“My goal is to bring the beauty of plants, trees and other natural places to my artwork so that I can share that with others. My hope is that my art might help another person connect with the natural world so that he or she can appreciate the beauty that surrounds us every day. I use a variety of techniques and media to bring my work to life!” ~Angie Spears
I tend become fascinated with mediums that I know nothing about; art forms that there is just no way I’ll ever try, just admire. Leisa McCord’s artwork absolutely falls into that category and has fascinated me from the first time I heard from her five years ago.
Leisa is a lifelong crocheter.
Miniature thread crochet to be more specific. The kind that would require you to wear fancy magnifying eyewear. I can’t say whether or not Leisa looks like a mad scientist when she’s crocheting or not, but the end results are amazing and beautiful.
Leisa’s inspiration comes from the thread manufactures patterns of the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s. Which also makes her a preservationist. Leisa reproduces these patterns on a miniature and creates her own designs. The scale is so small, that she makes her own tools. Leisa also dyes her silk threads to her liking too. Her finished pieces are “framed” in sterling silver and ready to wear as earrings and pendants.
Leisa celebrates her 5th anniversary with us at the market Saturday, and she tells me this was her first show to attend. I asked if there anything significant that happened to her as a result of participating at the market.
“This was definitely my jumping off point! I’ve become much more involved in the art scene. I have jewelry in galleries now. I’ve been in big shows. I’ve learned lots about presentation, infrastructure, booth shots, payments systems, you name it.”
Leisa has another passion that she’s bringing to the market on Saturday too. Music! Leisa and her friends are celebrating 20 years with an a cappella group called the Lager Rhythms. Leisa is a soprano! They perform at lunchtime – and you can visit Leisa’s booth behind the music tent. Read more about the Lager Rhythms on the website, here. Leisa can be reached at leisa@mccordworks.com and http://mccordworks.com
More about the Lager Rhythms is on our website here: https://www.firstsaturdayartsmarket.com/Music/LagerRhythms
Friday on any road in Houston is bound to keep you tuned to your radio as you creep along, bumper watching for hours. So at lunchtime today I left in a panic to get to Jerry’s Artarama, which is conveniently located off 249 and 1960, about 30 minutes to an hour away from my Heights home. I just needed a few art things.
Well that trip turned into an all day adventure! First, artist Linda Hardy is shopping near by and overhear’s me asking for directions and calls me out for leaving the Heights. Yes its true! On occasion I must travel outside my precious loop, okay? The fella that helped me turns back around and introduces himself, the assistant manager, Daniel Elliott – we’re Facebook friends too. Wow! Nice to meet you Daniel Elliott. (Daniel is an excellent artist by the way.)
I know an opportunity when it slaps me in the face (that would be a proverbial slap by Linda). See Linda has been promoting her studio complex where she creates her art since she moved in about a year ago. I’ve never been, and I know its gotta be close – so off we go, and thankfully Linda steers me through for a sandwich on the way. Yeah Linda!
The Purple Elephant Gallery and Iron Butterfly Studio is in the heart of Cypress, and it appears as we
pulled in the drive, that the whole street is part of The Purple Elephant. The gift shop on the corner sports a massive colorful sculpture of a sneaker on the corner. And just a few properties passed the “Hula” barn are the studios where Linda is. As you can see above – its quite a big “little” compound. Patio chairs and tables, creativity just oozes from every corner. The majority of the studios are stand alone buildings with a common area in what was once a house. The house doubles as more studios (2) and classroom space.
There’s even an animal pen! With goats, a sheep and pig. The pig is Picasso by the way, on the left. No, I did not feed anyone, but Picasso did get a scratch behind the ear.
As we are about to leave, artist Sergio Santos arrives. Goodbye Linda, hello Sergio! Sergio has a space down the street a bit, still on the property though. Sergio has a bit more space in this former one bedroom home. Really cool! He’s got the room to create, and display his paintings and award winning photography for the monthly open studios.
Quite an unexpected treat today! I am getting my wish to visit working artist’s studios that is for sure. I’m still finding similarities in studios no matter what kind of artist. Inspirational phrases, quotes and “things.”
I’m inspired again and ready to paint! And looking forward to my next visit to The Purple Elephant Studios!
Jerry’s Artarama is an awesome art store, and as I told Daniel, totally worth the drive to 12974-A Willowchase Dr., Houston, Texas 77070. They do deliver in Houston, however! Oh yeah! Like them on Facebook here or visit the website here.
