Magazine
R HODE ISLAN D
vol. 4 issue 4
The
RICM’s Jason LeClair, Writer. Photo taken by RICM’s Jorge Leon.
CREATIVE In You
inventive leader visionary prolific innovative imaginative experimental original educator ingenious productive inspiring motivating daring passionate entrepreneur maker gifted mentor unique inventive leader imaginative19 Vol. 4 Issue 4Designs | The official publication of KS1
from the founder The official publication of KS Designs As I write this letter, I’m sitting next to my threeyear-old daughter, who hasn’t been feeling well all week and is snuggled up in her blanket, watching cartoons. A large Christmas tree, beautifully decorated by my husband, lights up a room filled with my mother’s handmade crafts that I have collected and saved over the years, and pine-scented candles perfume the air. In this setting, I can’t help but think about the comfort I feel because of family. It is the most wonderful time of the year.
Founder and President Kimberly Sherman Leon Assistant to the President Pnina Pressburger
Kim
At this time of year, we are given gifts—such as my mother’s crafts—that create memories and evoke meaning. I put them out every year, and it reminds my family and me of her and automatically fills the home with love. It is amazing how material things can represent a memory, a keepsake, a time in life and a warm feeling of comfort. In this issue, I have hand selected local retailers to help fulfill that creative gift idea that has the potential to become that special memorable and meaningful gift. Whether it’s jewelry, a glass sculpture, or a painting, it is the thought behind the gift that truly makes it personal. And, as always, we have included a variety of topics that encompass the very meaning of creative in their own ways. I hope you enjoy this month’s features and helpful tips that our team has prepared for you. Surround yourself this holiday season with family and friends. Create memories! From our family to yours, Happy Holidays! Sincerely,
Assistant Editor/Writer Kate Strassel Assistant Secretary/Designer Regina Hogan Assistant in Creative Communications/Designer & Writer Joseph Shansky Design Manager Lisa Malm Designers Panhia Lee Kate Hanley Michael Ricci Amy DeSantis Lillian Ferranti Contributing Writers In this Issue Kim Celona Jairo Gomez John Prothero Sheila McElroy Paula Mottshaw Milissa DeFusco Ronald G. Shapiro Ph. D.
Kimberly Sherman Leon KS Designs President & CEO Founder & President, Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Connect - Communicate - Collaborate = Cross-pollination = Greater Awareness, Appreciation and Understanding of our industry.
c 2012-2015 All rights reserved. Rhode Island Creative Magazine is a KS Designs production. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
Cranston, Rhode Island 401.440.3911 kim@ksdesignsri.com
facebook Online twitter @ricreativemag ricreativemagazine RICREATIVEMAG.COM
2
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
contents 2
From the Founder
3
In This Issue
4
Contributing Team
10
Goal Blazing
12
Putting The Craft Into Christmas
13
Saying Thank You at Holiday Time
19
My Holiday Tradition! Cream Puffs
21
Winter Serenity Project
22
I {heart} Rhody
23
SEO Isn’t Dead, It’s Just Different
25
Website Design Projects - Step 3: Getting To Work
28
Creative Calendar
featured articles 14
Relax. You Don’t Have To Stay Within The Lines
17
“Glass Blowing IS A Performance Art”
18
An Artist’s Touch: Celebrating 50 Years
20 For The Love Of Glass 24
Mini Art Show, Huge Impact!
26
Crafted Poetry
on the cover Cover image represents an up close shot of a glass sculpture called “Tango” created by Daniel Read, an expert in Glass Blowing. Read our interview with Daniel on page 17, learn more about the art of glass blowing and how it IS a performance art.
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
3
contributing team writers and designers in this issue
Ron
Kim Kim Celona
Ronald G. Shapiro, Ph.D.
Prolific Artist &Writer
Independent Consultant & Speaker in Human Factors & Ergonomics Writer
a Sheil
John
Sheila McElroy
John Prothero
Writer
Prothero Press Writer
ssa
Mili Milissa DeFusco
Whimsicial Wishes & Delightful Dreams D.I.Y. Crafter
4
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Paula Paula Mottshaw Writer & Designer
e
Mik Michael Ricci Writer & Designer
Lily
Jairo Jairo Gomez
Xzito Partner/Account & Creative Director Writer
Lillian Ferranti Designer
“The team of creative contributors. Each and every month, they provide our
Lisa Lisa Malm
Design Manager & Designer
Pnina Pnina Pressburger Assistant to the President
readers with amazing business tips as well as creative and unique articles and designs which perfectly capture the inspiration of our very talented makers here in Rhode Island. Page by page, they take content and bring it to life using their own style of artistic expression, helping to build a stronger foundation and maintain the creative flow from one issue to the next.
Kate
a Regin Regina Hogan
Kate Hanley
Assistant Secretary, Designer &Writer
Designer
They stand behind me, fully support the hard work this publication entails, and believe in my mission for Rhode Island. I am grateful for all of the new relationships and the positive results that have come from RICM.
Together,
we make this happen…
we bring the vision to life.
Panhia Lee
ia Panh
Kate
- Kimberly Sherman Leon
Kate Strassel
Assistant Editor &Writer
Designer
You can learn more about these amazing and talented individuals on “The Team” page at www.ricreativemag.com.
