tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39353948828754535672012-01-29T23:03:34.628-06:00Art & Its ChallengesLauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.comBlogger961100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-56406374050528965752012-01-29T23:03:00.000-06:002012-01-29T23:03:34.638-06:00

My show Going Up? just closed at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft.  Here are some images of the exhibition.  I hope you were able to see it.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-85112814753414701042012-01-25T21:27:00.000-06:002012-01-25T21:27:17.301-06:00

These are images of my solo exhibition Potential Energy that was at the Cole Art Center in August.  I wanted to post the images that were taken by SFA graduate candidate Megan Marcantel. Thanks Megan.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-20571576262884545822011-11-17T17:15:00.000-06:002011-11-17T17:15:17.715-06:00

My exhibition Going Up? is right around the corner at the Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts.  There is an opening reception on Friday, December 9, 2011 from 5:30-8:00.  I'm excited to see the work in a new space and a new environment.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-44091722237903622242011-10-15T13:20:00.000-05:002011-10-15T13:20:48.899-05:00

Here is a gift that I created for a friend- Jeff Brewer.  The bunny design is modeled after his twelve foot version that is displayed in the Arboretum at Stephen F. Austin State University.  I added a married metal umbrella that can spin.  The texture on the bunny was created with a rolling mill texture using heavy grit sandpaper. It is patinated copper and brass and is placed in a lemon thyme

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-36091196353312658882011-09-17T11:03:00.002-05:002011-09-17T11:05:36.919-05:00

My exhibition in the Cole Art Center closes this Saturday.  It was a wonderful experience and I learned a lot about the work.  Here are some images of the exhibition.   ____ At First Sight, 2011 Gallery Statement Leigh, 2011 Gus, 2011 Marcos, 2011 Paul, 2011 Shauna, 2011 The Average Dude, 2011 Correctional Imperium (Martha Stewart), 2010-2011side viewback view Absolution Evangelist (

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-88342249268733247052011-08-16T13:34:00.001-05:002011-08-16T13:37:23.852-05:00

Potential Energy opens at the Cole Art Center on Main Street, Nacogdoches, TX on Friday, August 19th from 6-9 p.m.  Please come by to check out my new body of work.  For more information about the show, check out the press release.  Hope to see you there.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-16039377204079573482011-07-30T21:18:00.000-05:002011-07-30T21:18:12.745-05:00

I just finished another piece.  This is the fifth in a woman series including Oprah, Dolly Parton, Sarah Palin and Martha Stewart.  I included images of the front and back.  I'm having fun and getting a lot of work done.  All of this work will be shown at the show in Nacogdoches in August and in Houston in December.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-52961692512455544582011-07-24T17:07:00.000-05:002011-07-24T17:07:44.791-05:00

This is a new sculpture that is just recently finished.  It includes 99 cast bronze flying rings and 1 silver cast form.  Steel posts spring from recycled tumbled glass in an "s scroll" on the floor. If you'd like to see this work in person, come check it out at the Cole Art Center in Nacogdoches, TX opening on August 19th at 6:00.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-31687109411428003892011-07-24T16:46:00.000-05:002011-07-24T16:46:30.498-05:00

Here are the finished flying rings. Jeff  Paul Leigh Marcos Cho Donny Gus Robin Shauna Tedd

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-52023560370934519362011-06-30T16:04:00.000-05:002011-06-30T16:04:03.257-05:00

I just finished the work about Oprah.  It consists of copper, brass, nickel silver and steel. front back

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-6060473835805109782011-06-22T14:00:00.002-05:002011-06-30T15:35:00.722-05:00

This work has just been accepted to the juried exhibition In and Out of the Box at the Hera Gallery in Wakefield, Rhode Island from 7-9-2011 to 8-13-2011 This show challenges artist to explore the importance of shipping, packing, sending delivering, receiving...  The buckle consists of brass, copper, and a mirror.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-8231497586018065492011-06-02T23:12:00.002-05:002011-06-05T23:03:40.864-05:00

I have a couple of simpler pieces that I want to make about the woman who I admire.  The current series of women "match striker" pieces consist of particular types of women.  I wanted to talk about other celebraties and "normal folk" that make a difference.  I hope these make it to metal this summer.  For now I am helping my sister and brother in law with their new baby.   This is Michelle

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-71085687186933345572011-05-10T23:55:00.002-05:002011-05-11T00:20:55.055-05:00

