TishTash tells all...

We survived Frampton...mud and all!!

2008-09-14T13:42:00.001-07:00

It was a nervous week preparing for Frampton as the torrential rain continued. Never good ahead of an outdoor event!! I don't even own a pair of wellies and don't really wish to, so that was a whole other matter! Somehow though we managed to make it to the ground and get through the day with few problems. That said, it wasn't a great day for sales, not even for Steph, whose glassy goodies usually shoot out the door still hot from the kiln. There were plenty of people and we saw a lady with a peach rinse and man in salmon trousers (you can sense how the day went!), but alas, no-one was buying :( Maybe they are not into our contemporary artwork, maybe it's the economy, who knows. It's my third time doing Frampton and my conclusion for the day is....NEVER AGAIN!! Nighty night! x

WooHooo....we have our first Cheltenham event in the diary!!

2008-09-10T05:44:00.000-07:00

My crafty partner in crime Steph, of Handmadeheaven and I have have been talking for ages about shaking up and revolutionising the art and craft market in Cheltenham. You'd think being such an affluent and arty place, that it would be thriving with events, but it really hasn't! If you go a little further afield, to places like Stow on the Wold there is loads going on...but alas not in Cheltenham. We don't want to just organise another naff craft fair, which seem to have got a bad name these days. We want to do something new, exciting and to create an event, as opposed to a place to buy and sell...although of course we want to do plenty of selling!

Steph and I have talked endlessly and we even found a place, but we just hadn't done anything about it....UNTIL NOW!!!

Yes, you read it here first! The first Steph and Tash event branded under our UBOU (that's Unique Boutique for you guys not in the know!) banner, will be taking place at the Royal Oak Pub in Prestbury on Thursday 2nd October. The pub is just on the outskirts of Cheltenham and has a gorgeous pavillion in the garden where they host weddings, comedy nights and other events....and now us!

We're still in talks finalising details, which we willof course share with you soon, but we're so excited and raring to go!!

Another hearty picture heads out the door!

2008-09-10T05:33:00.001-07:00

Since I started painting my little hearty piccies, they just keep flying out of the door and what's even better is that I LOVE painting them...so it's happiness all round! The latest hearty duo I have produced are called "Creamy Olive Hearty Spot Spot" and as you may expect they are in gorgeous shades of olive green, cream, chocolate brown and some metallic gold paint thrown in! I've decided to experiment with some larger format hearty paintings which offer a real statement piece for your home. Check out my website for all the latest paintings which are available for sale in my gallery.

It's been a while...

2008-09-05T13:00:00.000-07:00

Apologies for being a bit of a lapsed bogger for a while. My day job has kinda been taking over and I am still in the midst of some creative block which I can't seem to shift. I am hoping it will be over soon, but a month on I am struggling to pick up my paint brush and get into anything. This said, I have just received another comission for a fun hearty duo in chocolate brown, lime and bronze. I love those colours and would love to do it, just hope I can muster up something and do it.

To try and do something I am making progress on my event organisation. My first night of contemporary arts and crafty with some fun social stuff thrown in is looking likely for the Thus 2nd Oct...hopefully I will have a proper plan to share with you on Monday! It's going to be go go go once I get it booked in, as that really isn't that far away is it?! Hmmmm....

TishTash Tax Return is done...

2008-08-26T13:08:00.000-07:00

The dreaded "Tax return" has been hanging over me quite some time and even though I had until the 31st Jan 2009 if I did it electronically, I wanted to get it off my "to do" list asap. Steph and I agreed to do the end bit of form completion together just to try and make sense of it all. It's done anyway and somewhere in the postal system.....hurrah!!! I'm just keeping all my bits crossed that it's correct first time around and I don't see that form quicker than expected!

Today is the day...

2008-08-25T00:31:00.000-07:00

It's a bank holiday here in the UK, so I have a much needed extra day from work and I can't wait. I've arranged a creative day with Steph from Handmadeheaven and we're going to try and inspire each other with new ideas. The main thing I want to achieve is to make even a little progress with my accessories range, as I have a big mountain of gorgeous bits and nothing to show for it! We're also both hoping to finish off our dreaded tax returns which have been hanging over us for ages....eugh!

Fingers crossed I'll have some photos to show you our days efforts later!!

TishTash gets everywhere these days!!

2008-08-25T00:25:00.000-07:00

You ask most people who have their own business and they'll tell you now and again they like to "google" themselves and see what came up. I hadn't done it in a while, but did the other day and what a shock.....I found myself in The SUN!!!! It looks like they index off Etsy where I have a online shop....oh how funny!!!

TishTash continues to appreciate Handmadeheaven...

2008-08-25T00:22:00.000-07:00

Just look at what has come out of the Handmadeheaven kiln this week. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this picture and am sure it won't last long in her shop. It's just a gorgeous retro blend of colour and you really do just want to eat it. No wonder Steph is keeping it away from me at the moment :)

Handm@de Fair Promotional bags...

2008-08-24T12:12:00.001-07:00

I've told you about the fair I'm doing in Oxford Town Hall on 9th November called Handm@de. Well they've come up with an idea I love of making promotional bags up containing items from the stall holders, as well as business cards/ promotional ideas. They are planning on making up 200, but of course you don't necessarily have to send in 200 items, they will just mix and match bags according to what they get. I was up for sending something in. Canvases aren't really practical, so I'm going to send in some of my original art cards (see above) and some hand painted book marks (when I get around to making some!!). I just need to get making some new cards now to fill up my stock levels!! I have a couple of months thankfully!

TishTash Stationery gets lift off!!

2008-08-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

My creative juices haven't exactly been flowing lately, which has been frustrating when I've wanted to do something. I love nothing more than experimenting and producing new things and a month with no creative output has been strange. However, today I managed to do something....it's only small steps, but I found some therapy in trialing out my new hand painted notebooks. They're drying as we speak and tomorrow I hope to finish off with some lace/ ribbon detail. So far so good. They'd definitely make a nice gift or stocking filler this Christmas. I have big plans for some tishtash hand painted writing paper and envelope sets too. I like to try and keep the art of letter writing alive in this email age and producing new stationery all helps. Pictures of the finished articles and details on how to buy soon!!

Today I am appreciating...

2008-08-18T06:01:00.000-07:00

The work of Emma Bishop who I happened across on www.artgallery.co.uk where I also sell my work. I have a bit of thing about wacky city scapes not being a landscape kinda girl and there is something really simple and appealing about these paintings, coupled with their fab colouring. This one is called "Ambour Harbour" and it's really taken my fancy. However, I am being strong, if I put up many more paintings I will be far from minimalist! No new news for me on www.artgallery.co.uk, things seem a bit quiet, but at least I can get inspired by checking out everything else on there!

Still no creative flare...

2008-08-18T00:33:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure what's going on. I haven't really produced anything in 3 weeks and I'm worried my creative spirit has flown off somewhere. I have bags of gorgeous new materials for my new accessories range and I can kind of see what I want to get to, but somehow I just can't sit down and do it and as any arty type would say, there is no point in forcing these things..... sigh...Maybe I should stop beating myself up!

A Ring Tastic Sunday..

2008-08-18T00:28:00.000-07:00

I've told you on numerous occasions lately how much I love Handmadeheaven's new fused glass rings. I have 4 of my own to prove it! However, as stocks continue to fly out of Steph's shop I agreed to spend Sunday afternoon lending a hand creating plenty more to keep the fans happy! I turned up armed with my latest copy of Vogue and all the new autumn colours (just so we can meet the demands of the fashionista!) and we sat their cheesy movie on in the background glassing away. We agreed to aim for 100, but I think we even went a little over that. Steph totally clocked me when she said I was doing loads in the colours I like....well you have to try don't you! ...guess that all my pals will be getting for christmas this year!!