Amy Amy DeSantis Designer
Joe Joseph Shansky
ShanskyWorks/Founder & Creative Director Assistant in Creative Communications, Designer &Writer
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
5
6
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Since 2012, RICM has been the catalyst for raising awareness of the economic value of the creative arts industry. It is Rhode Island’s one-of-a-kind creative multimedia publication that inspires and informs readers. Audience Maximize your visibility with RICM by reaching a wide audience of thousands of readers, including art enthusiasts, museum and gallery professionals, performing arts, creative arts professionals, business leaders, corporate executives, students, educators and other individuals from all walks of life.
Print On-Demand Printed issues available by demand on-line
Partnerships Result in Expanded Reach of 400,000+ Cross-Platform Marketing & Social Networking reaches thousands daily.
59% Women 41% Men 75% Age 25-54 79% New Users 21% Return Users
Distributed On-line FREE Local & Global Reach
Events, Presentations, Workshops & Internships Servicing the Community Hands-on
The official publication of KS Designs
TOGETHER WE WILL... EXPAND YOUR REACH & GROW A DIVERSED AUDIENCE through our websites, newsletters, online radio stations, print & digital publications.
LEARN MORE WWW.RICREATIVEMAG.COM
D.I.Y. on page 21!
GOAL
blazing By Kim Celona
Artwork supplied by Kim Celona Layout Design by Amy DeSantis
As December brings the close of the year, our thoughts move to 2016. We begin to feel the energy of the future. This magnetic field holds potential, hopes and dreams. The cold and darkness of the winter fosters reflection. Within this self evaluation, emerges some kind of map or plan of our desires. Around this time of year, one can’t help not to ruminate and set some goals for themselves. A goal can only begin to be realized once it is put out there into the universe. One has to say it, think it and believe it before the aspiration can even imagine being birthed into reality. The sun rises up majestically every day. The sky begins as nighttime black and then it begins to lighten up. You see a touch of pink just above the horizon that continues to stretch upward, filling the sky with its warm hue, until the sun is in view and becomes almost a white light. Goals are similar manifestations. They happen slowly. Like the sunrise and the beginning of each day, a goal peers out from the sky just a
10
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
little more at every successive stage; as we take active steps in bringing our dreams into fruition. Any successful person will tell you that they have goals, dreams and visions. These desires move around like the tides. They shift and sometimes turn into other unexpected manifestations once they achieve a momentum. We need to create that force within and without. The visual aspect of the goal playing out is an integral piece in bringing your deepest hopes to reality. One must visualize their prospective reality; to clearly see it and believe it’s possible through visual imagery. It’s like a movie peering into your future. For example, I’m in the process of writing a book of short series. Every day, I get up early, very early to work on it. It emerges as I sip my morning Joe and watch the sunrise; my goal is being actively created. Simultaneously, during the course of the day, when I’m doing a non-preferred task such as my day job, I drift. My thoughts turn to my truth. I see the
“The visual aspect of the goal playing out is an integral piece in bringing your deepest hopes to reality.” objective, using visual imagery. I envision myself with my published book. I feel how it will feel when I’ve achieved this end. I imagine real conversations with publishers, designers and editors. As I write my book, I view it as a live entity. It moves and flows like water. It breathes like me. It holds everything I want and need for now. Before I go to sleep, I go through the same routine. I also hope it enters my dreams to give it even more power and energy. Sometimes, I will even wake up during the night from an idea about the story; a phrase or dream that helped me see something in a different or new way. It counteracts writer’s block. It’s kind of like a walk, but instead of clearing your brain space to fill it with creativity, this method is additive. It’s filling your head with what you want to happen. You are using what Dr. Wayne Dyer calls, “The Power of Intention.” In his view, intention aids the creative process with all the
energy that derives from connecting with the universe. Once you can link this energy field with intention, you become unstoppable in the journey towards your truth. I think creative people have an edge on the visualization aspect of goal setting simply because this is what we naturally do; its how our mind works already. As an additive method, however we both enhance our creativity and also create our reality, not only in artistic venues like the concreteness of a painting or sculpture but making a direct and active path to our goals, wherever they may lead us. If that isn’t a Happy New Year, I don’t know what is.
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
11
Putting the Craft into Christmas
by John Prothero
My family had a long-standing tradition of designing and printing our own Christmas cards. Each year, starting shortly after they married in the early 50s, my parents would create a unique Christmas card that they mailed out to all of our family and friends. Often, these cards were anticipated, as in:
“What will Cliff and Shirley come up with this year?”
I have come across long-time family friends that have told me that they or their parents kept the cards, due to the creative and uniqueness of each one. Of course, having parents that were both artists (my dad was a graphic artist and illustrator, and my mom was a fine artist, painting and doing crafts) made the whole process easy. Often the concept would be hashed out around my dad’s birthday in early November, and by early December, sketches were done and “approved” by my mom, from which my dad would hand draw, and often hand-letter, the art. The cards were printed locally, usually on colored card stock, folded, and mailed. Sometimes, my brothers and I were part of the creative process, even contributing to the artwork. And often, even after the card was printed, my mom and dad would add something a little extra to the card to make it even more unique. One year, the card was printed in black in on a green card stock, and as part of the design (and this was pre-planned), my mom and dad took white poster paint, and added the outline of a Christmas tree. This made the card pop a little more, and added the element of the tree shape, with very little effort. Another year, the design was a 3-sided drawing of a gift box. To add to the effect, they took a length of pink cord (I think it was actually a pink shoelace), tied a bow into it, and then hand-glued the ribbon in place on each card. It turned it into a Christmas gift, with a very simple message. Of course, with all the technology we have these days, it’s easy to make unique and individual Christmas cards, and there is a whole industry that allows you to pick templates and customize them as you wish. But every once in a while, I do see a card that was carefully and creatively done, and it takes me back to the nearly 50-year tradition started by my parents.