Now that school is coming to a close, I am trying to produce as much work as I can during the summer months.  Since my sister is awaiting her son's arrival and glued to the tv, computer and books, I post this for her.  Here is the next thing on my mind after Oprah.   Here is a look at the series.  I think it would be stronger with at least seven works.  We'll see.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-70080569647280314442011-05-08T23:05:00.000-05:002011-05-08T23:05:10.574-05:00

Here is the progress that I made this weekend on the Oprah piece.  It's corny so far.  But I think that's right.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-20190817676116868672011-05-06T16:11:00.000-05:002011-05-06T16:11:13.077-05:00

My 3D students displayed their inflatable sculpture in the center of campus.  There is a fountain including a statue of Stephen F. Austin that is standing atop a star at the core of campus.  Many students use this spot as a meeting place and the fountain's nickname is Surfing Steve.  My students responded to this name.  I'm really proud of them.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-65325373450407683662011-05-02T22:32:00.000-05:002011-05-02T22:32:04.053-05:00

On a day where I hope that peace rises above all things, it is interesting timing that I finished the piercing for the Oprah piece.  I was watching the news this morning, hearing about our country and recent history and finished piercing the men and women holding hands.  I can only think about our troops, the victims of 9/11, and all the families left behind.  The timing of the things we make is

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-83086555365871754872011-04-25T14:45:00.001-05:002011-04-25T14:45:41.561-05:00

The Edge of Life Exhibition has moved to the University of North Texas and opened for their Earth Day celebrations.  The show looks great.  Check out the blog.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-86370398800544398902011-04-23T00:10:00.002-05:002011-04-23T01:39:42.414-05:00

Here is my next design for the women series.  Can you guess who it is? FRONT BACK

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-67204128835375647272011-03-20T23:34:00.001-05:002011-03-21T22:15:43.752-05:00

Well, my first unofficial experience as an "art director" has turned out well so far.  I'm so proud of my dad, brother in law, sister and nephew for completing my design for their upcoming baby room.  It has been difficult being so far away and not being able to help, but I can't wait to see it.   Here is the big brother, William, checking out the new room.  I love you guys.  Great job.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-51628885561903812682011-03-20T23:22:00.000-05:002011-03-20T23:22:01.158-05:00

Over spring break, I designed the baby room and worked on a linoleum block for printing.  Working full time, I often find it difficult to get my own artwork completed.  It is extremely important to me to continue to learn about my voice in the art world and constantly keep my hands, heart and mind savvy with materials and new ideas.  So I've decided that I work best with a tool as an extension of

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-80086638670215973682011-03-13T23:16:00.007-05:002011-03-14T10:32:33.745-05:00

Based on requests from the family, here is the new baby room.  The colors are a little toned down compared to what you see on screen.  Just add a little white (in your head) to each color.  The gray portions are doors and the area with bubbles will be the growth chart. Here is the 360 view.  Let me know your thoughts. Colors for the room are from Glidden paint:WGO19 Orange MarmaladeWGO29

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-73309918480301327932011-02-21T23:16:00.001-06:002011-02-21T23:18:29.630-06:00

I'm heading to the Yuma Symposium in two days.  The first day of the conference poses an opportunity to trade hand-made pins.  For these pins, I used lost wax casting.  I would have liked to clean them up more, but it wouldn't be Yuma if it wasn't a late night trying to throw together your Yuma pins.  I'm looking forward.  I have started a group with Crafthaus if you want to follow my adventures

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-34380485600442244122011-02-20T10:06:00.001-06:002011-03-10T17:34:30.735-06:00

"Beyond 40-20-36 (Dolly Parton)" was juried into the Women's Works 2011 exhibition in Woodstock, Illinois.  "Women’s Works™ is a juried fine art exhibit presented annually by the Northwest Area Arts Council (naac).  The show, which coincides with Women’s History Month, has become a much anticipated event in northern Illinois.  It is our goal to focus on women artists of North America.  We

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-87484409193953848002011-02-14T14:30:00.000-06:002011-02-14T14:30:48.956-06:00

Here is the second "Thought Buckle" belt buckle. This work is brass, copper and nickel silver.  Lace has been pressed into copper for the middle texture.  The hole form is riveted together.  This can be worn with the arrow facing up or down.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-24197703709044057412011-02-14T14:28:00.000-06:002011-02-14T14:28:22.630-06:00

