Tuesday, September 11, 2012

ArtBeat - Sep. 07th, 2012

Once again we are having some fun at the ArtBeat. This past Friday we started the Fall Season with the amazing performance of Casey Abrams from American Idol Season 10! The pre-show was in the hands of Just Alliance, a great loop artist.




This week we are featuring two great craft artists. Both of them are new to the ArtBeat and we are so happy they joined our team of vendors!

The first one is Carm Gargiulo from Crooked Crystal. She is a great jewelry maker. Here is what she said.
Tell us a bit about yourself
Chicago native, retired Human Resource Manager. Moved to Las Vegas in 2006. Married. Have a 27 year old daughter and two dogs.
What do you make? 
Jewelry
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
Work part time, take care of my mom and husband. I travel back to Chicago to see my daughter as much as possible.
Where does your inspiration comes from?
From somewhere deep inside. I start out doing one thing and ends up completely different.
What does handmade means to you?
Made with care and thought. Made by someone who maybe relays on handmade for their sole income. Creative.




The next featured craft artist is Melanie Rowe. She makes amazing comic art. And here is what she told us about her.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am stay at home mom of two boys. My hobby of creating handmade items has turned into a great part time job and has enabled me to be able to stay home.
What do you make? 
I make custom comic book letters and comic gifts. Each item is custom made for the customer.
{Check out her store http://www.etsy.com/shop/melrowe}
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I love to spend time with my kids, volunteer in their classes and occasionally get some free time to spend with my husband.
Where does your inspiration comes from?
My inspiration for crafting has come from my mom. She is now my partner and sells her creations in my shop. My inspiration for comic book items has been from my husband, who is a comic collector and full of knowledge about comics, characters, etc.
What does handmade means to you?
Handmade means a lot to me. When supporting a handmade artist, you are supporting people and families, not corporations. While getting unique, artistic items.
Who has been most influential in your crafts?
My husband has always supported my crafting and never complained about me spending money on things that I have made! My boys always love my creations and I love that they are proud of what my business has become.




I know after checking out their shops you will want to go to the next ArtBeat on Sep. 28th and check out their items in person. You will love them!

Here are some more pics I want to share with you from the event.


















We hope to see you there! Invite your friends and family and come to enjoy your Friday night with us. Admission is FREE!