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Painted Paper Collage by Daniel Heron

"Dwellings," 48" x 32" Painted Paper Collage, $1,600

"Checkered Animal," 31" x 34" Painted Paper Collage, $1,050

"Faithful Wounds," 9.5" x 12.5" Painted Paper Collage, $200

"The Visitation," 9.5" x 12.5" Painted Paper Collage, $200

"Tulum," 20.5" x 30.5" Painted Paper Collage, $600

"RedRabbit," 24" x 36" Painted Paper Collage, $900

"Saddle Blanket," 20.5" x 31.5" Painted Paper Collage, $640

"Smoke Dancing," 24.5" x 42.5" Painted Paper Collage, $1,000

Coming November/ December 2012
The Proverbial Art Show: Painted Paper Collage by Daniel Heron
Meet the Artist Reception: Saturday, November 10th from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Daniel Heron was born in Detroit in 1948 to Millard and Estelle. His father was a Baptist minister, who along with his mother, gave him a strong foundation for life. His mom fostered his early interest in art by providing him with painting and drawing lessons.

The artist's work is inspired by early native American arts in all of its forms —- the colorful geometrics of the Great Plains tribes' bead work, the Navajo' weavings, the Mimbres' pottery, the designs and motifs painted on teepees -- horses, weapons, faces; and the mysterious rock paintings found all over the American West. He draws from these earthy primitive colors, textures, designs and stylized figures and combines these elements to create new abstract forms. He has also been influenced by the abstract expressionists.

Heron began marketing his paintings in 1997 when Billy Hoxie, then owner of Watermelon Sugar Gallery in Traverse City, Michigan, first accepted his work. About a year later, the artist met Joe DeLuca. Joe is well-known throughout the Midwest for his abstract paintings and is a retired art professor from Western Michigan University. His advice and mentoring have greatly shaped Heron's work.

See the above eight paintings at Gallery Fifty now or call for more information: 231-932-0775.

Time, Space and Matter: Paintings by Amy Kerr Hardin

Turtles, All the Way Down
Oil on Canvas, 16" x 40", $1,000

Microcosm
Oil on Canvas with Mixed Media, 24" x 24", $700

Orrery
Oil on Canvas, 48" x 48", $1,500

Apeiron
Oil on Canvas, 36" x 48", $1,400

Musica Universalis
Oil on Canvas, 48" x 36", $1,400

Arts and Letters
Oil on Canvas, 24" x 48", $1,200

Paper Chase
Oil on Canvas, 30" x 24", $1,000

Coriolis
Oil on Canvas, 40" x 30", $1,200

Brother-Sister
Oil on Canvas, 36" x 24", $1,000

Mother-Daughter
Oil on Canvas, 36" x 24", $1,000

Father-Son
Oil on Canvas, 30" x 24", $900

Amy Kerr Hardin has been an oil painter for four decades ever since she discovered painting at the age of twelve. At about the same time she entered junior high school and took a science class titled “Time, Space, and Matter”. Here she gained a lifelong fascination with the physical universe - - those properties known and those of theory became Amy’s area of interest.

This collection titled “Time, Space, and Matter” is an homage to that long-ago science class which inspired that nascent artist with an inquisitive mind.

Mythology, fantasy, and the world of dreams is woven into these works. Amy also took inspiration from the study of the human mind’s perception of the universe. Bilateralisation, also known as “left-brain/right-brain” plays an important role in this collection. Each piece stimulates both the linear left hemisphere and the holistic right hemisphere. These paintings represent both our inner and outer universes.

Amy’s style is bold and meant to be attention-grabbing. They are not intended to be the docile companions of beige sofas. Her works have been purchased regionally, nationally and internationally by collectors with an eye for her bold style and confident hand.

Amy maintains a busy studio overlooking the beautiful woods of Williamsburg, Michigan. Each season brings new light and new inspiration to her and her work.

The show will be up through September 6, 2011. Please contact Gallery Fifty at 231-932-0775 to inquire about Amy's work.

James Blanchard's "Fordite" Jewelry

Fordite (or “Detroit Agate”) was taken in its raw form from the spray booth at the Ford River Rouge plant in the 1970s. Chunks of layered automotive paint were painstakingly scraped from the conveyor, then cut and polished into gems. Patterns emerge from the Fordite depending on the angle of the cut or depth of the polishing. Since technology has replaced the spray booth, Fordite is becoming increasingly rare and valuable.