New Promotional & Supporting Materials for TishTash COMING SOON!

2008-08-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

In the absence of being able to create and produce new TishTash art, I am turning my attentions to sorting my personal admin out and doing things I've been meaning to for a while, like designing and printing new painting labels, postcards and compliment slips. To the left you can see an example of one of my new little lables which goes on the back of my paintings with the name on. I just have to figure out how to print them now and try and make the most of the thousands of Vista Print emails I seem to get each week!! I haven't thought about the other things, but it's time for a change as I've had my original marketing materials 2 years...my how time flies. I'm learning some new design packages at work, so I'm hoping I'll be able to do a lot more work myself rather than having to rely on kind pals all the time. There is a lot to be said for being self sufficient!!

Where has my arty mojo gone?

2008-08-11T13:19:00.000-07:00

I am struggling creatively at the moment. I'm not sure what is going on, but I sat in my studio for about an hour on Sunday and couldn't find the inspiration for anything. I then dumped all my card making materials on the dining table hoping to find the enthusiasm to do something in front of a dvd...no such luck. What is going on?? I really want to create and hopefully get something to show for TishTash accessories....but no such luck right now. I just have to hope it comes back one day soon! In the meanwhile I'm going to embrace catching up on my massive reading list ;)

My gallery is up to date and raring to go!

2008-08-08T00:51:00.001-07:00

After an initial success on www.artgallery.co.uk, I got myself into gear and listed some more of my paintings. I now have 24 canvases for sale on the site and people do seem to be looking as you can see the number of views per painting. However, I fear it may have been a case of beginners luck as there have alas been no more sales. It's good to get out there and try these things and the best thing about this website is that you only have to pay if you sell something, there are no listing fees etc. I shall persist anyway and I like looking at all the other artwork which appears...it inspires me if nothing else!!

All quiet on the tishtash front...

2008-08-07T10:46:00.000-07:00

I know there's been a bit of an absence of TishTash news and views this week and no new artwork to ogle. Other things in life have taken over and whilst the ideas are flowing, not much is going on in the studio. I do have a couple of interesting base coated canvases which I hope to tackle this weekend, but other than that I'm just plodding along seeing what comissions come my way. I have been catching up on admin and my looming tax return, so it's not like I'm being lazy! I've also been trying to sort out some rental business I did with a big FMCG company. I forgot how many paintings they had! I have all this stock I never thought about...maybe I should be worried about that...hmmmm.

Loving more rings!

2008-08-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

More glassy appreciation today as Steph Jones of Handmadeheaven launched more rings into her range. These delights are called "Bubblz" (after a bit of inpiration from moi - glad I can inspire someone today!!) and they are super. I liked them so much I parted with my cash and bought my mum one today, just because and I am also promoting them left right and centre to my pals. Get them fast before they no doubt sell out methinks!

www.folksy.com - The UK etsy??

2008-08-07T10:35:00.001-07:00

Well it had to happen eventually, that someone would make a venture with the UK version of Etsy where you can buy all things handmade. Etsy, is a fab place, for those of you not in the know, it's US based and currently much of the customer base is in the US and so not only does UK art and craftwork look expensive with the exchange rates, but the postage fees are really prohibitive. That said, a lot of people are looking on there and it's good for exposure and I have sold a few bits, so it's worth giving it a go. Now we have Folksy which is the UK based version and it will be interesting to see how this one goes. Steph and I had big plans for something similar, but with busy day jobs and side businesses we just never found the time to take it forward which is a shame as we both felt really passionately about it. For now we will have to see what happens with Folksy. It's still in beta stage which means they are trialling it and testing for errors etc with a limited sales base. However, TishTash shopped was launched on there yesterday and I am happy to give it a go and support something even closer to home.

Rings Rings Rings...

2008-08-06T01:41:00.001-07:00

Today I'm excited and nope it's nothing related to TishTash I'm afraid. Glassy pal Steph has produced a new line of rings and she has created one especially for me. I think I am her guinea pig. Maybe I will have to complete a survey on durability etc? I'm not sure, but I hear it's pink and brown and I know I'll be getting plenty of comments on it already. Who needs a bill board huh!?

Loving the work of Chris Taylor too!!

2008-08-03T13:46:00.001-07:00

I LOVE this painting too! It's by Bolton based artist Chris Taylor and it's called "The Dribble Painting". It's totally up my street and I like his wacky naming too :) He's a man after my own heart!!

Loving the work of Shirley

2008-08-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

Shirley Gorak is a painter and creator of abstract works, living and working in Lancashire. I discovered her work on www.artgallery.co.uk where I am also selling my work. I like her work because it's funky and has plenty of texture and I hope she sells well. I fear this website could be bad for my purse as I keep finding more stuff I like than I sell...he he!!

NEW! Choccy Egg

2008-08-03T13:35:00.000-07:00

After loving my previous choccy egg trio so much I kept it, I have been busily painting up another one. So today I introduce to you "Choccy Egg Stripy Tastic Trio" which is made of 3 canvases of 20 cm x 50 cm x 3.75 cm. I lOVE it again, but of course it would be greedy to keep 2 sets! So, if you'd like to grab your own choccy egg trio you know where it is!!

Drippy withdrawal comes to an end..

2008-08-02T01:22:00.001-07:00

The "drippy" is my signature style you could say. I live in hope tht one day people rave about the TishTash Drippy as a famous artistic style..he he. Not only do they look eye catching and fab on any wall, but they are also really therapeutic to paint, especially after a stressful day in the office. Or maybe that's just me getting high on the turps? Hmmmm... I haven't done any larger size drippys in a while and I realised I was rather short of stock after a few sales and gifts to friends, so I am back in painting mode and this drippy if first off the paint brush! I recently did a commission of colours similar to this and loved it, so I decided to do a similar design in choccy browns and berry pinks. ...and thus "Berry Brown Drippy" was born. It's 60 (h) x 60 (w) x 3.75(d) and is on sale in my shop for £125. However, you can also comission it in whatever colours you'd like. Oooooh, I feel inspired more by more drippys. I haven't done any green or browny shades in a while...

My favourite things...

2008-08-02T01:17:00.000-07:00

I regularly chitter chatter on about my glassy pal Steph and her gorgeous glassy goodies. However, her glass wear really does go straight to the top of my favourite things. She has such a flare for colour and is brimming full of ideas and she's just a top and inspirational person to be around. This rainy Saturday morning I just had to share with you one of her fab lattice bowls which is fresh out of her kiln (and yes methinks it's already sold and off to its new home as most of her stuff flies out of her shop as soon as listed!). It's called "Tropicana" and what a vision of summer fun it is! I am very lucky to have my very own lattice bowl Steph gave me as a pressie, but I'm quite tempted to buy myself another! Steph is also the owner of a very delightful blog (she is even on a website declaring her delightful!) detailing all her news and work in progress so I strongly recommend checking that out too!

Success on www.artgallery.co.uk

2008-07-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

I am always up for finding and trying new places to sell my work. In my experience there are more bad than good however. Recently I happened across a website www.artgallery.co.uk which sells the work of British artists via the web. It's really easy to set up and it's free to list and you only pay a commission on sales. I listed some art work for approval at the end of June and today I had my first sale! It was only a small hearty picture, but it has prompted me to list some more paintings and see how it goes. Long may this continue!! It also has plenty of fab work, so it's definitely worth a browse.

Check out the work of Victoria Brook

2008-07-29T11:10:00.000-07:00

I always like to share with you things that inspire me in my art and well life in general. Today, despite being sick in bed, I fell in love with the work of fellow British Artist Victoria Brook. I found her on a website I sell through and love the gorgeous colours and boldness. I hope to produce things as fab as this myself one day!

