Art Opera

Mid Spring Nights Dream

2011-01-31T03:16:00.000-08:00

The itinerary is Thursday Night, Friday and Saturday April 7-9, 2011
Click Here to register!
Click on the Registration link at bottom of page to see Class Workshop and Location Photos, and Banner!

The itinerary is Thursday Night, Friday and Saturday April 7-9, 2011
Teena's Workshop

Jenn's Workshop

June's Workshop

The Teachers: Teena Flanner, Jenn Docherty and June Ann, all three are published and well know artisans who each have their own books, printed in various publications and media, tv appearances and product lines.

Thursday Night is the attendee welcome party starting at 6pm:
-Meet and Greet
-Private shopping within Piddlestixs and neighboring stores:
Piddlestixs, The Mill Antiques Center, Rose Petal Porch, Lafayette Emporium, Black Pony Antiques, all hosting late night private shopping and giveaways.
-Attendee goodie bags and fairy wings, class tickets, attendee badges, etc.
-Light fare, treats and more inside Piddlestixs

Friday:
-Breakfast/coffee/tea 8:30-9am
-Class starts at 9am til 1pm
-Lunch 1-2pm
-Surprise Guest speakers 2-3pm

Friday Night Vendor Soiree: Marie Antoinette's Garden theme
Come dressed in your soiree best, lots of pearls, rhinestones and frills.
-Book signings, vendors, etc.
-6pm-8pm, public vendor soiree
-8pm-10pm, private attendee party and vendor soiree
-Location near Piddlestixs inside a 17th century old church

Saturday:
-Breakfast 8:30-9am
-Classes 9am-1pm
-Lunch 1-2pm
-Classes 2pm-6pm

Seats are limited, first come first serve basis, maximum 45 students

The new group will open on yahoo in march, for you to host swaps, meet one another and is private only to people participating in the event.

Event banner is located on my blog as are photos of Historic Lafayette and Neighboring Stores, Piddlestixs and More: Faerie Enchantment for you to use on your blogs and sites!

as well as recommended hotels and car service. Newark airport is the recommended airport!
Hotel Recommendations:
Hilton Garden Inn Rockaway, NJ 27 miles from Newark Airport, 14 miles from Event
Newton Holiday Inn Express 40 miles from Newark Airport, 2.2 miles from Event with Complimentary Local Area Shuttle, to from event and local points (recommended)
Airport Shuttle Charge from Newark airport around $40-$60

NOTE:
There are no ala carts, each student must attend all 3 classes in order to attend the thursday night and friday night parties. There are no refunds after students register.

Click on the links below to see past events and workshops:
Art Opera
Witches Tea Party
Tinsel Wonderland
Piddlestixs

Mid Spring Nights Dream!

2011-01-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

Art Opera Yahoo Group Update!

2010-11-11T06:33:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
Just a heads up, I have closed out the Art Opera 2010 event and the yahoo group, to make way for a new year and new adventure.

Many thanks to all who supported this years event, the group, sponsorship, supplies and more. I look forward to seeing you all again and to get inspired.

Have a wonderful year!

Please note: I will periodically update this blog page with workshops and events details. Please join us everyday, at Piddlestixs located at:

12 Morris Farm Rd., Lafayette, NJ 07848
973-300-5432

See you soon!
xoxox
Lisa!

Art Opera's Queen's of the Sea Pageant!

2010-04-04T08:05:00.001-07:00

Art Opera's: Queens of the Sea Pageant!

I wish the opera was every night. It is, of all entertainments, the sweetest and most delightful. Some of the songs seemed to melt my very soul.

FANNY BURNEY, Evelina

No Opera, No Beach or Seaside event should be without a Pageant, Don't you agree? At the Art Opera Orientation Dinner Soiree, we will have just that a pageant, one filled with elegance, vintage flair and of course royalty straight from the sea, a pageant called:

The 1rst Annual Art Opera Pageant called: Queens of the Sea Pageant!

There are ten main attendee tables in which a Queen will each be chosen at random, by a seaside delegate, then they will be crowned. Later in the evening, The ten Queens will be asked to come up to the front of the room and await for the Main Queen to be announced. The final Queen will be chosen based on the attendee, teacher and guest vote, then AnnDenise Anderson of Whim and Fancy Designs will announce the Queen of the Sea, and bestow her with a crown, sash and septor that she has created for the winner.
We have had several pageant goodies made from fabulous designers for the event, these were wonderful gifts made by each, which supports Art opera and the events within it.

Art Opera: The main Pageant Goodies were made by both Whim & Fancy Designs, and A Gilded Life for Art Opera!
The 10 table crowns, pageant tickets and ballots were made by me, Lisa Kettell. The ticket glitter buckets were purchased to match the decor and theme.

Glitter wands were made by Sandy Koterba and will be randomly distributed around the room for the attendees.

AnnDenise Anderson of Whim and Fancy Designs made a crown, the dazzling vintage sash and a septor (septor not shown, pics to follow)Shea/Debbie of A Gilded Life made the other crown and the Art Opera necklace! The necklace was a surprise made for me, and is absolutely beautiful!

All 3 of these wonderful ladies hail from Texas, as do several of our Art Opera attendees, coming in for the event, as well as ladies from Arizona, California, Vermont, Rhode Island, NY, NJ, PA, CT, MA, MD and other areas.

Here I am modeling all their beautiful wares:

More pictures to follow of the complete pageant assemble with the septor, table crowns, tickets and ballots.

Art Opera: Pam Huntington's Workshop's

2010-03-30T07:25:00.000-07:00

Pam Huntington is a brilliant artist who teaches workshops across the country such as Art is You, Artfest, Art and Soul, and various other locations. That is why we are lucky to have Pam join us at Art Opera to teach some fabulous workshops:

-Victorian Parlour Bird
Pam has always been fascinated by the old Victorian Parlour's that were filled with butterflies, birds and fauna. Come join Pam and learn how to create your own Victorian Parlour filled the charm of a real one, which can sit in your studio, office or favorite location. Best part is you receive the glass dome as well, love that.

Learn vintage techniques, assemblage, while working w/vintage and new items, distressing agents and more.

Seats still available, contact me to reserve your seat, last day to guarantee your seating is April 5.

