Crafting with Mom again...

The last few days have been a rare treat as my parents have been visiting JP and myself, here in Colorado. Together, we have been sharing memories, laughing and bouncing creative ideas off of one another. With their pending visit in mind, I took some much needed time to clean up my workshop. Wow, what a mess it was! Fortunately, I was able to find my worktable underneath layers of stuff, and  mom and I spent a few hours crafting. I was working on the base coats on a new Rhyme Time original piece, slated to sell this summer while mom brought a bag of woolen textiles to sew into keepsakes for her Kathy Parker Collection. It was fun, and it reminded me of the good 'ol days growing up and joining her at the kitchen counter to work on creative projects together. Of course, JP took the opportunity to catch us in the act, and soon we found ourselves elevating our level of silliness as the camera lens spied on our activities. Now, my parents have already left for home, and I'm sitting here enjoying the photos and wishing they lived closer. For now, I thought it would be a treat to share a few images from yesterday's fun in the workshop. Here's hoping that we will have more opportunities to craft together in the future.......

Best wishes,
~ Johanna


* After a few eye-watering moments of laughter, the two of us settled down for a sweet photo together...
(This one would have been perfect for my Mother's Day post!)


* Earlier, JP snapped a few funny overheads which made it difficult to concentrate on our work...


* Peek-a-boo!


* "Now get serious girls"..... I'm painting a one of a kind Halloween bulldog character, while mom works on a Valentine's keepsake. Clearly, we do not work with the current seasons.... haha!


* Mom joins me by my side for a closer look at my dry-brushing technique...


* Looks like we couldn't keep a straight face for too long :)

Celebrating Mom!...

Mom often says it's that creative connection that ties us together despite the long physical distance that we are apart. Often it seems each one of us is creating along the same wavelength, albeit miles apart and in our separate studios. The other day, owls were the theme, and it was fun to find that each one of us had been designing little hoot-hoots simultaneously and unknown to the other..... This past December, it was a treat to have mom in town for our holiday home show! We rarely get the chance to have our photo taken together, so this is a special one.

Best wishes to you Mom. Thank you for sharing your creative spirit with me, and I look forward to sharing more joyful occasions with you, whether near or far, in the days to come.

Love,
~ Johanna :)

AUTUMN is here!...

...AUTUMN with Matthew Mead Magazine, that is...... I just received my copy before the labor day holiday, so I have had a chance to peek at the lovely fall-themed pages of this collector's book-azine. This issue has extra special meaning to me as I am one of Matthew's style contributors. Fortunately, I had the unique opportunity to document and share a very special Halloween event within its pages. Allow me to entice you with a few teaser images from my 8-page spread, but trust me when I say that it's best enjoyed in your hands and in its entirety!...




* Above, is a snapshot of Matthew's harvest-hued cover atop a grouping of mom's delectable sweets that she baked for her Halloween Collectors Event....



* Yep, that's me being my silly spooky self, standing before a table of my Halloween creations that I shared for an audience of passionate collectors...



* Who's that?  Well, it's Mark Craven of Craven Farm sharing his love for vintage Halloween collectibles to the Washington state Country Collectors Group...



* I spy the costume-bedecked Bruce Elsass of the Hobgoblins Collection in his yellow and black Halloween prints. A tease of Halloween collectibles leave you wanting to see more, I hope! And, look at mom's "Autumn Crow" folk art original pillow.... Sweet!

AUTUMN with Matthew Mead Magazine is an Order Only publication, so snag one for yourself today before they are all gone! CLICK here to Order Yours :) Of course, I am a wee bit partial to the Trick-or-Treat article starting on page 20, but the whole issue is a treat! Enjoy........... OH, and if you missed it, make sure to scroll down to my August 9th blog posting where I share additional photos that we took at this memorable Halloween event... If you have made plans to attend one of the 2 Halloween folk art shows I will be exhibiting at, please bring your copy with you, and I promise to sign it....

Many thanks to Matthew Mead once again for allowing me to bring this special Halloween story to you!

Happy Haunting,
~ Johanna


Photography © Johanna Parker Design, LLC & Matthew G. Mead Productions, Ltd.

Autumn with Me & Matthew Mead!...

For a few months now I have been keeping something exciting and very dear under wraps. But, now with fall fast approaching, it is time to let that cat out of its bag! And the scoop is that I am honored to be a style contributor for AUTUMN with Matthew Mead Magazine!