Here is the first belt buckle in the "Thought Buckle" series. This piece is brass and copper inlay.  The final form is hollow constructed.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-54613816089191833072011-01-19T22:00:00.002-06:002011-01-19T22:01:09.849-06:00

I just received one of the Crafthaus Conference Scholarships for this year.  I am extremely honored.  You will hear more soon.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-80379493135255052742011-01-07T16:39:00.004-06:002011-01-09T19:43:14.277-06:00

The wall piece that I created in honor of Dolly Parton is finished besides its side component which will be a cast star that holds matches from its points.  I am happy to have another chapter of this series completed.   I'm still considering whether I will keep the guitar or change it.  We'll see what happens.  Here is what it looks like without the guitar. Here are some detail shots.  The

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-77678767553082280892010-12-23T10:05:00.000-06:002010-12-23T10:05:13.085-06:00

The Edge of Life prospectus is out and the work is all in.  Looks like it's going to be an exciting show.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-81235142597766650882010-12-10T17:01:00.000-06:002010-12-10T17:01:45.268-06:00

After being away from my work for a while, I spent about seven hours in the studio working.  It was wonderful.  Here is the second flying ring in progress.  There is a lot of clean-up to be done.   The top piece has the ability to spin and the wheels also move. 

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-50581488654725999202010-12-01T00:26:00.002-06:002010-12-01T16:15:57.863-06:00

After a bit of late night work, I finished my ornaments for donation to the Hooked on Art auction that is hosted at the Cole Art Center.  I had this idea in my head and wanted to get it out. Wall piece has etching that suggest a police line-up. These "Usual Suspects" suggest the search for the star to follow. The back of the ornaments have etchings that I created on Illustrator.   This was a

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-56917131055776078612010-11-15T21:07:00.000-06:002010-11-15T21:07:51.360-06:00

My work Transportable Dialogue has a new home.  I'm so thankful that a wonderful family now owns the piece that was such an integral part of my body of work.  Here's a look. I included glass instead of dirt.  I was very pleased with the final product.   Thank goodness for art supporters.  It really makes my heart flutter knowing that there are people that try to preserve hand made work.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-42289947609499080382010-11-05T14:57:00.001-05:002010-11-05T14:58:38.056-05:00

I have to throw a shout-out to my 3D students at SFA.  While I was teaching high school students for Art Day on Friday morning, they set up our inflatable sculpture.  They problem solved the installation of the inflatable and secured the sculpture for the "lunch crowd".  The sculpture was displayed between the lower and upper art building. The students decided to create a large inflatable ant

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-91695839291059239632010-11-01T19:57:00.000-05:002010-11-01T19:57:54.674-05:00

Thanks to my colleague Chris Talbot, we finally took an image of the work He Said, She Said... in "use".  It is amazing how time away makes me reconsider the intentions that I had for my work.  It seems much brighter now although it had negative connotations when I made it.  I find that the viewer really has the power to translate the work.   Longing for a connection to a mate. Struggling to

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-42466068505176258962010-10-29T11:10:00.000-05:002010-10-29T11:10:59.576-05:00

Hollow construction.  I love it.  I thought I'd show a couple of process photos to give you an idea of how I build these forms.   This form is a little harder to deal with because the holes are off-centered and the dome is sizable.  To get the tube to run through the form perpendicular to the center line is my constant nemesis.   I built this one in a different way than I usually do.  I put the

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-57109182968387560122010-10-17T18:14:00.000-05:002010-10-17T18:14:20.439-05:00

The opening of Metal Heart was wonderful.  I spoke with graduate students in the afternoon and enjoyed seeing the work at the University of Dallas.  After the critiques, I presented my personal artist's lecture just before the reception.  Here are some images of the exhibition.  If you are in the area, you should check it out.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-30965941017101859442010-10-08T15:02:00.001-05:002010-10-08T15:03:14.905-05:00

I finished the belt buckle from this summer.  I also worked on the forest pathology piece today and will post images soon.  Here are a couple of quick shots of the belt buckle.  This is married metal and hollow construction (copper and brass).  Isn't it a fun place for a thought bubble?