Bankrupcy in the haberdashry...

2008-07-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

You wouldn't believe you could spend so much on little oddments of material, ribbon, beads and the like. TishTash Accessories now has some stock after a lunch time shopping spree. Despite being sick, I can hardly contain my excitement at getting home tonight to explore all my goodies. There was just too much choice, that's the problem! Even better is that glassy pal Steph is lending me a glue gun so I can try it out before investing myself. I'm worried already ;) I really hope to have something new and fun to show you soon. I am already lining up models for my samples. I'm just going to go with what I love and would wear and hopefully that means other people will too...Vogue next perhaps??!

TishTash is sick....

2008-07-28T03:41:00.001-07:00

Well I waited what seemed like a lifetime for some sun. Finally it arrives and I go down with a bad throat and cold. I am battling through as have too much going on in the day job and with TishTash to let it get me. However, I'd give anything to be tucked up in bed sleeping it off...sob. Send all your positive vibes my way, I need to get myself out appreciating that sunshine!!

"Made in Oxford" becomes "Handm@de"!

2008-07-28T03:33:00.000-07:00

What's in a name you may ask?? Well in my experience as a marketer and business person, quite a bit. I told you a while back I had signed up to do a show in Oxford Town hall on the 9th November. Well last week they contacted us all crafters to let us know after much thought they have re-named and re-branded the show as Handm@de (http://handmadeoxford.blogspot.com/) which I really like. I also love their logo. It's simple, fun and well describes it all pretty well methinks!

TishTash Accessories??

2008-07-28T00:32:00.000-07:00

One thing you should know about me, I love fashion and have a real passion for clothes and accessories. In an ideal world I'd have become a fashion designer. However, maybe it's not too late to start?? For a long time now I've had some ideas for accessories as unusual and crazy as my paintings, but a) I haven't had the time to experiment and b) I've had a bit of a confidence issue in getting started, especially as my sewing skills are V poor indeed! Last night I couldn't sleep. It was a combination of the heat, the fact my throat is so sore and I can't breathe and ideas flying around in my head. At one point I even got out of bed and sat sifting through my boxes of "bits" for inspiration! I'm planning on involving some paint too as I can't say I have seen that anywhere in the market. I'm hoping this time I really will find some time to get some samples produced. I think this could be fun!

New Homes = empty walls = TishTash delight!

2008-07-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

I have long realised the opportunity around me as I live on a new housing development. Whilst I am lucky to have plenty of artwork to fill my walls, a lot of people don't as art is after all a luxury item. I have talked about doing some kind of marketing to those living on my development, but I have finally got around to sorting something. My plan over the next week is to put one of my postcards with a little note through every door and I hope it may prompt some interest. I am offering a number of deals for these newly moved people (as moving is an expensive thing after all!). They can have 25% off all TishTash stock until October 2008, free delivery of course (no petrol involved here!!) and they can invite me around for a free consultation where I can bring paintings they are interested in to their home to test in spaces and to take a better brief on commission pieces. I am not sure how successful this will be based on the whole economy, but I think the fit is right and it gives me an excuse to walk around and explore my new surroundings more. I hope to recruit Steph of Handmadeheaven to come with me too....I have yet to break that to her!!

Consider my "one thing" complete!

2008-07-25T06:21:00.000-07:00

Consider my Etsy shop updated :) It was a lunch time task undertaken with much precision after printing my latest brochure and website gallery out...cross referencing gallore! My shop is now fully stocked and ready for business..whoohoo. May those American sales roll in..oh and any others! I may have thought of a second task for the week, that's sooooo typical of me! Maybe I can class Saturday as next week and it doesn't count?!

If I only do one thing this week...

2008-07-25T02:00:00.000-07:00

... I need to get my etsy shop all up to date and get all my new paintings listed! I've been a bit rubbish on the etsy front and when I checked it this morning I couldn't believe how many pieces on there I have sold or no longer have. Bad TishTash. It would be sods law that they would be the only pieces to sell and I'd end up madly running around with my paint brush to replicate! I think it may be a Friday lunchtime job, so wish me luck with that :) I need to get thinking of some other new outlets for TishTash too....hmmmm.

Loving "The Batman"!

2008-07-25T01:58:00.000-07:00

It was a lovely sunny evening, so the thought of banishing myself away into a dark air conditioned cinema didn't initially appeal. However, it was well well worth it as the new Batman film "The Dark Knight" is fab! It was quite long, but it was action packed and Christian Bale managed to be less wooden and Heath Ledger shone as expected! If you haven't got it in your diary to see, then definitely do so! ...now on to my equally sociable and relaxing weekend!

Do you like my boat?

2008-07-24T07:42:00.001-07:00

I'm an abstract kinda girl. Rarely will you see any landscape or pet portrait come from my studio. However, I am known to dabble. Check out "The Lonely Boat" which looks perfect in it's crisp white and blue surroundings. I won't be making it a regular thing, but i can take a different approach when needs be...just don't get me on to the topic of windmills, that's a whole other painful tale :)

I am embracing relaxation!

2008-07-24T02:17:00.000-07:00

It's been crazy times of late in my day job and with TishTash. At the best of times I am not great at switching off and relaxing, but I am trying V V hard at the moment, or I am in danger of burning myself out. I don't really feel any better for being a workaholic, so why do it?? So, this week I have been embracing relaxation and am doing a reasonably good job. I've somehow managed to find myself a wii fit, which coupled with my new wii steering wheels and Mario Kart has been providing amusement (I really am not a natural) and we're also going to see the new Batman film tonight "The Dark Knight" which I am super excited about. The first of the new Batman films was a bit stiff, but I am going in open minded, especially after all the rave reviews of the film and in particular of the late Heath Ledger. Throw in a bite to eat at Nandos and I can't wait for this evening....he he. You never know, I may get inspired along the way too!

Have you ever thought about renting art?

2008-07-24T01:02:00.000-07:00

Last year I set up TishTash rentals, offering an affordable way for companies or individuals to have artwork in their surroundings. It's perfect for offices/ companies who maybe can't afford the capital expenditure of owning a lot of art work, or those who like a frequently changing environment. I'd seen a few companies doing something similar, but no-one in the Glos area and I thought it was a great idea. Every rental package is individually tailored depending on frequency of rotation, the number of paintings required and we'll agree something that works for both sides. Ironically since I launched my rental service last year, I have supplied paintings to 2 offices, but they bought their paintings outright! However, my rental business is very much alive and well and if you know anyone who may be interested, then send them my way!!

My new little Minty Hearty Spot Spot...

2008-07-24T00:57:00.001-07:00

You may have noticed that TishTash is a bit heart mad at the moment. They are happy and cheerful to paint and brighten up any wall and they are zooming out of my shop! Long may that continue... My new hearty number is called "Minty Hearty Spot Spot" and it's 50 cm x 20 cm and is great for a thinner wall. It's in shades of mint green, nude and grey with some bronze thrown in. Colours which you probably wouldn't usually throw together, but which go remarkably well. Check out my website for more info and it's £28 including GB delivery. Add a little love into your life ;)

Bye Bye Bellini Blockster..

2008-07-23T00:59:00.000-07:00

I think I spoke too soon. I hadn't even got them on the wall when Bellini Blockster was recalled as Steph sold it. I shouldn't have been so excited as nothing stays long in her shop...boo!

A new minty panel from TishTash...

