Halloween Blog Sale!

Welcome Friends to my Halloween Blog Sale!
Tonight I am offering a variety of my signed reproductions. Please take a look, and if anything interests you, EMAIL ME the name of the piece/s that you would like to adopt! Quantities are limited, so don't delay. If you receive a confirmation email from me that I have reserved your items, please respond with your shipping information, specifying if it's a residence or business, so that I can acquire a UPS estimate for your delivery. I will be sending out electronic invoices once I have your goodies all boxed up! THANK YOU for joining me for this special sale! ALSO, hop on over to my WEB SALE  in case you would like to acquire one of my Halloween originals…..

Happy Haunting,
~ Johanna

  Spooky Owl Bucket  ($43 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

Owl Bucket:  5.75" tall / 10.5" tall with handle (paper pulp)

 ~ Signed by Artist ~

 Owl Bucket © Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Halloween Lantern Pair  ($42 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

Owl & Cat Lantern  4" tall x 4" wide x 4" deep / 7" tall with handle (metal)

Happy Jack Lantern  4.5" tall x 4" wide x 4" deep / 7.5" tall with handle (metal)

Each comes with glass votive & candle

~ Signed by Artist ~

Lanterns © Johanna Parker for Primitives by Kathy

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Spider & Ghost Pair  ($94 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

Spider:  9.5" tall x 7" wide (paper pulp)

Ghost:  8.5" tall x 5.25" wide (paper pulp)

~ Each Signed by Artist ~

© Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Owl Lovers Set  ($52 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

"Hootin' Halloween" Sign:  2.75" tall x 5" wide (wood)

Owl Bucket:  5.75" tall / 10.5" tall with handle (paper pulp)

"Whoo's out there?" Sign:  4" tall x 4" wide (wood)

 ~ All Signed by Artist ~

 Owl Bucket © Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

Ornament Signs © Johanna Parker for Primitives by Kathy

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Witchy Trio  ($42 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

"31 October" Hanging Hat Sign:  14" tall x 13" wide x 0.375" deep (wood)

 Witch notepad with magnet on back (paper)

"Sit for a Spell" Box Sign:   9" tall x 8" wide x 1.75" deep (wood)

~ Wood items Signed ~

 © Johanna Parker for Primitives by Kathy

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Lone Spider  ($52 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

Spider:  9.5" tall x 7" wide (paper pulp)

~ Signed by Artist ~

© Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Box Sign Trio  ($49 plus shipping)

{ SOLD OUT }

"Happy OWL o'Ween" Sign:  8" tall x 4.5" x 1.75" deep (wood)

"Sit for a Spell" Box Sign:   9" tall x 8" wide x 1.75" deep (wood)

"BOO!" Cat Box Sign:  6" tall x 5" wide x 1.75" deep (wood)

 ~ All Signed by Artist ~

Box Signs © Johanna Parker for Primitives by Kathy

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Black Cat Lovers Set  ($82 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

"Bugs and Hissies" Sign:  4" tall x 4" wide (wood)

Spooky Cat Ornament:  3.5" tall by 2.5" wide (paper pulp)

Cat Bucket:  5.75" tall / 10.5" tall with handle (paper pulp)

"BOO!" Cat Box Sign:  6" tall x 5" wide x 1.75" deep (wood)

 ~ All Signed by Artist ~

Cat Ornament & Cat Bucket © Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

Ornament Sign & Box Sign © Johanna Parker for Primitives by Kathy

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Pumpkin Jack Set  ($51 plus shipping):

{ SOLD OUT }

"Harvest Your Seeds" Sign:  4" tall x 4" wide (wood)

Jack-o'lantern Man Ornament:  4" tall by4" wide (resin & wire)

Happy Jack Lantern  4.5" tall x 4" wide x 4" deep / 7.5" tall with handle (metal)

JOL Treat Bag:  13.5" tall x 11.5" wide (bag)

 ~ Sign, Ornament & Lantern, Signed by Artist ~

Jack-o'lantern Man Ornament © Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

Ornament Sign, Lantern & Treat Bag © Johanna Parker for Primitives by Kathy

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Halloween Ornament Trio  ($64 plus shipping):

Featured in Country Sampler Magazine!

{ SOLD OUT }

Each Ornament:  3.5" tall by 2.5" wide (paper pulp)

~ Each Signed by Artist ~

© Johanna Parker for Bethany Lowe Designs

*--------*--------*--------*--------*--------*

Thank you for your interest :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Tales from the Halloween Trunk Show...

Whew, after months of preparations, I am finally catching my breath! Saturday's Halloween Trunk Show was here and gone in a flash. Our morning began with our 4-hour frenzied routine to unload, arrange, decorate and prepare for the big day! And on queue as usual, I had about 5 minutes to spare to change my clothes and rush around to snap some quick photos before the door opened! So, I am sharing with you those pics. I know I missed a few of my fellow artist friends, but that is only because the clock was ticking too fast! Many many THANKS goes out to our dear collector friends who made the journey from both near and far to join us! It is always a treat to see your smiling faces. Thank you for your support and admiration for my folk art creations. And, another BIG THANKS goes out to Sam Robinson for putting together another memorable trunk show!

