“Recognized as an Italian Citizen” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buon Giorno!

After a year and a half of paperwork, research, historical archives, meetings with the Italian Consulate, purchasing extended family members birth, marriage and death certificates, apostilles, notaries, exemplifications, and translations…yesterday, Jan 25th 2012 (our middle daughters 22nd birthday), I received my paperwork that I have been recognized as an Italian Citizen in the town of Bisceglie where my Great Great Great Grandfather Mauro Zingarelli and my Great Great Grandfather Donato Zingarelli and my Great Grandfather Antonio Zingarelli were all born. My birth certificate, my divorces and my marriages(I have had three) are also now registered there. However unimportant, my name is now written beside the story of our Italian ancestors.

For as long as I can remember, I was raised appreciating Italian culture and food. My dear Gram (who was Italian only by marriage to my most handsome grandfather Charles Zingarelli) had Italian flags, canisters of pasta, figs with almonds or walnuts, red and orange biscotti cans, amaretto, anisette, and everything breathing red green and white in her living room. They made homemade red wine and Italian sausage in their garage. We ate, we laughed, we talked loud, we hugged, we drank, we ate more…The pulse of Italian in my blood was the only culture I identified with even though I’m hesitant to divulge we have bits of French, Irish, Scottish and my father still believes we covet a tiny part Cherokee Indian (from his mothers side).

Although I have traveled the world, I have been traveling to Italy (mainly Roma) once or twice a year for the past 15-20 years. It is the only place on the planet I feel totally at home in my own skin. Someday, I dream to live there on a more “full time” basis. Yet today my heart aches to breathe in the history in Rome, meet my friends for dinner, eat the best gelato on the planet, touch the old doors, stand in front of a Caravaggio, paint with my art mentor, and walk the tiny town that was founded on my birthday looking to find myself an art studio…..or perhaps find myself a new apartment?

Today, I am thankful my nephew Zachary wants to be an Italian citizen as badly as I do. I owe it to him that our citizenship is more than just a pipe dream. Thank you my sweet nephew for cheering me on!

Today, I am proud. Proud to have my ITALIAN papers. Proud I carry such history inside myself. Proud to be a ZINGARELLI. Viva l’Italia!

 

 

 

 

“Shades of Blue” fine art and new poetry by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Shades of Blue” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

sculpture, acrylic, gold leaf on canvas

60×72

I feel so fortunate to have sold “Shades of Blue” the second large painting sold in Jan 2012. What a blessing. Thank you so much for appreciating the art and creativity that inspires me and paints me BLUE. ~~RMC

 

 

 

 

 

Shades of Blue 

Poetry by Rochelle Carr

It wasn’t the water in this painting I had seen at first glance,

Nor the width or breadth of the blueness in our lives.

It was the color blue

in waterfall form,

that made much more sense

when tilted in the opposite direction

while speaking ten different hues.

Blue month, blue fervor, blue love.

True blue

for you my darling,

oceans deep,

loving you,

in shades of blue.

“Anything is Possible” fine art by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE”

fine art by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

sculpture, acrylic on canvas

36×48

This is the second to the last painting before I am ready for the upcoming show. I am so relieved. I woke up at 3:30am creating new names for the last of my paintings. It’s kind of like naming children. My work feels so connected and a part of me that it’s hard to see them all leave my home. I have 29 paintings ready for the exhibition. 29 of my kids/canvas ready to do the breakaway gig again. My house will be empty of my entire collection except the seven abstracts waiting to go to Hinc Showroom at the San Francisco Design Center. Kinda funny when you think about it. It’s just like when my beloved REAL kiddos depart and say goodbye after our visits. It’s sad the “letting go” part I must endure, and then it’s a bit freeing knowing they will be okay and loved and peaceful in their new life and new homes because of the life experience I have painted inside them. Graceful exchange of beauty and life. I am thankful for my hands today.

I named this painting thinking of my up and coming Italian Citizenship. I have been dreaming of a trip to Italy(when the weather is a tad warmer) and I am not going until I have my new passport in hand. This painting reminds me of my friends in Rome that travel to the coast for weekends by the sea. Soon, I will be an official Italian Citizen and I am oh so excited! In this case I had to have an Italian Great Grandfather that did not “Naturalize” until after my grandfather was born. It was a years process and I am happy to say all the paperwork is complete and shipped to Italy. Tutto e’ possibile – Anything is POSSIBLE! I do believe we can dream up the impossible and make it happen…

ENJOY!