The Purple Elephant Gallery and Iron Butterfly Studio on Facebook here. The artists host open studios on 2nd Saturdays from 5-9pm
Linda Hardy and Sergio Santos both attend the art market regularly.
They’re websites are linked on their art market pages here: Linda – Sergio
Mitch Cohen is the founder of First Saturday Arts Market. He also writes an art/event column for The Leader Newspaper. Check it out sometime here.
Adriana started attending the market in 2008 and it was her first time showing at a public venue.
Has your art changed since first attending First Saturday Arts Market How has your art changed?
My interaction with patrons and other artists helped me to create art that people are attracted to. As an artist I want to be free to create whatever I want but it’s also important for me that my art touches people. When I use to sell online I didn’t have that feedback that now I have thanks to be able to see people face to face
Is there anything significant that happened to you as a result of participating at the market?
Yes, as a result of my presence at First Saturday Arts Market I made connections and new collectors that allowed me to be able to be a full time artist. Today I am able to participate in all kinds of art shows, markets and festivals. Without First Saturday Arts Market I don’t think I would be in the place I am now.
I remember when …
My first art market wasn’t even in the market, It was outside. The market was full but Mitch was so nice to let me set up my booth outside a store. I wasn’t feeling very confident as an artist and I was afraid of rejection but the patrons were so nice to me and Mitch came to reassure that I was good. That day I sold almost everything I had and a store asked me to sell my paintings in their place. It was a dream come true.
Where are you now?
I keep selling art. I attend First Saturday Arts Market and White Linen Night at least 3 times a year and I am participating in different venues like gallery shows, festivals and art markets.
What would you tell the public about the market?
I have been in many other shows and the quality of work at First Saturday Arts Market is great. Here you are not going to find imports and mass made products. Everyone is an artist and many of our artist participate in high ranked shows that attract artist nationwide as The Bayou City Art Festival, WHAM, Waterway aArt Festival, Houston Fine Art Festival and many other juried shows.
How about to artists considering?
I would like to encourage artists to apply for many reasons. The knowledge you will get by just being able to be with clients face to face is enormous. The patrons are friendly and very encouraging. The artists at First Saturday Arts Market are very friendly and helpful. You will find a good family here.
Always try to help others, is the best way to be successful in this business.
https://www.firstsaturdayartsmarket.com/Yalest/AdrianaWhitney
A Before and After look at Adriana’s booth setup:
First Saturday Arts Market will celebrate 10 years in March of 2014, making it the longest, continuously running monthly outdoor fine arts event in Houston. I asked the artists how the market has affected them, their artwork, friendships and what advice they may give artists considering outdoor shows like ours. I’ll share some of the responses on our blog from both new and seasoned artists leading up to our anniversay.
Running this show has changed my life. And watching how it has changed and affected the lives of others has been an awesome experience. If you have something you’d like to share, please email me at here. (1stSatArtMarket at Gmail com)
Just scroll down past this post to begin reading! (or click the banner above first if nothing is below)
Thank you Houston!
Mitch Cohen
Founder/Market Guy at First Saturday Arts Market
Amanda Armistead Pechacek
I am a multimedia artist focusing on the formal aspects of Art–line variation, texture, rhythm, color, space, etc. My original drawings, watercolor paintings, and other elements are encased within layers of mixed-mediums. The nature of the mediums dictate the compositions and ensure that no two are alike. They are created on custom made wood panels which eliminates the need for framing. www.amandaarmistead.com 281-796-7445
Kingwood, Texas
Mixed media painting * Joined the market in 2011
How has your art changed since joining First Saturday Arts Market?
When I started in May 2011 my sales were average. Now, in 2013, my sales have hit over 7 times what I made per market. Seasoned artists have been an example for me to follow.
About how often do you attend the market and how would you rate your level of experience now?
3-5 times a year Seasoned
Is there anything significant that happened to you as a result of participating at the market?
My art has developed. I have become more confident. I am setting higher goals for myself.
In May of 2011, First Saturday Arts Market became a Birthplace and Public Grand Opening for both me and my art. Each time I participate I observe a fascinating mixture of both novice and seasoned artists creating an appealing atmosphere for patrons. The 10 year success of the monthly outdoor fine arts event proves that something great is happening…both for the participation artists and the public who can’t seem to get enough.
Do you have any advice for new artists?
Watch, listen, learn, take notes, apply, ask Mitch, ask your tent neighbor, engage your patron, smile, return, and you will love it!!
