Art at the Coco Cafe in Cedar

If you are out and about in the lovely village of Cedar or Yellowpoint, make sure to stop by the Coco Cafe in the village center. This funky little Co-operative is a welcome addition to the community and is a great place to grab a coffee and a bite to eat.  For years my friends and I have said that after a run we needed a place where we could grab a little java (and a treat to replace those lost calories!). Now we have it.

I was pleasantly surprised about a month ago when I saw that they were looking for local artists to display their work. Luckily, I got in and wanted to share with folks that I now have 13 pieces of art (many new) on display this month.  So, stop by and check it out and support those who support local artists.

"It's that simple" Art workshop a success

This weekend I had the pleasure of helping six great ladies create something from nothing here at the Broody Rooster. Five of the gals had signed up together - sisters and girlfriends who wanted to try something new and leave with a finished piece of art. Well, I am happy to say that they kept pace, worked hard, got through the "uglies" and left with some wonderful pieces. I commented that it was a great idea to do the workshop together because now they can paint together (over a glass of wine perhaps) and help remind one another about what they learned. Congratulations ladies, you are super successful with your work.

That is it for workshops for a month or two (but I am happy to entertain groups that may want to do something in April or May). But, there is lots of room for the workshops this summer in June and July. I have these posted mid week as three day workshops, but if someone wants to do just two days - we can adjust the price accordingly too. And, if weekdays in the summer don't work for you, I can entertain a weekend so long as I can get at least 4 people together.

C'mon, take a plunge and try something new - you will never look at art the same again - and you will add a new talent to your repertoire at the same time (never mind the painting that you leave with - that YOU did).

New creations at the January workshop

I think one of the things I love the most about my art life, is teaching others to create through acrylics. Inevitably people comment about how they cannot even draw stick people, thereby implying that they shouldn't even dare to try and paint. I respond to this commentary that painting is not about lines, its about layers. Rethinking our default position on art and creativity is the start of all things magical.

I was lucky in January to have a workshop with some newbies and a few of my faithful workshop participants. Together we spent the weekend creating all sorts of master pieces in the cottage (see photos).

If you are wanting to join in some fun - the March workshop is completely full, but there are some summer workshops taking place in our new barn - or if you want to connect, I may put on a workshop in April or May if I had enough interest. Just send me a note or gather a few friends together and let me know!

Art profile on Shaw Cable

This year, just prior to the Artisan Tour, I was asked if I could meet with the folks at Shaw Cable to do a short clip on my art. When the crew arrived, I learned that it would be a bit more extensive, but they walked me through the process and produced a nice clip.  They asked about what inspires me, how I work, features of my studio/gallery and workshops. I must admit I was really nervous about it, but the process was quite fun in the end. 

I kept hearing from folks who had seen the clip, but hadn't had a chance to see it until tonight! Other than seeing my wrinkles and age creeping up on me, I am quite pleased - thanks Shaw for the coverage.

If you are keen to take a watch, you can view the clip here: NICOLE VAUGEOIS ON SHAW CABLE

Art workshops posted for 2013 at the Broody Rooster

Well, that time of year has come again. Time to post the calendar of workshops for the 2013 year. This year I have kept the focus to art and there are workshops happening throughout the summer. If you are wanting to work with Acrylics, get some creative time with others and be inspired by some country air - make sure to join us.

For a list of the workshops, please go to www.broodyrooster.com for a full list of events.

All workshop participants are invited to show their art at this years Summer Art Show and Sale, August 15-18 at the Broody Rooster.  That way you can invite friends and family to share in your success and, if you want to add a price tag to it, you can sell it as well!  More information to come on that... but for now - sign up before all the spots are gone!

Artisan Tour a big success

This years Artisan Tour was a big success.  I had two guest artistans at the Broody Rooster Gallery - Marci Leighton and Lesley Lorenz. This was Marci's "coming out event" as an artist and she sold a ton of artwork! Congrats Marci.  This is Lesley's second year with me and her artwork commanded just as many kudos from the crowds.

We had folks come through the cottage like other years, but this year, they were also able to head out into the barn to find more artwork upstairs. I think extra space was great, and I know people enjoyed getting out to visit a farm and the critters around the place.

The art tour is always so much fun. I get to see all kinds of folks that I haven't seen for awhile, talk art, sell it but most importantly, it helps me grow as an artist. I can see my own work change each year and having people comment on their favorites is helpful and appreciated.

Connected - SOLD

Thanks to our visitors and to those that bought our artwork. We hope you enjoy it for years to come.

My biggest canvas

This year my photography and painting took a bit of a break while I worked on my largest canvas ever - my new barn.  I have always dreamed of a new barn - a space where the sights and sounds of farm life abounds.  I love looking at century old barns on the landscape and wonder about what stories the walls could tell if they could speak.

Barns have been a treasured part of our landscapes for years.  Instead of castles and forts, the legacies of the agricultural history of our country belong in farm yards where the central piece was the barn. Larger than the homes on the property, these barns were often functional and beautiful. 

The old barn we inherited on this farm was built like so many of todays farm structures - cheaply and for temporary use.  It was a pleasure to burn it down and clear the land for a new structure. And now, after months of planning and construction, the new barn is what I enjoy first thing in the morning and last thing at night.

For a great story on the barn, check out the new Island Farm and Garden magazine where it made the front cover.  And, if you are available to come and visit during the Cedar Yellowpoint Artisan Tour - Nov 15-18, 2012 - come and see the art on the walls.