissa Valeriote rests next to one of my JOL ball characters.



* OH Bats! These two bat originals by Johanna Parker Design get cozy with a carved pumpkin.



* And a HOOT HOOT here and a HOOT HOOT there…. What a fun collection of owls from various artists from left to right: Pumpkin perched owl - Jo James, Cart Before the Horse, Sculpted Owl on a mound - Johanna Parker Design, ceramic owl - unknown, Owl bust - Johanna Parker Design, hanging Owl bucket - David Everett of Chicken Lips, large Owl sculpture -  Lisa Bivona
And…..Count your Blessings the sign says!

I hope you enjoyed the tour of Martha's home for Halloween! I know I did! What a pleasure it is for me to see my handmade art and the wonderful creations of fellow artists living in harmony and all so lovingly arranged. Many thanks to Martha for opening her doors to us and inspiring many during this special season. I am honored to be a part of this lovely home.

To leave a message for Martha or myself, please click on the "comments" link at the bottom of this post. Thank you!

Happy Halloween,
~ Johanna