Donna
has been involved in the arts most of her life. Coming from an artistic family
she was encouraged from an early age growing up in the Sydney suburb of Revesby
to draw, dance and sing. Motto: "We Care About Nature"
Donna
has been involved in the arts most of her life. Coming from an artistic family
she was encouraged from an early age growing up in the Sydney suburb of Revesby
to draw, dance and sing.
Donna decided in the 70’s to pursue a career on the stage after realising that serious ballet just wasn’t fulfilling her need to perform. After touring with a few shows including the original Lloyd Webber production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” Donna took a right turn into motherhood. And that changed her life forever.
It wasn’t until Donna took a job at a picture framer’s in 1984 that she began to think about the arts again. Donna experimented with oils and landscapes at first selling them at local charity art shows. She began exploring pencil sketching and developed a close relationship with pencil sketch artist Ron Driscoll, this too led to her life long love of the bush. But Donna missed “colour” and moved into pastels and watercolour pencils.
Stuck for a subject to enter the still life section in a local art show and not keen on painting flowers or fruit Donna painted a row of old teddy bears and raggedy clowns as her subject matter. This humble painting not only won a prize but sold! So began a decade of teddy bear paintings.
By this time Donna had a thriving picture framing and gallery business at Baulkham Hills a north west suburb of Sydney and it wasn’t until the mid 90s that Donna began experimenting with acrylics, by this time she was selling well in art galleries and shows with both her teddy paintings and circus clown portraits. During this time Donna expanded into licensed product.
Due to Donna’s husband Col’s ill health in 1996 Donna closed the framing business and moved to the far south coast of NSW. Donna continued to produce licensed product from her bush studio and it was at this time she began teaching decorative artists her teddy fur techniques.
Another right turn saw Donna becoming more and more involved in the decorative art world having her projects published regularly in the Australian Decorative Painting magazine and later her first book published by Viking Folk Art Publications in the US for the world wide market. Donna began travel teaching throughout Australia and overseas.
After a long battle Col’s big heart finally gave out in 2006 and after much thought Donna decided that the beauty of the south coast was a thing of the past. It was time to take another right turn!
Now living on the central coast of NSW close to daughter Shannon and her 4 wonderful grandchildren Donna is finally beginning to paint once more with the help of family, friends.
2008 is looking brighter and sunnier with Donna’s return to teaching. Donna is also exhibiting again for the fi rst time in a number of years with an exhibition in July at Boyd Fine Art Gallery at Struggletown.
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PLAYHOUSE PROMOTIONS 12th May 2008 Gliblins first came to my late husband and I years ago when we lived in State Forest in a little mud brisk home on the Clyde River near Batemans Bay NSW. They are a cross between Gnomes and Goblins and arrived on the shores of Australia with our earliest white settlers. They seem to have acquired only the loveliest parts of both the gnome and goblin world and are here for the next generation to teach them and guide them through the obstacles in the world that they will inherit. I began painting them into my works in 1995 when Magica visited one evening. I then proceeded to paint a lot of the other little Gliblins as they appeared and so acquiring quite a collection. I have reproduced some of their images on usable items such as a jewellery box, tarot table, secrets box and many more. All my paintings on these items are for sale, some of which may be found on the Gift Shop page on my web site www.artbydonnagilbertson.com Another thought is to consider having your own very special gnome painted into any situation you desire as a painting for the wall or a usable item for the home. Love and Light Donna |
Here are some of Donna's Gliblins...check out her web site for more of these wonderful little folk. Donna also has some of her originals available for sale.
Tray |
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Book Cover |
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Table |
Watch next month for more Gliblins by Donna Gilbertson
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Education and trends have prompted many to take up the challenges associated with publishing a book. It would be so gratifying to see more folks create stories involving children in their lives just like one of our new members. She has written a diary of an event and included in it two young boys and a magical gnome. I have read her story and found it very enjoyable - so just imagine how the boys will treasure it and even perhaps enjoy it with future generations. The book will also contain drawings by a wonderful neighbor that the boys will be able to colour!
Once the book is complete this member has indicated that she will be willing to share it with us.