For those who missed this delightful event, please check back later this week as I will be hosting a Halloween Blog Sale here with my remaining signed Halloween reproductions. See you then!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
~ Johanna



~ That's me, looking rather wiped out after that frantic push to get all the pieces and parts put together!



~ Here's a fun trio pic of this year's new Halloween buckets from my line of Bethany Lowe Designs...



~ And, a quick glance looking into my booth right before show time….



~ A Halloween tree is adorned with my latest ornament balls that were featured in Country Sampler Magazine this fall...



* A pair of my reproduction ghosts from Bethany Lowe Designs appear to be "booing" at us...



~ These new lanterns were a fun addition to my product line! Screen printed metal and equipped with votive slot and candle, these cuties from my Primitives by Kathy line were crowd-pleasing!



~ Ornament signs, featuring my new graphic designs, were hanging around on an old orange bird cage...



~ A rusty old gate served as a great display for more of these new Halloween-inspired hangers...



~ And off to the side, JP was preparing all the show technology! Thank goodness for his help!



~ "Halloween is Calling"….. just one of several new box signs of mine making a debut at the Trunk Show...



~ Across the way, Mr. Binglegrim was making spooky faces! We were happy to have him out this year  to unveil his spooky cool  collectible Spooklights and such...



~ He is also the designer of our #9 Halloween Trunk Show post cards, posters and website graphics! Thank you Bindlegrim!!!



~ And another Spooklight peek….



~ Next to me was Kara Rosenberry with her delightfully clever cards and whatnots….  Her set-up was a breeze, and she pretty much put us to shame… hehe! But, we still love her…. (just a little envious)



~ A collection of Kara's sweet cards in hues of Halloween, thoughtfully tied with ribbons and string...



~ Hand-painted plaques celebrating October, were resting on old folding chair…



~ And to our side was Mr. Christmas who was standing sideways! What a silly Mister…!



~ He brought along his amazing vintage-themed miniatures, housed in retro radios, glowing with lights and sounds….. OH so much fun! He loves to tinker….



~ More Mr. Christmas goodies were housed in glass vessels, old phones, lanterns and alarm clocks it seems, each creating its own miniature scene...



~ And to his side was a delicious display of handmade fashion accessories by the lovely Mandy Yocom of Fern and Sprout ...



~ She had all sorts of pretties to wear in your hair or clip on your shoes, lapel or wherever you wish!



~ We also enjoyed seeing Monica Moonlight again with her spooky fun clay and fabric delights! Her mini characters will light up a smile!



~ Heidi Murray of All Good Wishes had an adorable display of her needle felted vintage style characters! Looks like I captured one of her little helpers, wearing a crown.



~ A closer peek at Heidi's work reveals imaginative characters in whimsical scenes! Great colors too!



~ Across the way, Heidi's daughter was selling her own necklaces which reminded me of the 'ol days when mom and I would sell our crafts at various art markets!



~ Towards the front, Cindy Habermann had her holiday folk art characters arranged and ready to share… What fun!



~ Expressive jack-o'-lanterns pushing wheel barrows, party owls, bunnies and cats in fun colors were sure to make many a'smile...



~ Ghosts and gourds, witches and cats were popping out of boxes too…



~ Sam Robinson, aka Manorisms and trunk show promoter, had a booth filled with Halloween eye candy near the front door!



~ Pretty glass jars filled with tasty eats and sweets filled cubbies add shelves - a Taste of Halloween!



~ Candy-filled cats, owl buckets and masks were peeking out of an old plant stand...



~ An antique ironing board carried rows of candles and other novel treats… (great props!)



~ Sam's menagerie of Halloween goods is always a feast for the eyes… I bet the kiddos go nuts for it!



~ And Sam's daughter looked to have caught that crafty, creative bug, selling her own handmade wares as well!



~ Last, but not least, we have Erica McNeish with her tempting treats and tasty eats! She might have been giving me the evil eye, but it was all in good fun :)



~ One quick photo of the Halloween market from the front door…..



~ And look at this little cutie who picked out one of my new Trick or Treat bags for herself! What a doll, boots and all :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN to YOU!

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Spooky Sneak Peek!

Well, it's that time of year again! I am counting down the last few days before the 9th Annual Halloween Trunk Show opens this Saturday! Today, I added the final touches to this year's collection of Halloween originals, and then they each smiled for the camera. At last, I will have 35 one of a kinds to share with collectors this weekend, and below is a sneak peek at some of these special collectibles. I hope you will join us this Saturday to meet them in person and also enjoy all the Halloween eye candy from a variety of artisan vendors that make this show so very unique! Beyond my collection of originals, I will also have a festive medley of my signed reproductions and illustrated notepads, all donning orange and black! Denver's Halloween Trunk Show is a free event located in Leo's pristine garage on historic S. Pearl Street. Bring your family and friends for a spooktacular fall experience!

See you soon!
~ Johanna




























HOOT HOOT!  Happy Halloween to you!  :)

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Mark your Calendars!