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-25524129953997255522010-10-04T20:55:00.000-05:002010-10-04T20:55:46.390-05:00

ASU's Intercollegiate Metals Exhibition featuring ten of my students works and one of mine is on display from October 11-22, 2010 in Tempe, AZ.  We are honored to be part of this exhibition.  Congratulations SFA Art Metals Students.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-85424009191199698112010-10-03T20:35:00.000-05:002010-10-03T20:35:04.259-05:00

The Haggerty Gallery Exhibition at the University of Dallas in Irving is being set-up this week.  I'm looking forward to going back on October 15th for graduate critiques, a lecture presentation, and the opening reception.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-28207872021027986572010-10-01T23:49:00.000-05:002010-10-01T23:49:57.799-05:00

Here is the new steel display for Diagnosed.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-9505999258725291742010-09-25T17:18:00.000-05:002010-09-25T17:18:01.136-05:00

I have an upcoming exhibition at the Haggerty Gallery at the University of Dallas.  I will be showing three sculptural works.  Although some of these works are past pieces, I have created new ways of installing the work.  I always enjoy changing the sculptural work in each exhibition.  I find out new problems and solve a couple along the way.  These are the works.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-30289278485227889592010-09-22T19:30:00.000-05:002010-09-22T19:30:15.218-05:00

I've been working on this work since the summer.  I'm getting close.  The vessel forms are stoneware, thrown on the wheel.  Out of the vessels, a series of tubing has infiltrated the "perfect" form.   I still have clean up to do on the metal elements.  Check out the details of the show.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-49198738785985574862010-09-18T18:59:00.000-05:002010-09-18T18:59:10.957-05:00

I haven't been posting a lot because I am balancing multiple things at once.  I have an upcoming show at the University of Dallas (a two-person show).  It runs from October 8, 2010- November 7, 2010.  I will be doing critiques with graduate students, giving a speech, and having the opening reception on October 15th.  I'm looking forward to it, but I'm re-working some displays.  Here is today's

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-15910553956010098422010-09-10T16:30:00.000-05:002010-09-10T16:30:04.578-05:00

Here is the image of the work for the faculty show.  Finally.  Sorry it took so long to post.  Come see the SFA Faculty Show at the Cole Art Center at 6:00-8:00 on Friday, September 10, 2010. Facebook, steel, cast iron, brass, stainless steel, mirror, 2010

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-5950128652416793072010-08-02T00:02:00.000-05:002010-08-02T00:02:40.420-05:00

Just wanted to give you an update on the Dolly Parton piece.  I've been working a lot.  There is so much hand sawing and so much detail in this piece.   I have most of the pieces done.  I still need to clean everything up, which will take forever.   I also have some enameling to do on the profile piece and on the butterflies.   I've had to problem solve some cold connection challenges, which

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-88247215754779505882010-07-23T00:39:00.001-05:002010-07-23T00:50:29.594-05:00

In the past couple of weeks, I have has a lot going on... so much that I've slacked on blogging.  First, I had to take my dog Chief back to Greyhounds Unlimited.  I spent close to a month with him.  I took him everywhere, spent time with him, worked on training, walked him...  He had such bad separation anxiety when I left, I felt that it was unhealthy for him to live with me, especially since

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-82845714742471397692010-07-23T00:27:00.000-05:002010-07-23T00:27:20.641-05:00

I posted images of the piece I did for the 12 x 12 exhibition.  I learned a couple of valuable lessons.   First, I realized that using these small cast forms is confusing to the average viewer.  I have had "trouble" with using the image of the phone receiver in the past and continue to try to use it in many circumstances.  My overall interest is its symmetry and representation of an object that

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-12784811846123163072010-07-06T13:23:00.000-05:002010-07-06T13:23:29.338-05:00

In an effort to improve my welding, I've been working most mornings on a large steel sculpture.  Today, was a great morning of welding.  I only welded 16 feet and I'm amazed how tiring it was.  God bless the welders; it would be tough to do all the time.  It was fun.   Arc welding- Just to learn it. Today's work Plasma cutting and MIG welding the form together.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-34723801563495537422010-07-06T13:15:00.001-05:002010-07-06T13:17:20.483-05:00

I have multiple projects that I've been working on.   Yesterday, my friends and I visited a Nacogdoches humanitarian that has a wonderful recycling project that he is running.  After being hurt and upset about the city decision to end the recycling program, a group of individuals fought the problem with a clever solution, rather than complaint.   Collections of hundreds of wine bottles, beer

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-22128836740015881202010-07-04T09:45:00.000-05:002010-07-04T09:45:19.761-05:00

I am very honored and excited to be a featured artist on Crafthaus.  Crafthaus is a site created by Brigitte Martin for professional craft artists to share images, thoughts and opportunities across a variety of fields.  This is an amazing site for call for entries, scholarship and grant opportunities, and to look at beautiful contemporary work of artists that take special care and consideration

