Monday, December 17, 2012

Sweet Success!


Dear all,

I thought you all would be dying with anticipation, so I decided to post asap to let you know the results of our fund raising efforts. In total, the class raised a grand total of e717.50 (not including the float). So well done to all of you who participated and worked hard - it's nice know your efforts can pay off!

The first class of the second term (7th January), we will wrap things up. All remaining inventory is being stored in the Fibre Arts office. Make sure you pick up what's left, document the total remaining stock, and what you should have made in profit. We will go over this in class, as well as take a look at the inventory lists to make sure everything adds up.

As we agreed in class, those who made above the target profit (e23) will have the option to pool this money in your class fund in the bank, or request a refund from the class kitty to reimburse them for their material costs. If the class kitty holds more than the cost of your exhibition, that money can be used for framing purposes.

As always, any questions can be submitted via the comment box below.

And finally: Happy Christmas, everyone!

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Schedule for Monday

Hi all,

Remember that your 1st Term submission is due on Monday as well. You can drop them in to the resource room, in a box I will have labelled with your class, before or after your shift.

So here's the schedule for Monday:


                         Art Building                                      Main Building

10-11                  Lorna T                                             Robert V
                           Jade C                                                Ray W
                           Victoria J                                           Fiona M

11-12                 Ria K                                                 Justinas A
                          Sam K                                                Anthony B
                          Dierdre C                                            Mary W
                       

12-1                   Sean G                                               David E                                                                  
                          Fionnuala B                                       Annie Q
                          Rebecca                                             Doireann C
                          Adrian D                                            Debbie M


1-2                    Ciara M                                              Vrindavna
                         Ed D                                                   Michelle C
                         Inam                                                    Emma H

2-3                    Tom C                                                Fiona G
                         Michelle S                                           Bianca K
                         Lisa Marie                                           Robert N
                         Sarah E                                               John D


Please be punctual - notice that you are all on for one hour, and that both classes are mixed, and divided between the two buildings. Divide and conquer! I have put up the excellent posters that Sean designed and printed, and I've also sent a mass email to all the teachers and admin of both buildings, so we are sure to be quite busy. See you then, and best of good fortune with your continued fund raising efforts!
                       

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Post Mingle Market Market


Hi all,

I have received confirmation from Maureen Conway to go ahead with our in house sale on Monday, 17th of December. Mags has given her permission for you to work your sales technique rather than your Critical Studies technique. I'm sure she would appreciate a thank you.

We will begin setting up at 10am, and begin packing up at 3:00pm. We'll split our stock in half so we can set up at both buildings. This is an event that people in the college look forward to, so we should do well. Having said that, if you were considering a reduction in your pricing, now would be the time to do it - as we all know, students are on a budget.

I'll post a schedule on the blog. As per usual, any questions can be sent via the blog comments box below.

I've asked Sean to modify our posters - and print 20 to hang around the college - help with this would be appreciated (the hanging, that is).

I've shown samples of your work to staff - and they're excited to see the rest!

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Mingling Ferociously....in One Week!


Hi all,

The market sale is in one week's time, and I imagine you're all as excited as I am! As promised, I am including the roster below. Remember to bring everything in on Monday for our practice set-up: your products, packaging, decorations, tape and scissors, cash box, displays, inventory lists. I am aware you still need some production time, so we will spend half the class on making, and you will have Friday for prep as well.

10:30 - 12:30,   Set - Up  
  • Dierdre
  • Rebecca
  • Adrian
  • Jade
  • Ria?
12:30 - 2:30
  • Michelle C
  • Lorna
  • Lisa Marie
  • Michelle S
2:30 - 4:30
  • Fiona
  • Mary - tinsel, fairy lights
  • Inam
  • Fionnuala
4:30 - 6:30     Wrap - Up
  • Bianca
  • Fiona - table cloth, cash box, float
  • Doirean
  • Debbie
I spoke with Rainey today, and she has logged our places near the coffee bar in her book. There is limited wall space here, as there are banners and an art installation. Tables are approx 6'x3'. Remember that I will be bringing blue tack, Roses, wrapping paper, and an electric heater should we need it. 
And finally, a clip to wrap up - note Rainey's love of Fancy Dress, inspired by Victoriana and Steam Punk:



Saturday, November 10, 2012

Proposals, Planning, and Making

Hi all,

The class has a great start on our market project. As I mentioned in class last week, we will continue our making, while discussing practical matters and planning. We will meet this week as normal, but may be able to move to another studio.