FSAM – learn more about Amanda on our website: https://www.firstsaturdayartsmarket.com/Yalest/AmandaArmistead
Christopher Perkins
Cypress Fairbanks
Painter, joined in 2013
As a first time artist showing at outdoor events, what has First Saturday Arts Market done for you?
I feel I have been enhanced by my experience at First Saturday Arts Market. I think just being in an artistic atmosphere generates so much creative energy that one can’t help but to exemplify it.
Is there anything significant that happened to you as a result of participating at the market?
Yes, I met some awesome people including those in the art community and art lovers. I also sold nearly all of my paintings! I’ve been painting in between my daughters nap-time preparing for 2014 and I’m looking at next year with so much optimism and excitement.
I remember when …
My first experience that I will never forget….as I was assembling my tent, my tent bag acquired some legs and “walked off”. Come to find out a fellow patron mistakingly thought it was his. Another moment…I was so nervous and excited for the 2013 White Linen Night that I forgot my tent all together! Luckily Mitch came to my rescue. All my items are labeled and I will pack everything up the day before from now on.
What would you say to aspiring artists sitting on the fence?
I would say to give it a shot if you are giving the opportunity. I think your attitude goes a long way with sales. I had a couple visit my tent 3 times before they purchased a painting. Everytime they came I smiled, talked to them and interacted with them…be positive, but not too invasive, it goes a long way.
What have you been doing since your last show at First Saturday Arts Market?
I’ve been doing commissioned work since the White Linen Night, it’s been great!
More about Chris on our website: https://www.firstsaturdayartsmarket.com/Yalest/ChrisPerkins
Monique Weston
Houston, TX
Art Jeweler – repurposed materials. First attended the market in 2009
How has your art changed since first attending First Saturday Arts Market
I’ve gained a lot more confidence in my art, and my pieces reflect that; they’re more interesting, daring and original.
What makes the experience at the market different?
First Saturday Arts Market gives me the invaluable experience of seeing first-hand how people react to my artwork. They’ll be strolling by the booth and I’ll see their attention sharpen and focus on a particular piece. In the way they touch my work, I can see which pieces have the right balance. I get to see which pieces garner the most attention, and hear patrons’ comments. I also get to see my jewelry on a lot of different people, mixing with their individual styles. While I love selling in boutiques as well, being a vendor shapes my work directly, in a way no other outlet can.
Is there anything significant that happened to you as a result of participating at the market?
I’ve met a lot of great clients, and was invited to show in several galleries by people I wouldn’t have met anywhere else. I’ve also met such wonderful fellow-vendors, people I look forward to seeing every time I go.
I remember when …
I guess it’s clear that I love vending. I love joining in this ancient, pure form of commerce – creator to consumer.
The atmosphere at First Saturday Arts Market reflects an openness that is one of the best qualities that Houston has to offer. There’s bonhomie among the vendors – I love hearing a shout of laughter from another tent, seeing a borrowed roll of duct-tape passed back and forth, hearing comments on booths and artwork, observing the commonality of setting up and breaking down tents. I’m not romanticizing these little details into a great bond among the artists, but there’s a camaraderie at First Saturday Arts Market which, while mainly casual, is truly valuable nonetheless.
Among the patrons, there seems to be a sensibility of more than just shopping, but also of supporting the local arts.
You mentioned you show your jewelry elsewhere, where can we find it?
When I’m not at First Saturday Arts Market, I’m selling in Houston boutiques. At the moment, I’m in Artisan Designs in Rice Village, and at Hello-Lucky in the Heights.
More about Monique on our website: MoniqueWeston
Serving street tacos, quesadillas, tortas, and more, authentic Latin street food for Houston!
iUn poquito de lo nuestro con sabor!
Greetings! With great honor I accepted an invitation to write a column about art in The Leader Newspaper. Naturally, I’ll be covering what I know best … the independent art scene!
The first column is all about art markets that now occur on each first Saturday of the month. Each are different and offer patrons a unique twist. Read all about it!
Week 1 : Mitch Cohen: Beyond the galleries, Houston outdoor art venues thrive
Week 2: Mitch Cohen’s Art a la Carte: Of Mad Hatters, guitars & an anniversary
Week 3: Art a la Carte: Exhibits bloom in advance of spring
Cheers!
Mitch
Artist AT LARGE
Market Manager Guy
& Newspaper columnist type person.