Are there any other budding writers out there? Or would be writers that are inspired by this member's endeavor? Certainly scrap bookers could create a page that would embellish a wonderful gnome adventure.
We have many talented members - why not share your short stories or offer advice to budding artists.
QueenGnome G7
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Crochet
Gnome Pattern!
Small amounts of worsted weight yarn in whatever colors you want. H or G hook. I'm not a big one for checking gauge when making toys, but he's about 6 inches tall. If you use a finer yarn and a smaller hook, he'll be smaller. Bigger hook and yarn, bigger gnome. Felt or fabric scrap and embroidery thread for the face.
Ch 4, join to make a circle. Ch 1 (counts as sc), sc 6 in circle (7 sc). Don't join, place marker and continue in rounds, moving marker up as you go. 2 sc in each sc (14 sc). 2 sc in each sc (28 sc). 1 sc in each sc. 2 sc in first sc, 1 sc in next around (42 sc). Work even for 7 rounds. Change to belt color and work even for 2 rounds. Sc 5, dec 1 around (36 sc). Change to face color. Sc 4, dec 1 around (30 sc). Sc 3, dec 1 around (24 sc). Work even 2 rounds. Dec 4 stitches evenly around (20 sc). Work even 2 rounds. Change to hat color. Work 1 round even. Dec 4 stitches evenly around (16 sc). Work 2 rounds even. Dec 4 stitches evenly around (12 sc). Work 3 rounds even. Sc 2, dec 1 around (9 sc). Work 2 rounds even. Sc 1, dec 1 around (6 sc). At this point you can decrease around again as best you can and chain 3 or 4 to finish his hat, or just pull his hat closed by putting your yarn on a needle and stitching through the remaining stitches, pulling it tight and chaining.
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Royal Greetings,
Our next draw is one that I hope to receive lots of responses from members. 2009
will mark the 10th year Anniversary for the World Wide Gnome Association. We
need a special club crest; it would be wonderful to receive drawings and/or
suggestions for one that will depict this milestone.
Submit your entries by email or snail mail before May 15th. The final design will be the result of your submissions - so, don't delay start work on it today!
The draw winner will receive a FREE 10th
WWGA Anniversary Crest.
(You must be a WWGA member to be eligible to enter draws.)
QueenGnome G7
| MEMBER | 10th ANNIVERSARY CREST SUGGESTIONS |
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Here's an idea......tree rings....10 of them, a gnome toasting to the year.......after that I'm stumped.....maybe you can add to it....I tried saying 1999 - 2009 and it looked bad, then I put Celebrating 10 years and 2009 and it was too much.....I liked a simpler one but I'll turn it over to you......hugs, Marafae G1 |
The tenth year of celebration is the first of the major milestone anniversaries. As we celebrate this special 10th association anniversary, think about the durability of our commitment to gnomes and mother earth for a full decade. Here are some 10th anniversary ideas and symbols to help you tin, aluminum, or diamonds! And we all know how gnomes are famous for collecting such items. Remember, Skip our little tin can collector gnome from the Mushroom Lane series?
Skip definitely suggests 10th Anniversary Traditional Gifts like tin or aluminum. The pliability of tin and aluminum is a symbol of how a successful belief needs to be flexible and durable and how it can be bent without being broken. Keep gnomes alive within your hearts and minds.
Female gnomes often receive 10th Anniversary Contemporary/Modern Gifts direct from mother earth such as a diamond. It is important that our belief in gnomes and concern for mother earth is as durable and beautiful as a diamond. Blue sapphires are also symbols of lasting associations. For centuries gnome lore has indicated that many gnomes are nocturnal beings and sapphires represent a night sky. By caring for mother earth we help to keep our sky blue and free from pollution.
Silver and blue - sky colours - emanate from diamonds and sapphires while the 10th anniversary flower, the daffodil with its trumpet-shape represents joy, cheerfulness, and happiness - nourishment from the sun.