There are a couple of websites I'd like you to check out. Etsy and My Craft Portal (Irish only) are intended for inspiration and competitor analysis. Vertex 42 is an excellent source for free online downloads of excel spreadsheets and budgeting advice. We'll discuss these in class as well.

Etsy: Global Handcraft Marketplace

My Craft Portal

Vertex 42

Remember to document relevant competitor details - the designer/maker, the type of product, materials and techniques used, target market, purchase price. I will be giving you a handout in class on Monday to guide you through this process.

See you all then....

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Mid Term

Hi all,

I hope you all have enjoyed the Mid-Term break as much as I have. Now that the weekend is here, my thoughts are moving forward towards Monday....and I can't wait to see what you all have come up with for our class sale! Remember to bring in your proposals (see handout), which we will critique together.

Severija Incirauskaite-Kriauneviciene
Way of Roses
stitch on metal
The Knit and Stitch is high on my list of most anticipated yearly events, and this year, the exhibitors were exceptional. A few of my favourites? Our own Louise Boughton's mixed media work was featured on the cover of the Crafts Council's brochure, which looked nearly as good as the real thing, on display in the Crafts Council's gallery. The 62 Group was looking good with their anniversary exhibition, and then there was Mr. X Stitch's unconventional stitch witchery....speaking of which....who did not fall head over heels with Ann Small and Sue Walton's magical installations? I spied a few of you there, taking notes - good for you! It was an excellent opportunity to collect information (did someone say competitor analysis?), network, check out displays, stock up on supplies, and be inspired. 

See you all on Monday!

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Ferocious Mingle!


Hi all,

I have an exciting announcement for you. I spoke with Rainey Gibney of Ferocious Mingle, and she has confirmed that she would welcome us as vendors at her uber-cool market. If you haven't been there, you will find it across the street from NCAD at 72 Thomas Street. To get you started, have a look at their website:

http://theferociousminglemarcade.com/

The market operates from 11-6, Thursday through Sunday, and benefits from footfall of both NCAD students, and tourists en route to the Guinness Store. I have been to visit on a Saturday, and it was busy. Added bonuses for us: it's indoors, and they serve really good coffee and sweets at reasonable rates. We can rent a space for a day for 30 euro.

To secure our place, we will need to pay up front, which we should do asap. We have several options here, but if everyone is willing to pitch in e2, I can pay for and secure our place at the market. I suggest that the class rep collect money from everyone, and leave it in Marita's office for me to collect tomorrow if possible, if not - Thursday. Please contact me via the comments below, or through Orla to confirm you wish to proceed.

Regarding the date of the sale, we should definitely select a Saturday or Sunday. In class yesterday, we thought either the 8th or the 15th looked ideal.

If you haven't yet been to the market, pop in to help you prepare. Make a few notes about the space, and what you think you will need on the day. We'll go over everything in class. Look at what the other vendors are selling, what their pricing is like, and how they're set up. Take a few photos (with permission).

I hope you are all as excited as I am about this opportunity for your class - both to raise funds, and as practical experience in selling your designs. With proper planning, the day should be very enjoyable. I will, of course, be there to help and guide you all (and maybe help hawk your wares).....

Friday, September 28, 2012

Final Year!

You are all very welcome to your second and final year here at BCFE. There is not doubt that you will find this year even more challenging than the last, with the exciting finale of an exhibition of your work.

Within the context of this unit, we address the practical side of art and design practice, and this will include building an online presence. Take a few minutes to orient yourself to the blog: you will notice that posts from last years' class can be viewed below, and a list of links can be seen to the right of the posts. Tip: if you bookmark this page, it will be easier to return.  Please feel free to leave comments in the comment box below.  Once you do, I will receive an e mail notice, and will respond within a day or so.

I found the results of the survey very interesting, particularly in regard to progression aims.  The majority of you plan on applying to third level, although a few are still uncertain. None of you have ruled it out. Good for you! Over half of you expressed an interest in starting your own business, so we will look at the steps you will need to take in order to do so. Surprisingly, only one of you indicated that you did not want to start a business. A bit of uncertainty is indicated in the class response to the question of whether or not you would like to take commissions and/or apply for exhibitions and/or residencies. We will discuss these issues in due course. I'm delighted to see that all of you have computer access, but some of you could use a bit of help with a few related issues. I will endeavour to help you become more familiar and comfortable in these areas, as it's becoming more commonplace for communications to conducted via the internet.

Last week, I asked you to research an artist from the Sculpture in Context exhibition, and try to locate an artists' statement. You were to then select another artist, and write a statement as if you were the artist. This 250 word statement, typed and double spaced, will be due on Monday, 8th October, in class. I'm looking forward to reading what you've come up with!