I'm gearing up for Denver's 9th Annual Halloween Trunk Show on Saturday, October 11th… It's just about a month away. So, save the date! In the meantime, I will be busy in the workshop, finishing my collection of Halloween originals and sifting through my latest reproductions, signing and packing them  up for the show. Hope to see you next month!

Visit the Halloween Trunk Show's WEBSITE for more details…..

Happy Haunting,
~ Johanna

On the Ball!...

It's August, and I am definitely in full swing Halloween mode! My collection of one of a kind folk art characters is slowly building as I anticipate a large shipment of my licensed Halloween collectibles to soon arrive. So, I will be sculpting and painting originals while unpacking and signing my reproductions. And here's some fun news… My Halloween ball ornament trio that I designed for Bethany Lowe's 2014 season are featured right now in the September issue of Country Sampler Magazine! Turn to page 10 to see these fun characters, and email me if you are interested in adopting a set. I will be signing and shipping these pieces, and please note that quantities are limited. I hope to bring a few sets with me to this year's 9th Annual Halloween Trunk Show here in Denver too.


* Here's a close up teaser of these delightful ornaments. For more details you can visit my Folk Art Reproductions page.



* And, a peek at the Country Treasures section of Country Sampler Magazine reveals these jovial characters!

HOOT HOOT * Happy 4th of July!

Here's wishing you a very Happy 4th of July from Johanna Parker Design! May it be star-spangled and filled with fire-crackin' fun!

Cheers,
~ Johanna, JP & Jack



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Star Spangled Web Sale!

I set a date! Mark your calendar for the evening of Wednesday, June 18th. Just one week from today, I will be hosting my Star Spangled Web Sale on my Folk Art Originals Page. This small collection of 9 one of kind Americana characters will be available. For more information, including the sale's start time, etc… please Join our Mailing List! (If you have already joined, there is no need to join again. You will be receiving our newsletter soon!) In the meantime, here is a fuzzy sneak peek of my red, white and blue crew!

See you on the 18th!

Best Wishes,
~ Johanna

Mixing it up with Red, White & Blue!

Hello friends! I know it has been far too long since I have blogged. I miss writing and sharing photos of my work, and I miss having the extra time to do so. Thus far, this year has been a busy one, brimming with creative projects, family visits and volunteering for the community. I told JP that we really needed to snap a few quick pics in the workshop just to reassure folks afar that we are still alive and creating! So, today, JP captured a few photos while I added the final layers of papier mache patch to my in-progress collection of patriotic characters. The Americana-themed subject matter is a rare genre for me as I often jump directly from spring to Halloween. But, the requests from collectors to make a few red, white a blue guys have begun to echo more and more. So, I set the orange and black paints aside for a palette more reminiscent of 4th of July! I look forward to painting these pieces soon and watching them come to life! Currently, I have nine pieces in the works. The plan is to host an Americana Web Sale in mid to late June. So, stay tuned for more information to come! And Join my Mailing List if you have not done so. Enjoy the photos, and thank you for taking the time to visit my blog!

Wishing you a Happy Summer!

~ Johanna



* There I am filling in the voids and smoothing out the face of a Lady Liberty bust. Each piece goes through a process of many layers of papier mache between periods of drying...



* More patching was also necessary for an Uncle Sam ball character underway. As I do not use underlying forms, manufactured spheres, etc… to build my pieces, each has a hand formed feel. I do try my best to even out the ball characters to balance their appearance. Some may notice that my folk art is organic in form.



* Here is a sneak peek at pair of patriotic egg cup characters. JP just finished sanding these little guys, and they have been yearning for paint!



* And of course, Americana art is not complete without a bald eagle!

To keep in touch with my progress, make sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram….

Have a Purrrfect Mother's Day!

Here's wishing all our Dear Mom's a very Happy Mother's Day! Take a little extra time to enjoy the flowers, savor a few chocolates and allow yourself to be pampered and purrrrr. You deserve it!

With much Love,
~ Johanna, JP & Jack

Spring Folk Art Delights...

My spontaneous Spring Folk Art sale debuted this evening, only via my e-Newsletter, and I want to offer my THANKS to all of you that adopted a collectible original. I know some of you were anxiously awaiting for the sale to start with eyes peeled on the 'ol inbox! Thank you for your perseverance and your patience. I wish I had made more pieces to go around, but I appreciate the interest of so many art-loving friends hoping to acquire a special piece! For those of you that missed this sale, you can peek at my "Spring it On" Newsletter for links to more photos of each piece. Prior to the sale, I snuck a few artsy photos of these blooming delights. So, Enjoy!

Happy Spring,
~ Johanna



* A sweet tulip egg cup blooms from a vintage flower-shaped ice cream bowl! I love mixing my old pottery with my folk art....



* A trio of spring folk art characters nestle together on an old green serving tray. McCoy pottery finds, turned upside down, make the perfect pedestals...



* More pottery, in various shades of blue and green, complement the painted earth and sea hues of this sweet owl egg cup....

 


* Folk art tulips blush while posing for another photo. A primitive garden trellis adds design interest to the background...



* And, this sweet tulip bust was the perfect topper for a lovely antique Roseville vessel...



* A chocolate brown bunny looks delish on this vintage pink serving dish...