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Have you ever been asked:
I have no one to consult with who delves into why humans collect specific things -- but I have a few personal thoughts on the subject. A family's country of origin may have a lot to do with our personal leanings - or maybe we just see an item that attracts our attention and find ourselves unsuspectingly off and running. With Gnomes, I think it's their faces and their spark of warm charm that latch onto those of us who feel deeply about our troubled world in general. They're peace-loving souls and protectors of our earth. Most of us collectors are aware that the name "GNOME" means "Guarding naturally over mother earth."
Some people refuse to get hooked on anything they consider too "folksy" or "cutesy quaint" - as they prefer a highly stylized home that has rooms furnished like whole settings purchased from an upscale furniture store. They simply lack imagination (and courage). They feel that a furniture store knows best and they can't possibly go wrong buying a whole look. I, however, like an eclectic look. Oak and dark-toned ornate woods are my favorites, and there's not a Gnome in my home who clashes with a thing (and vice versa). Their hats go with everything I have.
So many people lack the gumption to start a fun collection. They don't want the dusting, don't want to spend the money, think they're too old to start something new - all sorts of reasons. It's almost like they've given up on wanting to have a little unique pleasure. I used to have a neighbor who was a true cleaning fanatic. When she saw my shady kitchen window filled with part of my Gnome collection, she actually asked, "Are they part of your religion?"
Even if guests don't know much about Gnomes, they all ask questions … and I hand them a copy of my "Gnome Lore" for them to take home. Sometimes I get a call shortly thereafter, telling me of a Gnome for sale somewhere that I should quickly go to see.
Recently, I had surgery on my right leg. A replacement lower femur bone and new knee were urgently needed. I was a mess before and after, and tired of pain. Of course, I have quite a few Gnomes in the bedroom - many of whom are nappers, and many of whom are awake and helpful (like a fellow holding a little basket that contains a special Rosary).
When I realized that muscle relaxants and a strong pain-killer were kind of turning my days into nights and nights into days, I held off taking them one especially bad day. Instead, I scrupulously observed every Gnome from my bed. I painfully struggled to get out of bed and onto my walker to hobble through each room and take a look at all the Gnomes, Gnome pictures, and Gnome needlework items. I reaffirmed how much happiness and inner chuckling I derive from each and every one, no matter what size they are. Serious ones and humorous ones brighten my entire home every day, all day.
I believe that Gnomes communicate with us in their own unique way. Their precious faces never change. They never complain, they take everything in their stride -- and each little face truly says so much about that particular Gnome's soul. I looked at every one of mine, told each roomful how much they are appreciated, and I thanked them for providing me with a good perk up.
My Gnomes never outwardly grumble or have bad days that I'm aware of. I, on the other hand, was having all bad days after the leg surgery and was unable to pull myself out of a dark hole. Every day was a disastrous struggle that two special human friends brightened with visits. My precious cat was worried and stayed especially close, and my home's Gnomes never failed to cheer me with their consistently "up" spirits that I knew were there for me even in the dark. I managed to make a cup of fresh coffee when I got to the kitchen, and it tasted delicious in a mug with an adorable Gnome design on the side.
I always have coffee and meals on Gnome design china, and it's fun to wait to see a Gnome or two at the bottom of a soup bowl or dinner plate! As a child, I watched for the couple fleeing across a bridge on my Grandmother's Blue Willow china pattern soup bowls when I had chicken noodle soup at her home. Now another family member has those bowls, and I use Gnome-patterned dishware. I have two basic sets (also glassware), but I've added many mugs and unusual pieces with Gnome designs. What a happy way to start the day! and a soothing way to end it. Guests enjoy the mix of china designs with various Gnome placemats. Some of them came already covered in plastic, but I had the paper ones laminated. Most of my placemats came from the 'Gift Chalet' in Auburn, Massachusetts and the 'Wooden Spoon' in Plano, Texas.
What's my usual answer as to what got my collection started? My family is mostly still in Sweden, and Gnomes are a big part of Swedish history. Not only do they work on Christmas gifts for children all year and deliver them (with assistance from goats, etc.), but they help adults, children, farmers and animals everywhere. My Grandmother had an adorable concrete Gnome with a wheelbarrow, and he fascinated me. He isn't large, and she must have brought him from Sweden. My Mom gave him a place of honor, and so have I. He's always lived indoors. My Dad re-painted him, but the paint didn't last too long. Perhaps the Gnome prefers to keep a very low profile without paint.
