Going International

I just received the February issue of Patchwork Tsushin, a bi-monthly Japanese quilting magazine that interviewed me last year. Naomi Ichikawa of Tokyo came stateside last year to do an article about quilters in Harlem and I was blessed to be featured along with master quilter Michael Cummings. At the time of the interview the "Harlem Sewn Up" exhibition was on view at the Dwyer Cultural Center so there are pictures from that exhibition. I have a full page spread - how exciting (though the picture of me is definitely on the ugly side). If there are any Japanese readers out there I encourage you to pick up this February issue of Patchwork Tsushin . There are a couple of Japanese magazine stores here in NYC including one that I remember in the Palisades Mall. NYACK, NY.

1/1/11

Well it is officially 2011 and I already have a list of things I want to accomplish this year. Some tasks are just the completion or extension of things started in previous years. Others have to do with achievement in my art, the business of art and getting/staying organized. Cleaning wouldn't hurt either. At least I have hit the ground running by blogging on this 1st day of 2011.

Do you have a list of goals for 2011? I think it is a great idea to help stay focused on the important things. Get a book or keep a list on your computer. Write and the come back to it periodically to check how you are doing. Listed items could be as simple as reaching out to relatives on a regular basis to as elaborate as a major home improvement. Be honest with yourself about what is achievable (reaching for the stars should be on separate visualization list). Use the list as positive reinforcement toward achieving the things that you want and need to do and don't beat yourself up if things don't happen according to the plan. Its all about not allowing time to get frittered away and making the most out of LIFE!

A Proud Mama

Last year I became interested in making a clutch bags and started the journey by ordering some metal frames from Thiland. They sat for a year. Decided to revisit the idea this fall and the results are these wonderfully funky acessories. Part bag, part jeweled accesory and part art, my clutches can set off even the plainest outfit. Most come with a detachable cross body lace or double strand handle (not shown) but you can decide how you would like to feature them. Sold 4 of them this past weekend and I expect not to be able to keep up with the demand once my A-list patrons see them. The hand beading and emblishing make these one of a kind pieces very special. Some even feature beads and buttons I have made.

Holiday Madness

Well the Holidays are here and I am feeling somewhat prepared. I have several new items that I have created for the 2010 season as well as some old ones. Please visit my website at http://thegadsongallery.com/ and the "Harlem for the Holidays" tab for a listing of local events that I will showcase these items. My "Charmed Angels" were a hit this past weekend and at $10 each they are ready to be taken home. Folks have said I should charge more but I create them to be affordable gifts. There are only a limited number and they are moving quickly!

Gadson quilts at the Strivers Gardens Art Gallery

The public art exhibition The Blossom of Fiber is currently on exhibition in the gallery at the Striver's Garden's condominium, 300 west 135th street. Joining that exhibition will be some of my portrait quilts. Portrait Quilts by Laura R. Gadson will feature some old favorites, previously exhibited and new portrait work. Included will be my first portrait quilt, Lisa and The Color Yellow and quilts that have become banners on 125th street: Hazel Scott (2009 banner), Old School Hip Hop (new 2010 banner). The Gallery at Srtiver's Gardens is a private space there are currently 3 scheduled public viewings:

Thursday, July 8 2010, 7-8pm(walking tour with myself and other Blossom of Fiber artists)

Sunday, July 11 9, 2-5 pm (open to the public for viewing)

Sunday, July 18th, 2-5pm (open to the public for viewing)

Striver's Gardens, 300 West 135th Street, between Frederick Douglass and St Nicholas Ave. Take B or C train to 135th street or take 2 or 3 train to 135th street and walk toward the visible park.

shown above: detail of latest work - "Loving to Coltrane"