12
Wishing you a Happy and Creative Holiday Time!
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
design by Michael Ricci
The year 2015 is coming to a close, and it is traditional to say thank you to customers and employees for their support during the year. This recognition may be an oral or a written thank you or a more tangible gift of nominal or substantial value. Consider:
Writing a personal note to employees, customers (and your family members, too) to tell them how much you appreciate what they have done for others and for you during the year. If you choose to purchase pre-printed cards for this occasion, your card will be much more valuable to the recipient if you personalize it with a detailed message. Giving food or wine as a gift. Traditionally, businesses have given customers and employees turkeys or ham. Of course, giving specific food item gifts may not be appreciated by all. For example, vegetarians would not welcome any animal food product. Individuals who keep kosher would not appreciate any animal product unless it was kosher. Then there are problems with delivery, refrigeration, etc. Joseph Shansky, a member of the Rhode Island Creative Magazine Team, has suggested giving a bottle of a nice wine with the company name on the label as an alternative gift. Many would welcome this gift, but there may be individuals who have selected not to drink alcohol. You could substitute a gift certificate at a grocery store, but the certificate would probably be taxable income if it has a dollar value and it is given to an employee. It might not be taxable if given for a specific item such as a turkey. If giving an edible gift be sure to consider what each recipient would appreciate.
Saying Thank You at Holiday Time by Ronald Shapiro, Ph.D. Layout Design by Lillian Ferranti
Gift a household item. Host a holiday celebration. Make something personal for your customers and employees. Possibly an artist could give a nice print which they have made. A musician could send a custom song. Whatever item you select, the gift will be appreciated more if it connects your gift recipients and you. You may wish to give more substantial gifts, especially to employees. For example, you may know that your employee has a special anniversary coming up and might decide to buy the employee and spouse a weekend at a resort for the holidays. Alternatively, you may know the employee really enjoys golf, but would never buy themselves the golf clubs they want. Thus, you might buy golf clubs for the employee for the holidays. These gifts would be taxable to the employee, so if you decide to give this type of gift, be sure to give the employee additional money (probably equal to the value of the gift) to pay the taxes on the gift as well as the taxes on the taxes, etc. Similarly, if employers frequently give small gifts to employees, these may become taxable. If you choose to give gifts to your business or government customers, check the policy of the potential gift recipient’s employer to be sure this is okay to do. Otherwise, you could end up with an awkward situation. Likewise, be sure to check on the tax deductibility of gifts given for your business. Nominal gifts may be deductible, but more substantial ones would only be partially deductible.
Thank You! for
reading Rhode Island Creative Magazine and Happy Holidays!!! I would like to thank Joseph Shansky and Dr. Margarita Posada Cossuto for helpful comments.
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
13
R e l a x.
C
You don’t have to stay within the lines.
utensils. However, it turns out coloring is very beneficial to adults – it lets us relax.
Written and Designed by Joseph Shansky
Adult Coloring books; the newest global phenomenon.
oloring is an activity that has always seemed best suited for youngsters; a way to occupy young minds and bodies while “we adults” go about our business of driving, talking on the phone or trying to relax from a stressful day at work. But as we get older, we put aside our crayons and colored pencils in favor of more “adult” writing
14
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
“Coloring generates a balanced calmness and centered demeanor while also stimulating brain areas related to motor skills, the senses and creativity” says psychologist Joanna Futransky, Ph.D. Lately, in fact, many of her patients have been asking her about the benefits of using adult coloring books to de-stress.
