December First Friday was last night and I really can’t believe that we are this close to Christmas. I haven’t done a single thing to get the house ready. Haven’t bought any presents. I used to do this all by Halloween! Those were the days.

I have been reading about how we can really help to improve our local economy by supporting local small businesses. And then if we buy items made in America, we can help the job situation in our country. I heard that if every family spent at least $64 on items made in America, over 200,000 jobs would be created.

I know it is hard to even find things made in America–especially if you are shopping for a TV or some type of electronics. But if you shop in SENTOSA, everything is made in Amarillo-made in Texas–Made in America. You really don’t have to look that far. I even use paint that is made in America. I buy as many of my supplies as possible in Amarillo and use a local frame shop for framing.

Everything is unique–truly one of a kind–made by the hands of me, a local artist. If you want to shop local and shop small, you’ve found the right place–SENTOSA, #102 in the East Wing of The Galleries at Sunset Center. You can also shop online. I’ll do free gift wrap for all purchases–and I make beautiful presents. I don’t think you’ll find anyone that can beat my artistic wraps! I’ll even deliver if it’s on my way home–and I go past most of Amarillo on my way to Canyon from Sunset! So if you are looking for convenience and special gifts, think SENTOSA.

When I think of presents that mean the most, I think of things that people bought or made for me that might not have been on my wish list, but were special presents that became real treasures. If  you are looking for that kind of gift, please give me a chance to help you find it in Sentosa.

How about a special Christmas painting–I have a few! Santas, Poinsettias, and even a beautiful scene of Canyon Road in Santa Fe. Santa is looking through one of my painted windows at a beautiful Christmas tree to see if the kids in the house are being nice or Naughty–maybe checking out the adults, too! My pottery would make beautiful gifts if you are looking for something for friends or coworkers or your child’s teacher. I have some fiber arts– beautiful scarves and shoulder bags. If you are looking for handbeaded jewelry, I have some beautiful Swarovski crystals that you can’t find just anywhere mixed with turquoise and silver that will become heirlooms for your friends and family.  So give me a call and come by. 806 676.1733–I’m at the gallery almost every afternoon. But it’s always a good idea to call first.

I painted this great little poodle today. I think she turned out great!

I’ve got a couple of commissions to finish up before Christmas. Then I’ll be out beating the bushes to get a few last minute items– or maybe a lot of last minute shopping. I have a few things in the gallery that will be gifts for family, but I just can’t make a gift for everyone–believe me I try!

I don’t know if you are aware that communities all over our country are organizing Art Walks from Florida to California and everywhere in between. It is really an interesting phenomenon. I’ve been thinking about why this is happening and what the benefits of attending really are. Here are a few reasons that I think people attend art walks–and in particular the First Friday event at Sunset Center every month.