2008-07-22T12:00:00.001-07:00

After the success of my Choccy Egg Panels (which yes I know I kept them for myself he he), I have been experimenting with some other colour schemes. I am really into mint green at the moment as you'll see with all the new work coming from my direction. This is a solo panel, although there is nothing to say it can't be commissioned into a set of 2, 3 or however many you'd like! It is in minty green shades, choccy brown and bronze and looks stunning. I love the way the bronze glistens in the sunshine (when we have some!!). It's called Choccy Mint Spotty Tastic and you can find it for sale on my website. I am going to try very hard not to keep this one for myself :)

Bellini Blockster on loan!

2008-07-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

My fab friend Steph of Handmadeheaven (which if you haven't checked it out, is a heaven of glassy goodies!!) has loaned me one of her new pieces of artwork as I loved it that much. I am currently looking for the perfect spot for it in my home, I am sure it won't take me that long to find it! I love it's warm funky retro inspired style and I am sure after a few weeks sitting on my wall I will make it a permanent addition to my home - she's a clever business women is that Steph!!!

Purple Silvery Hearty Spot Spot Trio is ready!

2008-07-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

I was so excited about getting to grips with my new hearty commission for a friends new home, and it definitely kept me happy all weekend. I do LOVE purple!! The trio comprises of 3 20cm x 20cm panels in a mixture of acrylic and oil paint and in 2 different designs. They can hang up, down or however you'd like them! They look fab, I hope you agree. My hearty designs come in all colours, so if you don't find something you like get in touch!

I LOVE my butterfly picture!

2008-07-22T11:26:00.000-07:00

I told you about it the other day, but here is my gorgeous new butterfly painting I bought at Cheltenham Art in the Park in the flesh! It's by Cheltenham based artist Kate Wilkins and I love the detail and texture on all of her paintings. I even like her landscapes and I bet you'd never hear those words out of my mouth. I am inspired by her use of enamels etc and so may well do a bit of experimenting with those myself!

Third time lucky? I don't think so!!!

2008-07-21T00:48:00.000-07:00

"Art in the Park" is now over and it couldn't have come soon enough. I literally skipped to the park at 8pm last night to collect my paintings for the last time. I felt like I was starring in groundhog day for half the week, as it just went round and around and around! So, the end result was 8 days and not a single sale. I'm a bit fed up and it's dented my confidence, as it would after so much effort. On the positive, like last year I met some great people, who are also keen to liven up the Cheltenham art scene. I also acquired a new piece of art for my own home from Kate Wilkins who does some of the most fabulous textured paintings I have seen in ages. So yes I am in fact even poorer after a week of Art in the Park...he he he!

Excited about my new hearty commission...

2008-07-18T03:27:00.001-07:00

Recently my hearty paintings have been getting people's interest. To date, I've done mini sets in greens, red/ pinks and neutrals. However, this week I have a new commission in to do a set in purples. I love purples (yes and pink!!), so I am really looking forward to getting into it. That will be a job for the weekend, as long as I can get my hands on the right canvas size! I will do my best to get some pictures on here soon, as it's been a bit of a text heavy blogging week!

I've lost track of what day it is, but still no sales!

2008-07-18T03:22:00.000-07:00

It seems like I have been getting up at the crack of dawn every day since the beginning of time to hang my paintings on railings! It's probably day 5 or 6 and I still haven't sold a thing. Yesterday I had to do my slot of stewarding (it was a little bit chilly!) and whilst I didn't sell anything, I did get some really nice comments from people. Many seemed to think my work was fabric as there was so much texture etc. Whilst sales remain down across the whole show (over 50% now :( ), we did sell quite a few across the afternoon. One of the biggest sellers is well known Cheltenham painter Mike Kingston who paints some lovely beach style pictures. He has a real following and people turn up especially to buy his work. He turned up yesterday afternoon with a new paintings he'd just finished, put it up and within minutes it was gone! I wish some of his magic would rub off on me. I have also fell in love with a butterfly paintings which is only £50, but I think Gary my boyfriend will shoot me if I buy any more artwork for our house!!

A lovely customer endorsement...

2008-07-16T05:37:00.000-07:00

I'm looking to add some functionality into my website where my customers can leave their comments about TishTash to endorse what I do. This is a little way off, but I have started collecting feedback from previous customers to add into it when it's ready and here is the first lovely comments I received from one of my fabulous repeat customers. "I have had two wonderful individual paintings that I left to Tash to design, just advising the Room that they were to go in and an idea of colours.They were absolutely fantastic and all my friends that have visited have commented on them. The one painting that has the gold reflects the sun and as it is setting really lights up the Room.I also have others around my home that are very contemporary and even in an old house with wooden floors and old beams they are definitely extremely well suited.Tash has a unique style that is wacky, funky and complements any home.Thank you for brightening up my home!!!!! " Ah, I feel all warm and fuzzy now...bring on more feedback, especially as spirits are a little low after 3 days and no sales!

Fancy a weekend away?

2008-07-16T02:50:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for new opportunities to showcase my work. One of the nicest things I have been involved in lately, is providing artwork for my friend Gillian's boutique holiday rental cottage Two Chapel Lane in Rutland, the UK's smallest county. Having been to stay at the cottage myself, I can highly recommend it as a gorgeous place, furnished to the highest standards with many thoughtful things throughout (including a massive dvd collection). It's also in a beautiful location perfect for country walks and a really relaxing and romantic weekend. She is really up for supporting local artists and features the work of many other artists too. I fell in love with a big cow picture (you need to see it to believe it, it's fab!), but really couldn't justify the £800! My glassy pal Steph has also got her work in the cottage, including her fabulous coasters. So, if you fancy a lovely weekend away, in some beautiful arty surroundings, then definitely check out the website. Oh and if you have any other ideas about how I can showcase my work, then get in touch as I'd love to hear from you.

At long last a photo from Art in the Park...

2008-07-16T02:41:00.000-07:00

You have heard me muttering on, but finally I have a photo to share with you from Cheltenham Art in the Park 2008. Ok, it's not the most glamorous exhbition as such as ever, but I like its novelty and it draws in the tourists and people walking through and appreciating the beautiful parks in Cheltenham.

For those of you who know me well. I am a bit funny and anal about things being "just right" and so I do get distressed by the fact however hard I try I can't get my paintings to hang straight (note the picture!!). It's hard to explain, but the large grid scheme on the railings is coupled a bit bent and in less than perfect condition, which means it is impossible however hard you try to get them straight. I am just having to deal with it!!

I'm now on Day 4 of 8 and the week is going very slowly. My bad back isn't liking the box carrying and I still haven't sold a thing. I know sales are down 50%, but why couldn't I be in the 50% that do sell?!! Oh and I now have packing up down to 3 minutes....do you think I can better that?? You'll just have to watch and see :)

Day 2 and no sales...

2008-07-15T00:58:00.000-07:00

One of the toughest things I have found as an artist is dealing with the "rejection" of not selling anything. Art is such a personal thing and when you don't get any sales it's hard not to take it personally and think you're not any good. Keeping going, whilst not letting it get you down can be tough. This is definitely how I am finding it this week at Cheltenham Art in the Park, especially with a man next to me selling 3 a day at £300 a piece...sob! I am trying to tell myself we're in difficult financial times and art is a luxury item, but it is hard especially after putting in so much preparation. I battle on and remain optimistic that this week will resort in a sale, without my back giving way from carting my huge box of paintings across the field! The good news is I managed to get my packing up time last night down to 4 minutes!!! Will it be 3 tonight?

Another one bites the dust....

2008-07-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

TishTash is having a storming few days, just not at Cheltenham Art in the Park!! Today, my cute little duo "Greeny Hearty Spot Spot" has zoomed off my shelves and is off to a new home in Wiltshire (so not too far, I may be able to visit!!). I love these new hearty pictures, they are so eye catching and look great on a plain wall. It's funny the people who bought these said hearts aren't there thing at all, but they couldn't resist them! I love 'em! ....oh and I did I tell you they can come in any colour scheme, just in case you don't see one just quite right for your home! Farewell my greeny hearty pair!