“Adult coloring books aren’t new. I used Mandalas in my art classes in the eighties.” -Howard Greenberg, former art teacher
N
“I never pictured myself creating adult coloring books.” -Anne Manera
ow, adult coloring books are all the rage. In the last few months the American Art Since her earliest memories she has always been drawing. Her Therapy Association has received many first booklet (at age 5 or 6) was called “The Red Spotted Dog, media inquires about the value of coloring “ done in crayons and stapled papers. She focused mainly on books for adults as a self-care hobby for animals and flowers.Anne received her BA in Art and Graphic stress management.“Some consumers and Design from RIC.“I’d rather be painting or drawing, but graphic media have asked us about the difference design was where I could earn a living.” says Anne. She was also between at-home coloring or for that a pioneer in a new field of studies for her Masters from RIC matter any engagement with art on a private basis, and the art in “Media Studies.” Her courses of study were Digital Art and therapy profession.They are indeed separate topics with one Media Theory. commonality, that art making in and of itself is personally Currently she has a freelance rewarding and potentially practice doing commercial work therapeutic.The American for clients. But a new path has Art Therapy Association put her at a crossroads in her supports the use of coloring career, allowing her to get back books for pleasure and selfto her favorite subject matter, care, however these uses animals and nature. should not be confused with the delivery of professional “This was a bad winter… lots of art therapy services, during Adult Coloring book art styles vary from symmetrical mandalas, like this one on downtime. I got a lot of painting which a client engages with a the left created by Monique Mandali in 1978 to free-form (on right) created by done… mostly floral designs and credentialed art therapist.” Curly’s Mojo in ball-point pen in 2015, and everything in between. birds and animals. It was around March or April of 2015 that I The surge in popularity of began hearing how coloring books for adults was trending on adult use of coloring books is likely due to individuals tapping a global scale. I discussed this new direction with my mom and into and spreading the word about the intrinsic healing being my biggest fan she said,“go for it.” qualities of art that have served as a benefit to people of all cultures throughout history. Since engaging in Anne has 7 coloring books available any form of art can have stress-reducing value, it is on Amazon and Barnes and Noble no wonder that these sophisticated templates for Bookstores - Simple Bird Mosaic, adult coloring have taken on such great popularity The Coloring Party Coloring Book or that there are specific uses when applied in the and Simple Little Angels, Floral Mosaic, proper context. Big Spaces!, Just Color! and Whimsical Dogs & their animal pals.Anne also runs a Coloring books provide a controlled, contained Facebook coloring group “Just Color! with use of art for self-soothing purposes, and Anne Manera.” It already has over 700 their success-oriented nature is conducive to members. fulfillment of the need for instant gratification. They can be completed by anyone with minimal risk. Preprinted designs allow for structure that facilitates safety and minimizes emotional risk which may explain their appeal to broader audiences. For instance, mandalas are often used to promote Material referenced from Anne Manera, Joanna Futransky, Ph.D The Adult Coloring Book Phenomenon, Authors: Richard Carolan, Ed.D, ATR-BC, Donna Betts, President centering and stress reduction.This benefit can be enhanced American Art Therapy Association, PhD, ATR-BC and The Huffington Post. when using mandala coloring books.”
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
15
Get excited. There are coloring groups on Facebook where you can meet artists and coloring book enthusiasts from all over the world, share stories, your artwork and your experiences.
Hi everyone! As Facebook will tell you, I’m Angela Porter and am an illustrator of several adult coloring books including Color Me Calm, Color Me Happy, Color Me Stressfree, Color Me Fearless (a current work in progress), and Entangled, part of the Creative Haven series Why is the world so fascinated with coloring books? by Dover... Click on this link to watch the news video.
My profession, however, is a science teacher! I teach science to pupils with additional learning needs aged 11 to 16, though my illustration work is allowing me to go part time as a teacher from the new term. I live in South Wales, Great Britain. I look forward to chatting with you all in a little while - first I’m off out to get some milk for If you’re looking for a way to explain your new fascination with my tea!* coloring books, click on this link to watch the video.
Hi, my name is Kimberly Garvey and I am a coloring book artist from Fishers, Indiana. I went to Ball State University in the early 80s and majored in fine arts with a specialty of drawing. I have 5 books out on Amazon. *From “Meet the Artists”, a Facebook group of coloring book illustrators and fellow colorists – Anne Manera, Kimberly Garvey & Angela Porter. August 27, 2015, CBS News and MSN
18
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
• Strange Designs (regular coloring book) • Strange Little Designs (minitravel sized book) • Simple Designs and • Simple Designs II (easy coloring books) • It’s Complicated (a difficult coloring book)*
“I finally published my first coloring book, Strange Designs. I got the title from a song by Phish.” I started off as a watercolor artist for years and needed a break and took up doodling in sketchbooks. It was such a stress reliever. I am a mother of a teenage autistic daughter named Cassidy. I love her so much but it is often difficult. I need all the stress relief I can get.* Two year of doodling turned into my first coloring book Strange Designs. I did not know I was drawing a coloring book until November of 2014 when a teenage girl (daughter of a friend) approached me at a party and told me I really needed to turn my doodles into coloring books.*
It’s difficult to go on the net without seeing the global phenomenon of coloring books on the news. How long it will last is anyone’s guess, but the world could use a lot less stressed-out people in it, don’t you think?
“Glass Blowing IS a
Performance Art”
Interview with Daniel Read Written and Designed by Kimberly Sherman Leon
DANIEL READ: There is nothing else like it on Earth like Glass (and the process of glass blowing) because Glass is unique. (I have arguments with scientists about this…) Glass is a form of matter unto itself. Glass is not a solid, Glass is not a liquid, and Glass is not a gas…Glass is a state of matter unto itself…
Glass Blowing is nothing like anything I have seen before. It was amazing to see how it forms into the final design from start to finish. Such skill is needed to perform this production and I was able to witness it first hand. What a treat! Throughout our conversations, there were many strong points discussed that I felt were important to expand on to help deliver a better idea of what this performance art is all about!
At noon temperature it is a solid.
RICM: Your statement about “Glass Blowing being comparable to a Performance Art,” could you briefly explain what do you mean to our readers?
Glass doesn’t become a solid (like water BECOMES ice).
At 2000 deg. F. it is a fluid. As it gets hotter, it gets softer. As it gets colder, it gets stifferIt DOSEN’T change STATE..
Glass doesn’t MELT (like ice BECOMES water). Glass is recyclable over and over and over again.
DANIEL READ: Glass Blowing IS a performance art because of the nature of the process; A. There is a start time and a finish time. B. The PROCESS starts and continues, without stoping, until the PIECE is finished, or crashes on the floor (BUMMER). C. The PROCESS is very complex, much like a Ballet is complex… With a ballet, you have a full symphony orchestra and a Troupe of dancers all working in time with each other to create “Swan Lake”. Once the performance starts , it doesn’t stop (no matter what happens-the show must go on) until the end. The PERFORMANCE might be GREAT, or it may be OK, or it may SUCK!!!. (The CRITIC has his day at this time…).When the PERFORMANCE is over, you are left with your MEMORY on the performance. When I am through with my PERFORMANCE, I am left with THE GLASS. The glass IS the MEMORY of my performance…AND it lasts forever (AS long as the form survives…If you drop it you’re an idiot).
