Gourd Art Takes the Spotlight at A Bead or Two

Karen has been creating art from gourds for over 10 years. You can see some of her beautiful creations at the Bead or Two. On Saturday, Nov. 7, 9 am to 1 pm, Karen will be offering an Introduction to Gourd Vessels.

Students will learn to cut, shape and finish gourd vessels. You will also learn to create beautiful surface effects using paints, dyes and textural media. $35 class fee includes a clean, craft ready gourd.

"I am excited about the interest in the new gourd classes."

Call 575-3888973 to sign up.

More than Beads

Of course we have thousands of beads in every color imaginable. And, definitely we have fun charms and lots of findings for every project. But did you know we have lots of classes, too?

On Tuesday, Oct. 27 you can learn to create a Viking Knit Bracelet. Viking Knit is a technique from ancient times that remains classic and beautiful for modern jewelry design. Viking Knit will compliment your favorite beads and stones. You will create a finished bracelet that looks most luxurious.

The class is taught by Pam Bell, a wonderfully creative artist. The class starts at 9 am. $70 class fee includes some materials. Call 575-388-8973 to sign up.

Day of the Dead Mixed Media Shrine Workshop

Right around the corner is Dia de los Muertos, and we have a fun day planned on Saturday, Oct. 24th. We will be making miniature shrines to remember and celebrate the passing of loved ones. Your shrines can be made to symbolize anything, a pet from your childhood, the change of seasons, a dream or mediation. Bring trinkets, charms, and a playful spirit. Other materials and supplies will be provided. $30 ~ 9 am - 1 pm

The Day of the Dead in Mexico is a celebration of life. The memories and desires of the dearly departed are remembered on November 1st and 2nd. It is a time of fiestas and much celebration, but it is also a reflective time of great faith in the afterlife. Through out Mexico there are many celebrations in homes and in cemeteries where the dead are remembered with food and prayers. Altars are important elements to the celebrations and on these altars are kept the photographs, holy icons and food the departed loved best in life. Altars dedicated to the memory of children are adorned with toys and sweets. The whole family gathers together at the cemetery or the family altar and remember all those people who they have loved in life but are now gone. El Dia de los Muertos is not meant to be a scary time but the one time in the year when the spirits of departed family return for a visit and share with the living a little bit of life's pleasures.