tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90007070213372926252024-03-12T22:24:33.613-04:00Pigment of my ImaginationSilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-27116957680010156742012-08-08T23:23:00.000-04:002012-08-08T23:23:13.715-04:00Types of Silk for Costuming and Veil Work in Belly Dance<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i><strong><br /></strong></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i> From my notes on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Silkdancer/167946419883868" target="_blank">Silkdancer page</a> on Facebook written Wednesday, July 25, 201. </i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i>
Sericulture, or production of silk, has been practiced in China for
more than 5000 years. Silk is a natural protein fiber, much like your
own hair. The best-known type of silk is obtained from the cocoons of
the larvae of the mulberry silkworm <em>Bombyx mori </em>reared in
captivity.[1] Just as the shape of your hair strand can create the curl
and texture of hair, the unique molecular structure of the protein gives
silk its lustre. The shimmering appearance of silk is due to the
triangular prism-like structure of the silk fiber, which allows silk
cloth to refract incoming light at different angles, thus producing
different colors.[2]</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i> No other fabric has the
loft of silk as a dance veil. It sometimes appears to have a life of its
own, and to move like a partner to the dancer, as opposed to merely
being manipulated as a prop. Its weight is measured in units called <em>momme</em>
(mm). It is akin to thread counts in cotton fabric but calculated in a
very different manner. As with cotton the higher the number of mm, the
denser and heavier the silk fabric. Different weights and weaves of silk
produce a wide variety of appearance and manner in which the fabric
will fall or move in motion. The size and shape of a silk veil used in
dance can also greatly affect the venue in which it is most appropriate
to be used.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i> The most common silk weaves used for
veil work are Habotai (or Habutai) and Chiffon, with Charmeuse a
distant third. Most commonly called China Silk, Habotai is one of the
most basic, simple weaves. It has a lofty float and also the appearance
to hang in the air while used in dance. Chiffon is usually very sheer.
While it also floats well, when used as a dance veil, its movement is
more fluid and water like. Charmeuse is a satin weave. One side is
matte, one is shiny. It is generally a heavier fabric and takes a bit
more energy to utilize it to its full potential. The shiny smooth side
of the fabric will reflect flashes of light, and it moves like a matador
cape or flag.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i> After many years of observing and
speaking to dancers, as well as personally manipulating silk and dyeing
silk, I have found the properties of various weights and weaves
influence how they are used as a dance prop.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i><strong> 5mm Habotai</strong>
– A very light silk, this fabric has the most “air like” quality and
stays afloat the best. It is best used for rectangular shaped veils
whether standard size (45” x 3 yard) or extra wide and extra long. This
quality allows for beautiful movement in performance. This silk appears
to have a life of its own. I have heard many dancers anthropomorphize
and refer to their veils as “naughty”, “mischievous”, or “misbehaving”
when it blows the wrong way despite hours of practice. This silk also
lends itself very well to large half circle veils, whether used
singularly or in pairs. The curved edge of the veil in connection with
the light weight creates a beautiful ripple when moved in a circular
motion. I have seen it used beautifully in semi or petite half circles
(45” x 3 yard or 45” x 2-1/2 yard) but the light weight of the fabric in
these sizes does not seem to hold the shape of the veil as well as a
slightly heavier fabric might. 5mm is also the preferred weight for Fan Veils as it is light and allows the silk to flutter beautifully. </i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i><strong> 6mm Habotai – </strong>Just
the tiniest bit heavier than 5mm, 6mm Habotai gives up a little of the
float but allows for a little more control over the veil. I have also
found its slightly denser fabric produces a deeper color when dyed. It
works beautifully as a rectangle and large half circle, and I have found
the added weight to be an asset when manipulating semi circles as well.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i><strong> 8mm Habotai – </strong>8mm
is the heaviest I would recommend for use of this fabric as a dance
veil. While it still has the movement properties of the lighter weights,
it does not hang in the air as long as the 5mm silk does. Its density
makes the colors richer yet. It is easier to handle and is an excellent
introductory weight for the dancer who has never used silk. 8mm works
beautifully as a semi and small half circle, particularly as poi. It
holds the curved shape of the veil a little better than the lighter
weights and the centripetal force exerted while spinning poi flares out