Thanks to the magical web of Facebook and a shared passion for Halloween, Matthew and myself connected and became friends. I quickly realized that he was an admirer of my Halloween folk art and I too of his Halloween themed articles, projects and books that he is certainly well known for. When my mom learned of this new friendship, she began to scheme and dream as she (and I) often do. Scheduled on her fall calendar was a fantastical Halloween event she promised to host within the decorated walls of her colonial style home. It would be a gathering of like-minded souls, sharing a passion for all things October 31st with an emphasis on collecting. I was to be one of the 3 surprise guest speakers presenting Halloween delights to the Country Collectors, a long-standing group of Washington-based friends that collect antiques and the like.... But, besides hosting the event, the idea to document and publish this one of a kind day began to haunt my mother, and naturally, she began to haunt me!

After mom had convinced both myself and JP to fly out for this unique experience, she charmed the hearts of both our friends, Bruce Elsass and Mark Craven to join us in presenting to the group. With Mark's prized collection and knowledge of vintage Halloween novelties, Bruce's vintage costumes and current product designs and my Halloween folk art collectibles, it made for a well-rounded group of Halloween hot shots!  And with everyone on board, we were destined to create a very noteworthy day. Fortunately, Matthew Mead was also intrigued by the idea, so with little time to spare, it was up to us to capture the moment!



I am happy to report that mom's dream truly did become reality! And, if you ask any one of the guest collectors in attendance, they would tell you that it was a magical day indeed. Eyes were bright with delight, while laughter and smiles filled the home. The happy spirit of Halloween was ever present, and the day was truly a treat for all. JP and myself spent countless hours photographing the decor, displays, the food and the presentations in hopes that we could indeed document the event for the opportunity to share it with Matthew's readers.

And guess what?  That opportunity will soon be here! Matthew and his design team are putting the finishing touches on his Autumn issue as I type. The only way you can enjoy his fall issue for yourself is to order your copy directly from Matthew's Website. This Autumn Holiday is destined to be a collectible book-azine as its his last self-published edition before he hits the newsstands with his winter Holiday issue up next! So, I suggest that you order your copy now before they sell out, as numbers are limited.

Matthew Mead's Autumn will be shipping out in early September. In the meantime, I thought it would be fun to offer you a glimpse of the event to pique your curiosity. Since we snapped so many photos, I have extras to share that were not selected for publication. But wait till you see the multiple page spread that Matthew and his design team compiled for us! I can't wait to hold it in my hands, and I am just tickled to think that he included us in his first ever HOLIDAY with Matthew Mead Autumn magazine  :)



* My mom, Kathy Parker, proudly introduces the guest speakers to a captive audience...



* Mark Craven of Craven Farm in Snohomish, Washington talks passionately about his love for vintage Halloween collectibles.....



* Bruce Elsass of the Hobgoblins Collection reveals his fabulous collection of vintage Halloween costumes and had the guests rolling in laughter...



* I share the story of my career path that has led me down a spooky-fun trail of Halloween Folk Art and product design...



* We filled one of mom's antique cupboards with just a sampling of Mark's vintage collectibles from his astounding collection of over 3,000 pieces!



* On the opposite side of the room, we loaded on old corner cupboard with the various delights that Bruce Elsass brought with him, all the way from Connecticut! Here stands one of his latest vintage-inspired Halloween figures from his product line, destined for the mass retail market.



* In the dining room, Mom had harvest tables and sideboards filled with edible delights. In this space, she also filled a corner cupboard with some of the items from her own Halloween collection. Can you spot some of my reproductions?



* In the kitchen, an antique tray of mom's homemade cookies beckoned guests to enjoy a sweet or two or three! The recipes will be included in AUTUMN with Matthew Mead Magazine...



So, would you like to see and read lots more about this memorable day? Then, order your copy of AUTUMN with Matthew Mead Magazine!
Oh, and bring it to one my upcoming Halloween shows, and I will sign your copy too :)

Happy Haunting,
~ Johanna

Was it a Halloween Dream?...

Wheewww, we just returned from a whimsical weekend in Washington where the mood was all things Halloween! For weeks upon weeks, mom was preparing for our visit and decking the house in orange and black delights. Everything smelled of spicy-sweet Witch's Brew, and yummy treats made from the Parker cauldron were ready to be served. Naturally, we put on our festive Halloween attire to celebrate the season...