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-54394726088332433002010-07-01T10:04:00.000-05:002010-07-01T10:04:08.781-05:00

It's a full studio with two greyhounds, but a happy one.  They are keeping me company while I planish my life away.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-36705406014615726512010-06-30T21:37:00.000-05:002010-06-30T21:37:12.742-05:00

I've begun working on the Dolly Parton piece.  Currently, I am working on the hourglass form.  I began this form by creating a low tech die using plywood and a blank of brass.  Once the copper is annealed and screwed to the forms, I used large dapping punches to create volume in the form.  Now I am in the process of planishing the form.  There is a lot of hammering to be done.  I hope the form

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-11461495645158885622010-06-27T13:04:00.003-05:002010-06-27T13:24:41.422-05:00

I had some comments that the shape of the old Dolly Parton drawing looked to similar to a feminine pad, so I modified the design a bit.  What do you think?  Is this shape better. Old Design        New Design

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-31998017875058517242010-06-27T11:15:00.004-05:002010-06-27T11:18:07.857-05:00

After stealing my other art dog (Red) for so long, I finally adopted my own dog to love (Chief).  Having a dog is a new and large step for me, as I am understanding what is like to take care of something other than yourself.  It is nice. His sleeping habits are especially wonderful! He's a greyhound and is a really wonderful dog.  We still have a lot of getting to know each other, but I

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-8224078354653697952010-06-18T16:18:00.001-05:002010-06-18T20:48:23.124-05:00

Here is the drawing that I have so far.  I will be using color with vitreous enamel because it's Dolly.  The back is going to contain information about her dedication to literacy and her beautiful talent for writing and singing.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-83496307093553441032010-06-18T15:43:00.000-05:002010-06-18T15:43:05.713-05:00

For two years, this word bubble inlay has been sitting on my desk at school.  I have showed married metal demonstrations for three semesters using this same piece.  For those of you that don't know, married metal inlay consists of cutting one form out of one piece of metal and cutting the negative in another piece.  The pieces have to fit like a puzzle piece so tight that you can't see light

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-71295569415456497872010-05-30T21:23:00.001-05:002010-05-30T23:57:30.577-05:00

I just finished The Grid for the 12 x 12 exhibition that will be held at the Cole Art Center this summer.  Come and buy it so it has a good home.  All of the money goes to student scholarships at Stephen F. Austin State University. These forms resemble the speaking end of a phone receiver.  I originally fabricated one out of copper sheet metal using hollow construction techniques.  Each hole

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-69637141536046545142010-05-28T01:38:00.000-05:002010-05-28T01:38:27.607-05:00

I just had a new thought for the 12 x 12.  It's going to take way to much time for being sold for $100.00, so make sure that you come to the Cole Art Center on July 10th to buy it.   I'm thinking it will be interactive.  Hmmm, we'll see what happens.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-40615183887689110842010-05-28T00:08:00.000-05:002010-05-28T00:08:47.637-05:00

I noticed this year that I love fabricating and I push the limits to try to get so good at it that I will need very little clean up.  Casting... oh casting.  Cut off the sprues, file, file, and file some more.  Certainly a flex shaft can be used, but there is nothing like elbow grease and a large cross cut file to get something shaped to perfection.  So I filed all day today, and Red (the dog)

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-30631067591447770222010-05-26T12:59:00.000-05:002010-05-26T12:59:35.793-05:00

Summer- Freedom has arrived.  I took a couple of days to see the family and now I'm back to work.  I'm so excited about what the studio has to offer me this summer.  I truly believe that the first step to getting to work is to clean up the studio, re-organize, put away the old work that you don't want to work on right away, and start fresh.  A friend of mine was going to come over and keep me

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-72099518071392854792010-05-17T15:13:00.001-05:002010-05-17T15:24:15.083-05:00

SFA has a fundraising event in the summer where they ask faculty and community artists to create 12" x 12" panels and donate these works for a fundraiser for student scholarships.  I need to move on mine, so again, I'm starting with sketches.  Any feedback would be appreciated.  The phone receivers will be bronze that are possibly held out from the panel by wire posts.  The form on the bottom

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-15871950503271412722010-05-12T22:45:00.001-05:002010-05-13T23:47:52.258-05:00

I've had some friends ask me, how did this new body of work start.  The wall piece series of women that I am creating came from a surprising and true art moment.  Last summer I felt as though all ideas were old and tired, my creativity wasn't flowing and I felt very little confidence while I was working.  I wanted to make something special for my best friend but was teaching a summer class that

