Toy Treasures

by Great Joy Studio | Mar 16, 2010 | Treasured Tuesday's

I have never been very good about following routines but I keep trying. Last week I forgot to post a “Tuesday’s Treasure” so, today I’m sharing two. Both were depicted in my most recent fabric line, “Animal Alphabet Games” as shown here on a toy toss in yellow.

Creating this line was an extension of my fondness for vintage toys which I have collected over the years. Few of my own still remain in tact. I like to surround myself with the time worn children’s items especially the non plastic type, as a reminder and a comfort, I suppose. Also to create an inviting and interesting space for my favorite little ones that come to visit.

To see more of this fabric collection – Quilting Treasures

“Bisque dolls were all the rage from the late 1800s to around 1930. These small three inch, all bisque dolls were often referred to as Penny Dolls – About.com.” The original box was the inspiration for the tossed toy layout in the fabric group.

The second is my Humpty man, which I sculpted years ago and who has recently, lost his left shoe. The Pinocchio Puzzle box that he is sitting on was also included in this collection but I’ll  save that for next Tuesday’s Treasure.

The connection between these two items is they were both a part of my crafting venture to create some Old World Santas dolls about twenty years ago. I have one completed, one that was sold (mistake) and four spare heads still waiting for their bodies. Another story to share later.

Tuesday’s Treasure

by Great Joy Studio | Mar 2, 2010 | Treasured Tuesday's

Of all the items that I’ve acquired over my lifetime, I would have to say I treasure my dad’s childrens books the most. I have only a few of his but they’re quite awesome, partly due to sentimental value. However, pouring over the pictures as a tiny tot, I believe these images instilled my desire to create some of my funny characters. The children’s book collection continues to grow and I am often inspired by these vintage illustrations.

Some Old Favorites - the TALL book in the back is where I practiced writing my name

"Tidings & Tales" - fabric collection

Another “Mary”

by Great Joy Studio | Feb 23, 2010 | Treasured Tuesday's

Another work from Mary Sherwood Wright Jones for today’s TT. I was delighted when I saw this illustration and was eager to know who the artist was. I was not familiar with this Mary’s work and could find little information about her. This Home Arts cover from March, 1936 is one of two copies in my collection and the only two pieces I have seen of Ms Jone’s body of work. Note the cost, 10¢. I did find her granddaughter, also a wonderful artist – Le Zebre bleu: Anne Sherwood Pundyk. More about Anne Sherwood Pundyk. If anyone else has additional images or information on Mary Sherwood Wright Jones, I would love to hear from you.

Mary Sherwood Wright Jones

that's "me" on the top right

Second Course

by Great Joy Studio | Feb 16, 2010 | Treasured Tuesday's

Second edition of “Tuesday’s Treasures” (missed last week – satellite outage) is sharing this “self teaching” artist instruction book. One hundred and fifty pages, illustrated that covers tools, materials, colors, processes, principles, tints and a general variety of mediums. Amateur Artist by F. Delamotte, Copyright 1906