The spellbinding aroma of sugary delights filled the air. Chocolate bonbons, orange bark candy, iced cookies, ginger bars and Halloween cupcakes lured me in to take a bite....



Soon, I was under a Halloween spell and the Hobgoblin himself arrived to start the party. Bells began to jingle and the wild dancing began.....



Guests began to arrive, and all to celebrate my most favorite holiday with me!



Then, the Pumpkin-Patch King, dressed as a scarecrow, knocked on the door, and I let him in too....



Preparing for the party, he and the Hobgoblin smoothed my hair and the Pumpkin-Patch King secured my party hat with a bow beneath my chin...



We laughed and shared stories of Halloweens past. Giddy with treats and overjoyed to be together, the day swept by, and soon I was waking up. Was it a dream??

On the following morning, I asked my parents if we could go to the Pumpkin King's Patch, and so we headed down a winding fall road to visit his farm. Whimsy once again filled the air with smiles and silliness all about...



He had grown pumpkins of many colors and shapes, bumpy and smooth, mini to massive and all in between...



We visited the barn to meet the critters within. JP had a close encounter with a loud squawking goose and what looks to be a bright, dashing spirit which revealed itself within our lens!... Spooooky!



I posed with the pumpkins, and felt a wee bit nostalgic remembering those childhood days out at the pumpkin patch! What fun!.....



It was certainly a weekend not to forget, but it all flew by in such a frenzied blur! Was it a dream... ? No, I think it certainly did happen and what fun we all had.... I hope to reveal more of this whimsical weekend down the road, so stay tuned. For now, allow your imagination to soar! Happy Halloween!

~ Johanna

Mom is Back!...

Well, I have some fun news to share! My mom, that's Kathy Parker to you, is a new product designer for Primitives by Kathy! The first seven of her items just came out in PBK's 2010 Supplement. I have a sneak peek below of her charming designs along with their corresponding item numbers in case you want to order a few for yourself!



* Of course, I love this Spooky Pillow for Halloween!...

Mom is certainly the force behind my passion for folk art today. When I was little, I remember her weaving all sorts of unusual items from contemporary wall art to Santas. Her style evolved when the country movement hit the 1980s. She was always on the hunt for cutter quilts and accessories to add to her country dolls, and she taught me what to look for too. Soon, I was wanting to try my hand at crafting, and I found myself sewing samplers and patched art pillows. Together we sold our handmade items at local craft fairs, and really enjoyed sharing our creations with others who appreciated our work. Along the way, I branched off and grew fond of the papier mache and paints while mom continued to sew her one of a kind delights. So, we each have our own niche, but we certainly enjoy the art of crafting together.

When my family was relocated to Seattle about 8 years ago, mom's life drastically changed. Not knowing anyone in her surroundings, she poured her creative energy into making her new house a home, repainting room after room and decorating with her colonial touch. But soon she took on the honorable role as my grandfather's caregiver for the last few years of his life. He became her priority, and all else including her art were left in the past. After his passing, the house felt empty and mom was not in a place to create. Luckily with time there is healing, and I urged mom to delve back into her fabric arts and to tap back into that creative bliss that she now enjoys today. Obviously, she did, and I am so happy that her love for crafting has returned! She inspired me years ago, and I like to think that I have returned the favor by inspiring her :)

A big CONGRATS goes out to you Mom as you embark on this exciting creative path, and I know your sweet designs will bring many smiles to many people for years to come!

* These are too cute for the holidays! To see Kathy Parker's current line of products, CLICK HERE!



What's next on her list you ask...? Well, I suggest she starts her own blog! Mom, it's about time :) Cheers to you!

With love,

~ Johanna

PS.... Did you see mom's holiday home feature in Country Sampler Magazine last year? If not, take a peek HERE!

* © 2010 Kathy Parker *Designs and concepts are the property of Kathy Parker and may not be used without permission

The Art of the Matter & GiveAway!...

FaaaLaaLa.........