RICM: “There is nothing like the process of glass blowing out there - nothing.” Why do you say this? Photos courtsey of Daniel Read. Layout Design by Kimberly Sherman Leon
Spinal Tap
Glass is Crystal clear and transparent.
Glass is opaque. Glass can be Blown (inflated), Molded, Cast, Pressed, Stretched, Drawn into a thread, cleaved into a blade 1 molecule thick (eye surgeons used glass scalpels), made into windows, slumped (into auto windshields), sculpture (Like the TORSO’s I make)…
Tango
RICM: What do you love the most about glass blowing? DANIEL READ: I love the process… I love the struggle (each piece is a struggle in it’s own way…some pieces are really physical and some are just VERY precise)…Each time I start a piece, the outcome is uncertain, I hope IT will come out OK (but I never know until it is done)…The pieces I make are my Children…My Breath…My DNA…My Work… To Learn more, visit www.danielreadglass.com or email daniel@danielreadglass.com.
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
17
An Artist’s
Touch
Celebrating 50 Years by Sheila McElroy
In today’s digital world there is something enticing about the handmade. The Redwood Library and Athenaeum in Newport, Rhode Island, honors the 50th anniversary of Newport’s treasure, Third & Elm Press, where handmade is heartfelt.
“ Each block [of wood] has a personality.”
Artist Ilse Buchert Nesbitt, owner of the print shop, Third & Elm Press, explains that with hand cut wood blocks each piece is a singular work of art. “Each block [of wood] has a personality. And the carving itself is very intimate...you have to work slowly and carefully, and know when to stop.” Indeed, Nesbitt describes the printing process with hand rubbed color and carefully placed blocks with the same loving and technical approach as a sculptor would. Completing the creative relationship is Nesbitt’s use of handmade paper for printing. Understanding the characteristics of the sheets leads her to make choices regarding how much pressure to apply. “It is all very individualistic. No two presses are alike.” The results are images that are both serene and dynamic - a description that could easily be applied to Ms. Nesbitt herself. Third & Elm Press is located in the historic Point section of Newport, where it produces a variety of original work using handset type, an 1830 Acorn hand press and a 1897 Golding platen press. The exhibit of selected works are on view in the Van Alen Gallery through Sunday, February 21, 2016. For more information on this exhibit, please visit www. redwoodlibrary.org.
18
Photo courtsey of Third & Elm Press. Layout Design by Kimberly Sherman Leon
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
My Holiday TRADITION!
Cream Puffs
Written and Designed by Kimberly Sherman Leon
Cream Puffs are a tradition in my family, which was started by my grandmother. The holidays are not complete without the cream puffs for dessert! I wanted to share this simple recipe with you that will sure to please everyone this holiday season like it does for my family! I got creative with the filling for this recipe. I use the pistachio flavor for Christmas for the green coloring and pumpkin flavor for Thanksgiving. You can use vanilla or chocolate instead. Just get creative with your filling. There is no wrong way of doing it! 1) Mix together pistachio or any flavored instant pudding mix of your choice with one tub of cool whip and 2 cups of milk. Cover and refrigerate.
MOUSSE FILLING
1 tub of coolwhip 2 cups of milk 1 package of pistachio (green for the holiday) or any other flavored instant pudding mix of your choice
PASTRY
1/2 cup butter 1 cup water 1/4 tsp. salt 2 tsp. of vanilla extract 1 tbsp. of sugar 1 cup all-purpose flour 4 eggs
2) Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). 3) In a large pot, bring water, sugar, vanilla and butter to a rolling boil. Stir in flour and salt until the mixture forms a ball. Transfer the dough to a large mixing bowl. Let the dough cool before adding eggs, otherwise the eggs will start ‘cooking’ in the dough and not mix in. It is important to beat in as much air as possible when mixing the eggs until the dough is a sticky, and chewy consistency. Using a wooden spoon or stand mixer, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto an ungreased baking sheet. 4) Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven, until golden brown. Centers should be dry. 5) When the shells are cool, either split and fill them with the mousse mixture, or use a pastry bag to pipe the mousse into the shells. Then top with some powdered sugar or a bit of mousse, whichever you prefer!