much more than a 5mm silk would. It takes more work to use large half
circles made of this choice, but the effects are gorgeous. The silk
looks like large wings. This is the minimum fabric weight for Habotai
circle skirts. 10mm also makes a beautiful skirt.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i>Habotai ripped
on the grain will not fray, giving dancers the option to hem or not to
hem, given personal choice. Veils cut as circles must be hemmed. I have
found a tiny, flat hem the best choice. It does not impede the float of
the silk.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i><strong> Silk Chiffon 6mm-8mm –</strong> While I
compare Habotai to air for its ability to float, I liken Chiffon to
water. While a little heavier than Habotai, it moves more softly and
fluidly though the air. Chiffon is a sheer fabric. It does wrinkle
easily, so it must be stored carefully when not in use. This see
through quality creates mystery - as a wrap entrance as it allows a hint
of what is yet to be revealed. It is best used as a rectangle veil or
for circle skirts. Iridescent chiffon is a shimmering, sheer fabric that
changes color in light. It is created by weaving two color threads in
the warp and the weft. Combined with the luminescent quality of silk, it
appears to glow on stage, flashing several colors at once.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i><strong> Silk Charmeuse –</strong>
This fabric, no matter the weight is matte on one side and shiny on the
other. It is opaque, generally much heavier than both Habotai and
Chiffon. Although I have seen it used as a veil, this fabric is very
fluid in movement and more suited for skirts. Veils made of Charmeuse
have a cape or flag like quality.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i> Silk, no
matter what weight or weave moves like no other fiber. The key to
working with it is experimentation and practice. Silk has a life of its
own as a dance partner. Once I experienced my first silk veil, I was
mesmerized. The passion grew my business and deepened my love of
Oriental dance.</i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
[1], 2 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silk</div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<i><em> </em></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<i><em> © 2012 Silkdancer.com</em></i></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-50590081609401733422012-08-08T19:42:00.000-04:002012-08-08T19:42:00.503-04:00A little bit about color theory....<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i>In many of my conversations on color choices with customers I have
realized my lifetime experience as an artist, my hard-earned education
and decades of experimentation with color is quite an asset in assisting
them in choosing the right combination
for their silks, and educating them in the psychology of color. It is a
very fascinating study - I am going to share this knowledge and my own
insights through a series of posts, photos and blog entries. To begin,
please enjoy this educational video :) </i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/yu44JRTIxSQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-17702266312189512332012-08-08T19:35:00.002-04:002012-08-08T23:08:14.420-04:00Where have I been?<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-style: italic;">In the time between my last REAL post (almost three and a half years) I have been on an amazing journey. I never stopped dyeing, selling and experimenting with silks, but my infant daughter became my life. My husband and I decided together to do everything we could to keep me home and her out of daycare, and at her recent 4 year well checkup, my daughter has overcome and surpassed any evidence of being born premature. She is healthy, taller than average, and well advanced developmentally for her age. I kept my business scaled down, gave up quite a bit of the time I used to dance, and had to adjust to the fact that I couldn't keep a "perfect" house like I wanted to.That being said, I never prescribed myself solely to the role of wife, mother and homemaker. My family was my first priority and I did sacrifice a great deal, but I was constantly working. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I collaborated with many creative and talented people. I danced as a soloist, in three troupes, was the dance captain for one of these prestigious troupes and was in many fabulous shows. I grew as a person, and an artist. I was pushed to create more unique and creative dance silks. My business grew year by year. Although I kept it part time and it was not the primary income for our family, my husband and I never considered it a "side business" for extra cash, but an investment in the developing of my business which would allow us time for the most important investment of our lives - our daughter. We sacrificed quite a bit for our choice. Now that she is a little older and in preschool, I will be focusing more on Silkdancer and growing the business. I'll be telling the stories of the past four years, sharing my insights and educating my customers on the many marvels of silk and color. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Talk to you soon! In the meantime - Happy Dancing! </span></span></span>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-58670852091735182292012-03-29T23:46:00.000-04:002012-03-29T23:47:00.958-04:00Superwoman Day, Aug 3, 2011 - an amusing read Thursday, August 4, 2011<div class="clearfix note_content"><div><p>8 am - get up, feed cat & toddler - watch Mickey Mouse Club</p><p>Dye 7 veils</p><p>attempt potty raining</p><p>play tag with cat and toddler</p><p>play hide and go seek with toddler</p><p>wash and fold 2 loads of laundry</p><p>make snails out of Play-Doh with toddler</p><p>pack 5 packages</p><p>feed toddler snack, ignore begging fat cat</p><p>pack lunch</p><p>go to bank</p><p>go to post office</p><p>get caught singing "Lollipop" ... be told I am waaaay too young to know that song<br /></p></div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-81675245992357527242009-03-29T23:32:00.014-04:002011-01-11T14:03:39.745-05:00Four Seasons Headpiece Wreaths<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdBIBR5E7zI/AAAAAAAAADg/fj1l1tcN_lY/s1600-h/DSCF0331.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318830346744426290" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 200px; height: 150px;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdBIBR5E7zI/AAAAAAAAADg/fj1l1tcN_lY/s200/DSCF0331.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My talented friend Sarah Skinner (<a href="http://www.weclick.net/">http://www.weclick.net/</a>, <a href="http://www.shakemyday.com/">http://www.shakemyday.com</a>) seems to always be cross-inspiring me. As she was developing her unique and beautiful style of baby bump photography, she asked me to create four headpiece wreaths inspired by the four seasons for use in her photo shoots. I love living in the Northeast, experiencing all four seasons, so this was a task I was eager to undertake. </span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Some of my favorite memories of Winter is when the trees become <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">encased</span> in ice and create a magical crystal wonderland. I did not want to create a "Christmas" or evergreen wreath. I wanted something icy blue and sparkling. </span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Spring made me think of the cherry trees flowering, the roses budding, and the daisies showing their lovely heads for the first time. My mother's house had many flowerbeds. I used to get up early in the morning and walk the property before leaving for the day. The dew would be glistening on the petals. I wanted to recreate that feeling.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Summer reminds me of rich, bright colors, and of the excitement of seeing the tiger lilies rear their heads. Any child that has planted sunflower seeds has their patience rewarded with huge medallions of yellow at summer's end. It was also the Season my daughter was born, so I was inspired to make a matching child's wreath as well. The Mother/daughter set look lovely together.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Fall of course in the Northeast is a celebration of color - one last party before the winter rest. My favorites are the maple and oak leaves. So much joyous color, one last hurrah before falling to the earth to become next year's fertilizer. To me, Fall was never a depressing reminder of Summer's end, but a beautiful reminder of the whole cycle of life.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Here are the results of my musings: </span></em><br /><br /><br /><div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-89423694675459900262009-03-29T23:31:00.002-04:002009-03-29T23:32:03.643-04:00Winter<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA9LHZvGNI/AAAAAAAAAC4/UUEmTfuq8fA/s1600-h/DSCF0259.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318818421099403474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA9LHZvGNI/AAAAAAAAAC4/UUEmTfuq8fA/s400/DSCF0259.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-22442895206509278212009-03-29T23:29:00.002-04:002009-03-29T23:30:55.821-04:00Spring<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA85w4unGI/AAAAAAAAACw/rUeesr3seLw/s1600-h/DSCF0271.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318818122997603426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA85w4unGI/AAAAAAAAACw/rUeesr3seLw/s400/DSCF0271.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-24793838776258801812009-03-29T23:28:00.002-04:002009-03-29T23:29:30.954-04:00Summer<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA8jwuyS6I/AAAAAAAAACo/7f7GYE3lIp4/s1600-h/DSCF0316.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318817744998779810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA8jwuyS6I/AAAAAAAAACo/7f7GYE3lIp4/s400/DSCF0316.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-28984161086577910042009-03-29T23:26:00.003-04:002009-03-29T23:28:27.512-04:00baby Summer<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA8QbdMHtI/AAAAAAAAACg/f8RfrEvrEos/s1600-h/DSCF0322.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318817412870315730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA8QbdMHtI/AAAAAAAAACg/f8RfrEvrEos/s400/DSCF0322.