“Dance the Night Away With Me #5″ fine art by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Dance the Night Away With Me #5″   by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

sculpture, acrylic, resin on canvas

48X72

$6,500.00

This is my second painting in 2012. I am painting about 6 hours nonstop a day preparing for my solo exhibition Jan 23rd, 2012 at NH2 Salon and Gallery in Novato California. There will be 26 paintings on display until April 6th. Follow Your Heart Poetry books and greeting cards are for sale as well. Over 4000 sqft. of my artwork! Please drop by and ask for a tour! A variety of imagery to delight you. ENJOY!

Thank you Nina and Nicole!

208 Vintage Way # K29  Novato, CA 94945
(415) 897-8777

“GRAM” New Poetry by Rochelle Carr

Best Grandmother in the world!

GRAM

Your hands…..so soft.
I held your hand as a child.
We walked places.
I have veins like you so close to the skin.
How can our skin be so thin?
I looked forward to tickle backs during summer vacation at your house.
Ever so quietly in the mornings
You’d tiptoe into my room when I was older.
You always knew I loved to sleep in.
I can still hear your voice whisper, “It’s time to get up for breakfast.”
I still make tickle backs and whispers for my children.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
You reached for the doughnuts,
American cheese and Captain Crunch cereal stocked in your pantry.
We celebrated junk food Italian style.
Our parents were hippies and we ONLY had junk food at your house and
Ate ourselves silly every summer.
Just because you could spoil us.
Your pantry became a Disneyland of food.
I have a pantry.
Just like you.

Your hands…so soft.
You taught me how to shave my legs,
Wear make-up, use Jergens lotion and lather
Noxzema just like Grandma Dappie.
We painted my fingernails and I was “GIRLY.”
My mom hated Barbies because they had large breasts. I loved them.
I loved their designer clothes.
I loved being “GIRLY” with you.
I dress up and I wear sparkly things
And leather coats, and jewelry.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
I remember watching you that night at the Elks Club
As Gramps took your hand in his
And guided you to the dance floor.
You smiled.
Your body knew what to do with his.
I smiled watching you.
You were made to dance only with Gramps.
Later that night you watched proudly
And smiled at me as Gramps taught me to dance and swing like never before.
It was a magical night and your brother was there.
I found I could dance.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
You always reached into some secret place
And pulled out a five or twenty dollar bill,
Or much more,
For clothes or anything fun
Just because you loved me.
Many a year you sent me a check
Because I had left home at seventeen and
Couldn’t pay my rent or some bill.
You were my hero.
Your generosity… Never made me feel silly or stupid for needing your help.
I have a secret place with twenty-dollar bills
Or a stack of ones
For my children, nieces, nephews
And others that need a helping hand.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
You taught me about painting plaster sculpture,
Your passion for sewing,
And you helped me create beautiful things
Because you believed in me ALWAYS.
I am an artist now.
I paint on canvas with white sculpture
And I use your old sewing machine.
I create beautiful things that people buy now.
Sometimes I imagine you leaning over my shoulder guiding me.
I stay in the lines. Sometimes.
I’m the one that learned to sew.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
Your hands don’t help your body like they used to.
When I visit you from California it’s hardest for me
To look in your eyes.
I hold your hands.
I ache to see you in such pain.
I stare at your hands holding mine.
You can’t say “S” words and it pisses you off.
It’s not fair.
You tell me you are done with your life,
Tired of falling, and not trusting your same body.
Three weeks ago we cried together
As I held your face in my hands before I left.
There is unlived pain inside yourself.
I wish I could own it for you
Making your heart lighter and free.
Tears fall in clumps on my chest.
I write from years of memories that
Sit here grieving inside my head.
I understand I cannot make you feel better.
Instead, I will be feisty, determined, and strong.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
I remember them on my cheeks,
Brushing my hair from my face
As I lie there in your lap.
Gram, Gram, Gram…
How do I tell you everything just sitting here in my heart?
Do I tell you about the gratitude
And thankfulness I feel just knowing you?
What I believe it means to be a grandparent?
You are the best grandmother in the universe.
I will think I was your favorite just because I can.
I am now a mother of five.
I am a grown-up – whatever that means.
First line on my bucket list:
To be the best grandmother.
Just like you.

Your hands…..so soft.
My hands…..so soft.
Just like you.

Copyright 2009 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Almost Pear” New Poetry by Rochelle Carr

ALMOST PEAR

Anjou love
so crisp and sweet
guide my heart
to lips in Crete.

It’s not your shape
I love so dear
yet all your heart
and all you share.

Oh almost pear
how do you see
beyond the trunk of your brown tree?

Please don’t fall
it’s sad you see
I know you’ll bruise
fait accompli.

One more day
and you’ll be sweet
I’ll catch you now
a special treat.

Share with me
your secret true
it’s good your yellow
not so blue.