Be sure to continually collect promotional items such as brochures, business cards, labels, packaging, literature, &etc. that you like. Right now, you are simply collecting information.  The more you gather on artists working in a direction you can see yourself going, the better.  Put all of this information in your notebook, or a folder you use for this class.

The first time we met, I asked you to write a list of ideas in your course notebook for the Christmas Fund Raiser. We will discuss your ideas in class on Monday. Remember to also print out and bring the results of your Jung Personality Test.

Take care, and see you next week!

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Hi all,

Well, I must say 'Paper Cut' looked great, and really showed your work to it's full potential. We (your tutors) were all very proud of you. Well done, everyone! I understand sales were slow this year, but it's to be expected in a recession such as this. People are being very cautious with their discretionary spending - please be assured that it's not about the work, which was at a high standard. Having said that, I know some sales were made, which is encouraging. I've always said, when the times get tough, it's time to get creative - in the full sense of the word. Think about the barter system when you can, use internet platforms like blogger and Facebook (or weebly, or other free platforms) to help you establish your on line presence, and don't give up if this is your passion! Everyone I know who has 'made it' in the arts has been persistent. They never gave up, even in tough times. You are always welcome back to the blog, to network, leave comments, or make use of the information via my 'links'.

It's been an absolute pleasure working with all of you, and I also want to express my gratitude for your kind parting gift. That was very thoughtful of you all.

Congratulations for completing your studies at Ballyfermot College's Higher National Diploma in Fibre art! All the best for your future pursuits, wherever they may take you. See you at graduation, and do keep in touch!

Monday, May 7, 2012

'Paper Cut'

Hi all,

We're nearly there! Two years of hard work, and now is your opportunity to show your work at a wonderful venue - Farmleigh Cowshed Gallery. For those of you who haven't been there before, the gallery is in a finely appointed location in the Pheonix Park. The grounds are gorgeous, and there is plenty of parking for those who are driving. I know you are all a bit nervous, but this is to be expected - remember - planning is KEY! So, please remember to get your price lists to me on Tuesday or Wednesday this week - I'll be interviewing, so you can hand them (or any outstanding work, such as CDs of your images), directly to me.  alternatively, you may email them to me. Wednesday is the last date I will accept outstanding work.

And with that, I would like to wish you all success on your special evening, and with your future! It's been a pleasure working with you all and getting to know you!

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Year End Submission

Hi all,

The end of term is in sight, and I hope you are all making the most of your Easter Break! Remember to have your submissions for Professional Practice in on Wednesday, April 18th. Any further instructions (the where and when) will be given in class on Monday the 16th. Refer to you briefs to make sure you have everything you need, and questions can be sent to me via the comment box below. All assignments for this term should be added to the file you turned in for the last submission in December. Include a disk of images of your work (20-30) with your submission.

Regarding blogs, keep in mind that I am expecting no fewer than 3 posts - they don't have to be long, ut they do need to reflect experiences from the course. Some suggestions are: Showcase, the Interview, your experience with the graphic designer, &etc. Remember to be diplomatic whilst honest about your thoughts.

The final two classes will be geared towards support for your end of year show. We will discuss pricing your items, exhibition best practice, working in public places. We will also touch upon copyright issues, as our guest speaker was unable to join us for a lecture this year. She is currently working on rewriting copyright law in Ireland. Check out her website - link on sidebar (Linda Scales).

I wish you all the very best as we wind up the NHD, and look forward to seeing your work in the beautiful exhibition space that is Farmleigh.




Sunday, March 18, 2012

Mock Interview Feedback

Hi all,

I trust you all found the Mock Interview experience helpful, at least in terms of reviewing your portfolios. I will be including individual comments with your second term feedback. With regard to common issues encountered, I would reinforce what I covered with many of you during the interview:
  • Edit and mount your work - you could combine your strongest samples in one display book or mount individually
  • Tailor your work for specific interviews - your portfolio should also reflect the course (or job) you are applying for
  • Begin with a strong image, but save your strongest piece for last
  • Try to make visual links - this could be through theme, colour, technique, etc.
  • It's okay to include work in progress, as long as not all of your work is in progress
  • Let your work do the talking (refer to handouts) don't spend too much time describing or explaining individual pieces
  •  Above all, remember your portfolio should visually communicate something about you and your work
Make certain that you are following individual instruction, and reworking your Artists Statement and CV. Keep up with your blog - I expect to see several posts between now and the end of term.  Check your brief for this term - it counts for 60% of your grade. If you have questions, or are unclear about anything, refer to your brief. If you are still unsure, ask me. Tomorrow is a bank holiday, so I will see you the following week. If you have outstanding assignments (you know who you are), please remember to bring it in on that day (the 26th).