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-36635967559899123942009-03-29T23:24:00.001-04:002009-03-29T23:26:55.338-04:00Fall<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA74XIM-zI/AAAAAAAAACY/c0vngCdrmMc/s1600-h/DSCF0319.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318816999391689522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SdA74XIM-zI/AAAAAAAAACY/c0vngCdrmMc/s400/DSCF0319.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-47432929369029171572009-03-02T13:49:00.005-05:002009-03-06T09:49:55.852-05:00a New Crop<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SawqXzMFgAI/AAAAAAAAACQ/1Ma_5dj03yM/s1600-h/seedlings.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308664649129230338" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 140px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SawqXzMFgAI/AAAAAAAAACQ/1Ma_5dj03yM/s200/seedlings.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">First of all, thanks for the many messages of concern and love I received from my last post. I am blessed so many would reach out to me.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">I was looking in the mirror a few weeks ago and I noticed something very funny looking...........two "puffs" of fluff at my temples, and what looked like very short bangs. Upon closer inspection, I discovered <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">YAY</span>!!!!!!!!!!! My hair IS growing back in! Oh it looks so very funny, I have an awful cowlick at one temple and I have to use a ton of product to keep the "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">bangsies</span>" down. </span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Overall, it's been a fruitful few weeks. I dyed some really beautiful color combinations on some veils, skirts and fan veils. I did not have the time or energy to work on my more elaborate or "art" pieces, but really some beautiful <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ombres</span>. I can't wait to photograph and post the new work. I got two good sized troupe orders and I am preparing for the upcoming Spring vending schedule.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">I'm still struggling with the time management issue, but really happy with the new work and what I have accomplished so far. Whoop - ! Back to work to my first full time job, my 8 month old "boss" is calling me!! </span></em></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-90560567685718501312009-01-15T01:23:00.007-05:002009-01-15T02:32:35.465-05:00Inspiration and good friends<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291413624632693330" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SW7gqA_k0lI/AAAAAAAAABk/fQ08yy41TdU/s200/me+and+v.jpg" border="0" /><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Today I dyed four veils.</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The photo to the left is my daughter Veronica at four months and myself. It was taken by Sarah Skinner, her work throughout my pregnancy and early months of Veronica's life has brought me much joy. I'm amazed at how she can capture fleeting instants of emotion on camera. Please visit her websites: <a href="http://www.shakemyday.com/">http://www.shakemyday.com/</a> ; <a href="http://www.weclick.net/">http://www.weclick.net/</a> . </span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I hate to say I have been fighting a little bit of a funk lately. With the exception of every time I look at my daughter I have had a mild case of sadness for about a month. I know it's not post-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">partum</span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">depression</span>, but I don't know if it's my hormones still adjusting from the birth of my daughter six months ago, or the economy, or my hair falling out, or my (much too much) disappointment in myself for not having my body where I want it to be. I've had a hard time adjusting to Veronica's schedule. I was fully ready to give up my life as I knew it but I had no idea what was in store for me until this little girl graced my life.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">I know the old expression, people come into your life for a reason may be old and overplayed, but I know booking Sarah to capture my pregnancy and the joy of my miracle child on film was one of the best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">decisions</span> I made this past year. We met yesterday for Veronica's six month photo shoot. I was in my mild funk, and mad at myself for leaving a time-toiled wreath made specifically for the shoot in the car, which had been driven away by the valet at the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">parking</span> garage. Good conversation, good people, and a nurturing atmosphere for even one afternoon can make all the difference. Sarah was very kind, patient and reassuring, and my little girl was an angel, even when she was fussy it didn't last long. She rolled and slept, smiled and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">creeped</span></span>, grabbed my face and her toes and was a true champ. Sarah's creativity and amazing work with staging and lighting made me feel inspired for the first time in a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">looooong</span></span> time. I am gleefully awaiting a peek at the pictures. I know Sarah will have done an incedible job. I also brought some silks to the studio in case she would want to use them in the pictures. Her encouragement at new techniques I am working on to set myself apart from other silk artists in my genre started to light the fire under my pot of dye.