Copyright 2009 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Summer’s Eve” Painting by Rochelle Carr

“Summer’s Eve” Painting by Rochelle Carr
 
The twenty-second of September rang in the first day of fall – one of my favorite seasons!  Cool crisp days, sweaters, beautiful changing leaves and scenery, children excited to be back in school, parents excited for quieter days, and a chance to breathe from summer adventure and travel. 
 
My abstract fine art works, Summer’s Eve, speaks a wistful goodbye to summer.  The iridescent paint changes color as you walk side to side in front of this piece – the season is changing, the leaves are changing, and the feeling of the year is changing. My life would be abnormal without constant change. You will find this ever so present in my fine art. 
 
I love it as the year morphs and the seasons come and go.  I so enjoy summer and sunshine, the lightness of being, the dreaming, the travel, the water, the late night dinners, the friends, the family, BBQs, excitement, and constant commitments. Ours is a highly functioning abundant life. I am so thankful and blessed, and I will often just pinch myself to make sure it’s all real. 

I appreciate winter (but not my favorite season) the holidays, the family, the bonding and the magic. I do still believe in Santa.  I adore spring (MY ALL TIME FAVORITE SEASON) the rebirth, babies everywhere, the renewed energy, the garden, and my hands in the soil. Yet for some reason, I find I am always ready for the calm and peaceful feeling that comes with fall.  Fall graces the world in a warm blanket of my favorite colors: greens, browns, yellows, reds, oranges. Can you feel it’s warmth?
 
Inside Summer’s Eve, I have painted memories of many a summer sunset enjoyed with old lovers, friends and my husband (not all on the same evening mind you).  I am walking down the beach holding an arm or a hand, crunching shells in the sand, and gazing at the reflections and sparkles as the sun dances on the waves. I imagine myself, in years to come, walking along those same beaches when I’m 105!  I have decided this painting will remain in my private collection. Hopefully, my visitors will enjoy it as much as I do.

Does my painting inspire you to feel something?
Happy Summer’s Eve to all!

“What Would Love Do?” Painting by Rochelle Carr

A novel, first published in 1896, and titled In His Steps was subtitled “What Would Jesus Do?”.  The publishing of this book and an increasing popularity of the concept caused a grassroots phenomena to spread through the United States in the 1990s.  Merchandise was made and sold bearing the famous slogan which was originally aimed at making the youth of a church group be more aware of how their decisions were affecting people. 
 
The ability to choose how we react is a power that we all posses, and while the slogan grew in popularity through the 1990s, the concept has been existent forever.  We are not able to choose how we are treated or even the trials that come to us – but we can choose our outlook, our attitude and our reactions.  For me, the underlying principle which governs my choices is love.  The theme travels through my art and the question I find myself pondering on a daily basis is “what would love do?” In the beginning of the painting (before the layers and layers of color) in bold black thick words were first on the raw canvas: “What Would Love Do?” The painting sold as soon as it hit the gallery wall. It is also the painting on the cover of my new book: Follow Your Heart Poetry. I find such joy in the fact that folks in our world still believe in LOVE and HEARTS. It’s quite a universal concept.
 
Earlier in my life I would ask myself this question as I faced challenging moments as a single parent, with a stubborn family member, or dealing with an ex husband.  I would work through this question by myself looking for peace and solace.  Often, the answer which crept into my heart, was FORGIVE.  This word and feeling represents itself as the sister word to LOVE, and I am so blessed to have had several examples of pure and forgiving life experiences that taught me not only to FORGIVE, but also to let go and move on. At the risk of sounding too woo woo….I will move on.
 
Does learning to love and forgive teach me all that I need to hear when reacting to others?  Yes, most of the time it really does. Yet there are moments that nothing works, and my behavior or rudeness warrants huge apologies to friends and family members. Expressing love, manifesting love, and loving is not the same for everyone – but as I ponder this question and learn to provide that same love and acceptance for myself and my partner as I age, I find that eventually, the truth is always present when I open my heart and listen.  The love language I speak now is evident in my affection, support, kindness, belief in the impossible, soft words, hearts, gift giving, gifts of time, acceptance, and artistic expression. My art and my hearts are a gift to the world so to speak. 
 
This painting titled “What Would Love Do”, expresses my feeling that love is the biggest factor in helping to make good choices.  It is a greater force in the world of chaos and unnecessary war than any other single thing.  Our hearts overlap and fill empty spaces as we open them more and more to love. What a miracle it is that we as humans have been provided the opportunity to feel and experience true authentic “love.”

“When you feel you can’t go on, when a loved one can’t be strong, provide a gentle hand from you, and simply ask: WHAT WOULD LOVE DO?”