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Mock Interviews

Hi all,

We will begin our mock interviews on Monday, 20th February (the Monday we return from mid term break). The interviews are designed to help you prepare and get organized for the real thing. Please bring with you to interview: your portfolio with finished work, work in progress, sketchbooks, samples, a CD with 20-30 images, and your CV.  If you have a copy of a letter of reference, bring that as well. If you missed the last class, be sure to watch the video clips I added to the Links sidebar. See post from 6th of Feb.  Our goal is to strengthen your presentation so you will make a strong impact in future interviews. Don't worry if you feel a bit rough around the edges now - we are in the process of working out the 'bugs'. Each student will be allocated 30 minutes. Message me if you have any conflict with your appointment, and we will make alternate arrangements. Students only need attend the time of their interview - use the rest of your time to work constructively. Class will continue as normal from Monday, 12 March.

All students need to submit the answers to their 25 interview questions on Monday, 20th Feb. I'll pop in at the end of your class with Mags to collect them.

Schedule for Monday, 20th February:
  • Merce - 2:00 pm
  • Sarah - 2:30 pm
  • Bobby - 3:00 pm
Schedule for Monday, 27th February:
  • Shauna - 2:00 pm
  • Kayleigh  - 2:30 pm
  • Aisling  - 3:00 pm
  • Emma - 3:30 pm
Schedule for Monday, 5th March:
  • Megan - 2:00 pm
  • Tara - 2:30 pm
  • Kama - 3:00 pm
  • Danielle - 3:30 pm

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Interviews

Hi all,

After discussing your schedule for the remainder of the term with Orla, we have decided to bring forward the dates for the interviews. They will begin on the Monday we return from mid term, and I would like to ask if there are any of you who would like to volunteer for that day. Those with early interviews, and those that are ready would benefit most from this schedule change. Please spread the word and contact me via the comments box below if you would like to be included in the first round, otherwise I will post the schedule on Monday.

Monday, February 6, 2012

New Links

Hi all,

The new links have been added. You will find them on the 'Links' bar to the right, and are labeled 'Portfolio Advice', and 'Burning Photos to CD'. Enjoy!

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Portfolio Preparation

Hi all,

This term seems to be absolutely flying, so make sure you keep on top of your work!

In case you missed it, last week I handed out the brief for this term, along with 'Interview Questions' you will be answering. If you didn't get the handouts, make sure you have them by tomorrow. There are 32 questions, of which you will answer 25 of your choice. Your answers should be typed and are due the week we return from mid term break. If you haven't submitted your CV or Artist Statement, please hand them in with your interview answers.

In this week's class, we will be discussing presentation. See you then.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Artists Statements

Hi all,

I trust you all gained priceless experience from your visit to Showcase Ireland. It is so encouraging to see both young and established designer/makers displaying their talents to a world wide audience. Maybe some of you envisioned your own product roll out at Showcase sometime in the future.

If you took any photos there, be sure to post to your blog.

As we prepare for our end of year show, our minds shift towards presentation and documentation. Last week, we discussed the Artists Statement, it's purpose, and how to get started on your own statement. In Monday's class we will take some time to work on these. We will also discuss the art of the interview, with a view to preparing ourselves for that nerve-wracking experience. With proper preparation, you will feel more calm and confident when walking in to your next interview.

See you all Monday.

Sunday, January 8, 2012

New Term and Vacancy at Beads and Bling

HI all,

I hope you have enjoyed your holidays, and are feeling well rested for the second term.  I have finished grading your first term submissions and will return your work tomorrow in class.

I've added a link for Showcase Ireland (see below). We will discuss this event in class, and you will all register to attend on line. It is free, and very easy.
Showcase Ireland

In other news, I stumbled upon this advert from Beads and Bling.  Maybe you or someone you know will find it useful:

Vacancy with us! 
 Fancy a role with us where you get lots of training and creative opportunities? Have you been unemployed for more than three months? We have a work placement available through FAS (and you must be currently unemployed to qualify). 
If you are interested in applying or know someone suitable then please get them to log onto the fas website and apply for our role or email Netty directly with their interest to beadsbling@hotmail.com   We provide excellent training with this internship but you must qualify under the FAS conditions for work placement.  
G