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-57827374517770505902010-05-12T21:37:00.004-05:002010-05-12T21:40:28.273-05:00

This is the side piece that accompanies the Martha Stewart piece.  It is a seperate wall hanging that will hold the "elegant soap on a rope."  The Martha Stewart piece is currently exhibiting in Tucson, Arizona at the Raices Taller 222 Art Gallery for the Mujeres, Mujeres, Mujeres exhibition.  Here are the details for the show:"Our annual exhibition of art by women, Mujeres, Mujeres, Mujeres is

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-29661717887991495072010-05-11T21:54:00.000-05:002010-05-11T21:54:01.854-05:00

If you were wondering what I am up to right now with my work, here is a small taste.  These are wax forms that are now cast into bronze.  I am unsure of what I will be doing with the forms, but I'm back to the phone receiver imagery.  Should be fun to play with.  Keep watching... more to come, soon.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-41036000669467093072010-04-16T23:05:00.000-05:002010-04-16T23:05:41.778-05:00

Better photographs of Martha Stewart piece.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-35872471972691979002010-04-04T00:27:00.000-05:002010-04-04T00:27:27.059-05:00

I started at 9:00 this morning and it is now midnight.  The main piece of the new work for Martha Stewart is done.  I had a lot of problem solving to do and a ton of riveting.  I'm pretty pleased with the final product.  It's not perfect.  It's amazing that it never is.  I do think it looks better the the original drawing that I posted a month ago.  It was so fun to work.  Looking forward to

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-82504455107496158592010-03-22T22:47:00.000-05:002010-03-22T22:47:11.331-05:00

I have to throw a huge shout out to my favorite designer and buddy Phil Jones for having his new t-shirt design picked up by Threadless.  Phil designed my website back in the day when we both were young, talking about the wonders and possibilities of art and bringing art to the world.  Some of the best moments of my life were spent dreams, designing, and brainstorming with Phil in a little

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-2511956940511698722010-03-21T21:37:00.000-05:002010-03-21T21:37:11.972-05:00

I'll post a better image soon, but wanted to show the back piece.  It's etched in brass using ferric chloride.  I am happy with the texture in the figure.  I will be adding a picture hanger where the roof of the house lies.  Looking forward to getting this piece done.  Way too much sawing.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-30217138801516677592010-03-21T18:36:00.000-05:002010-03-21T18:36:00.027-05:00

Here is another version of my 30 minute ring.  The ornamentation on the edges add a lot.  I also sanded more of the cup down so that the bezel doesn't cover too much of the marble.  I will likely patinate the copper with liver of sulfur.  Thats all for now.  Back to school tomorrow.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-25881932110844100682010-03-20T13:59:00.001-05:002010-03-20T18:08:47.583-05:00

For some, you are going to read this post and think "get done with this piece already" or "post new stuff."  This post is for the others.  People always ask "How did you come up with that?"  So I'm attempting to show some of my practice.  I have been drawing a lot more, in the sketchbook and on the computer.  I went to the East Texas Archaeological/ Caddo conference today, and sitting in a

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-9191995442859594282010-03-17T23:23:00.001-05:002010-03-17T23:24:01.272-05:00

I worked all day today.  I applied for the Lark Books 30 minute rings and I worked on the Martha Stewart piece.  I got the etching done today and cut out a void in the brass.  Looking forward to getting this one done. So the other thing going through my head.  I created a profile piece of Martha using the technique that Dale Wedig showed at Yuma- casting into ceiling tiles.  I really love the

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-86487968467225893012010-03-17T22:48:00.000-05:002010-03-17T22:48:14.968-05:00

Lark Books recently had a call for 30 minute rings.  I proposed a ring that I created for a demonstration for non-traditional stone setting.  A couple of months ago, I was getting a demonstration ready for an intro class and was going to show setting objects from nature in resin.  I wanted it to be a wearable piece so I created a ring out of a few things that I found laying around.  I had a 1/2"

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-78441075148119261902010-03-10T22:31:00.000-06:002010-03-10T22:31:36.917-06:00

I have been side tracked from my work since Yuma with grading and catch up.  I recently created new post cards.  In my quest to promote my students, I designed a post card and blog, but I totally forgot about self promotion.  Hmmm, I'm bad at this.  So I went ahead and got a new post card. I have done some low tech castings and a little work on the "Martha" piece that I will post soon.  So

