4th Annual Glens Art Walk!

It's official! We have a Date for this year's Glens Art Walk! Mark your Calendars for Saturday, October 13th in historic Lakewood, Colorado. Join us for another round of Halloween delights, both signed reproductions and one of a kind original sculptures. Find all the details along with photos from last year's show on our Events page.



Until then, have a Spooky Summer!

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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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

Halloween Trunk Show Ten!...

Wow, really it's been 10 Years already?! My how time flies when you are having fun, creating Halloween art! Well, another Halloween Trunk Show has come and gone. We were blessed with a warm, sunny day and lots of happy collectors! I so appreciate all my peeps for coming out to say hi, visit and share in the Halloween delights. Thanks for being an integral part of this past decade. We all touch each other's lives in one way or another. I am honored that my art has brought us together, and I hope it always makes you smile :)

I snapped as many photos as I could before the garage door rolled up and the Halloween fans poured in. Enjoy a glimpse of yesterday's memories and until next time, Happy Halloween my friends!



* You can see how excited I was to have everything all set up and in place just moments before the garage door opened :)



* And look at the fun rusty wagon rig JP assembled for this year's limited edition crows! Some of you probably spotted him on Facebook, putting it together in our backyard :)



* We added an old shelf prop to this year's display from our outdoor tent-show days. It allowed me to create more space for my originals!



* Eye candy candles, owls, ornaments, ghosts and witches - oh my!



* My new line of Halloween candles from Aunt Sadie's  added a fun new element and scent to my Halloween collection! We had one burning, and lots were loving the fall aroma, wafting through the air..



* Pillows, totes and notepads with my vintage style Halloween designs were delighting shoppers. Can you spot Mr. Tinkles trying to eat one of my ornaments? What a crazy guy!



* Black feather trees trimmed with owls and other spooks set a festive scene!



* And once again, the lovely Kara Rosenberry was one of my trunk show neighbors!



* Kara has a charming sense about her illustrative work, and she blends it with rustic vintage treasures for that nostalgic feel... Look at those sweet clever cards & whatnots...



* And to my other side was Mr. Christmas (aka Mr. Tinkles - which I infamously coined!) along with his lovely lady, Mandy Yocom. Look how adorable they are!



* Here, Mr. Tinkles tinkers with his mesmerizing miniatures...



* A visit in person is recommended to see Mr. Tinkles' lively creations that light up, animate, twinkle and glow! They will bring the inner child right back out of ya!



* I loved the art-on-a-line look of Mandy Yocom's display! From Fern & Sprout, her colorful, whimsical paintings pair well with her felt & fabric fashion accessories.



* Mandy makes rosettes for the hair, shoes and lapel that really add character and vintage style to your wardrobe... And you gotta love a few creepy baby dolls to add a little spooky to the scene!



* Monica Moonlight sneaks a peek while arranging her table of spooky fun clay creations and fabric delights... Look at all the fun pattern and color!



* This year, Holly Kusterer of Paint Happy Designs and biz partner Barabara Stark joined us for some Halloween fun. Holly is a familiar face, appearing often on KUSA's Colorado & Co.'s show for design & crafting ideas!



* And the Trunk Show was all the better with Bindlegrim himself, joining us once again from New Mexico. He's the talent behind the Trunk Show's Website design and this year's post card & poster graphic!



* Bindlegrim brought along a new family of limited edition Beasties too! Love these!



* Around the corner I caught Heide Murray of All Good Wishes striking a pose... or perhaps I persuaded her to! She makes the most delightful felted character with vintage charm!



* Felted ghosts, bunnies, jacks, turnips and all sorts of imaginative guys were ready to greet collectors!



* We had a slew of young entrepreneurs exhibiting their wares at this year's Trunk Show, and two of which were Heide's daughters grinning big with their "All Little Wishes" line of designs! Adorable :)



* Next to the Murray girls was Zack sharing his woodworks! What a cutie he was with his long brown locks and stylin' fedora!



* And the Robinson & McNeish daughters shared an imaginative collection of handmade robot style characters made from old kitchenware! FUN! I do love how the Halloween Trunk Show nurtures the budding imaginations of children. That's how I got bit by the crafting bug many years ago.... (thanks mom!)



* Across from the crafty kiddos was an enchanting collection of papier mache characters from Cindy Habermann. She somehow escaped my camera this year, but I snagged some pics of her art! Even though she now lives in Minnesota, we had the pleasure of seeing her at this year's show in Denver.



* Gourd guys, owls, cats and other spooks are just some of the fun characters that I spotted in Cindy's booth...



* Jacks and bats on old blocks and vintage tins give an age-old flare to her characters.



* And upon entering the garage, Sam Robinson of Manorisms had her Halloween inspired goods arranged like a general store! It's always fun to see what clever finds she has in store...



* Decorated skulls with polka-dotted bows and bags of spooky bugs likely had the kiddos excited!





* Jars topped with animals and filled with wooden game pieces just make you smile...



* More handmade orange & black goodies greeted guests!



* Smiling bright was Erica McNeish with all of her tasty treats and sweets! Shoppers gobbled up her goodies well before the end of the day...



* And enter the collectors anxious for some handmade Halloween folk art collectibles!





* As you can see, we were blessed with a warm, sunny day! Despite the fall theme, people were wearing shorts!



* Again, many THANKS to all of you that came from both near and far to join us for Year 10!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
~ Johanna & JP

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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