Copyright 2009 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.
 

“Kayak Man” New Poetry by Rochelle Carr

KAYAK MAN

She watched him kayak
In her mind.
His boat glides up on shore
He is somewhere
In his own heaven
Exploring deep blue seas.

Always near an island
With sunshine gracing his face.
Salt and pepper
Graying beard
And white ear hairs
Curl and dance
In appropriate face places.

She watched him kayak
In her mind.
Walking softly
Amongst cracked shells someone
Might have stomped with feet
Years earlier.
Island mermaids still slept
sweetly on rose petal beds
With pillows of golden crackled saltwater hair.
He climbed from his craft
Of quiet yellow
And watched them sleeping there
Till it was sunset.

He dreams of retired fruit treasure
As he searches for dry sand
And solace.
Guide him as he steps outside himself
And listens
To the gentle lapping of the shore
And paints his toenails blue
While magical sunset beams
Kindly impale him.
A world of ocean glistens from behind.
He will ponder starlight.

She watched him kayak
In her mind.
He wanders alone on one simple vacation
Originally booked for two.
He always deserved this trip
Yet would never give something to
Himself this way…
It was a gift
Imagining him kayak in her mind
While she was gone on her own
Walkabout
In foreign lands
With foreign tongue.

She watched him kayak
Around a virtual playground of story
Replaying the synchronicity
Of love
And the sexy swagger
Of his saxophone-
He likes to walk island beaches at sunset.

She watched him kayak
In her mind
Enjoying simple things
Unbearable lightness
Of being
Without worry
Or responsibility.
He shouldn’t have to work this hard.
The glisten of sunsets past
Stick to the flat side
Of the paddle
And stroke.
Hear his water
Hear his quiet solid yellow
Ocean stroked heart.

Swish
Swish
Glide…

Copyright 2009 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“OLD DOOR” New Poetry by Rochelle Carr

I am here traveling in Rome, Italy experiencing a mecca of old doors. It is my second year without my children living at home. I have a blended family and still manage the time to mother five incredible children. I am free of shoulds. I am free of schedules I do not create on the whim of what pleases me. The time in my hotel room is my own to reflect, remember, savor and use. I am writing incessantly (because I adore it) only stopping to mangia and enjoy a glass of wine. I am staying at a darling hotel near the ancient Colosseum called: Inn At The Roman Forum. The service is nothing short of magnificent and the people are absolutely lovely. I will always return.

I was up writing new poetry “Kayak Man” at 3:30 in the morning as jet lag looked me over with an off balanced sly smirk. I am still here 19 hours later at my computer with stiff knees and a full heart. I have just cried happy tears for finishing a poem (below) that sits perfectly beneath my feet. Kind of like the new Jimmy Choo twinsie boots I bought with my sister last month……I feel that damn good. Smile. My mother would tell me to get out and see the sights. My sister arrives tomorrow with her children and I will adventure non stop.

I have always imagined that old doors could speak. I imagine it sharing years of story and memories just sitting there somewhere under the surface of worn soft wood into that bold rectangle thing we call a door. If doors could speak what would they tell us of their history? Would they pick out a family they loved for lifetimes? Would they remember children that grasped handles with tiny fingers for years until they grew up? Would they remember a sadness that rocked their insides laden with horror, loss, or grief? Would they celebrate a first kiss? A marriage? Mourn a divorce? Shelter us from the rain? Would they remember our hands and how each person feels differently? Would there be fear? Would there be music? Or would there be clippity clop echo sounds of feet on cobblestone walkways?

I believe Old Doors DO remember. Just like I still believe in Santa, Magic Fairies, Moonbows, Convertibles, Mermaids, Hearts, Kings, Queens, and the guy (or gal) on the white horse! “When I am like an old door some day, some will rest hands on me and say: your wishes grand, your heart so true, your story long inside of you, be on your way my dear sweet friend, open doors, begin again!”

The power of love is found in the circle of family…..my family has always had old doors in it. Makes my older children giggle to see me feeling out some old door!
Enjoy!

OLD DOOR

Old door
Speak to me.
What do you say?
What have you seen?

Your face is worn
Yet I can see
Your story long
Inside of thee.

I touched your heart.
I feel your joy.
When did you love
That baby boy?

Bundled in blue
1922
He touched my frame
So loud and true.

His tiny hands
So soft you see,
Ingrained themselves
Inside of me.

Happy sounds
He had that day,
He made a mark
It’s here to stay.

That baby boy
Grew up so fast
His tiny hands
Are large at last.

I miss his touch
His darling face
He found my door
A sacred place.

My face now worn
So I can see
My story long
Inside of me.