* And a pair of chocolate brown folk art cats take a spring sun bath together......
Purrrrfect :)


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Spring it On!...

Hi Friends,

It seems that my blog posts are fewer and farther between these days, Although I have had good intentions to post and share here, time has been slipping away. For some reason it seems that the hours are speeding up, and my to-do list often falls short! I hope I am not alone! Lately, I have favored the convenience of snapping a quick photo with my phone while I work and simply posting with a touch of the button to Instagram and or Facebook. So, for those of you that follow me there, these photos will be yesterday's news. I must admit that there's nothing quite like choosing a camera lens, adjusting the lighting and styling a photo. But sometimes I just do not have the time... especially when my fingers are covered in papier mache and paint!

Well, spring has just about sprung, both outside and inside my workshop! And my excuse about time speeding up also extends to my art. I feel like I have been working on this small collection for months, as I have been juggling other projects as well. But, with Easter just around the corner, it's time to wrap it up! While I had hoped to schedule a spring web sale, I have now decided to simplify things a bit by "springing" a spontaneous newsletter which will include links to these items. So, please keep an eye on your inbox during the next few days. I still have to add trims to each piece, and take their individual photos with a real camera. So, don't hold your breath just yet. But, thank you for your patience! And when my newsletter arrives, and if you see something you like, please EMAIL ME with the name of the piece you are interested in. I will be reserving each piece in the order of inquiries received. If you have not joined my Mailing List just yet, you can do so HERE...

For now, I am sharing a sneak peek at my spring original works in their various stages of progress.....

Cheers,
~ Johanna



* A peek from above of my spring originals in the works, all laying on their sides...



* An earlier photo reveals my rather random process of painting these whimsical characters... This is the first time I have added a flower character into the mix! I had fun making a few tulips.....



* Included in this small collection of eight pieces are busts, ball characters and egg cups...



* And, here's a look back at one of my colorful palettes where I continued to mix my colors of spring!

It's Rhyme Time ~ Make your Offer!

Hoot Hoot!

 I do believe it has been a couple of years since I created and offered one of my collectible Rhyme Time Originals! Unique to my line of one of a kinds, these full-figured characters each balance atop a decorated ball and include a special rhyme that I have written to accompany the piece. "Vowlina Buttonlove" is my first perching owl adorned in vintage buttons, and her corresponding poem details her love for collecting them. Painted in an eye catching motif of vintage turquoise green, ruddy orange, black and cream, she is a collector's delight throughout the year! "Vowlina Buttonlove" is a hand-sculpted and painted folk art curio, standing at 7.5" tall by 8" wide, and certainly unique to the world! I welcome you to study the various images of Vowlina below, read her Rhyme Time poem, and consider placing your Best Offer for this one of a kind, Collector's Series piece!

Thank You!

THANKS to ALL who participated!!!!

Last Updated: March 11, 2014, 1:00pm EST
Winning BEST OFFER: $888
Auction Ends at 1pm EST on March 11th

"With her passion for old treasures-to-beak,

and a will to both hunt and seek,

Vowlina collects buttons by night,

when she furtively takes to flight.

High in the sky she makes a dive,

to collect another row of five.

Then, she totes them back to her nest,

to sort and assemble the rest.

Now, she sits on her ball shaped throne,

where a medley of old buttons are sewn."

~ Johanna Parker

About this Blog Auction: 

If you would like a chance at adopting "Vowlina Buttonlove,"simply 
EMAIL ME with your Best Offer.
So, here's the scoop:

- The Starting Bid is $250
- Bidders will remain private
- My blog will update daily to reflect the highest Best Offer
- Numbers on the wheel will be rounded in increments of 50
- Keep an eye on the wheel by refreshing this page
- Submit best offers once or as many times as you wish during this auction

On Monday, March 10th at 9:30 pm EST, I will email all the participating bidders with a Last Call, announcing the current high offer. Afterwards, bidders will have until mid-day on Tuesday, March 11th to submit any additional offers. I hope to announce the Winning Offer amount here on my blog by 1pm EST on the 11th. So, you have a week's time to submit your best offer/s. Anyone has a chance to participate if he or she chooses, and bidders can keep track of the approximated offers here on my blog. 

How to Bid :

Please study the various photos below to see if you would like to adopt "Vowlina Buttonlove." If she hoots to you, then . . . . . . . 

* EMAIL ME with the amount of your Best Offer (johanna@johannaparkerdesign.com & johannaparker@mac.com)

* Title your email: "Best Offer - $ ____ "

* Look for a reply / confirmation email that your offer has been received

As you submit your offer/s, you are welcome to identify yourself or remain anonymous.  Send emails from whatever email address you choose as long as I can reach you in the event you are the winner!  I will be accepting offers until 1pm EST, March 11th. At that time, I will review the offers and post the pending best offer amount. The winner will be notified and will have 24 hours to respond, identify him or herself and start the process of finalizing the sale. The piece will be offered to the bidder of the next best offer, in the event the top bidder does not to respond.

As for emailing me with your offers, please know that I am grateful for your support and any bids of affection. Best of luck!...... Now, let's get started :)

Up for Offers is "Vowlina Buttonlove"... 