-Parlour Fairy Shadowbox
Pam creates enchanted worlds through her art, in this class join Pam on a journey into a World of Enchantment, a Flights of Fancy in Fairyland, with the Parlour Fairy Shadowbox. You create an enchanted shadowbox with a jointed winged fairy ballerina, while working with a plethora of vintage and new materials which will make the heart sing. Your final piece will have a dancing ballerina which will move up and down like your own personal theater.

Seats still available, contact me to reserve your seat, last day to guarantee your seating is April 5

Pam's fabulous kits for the 2 workshops:

Visit Art Opera Website at: www.artoperanj.com

to register for single or multi workshops
!:

Queens of the Sea Pageant at Art Opera!

2010-03-29T11:06:00.001-07:00

Art Opera: Queens of Sea Crown for the:
Queens of the Sea Pageant at Art Opera!
This crown was made by AnnDenise Anderson for the main Queen of the pageant. Each table at the dinner soiree will have a Queen chosen to represent their tables. The Queens are randomly picked by chance at the start of the evening.

Toward the end of the evening all guests will randomly write down a name of someone inside the dinner soiree who they feel should be the Ultimate Queen of the Sea. Then each table Queen will hand the written ballots to AnnDenise, who will then tally up the names and then call the winner.
This Queen will be crowned with the beautiful head piece above, followed by this gorgeous Sash and a Dazzling Septor.

The septor photos will be un-veiled soon. All three items are handmade with regal detail by AnnDenise Anderson aka Whim and Fancy Designs. AnnDenise is also teaching, sponsoring and vending at Art Opera 2010

Art Opera Spotlight: Jenny Heid and Aaron Nieradka

2010-03-23T07:29:00.000-07:00

Art Opera is happy to have Jenny Heid and Aaron Nieradka teaching workshops. They are an amazing duo who produce works that make the heart sing and dance. One of the workshops they are teaching is called: The Sweet Dreams Mobile, which just makes me want to eat cotton candy, sip of cherry slushies, eat cupcakes and ride a carousel. This project is wonderful and I'm so happy to have it being taught here at Art Opera.

There are still seats available for this workshop, visit the Art Opera Website at:
www.artoperanj.com
or contact me and let me know! Art Opera is April 7-11, 2010. The bulk of the workshops will be taking place April 8-9, with some morning classes on April 10.

Jenny Heid and Aaron's Nieradka's Classes:

Not only are Jenny and Aaron fabulous teachers, they also have a fabulous product line available such as journals and note cards. The notecards can be purchased from them or at Michael's Craft Store! Here is a sneak peak of the cards:

Vendor Soiree/Faire Mini Workshops!

2010-03-22T06:25:00.000-07:00

At Art Opera not only will there be mini workshops at the Wednesday night dinner soiree, full workshops Thursday, Friday and Saturday Morning, Demo's for attendees at Monmouth Antiques, Plum Cottage and Carla Gizzi, but mini workshops, demo's and book signings at the Vendor Soiree/Faire.

Below is a list of the vendor soiree mini workshops, make/takes and demo's which are either free or for a small fee.

Art Opera: Heidi Wallingford Workshops!

2010-03-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

First off, if you are still choosing classes, you have to see the newest picture from Heidi's Belle of the Ball Workshop, OMG, amazing, looks like I'll be joining her in this class, I have to make this doll.

The Belle of the Ball Workshop is $99, includes breakfast or lunch, and other fun surprises. Some seats still available.

Second she is teaching a mini workshop aka make/take on the Saturday part of the vendor faire at her booth, its entitled:
"Spring Dream" ~ mini shadow box Make & Take ~ $20.

You guys are going to love it. Check out her photo album in the Art Opera Yahoo Group under group photos: Heidi's Spring Dream.

Visit the Art Opera Website for photos and to register!

or My Flickr Art Opera Photo Album for more photos.

Let me know whose signing up for the workshop and/or the make-take, so I can let Heidi know!

xoxo
Lisa!

Art Opera Complimentary Workshop Schedule!

2010-03-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Art Opera is being held from Wed. April 7 through Sunday April 11, 2010 in Red Bank, NJ.

On Saturday April 10 and Sunday April 11, Monmouth Antiques, Carla Gizzi and Plum Cottage will be hosting complimentary workshops at their stores! Here is a list of those mini workshops/demo's.

Saturday April 10, 2010
Monmouth Antiques
217 West Front Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701
www.monmouthantiqueshoppes.com
732-842-7377
Time: 12:30pm
Instructor: Lisa Walsh
Subject: Antiques into Art
Description: Lisa will be giving ideas on how to recycle vintage items into fun and decorative pieces! We'll also share ideas on how to re-purpose antiques as storage for your studio or craft room.

Saturday April 10, 2010
Carla Gizzi
169 West Front Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701
www.carlagizzi.com
732-450-0122
Time: 1:30pm
Instructor: Carla Gizzi
Subject: Jewelry techniques
Description: Carla will be having a mini workshop/demo using all sorts of beads and findings Art Opera Attendees will see samples of various creations and have the option to create their own masterpieces for a small fee. New and vintage beads and assorted findings will also be available for purchase.

Sunday April 11, 2010
Plum Cottage
212 West Front Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701
732-747-5333
Instructor: Laura Kent
Subject: Textiles and Crafts (Altered Art & Textiles)
Description: From the tiniest snippet of Antique lace to yards of vintage fabric not one scrap of antique textiles should ever go to waste. Visit Laura at the Plum Cottage and learn about this precious commodity and some of the magical memories you can create with vintage textiles.

Post Three: Carla Gizzi Design and Studio

2010-03-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

Post Three of my adventure to the Antiques District in Red Bank, located on Front Street, where a lot of Art Opera happenings will be occurring. Post One showcased Monmouth Antiques, Post Two showcased Laura and Plum Cottage, right across from Cheryl at Monmouth Antiques, and today Post Three will spotlight Carla Gizzi Design and Studio located a few steps down from Monmouth Antiques.Let me just say, one glimpse into the window and I knew I had to go into this store. Peering inside gave me whimsical chills, opening the front door and I was in an enchanted world.