Years of passion
Years of Grace
So many hands
Upon my face.

I wonder if
My days spent here
Are honored
And remembered dear.

My memories strong
And lifetimes deep
Some so sad
I close and weep.

Remember me
So loud and true
My story long
Inside of you.

You touched my heart.
You felt my joy.
You knew I loved
That baby boy.

It’s safe you see
Behind my door,
I’ll keep you warm
Forever more.

Be on your way
My new-found friend
Just open doors,
Begin again.

Copyright 2009 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“River Wide” new poetry by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

River Wide

Carry me wet
On natural bend.
So I can feel myself real again.
This way and that way
I play.
Under water sometime now.
Find a breath
Sitting there
At morning light.
Quiet frames my swollen bravery and single tear.
Quiet was repaired long ago
With iodine, eighteen Band Aids and a kiss from my mother.
“Guaranteed she said,
There will be trouble ahead
In quite a few places.”
Unchartered territories
Splatter drops of old fear everywhere.
Class four life.
Rapids, rapids, rapids.
Hold tight to the craft.
Life jackets make for a great save
If only hearts desire.
Carry on river wide.
Carry me wet.

Copyright 2010 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Running Women” New Poetry by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Running Women” new poetry by Rochelle Carr

Running Women

There are women planning
The next race or challenge for themselves.
They continue to train body and mind for the next big thing.
It could be
The right foot hits the ground out the door
On that cloudy
Not so perfect day.
Headphones are intact
Nike’s strong
And music loud.
Feet dance faster with beats
And words of inspiration.
“You can do this baby,
There is nothing to do but run!”

There are women planning
To run their hearts out
For a cause or a cure.
Making a difference
As they pound pavement
United or alone.
They wear costume and plaster
Themselves with names
Of lovers,
Pals,
Relatives or memory.
Teams from heaven run with them
They cry happiness
Knowing they feel each other
to the bone.
A miracle of leg and feet
And wing.

There are women planning to change
Themselves or the world.
One day at a time.
One foot at a time.
It is what they do.
Thank them.
They might have touched
Your hand one day
Gently passing women power
Off to you.

Copyright 2010 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Wellness” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

Hello All,

Bought this really cool magazine at Whole Foods last week: Organic Spa magazine. It was laying under the bed this morning as I woke up for the second time. For first time notes you have to read my earlier blog post. Makes me giggle just remembering it.

This article had a wonderful little list of reminders on wellness – something I always have to remember in my full “high functioning” SUPERWOMAN SUPERMOM VENTURE SPOUSE life. ENJOY!

“Wellness is a reflection of the unique dance of life in which the energy of your body, mind, and spirit become perfectly attuned with each other. It is at this point of balance, that the power of your own natural healing force begins flowing freely to nurture and nourish your whole being.”

1. Tune out the cable news.
2. Tame harmful habits.
3. Eat Healthfully.
4. Get regular exercise.
5. Love unconditionally.
6. Have Fun.
7. Be a good person.
8. Be happy not right.
9 Meditate.
10. Have faith.

Thank you Organic Spa Magazine and Dr. Edward Taub. For full article go to: http://www.organicspamagazine.com

What Would Love Do? by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

This painting remembers a stormy night, stormy relationship, stormy behaviors from my son, and then a peaceful, restful transition and return to the semblance of normalcy I so knew and appreciated in our lives back then. When I am unsure or uncertain or extremely emotional about life – I must clean something in the house, or simply let the emotion escape from my body in some manner or another. I try not to yell that much anymore. My quick actions for heart repair marries well with my “live out loud” philosophy. Smile.

I began with big black words on the canvas reading: “WHAT WOULD LOVE DO?” The colors that preceded just danced around the black words and the painting eventually partnered with hearts that felt big and bold and strong. What exactly WOULD love do at this point?? Where would I be without those feelings? Could I actually turn this big bold painting around to feel like loving kindness for my son, or better yet – loving kindness for myself? Where could I soften, and what colors would I add that might feel like LOVE?

Valentines day is getting closer and I have always treasured our universal heart symbol. Aside from Christmas, Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday. This painting sold as soon as it hit the gallery wall. The finished piece was created without black words present as they were buried underneath layers and layers of color – the colors of love. ENJOY!

“Confetti” fine art sprinkles by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

These tiny bright drops of memory reminded me of the confetti cake decorations I used to shake on many a cupcake for my children, nieces and nephews. Sweet sweet odes of joy.

Today, allow me to serve you a heart painting with rainbow sprinkles. It’s just gonna be that sort of day. In a just a sec, I will be climbing into color. My studio is calling me. ENJOY!