1. ART-I hope that the main draw for you to come to Sunset Center and visit my gallery SENTOSA is the ART. It’s important to me to have a variety of new paintings each month. I hope you enjoy seeing the new works in S.
2. VARIETY-In SENTOSA you will see a variety of styles and subjects and mediums. I mostly paint in oils–but I also do hand built pottery, fiber arts, jewelry and decorative painting. Be sure to look in my office and both of the gallery rooms for a variety of art. The artists in Sunset are all so different and so is their art. We have many different mediums and styles. There is something for everyone!
3.  All the ARTISTS are there-On any given day at any time during the work day you will find several artists at Sunset working in their studio/galleries. But you will also find several galleries closed. Even though I try to be in SENTOSA every afternoon Monday through Saturday, lots of things come up that keep me away.  Artists have to work to create and sometimes it cannot be done do at Sunset. SometimesI am in the Canyon painting.  Weyman Brown has to get out and dig up mesquite stumps to take back to his shop to turn into beautiful bowls and vases. Some artists are out taking photos on location. I’ve been gone for over a week–had out of town company and then went to visit the grandchildren in Missouri. But on First Friday–most are of us are in our galleries ready to talk to you about our ART! I don’t know about you, but I love to visit with the artist about their styles and techniques and the story behind their work. 1st Friday is your opportunity to do just that! Be sure to ask me any questions about the story behind a painting or what made me want to paint it or just how I did it.
4. Support your local small businesses. There is so much talk about  imported goods and products. You can hardly find anything that is really Made in the USA. Well, everything in SENTOSA is made by me! And almost everything at Sunset is made locally by a local artisan. A few galleries represent artists from other parts of the country. But you don’t have to worry about the money you’re spending going to manufacturers overseas. It will stay right here in our community. So every
5. It’s FUN! Art Walk really is fun. Not a month goes by that I don’t see someone that I haven’t seen in years. It’s the social event of our community every month. Your FRIENDS are there. You should be too–having fun!
6. It’s an opportunity to NETWORK-meet new friends and make contacts. Those relationships can be important to you. Life is all about building relationships!
7.  There is ENTERTAINMENT–a variety of musicians and performers can be found throughout the mall.
8. Get CREATIVE. It’s a great way to get your own creative juices flowing. For me, visiting galleries and talking to artists is a great way to get a little inspiration, think of new ways to do my art and try something totally different. It makes me more creative! I visited a couple of galleries in Wichita KS on the way home yesterday–but I’ll tell you something–not one of them compared with the Galleries at Sunset!
9. BEAUTY–The mall is a beautiful place. Starting with the sculpture garden–beautiful in every season and then as you move into the mall the plants are gorgeous–but the real stars are the galleries and the works of art adorning every nook and corner. Every artist has made their gallery their own. It displays the art and personality of the real artist within. Inside and out–Sunset is a beautiful  space to visit.
10. Support the local ART community and CULTURE of the panhandle by purchasing art from local artists. Sometimes local artists are taken for granted. Art doesn’t have to be created by someone far away to be worth buying. Many of the artists in Sunset are represented in galleries throughout the country. But our own local collectors don’t realize what they have in their own backyard!  Some of our artists have not yet developed a following, so you can make a purchase that may go up in value as that artist becomes well known. You can get some great deals on original art at Sunset! The ELEVENS are great example of that. You can purchase an original oil painting for $111 in SENTOSA. Now that is a deal!
11. First Friday Art Walk is FREE.  There’s no cover charge–you don’t have to pay to enjoy the arts at Sunset. You will find entertainment and refreshments around every corner. The only thing you have to pay for is the art you take home with you.

This diptych is actually 2 of the ELEVENS for July–and they are available. They can be framed together or separately–and they could also be purchased and hung separately. Here are all of the eleven paintings for July!

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#1 “Crockett’s Woodpecker”, #7 Summer Sunflowers, and #11 East Texas Wildflowers are already sold. If you see a painting you are interested in, just send an email to marsha@marshaclements.com or give me a call at 806 676-1733. Each painting is 11″ x 11″ and sells for $111. I have frames–black floating frames for an additional $25. If you live in Texas, you have to pay sales tax. I will invoice you on Paypal and make arrangements for shipping when I talk to you.

Figurative

3 Photos

Landscape

10 Photos

Animals

9 Photos

Floral - Still Life

15 Photos

Architectural

6 Photos

Christmas

16 Photos

Abstract

4 Photos

Archived Works

14 Photos

I find the true essence of the image the medium–the colors, the brush strokes, the textures. I paint a variety of subjects because I tend to embrace the beauty around me whether it is the joy of a child feeding the ducks, the radiance of a sunset, or an afternoon mountain shower in a beautiful landscape. In every successful painting, the viewer sees a story, experiences the passion, remembers the smells and tastes of the spices, and feels the power and emotions of that moment in time.

I have these beautiful heart shaped nesting bowls ($29.95). They would make a beautiful addition to any home. Serve her breakfast in bed on Valentine’s Day–great for fruit, creme brulee oatmeal, or plain old Cheerios! She’ll think of you every time she uses them!