Carla's store offers an array of wonderful new and vintage treasures from handmade jewelry, papers, dolls, ornaments, frames, mirrors, trinket boxes to mosaic lined furniture and accessories that Carla hand applies to each one. Her store is intwined in a cupcake chic color palette mixed wit muted vintage tones, and modern bright, all of it works fabulously.Once you enter the store, you will not leave, same as Monmouth Antiques and Plum Cottage. Carla, like Laura and Cheryl will be housing mini workshops/demo's in their stores throughout the weekend of Art Opera. I will post the schedule tomorrow.For now, enjoy the photos of this fabulous store, to visit Carla, check out the website at:
http://www.carlagizzi.com
To visit the rest of the photos from the fun things happening at Art Opera this year visit:
Lisa's Art Opera Flickr Gallery

Art Opera Festivites, Post Two: Plum Cottage!

2010-03-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

Post Two of my adventure to the Antiques District in Red Bank, located on Front Street, where a lot of Art Opera happenings will be occurring. Post One showcased Monmouth Antiques today I will spotlight Laura and Plum Cottage, right across from Cheryl at Monmouth Antiques.

Again, if you are not familiar with Red Bank, after Art Opera you will be. Its one of NJ's artsy areas, next to Montclair, Lambertville, and Cape May to name a few, an area filled with boutiques, antiques, cafes, restaurants, and lots of historical roots. Its an area that has a fabulous department store, reminding me of the days of vintage Macy's, Haynes, Epsteins, and Bloomingdales, Red Bank even has an Urban Outfitters and Tiffany & Co, besides being located in the scenic Jersey Shore area, Red Bank is also a train ride away from NYC 45min/1hour, with a train directly to Newark Airport as well.These are all the reasons I am hosting Art Opera in Red Bank, not to mention the support of the loving community, the visitors center and my friends at: Monmouth Antiques, Plum Cottage and Carla Gizzi, these ladies have helped me tremendously. Cheryl (Monmouth Antiques) has organized the Friday night Art Opera Attendee/Guest party at the Antiques Center w/food, refreshments, surprises/giveaways and shopping discounts for our attendees, starting around 7pm, Friday April 9, 2010.

Laura of Plum Cottage will be vending at the vendor faire, hosting a workshop/demo at Plum Cottage and joining us at the Dinner Soiree. She has been collecting fabulous finds for years, which you will all be able to see and buy at Art Opera and all year long.

Art Opera Gallery Photos

A full schedule of these and all the activities will be uploaded here, on the website under articles, in the yahoo group and given out at Art Opera!

Here is a sneak peak at Laura and Plum Cottage, stay tuned for Post Three with pictures from Carla Gizzi. Post Four will have the complimentary workshop schedule!

Magic and Blessings,
Lisa!

To see the rest of the photos from Monmouth Antiques, Please visit the Art Opera Flickr Gallery Site, by clicking below:

Art Opera Activities! Post 1: Monmouth Antiques

2010-03-07T05:07:00.000-08:00

Early last week I headed down for a bunch of meetings in Red Bank to get some things organized for Art Opera, After wards I went down to visit Cheryl, Laura and Carla on Front Street which is the heart of the Antique district in Red Bank, around the corner from the Oyster Point and Molly Pitcher, where the Art Opera is being held!If you are not familiar with Red Bank, after Art Opera you will be. Its one of NJ's artsy areas, next to Montclair, Lambertville, and Cape May to name a few, an area filled with boutiques, antiques, cafes, restaurants, and lots of historical roots. Its an area that has a fabulous department store, reminding me of the days of vintage Macy's, Haynes, Epsteins, and Bloomingdales, Red Bank even has an Urban Outfitters and Tiffany & Co, besides being located in the scenic Jersey Shore area, Red Bank is also a train ride away from NYC 45min/1hour, with a train directly to Newark Airport as well.
These are all the reasons I am hosting Art Opera in Red Bank, not to mention the support of the loving community, the visitors center and my friends at: Monmouth Antiques, Plum Cottage and Carla Gizzi, these ladies have helped me tremendously. Cheryl (Monmouth Antiques) has organized the Friday night Art Opera Attendee/Guest party at the Antiques Center w/food, refreshments, surprises/giveaways and shopping discounts for our attendees, starting around 7pm, Friday April 9, 2010.What a great way to start the weekend at Art Opera, keeping all our attendees and guests together and giving them a world of magic, art and fun, on a Friday Night. Cheryl has even printed hundreds of Spring Fling and Art Opera postcards, Spring Fling totes for giveaways, has antique/art gift baskets, brought stuff in to fill the shopping palette of the guests to search through and buy w/discounts. She has even worked with Laura and Carla to provide free workshops over the weekend for attendees and guests to attend, after the shop at the vendor fair, before they shop or after. In the last of this 4 part post, I will add the complimentary Art Opera Workshop Schedule hosted by:

-Monmouth Antiques
-Plum Cottage
-Carla Gizzi

These are in addition to the free make/takes, mini workshops at the Art Opera Vendor Faire. So please attendees and guests wear your name badges so they know who you are.
A full schedule of these and all the activities will be uploaded here, on the website under articles, in the yahoo group and given out at Art Opera!

I had to snap some sneak peaks of Monmouth Antiques for all of you to enjoy and get excited over when you arrive. Tonight I will start post two with pictures from Plum Cottage and Post Three with pictures from Carla Gizzi. Post Four will have the complimentary workshop schedule!

Magic and Blessings,
Lisa!

To see the rest of the photos from Monmouth Antiques, Please visit the Art Opera Flickr Gallery Site, by clicking below:
Art Opera Flickr Gallery

DMC Embroidery, Art Opera Sponsor/Group Workshop!

2010-03-05T04:23:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,

I am happy to announce, that Art Opera welcomes the amazing, brilliant, DMC Embroidery to Art Opera. That's right the makers of the finest threads, embroidery and stitching supplies to Red Bank. On Wednesday April 7, 2010, DMC staffers: Allison and Liz will be on hand to demonstrate a fabulous project to attendees and guest of the orientation dinner soiree which kicks off the Art Opera festivities.