Bye Bye my little cityscape...

2008-07-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

Last year I went through a phase of experimentation with my paintings and produced a series of 6 crazy cityscapes. They were bold, in your face and people either loved them or hated them (well not quite hate, but you know what I mean, they weren't really their cup of tea!!).

They all sold across last year apart from one "City Life Pinky Foo Funkster", however today it is heading off to a new home and so I am cityscape less. So, to paint new ones or not that is the question? They were fun and I liked painting them and I do fancy doing one in monochrome and another in neutral shades of browns and creams. Oooooh, so much to do and never enough time!! Oh, and if you'd like your very own cityscape to brighten up a corner of your home, you know where I am!!

Day 2 of hanging my paintings on railings..

2008-07-14T01:29:00.000-07:00

If you're a regular reader of my blog (are there any??), then you' will have heard me wittering on about "Cheltenham Art in the Park" which is subsidised by Cheltenham council and gives artists the chance to hang their work on railings around the Imperial Gardens in the centre of Cheltenham for a week. It's been going on the best part of 30 years and some of the exhibitors have done every year too, thus there is a really good sense of community and spirit there. It's the last week of the 4 this week and it's my turn! I didn't sell anything last year and it is a big commitment having to get up every day before work to hang my paintings and then go back at 8pm to take them down. Especially given our current weather and my bad back :( Fortunately yesterday was glorious sunshine and so there were a lot of people looking and with the Fairford Air Show being cancelled, there were a lot of extra people milling around town too to boost figures even more. I live in hope of selling something this week, but so far I have no news to report. I'm looking forward to my 2 slots of stewarding I have to do this week, as you get to meet plenty of people and it's always exciting selling paintings, even if they aren't your own! So keep everything crossed for me, after a pretty terrible month with one thing or another I could do with some luck x

Let me tell you about Etsy.com...

2008-07-14T01:17:00.000-07:00

Etsy is a real find and it's become one of my fave places for a unique gift or something that little bit different. It's a US based website which sells everything hand made and it has some real treats. Whether you want a piece of art, some gorgeous jewellery, vintage clothing, fabulous glasswork, it has it all.

Etsy gives sellers the chance to set up their shop free of charge and list all their items for sale. It's well targeted and lovely looking with some really interesting features. I set up my TishTash shop just over a year ago and whilst it hasn't made me a milllionaire over night, it has given me a lot more exposure in the US and on average I sell 2 paintings a month and have also received some commissions through the site too. Whilst sales are not booming yet, there are definitely a lot of lookers, as most my paintings have been viewed over 300 times. Ebay eat your heart out!

My good pal Steph of Handmadeheaven really seems to have the Etsy thing nailed as she regularly seems to feature on the front page and on the treasury sections, where people get to choose their favourite selection of items. I really need to work on this!! Maybe a little more networking is needed?

So, if you're a craftsman and fancy a new outlet to sell or you want to look for a unique gift for you or a friend, then definitely check this one out.

A fond farewell to "I Heart U 2"

2008-07-10T03:35:00.001-07:00

I get attached to my paintings as you may have gathered from the fact I couldn't bear to be parted from the new picture I painted this week!! Today I have sold a painting I am equally as fond of "I Heart U 2". I saw something similar to this at a friends house a couple of years ago and I snapped a shot of it inspired to do something along similar lines. It's fun and yes a little bit girlie, but I loved it from the moment it was dying in my studio and whilst a lot of people admired it, they never bought it and it was tempting to just keep it myself! However, today one of my favourite repeat customers bought it and I'm happy it's going to a good new home. So farewell "I heart U 2", I am sure I will be inspired to do something similar soon!

£25 off with TishTash this month..

2008-07-09T14:02:00.001-07:00

It's that time again for the monthly TishTash brochure to come out and as we're feeling generous we are offering all TishTash customers £25 off when they spend £50 at TishTash and this includes UK delivery too and applies to all of our sale items! We're hoping with the economy the way it is that it makes things a little bit more affordable for people, as after all when setting up TishTash the intention was that everyone should be able to afford a piece of original artwork! If you're not on our mailing list and would like to receive this please get in touch: info@tishtash.co.uk and we will get one to you asap!

Retro Tastic with TishTash

2008-07-09T06:18:00.000-07:00

A lot of my work over the past year has been retro inspired. It seems we are all looking to go back in time, with a modern twist! "Retro Bulby Leafy Leaf" (see left) is just one example of something I have produced. This 60cm x 60cm canvas has a bold burnt orange base, with chocolate brown drippy effect and tiny bronze leafs across the background. It looks fabulous on a big wall from a distance, it's a real statement piece. I get a lot of inspiration from homes and interior magazines, as well as fabric. "Retro Bulby Leafy Leaf" is still for sale on my website, as well as many other retro inspired pieces. Sometimes there is no other way other than to go back in time!

My sundance...

2008-07-09T00:54:00.000-07:00

Things are not looking good for "Cheltenham Art in the Park" which has today been cancelled due to the expected bad weather - a years rain in one day or something like that :( With my week long exhibition starting on Saturday I am a little bit worried. Not that my paintings will get wet as such as they're pretty well covered, but more that who will want to walk around a cold muddy park looking at art in this weather? I am remaining positive, but it's a concern. it was a bit of a wash out last year, so we had better hope for this one. So today I start my sundance rehearsals in preparation for the weekend.....please let the weather forecasts me wrong this time! Now I just have to decide what paintings to take with me...

I loved it so much....I kept it!

2008-07-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

Admittedly I'd be a pretty rubbish business woman if I kept everything I painted. However, now and again I love something so much I keep it and this has happened with my new trio canvas painting. Whilst painting it I knew it was just the colours of my lounge and I'd been meaning to paint something for there for quite some time. However, I also knew I needed a new piece to showcase at "Art in the Park" next week and I thought this was the one. The moment it was finished and I was starring at it, I knew I couldn't sell it, so Choccy Egg Tastic Trio is now mine mine mine! ....and after some balancing with the spirit level is in its new home and it looks fab! I love it when things happen like that as I know if I'd set out to paint something for my lounge I'd still be sitting there thinking!

The good news for you is I have just started 2 new sets which will be for sale, one in mint green, chocolate brown, cream and bronze and another in cream, hot pink, chocolate brown and gold. So, if you like it, there will be more coming soon and you can always commission something similar in your own colour scheme.

The price for 3 panels of 50cm x 20cm is £85 .

More coming soooooon! x

Bridesmaid duties, builder stress...oh and a little bit of painting!

2008-07-07T10:28:00.000-07:00

On my blog not only do I like to fill you in on all the arty news and views, but give you some insight into me and how I juggle a busy full time job, social life and arty business. This week is going to be a challenge, I can feel it!! I booked the day off today to drive up to Leicestershire where I went to school and my family live, as I had to attend a bridesmaid dress fitting for my friend Jen who is getting married at the end of August. Whilst I wasn't looking forward to that, it was actually ok and over very quickly. I then had to brave the motorway and delightful rainy weather back to Cheltenham for the days bigger challenge, sorting my builders out!