* At 7.5" tall by 8" wide, Vowlina Buttonlove spreads her wiry wings and perches on her button-covered ball!...

* She includes a very special collectible signed rhyme that poetically tells her story!

* She wears a sweet painted party hat, decorated in stylized blooms...

* Her round perch is decorated in 3 rows of vintage buttons, totaling a collection of 15 button finds...

* She's painted in a lovely vintage patina turquoise-green hue with undertones of ruddy orange..

* Hand formed wires create both her talon feet and her stylized wings as well as secure each decorative button in place..

* Her ball shaped perch is painted in an alternating scallop pattern, reminiscent of feathers..

* Black and white glass glitter add sugary shimmer and magic to her conical hat...

* She is quite the unique character!

* And she looks good from all angles :)

* She's signed, dated and marked 1/1...

If you would like to place your Best Offer for both "Vowlina Buttonlove" and her Rhyme, please EMAIL ME...

* Thank you for your folk art appreciation! :)

Hoot Hoot,

~ Johanna

HOOT HOOT Giveaway!!!

Helloooo Friends!

It's always a pleasure to host a Giveaway and express my gratitude for your support! As there is a growing population of Owl Lovers out there, why not share some of that Wise, Wide-Eyed Whimsy with you! Today through March 10th, I am taking comment entries for your chance to win this sweet set of hoot-hoots, including a one of a kind, signed owl magnet and a trio of my illustrated owl-themed notepads. To enter, you just have to make a simple Guess!!!..... And, there are multiple ways to enter to increase your odds!

UPDATE: We have a WINNER!

Congrats to Gina Burt (on Facebook) who guessed the exact number of originals that I made!

120 is the official count!

From little ornaments, to larger pieces and even a couple of sculpted artscapes, I made 120! I can't believe I made it into the 3-digits... Some were donations and giveaways, I kept a few that I could not part with and the rest reside with my cherished collectors! THANKS to all who played along in my guessing game. I can only dream of making many hundreds per year, but thanks to those that imagined that I could. Each original is hand-sculpted and unique, so the process is a timely one, and I tend to take longer each year. Many of you came quite close too! Well, that was fun, & thank you for participating here on my Blog, on Facebook and on Instagram. Cheers!

 To ENTER, simply....

Guess the Number of original sculptures I created last year, for a chance to win this Owl Lovers set!

- Enter your number in the Comments portion below this post by clicking on the comment link

- Follow my blog (right sidebar "Join this site" button) to leave another comment here with different numbered guess

- Enter on my Facebook Page to extend your chances there with yet a new guess

- Pin the image above on Pinterest for yet another chance/ new guess to comment here on my blog

- Follow me on Instagram @jparkerdesign & leave a comment under my Giveaway photo on IG to guess again

(If you have any troubles leaving a comment here, you can EMAIL ME, and I will add your comment to the blog)


On Monday evening, March 10th, I will collect all the names that guessed the correct number, and I will draw a winner from that lucky group! If no one guesses the correct number, I will do a drawing from those who guessed the closest...

Good Luck!
~ Johanna

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Follow your Heart...

Before March swiftly rolls in, I thought I would share a few photos that I took of my LoveBug collection! Fortunately, I had a little time to spare between selling and shipping these cuties. So, I was able to stage them around our home and snapped a few memorable vignettes. Wouldn't these photos make sweet cards? I guess I better add that to my growing to-do list! Enjoy! And many thanks to those who adopted these special characters...

xoxo,
~ Johanna




* "Bella Bugaloo" perches in our sunroom window. The curtain above her is actually a pom-pom-fringed hand towel from Sur la Table, purchased a couple years ago...



* I squeezed these five fellas onto a vintage style red cake stand that I just found at World Market. For added height, I turned a mini latte bowl from Anthropologie upside down and placed one of my love bugs on top!



* "Armon Amore" & "Priscilla Loveletter" make quite the pair...



* " Bart o'Heart" perches atop a peely old shelf, framed by a piece of ornamental iron that we found in the trash... Turns out, it was a treasure!



* "Hearty Rosa" brightens up a winter's day with hints of vintage green....



* Here's the whole gang sitting atop a primitive end table....  You can view a larger image of these sweet guys on my FACEBOOK page...



* And lastly, "Bart o'Heart" bids you a friendly farewell!

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Be My Valentine...

Wishing you a heart-warming Valentine's Day! May it be lovely and purrrrrfect :)

xo,
~ Johanna, JP & Jack




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Have a Heart! Printable Valentine's Project...

Happy month of LOVE! As a special gift of thanks, we want to share our Hearts with You! Below, you will enjoy a sweet DIY project, including a FREE Printable page of hearts that I have designed. Simply click on the link provided below, print the page and let your creativity flow! For a little inspiration, I am also sharing my step-by-step project with you. It's only one of gazillion paths to take, and we look forward to seeing what you do! Please share your finished Heart creations with us by sending us an EMAIL with images of your crafts. You are welcome to share this link and spread the love....

xoxo,
~ Johanna, JP & Jack



* The inspiration behind this project started with a long piece of 20 gauge wire and the lovely word "Love." I attempted a few by slowly bending the wire and forming the letters, and then I settled on a size and script style that I liked best...