They will be creating kits for the attendees filled with their new COLOR INFUSION THREADS, Can I just say I have seen them at CHA this past January and these threads are to swoon over, the colors are extraordinary and the threading is over the top, just like everything they produce. Visit their amazing blog for the latest info from them at:
http://dmc-threads.com

I have been a sewer since I was 4 or 5 years old (children's kits then, lol). Now sewing is a favorite for me, creating hand drawn patterns, paper transfers, scrapbook layouts, pin cushions and crowns help me to stay inspired. I've been working on a fabric and cross stitch fairytale altered book for 10 years, sewing in it when ever I can, filling in details and some applique, when complete I will share with you.

There are still a few seats available for the Wednesday night dinner soiree and some of the workshop spaces, if you are interested in attending please visit the website:
www.artoperanj.com

We look foward to seeing you at Art Opera, I know I can't wait to have fun and create with DMC and see all you!

xoxo
Lisa!

Lantern Collecting, Crepe Paper, Diana, Joan, Me!

2010-03-03T20:55:00.001-08:00

Me and Diana
Art Opera is working hard everyday to bring its attendees, guests, friends, sponsors, instructors and vendors a wonderful time. There are several steps to achieving magic within an event, no matter if you have 2 guests, 22 guests or 200 guests, your event has to be filled with an ambiance and warmth that your guests will never forget, that first step is location, the next food, followed by ambiance.
Diana
The theme of Art Opera 2010 is Vintage Coney Island and Seaside Flapper. What does that mean? To me that means, Luna Part, Dreamland and Dreamland 2 amusement parks that were located within Coney Island at the Turn of the Century. These parks were filled with ornate and whimsical buildings, fantasy themed shows, amusements and seaside elegance. Carnivals, bathing pavilions, delicious food fares and sweets such as likers (small ice cream shots), candy apples, taffy, cotton candy and more.

Lanterns and lights could be see in every inch and corner, a Trivoli Gardens effect. Trivoli Gardens is still around today, the oldest amusement park in the world, located in Copenhagen Denmark. I want to bring this magical world to you, to create this world will take lots of lights, lanterns, Chinese parasols, carnival candies, a seaside pageant and more.
The colors are similar to salt water taffy, a cupcake chic color palette filled w/seer sucker striped prints, pinks, aquas, robin eggs blue, lemonade yellow, sea foam green, sugar plum purple, sweet peach and creamy whites.
candy containers
To start, all the lanterns have been picked, ordered and fluffed for their journey to Red Bank, Chinese parasols have been created, glitter buckets decorated and crepe paper crimped. Diana and I pleated yards and yards of pastel crepe paper for the Art Opera Favor/Pre-Party where some of the committee and attendees will meet and help to assemble to attendee boutonaires. The main base of the boutonaires are provided by AnnDenise Anderson, which she cut from chipboard in the form of Ice Cream Cones and Sundaes. The Candy Cones for the tables and the Seaside Pageant Crowns have become to be created.
Stay tuned for the pics from favor/pre-party March 6, stay tuned for the photos from the shoppes participating in the Art Opera Shop Walk, the art opera affiliate workshop schedule and more surprises.

Magic and Joy,
Lisa!
and the Art Opera!

The Slice Machine: Art Opera Demos/Giveaways!

2010-03-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

Hello Art Opera Fans, Friends, Guests and Attendees!

Making Memories has graciously sent us a Slice Machine and Cartridges for Art Opera. We will have Making Memories Giveaways throughout the event, along with product demo's.

Are you familiar with a Slice? if not after Art Opera you will be, this machine comes in two cupcake chic colors: Baby Blue and Pink, both the same and both wonderful. The machine uses small cartridges the size of a digital camera card, to upload a variety of designs. Each Cartridge has a design pack built into it for use.

Once you insert the cartridge you are off and running. The ones we received are over the top amazing! We have one set filled w/frilly frames, silhouettes, and frou frou, the other more grungy cool with tags, lettering and borders.

Both these cartridges will be shown at the Vendor Faire April 10-11, 2010. You will see how to use the machine and its various ideas, and get some fabulous cutouts to take home with you to use in your scrap booking and paper arts.

After seeing this machine you'll want one too. Get giveaway tickets for some cool Making Memories products and supplies.

See you soon!
Lisa!

Art Opera Swaps!

2010-03-01T05:18:00.000-08:00

New Swap: Sweet Shoppe ATC!

Think: Cupcakes, Tarts, Pies, Cakes, Wedding Cakes, Birthday Cakes, Cookies, Sugar Cookies, Lollipops, Ice Cream: Cones/Sundaes, Chocolate, Hearts, Lintzer Tarts, Candy/Jelly Apples, Bubble Gum, PopTarts, Opera Cake, Cotton Candy, Soda Pop, Soda and Milk Shakes, Cherry Desserts, Blueberries, Blue Raspberry, Key Lime Pie, Donuts, Twizzlers, Smarties, Gumdrops, Sugared candies, heart and swedish fish, Hersey, Godiva, Ladure, Vintage Bake and Confectionary Shoppes, 1950s Soda Shops, 5 & 10's, 1900's Coffee and Cake Cafe's, the list goes on.

Sign up deadline for Art Opera Attendees: March 10, 2010

Art Opera Attendee Pick up date: April 10, 2010

2 for 2 swap, make 2 get 2
I will assign your partners on March 11, 2010

-You may sign up here as well, or contact me directly!

This is open to the faerie zine and art opera members as well.

-Those coming to Art Opera, will be kept together as partners so they may pick up their swaps at the event, all others will be paired accordingly and you will mail to your partner. The deadline for Non-Art Opera Swappers is May 15 in which you will mail your atc's to your partner.

-There are several swaps going on in the Art Opera Yahoo Group, so come and join us at the Art Opera Yahoo Group for some fun!

Thanks,
Magic, Blessings and Tons of Sugary Sweetness!
Lisa!

Art Opera Slice Teaser!

2010-02-24T19:01:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

Another fabulous teaser for you! Making Memories is sending A slice machine/goodies for Art Opera, that's right a Slice machine, that incredible cutting companion!

Before going to CHA I was familiar with the slice, but leaving there I became in love with it. The creating possibilities are endless, where ever your imagination can take you!