For those of you in the know we moved into a new house last December and whilst it's lovely, it's fair to say the ride has not been an easy one. I won't bore you with the details, but all I need to say is that 8 months on we still have a list of about 50 things which need sorting. Today, after finally tracking down the new site manager I may have had a breakthrough and they have assured me all will be resolved by next Tuesday - it's ambitious, but fingers crossed.
Despite being a little bit tired after my roadtrip and Monday adventures, I managed to settle in for an afternoon of painting as it poured with rain outside! The great news is that I have finished the 3 panel painting I was nattering on about the other day, I finished it off with detail in a darker egg shell blue and silver and it's looking GREAT! In fact, I like it so much I have eyed it up for my lounge wall! I've been wanting to do something new for ages for our lounge, but haven't had the time. This inadvertantly could be it! Of course, I will have to take it to Cheltenham Art in Park next week as I am short of new work and if it sells then great...but if not...it's mine..he he!

Pics soon, I still haven't replaced my stolen camers!!

My Saturday hasn't gone to plan...

2008-07-05T12:04:00.001-07:00

You may recall, I had such big plans for this weekend. I inteneded to get everything I needed for "Art in the Park" painted and just myself organised and ready to take on the world next week! In reality, I think my body is telling me to slow down, as firstly I slept in really late (can't remember when I last did that!) and then the rest of the day has been smilarly unproductive...oh well...I should beat myself up less. I have Monday off work (the day job!), so maybe the weekend isn't a total waste just yet. Sometimes you just need to relax......

Work in progress...a 3 panel number!

2008-07-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

It's funny, the trend for multiple panel paintings is still booming. As soon as I paint a set, photograph them and list them on my website for sale, then they are gone! I really should paint more! However, I've never been one to paint to demand as such - maybe I'd be rich if I did...he he! In preparation for some shows and inspired by some other artists work I saw this week in a friends house, I decided to paint a new canvas trio, but to experiment with it and do something a little bit different.

To the left you'll see my progress so far. I have base coated all 3 panels, 2 in a brown colour and one in the ever popular duck egg blue and then I have created an interesting line effect (yes using my toothbrush...not my own toothbrush of course, but you get what I mean!) and so the base is set and it's all ready for some TishTash craziness tomorrow. I am excited about getting into this one and hope it's going to be a bit of a change for me...although I am sure there will be a spot in there somewhere....but you never know!!

I'm hoping to have a finished article soon, so keep checking my blog!

Jet lag sets in....but I'm hanging in there!

2008-07-04T01:22:00.000-07:00

As the week has gone on I've found myself feeling progressively worse for wear after NYC. Usually I'm an early bird heading off to the gym at 6am before work. This week I've been struggling to drag myself out of bed at 7.45! Today was no different. Roll on a Saturday lay in methinks and sorting myself out right and proper. Despite this, I have been having a reasonably productive week and getting some new smaller pieces ready for Art in the park. I have my new hearty set I showed you earlier this week and am now working on a zebra print trio which is a new thing for me and which I have created with the aid of a toothbrush...yes you read that right! I am embracing painting with different items other than a paint brush. Cotton Buds, twigs and the like are all currently on my painting table!! You just never know what effect they will have and that's half the excitement! Pictures should be on here at some point over the weekend if my creativity continues to flow! Talking of "Art in the Park", Steph and I went to see the exhibits of the 2nd week last night. I hear the sales are still approx 50% down which is a shame, but personally I enjoyed the art much more this week. It's fair to say whilst I can appreciate the skill, I am not a big fan of landscapes or pet portraits (although I did sell myself out to paint a windmill once, but that's a whole other story!!). This week there was a lot of bright and funky contemporary artwork and I was very nearly tempted to buy a piece. However, I remembered my lack of wall space! Anyway, back to the day job for now...and dreaming of all the things I could paint should I have more time!!

TishTash Frameys...

2008-07-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

I love adding new things to my TishTash shop and offering alternatives to my core canvases. It's not so easy with art to innovate in terms of products as such, but I am giving it a go and have plans for new notebooks, stationery, bookmarks etc (when I find a spare moment or few!!).

I recently framed some experimental bits of art to see how they looked and I was really pleased with the outcome. Featured are 2 frameys I especially like, "Tree o Tree" and "Splattering". I managed to source some lovely handmade frames in a contemporary neutral feel from a fellow craftsman (it's always good to support others trying to make a living the creative way methinks!) and I think they look great on a little wall space...or a few scattered together to fill a bigger space. At £14.00 they make a really affordable gift too.

TishTash in Situ...

2008-07-03T01:32:00.000-07:00

A lot of people have told me that putting a piece of TishTash Art up, has completely transformed their home or office space. I definitely think that at times there is so much going on in my work, that it's hard to imagine what they would look like hanging in situ. So, to help you out with your imagining, I thought I'd share with you some photos of my work in action so to speak. Enjoy!

New Hearty & Spotties from TishTash!

2008-07-03T01:13:00.000-07:00

I finally managed to get some good painting time in last night ahead of Cheltenham art in the park and I have a couple of pieces finished and ready to show off! As ever, we have bold, funky and spotty creations which will make an eye catching feature for any wall.

"Pinky Hearty Spot Spot" is a mixed media (acrylic and oil) set of two 20cm x 20cm canvases in a chocolate brown heart detail, filled in with bold reds and pinks, with some finer detail in gold. The set look really striking and can be hung in different directions to achieve a very different look. The set of two is £28 or you can buy them seperately for £15. Whilst this is my new hot off the paintbrush set, it can also come in whatever colours you'd like - I am always open for commisions! The second painting I'd like to natter on about today is called "Drippy Choccy Spotty Balls" (people always love the names of my paintings!!!). This painting has actually been in my studio a while and I kept looking at (as I do!) and thinking it needed a little something else. Inspiration hit me...spots..it needed spots! It's transformed what was a nice piece into something extra nice and more striking for sure. "Drippy Choccy Spotty Balls" is 50cm (h) x 40cm (w) and is £50.

I hope you like them....more new pieces on there way as I continue to prepare for the show!

TishTash Joins "We Make Oxford"

2008-07-02T04:50:00.000-07:00

Remember last week I was a little bit hesitant at joining Flickr, well already it's proving a super place to be! Steph and I happened across a group of like minded people called "We Make Oxford" who are looking to organise some affordable, but great events across the UK based on the success of their previous "We Make London" event. We are always up for trying new a event and we live in hope of finding a good one, after many less successful ones, so on the 9th November you can see us both at the gorgeous Oxford Town Hall (check out the photos!).

I can't believe I am thinking of Christmas fairs already, but that's just the way it is I guess! Hmmm...what new goodies can I produce this year?!

To paint or not to paint?

2008-07-02T03:08:00.000-07:00

I'm back from NYC, a little jet lagged and in need of a rest. However, with just over a week until I am due to exhibit at Cheltenham art in the park I need to get my planning head on to make sure I am all set to go.

Last year was my first year taking part in the exhibition and I had a fabulous time meeting lots of like minded artists in Cheltenham (I made some friends too!). I even got into the swing of setting up each day which was a little daunting at first. The way it works, is that you get allocated a railing around one of the big parks in Cheltenham and that screen becomes yours for the week. All you need to do is ensure it's set up by 10am every morning and pack away at 8pm at night. Fitting this in around a full time job is "interesting", but thankfully after the first day taking an hour to set up, I managed to get it down to 5 mins on subsequent days! Mastering the art of hanging your paintings on the little hooks is tricky, but once you get the hang of it, you can get things up very quickly I discovered! I think I may have even achieved something of a world record in screen dismantling by the finish!! The artists who are exhbiting then take part in a rota to act as stewards at the show, providing security to the artwork and taking payment where required. I am still trying to sort my slot for this year, but that proved lots of fun last year too, so I hope they can still find time for me.

Despite it being a pleasureable experience, it's fair to say it wasn't the most successful or profitable show ever (thankfully it's not very expensive!). Typically it fell in the period when we had constant rain in the UK, so who wanted to walk around a park in the cold and wet....no-one! Also, the organisers said sales were down considerably on previous years.