I know it is still October, and we are ALL feeling that Halloween spirit in the air. But, I have been anxious to share with you some very exciting news! Turn to page 18 in the current November / December issue of Country Sampler Magazine. It has been out on the stands for almost a month now, and I urge you to pick up a copy for yourself as soon as you can because my mother's holiday folk art and colonial-style decorating are featured in a 10 page article! It is just fabulous! We are both so pleased as the editors included so many fun images of our Christmas folk art along with all sorts of wonderful decorating ideas from mom. To continue the excitement, both myself and my mom are contributing signed, holiday folk art in a special GiveAway Contest offered by Country Sampler! Keep scrolling to see the Kathy Parker original folk art snowman that will be awarded to a lucky winner! As for my contribution, I am offering a signed Santa candy container from my Bethany Lowe Designs line, and a signed belsnickel from my Primitives by Kathy line - both appearing in the magazine! Below, you will only find a tease of what is featured in this inspirational article. ENJOY, and please find yourself a copy, a cozy chair, some hot chocolate and a little time to just pour over all the delights! Many thanks to the very kind staff at Country Sampler for sharing this article with so many. And, another big thanks goes out to my friends “photographer/stylist/writer” duo Donna Pizzi and Philip Clayton-Thompson of Blackstone Edge Studios who did my mom's photo shoot! It looks wonderful and so very inviting..... ~ Johanna


* A primitive wooden washtub holds a live tree, decorated with all sorts of handmade ornaments...


* One of my original Santa candy containers marks this page showing my parents' living room filled with holiday folk art collectibles...


* An earlier Snowman original of mine adds a festive touch to this page featuring my mom's colonial mantel and hearth, beaming with holiday spirit...


* A trio of my papier mache belsnickels offered by Primitives by Kathy proudly stand at center between two inviting pineapples... To order my belsnickels, CLICK here!


* A fun grouping of snowmen that both my mom and I have created over the years... Some go way back!


* Page 25 features our trio of GiveAway items! Sign up today by visiting the image and links below ~ Good Luck! :)


* All entries must be received by November 30th, so hop on
over to Country Sampler's contest page and sign up to WIN!

Hope you enjoyed the tease! As this is a 10 page article, there are lots more photos for you to enjoy, so look for your copy today :)

PHOTOGRAPHS, © 2009 Emmis Publishing LP

Colonial Halloween at Mom's...

As busy as this month has been, I focused my energy making Halloween fun for others rather than decorating my home... (hopefully next year, I will have more time :) However, my mom has been decorating her colonial-style home up in Washington state with her growing collection of orange and black delights!...On display this month at the Parker's house is a fun variety of folk art pieces that we both have made over the years. She sent me these photos recently, and I thought I would share them with you! ENJOY.....

~ Johanna


* The russet red-colored walls of their dining room is the perfect backdrop for a Halloween harvest theme...


* A fun collection of my Halloween ornaments dangle from a spooky grouping of twigs...


* A smiling jack-o'-lantern reproduction design of mine peers out of a cupboard nook...


* The jack-o'-lantern candle holder and black cat candy bowl are ready to greet friends and trick-or-treaters... These designs of mine are offered thru Primitives by Kathy...


* A work in progress hooked piece that mom designed and is currently working on... cute!....


* A pair of papier mache characters I sculpted a few years back join in with mom's yellow ware collection and her hand-painted Halloween lids...


* A cozy Halloween hearth welcomes all who enter... at second glance I ponder what is growing in the baby cradle??!!! he he...


* A pilgrim-style witch bust I sculpted a couple of years ago fits right in with mom's colonial home character...


* Another hooked piece mom made decorates a primitive tabletop in the foreground...


* Here stand two candy containers of mine that now live with mom... The one at left was my first owl piece ever and has inspired many more since!...


* Speaking of owls, this one is a reproduction design of mine, offered thru Primitives by Kathy...


* A grouping of Halloween pillows, designed and created by mom.. What fun!


* This piece has a history indeed!... Mom and I sat down to sculpt about 6 years ago, and I created this cat in a jack... In the process, I realized how much I missed the tactile arts for at the time, I was a corporate designer, working in TV news graphics... After adding the paint, my cat came to life and what a thrill! (today he seems pretty crude, but at the time, I was inspired) Of course, he needed a necklace to finish his look. Mom only had tin snips, so off I went to play with wire and.... Oouch! I sliced open my hand with those snips! So, needless to say, I was rushed to the hospital and stitched up like Frankenstein. Obviously, it didn't stop me though!... :)~