We will have a Slice station set up at the Vendor Soiree at Art Opera. This part of the event will be held for two days at St. Anthony's Hall near the Train Station in Red Bank, NJ. We will have demo's using the Slice and free Make/Takes using Making Memories items and other fun treats.

Visit the artoperanj.com website by Friday to learn more about the vendor faire admission tickets and promo codes you can bring to the door for discounts.

Here are some photo's of the Slice and Me!

Art Opera Teaser! Group Night Guest!

2010-02-19T18:21:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

Art Opera has alot of surprises in store for you, every day/night of the event. I'm going to announce another Art Opera Teaser.

Orientation night will have a few incredible surprises, one of them is a group kit from Nancy, owner and creator of Parcel.
Notice the vintage circus animal toys, Parcel has loads of them perfect for the circus toy project from my book: Altered Art Circus!
Many of you have signed up for full registration which includes your orientation dinner and extravaganza. We have a few guest speakers and sponsored mini workshops lined up for orientation and at the vendor soiree as well.

One of the guest sponsors and designers slated for the Wed. Nite Orientation is: Nancy, the owner/creator of Parcel located in Montclair, NJ.

Nancy will be including a special project kit in your goodie bags which she will instruct at Art Opera, along with the preview of her new design line which will be available from her and in craft/paper stores across the country this spring, which I will unveil snippets here and there so you can really get excited, along with other fun surprises.
This is the website!
www.shopparcel.com

If you are not familiar with Parcel, well then you should, it is like a Tinsel Trading in Montclair, NJ, with sweet magic and mystery lurking on every shelf and corner. Nancy has been featured in Country Living and a variety of publications.

Are you excited yet?????? I know I am!
What better way to be at Parcel then to see Nancy and meet up with fellow art opera gals: Diana (Vintage Blue Studio), Marlene (Miss Bee), Joan (Art Opera Instructor) and myself!
Me and Nancy!
Miss Marlene
Joan and Diana
Nancy and Vanessa

Joan and Marlene holding Parcel previews....We'll see you at ART OPERA!

Note: There is still time to register for classes, take advantage of the Art Opera Workshop Promo Specials, register for alacart, full package, sign up for free and paid for make-takes, mini workshops, enter your chance for giveaways (win making memories goodies, artisan goodies and more)Scrapbook demos, meet handmade artists, etsy artisans and book signings at the vendor soiree, be queen of your own pageant with the Art Opera Siren Pageant, and nominate your favorite stars of the year with the Art Opera Awards, dive into fabulous goodie bags and more!

http://www.artoperanj.com
to register

Art Opera Awards!

2010-02-16T18:43:00.000-08:00

The time has come to begin the Art Opera Awards! Several awards will be given out to the winners during the Orientation Dinner. Its my version of the Oscars, Emmy's, Golden Globes, etc. This time its for the Art Industry. I hope to grow these awards as time comes, but for now its our 1rst Annual Art Opera Awards, the categories are:

1. Life time achievement Award ( this has already been selected and will be kept a secret until the day of the event ).
2. Leading Jewelry Artisan (Vintage, Wire, Soldered, Steam Punk)
3. Best Mixed Media Illustrator
4. Most Creative Versatile Artist
5. Most Inspiration New Artist
6. Leading Doll Artist
7. Best Blogger and Hopper ( Most blogged posts, and blogs hopped by this individual)
8. Most Eco-Friendly Artist of 2010
9. Paper Artist of the Year
10. Most accomplished Artisan of 2010

All these awards need nominees, email/contact me for your nominees. You can copy/paste this list in an email to me, and I will add their names to the ballots, 2 weeks before the event, each category will be narrowed down to 3 names each, which will then be decided the night of orientation by the final Attendees!

Good luck to all, enter your votes only one time per person!

See you soon!

Magic and Joy,
Lisa!

Art Opera Workshop Spotlight: AnnDenise Anderson

2010-02-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

Today I'd like to introduce you to another Workshop Instructor at Art Opera, AnnDenise Anderson akak Whim and Fancy Designs.

AnnDenise will be flying here to NJ, all the way from the middle of Texas, bringing us her incredible talents.

AnnDenise is teaching a variety of workshops, including a mini workshop at the vendor soiree.

Here are the highlights of her workshops:

Victoriana Top Hat Workshop:
In this workshop learn a variety of techniques. AnnDenise will show you how to manipulate chipboard by sculpting it into a hat shape, learn millinery and vintage art design, crepe paper concepts, and bodice stitching which you can re-create in other projects you may develope. Be introduced to light sewing/stitching, learn how to mix various materials and develope the inner Victorian in you.
Regal Coral Crown Workshop:

Have you ever sculpted with crepe paper? Have you ever made a crown that looked like it came straight from a fairytale story? Then this is the workshop for you. AnnDenise will share her crepe paper secrets and crown making skills with you in this class, which you can duplicate into other crowns and projects.

AnnDenise will also be teaching the workshop:
Acrylic Liboretto Book, in this class you will learn creative book binding techniques and instruction, learn how to work with acrylic board and create keepsakes and art journals for years to come, along with a variety of other techniques.

AnnDenise is also teaching a mini workshop Cockade Boutonnieres!

For more information on registering for any of AnnDenise's Workshops visit the Art Opera Website: www.artoperanj.com for additional information please contact me!

Also to stay updated on the most current Art Opera Info, Swaps, etc. Join the Art Opera Yahoo Group!

Magic and Joy,
Lisa!

Art Opera Updates!

2010-02-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

If you haven't joined the Art Opera Yahoo Group Yet, come on by and join, take part in swaps, meet new friends, attendees, instructors, see new releases for the event, more photos and stay up to date on all the latest news!

I'll be back tommorrow with another artist spotlight, more news on the giveaways and more surprises!

Have a magical night!
xo!
Lisa!

Art Opera Spotlight: Polka Dot Pixie!

2010-02-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

Meet another one of the Art Opera Instructors: Polka Dot Pixie aka Jenny Hernandez!
Jenny is flyng up to NJ all the way from Arizona to teach two incredible workshops called: The Inner Fairy and The Blissful Bluebird!