Not one to dwell on what was, I am now rethinking this years strategy. I've been going to see the first 2 weeks of the exhibition (I am week 4) and I hear sales are down even more and the stewards have advised me that smaller pieces are selling best. Damn that credit crunch!! Art is a luxury item I guess and so I am thinking how best to approach this now, given that I only have a week to paint. Typically I don't have many smaller paintings at the moment as I've had a run of selling them. So, it may be time to dust off my paint brush and try and at least to get a couple of new bits done. Decisions Decisions!

I am sure I will be ok. Friends keep telling me I have more work than I realise, I hope so.

As soon as I do have anything new painted I will be sure to tell you about it here!

TishTash and the City

2008-06-25T00:38:00.000-07:00

Only one day until I head stateside to NYC and I can't wait. It's been a bit of a last min thing, but with one thing and another I REALLY need it! Maybe I will find some new inspirations whilst I am over there, or at the very least a nice dress or few...he he.

Trying this Flickr thing out..

2008-06-24T08:08:00.000-07:00

It's good to try new things I know, but sometimes it's hard to know exactly what you've got yourself into! Steph has been wittering (in a good way ;) on at me for a while to use Flickr to showcase my work and get my stuff out there. So today I took the plunge and signed up!! I am still finding my feet and really not sure what I am doing...but here's to trying something new!!

Introducing my latest drippy...

2008-06-24T04:24:00.000-07:00

Those of you who follow me and my work will know that I have become known for my signature drippy design and over the past 2 years have produced lots in every shape and colour (well not every, there are still plenty I want to try out..but you get the gist!!).

I thought I'd introduce my latest drippy "Black Forest Gateau Drippy" to you which is now happily in its new home in Nailsea near Bristol. The mix of burgandy, brownm cream with a little bit of bronze thrown in really work and make it such an eye catching piece. I love it and it was hard waving it goodbye, as I quite fancied it for my own home. I figure that's a good sign! Fancy a drippy? Commision TishTash with your own colour scheme!

Greetings One and All...

2008-06-24T01:52:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd take a few minutes this morning to tell you about my TishTash greetings cards. I have been working on various styles for a while and now have quite a selection , ranging from hand painted flowers, to funky paper designs. They come in lots of different sizes and colours, some blank, some for special occasions.

Sometimes I find it hard to promote my own work as it's so personal, but recently I plucked up the courage to start sending my own cards out for friends as birthday and thank you cards and the reaction has been really good. People have commented how unusual and funky they are, and in true TishTash form how much texture they have! So I am gaining confidence and am now even doing some made to order comissions. So far I have done 50 invites for a 40th birthday which were fun and then a set of 40 thank you cards for a friend who had recently had a baby.

A single card is £1.50 or you can have 4 for £5.00 - what a bargain methinks! I have plenty of cards available, so if you are interested in stocking up check out my website or email me (natasha@tishtash.co.uk). There isn't any cost difference for comission cards or those bought from my stock, so whatever your requirements I'd love to hear from you.

I am always working on new designs, so expect more soon! Hmmm...it's probably time to start working on Christmas soon...eeek! When I find a spare moment I'd also like to expand my stationery range and do writing paper sets and notebooks, I will just keep on looking for that elusive spare moment!!

TishTash & Handmadeheaven Hit Frampton...

2008-06-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who follow our movements, TishTash and Handmadeheaven are on the event roadshow again, this time on the 14th September at the Frampton Country Show (check out the picture)!

I've done this show for the past 2 years and it is a big event in the Gloucestershire county calender, with all sorts of events (shooting, horse shows, dog trials - you get the gist!). If I'm being honest the past 2 years haven't been a roaring success for me, but I always live in hope and think "this could be the year!" Well that's what I keep telling Steph of Handmadeheaven who is happy to give it a go with me. It works out well sharing a stand as our colourful products work well together and it brings the overall cost of breaking even down!! So, we will be giving it a go and I am sure we will fill you in on our day when it happens.

So, I guess that means I should think of some new inspirations, as I do like having a couple of new pieces at each show.

If you have any ideas of events Steph and I could attend in a reasonable proximity to Gloucestershire, then please get in touch!

TT x

New TishTash June Brochure OUT NOW!!

2008-06-22T04:48:00.000-07:00

Hello again and Sunday Greetings.

It's been a traumatic few days with one thing and another, but let's not go into that...

For those of you not all that in the know about TishTash, every month I produce a new brochure to showcase all my current work for sale. It gives people the chance to browse my work at leisure and it's also a good way of getting me known and spreading the word. My new brochure is now out containing lots of funky pieces, some new framed artwork (check out "The Splattering" below) and even some sale items so people can grab a bargain!

If you are not on my brochure mailing list but would like to be, please email me (natasha@tishtash.co.uk) and I will be happy to add you in...you will also get all my latest news then too!

Back to my paint brush...

One day to go....

2008-06-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

Aside from my art and all things TishTash, I am also extremely passionate about my day job working for a marketing agency in the Cotwsolds. However, currently my stress levels are rising and it's all taking over my life a little as I prepare for the company summer party which is this year themed "one night in Hollywood". Tomorow is "the day" and so final preparations are on and the panic is setting in....mostly because I still don't have that all important outfit to wear! A girls got to have a great dress and all that! ...and don't even get me on to the thought of stepping on to that stage and presenting the evening....argh! Keep everything crossed for me! Photographic evidence on Friday....should I survive!

TishTash xx

Photographic Evidence from the Weekend!

2008-06-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

Well I finally managed to sort out some photos from my past weekend exhibiting at Sudeley Castle (thanks Steph!), so I thought I would share them with you!

As you can see the combination of my bright funky canvases and Steph's fabulous contemporary fused glasswork worked a treat! Although I am not sure even the pictures do it real justice. It was a colourful feast!

I think it may be a while before I do a similar show as it is so much work to prepare, but it was fun to get out, spread the TishTash word and meet lots of other talented art and craft people. I now have some interesting comission work to get on with, some preparation for the Cheltenham Art in the Park exhibition in July and a few other new experimental ideas to explore! I look forward to telling you all about it soon...so as they say, watch this space! Ps...3 days on and new blogging habit going well!!

TishTash Goes Spotty, Hearty & Flowery!

2008-06-16T00:44:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have followed TishTash's progress over the past couple of years, you will have seen some crazy styles develop! Of course the TishTash Drippy remains my signature style which I still love painting. However, some new styles are starting to gain demand and see me exploring new themes and avenues which is all exciting stuff!

You may have noticed that sets of 2, 3 or 4 paintings have become popular in recent years and this is definitely a trend I can testify too. As soon as I have painted a multiple set it flies out of my shop...so I really should be painting more of them... however, all that lining up means that they can be a bit time consuming and so they aren't always practical.

Recently I have had some fun little sets comissioned which I thought I'd tell you about. My "Spotties" have always been popular, but now I am painting sets of 3 of these for people with bold childlike outlines, and more spots in metallics and bold contrasting colours. So far I have done 2 spotty sets in pinks/red/ gold and one in teal/ chocolate brown/ beige and I have others planned. They are going down a storm and I am really quite fond of them...even if I do say so myself!

On the success of these I am now working on sets of "hearty" and "flowery" ones which I hope will be available from the end of June. You can see my first hearty one "Hearty Green copper Dopper" which is currently for sale in my Etsy Shop (http://www.tishtash.etsy.com/) and will shortly be available on my website. A set in Pink/ red/ gold is currently in progress and bold primary colour flowers are in concept stage.