* My wire "Love" letters needed a backer plate, so I created a simple heart design on the computer. I included 2 additional hearts at a reduced size and added them all to a standard letter-sized piece of paper.
This FREE Printable can be found at our link:  http://www.johannaparkerdesign.com/Share/Johanna's-Valentine-Heart.pdf



* I printed the PDF on cream colored card stock and starting cutting along the outer dashed line...



* To add more substance and layers to the heart, I found a scrap of vintage teal wool that I had previously stiffened with glue. Using my existing heart as a template, I drew a slightly larger heart on the wool, and cut out that shape...



* For an extra touch of texture and whimsy, I glued a strand of fringed red string along the outer edge of the backside of the paper heart.



* Once the glue dried, it was time to position my wire lettering on the front side. Using a pencil, I marked two dots to indicate the exit holes for the wire to pass through on each end of the word "Love." A quick prick with an awl, allowed the wire to pass through to the backside, where I trimmed and looped the wire to secure it in place (as seen above).



* After a little hot glue, the paper heart fused with it's woolen backer! Another piece of wire, woven  through the wool,  became an easy hanger. And, I was off to decorate with my new creation! I hung it on a kitchen cabinet door....



* I hung it on an antique shelf...



* I hung it on the wall..... and on and on and on....

Simple ideas such as this sweet heart, used in combination with scraps of fabric, wire, string, glue, glitter and other found objects in the home can really add a personal touch and create an endearing gift for a loved one. I hope you find inspiration, print our page of Hearts, put on your crafting hat and get creative... And, Please do share your creations via EMAIL or by posting your projects on our Facebook Page!

Hugs & Happy Valentine's Day!


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Going Love-Buggy!...

Hello friends and Happy 2014! I just realized that it has been a whole month since my last post! After the holidays, I took a little time off from blogging as well as sculpting. The break was a nice change of pace after a very busy show season, but I am happy to be back and immersed in my creative bliss! Currently, with Valentine's Day just around the corner, I am working on a handful of original LoveBugs. I snapped a few photos from the work shop, but remember, they are not quite finished yet... They still await more painted details, wire accents, buttons and trims. With just a few of these one of a kinds to offer, I have decided to release them within my next Newsletter which will go out in early February. As it is a spontaneous sale, there is no scheduled sale date. But, it looks like I will have about a week or so to finish this small collection of ladybug inspired characters, photograph and prepare their graphics. So, keep an eye on your inbox, and best wishes to you for a LOVELY new year!

xoxo,
~ Johanna



* LoveBug mini busts and ball characters gather around my paint palette and await more details...



* A peek at the back side of one of my LoveBugs reveals swirling patterns and spots!



* Black, white and even a green-faced bug are included in the mix...



* This LoveBug says "OH, I'm not ready yet!"...... I think he feels a little exposed :)

You can also sneak a peek of their backsides on my FACEBOOK Page....

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We Wish You a Merry Christmas!

From our home to yours, We WISH You a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year! As always, thank you for your dear friendship, love and support...

xoxo,

~ Johanna, JP & of course, Jack!



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Collector Spotlight ~ Martha in So Cal...

I am excited to share with you another delightful Collector Spotlight feature! This is my first Christmas-themed series where we all have the pleasure of stepping inside the home of a gracious collector during the holiday season. It is with joy that I introduce to you my dear friend Martha from So Cal! We connected almost 7 years ago via our passion for folk art. Her curiosity and admiration for my creations blossomed into an affection for collecting my original art. With Martha's passion for celebrating the various seasons of the year, she has inspired me along the way to explore and create new characters and works of art that symbolize the holidays and traditions that we both cherish. I am honored that she has chosen to open her home and share a delightful peek from within! It is always a treat to see my art pieces arranged and well-loved in a thoughtful home. I imagine these vignettes will inspire many more folks to create holiday nooks and table-scapes with their favorite things, to share amongst family and friends. So, let's begin with a little Artist & Collector Q&A along with a captivating collection of Martha's photos...

  

* Pictured above is a sweet photo of Martha and her hubby, stealing a kiss near the Christmas tree!

J: How did you learn about my 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: I do love how the web can really connect us all so instantaneously! I am grateful that you found me via a basic search, and we became fast friends through our common love for folk art! 



* I love this wall nook that Martha has donned with some of her Johanna Parker Design snowmen! A whimsical pedestal sconce is the perfect spot for one of my limited edition shelf sitters that she acquired in person at our open house. The sweet medley of snowmen below are all original creations, and look quite content to be sharing the shelf!



* A newly adopted piece to her Christmas collection this year is "Holiday Hareiette!" Pinecones, sprigs and poinsettias offer just the right setting for this one of a kind holiday rabbit...



* Taking a closer peek at her nook of Johanna Parker Design original snowmen reveals all smiles and delight! The egg cup and ornament ball characters look to be older pieces, and the larger guys are candy containers with removable heads that likely date back a few years too.