In these workshops you will learn a variety of techniques that Jenny Uses to create these projects from doll making, clay, sculpting, beeswax, assemblage and more. I have long been a fan of Jenny's works and I'm happy to have her teach at the Art Opera in NJ.

The Inner Fairy:

The Blissful Bluebird:

To sign up for Jenny's workshop (s) or to sign up for the art opera full package visit our main site:

www.artoperanj.com

Art Opera: Free Circus Cart Make/Take!

2010-02-06T16:22:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
Another Make/Take added to the rolster at Art Opera. This one is a circus cart/shadow box make and take hosted by me! This will be a free make/take and limited to 20 students.
To sign up contact me through email or leave a comment on this post.

Date and times will be announced soon!

This project was inspired from a project in my book: "Altered Art Circus" called Circus Carts. This is a new version using clay techniques and a vintage meets magical color palette with pastels and piano papers.

Learn basic box assembling, light doll making, assemblage, altered art and clay techniques. Each student will receive a pre-assembled kit w/pre-made box, doll, and papers. The make/take will last between 1 hour and 1 1/2 hours. If you need to leave earlier, you can finish your box at home.

More info in the Art Opera Yahoo Group!
Have a Magical Saturday,
Lisa!

Art Opera Workshop Spotlight: Ruth Rae!

2010-02-04T10:19:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
I wanted to take the time to showcase the wonderful workshops being offered at Art Opera, today's spotlight is on: Ruth Rae and her three amazing workshops being offered at Art Opera:

-Legacy Keepsake Album
-Forged Talisman Jewelry
-Fused Jewelry

The Legacy Keepsake Album:

Forged Talisman Jewelry:

Fused Jewelry:

To sign up for any of these workshops as or to purchase a full art opera package visit:
www.artoperanj.com

Note: The January Promo sale has been extended til Mid February! Take advantage of the huge savings!

Magic and Joy,
Lisa!

Papier Cockade Boutonniere!

2010-02-01T18:08:00.000-08:00

New to The Art Opera Fun, a mini workshop called:

"Papier Cockade Boutonniere" which will be taught by AnnDenise Anderson,one of the Art Opera Instructors.

Mini Workshop Info:

Date: Saturday April 10, 2010 at the Vendor Soiree

Time: Will be announced closer to the event

Limited: 20 people

Sign up: Email me your name to sign up

Payment: $20, paid directly to AnnDenise, at the start of the mini workshop

Mini Workshop Length: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

Stay tuned for many more mini workshops, make/takes and demo's, some are free, and some have small price fee's ranging from $10-$35

Any questions, please ask!

Magic and Joy,

Lisa!

Art Opera Giveaway!

2010-01-31T08:09:00.000-08:00

Art Opera Giveaway and Free Collage Sheet for all who participate!

Welcome to the first annual Art Opera Giveaway!

For this giveaway, I have decided to give away 7 grandprizes, this gives Art Opera Attendees and Newbies a chance to win a class or extra class, plus winning a piece of artwork from me, plus I am including a free collage sheet in this post for every visitor to save to their computers and use in their works, that way no one leaves empty. Giveaway begins on Jan.31 at 1pm-Ends Feb. 21 at 1pm Eastern Standard time!

Okay Many of you have heard of my art event/retreat called: Art Opera, which will be held April 7-11, 2010 in Red Bank, NJ at The Oyster Point Hotel for the main event/workshops, dinner, etc. and St. Anthony's Hall for the two day vendor soiree filled w/book signings, guest speakers, make/takes, demos, shopping and more.

If you are not aware of the event here is a brief intro:

-Art Opera, Red Bank, NJ-located 45 minutes from Newark Airport w/ direct travel to Red Bank, Less then an Hour from NYC, 1.5 to 2 hours from CT, PA, 3-4 hours from MD, DC and 5 hrs from VA, etc.

-Full registrations includes: Huge Goodie Bags from Industry sponsors, orientation dinner w/4 course meal, dessert bar, refreshments, guest speakers, group projects, a fantasy ambiance, overlooking the navesink river, 4 workshops, vendor soiree tickets, breakfast, lunch, prizes, and lobby make/takes in between classes, party toast at antique center, book signings, demos and more.

All workshops over look the Navesink River, perfect for inspiration and serenity.
-Ala Cart includes 1 workshop of choice, breakfast or lunch, vendor soiree ticket, giveaway ticket, make/takes, demos and more.

-Instructors:

-Ruth Rae, Traci Bautista, Suze Weinberg, Jenny Heid/Aaron-Every Days a Holiday, AnnDenise Anderson, Pamela Huntington, Terri Ventura-Dimestore Daze, Jenny Hernandez-Polka Dot Pixie, Heidi Wallingford-Birds of a Feather, Joan Kettell, Kecia Deveney-Lemoncholys, Linda Hahola, and Me-Lisa Kettell

Visit the Art Opera Website for details and to join the mailing list/newsletter, sign guest book, updates and more.
http://www.artoperanj.com/

Visit the Art Opera Yahoo Group to connect with attendees, instructors, sponsors, vendors, join swaps and to have fun.

Click to join artopera

Without Further Ado, Here are the Giveaways:

1. One Grand prize winner will receive a free alacart class pack
Valued at $125, winner can choose which workshop they want!

2. One Grand prize winner will receive a free alacart class pack Valued at $125, with Me-Lisa Kettell, Any one of the two classes I'm teaching

3. One Grand prize winner will receive a free alacart class pack
Valued at $125, with Joan Kettell, Any one of the classes she is teaching

4. One Grand prize winner will receive a free alacart class pack
Valued at $125, with Ann-Denise Anderson, Any one of the classes she is teaching.

5. One Grand prize winner will receive a huge doll part pack from my Store filled w/many of my best selling doll parts valued at: $75.00

6.One Grand Prize winner will receive a Marie Antoinette Fashion Plate Collage CD filled w/Galerie Des Modes and more, images, valued: $15.00

7. One Grand Prize winner will receive to tickets to the Vendor Faire at Art Opera retail value: $16.00 for the 2

I hope that the Art Opera Giveaways will put a smile on your face, just as much as they put a smile on my to giveaway. All you need to do is leave a comment under this post, and tell me which ones you want to win or if you want to win any of them.

Good Luck to All who enter and enjoy the free collage sheet!