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">normally</span> feel aggravated when I want to work and frustrated because I don't have enough time between baby naps to get anything done. I can't leave work instantly at a crucial moment to respond to a crying baby. Knowing my daughter is my biggest priority I of course give up on work. Well, I'm starting to get the hang of this mom thing lately, and feeling really good about it. I realized I'm getting my groove back. </span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></em><br /><em>Today I dyed four AMAZING veils. I feel inspired. It's a great start :)</em>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-75524831327173902312009-01-06T00:39:00.006-05:002009-01-06T00:50:34.611-05:00Truly touched by the belly dance community<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SWLvrGd0q_I/AAAAAAAAABc/IjNuW4-v2jo/s1600-h/_DSC0018+Web.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288052436235496434" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SWLvrGd0q_I/AAAAAAAAABc/IjNuW4-v2jo/s200/_DSC0018+Web.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The two beautiful ladies to the left are Chadia and Joharra, photo by Alan Tansky.</span></em><br /><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This year was an amazing, crazy ride. Between starting my business and becoming a mom I have been busier and happier than I have ever been. Watching my veils dance with all the beautiful people in the belly dance community and sharing my art is reward enough for me, to be recognized by the you truly is the sprinkles on the cherry on the icing of the cake! I have plans to expand my line of products in 2009 and this is truly the impetus to go forward. I have the honor of sharing the title of "Voted Great in 2008" with fellow artists: </span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Favorite Instructor: Kim Leary </span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Favorite Performers: Anka Kusu </span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Favorite Promoter: Michelle Devine </span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Favorite Restaurant: Cous Cous of NJ </span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Favorite Musician: Carmine Guida </span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Community Spirit...Pom-Pom winner: Anne Marie </span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Please check out the NJ Bellydancing website - it is an invaluable resource for dancers, events, vendors, and information on belly dance in NJ and surrounding areas. Thank you to Anne Marie and Cerisa for all the work on this OUTSTANDING website! <a href="http://www.njbellydancing.org/">http://www.njbellydancing.org/</a></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy, Prosperous New Year filled with music and dance! (And lots of silk veils hee hee!)</span></em> </div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-48361751913284004642009-01-04T23:44:00.007-05:002009-01-15T02:32:00.046-05:00Work Schedule<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SWGT7OM746I/AAAAAAAAABU/TE6zZmJs_TE/s1600-h/DSC07366.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287670083143590818" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SWGT7OM746I/AAAAAAAAABU/TE6zZmJs_TE/s200/DSC07366.JPG" border="0" /></a> 7:50 am - wake hit snooze<br />7:55 am - wake hit snooze<br />8:00 am - maybe get up - maybe hit snooze<br />8:05 - 8:10 am - get bottle ready<br />8:15 - wake baby<br />8:16 - change crying baby<br />8:20 - feed baby<br />8:45 - 9:00 am put sleepy full happy baby back to bed<br />9:00 am - have industrial strength coffee and try to fit 8 hours of dyeing, sewing, emailing, website updating, blogging, photography, cleaning the house (yeah right), laundry, shower, don't bother to do hair just put up in a knot with a clip into 3 hours<br /><br />OR<br /><br /><br />9 am - noon - go back to bed (most likely)<br />12 noon - wake happy giggly baby, change baby<br />12:15 pm - feed baby<br />12:45 - 2 pm - play with baby until tired (baby that is - mom being tired is a given)<br />2:00 - baby nap - try to get some work done<br />2:20 - baby wakes, change baby diaper, play with baby, try to update website while baby is in exersaucer, pick up baby who wants mommy, walk around house soothing teething baby, desperate to get housework done put fussy baby in sling and work while carrying baby. Curse self for going back to bed after morning feeding.<br />3:45 - get bottle ready<br />4:00 - feed baby<br />4:45 - 8:00 (see schedule from 12 noon to 4 pm, repeat)<br />8:45 - MAYBE baby nap<br />9:15 - baby wakes, change diaper, occupy baby<br />10:30 - get bath ready<br />10:45 - give baby bath<br />11:00 - feed baby<br />11:45 - put baby in crib, if lucky she goes to bed<br />11:45 - ridiculous time at night try to get things done while baby sleeps<br />Some ridiculous time at night until 7:50 am - pass out<br /><p>ALL NIGHT - thank the Lord in Heaven she sleeps through the night</p>Best job in the world!SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-49749491167363529802009-01-02T01:15:00.009-05:002009-01-06T00:48:47.398-05:00Happy New Year! SQUUUUUUUUUUUUEEEEEEEEEEEEE!