* What a festive vignette this is with the "Happy Holidays" sign and the jolly snowman character ball original in the foreground. He looks to be singing a Christmas song! Martha nestles him in a bed of greenery and red berries which makes him pop!

J: How long have you been collecting my 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!

J: My goodness! Where does the time go?.... It's hard to imagine that you first reached out to me almost 7 years ago! So, I was curious, and I did a little digging in my archived email. Here's what I found from you:

"Hi Johanna,

Love your creations and would like to be notified when you have more items to sell.  In your article in B H and G I loved the owl on the top shelf.  I'd love to have something similar.

Hope you can add me to your email list!

Martha" 

And here was my response....

"Hi Martha!

You've been added to the mailing list, and thank you for your interest in my folk art!  :)  I hope to have at least one more web sale before Halloween and also post some of the magazine pieces on eBay, so you'll get a heads-up!.... Glad you like the owl.....That reminds me that I need to make a few more owlish creatures!.....  

I'll be in touch,

~ Johanna"

* Fast forward several years, and now Martha has a small family of JPD holiday Hoot-Hoots! This trio of my festive original owls, were collected over a span of time, and look lovely together. It is to the credit of many collectors, including Martha that help direct me in creating the particular characters that I make. Owls in particular have been and continue to be a popular request, and thanks to Martha and others, I have made and sold a menagerie of them. The owl she referred to in her initial email was a standing, perched owl for Halloween, and now she has her very own Christmas rendition...



* Another sweet trio of JPD originals ~ this time a gathering of folk art cats each offer a sweet smile for the season!

J: What is it about my creations that capture 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: I love that my art can create such a warm feeling and generate smiles, year after year! It brings me joy to know that more and more joy abounds via the sharing of my art with others. And, thank you for appreciating the care and attention that goes into each piece :)



* Here's a wide, including the cat trio and some of their wintery friends ~ all JPD originals... Martha displays them using painted boxes of varying heights, which is a great way to add interest and create a more pleasing group. The poinsettias add a soft backdrop and tie the collection together.



* Here we have another trio of snowmen originals that Martha has collected from me over the years. There is something innocent about each one, and I enjoy revisiting my characters via these photos in Martha's home...



* Again, Martha adds more interest to her holiday displays by varying the heights of her art pieces. A stylized ladder serves as the perfect shelf to single out each piece!



* And she tops off that unique shelf with a collection of primitive birdhouse chapels that serve as an exhibit for a pair of snowmen ornaments. The dangling snowman above is an original ornament bell from my 2013 collection, and the juggler below is a current Johanna Parker reproduction piece, offered via Bethany Lowe Designs.

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

Martha: I have never had the pleasure of going to the Halloween and Vine or Ghoultide.  But I have gone to your place twice and bought plenty at your holiday open house!  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! Loved it when I got my new Mac!

J: You do have quick fingers when it comes to the web sales, and it does help to have a fast connection! I think those that have a growing affinity for my one of a kind pieces have learned to be snappy when I host a web sale. Pieces often sell quickly, and on my end, there is a frenzy as I sift through my inbox. Of course, face to face sales are always the best, and it's a fun way for me to meet the collectors and vice versa. It has been a pleasure to see you more than once at our Holiday Open House, and I appreciate the extra journey you make to come out to see us!



* Above, a medley of Johanna Parker Design originals bring holiday cheer to a sideboard. Some of these faces have made an appearance in other nooks around Martha's house, and it's fun to see how she playfully rearranges them according to her mood... In this photo, I spy a Christmas ghost and mouse bell ornament below that wintery flocked tree! All characters in this festive scene are one of kind Johanna Parker Design originals...

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

Martha: Hmmm.....gosh I love them all!  Of my Halloween, it might be my beautiful Cat Candy container, the one that's black and white with the crescent moon with mouse.  Is her name Dolly Crescent??  But from my Christmas I think it's hard cuz they are all out and I don't want to hurt feelings!  The ornament bells are FAB!  Love my 1st reindeer and Elf you did.....Love my Joy snowman ball, Tippy Tophat, Ronald Ruby and of course Snow Joe Oreo!!!  Love Swirly Santa....ok I really do love them all!

J: I know, I know... It've very difficult to pick a favorite, and I agree, we don't want to hurt any of their feelings! I have a sense that they all feel well-loved in your home... We will have to post a pic of "Dolly Crescent" when I share your Halloween collection here on my blog this coming Fall, 2014!



* Above are some of Martha's original Johanna Parker Design ornament bells! I have been making these for several years, and they are always a popular pick amongst collectors. I am truly lucky to make as many as 10 each year. I only got to 6 original bells for 2013. Included on her feather tree are a few sweet ornaments from fellow folk artist, Flora Thompson!



* And, yes, after Martha suggested I make a reindeer, I indeed did! I think she snagged one of my first reindeer egg cup characters at our Holiday Open House in 2011! Here he is, complete with mittens!



* And upon another suggestion to make elves, I followed suit and created 3 original elves this year. Martha adopted "Joyful Jelfrey"pictured above! She has him nestled in a bed of holly and surrounded by shimmery patinated mirrored relics...



