Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Where in the World is Nancy Noel May???

Next time you visit the gallery, keep an eye out for Nancy's new baby: "Bebe", the "Art Smart Car". You are going to be seeing alot of Bebe. Check out the car at http://www.artsmartcar.com/ or her blog at http://www.artsmartcar.blogspot.com/

Stay tuned for more information.

"Come Together.. Right Now" Seeking Connection with Beauty.


Web 2.0 tells us that social media is the wave of the future for the internet. What it really boils down to is people will spend hours on sites like twitter, myspace, facefook and youtube to learn more about each other and share their thoughts and feelings. This just tells me that people are hungry for connection. When the world seems so confusing and full of uncertainty, the only thing we can count on is each other.


I can tell you that after more than twenty years in jewelry sales, that it has always been about connections. Spectrum Art & Jewelry is just a method through which I personally choose to connect with an ever widening circle of people. The artists who create for the gallery are making their own statements, but they wouldn't put out the effort if they didn't want someone to receive those messages. The customers who come into the gallery are looking for an opportunity to connect through their appreciation of beautiful craftsmanship and creations.


Social media is a wonderful way to keep up with your friends, but it will never replace the experience of visiting a beautiful place and taking in the energy. Be that the beach, the woods, a museum, a church or an art gallery. The physical action of "being" in a lovely place is more nourishing than food sometimes.


I hope you'll take the time to treat yourself to the uplifting experience of just visiting a beautiful place. Take a break from the desk, the computer, the cell phone or the TV and get out and connect with people and beauty.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Holiday Gift Ideas for Less than $100

You'll love all the marvelous and memorable gift ideas we have at Spectrum Art & Jewelry. They come in all price ranges starting as low as $12. Here are a few suggestions for under $100:


1. Brighten up their home with these lovely glass ornaments by Luke Adams, including starfish, hearts and twists ranging from $33 - $40 each. (see photo)
2. Colorful dichroic glass keychains by Yourkowski Glass for only $15! This is a great way to celebrate someone's new home, car or business.

3. Remind them they are loved with thoughful and provacative jewelry designs by Kathy Bransfield. Each stylish pendant is inscribed with a meaningful quote. Prices range from $55 - $90

4. Luscious silk travel bags keep your jewelry safe and protected for only $12. Great stocking stuffer for all your girlfriends.

5. Dailey Woodworking creates hand turned maple burl and jewel toned acrylic pens. These fine writing instuments are works of art and are a special way to let someone know they have something important to say! $57

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Shop Local ~ Support Your Neighborhood Businesses

The current economic situation affects us all. I just wanted to take a moment to stress that locally owned and operated businesses are the cornerstone of our communities. We are your neighbors and friends. Whenever possible, I encourage you to consider shopping with the small businesses here in Wilmington. Keep your dollars in your community, whenever possible.


Yes, I know Walmart has a big selection and low prices. The department stores offer some great deals too. But if you are reading this newsletter, you've already expressed an interest in creative living. Spectrum Gallery is more than a business, it is a community of artists. More than 100 people draw some portion of their living from our efforts. We support the creative and financial dreams of our artists, our team, our friends and clients.

We are grateful for your continued support and patronage. I am dedicated to thinking outside the box and I believe in mutally rewarding and beneficial relationships with my customers and fellow business owners. If there is anything you feel we need to do to improve or refine our offerings, please let me know.

I plan to be here for the long haul and to do that I need your support. If you aren't looking for anything at this time, refer a friend. Thank you!
Warmest regards,

Star

Saturday, November 22, 2008

The Latest Issue of ViViD is Here!


The Holiday issue of ViViD is now available. Stop by the gallery to pick up your copy or Click Here to see the electronic version. Inside you will find:~ Meet Mark Rosenbaum, glass artist~ Visit with our ViViD Home owners, Lou & Jeanne Crisuolo~ Party tips and recipe from Charlene Dupray of South n'France~ Great gift ideas~ and coupons from our wonderful partners!

Friday, November 21, 2008

The Perfect Hostess or Holiday Secretary Gift!


The holidays are here. I'm sure you all have plans to visit friends or family or host something special yourselves. Don't show up empty handed. Even a bottle of wine or some fresh baked bread is always appreciated. But if you really want to make a wonderful impression, consider something from the new collection we recently acquired from Table Art. This small family business creates handsome pewter serving pieces shaped like leaves, coral, sea shells, sand dollars and sea horses. We've got wonderful napkin rings, bowls, and serving sets. Prices range from $50 - $105 for these incredibly elegant gifts. They all come with a custom presentation box as well.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Holiday Fund Raisers at Spectrum

During November and December, as we further embrace an "attitude of gratitude" we have established connections with three very lovely organizations to help them meet their needs.
Mother Hubbards' Cupboard ~ Food Drive

We have been collecting non perishable food items for this local food bank. As an incentive to our customers and friends we have a raffle for a gorgeous art glass vase by Mark Rosenbaum.

Each donation (per donation, not per item) gets an entry into the drawing. It has been working out to one entry per bag of groceries. We have been delighted to find people coming in with SACKS of food. Good stuff too! We will be continuing this venture through the end of the year, delivering food whenever we amass a quantity. Thanks so much for your participation.

Dreams of Wilmington ~ Holiday Cards




This wonderful organization provides arts education programs for local "at risk" children. They are trained in theatre, music, dance and art in a variety of after school programs. The teachers are all volunteers, mainly local artists. We are offering their holiday greeting cards featuring artwork by kids in the Dreams program. The proceeds of the sale goes to Dreams. I'm especially pleased to hear that a portion goes to each child artist, reinforcing the value of their creativity and self worth. Stop by the gallery to see the selection and purchase your holiday cards.


Brigade Boys & Girls Club ~ Ornament Fund Raiser


This is another terrific local organization looking after our local kids, providing a safe environment for afterschool activities and furthering a wonderful individual mentoring program, pairing up kids with big brothers or sisters. We are selling whimsical hand painted photo ornaments by artist, Carol Roeda, to benefit this organization. Over 50% of the proceeds from the sale of these ornaments will be contributed to the group.
Visit us during our Holiday Open House on December 12th from 6pm - 8pm
to meet the leaders of the Brigade Boys and Girls Club and some of the participating kids.
Our Christmas tree is currently decorated with the ornaments which sell for $19 each.
Supplies are limited so don't wait. These make great holiday gifts.