Is that a... ring!?

James Blanchard makes jewelry because it feels good. Each tiny sculpture he creates inspires him to make another. Working primarily in sterling silver, clean lines are formed using simple geometry and balance. He considers his approach to be “contemporary.”

Typically, his pieces are constructed using bright metal and a gemstone as the focal point. Lately, he’s been experimenting with Fordite cabochons set in oxidized sterling settings that have been filed to create a distressed finish.

Because he didn’t go to art school, he considers himself an artist of his own making. James rarely works from sketches, relying on an uncanny ability to transmit designs directly from his brain to his hands. His hope is that the work stimulates the senses and evokes questions.

James shows at about 5 art fairs annually and is represented exclusively through Gallery Fifty in his hometown of Traverse City, Michigan.

Fordite Cuff Bracelet

These cuffs bracelets are crafted out of sterling silver and can be adjusted to fit most any wrist. $195. Please call Gallery Fifty at 231-932-0775 to order.

Fordite Mini Rings

Rings are priced (left to right): $135, $125 and $135. All rings are sterling silver and can be sized free of charge. Please call Gallery Fifty at 231-932-0775 to order.

Misc. Fordite Rings

Rings are priced (top row left to right): $145 and $155 (This is a square band and tough to size); (bottom row left to right): $135, $155 and $145. All rings are sterling silver and can be sized free of charge. Please call Gallery Fifty at 231-932-0775 to order.

Felted Art Scarves by Svitlana

Fish Net Felted Art Scarf
This adorable very light weight and very strong felted scarf is a new original design. It features Cobalt Blue, Orange, Dark Brown and Light Green handpainted Merino wool. This beautiful scarf looks great with any outfit from a t-shirt and jeans to a favorite dress or pullover. The scarf measures approx. 60 Inches (152 cm) in length and the width is approx. 9 Inches (23 cm ). This unique handmade item can be a fantastic gift for you or the person you love. $125


Femininity Nuno Felted Scarf/ Neckwarmer
This delicate neckwarmer was created by the traditional Nuno felting technique. A very unusual combination of three shades of 100% Merino soft wool were used— Sky Blue, Sage and Blue and the scarf was embellished with a gorgeous Blue Rose lace and a lovely button in a shape of the heart. This item is very complicated because it has two layers which are connected to each other only in the middle part of the neckwarmer. $115

Details-
Material- 100% Merino soft wool
Color- Sky Blue, Sage and Blue
Length- 23.5 Inches ( 60 cm)
Width- 5 Inches ( 13 cm )
well fit for a neck up to 17.5 in (45 cm).
Embellishment - unique Rose lace, button Heart

Liquid Red Nuno Felted Art Scarf
This fantastic scarf is created of hand-painted 100% Merino wool and natural silk as a base with the traditional Nuno felting technique. It has a unique texture thanks to pieces of silk and rayon ribbon. It measures approx. 54" (137 cm) by 8" (20.5 cm) The fringe is approx. from 8" to 15" (20.5 cm to 38 cm). This scarf is warm and soft. $130

Twilight Nuno Felted Art Scarf
This fantastic delicate neckwarmer was created with a traditional Nuno felting technique. A gorgeous combination of two shades of 100% Merino soft wool were used — Mint Green and Orchid Pink. The scarf was embellished with pretty color-coordinated ribbons. It has soft texture and will be a favorite accessory or a great present for the person you love. $100

Details-
Material- 100% Merino soft wool
Color- Mint Green / Pink Berry
Length- 25 Inches ( 64 cm)
Width- 5.5 Inches ( 14 cm )
well fit for a neck up to 16 in (41 cm).
Embellishment - Ribbon.