* And here is "Snow Joe Oreo" ~ another one of a kind snowman candy container, this time in a black and cream motif! He happily greets both family and guests when they visit the powder room :)



* If you are wondering who is "Swirly Santa," well he is the whimsical sitter pictured above. He gets his name from all the black and silver swirl patterns that I painted on his body and hat! He proudly takes a seat at the kitchen table, atop a crate. Again, Martha works her magic by accessorizing her collectibles with other found objects, greenery and holiday pieces that work well to create a memorable scene for the senses!

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!

J: Ahh, thanks for the suggestions! I can certainly imagine that both a Christmas skunk and chipmunk and even a fox character would add more holiday fun and variety to the mix!



* Here is another view of Martha's original Christmas owls....



* I love the simplicity of this snowy vignette, featuring my reproduction snowmen. The sweet green feather tree softly accents the mosaic mirror, and all the primitive snowmen characters add that special touch of winter spirit! The bits of snow around the base really complete the scene, adding texture and softness!



* At last for the Christmas imagery, I am including a series of Martha's sideboard where you can see the various groups of her Johanna Parker Design originals. The holiday red hues really pop and express "Good Cheer" indeed!



* Beyond Christmas, Martha is also sharing a few photos of her all-season Johanna Parker Design originals! In the mix, sits a small black cat bust in soft green hues with vintage button. This little guy happily lives under a decorative green dome shared with floral delights and candle accents...



* Over the summer, Martha collected 2 unique flower keepers from my Flower Power collection of originals. Above, a poppy-painted bird accompanies a small nest, filled with spotted eggs...



* And my sweet ruddy-haired girl now wears a bouquet of dried posies... Both of these unique flower keepers serve as floral vases as well as decorations.



* And after winter's chill subsides, the sights of scents of spring will be upon us. Pictured above is an original Johanna Parker Design cat ball character for spring, settled amongst a lovely bouquet of blooms...


* And, spring wouldn't be quite complete without the hope of a blue bird. Here Martha invites that spirit of hope via this special standing bird characters, one of which I created a few years back. Sheltered under a lovely white bouquet, he brings delight to the table, year after year!

J: Many thanks once again to Martha for inviting us in to delight in her collections and share the wonderment of the season through her thoughtful arrangements!  Martha enjoys sharing her collections with both family and friends. At times, she even carts them off to community church functions, decorating tables and delighting attendees with her artful arrangements. As an artist, I am thrilled to see that my work is in good hands! And, I enjoy knowing that the joy in my art can reach so many! I look forward to sharing with you Martha's collection of happy-spirited Halloween folk art this coming Fall, 2014. Stay tuned! In the meantime, I invite you to celebrate the seasons by collecting your favorite folk art, igniting a spirit of whimsy and imagination...

I hope you enjoyed Martha's photos! You can share your thoughts here in the comments portion of this post. Just click the "comments" link below to leave a message for both of us! THANK YOU!

MERRY CHRISTMAS & Happy Collecting too!

Best Wishes,
~ Johanna

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Holiday Blog Sale!

Fa La La  to you my Friends!

Thank you for joining me for this special Holiday Blog Sale! Included are 5 different combination sets that promise to please! Study each photo, read the descriptions and EMAIL me if you are interested in adopting a small collection of my signed, licensed designs for the Christmas season. In your email, please include the name of the set you would like to reserve. Quantities are limited, so don't dilly-dally too long :) I will be reserving your sets in the order of emails received and will mark items sold once all have been requested. I take visa, mc, ae, discover and checks. Happy Holiday Shopping!

"Santa Lover Set" 

Included in this Santa-themed set is an illustrated candy box featuring ol' St. Nick, a double-sided Santa charm necklace with reversed colors from back to front, a Santa rattle ornament and a Dancing Santa ornament! All I can say is HO HO HO!  $42 plus shipping

~ SOLD OUT ~

EMAIL to purchase

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"Snowmen Jugglers Pair" 

Collect this matching pair of Juggling Snowmen! Standing at 10.25" tall, the standing snowman balances on a ball and strikes a yoga-like tree pose, while this smaller twin, at 6.75" tall, suspends as an ornament. $76 plus shipping

~ SOLD OUT ~

EMAIL to purchase

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"Ornament Collector Set" 

Collect this quartet of whimsical ornaments! Ranging from 4.25" tall to 6.75" tall, two Santas and two Snowmen will bring smiles to your holiday tree! And, the two rattles in the mix really do rattle and shake! $62 plus shipping

~ SOLD OUT ~

EMAIL to purchase

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"Dancing Santa Pair" 

Enjoy this whimsical coupling of Santas wearing their bell-shaped coats. The larger Santa, standing at 7" tall, delicately balances on a stack of wrapped packages. His mini friend at 4.25" tall, teeters from his hook and does a little jig! $75 plus shipping

~ SOLD OUT ~

EMAIL to purchase

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"Prim Snowmen Set" 

This sweet family of primitive snowmen are ever so dear. Ranging from an 8" tall stacked snow fellow to a 3" tall ornament, these rustic winter friends promise to bring cheer! $60 plus shipping

~ SOLD OUT ~

EMAIL to purchase

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