Enjoy! Vol. 4 Issue 4 | 19
For the Love of
GLASS
My jewelry designs focus on the color and cut of vintage glass. Much of my inspiration comes from my background in theatre as they have a touch of make believe and fantasy. MARGARITA’S DESIGNS ARE ABOUT THE COLOR AND CUT OF GLASS. HER LOVE OF ART AND BEAUTY BEGAN BEFORE SHE WAS BORN. IT STARTED IN EUROPE FROM HER GREAT GREAT GRANDFATHER WHO WAS A PIONEER IN PHOTOGRAPHY. MARGARITA TRAVELED IN EUROPE, EVENTUALLY SETTLING ON THE ISLAND OF MYKONOS, GREECE. SHE HAD A BOUTIQUE MAKING CUSTOM CERAMIC JEWELRY FOR EUROPEANS FROM A SYNTHETIC ITALIAN CLAY WHICH SHE HAND-PAINTED AND BAKED UNDER THE GREEK SUN. MARGARITA THEN RETURNED TO THE STATES AND SETTLED IN RHODE ISLAND. SHE REESTABLISHED ACTING BY PERFORMING IN LOCAL LIVE THEATRE AND RESUMED MAKING JEWELRY. HER DESIGNS FEATURED VINTAGE GLASS, A MEDIUM RICH WITH HISTORY. IT’S COLOR AND CUT INSPIRE HER CREATIVE VISION AND SENSIBILITIES. DIVERSITY IN THE ARTS HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN MARGARITA’S SOUL WHICH IS REFLECTED IN HER LIMITED EDITION VINTAGE GLASS CREATIONS. Photos courtsey of Margarita DeSantis
to learn more visit www.margaritadesigns.com
OWNING A PIECE OF HER WORK IS SHARING AND ENJOYING A PART OF MARGARITA’S HISTORY.
or connect on FACEBOOK.COM/MARGARITADESIGNS
20
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Layout Design by Kimberly Sherman Leon
WINTER
Serenity
PROJECT
a DIY project by Milissa DeFusco
During my course of action to create this mixed media collage I call “winters calmness”, my inner child brought me back to a time when I would find myself filled with excitement and joy upon waking up to a vision of fresh falling snow. Mother Nature’s actions during the winter months always guide me back to a time when life was simple and nurtured with love and understanding. The ease of silence fills my ears with compassion. I decided to place my collage on an easel to dress up my fireplace mantel. Whenever life gets hectic and I need a moment of silence, calmness or peace, I can escape to this special place I call.....Winter’s Calmness.
Layout Design by Lisa Malm
ITEMS NEEDED • a dhesive: glue dots/tabs, hot glue gun and/or mod podge • w inter or christmas color image • designer craft paper • vintage sheet music • OLd world findings: buttons, lace,TRIM, and doily • d ecorative elements: paper flowers, paper doilies, and glitter snowflake
STEP 1
Make a visual placement of your design that fits suit to the eye of the artist. Starting with designer craft paper, vintage sheet music and winter or Christmas image.
STEP 2
Once in place, adhere old world findings, decorative elements and glitter snowflakes.
STEP 3
Once properly adhered, project is complete.
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
21
For us, no matter where the creative process goes, we love watching the transformation from tattered to terrific!
6. What’s your best seller? We’re just getting started, but so far folks have responded to our Christmas Lights collection.
I {heart} Rhody interviews Ornament Rescue League from Providence
In addition, we were honored to be asked by the Frates family to support the Ice Bucket Challenge campaign and Team Frate Train (www.facebook. com/TeamFratetrain) with our Ice Bucket Challenge Santa ornaments in honor of all the shivering heroes of 2014.
Organization name: Ornament Rescue League Shop name: Ornament Rescue on Etsy onlinE ornamentrescue. blogspot.com
PINTEREST Orescue
FacebooK ornamentrescue
twitter @OrnamentRescue
1. Tell us about your work.
7. How long have you been in Rhode Island? Our members range in age from 25 to 80, hailing from all parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, one Rhody currently living in Colorado, and one long distance member all the way down under in New Zealand!
Once a year, Christmas ornaments make their way out of the attic and onto the tree, glittering with our warmest memories, shining with our brightest hopes.
8. What do you {heart} about Rhode Island?
Because everyone deserves their chance to shine, the Ornament Rescue League refurbishes old ornaments to create new holiday memories for your family this Christmas. And with all proceeds benefitting Hasbro Children’s Hospital, each ornament brings the hope of critical health services for children all throughout the year.
10. Please include anything else you’d like to add:
Small but mighty, Rhode Island pride runs deep! When we tell people that all proceeds are going to support Hasbro Children’s Hospital, everyone beams and buys an ornament!
Thanks to all the family yard sales who have generously donated old ornaments to the cause. We hope you like our rescue efforts!
2. How did you come to be a professional crafter?
And finally, if you and your friends are interested in starting your own chapter of the Ornament Rescue League to support Hasbro Children’s Hospital (or whichever cause is dear to your heart), reach out to us on Facebook, Twitter, or the blog. We’d be happy to share our experiences and help you get started!
We are a group of friends who have come together to have some fun and do some good. Members of the League range from professional artists and designers to crafting rookies. Everyone’s welcomed. All it takes is a little Christmas spirit (and a glue gun!)
3. Where do you draw your inspiration? The Ornament Rescue League is dedicated to the memory of Jill and Cheryl’s mom, Betty McCarthy, a glitter of hope for all who were blessed to know and love her.
Photos courtsey of Ornament Rescue League.
5. What’s your favorite item to create? Each member takes a different approach to rescuing ornaments which makes our collection eclectic and unexpected. If you’d like to see the rescue process in action, stop by our blog.
22
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Connect with I {heart} Rhody
twitter @iheartrhody
facebook iheartrhody
online iheartrhody.com
Layout Design by Kimberly Sherman Leon
SEO Isn’t Dead, It’s Just Different by Jairo Gomez Xzito
Just a few years ago, SEO management was as easy as “keyword stuffing” your way up the search engine rankings. Today it’s a different story, as search engines place a greater priority on relevance, usefulness, mobile-friendliness, speed, and security. SEO is still very much alive; it’s simply assumed a different form. Let’s examine what this evolution means for your own optimization efforts.
