January 14, 2012 - Finally we make our way to the Frangipani Gallery, owned by Painting Artist - Fran Decker.
Today, heading up the shop is Stained Glass Artist - Wendy Jekel. As has been the case with each gallery we've visited, especially the Co-op galleries, the Artist/Sales rep. is wonderful to talk to. With their vast knowledge of not only their own works, but that of the other associated artists.
Wendy, who when not creating fine stained glass panels, moonlights as a commercial diver around the Keys. Wendy uses a technique called the Tiffany copper-foil method. On the Frangipani Gallery website, Wendy states that she uses this method as opposed to the lead technique because it allows for finer detail and is much stronger. Wendy's mother, now in her 80's introduced Wendy to the art of stained glass. By the way, her mother still creates stained glass art as well.
Then we were really captivated with the wire crochet Jewelry of Kathy Timberlake. In fact last year, my wife purchased one of Kathy's bracelets (pictured) during our gallery tour. Well we are still quite impressed with her ability to match the metallic shine of crochet wire with whimsical findings including buttons and beach glass that she picks up here and there. And we also really like her unique crochet wire lampshades with the same type inclusions. Very cool. Hoping to have her in the Brothers Handmade store one of these days (hint-hint).
Equally eye catching were the vibrant seascape watercolor paintings of Christine Black. Very calming and beautiful.
We also were quite impressed with the Raku sculpture of pottery artist Steve Hoppough. His Raku vases built around contrasting scenes are spectacular.
Another really cool ceramic sculpture was this Raku octopus built by Potter - Will Fernandez. Wendy described how Will uses paper like products to support protruding elements of his sculptures while he is forming the wet clay. Then how these temporary supports simply burn off during the firing process leaving wonderful 3-dimensional forms. Great artistry.
Well this trip barely scratched the surface of great studios and galleries. I need to plan out another trip and experience some of the many outdoor sidewalk and open studio events.
I highly recommend checking out The Studios of Key West catalog which can be found at: www.tskw.org. Here you'll find a complete list of Artists, Crafters, Studios, Galleries, and Events of Key West.
Folks, the most unbelievable things are at your local fine art or craft shows if you just have a look. Also visit Brothers-handmade.com often, and
"Come See What Amazing Things Your Neighbors (like Wendy Jekel) Are Making"©
Sometimes you won't believe your eyes.
-Rob