Copyright 2010 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Art Speaks” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Art has a voice – let it speak.”~~RMC

It’s my belief that the space and feel of where art finds a home (whether in business, houses or exhibitions) is extremely important. The energy of the people and the new art’s surrounding environment will enable the art to “feel” alive and “enhance” it’s new home.

If there is passion and appreciation of a certain works – it will sell more quickly, or find itself highly respected in it’s new environment – regardless of whether or not that place is a museum or a business or a residence. There is truth to the art of Feng Shui (http://www.thespiritualfengshui.com/feng-shui-in-home.php) with the balance of placement, color, and the elements.

Each piece of art on this planet is sacred and special (when an artist creates the art) or when someone chooses to buy it or place it in their world. It is an incredible gift and exchange of life energy.

As a fine artist, I am humbled and honored to feel my work appreciated by another human being. I am intentional about solo exhibitions (where my art is placed) and often times assist with installation of my purchased artwork in the new environments. I donate many works of art because I can and because I feel it’s important to give. People choose my artwork because of the vibrancy of colors, and the way they “feel” about a certain painting. Shouldn’t art in business environments also consider the feeling and colors and people and things that inhabit the space? The money part can always be figured out. Isn’t art all about what speaks to you? “Art has a voice – let it speak.”~~RMC
ENJOY!

Abstract expressionist and author of Follow Your Heart Poetry: http://www.rochellecarr.com

Copyright 2010 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Coach Poppy Sequin Handbag” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

Coach Poppy Sequin Handbag…….Is this a hot sassy purse or what!!??? My daughters certainly thought I was foolish sporting this flashy new bag – inside I think they were green with envy. This Coach Sequin Poppy extravaganza makes me smile just looking at it. I think she just smiled back at me.

Just bought this new treat for myself last week at Nordstrom in Portland. A pre-birthday gift (post helping daughter for eight days) gift to self. I had just finished purchasing two tiny over the shoulder basic yellow and black handbags and was about ready to walk out when this shiny sparkly beauty screamed from the bottom shelf “BUY ME!” I immediately returned the two bags (already purchased) while profusely apologizing to the nice sales lady that I REALLY had to have this Coach Poppy handbag instead of the two basic practical bags she had just rung up seconds before. She said it had just been returned! MY LUCKY DAY. Silver sequin and crystal dangles everywhere. Pure heaven. My family will tell you that I sport anything with rhinestones, diamonds, sequins, gems and serious shineology. My incessant sparkly behavior makes them all giggle and I love that. I basically provide them all something to shake their heads and say….. (ONLY YOU ROCHELLE).

Some women buy shoes (I do that too) and some buy purses. I buy both. New purses I buy about every two to five years and call it an investment. The ROI on the designer bag is basically non existent. The shoes are another story……ENJOY!!

New Food Traceability Video from HarvestMark marketing team by Rochelle Carr

Why Traceability? by HarvestMark from Caspian Michalowski on Vimeo.

Happy Birthday Art – 47 years of family, friends and art!!!

When I turned 35 I asked for everyone to come to my birthday party and create art with me on my wall. It was one of my favorite birthdays ever! It really is a cool thing for an artist to have all her people in one room painting together! There are so many people wrapped in color here on this humongous birthday canvas. For 12 years I have painted in my studio/gallery with my family and friends incredible birthday art under my bare feet and slippers. I am framing it this year as I don’t want the art to wear away……All the little darlings, family and friends dipped their feet and hands and brushes in my paint and donned a mural with messages of love and words and pictures for ME all over it. The blue feet are my brother in law Cliffy’s….the Italian flag was my Grandfather….TiAmo was Gram….on and on….my oh my what a wonderful gift! We will be doing this again when I am 50!

Today, I celebrate 47 years of life, paint, color, travel, wrinkles, food, family, friends, love, happiness, sadness, rage, joy, beauty, death, birth and thankfulness. This year (my 47th year) I will be a grandmother for the first time and I have waited all my life for this incredible honor – I cheers to that! I thank all of you for your support, kindness, love and strength wrapped up in my 47 years!

Life is such a BIRTHDAY – Celebrate it!

Follow Your Heart Promote Your Art: You Are An Artist If You Believe You Are! by Rochelle Carr

Follow Your Heart – Promote Your Art!
You Are An Artist If You Believe You Are!

How many times do people out there ask themselves: “What am I? Am I an artist? Am I creative? Am I just into crafting? Am I a painter? Doodler? Illustrator? Designer? Am I just fooling around? Can I possibly be an artist if I can only find the time to create art between kids, work and family life twice a week? Am I am artist if I did not go to art school? Am I an artist if I am self taught? Am I an artist if I do not sell my art? Am I an artist if I am not with gallery representation?”

