Last month, Gemma Black, Australian calligraphic designer, artist, teacher, and my friend had offered Pieces of Peace. These were small works about 6 inches square with Gemma's gorgeous lettering and gold work. Gemma had offered these small works and would donate a portion of the sales to the Rural Fire Service via the Australian Red Cross in light of the devastating fires in Australia. I believe one of Gemma's brothers is a volunteer firefighter.I thought it was a wonderful way to help a worthy cause. By the time I got to take a look at the artwork most were already bespoke. I chose this piece titled #19 and happily, it became mine and arrived this past weekend.
The substrate was made to look charred like the scorched earth of Gemma's country. The goldwork reminds me of Aboriginal art. I think this looks like a sun symbol. No matter the changes to the landscape, Australia will always endure. Like the sun.
Gemma also announced on her blog her 2020 teaching schedule. At the end of this year, Gemma will retire from teaching. I'm saving my pennies because in September, Gemma will be coming up over to teach a workshop for Masscribes at the end of August.
You can see more of Gemma's work at her website: Gemma Black artist
That's a beautiful piece, glad you were able to get it. I've got happy mail on my blog just now, too! Valerie
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DeleteWow, I just spent a long time visiting Gemma Black's blog. She does amazing work. I can see why you want to take a workshop with her. I love the piece you chose. I like it better than some of the other pieces I saw.
ReplyDeleteGood for you for helping the Australian firefighters and getting something awesome in return.
Gemma's an amazing artist and teacher. I took an online class with her when I was a rank beginner.
DeleteThat is a cool piece for a really good cause. And lucky you that she is coming over to teach. That should be fun. Happy Monday. Hugs-Erika
ReplyDeleteGemma will be a popular draw for the workshop so participants will be put in a lottery for a seat. 🤞
DeleteAlways great when you can help in such a beautifully way! And, weee, a workshop! Wishing you loads of fun when the time comes!
ReplyDeleteVery poignant piece. :D
ReplyDeleteIndeed
DeleteBeautiful
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DeleteHow wonderful and what a wonderful cause.
ReplyDeleteAnd knowing the donation will get to where it needs to go
DeleteWhat a cool design, and the explanation for the colors used is touching. The news shocks me, and I can only hope recovery can begin soon. I can't imagine what it'd be like to live there in these days. (They won't let me move there. I checked ;) )
ReplyDeleteHow exciting that you'll be able to go to her workshop when she comes!
I hope to be able to take her workshop. There will be a lottery drawing for student seats. If I don't get in, usually on Sat. evening after the workshop, food is brought in for a dinner with the tutor. I plan on attending that if I'm not there for the workshop.
DeleteA nice piece for a very good cause.
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan
Yes, I'm happy to have been a part of it
Deletethat's a great thing to do - love the art. i'll check out her blog.
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