Halifax: In the Studio

This week I have been spending lots of time in the studio working through my ideas.

I am still waiting for glazes and decals that have been ordered, so this week I have been exploring forms and techniques using majolica red clay and white slip made from recycled clay.

Red majolica clay with white slip and scrafito imagery

Carving shapes from clay

Meanwhile I have been learning how to whittle wooden spoons. It is very addictive and I am finding it hard to stop.

Tools and materials used to hand carve wooden spoons
& a walnut spoon in progress

The artists who are participating in the residency got together to present their work to date and to discuss what they propose to do over the next two months. It is very inspiring to see everyone's artwork and to hear what they are planning to do. To find out more about the participating artists click here. 

To escape the summer heat I have been looking for cool cafes to hang out where I can continue to read about the history and lives of women in Nova Scotia. A recent discovery is Julien's Patisserie Bakery & Cafe in the North End. They have a lovely shady outdoor courtyard and make delicious treats. I tried a praline meringue filled with hazelnut cream. Yum!

This week I have been reading:
- The 1815 Diary of a Nova Scotia Farm Girl. Louisa Collins, of Colin Grove, Dartmouth.  Edited and annotated by D McClare
- Early Voices. Portraits of Canada by Women Writers, 1649 - 1914. Edited by M.A Downie & B Robertson with EJ Errington
- Sisters in the Wilderness. The lives of Susanna Moodie and Catharine Parrtraill by Charlotte Gray

And yesterday I visited Peggy's Cove, which is about an hour south of Halifax. It is a tiny fishing village and its main tourist attraction is the lighthouse, although I felt the village itself was much more interesting. Because of its scenic views it is now also known as an artist haven and is home to many artists - it is very tempting to spend a couple of days here sketching.

Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove

The Lighthouse.

Unfortunately I ran out of time to sketch here but I did take lots more photos for inspiration. Click here if you would like to see more of Peggy's Cove.

Kx