Well my friends, the answer is yes! You are an artist if you believe you are! Just two little words: I believe! Whoop! Whoop! Say it: “I am an artist!” That’s all there is to it. No grand pubah out there is telling you that you are not good enough to be an artist. No one has that right anywhere on this planet. We are all the same. We are all connected. Grant yourself the permission to be an artist. You are an artist if you believe you are!

SO…YOU are an artist now. What are you going to create with all of that lovely newfound knowledge believing in your new artist self? What is deep in there just waiting to climb out into your perfect chosen medium? How will you express it? What does it say? What does it mean? How does it feel this new you? What color is it? Will you sit? Will you stand? DO you need tools to make it beautiful?

Art is inside you. You can make a mark on a paper bag and crinkle it up and I will call it incredible fabulous art if you do! Start small, start grand just start! Follow your heart and you shall see, just how happy art can be! Congratulations! Celebrate the artfulness in you.

“Art has a voice – let it speak.” ~~RMC

Copyright 2010 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

Follow Your Heart Promote Your Art! Brand Creation: What kind of artist are you?

Follow Your Heart Promote Your Art!
Brand Creation: What kind of artist are you?

Most artists have a genre or type of art that they enjoy and they focus intently on that given direction and medium. They may dabble, play, study and enjoy adventuring in one medium, or decide they would rather try many new forms of art before deciding on one certain focus. Any methods for exploring your own art (is perfect) and it doesn’t matter which path you take unless you think it does. You are on your own unique artistic path! Relax, let go, face the fear and give yourself permission. There is no failure here.

Some artists shift and grow into a new level of confidence with their artistic selves and will eventually feel ready to market and sell their artwork. In my opinion, part of this process is to create a personal “title or branding story” and share it with the world.

Obviously, if you enjoy yourself as an artist at home without creating a business venture out of it – the need for brand creation and title is not as important, yet might possibly create a more focused learning environment if you know and “named” what your intentions are. Are you drawing, painting, singing writing? Are you a crafter or enjoying the visual arts? What is it that speaks to you strongly? Are you a painter, photographer, ceramicist or printmaker? Make it up. Research what you do.

Have fun with the naming process! Feel it out for a few days and see if your new title sounds like a true fit. Think of it as trying on new clothes: “When it looks good it feels good and when it feels good it looks good!” What is your title and how would you describe yourself to the world?? Does it resonate? Please remember, if it’s not fun – don’t do it.

After trying on many forms of art (the past 20 years) I have decided and delightfully discovered that I enjoy dabbling, learning and pushing the boundaries into landscape and portrait painting. I am an Abstract Expressionist at heart with the spirits of Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol sprinkled inside my vibrant colors and universal symbolism. It’s nice to sit at a dinner table with new friends (when my partner says he is the CEO of a food traceability company) for me to say I am an abstract expressionist! My name and discovered artist title is just the beginning of my own personal branding story.

For those interested, I found an art website sharing different types/genres of art and might help with creating your own personal brand and title: http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/art-types.htm.

http://www.rochellecarr.com

rochellecarr@me.com
“Art has a voice – let it speak.” ~~RMC

Copyright 2010 by Rochelle Carr. All rights reserved.

“Tribute to Robert Motherwell” by Rochelle Carr

   Just for a moment I wish I could travel back in time to visit the Greenwich studio of artist Robert Motherwell. I am filled with great admiration and respect for Motherwell’s fine art and the role he played, along with many dedicated hard working artists changing the importance of Art in America and placing “Abstract Expressionism” firmly on the map. These incredible artists, without knowing it, paved the way for artists of today.

I wish my studio was extremely tall and wide so I could stretch out a magnificent grand white canvas (much larger than my current works) and create something new Robert Motherwell might be proud of. The following paintings I created this year are my way of paying tribute to such an important talented artist, philosopher and poet. I make use of some of his favorite colors: ultramarine blue, white, black and yellow ochre. Robert Motherwell…….these paintings are for you.

Please watch the dvd “Robert Motherwell & The New York School: Storming the Citadel” a film by Catherine Tatge

http://www.amazon.com/Robert-Motherwell-New-York-School/dp/B003VTKZ8O

“Wedding Extravaganza” fine art by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Wedding Extravaganza”new fine art wedding gift

 by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

sculpture, acrylic, gold leaf, resin on canvas

48X60

$5, 900.00

 

This is the third painting of the new year and the sister painting of Dance the Night Away With Me     #5.  This painting will also be included in the solo exhibition at NH2 Salon and Gallery in Novato, CA Jan 23rd – April 6th. These wedding paintings have been bought as gifts for bride and groom and are perfect for wedding receptions and dance floor decoration. Custom colors, flowers, cake styles, people and attire are available on request. Two to three month lead time for all orders.