Magic, Blessings and Joy!
Lisa!

Here is the free Art Opera Collage Sheet, just click on it to enlarge, right click and save to computer!

Art Opera Updates!

2010-01-30T17:08:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
The Art Opera Blog has been quiet over the past few months due to the holidays, events and busy planning to make sure every attendee, instructor, sponsor, vendor and guest has a wonderful time.

Many of you stay connected to updates on the:
New Art Opera Website:
http://www.artoperanj.com/
There is currently a monthly special called The Jan. Promo Event, All full registration tickets are on sale for $435.00 from $535.00,this saves you $100
All Alacart workshop tickets are on sale for $99.00 from $125.00 this saves you $26!
There are even vendor discounts!

The Art Opera Ning Network

and now the new Art Opera Yahoo Group:

Click to join artopera

Photos showcasing the art opera can be found in three locations: On the Art Opera Main Website: http://www.artoperanj.com

On the Moonfaires World Website, under the Art Opera Tab http://www.moonfairesworld.com

and in the Art Opera Flickr Album at: Art Opera Photo Album

In these albums you will find Workshop Sample Photos, Red Bank Area Photos, Antique Centers, Oyster Point Photos and Class Room Photos.

The Art Opera Newsletter will be available to receive as of this coming Monday or Tuesday! By signing up you will receive the latest updates and insite into instructors, interviews, new sponsors, vendors, make and takes, freebies, demos and more.

Enjoy our ads and shout/outs in many of the main stream magazines such as:
Altered Arts Magazine and Where Woman Create, more to follow.

Enter the OWOH giveaway on my Faerie Enchantment Blog at:
http://www.faerieenchantment.blogspot.com by entering the giveaway you can win art opera worskhops, and many other prizes.

More updates to follow, I look foward to seeing you in April!
Magic and Joy,
Lisa!

Art Opera Supply Table and Updates!

2009-10-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

Hello All,
Some more exciting news about Art Opera, during the workshop days there will be a table with art supplies and a sign in/out sheet for attendees. If you forgot supply list items or basic supplies not available during your workshop, you many sign out for some at the supply table, then return at end of class or 2 classes, as to allow for others to do the same.

Sign out for: glitter, paints, inks, brushes, just to name a few of the supplies on hand.

The vendor faire on Saturday will be filled w/fab vendors, the complete list of participating vendors and sponsers will be posted by Jan.1, 2010.

If you are interested in sponsering supplies or goodies, please contact me!

Giveaways will be done throughout the event as well.

More updates to follow!
xo!
Lisa!

Art Opera 2010 Workshop Slideshow!

2009-09-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

Art Opera Event Details!

2009-08-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

Art Opera 2010
An art event packed with creative magic from incredible instructors, students and vendors. Come explore the Art Opera in Red Bank, NJ from April 7-10, 2010, at the Oyster Point Hotel overlooking the Navesink River.

Highlights

Fully registered students dine in an underwater fantasy world complete with mermaids, salt water taffy and cotton candy queens. Take a step back in time and en-vision Dreamland of Coney Island, Tivoli Gardens and 1920's Bathing Beauties. Exchange swap presents, explore your goodie bags, meet the instructors, guest speakers, and fellow students. Enjoy a 5 star 4 course dinner complete w/scrumptious desserts. Listen to a symphony of melodies while creating a group project.

The orientation dinner will be followed by 2 full days of classes on Thursday and Friday, w/additional Saturday Morning classes. Thursday and Friday classes include breakfast and lunch. Don't forget to explore the many artful treasures surrounding the vendor faire from some of your favorite stores and artisans.

Smile for the camera, media will be on hand to photograph the event. While in Red Bank, take advantage of the many antique stores, boutique shops, dining and entertainment all within walking distance of the hotel and other area hotels.

Staying a few days extra, take a train ride in NYC, Atlantic City or Philadelphia for some extra sight seeing, since you are near the seashore, stroll up to the beaches & go shell hunting or picture taking.

A la Cart workshops are available, but do not include the orientation dinner, or goodie bags. Breakfast or Lunch is included A la Cart workshop pricing and is minimal in price.

Art Opera can be paid off in installments. The first half of payment is required the last half can be paid off in 2-3 additional installments, full package registration only. Please email me regarding layaway at lisakettell@yahoo.com Full package registration is $535 and includes:

All Package Refunds: Full refund if cancelled by Jan.15, 2010. A 50% refund if cancelled by Jan.31,2010. No refunds after Feb.1, 2010.

-Orientation dinner and group workshop
-Full Instructor Group Meet/Greet, introduction and meet the first wave of guest speakers.
-Goodie Bags with a retail value over $350.00
-4 workshops of your choice (choice is first come first serve) If a class is sold out you may put yourself on a back-up list incase its gets offered at an additional time or on Saturday.
-Coupons and discounts from vendors and online stores, a free raffle ticket.
-Champagne welcome toast at Antique Center on Thursday Night
-More Surprises to follow

A la Cart registration can be paid in full or in two easy payments per class sign-up. A la Cart registration is $125 per class & includes the class of your choice w/either breakfast or lunch.
-Now just because you are purchasing A la Cart workshops doesn’t mean you will be alone, you can still take part in the many swaps that will be created, the raffles at the vendor faire, free demo’s, author/designer book signings and Saturday guest speakers, plus hang out w/each other in between and after classes.

Quarter Class Teaching Staff: these classes will be held throughout the day on Saturday April 10, 2010, they run between 1 hour to 1.5 hours, and are sold a la cart price & will vary from $30-50, depending on the teacher's price list.

About Art Opera, Pricing, Creation, Event Coordination!

2009-08-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
As you are now aware Art Opera Registration is now open! Now I wanted to take the time to explain to you about the event, some details, pricing, layaway, a la cart and how events work!
Everything about this event was created based on the desire and passion of having an event which has diversity, recognition, inspiration, fantasy, and artful magic, all under one roof in an area I believe was longing for it. Putting something like this together is not easy and isn't something you put together on a whim, just ask any event coordinator. These events take alot of research and careful planning, precision, organization and attention to detail are key to run/host an event like this.