Please tell us how and why
you started collecting !
'Bye now, from Gnome Devotee G7…
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| April 1 | Gnome Sighting Day |
| April 8 | Wool Sampling Week |
| April 22 | Bird Day |
| May 1 | National Gnome Chanting Day (Australia) |
| Early May | Be Kind to Animals Week |
| May 10 | Annual Gnome Council Meeting |
| June 1 | Penguin Dusting Day (Australia) |
| June 5 | Preservation of Good Animals Day |
| June 6 | World Environment Day |
| June 12 | Ladybug Day |
| June 21 | Walnut Shell Boat Regatta (Summer/Winter Solstice) |
With the approach of the Gnomes' Wool Sampling Week it will be a wonderful time to share stories, pictures and patterns for gnome made wool items.
Wool felting is a wonderful hobby and easy for almost anyone to do. Make a wonderful gnome wall hanging using the drawings in the colouring book or little gnomes from wool felt. Visit your local library and pick up a book on working with wool.
Whether you knit, crochet, needlepoint, spin or felt why not share your gnome patterns and pictures with other WWGA members. And, in case you run into difficulties, Gnome Devotee G9 is an experienced needle worker who has volunteered to assist members.
Email submissions to QueenGnome for publication in our current quarterly newsletter.
Every member who submits something will be entered to will a surprise gnome craft kit.
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Dear Queen Gnome:
Here is a picture of an embroidered gnome wall hanging/dreamcatcher that I made for my nephew. It's very easy to do: After I embroidered the image, I put it into a wooden embroidery hoop, glued lace around the top and attached the beaded fringe on the bottom. You can buy the beaded fringe in a craft store. (I have also attached this image to this email for download, if you would like to use it for the newsletter.) Thank you for all the gnome news, Kathryn Sheehan The Silver Penny www.thesilverpenny.com |
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The WWGA commenced in July 1999. Today we have 298 members
world-wide.
We currently have 2 club crests. A First Year Crest and a 5th Year Crest if you
think you are entitled to one they can be obtained for $5 including postage.
Contact QueenGnome to order.
As 2009 will mark our 10th Year a very special 10-year crest will be designed.
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In 2007 the WWGA welcomed 6 new members!
The one time $10 membership fee helps to support this club and provide monthly
contest prizes.
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When we move, it’s often a challenge to find places for many of our belongings. A human’s new home can sometimes offer wonderful (but challenging) places to creatively enhance with Gnomes. Besides, Gnomes are so adaptable and usually happy anywhere.
This little sleeping fellow has been in many places of my homes – a
bedroom, next to a CD player on the floor, on a book shelf – and now he’s leaning on the corner of a
high display shelf in my kitchen (with his own Christmas tree). He looks so
content resting an arm on his knee.
A black marble kitchen countertop hangs over into my dining room. I wanted something special for that odd wall.
A cute Gnome china set had been stored in a box for a long time – so I decided to create a Gnome coffee party that would fit on the wall under the black marble overhang.
I couldn’t find small flatware, so I used tiny ‘taste sample’ spoons from a frozen yogurt store.
The table candleholder is from a Jenny Nystrom design purchased at the Kalmar Lansmuseum in Kalmar, Sweden (Jenny’s home town).
I found a set of little chairs that are now in a soft tan color, to match a table I painted the same color.
A
wonderful guy Gnome and one lady Gnome are happy at the table with my Mom's
beautiful doll (holding the small bear) and a newly-attired fellow named "Huggleby."
This is Huggleby. He came with old clothing in a much-worn condition and no hat. He's very happy at the table (above, left). I named him "Huggleby" because he's very huggy - and his eyes open and close!