Insomnia Felted Wool Scarf
This beautiful scarf was made with a traditional wet felting technique. It features a beautiful watercolor like palette of hand painted Merino wool. This original design is pleasantly soft, warm and surprisingly light. I looks great on the body and is easy to style. $120

Details-
Length- 69 Inches (173 cm )
Width- 6.5 Inches (16.5 cm )
Material- Merino wool
Color- from Dusty pink to Grey

Felted Ruffled Art Scarf
This beautiful scarf was made with a traditional wet felting technique. It features the combination of three shades of 100% Merino soft wool (Bitter Chocolate, Cinnamon Red and Ecru/Off White ). Tencel was also used to create a marbled effect. The scarf looks great from both sides. It has elegance and comfort, easy to match and the perfect accent piece to go with your favorite winter or spring coat. It has soft texture and will be a great accessory to wear all season long. The scarf is very warm and very long. $150

Details-
Material- 100% Merino soft wool
Color- Bitter Chocolate, Cinnamon Red and Ecru/Off White
Length- approx. 73 Inches (185cm)
Width -6 Inches (15 cm)

Introducing Ed and Kate Coleman

The Bud Vase Series
Approximately 5" - 7" tall, this is a series of bud vases that is a collaboration between Ed and Kate. Each one is handbuilt. They are great for a single flower of found object — sticks, branches, etc. $36

Large Clique Vases
Approximately 12" tall, shown with the regular size clique vase. Each large clique vase is an original one-of-a-kind. $68

Clique Vases
Approximately 8" tall, each clique vase is unique. They come in a variety of textures, forms and glazes. $38

Clique Mugs
Approximately 5" tall, these mugs are oversized for many uses. They are dishwasher and microwave safe. $38

Tumblers
Approximately 7" tall, these tumblers can be used as drinking glasses or vases. $36

Ed and Kate Coleman's work is a collaboration between two artists, separate people with ideas that merge. They believe that life is more beautiful and more livable when surrounded by things that are made by hand. Their work is created for those who search for this quality in fine crafts and objects. They share this connection with those who own their work.

Each piece is one-of-a-kind and handmade in Swannanoa, North Carolina by Ed and Kate. Because of this, their work is sold in assortments. They will always take special requests for colors, designs, and other specifics, but feel the work is stronger when they are given the freedom to create. Each piece is truly a work of art when it is an original.

For more information or for our current selection, call Gallery Fifty at 231-932-0775.

Introducing Cathy Broski

"I enjoy the story and form that grow together as each piece evolves. Creating a connection to my work for the viewer is important to me."


"Play Ball"
The artist found inspiration for this playful pose from her lovable dog, Porter. The natural coloring of the dog is achieved by applying a glaze then wiping the highlights of the texture to leave behind glaze that has a flashing quality. The dog is affixed to the ball with the aide of a steel rod. The ball is filled with sand to create a stable sculpture.
Dimensions: 13.0in H x 9.0in W x 5.0in D
$500


"House of Poppies"
The artist found inspiration for this playful pose from her lovable dog, Porter. The natural coloring of the dog is achieved by applying a glaze then wiping the highlights of the texture to leave behind glaze that has a flashing quality. Each is fired multiple times and is made from stoneware clay.
Dimensions: 16.5in H x 7.0in W x 7.0in D
$650


"Let's Play!"
The artist found inspiration for this playful pose from her lovable dog, Porter. The natural coloring of the dog is achieved by applying a glaze then wiping the highlights of the texture to leave behind glaze that has a flashing quality. The bird is fired separately and attached with wire.
Dimensions: 6.0in H x 6.0in W x 12.0in D
$300


"Heart in Hand"
Each unique hand made sculpture is carved individually from stoneware clay. The surface is achieved by wiping off the high points to leave the glaze in the carved lines. This evokes a found object feel the artist strives for. The heart is fired separate and attached after firing. Each piece is unique, and will vary slightly from that shown. Hearts symbolize the love felt or given.
Dimensions: 4.0in H x 3.0in W x 4.0in L
$100


"Bird in Hand"
Each unique hand made sculpture is carved individually from stoneware clay. The surface is achieved by wiping off the high points to leave the glaze in the carved lines. This evokes a found object feel the artist strives for. The bird is fired separate and is unattached. Each piece is unique, and will vary slightly from that shown. Birds symbolize our inner voice or spirit.
Dimensions: 4.0in H x 3.0in W x 4.0in L
$100


"Safe Landing"
Each unique hand made sculpture is carved individually from stoneware clay. The surface is achieved by wiping off the high points to leave the glaze in the carved lines. This evokes a found object feel the artist strives for. The birds are fired separately and attached after firing. Each piece is unique, and will vary slightly from that shown. Birds symbolize our inner voice or spirit.
Dimensions: 8.0in H x 3.0in W x 3.0in L
$100

Ceramic artist Cathy Broski's work is steeped in archetypal and personal symbolism. Figures, houses, boats and pottery are all vessels to contain things we hold dear, and sometimes those things we would cast off. Cathy chose these forms to work with because they have several levels of meaning she finds intriguing to explore. She loves found objects, because of their wear and marks of their journeys. This is the feel Cathy tries to achieve on her surfaces by using a layering technique.