You also must be considerate to your fellow artists and community and try not to run an event the same time as another, that hurts both sides of the parties, embracing one another is more rewarding. As far as payment is concerned these events are always going to be more costly then a normal workshop at an arts center, fair, store or small venue and not always will the classes be taught all day, especially when you are given the chance to learn from 4 to 5 teachers over 2 days, cutting down the time doesn't mean you are cutting down on learning or technique, but instead allowing for you to learn from more then 2 teachers.

The pricing is based on the hotel/event location, seat/place rental, teacher fees, food, supplies, electrical and other fees. These should all be considered when you are searching to host, teach or learn at an event.

The ambiance, your peers, guest speakers, food, treats and surprises are priceless, no money can mark them, these are your memories, your adventures waiting to happen, to become magic. An event is what you make of it, you could be in a room filled w/treasures or a room w/o treasures, its the company you take, good company that can make your situation shine bright
Events are investments of your time and money, but also they are good investments, a one of a kind forum with like minded people, a great source of networking, you can't beat that kind of networking and marketing. They unite us all together, a sister or brother hood of friendship and fun.

With Art Opera I wanted to do something for the tri-state to bring that artful magic to fellow neighbors and invite our out of state friends over for some fun and artful magic. With the economy up and down, I wanted to be able to offer this event as: a la cart, and w/layaway, w/multiple hotel/motel locations and near transportation routes so that everyone can have a chance to come and enjoy.

A la cart pricing is based on hotel rental, food, teacher and seat rental that is how pricing was configured for the a la cart class fees. Full registration is based on other fees.
I wanted to give you all an insight on how these things work, so that you better understand the process, and can feel more connected to it.

One more thing about Art Opera, this event will be the first to give recognition to people in our field, a thank you to the industry professionals, new comers and fans, I call this the AOA: Art Opera Awards. Ballots for voting will be posted on or before Oct.1 running through March 1....Once voting closes, the ballots will be counted and the awards given out on April 7 at orientation. If you want to recommend a person to me for AOA, email me their names.
I hope you have gained an insight and understanding of art opera and events in general, remember I am always here to answer questions!
Magic and Joy!
Lisa!

www.moonfairesworld.com to register

Tinsel Wonderland Registration!

2009-08-17T18:09:00.000-07:00

Tinsel Wonderland Workshop

Welcome to the Xmas Workshop and Artful Treasure Hunt entitled: Tinsel Wonderland, located in Historic Lafayette, NJ on Saturday December 5, 2009 inside the 1850’s Lafayette Mill Antiques Center and the Old Vaudeville Theatre!

Workshop is limited to 30-35 students only.

Theme:

Art Nouveau Victorian, Do you have an elaborate, crazy or vintage hat you have always wanted to wear? What about a frilly shirt, ruffled collar or soiree skirt, velvet pants or velvet coat, fur stoll or vintage gloves, rows of pearls, glistening crystals in red, black, clear, green or dazzling aurora, rhinestone pins or a ladies sash? Have you ever wanted to wear these timeless pieces? Then please do, I know I will, come in your vintage best, or just wear that fabulous hat or dazzling necklace, let’s set the tone for the holiday season.

Itinerary:

-Event Time is 9 am to 6pm
-Breakfast starts at 9am till 10:00am inside a quaint Anne of Green Gables Style Cafe which is known for their Gourmet and Simple Foods and is situated in the middle of numerous antique stores and across from my favorite of all: Lafayette Mill Antique Center, this place is also a favorite among other artists. Its so fabulous, that I warn you, you might night leave, the entire up stairs looks like a place straight out of a Vintage Time, filled w/secrets and magic, right out of Santa’s Toyland or Old World Storybook.

During breakfast you will be given your special goodie bags filled with project kits and surprises.

-The Workshop starts at 10:00am-2:00pm students will make a project straight out of a Tinsel Wonderland, this part of the workshop is called Santa's Toy Apothecary!

Students will make a clay/paper mache christmas tree doll with china doll head face, faux mercury glass bulbs, tinsel bulbs, tinsel sheets and tinsel treasures. You will also make an illustrated and distressed tag to go with your piece.

What you will learn:

-Doll making, clay sculpting, mold making, primitive/vintage painting techniques, how to make your own glitter and faux mercury glass. You will learn light illustration and distressing techniques as well from: Lisa Kettell, ooh that's me....

More Information:

-Enjoy hot chocolate and surprise treats as you welcome in the Christmas and Holiday Season, set inside a village straight out of Dickens Book.

-Enjoy a symphony of Christmas and Holiday music to get you in the spirit of the season.

-After Class we will begin shopping inside the Lafayette Mill Antiques Center and start Treasure Hunting, afterwards we will hit a few more antique shops all within fast walking distance.

-Dinner after the event is optional, but you are invited to tag along to the Lafayette House for dinner as well.

-There will also be some giveaways and I'll be hosting a swap or two before hand as well, again seating is limited since this is a smaller event and only for one day.

-Price for this full day of workshop, treasure hunting and surprises will be $150 registration will remain open until fill, once sold out, the next big event will be the ART OPERA April 7-10, 2010

-This workshop price also includes your project kits/material fees, so NO EXTRA material fees its all included.

Location/Directions:

Lafayette Mill Antiques Center
12 Morris Farm Road (Just off Route 15)
Lafayette, NJ 07848 (973) 383-0065
www.millantiques.com

1hour from NYC
40 minutes from Warwick, NY
1hr 15min from NJ Shore
35 Min from Morristown, NJ
35 Min from PA border (Poconos Area)
1 hr from Pa border (Allentown Area)
1 hr 15min from New Hope, Pa/Lambertville, NJ
1 hr 45 min from CT border

Please use the paypal button on the right to purchase your workshop. Contact me about paying on layaway in 3 installments of $50 at: lisakettell@yahoo.com

To pay by check or money order please contact me at: lisakettell@yahoo.com

Visit:
http://artopera.ning.com/
To join the art opera group!

Art Opera Welcome!

2009-08-17T17:42:00.000-07:00

Registration for Art Opera 2010 begins this week, stay tuned for details!

Also for 24 hour updates, art info, workshops, online workshops , events and to connect with other fabulous artists please join: http://artopera.ning.com/