 

http://www.rochellecarr.com

 

“Numerology” works in progress by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Numerology” works in progress by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

Ok…….more than a few have asked to see the work in progress….so here it is….there will probably be about ten more layers added to this and I will take photos along the way in the next four months. Not sure whats next. Notice the mustard color of that Mercedes 450SL. Color me RED.

“Tools of the Trade” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

“Tools of the Trade” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

The other day I realized I became comfortable with the fact that I paint very BIG. Maybe I came to that conclusion on Jan 1st, 2012. Ok, let’s just say it was, because my favorite years have proven to be the “even numbered” years. Nice to have my very own revelation in the NEW year. Have a schtick about that even numbered thing. Trippy part is that every time I have a favorite even numbered year – I turn an ODD NUMBERED age. Damn.

Just finished the year (in the process of) completing a huge oil painting called, “Numerology.” This painting will be living in my private collection. It has two even numbers in it: the number forty-eight and the number eighty-four. These are the ages of my grandmother and myself when she passed away last year. My grandparents now live with me in my paintings. The number eighty-four is in big bright red numbers – Gram’s favorite color. My number forty-eight is covered up a tad bit only because I am not excited about turning 50 in a couple years.

I enjoy tools that enable and spread my paint in thick layers with intention and determination. Often, instead of paintbrushes, I use various sized palette knives. For the “Numerology” painting I used my palette knives AND my grandfathers trowel that he used for years in his profession as a mason contractor and bricklayer. He told me I could have that trowel last year. It was the first time I pulled it out and actually painted with it. I felt important. Big kid, big tools.

I feel closer to our memories together when I use that trowel. I can smell the summers I spent with them in Shell Beach driving with the top down in the mustard colored 450SL listening to Tony Orlando and Dawn. Simple afternoons watching my grandfather grab his trowel with his handsome tanned Italian skin slapping and sliding the mud in between beautifully colored bricks and stones…he laughed and cursed and worked fast otherwise, the mortar would set and he would have to curse some more. As you can see in the picture above, the trowel still has his mortar on it. He wanted to be an artist in high school he told me. Funny, my tools look just like his do – just a bit smaller in size. These are our TOOLS of the Trade….

“Dance the Night Away With Me 4″ fine art by Rochelle Carr

“Dance the Night Away With Me 4″ by Rochelle Carr

Just finished this large painting for my new show going up Jan 14th-April 4th in Novato, California. This is perhaps the last finished works of 2011. Have two more days to go…. What will 2012 bring?

60X72

sculpture, acrylic, gold leaf on canvas.

 

“Family” by Raphaella Vaisseau

Wandering through old files on my computer and found this quote about family. You might enjoy it. It’s almost a new year!

Family by Raphaella Vaisseau

” We are living, learning and growing together, we do our best to keep our word and teach by example, we strive to act with integrity, honesty and consideration toward others, ourselves and each other. We are taking care of each other as we also take care of ourselves, we respect who we are, and strive to make the most of the gifts we are given. We honor each other’s talents, though they may be different from our own. We strive to be a consistent source of encouragement and acknowledgment for one another. We love each other not for what we do, but for who we are at the very core of our beings. We accept that, being human, mistakes happen, and when they do, we strive to find the blessing within the opportunity, for we know that understanding is a valuable result of learning the lessons of life. As we endeavor to not take each other for granted, we are eternally vigilant. We take the time to listen to each other, so we are not surprised by growth and change. We give thanks for each day we have together and for the many blessings in our lives. We stand by each other, and love each other no matter what.
We are family.”

“Peace” by Rochelle Carr Studio and Gallery

I bought this beautiful sparkly peace sign for my mantle this week and then found this quote by Robert Fulghum. The funny part is that I create encaustic art melting crayolas (yes the big boxes) and this quote made me giggle thinking of all that parachute crayon happy. What would the world be like if it was basking in color and imagination? A little PEACE perhaps?

“Maybe we should develop a Crayola bomb as our next secret weapon.  A happiness weapon.  A beauty bomb.  And every time a crisis developed, we would launch one.  It would explode high in the air – explode softly – and send thousands, millions, of little parachutes into the air.  Floating down to earth – boxes of Crayolas.  And we wouldn’t go cheap, either – not little boxes of eight.  Boxes of sixty-four, with the sharpener built right in.  With silver and gold and copper, magenta and peach and lime, amber and umber and all the rest.  And people would smile and get a little funny look on their faces and cover the world with imagination.”  ~Robert Fulghum