Relevance in SEO Management
Smart SEO Strategies to Embrace in 2015
If you’ve always assumed an attitude of “the more, the merrier” when it comes to instances of specific keywords in the body of your blog articles and web page content, chances are you’re hurting your SEO instead of helping it. This practice used to work when Google’s algorithm wasn’t savvy enough to judge your content beyond how many times you’d included those keywords.
With these changes in mind, what should you do to bring your SEO practices up to date? Since relevance is the new gold standard, you might start by optimizing your content. You want the weight of your online argument to be directly supported, not just by specific keywords, but also by synonyms and authoritative information that relate to those keywords, underlining for Google the fact that you really are addressing the concepts that matter to searchers.
These days, however, the search engine giant is more interested in your titles and headers than your body text. A couple of keyword usages in these critical spots can have far greater impact on your search rankings than a dozen of them cluttering your paragraphs. Additionally, individual keywords now do less for you than long-tail keywords. These keyword phrases may generate fewer total searches, but they add specificity, increasing the chances that your content will be relevant to those who find it. In fact, relevance is pretty much where it’s at these days. Google’s addition of algorithmic filters such as Panda have weighted the scales in favor of unique content that seems relevant within the greater context implied by the keywords being employed. So you can no longer simply shoehorn several desirable keywords onto a website that doesn’t seem to bear any clear relationship to them. Google now cares about how much your website or blog’s overall meaning has for the viewers who arrive at it through search results.
But keyword usage and content relevance aren’t the only changes many website owners need to make in 2015. Google has also announced a push toward preferring responsive, “mobile-friendly” web design. If you’re still running a static or fixed website, invest in a more modern design unless it’s just too impractical for the way your customers use your site. Internal links between web pages and up-to-date sitemaps are also more important now than ever in Google’s eyes. You can even gain higher search rankings by reinforcing your site’s security through SSL encryption and other methods, and by altering your design to promote faster page loading. Last but not least, make certain that your SEO techniques are being implemented consistently across all your social media channels, not just on your website.
SEO will continue to evolve, of course. But the more things change, the more they stay the same in one important sense: As long as you focus on creating content that truly matters to your target audience, and present that content to them as helpfully as possible, you’ll continue to stay ahead of the SEO management game. Layout Design by Panhia Lee
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
23
Mini Art
Show, Huge Impact!
Newport, Rhode Island’s Blink Gallery® is a vibrant gallery showcasing savvy world travel images and creative new photography of Newport by gallery owner, Alexander “Sandy” Nesbitt. It is the best source of local art featuring stunning fine art photography. Blink is a unique space with a good feeling and many carefully curated things. Blink is hosting their 1st Annual Mini Art Show this holiday season. “We
are excited about the great bunch of artists we have participating and we think you will be too.” The Mini Art show displays a wide range of works from over twenty young, art school-hopefuls, curious hobbyists, and seasoned professionals who live in or near, or have a strong connection to Newport. Photography, painting, ceramics, collage and more will be on view in this salonstyle show.
In an effort to mobilize our creative community, Blink’s Call for Artists was all-inclusive. The no-barrier-to-entry approach has created a startlingly vibrant collection. The work presented showcases a snapshot of the diversity and talent of our local creative community. In the spirit of all works being “mini” the work has been priced under $150. The Mini Art Show will remain on view until January 9, 2016. This season think small and unique and visit Blink Gallery at 478 Thames Street, Newport, Rhode Island to see the art show and leave with some one-of-a-kind holiday gifts! www.blinkgalleryusa.com
www.facebook.com/Blinkgallery Photos courtsey of Blink Gallery. Layout Design by Kimberly Sherman Leon
24
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
MARKETING RAMBLES Paula Mottshaw Website Design Projects Step 3: GETTING TO WORK You have hired your web professional, and now it’s time to dig in and get to work!
content. And, if the page gets very few views, then maybe the content doesn’t need to be on the new site.
If you’re working with a freelancer (independent contractor) you probably know your contact person. It’s the person who is doing the work. If you’re working with an Sample project plan: agency, you should ask to be assigned to a consistent contact person who will be your contact for the duration of the project, and beyond. Working with the same contact person should help keep your project on track with as few bumps as possible.
To stay organized, you may want to create a separate file (using Microsoft Word or another word processing program) for each page. That way, you can share this information with other staff who may need to review the text or help with copy editing.
At one of your first meetings, you should review all project goals and expectations. You should ask for a project plan that includes milestones (steps in the web site design process), completion dates (when each milestone will be completed and responsible person (who is responsible for each action item). During your meeting, you will talk about project scope. This is important because keeping a project within scope will help to deliver your project on time and on budget. Just like when you are building a house, when you add or change elements of the project, you will (most likely) see costs increase. So, be sure to talk about all project specifics and expectations at one of your first meetings. Hopefully, this will eliminate any surprises and any project scope creep. One of your first assignments (as the client) will be to identify any content that needs to be included on the new site. If you have a large site, this can be a painful process. Just take one step at a time. Go page by page to identify any text and images that you want to keep. If you’re in doubt about whether to keep content, take a look at your analytics. If that particular web page gets a lot of views, then keep the
Take a look at your personal image library to identify any images that you may want to use. Too much text on a web page makes the page heavy (and tough to read). Imagery helps by breaking up the text and engaging your audience. If you need more images, you can purchase stock images (there are tons of stock photo sites) or, if your budget allows, you can hire a photographer. Original photography is awesome because the photos are yours. When you hire a photographer, be sure to talk about copyright and ownership of the photos. Be clear about your expectations. Maintaining good communication throughout a big project like this is essential. Take the time to review the project plan regularly and check in with your contact to be sure no one on the project team has any questions.