Prices for 20cm x 20cm canvas sets are £28 for 2 and £36 for 3. Other size sets and prices available on request.

I can't tell you how great these look on neutral walls and you can hang them in a vertical line, horizontal line or as you like.

If you would like any more info, or are interested in exploring different colour schemes then get in touch with me on natasha@tishtash.co.uk.

I'm Pooped after a weekend at the Castle!

2008-06-15T14:13:00.000-07:00

It's been a while I know! I realise I haven't been the most inspiring blogger ever (slight understatement!!), but I aim to change all that after pledging to my friend and very inspirational blogger Steph (of www.handmadeheaven.biz) that I would be better!! I have commited to 4 posts a week, seeing as I do actually get up to a lot, so I should really start telling you all about it. This is the first, so let me tell you about my weekend and why TishTash is a wee bit pooped!

This weekend I did my first show of 2008 (yes I am aware it's June!). Over the course of 2007 I realised that craft and art shows may not be the best forum for me to sell my work and having lost plenty of time and money on what can only be described as "crappy" shows I decided to give it a rest and just focus on my website and gaining new commission work. It has definitely paid off and I may actually make some profit this year (whoohooo!)...it only took 2.5 years! Anyway, I digress...this weekend I decided to do the Designer Arts ad Craft Show at Sudeley Castle as it's just on the outskirts of Cheltenham where I live and it looked good on paper as it was being held at the Ballooning Grand Prix with 10,000 people expected. However, it's fair to say it's been a challenging weekend!

First off I am currently crippled with a bad back and so was unable to carry any of my work or set it up. My very lovely boyfriend Gary got left with this task much to his horror...and mine when he never seemed to put anything where I wanted it...he he he. Add in the very long days (10am - 7pm) and a real lack of people and thus sales and all in all it wasn't great!

That said one of my regular customers turned up to put a smile on both mine and Steph's faces as he purchased one of my fave paintings "Drip Green Square Tastic" ( a funky lime, chocolate brown and gold number in classic TishTash design) and some glassy goodies from Steph! His purchases meant we both broke even which is always a relief for any fair. However, that was pretty much the end of the sales...as we sat there for what seems like 3 weeks and many bags of chocolates later!

So we aren't rich just yet....but on the positive, we handed out loads of postcards and as ever we met lots of nice and talented people. One to mention is the fabulous vintage clothing designer Charmaine Bartram (www.charmainebartram.com) who is super talented and whose work wouldn't look out of place in the likes of Vogue and probably the Sex and the City Film. I made a few purchases from her stand, totally wiping out any money I did make...but then again why change a habit of a lifetime as I always do that, but I do end up with some fab one off bits!

Anyway, I am off to bed now tired and wishing I'd had a little bit of a weekend. Back to the grind of the day job tomorrow and a particularly challenging week as I have the company summer party happening on Thursday which i have organised....

Please eagerly await my next 3 posts this week, when I tell you all about my exciting new plans!!

Nighty night. TishTash xxx

It's been a while....

2007-06-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

Hello again and apologies for the delay....i've been away sunning myself somewhere hot and paintings, exhibitions and shows were a long way from my mind! I'm currently suffering from a bit of painters block, which isn't good seeing that I have a big exhibition in just over a weeks time. It is that time of year again where Cheltenham, the town where I live, holds their open air art exhibition in the Imperial Gardens, one of the nicest parks in the town. Local artists can all apply to have a railing around the edge of the park for a week. This is a great chance to exhibit your work and it's also a very reasonable price. In return you have to be there to set up and pack away each day and do 2 half days of stewarding. I'm quite looking forward to it as long as a) I have some paintings to exhibit by then and b) it doesn't rain!! Given our current weather that could be asking for a lot. Anyway....wish me luck...i may need it given the current rate I am painting at and look forward to me showcasing lots of new work here soon!

I promise I won't be so long next time.....

It's Only May 14th and I'm already tired!!

2007-05-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello again,

May's one of my favourite months, not only is it my birthday, but the weather is getting better (obviously this year is an exception) and people just seem happier. It may only be the 14th of May, but I already seem to have squeezed more into it than I do most other months and you know, I really am quite tired! However, I am determined not to complain as it's all good really.

I started the month stressed, as I had my big show, the Cheltenham Home and Garden show, which can attract 25,000 people. Only weeks before I'd had the chance of a good exhibition and had ended up giving away most my fave pieces, so I had been left with 2 weeks to paint paint paint! Painting under pressure is never good, as you never paint your best pieces and I do have to admit to feeling a little bit compromised. Oh well, I got there in the end and I really needn't have worried, as whilst there was a lot of people at the show, very few were buying (hmmm...yes, I think I'm starting to get worried about the state of the economy and how much people are going to have to spend on art). The show was tiring, but fun. I'd invited my friend Steph of www.handmadeheaven.biz to exhibit with me, as it's always better sharing it with someone and we did find plenty to amuse ourselves with (all the wrong things of course...the turkish property developer telling me I was his sunrise and sunset, all dodgy fashion show etc). I sold 2 big pieces, a greetings card and received a small commission, so it's fair to say I won't be retiring anytime soon.

Just when I was starting to get a bit down with it all and considered throwing it all in for an easier life, a few things happened. I sold a big painting off my website to someone through the show, I got approached by a big FMCG company who had money to spend on art and wanted me and then an interior company in Cheltenham want to sell my work and throw me a launch party too (champagne...wheyhey!).

So, it's been tiring, full of highs and lows, but you know what, there really is light at the end of the tunnel.

....and on that note TishTash is heading off to Egypt for 2 weeks of sunshine and relaxation. I can't wait!

Commissions - you never know where they're going to take you!

2007-05-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

Over the past year I've received lots of commissions. People present me with pictures they like but can't afford, fabrics of their new curtains, wallpaper, paint chart samples, greetings cards, wrapping paper, you name it! Whilst setting up my business I've probably been a bit guilty of accepting any commission just to get the business in. Don't get me started on the Dutch windmill landscape scene which took me 6 months I hated it so much!! My new policy is only to accept commissions which fit in my area (e.g. colourful contemporary abstract stuff) and which I am comfortable with from the start.

Recently I had a new experience in that I was approached to produce a painting for an 18th birthday present his girlfriend. She had lots of ideas, but didn't really know what she wanted. The main bit of inspiration she gave me was that he was a fan of old skool rave stuff and so bright colours were a must. As a bit of throw away comment she told me that he loved the artwork on the Klaxons CD cover. I went home and had a few attempts at some rave inspired numbers, but nothing was working. Then as luck would have it, my boyfriend had the Klaxons CD on the shelf and well, that took me off in a whole new direction! I ended up choosing key elements of the cover work and incorporating them in a canvas design. There was my usual texture, colour and quirkiness, but it was so different from my usual work, that even I was shocked at the outcome, I liked it! My favourite bit is that I managed to incorporate the "future" line in the design, which is soooo appropriate for the occasion.

The time came to deliver it, I was nervous, I mean there is always that chance that someone may hate it. However, phew...she loved it and now I just hope her boyfriend feels the same when he receives it as a gift later this month.

You know, I really enjoyed the new challenge and it got me thinking that this could be my new line. I may try Kylie next :) So, if you have any favourite CD or record cover artwork, send it my way for a one off inspired design!

Welcome to my blog!

2007-05-11T12:58:00.000-07:00

Hello there and welcome to the blog of Tash Hatherall, increasingly known as TishTash, marketeer by day, contemporary artist all the remaining hours in the day! As my TishTash business takes off (hurrah!) I find myself with less hours in the day, so I'm creating this blog as a way of keeping my friends, family and customers more informed on what I'm up to, with all my latest news, thoughts and witterings! I do like to talk you know....