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-55947807998230295922010-02-19T21:59:00.000-06:002010-02-19T21:59:41.437-06:00

I needed to check out some new tools that I ordered.  So instead of work, work, work... I played, played, played.  So I went ahead and made my Yuma pins for trading at the Yuma Symposium.  I printed out a map for the Google directions from Nacogdoches, TX to Yuma, AZ.  I transfered them to metal using PnP paper, etched the imagery, annealed the metal, punched out the forms, and used mushroom

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-54306827102078325642010-02-17T20:32:00.000-06:002010-02-17T20:32:08.545-06:00

For all those who are watching and waiting for me to figure out the balancing game of making art and teaching (mainly my loving family), here is the progress on the Martha Stewart piece.  I have clean-up and the muffin border will have a line pierced in to indicate the wrapper.  I'm interested in where this is going.  Stay tuned.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-3830989506135189142010-02-13T10:51:00.001-06:002010-02-17T20:08:56.775-06:00

Okay, this is my last thought. (as a drawing)  I'll make it and let things change as they need to.  I'm thinking that the daisy will be cast soap.  The chain will probably be Roman chain.  The white dots are fine silver rivets.  The light bulbs will be roll printed (embossed) into nickel silver.  There is a lot of word play here and a lot of blatant imagery.  I think I'm comfortable with that.  

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-20404310951630871992010-01-17T22:30:00.000-06:002010-01-17T22:30:06.676-06:00

So here is the set-up.  There I was, rolling along, making at the speed of light, and in the final clean-up stage of the pieces that I have been working on.  All of the sudden, I created a small hole in the corner of one form while filing.  Filing, an action of hand labor where you cut away small amounts of material at a time.  You're eyes are close, the file is an extension of your hand, and

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-23706523990156068932010-01-12T20:32:00.001-06:002010-01-12T20:33:32.664-06:00

Well, I took a quick break from my personal artwork.  For those of you who have followed my blog for a while, you are aware that I am an educator first.  School is coming and I am trying to create an amazing experience for my students.  So I've been planning, planning, and planning.  Yesterday, I created a blog for my students and their work.  I wanted everyone to be able to access what we've

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-59260907683801247472010-01-10T23:02:00.002-06:002010-01-10T23:06:52.081-06:00

Here is my first attempt at paper flying rings with geometry. You can see that the scale a lot larger than the metal forms. It is still a bit flimsy, but I wonder if I add the cylinder in a lower position, if it would hold its structure. We'll see. This is three layers of tissue paper and ModPodge. Definitely having trouble with it sticking. I think the light would be nice passing through

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-15344688171462053422010-01-10T22:55:00.003-06:002010-01-10T23:01:54.039-06:00

Even though it's the same one, I thought I'd show my flying ring sanded and hanging. I hope I can get the other six done before teaching starts. I'm going to try, but I need to plan classes first. Ah, the joys of teaching.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-31488179712295075662010-01-08T19:37:00.007-06:002010-01-08T23:54:05.617-06:00

To make or not to make. I worked on this design today. I've been planning another work that would look nice with the Sarah Palin piece from last year. I'm not sure what has happened that I'm interested in this massive amount of blatant imagery and pattern, but it's kind of interesting to me. I enjoy how one object next to another begins to look like a rose window and becomes decorative while

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-73102309550891654832010-01-07T23:05:00.003-06:002010-01-07T23:17:10.678-06:00

One down, and hundreds to go. This little guy is the first "test piece" for how I'm going to efficiently build my Flying Rings. Still have some clean-up, but having fun.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-19037533015308898802010-01-04T16:01:00.001-06:002010-01-04T16:04:00.750-06:00

Here is my best studio critic. He keeps me company, keeps me working, and tells me when the work is done. Art dogs are so amazing.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-59996456743891834932010-01-04T15:54:00.004-06:002010-01-04T16:01:24.719-06:00

I'm back in the studio and feeling lost and found all at the same time. What is it about getting your hands dirty and smelling the studio that can set you right. For now, I've gone back to a couple of older ideas that need revisiting. If anything, it is worth soldering again. I love it... conquering heat and telling it or lovingly suggesting for it to go where I need it. All is well.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-5303659803685051482009-12-06T22:51:00.004-06:002009-12-06T22:56:35.179-06:00

I'm back to managing my world of teaching, art making and living life. I've got the teaching and living life, and have been getting my home studio ready for art making. Nice weekend of work.A little bit of woodworking and a bit of metalworking. We'll see...