He also urgently needed a Gnome hat and foot covers … and I bought him a cute shirt and denim overalls in a 6-month size. When I couldn't decide which size to buy, the sales gal in Wal-Mart's children's' department suggested I bring the child with me. (How could I tell her the overalls and shirt were for a Gnome?) His adorable feet needed home-made felt shoes, because they're way too chubby to fit into a child's shoe.
Little Gnomes scattered
throughout my former large home needed containment. I was fortunate to find the
bow-front china cabinet that is perfect in front of sliding shutter panels that
cover wide glass doors to a little porch area.
The Gnome on a swing (below) is fastened to a plant hanger hook in the vaulted ceiling over the main kitchen sink work area. He’s one of the original Rein Poortvliet guys.
Because a formal dining room is on the other side, I placed grapevines and other artificial greenery on the black marble counter to help camouflage the sink faucets and flat back of my only TV.
It’s the kind of area you’re always fiddling with until you find the best solution (for the moment).
Sent to all of you to share for fun
…
From Gnome Devotee G9
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I am very pleased to advise that I have been in touch with our member from Mexico who had a terrible fall down a staircase. She is mending although it has been an exceptionally trying time for her. She tells me that gnomes are assisting her with her recovery. And, just look at the absolutely wonderful mini water colours that she is creating!
I found some fun gnome fabric which is great for eyeglass cases. If anyone is interested in purchasing one (2 available) contact QueenGnome. They will be $5 including postage for members and $7 each for non-members.
For a better view of this fabric check out the gnome fabric page.
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This
fantastic piece is available as a X-Stitch PatternHere is a thumbnail image for you of an amazing X-stitch pattern created by an original by Christy Babrick. For ordering information, the chart is $14.99 and can be downloaded from the site noted below for on-demand ordering, or it can be mailed to you with additional shipping costs, or you can have a spiral bound collectors book, which is $5.00 extra. [click the picture to see a larger version].
Website address is: http://www.stabandstash.com/
Any emails may be directed to tammy@stabandstash.com
Artist Christy Babrick website is: http://www.fairyencounters.com/
Please note that the image is copyrighted.
To order, you will have to create an account with "stab and stash".
Feel free to ask anymore questions you may have by emailing Tammy@stabandstash.com.
Tammy has several other gnome images from Chrissy to chart, so watch for them in future newsletters.
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Check out the Winfield Collection web site for 2 new gnome patterns including little gnome doors!
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EU-5795 – Sammy the Swinging Gnome Sculpture is $29.95 from www.DesignToscano.com
Size is 8 1/2 W x 6 D x 15 H. (Looks like the Fairestware styles.)
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Alpenland catalog has several Gnomes, too.
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www.plowandhearth.com – 1-800-627-1712 Item #50874. He’s only $32.95 (plus postage, of course).
He’s 19 in. tall X 7 in. dia. … holding a nice hoe and made of a high-quality cast resin with a weather-resistant, multi-layer finish.
He’s got a faint smile and nice hat between cute ears. He looks quite wise and ancient, and would certainly lend a “historic” touch to any garden or indoor porch.
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Watch for more
information on this new gnome rubber stamp! If you just can't wait email info@alphastamps.com
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New Ceramic Gnomes by Clay Magic! Order from your local ceramic shops!
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Felt by hand or machine in about 1 hour! Comes with accessories -- A Silver Penny Exclusive!
It is well known that gnomes, hobbits and fairies have a love for growing things. That's why we are offering this simple, fun and ultimately adorable kit! It contains everything you need (except felting pad) to needle felt your own plot of land plus one 2½ inch gnome doll, three fairy-sized gardening tools, and a picket fence, mini gathering basket, garden sign and a crop of miniature carrots. The unique needle felting method used for this project is a bit different and so clever and easy, you'll be thrilled to learn how it's done! This kit is very easy and includes step-by-step instructions with color photos. It is quite suitable for all skill levels, especially a beginner, and recommended for age 12 and older, or younger with adult supervision. Finished garden measures about 6" square. The cost per kit is $17.95.
For more informatio or to order contact: Kathryn Sheehan, The Silver Penny, LLC 18 Star Road Cape Elizabeth, Maine 04107 Phone: 207-799-2447 http://www.thesilverpenny.com
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