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SV6bjthNt8I/AAAAAAAAABM/xpdlWXT7wVE/s1600-h/DSC05786.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286834050396174274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 229px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 179px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SV6bjthNt8I/AAAAAAAAABM/xpdlWXT7wVE/s320/DSC05786.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lots of happy noises in the land of Silkdancer today. I got home to an email from NJ Bellydancing (amazing website BTW - <a href="http://www.njbellydancing.org/">http://www.njbellydancing.org/</a> ) that I was voted NJ favorite vendor of 2008. I was so honored! Thank you to all who voted. Please check out the NJ Bellydancing website - it is an invaluable resource for dancers, events, vendors, and information on belly dance in NJ and surrounding areas. </span></em></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9000707021337292625.post-23909795368154524962008-12-29T20:45:00.001-05:002009-01-02T18:36:06.114-05:00Creative History<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SVmpq2y1jVI/AAAAAAAAAAM/VYYC2r0c35k/s1600-h/DSC05659.JPG"><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285442191424326994" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 159px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Nvpe2ULOh5I/SVmpq2y1jVI/AAAAAAAAAAM/VYYC2r0c35k/s320/DSC05659.JPG" border="0" /></span></em></a><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span></em><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I cannot remember a time I didn't create. It seems almost instinctual to me to express myself artistically. This is due entirely to my parents. My beautiful mother always had my mind and hands involved in some project and craft. She took on new challenges headfirst and worked them until she mastered them. From her I learned to sew, to do needlepoint, embroidery, make all kinds of beautiful baskets from many types of fibers and grasses, to work a loom, to explore and create. What she could not teach me she took me to lessons. I took music, drawing, painting and dance. She got me involved in community theater.</span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My parents were avid gardeners as well and half our backyard was a garden. From this I learned the joy and patience of watching hard work flourish and bloom., as well as the satisfaction of reaping the rewards of hard work. I also learned about setbacks, like watching the promise of a bountiful crop decimated by tomato hornworms when we had never seen such an insect in the history of the garden.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My father is an engineer, a builder, a problem solver. Whereas my mother would dive unafraid head first into a project, he would think, measure, draw charts, calculate and plan. I felt growing up that he could fix, build or solve anything. His way of looking for and finding the best solution to a problem was a huge influence on my creative thought process. He showed me a way of looking at things from all angles and how the smallest details were as important as the overall project. It was a waste of time to create something that was makeshift, unattractive and did not last. The quality of the work you did was equally important as getting the job done.I continued to study art in college. First illustration, then metalsmithing. I had an unofficial minor in fiber arts, taking classes in weaving and batik. It was here I first dyed silk. Though I went on to work as a jeweler after college, my love of color never weakened.Then it happened - I took my first belly dance class as a way of getting some fun exercise. I was immediately in love. It was the only form of dance I had ever experienced where I felt I could immerse myself in all the way. Here was a medium where I could express myself physically, emotionally and creatively while showering myself in glittering color.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I am enchanted with silk. It seems to have a life of its own, embracing the dancer as she moves. In this way it becomes an integral part of her and the music. To me this is the perfect medium, a living canvas so to speak. I strive to share and express myself creatively while producing a quality product that will be cherished for years to come. I am further pleased to watch my work in the hands of other artists and sharing in their own expression of creativity.</span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I have since expanded from dance silks to scarves, pants, other apparel for everyone. It is a continuing journey, I can't wait to see where I end up!</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></em></div><div><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Be Happy ~ Dance ~ Enjoy!</span></em></div>SilkDancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16497136422298611576noreply@blogger.com0