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-40664293732452396452009-10-24T22:10:00.002-05:002009-10-24T22:35:19.377-05:00

In the past week, I've had Tedd McDonah, my former professor from Arizona State University, come and build a forge with me and fire billets for mokume gane. It was a wonderful experience. Shortly after he left, I hosted another workshop for students and their friends that consisted of cuttlebone casting. It's been a fun couple of weeks.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-68457901223095664172009-10-15T22:19:00.002-05:002009-10-15T22:21:50.187-05:00

Refined Exhibition is posted for call for entries. This is a beautiful show hosted at the Cole Art Center in Nacogdoches, TX. You can enter up to five works.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-79253977722037376422009-09-14T00:25:00.005-05:002009-09-14T19:17:49.411-05:00

This is not associated to art, but maybe it will be. You never know when the inspiration will strike. I got a road bike, and plan to explore.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-86687275789202201772009-09-11T22:13:00.008-05:002009-09-14T00:24:52.046-05:00

This evening we had the faculty exhibition at Stephen F. Austin State. It was a wonderful evening, and the professors are so talented. I'm so lucky to be in the presence of such "greats."Here is a new work of mine.Here is old work, but new to me. The last time I saw this piece, I hated it. Now, it was like meeting an old friend. Nice to be in a new place in life.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-82736344105549594752009-08-18T06:21:00.002-05:002009-08-18T06:27:21.297-05:00

I recently got the opportunity to go the the Gault project in central Texas to help with an excavation. Inspired by archaeology and the precise nature of preserving and saving relics and artifacts of our past, I have been exploring the options of working closer and closer to the field. I took a bundle of my students with me and we had an amazing time. The people were wonderful and very

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-15682367758636393512009-06-21T09:39:00.005-05:002009-06-21T10:02:58.416-05:00

I have recently been on a long sabbatical from blogging.  It's not that I don't think it's important to share, it is a loss of time and understanding of what to do first.  I recently went to Europe on a quest for inspiration.  I hope it worked.  Here are a couple of images.  Rome.  These images have certainly been taken a million times, by people from all over the world, with different

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-33835416860009301612009-01-12T18:11:00.003-06:002009-01-12T18:18:21.501-06:00

I guess the first step is having a good environment for working.I just built this. I'm pretty happy with it. Simple and works well.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-89565031498750588382008-11-15T22:30:00.003-06:002008-11-15T22:48:15.206-06:00

I recently participated in the Webster Show at the Cole Art Center. This gave me an opportunity to make work with a quick deadline. I was given a page from the dictionary and the work had to be done in a couple of weeks. With the words travel, traverse, trauma, and treasure in mind, this work embraces the regional conversation starters that I have grown to adore. Webster's dictionary states

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-55761647962007172512008-11-12T18:59:00.005-06:002008-11-20T23:48:06.120-06:00

My article about fire and our link to the past is featured on a wonderful website. I was asked to write an article about cuttlebone casting and found it a challenge to talk to a digital crowd about "archaic" technology. I put in a lot of research and time; it was fun. I hope to keep writing more. This is the first "intelligent" article that I have out there, so I'm pretty excited. Enjoy

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-51644342937243784952008-11-09T22:56:00.005-06:002008-11-09T23:14:49.828-06:00

The faculty exhibition at SFA is on its way down, and I thought I would show a couple of pictures of my piece. I still need to take more photos, but here is what I have for now.

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-77201864240582736922008-08-02T23:08:00.001-05:002008-08-22T12:57:03.887-05:00

I hardly accept these rooms as my "art work". However, I did paint these rooms and did enjoy doing so. Lately, I've been wanting to paint walls wherever I go. Thought the world might be interested in these rooms and since I haven't made work in a couple of months, I thought I'd show things that haven't been seen.I don't like this one as much. But it was my first and I did like painting on the

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3935394882875453567.post-11502914752672874892008-04-28T13:22:00.000-05:002008-04-28T18:27:52.069-05:00

My MFA Thesis Exhibition was up on April 14-18 at the Harry Wood Gallery at Arizona State University. For those of you who didn't see it, here are the images. Thanks for all the support.Engagement is created with 130 copper hollow construction forms that are configured in a steel frame and suspended on steel pipe. Each object can be turned to reveal a simple image that was created with vitreous

Lauren McAdamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01739154331424514365noreply@blogger.com0