Paula Mottshaw specializes in web design and graphic design (print materials) for healthcare and nonprofits. She can be reached at pmottshaw@ mysimpledesignsolution.com. @pmottshaw www.linkedin.com/in/paulamottshaw
Vol. 4 Issue 4 |
25
Crafted Poetry
Honesty. Integrity. A love of poetry and a pursuit of beauty. Simple values Priyadarshini was raised with. It is the same vitality that Priya brings to her studio, and the same sincerity that she infuses into her collections. Photo courtsey of Himatsingka Jewelry. Layout Design by Kimberly Sherman Leon
26
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
Our jewelry is handmade. Our preferred materials are silver, gold, and diamonds, and we meticulously finish each piece at the jeweler’s bench. We file, saw, string, oxidize, hammer, solder, wax, and burnish, and really pay attention to the details. Never overbearing, her extensive collection exudes stylish simplicity, and features quaint details that weave together oldfashioned elegance with modern minimalism. Each jewel is handmade, with a wabi-sabi influence, into a style that is distinctly her own. With pieces typically light in weight, almost ethereal in quality, her works are exquisitely crafted poetry for the body. Priyadarshini’s well-curated collection can be viewed at www.himatsingkacollection.com
Cross-Platform MARKETING with RICM will CONNECT you to your audience.
The official publication of KS Designs
What's happening creatively in Rhode Island? RI’s Comprehensive Arts & Entertainment Calendar
A rtsNowRI.com An easy-to-use calendar that covers all
art related events statewide. You can view the many different artists and events that our creative state has to offer. It’s also where you can submit any events you may be having. Make this your go-to calendar to see what is going on creatively in RI!
12/2/15 - 12/27/15 It’s a Wonderful Life Ocean State Theatre Company 1245 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick www.oceanstatetheatre.org
12/3/15 - 12/31/15 Winter’s Eve: 5th Annual Art Exhibit Friends of East Greenwich Free Library 82 Peirce Street, East Greenwich www.eastgreenwichlibrary.org
12/09/15 - 12/30/15 Robert Busse and Dianne Larkin: Art and Glass Exhibition Tiverton Arts Council Tiverton Town Hall, Tiverton www.facebook.com/TivertonArtsCouncil 12/12/15 - 12/13/15 Winter Wonderland Slater Park Pond Armistice Blvd. Entrance Pawtucket, RI 4-8PM
THRU 12/23/15 Field of Artisans Holiday Pop-Up Market 333 Main Street, Wakefield www.fieldofartisans.com THRU 12/23/15 Little Pictures Show & Sale Providence Art Club Providence Art Club, Providence providenceartclub.org THRU 12/26/15 Holiday Lantern Tour Newport Historical Society Museum & Shop at Brick Market 127 Thames Street, Newport www.newporthistory.org
12/3/15 - 2/21/16 The Redwood Library and Athenaeum 50th Anniversary of Third & Elm Press Van Alen Gallery www.redwoodlibrary.org
12/26/15 The Dancing Feeling 2429 Post Road, Warwick 7:15PM www.dancingfeeling.com
THRU 12/31/15 Salsa Fever Thursdays Mambo Pa Ti Latin Dance Company 1070 North Main St., Providence www.mambopati.com 12/4/15 - 12/6/15 12/11/15 - 12/13/15 Foundry Artist Show Pawtucket Armory 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket www.foundryshow.com
THRU 1/9/16 First Annual Mini Art Show at Blink Gallery 478 Thames Street, Newport www.blinkgalleryusa.com
28
| Rhode Island Creative Magazine
12/17/15 RSVP Group Fashion Up Holiday Style Show Downtown Marriott Hotel 1 Orms Street, Providence 7-11PM Tickets at www.eventbrite.com
12/08/15 DesignX RI Clambake Aurora 276 Westminster Street, Providence 6-8:30PM Tickets at eventbrite.com
12/31/15 NYE Dinner & Countdown at Garde de la Mer 86 Dorrance Street, Providence www.gardedelamer.com
Check out the full calendar online for what is happening creatively on New Year’s Eve!
creativeground.org CreativeGround@nefa.org
Dig into New England’s free directory of creative enterprises and artists Wikepi Baskets
Studio Echelman
Lida Winfield
AVA Gallery and Art Center
CreativeGround spotlights the creative people and places at work in New England, including cultural nonprofits like libraries and theaters, creative businesses like recording studios and design agencies, and artists of all disciplines such as performing arts, visual arts, and crafts.
What Cheer? Brigade
Photo credits (L to R): Theresa Secord (Penobscot); Ema Peter, Courtesy Studio Echelman; Gene Parulis; Gary Hall Photography; Sean Hafferty
Visit CreativeGround.org today to: Promote your work, activities, and services. Log in and manage an informative and engaging profile visible to a broad audience of arts and non-arts invidiuals and enterprises
Find potential collaborators and resources in your cultural community. Browse 30,000 profiles offering a wide range of services.
A project of the New England Foundation for the Arts, CreativeGround is brought to you through partnerships with the National Endowment for the Arts and the six New England state arts agencies.