Cathy begins each piece on the potters wheel or with slabs. The pieces grow with the application of coils or additional slabs. When each piece is completed, She carves or textures the surface. The base colors of terra sigilattas and slips are applied and fired. Once the first firing is complete, Cathy applies and wipes off a combination of stains and glazes, then fires again to cone 6. This process is repeated until the desired effect is achieved.

Since receiving her BFA from the Kansas City Art Institute in 1990, Cathy has worked in the ceramics field in many capacities. Presently she is represented by numerous galleries, teaches several pottery classes, instructs workshops, sells work at art fairs, and has been published in several ceramic periodicals. In 2000, she and her husband built a studio right outside their backdoor. And in 2007 they completed a 40 cu ft gas car kiln.

For more information, or to see Cathy's work, visit Gallery Fifty at the Grand Traverse Commons or call 231-932-0775.

Carolyn Hudson: Attention to Detail

Carolyn Hudson: Attention to Detail
August 6 - September 30, 2010

Carolyn Hudson draws her inspiration from the local landscape and wildlife and she is best known for her beach stone drawings and dog portraits. She started her career working primarily with graphite, but slowly added colored pencil to her repertoire and has been working strictly with that medium for the past twenty-five years. She has recently added the silver-point drawing to the mix which has the feel of her old roots in graphite. Hudson is a signature member of the Colored Pencil Society of America and received her bachelor of art degree from Waynesburg University.

The public is invited to an opening reception at the Grand Traverse Commons location on Friday, August 6 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.; 231-932-0775. Can't make it to the show? Explore our virtual exhibition at www.galleryfifty.com after the opening.

'Woodchip': Furniture Artist Chip Gadek

30" Glass Top Cocktail Table
Dyed Maple with Wenge Accents
$750

Carnival Foyer Table
31" x 22" x 42" Color Dyed Curly Maple
$1,350

Off-Kilter Mirror
21" x 34" Satinwood and Wenge
$445

Raised in the shadow of New York City and deeply influenced by two older sisters who were highly involved in the arts, Chip Gadek learned at any early age the intoxication of creativity. “When I was a teen, I would play hooky from school and go to all the great New York museums — the Met, the Museum of Modern Art the Guggenhiem — I’d spend the whole day there," he says. "And even now, with 25 years of building high quality furniture, I still consider myself, first and foremost, an artist.”

Gadek's schooling took him to Colorado State University where majoring in Painting gave him absolutely no real world job abilities. After college, he moved to northern Michigan. While working as a graphic artist at a small printing company Gadek was selling two-dimensional work at regional galleries. Slowly, the paintings he was selling evolved into unique mirrors and tables. After 15 years, Chip left his job as a graphic artist to put all of his time into building ‘art furniture.’ Now with more then a thousand pieces under his belt, furniture is still what he wants to create. “I still paint for myself, but I really enjoy making things that can be used on a daily basis,” he says.

The artist now sells work in galleries throughout Michigan, Florida, Arizona and California. This is where he can work on new ideas, creating furnishings that push the envelope. And of course, this is where potential customers that might order special items, can see the beautiful handcrafted work that he offers. “My work is contemporary, but not modern. It has the ability to look good in any surrounding.” Like all fine craftsman, he only uses traditional joinery methods, such a mortise and tenon and dovetails; doing as much of the work as possible, by hand, including layer upon layer of hand-rubbed oil finishes.

For more information on Chip Gadek, or to see some of his incredible art furniture, visit either of our Gallery Fifty locations: 321 East Front Street; 231-946-0610 or 800 Cottageview Drive; 231-932-0775, Traverse City, Michigan.

Here are some examples of the kinds of work that have already sold. Ask about a commission.