Or how about this beautiful lacy platter ($17.95)?

–just right for a few Valentine Cookies!

I also have several scarves and neckwarmers–Even though we missed out on last week’s winter blast–this winter’s not over yet and this beautiful shawl will wrap her in warmth and put a gleam in her eye. All of these gifts are one of a kind–hand made fiber arts and pottery.

You can find some beautiful jewelry and paintings, fountains and dollcases! Love is in the air–so don’t think about fighting the traffic all over town–I’ll do a beautiful artistic gift wrap and your Valentines will feel so special! You can find something special for just about anybody that you want to treat on Valentine’s Day at SENTOSA. If you need a little bird to put a bug in your Valentine’s ear about something you need from SENTOSA, give me a call–I know a little bird–she just needs your Valentine’s name and number and a little info about what it is you just can’t live without in SENTOSA!

Gallery Hours

I am trying to set up some regular hours for the gallery to be open. I go up there almost every day, but there are times I have to be out painting or an appointment with a client–lots of different things. The best thing to do is just call me ahead of time. If I can, I will meet you at Sentosa-#102 in The Galleries at Sunset just about any day at any time. And if you just dropped by–chances are I would be there, but it is always to your advantage to call first, 806 676-1733. I may be there and be in the back working or in Amarillo Art Institute working on something–you just never know about me. If the gate is up, I’m usually around Sunset somewhere.

I don’t always open on Sundays and Mondays, but every other afternoon, I’m working at Sunset. So I guess my gallery hours are:

Tues-Thur 1:00-6:00 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays 1:00-5:00 p.m.

1st Friday Art Walk–5:00-9:00 p.m. every month

I may be there in the mornings and on Monday, and even on these days during these hours–something may come up–You know the reputation we artists have–so I guess hours could be: By Chance or Appointment? Give me a call and you won’t be taking that chance on being disappointed.

Newest Projects

I am working on a painting that will be a donation for auction at the 2nd Chance Prom, Springtime in Paris, benefitting Martha’s Home in April. This nonprofit provides shelter for homeless women and children. They rehabilitate the women, help them find jobs and a home. It is a wonderful opportunity for me and the lucky buyer to help this charity that does so much for those less fortunate.The painting is a large oil on wood panel of a Paris street scene with flower vendors, a cafe and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. I will be working as a Paris street artist during the event. It sounds like a lot of fun with a great silent and live auction, dance contest, caricature artist, and food! For more information: Call Panhandle Tickets or Martha’s Home

I’ve got some beautiful pottery that I am working on including some large decorative bowls, mugs and brush holders. I really enjoy carving on the clay to create a unique texture. I have another painting of Sorenson’s Point in Palo Duro Canyon started and a couple of portraits of children. I’d love for you to come by and visit me in Sentosa at Sunset–just give me a call, 676-1733, and I’ll meet you there!

Marsha Clements-Artist SENTOSA, #102 Sunset Center

806 676-1733 http://marshaclementsart.com/

I’m celebrating more than the holidays! As of this week, I have completed my last teaching assignment. I have been an educator for many years, first teaching kindergarten, and first through third grades for over 21 years. I have spent almost as many working with teachers, schools, and districts as a professional development consultant. And for the last three years, I have taught drug resistance strategies to seventh graders in Amarillo Independent School District.

Starting this week, I am now focusing most of my time on my new career as a professional artist. I have opened Sentosa–a beautiful gallery at Sunset Center in Amarillo. I will be painting and promoting my art most of the time. I have an office in my gallery and I will work part time with Mission: Freedom’s Children. Mission: Freedom’s Children recognizes the exhaustive role that families play throughout the recovery process. From financial and emotional support to long-term care, family members step up to provide the necessary care, often with little thought for their own needs. Children often suffer in silence because of the hardships endured by their parents. Mission: Freedom’s Children seeks to alleviate the burdens of these children through education, counseling, and other forms of support. I will be the administrator for this nonprofit foundation on a part time basis.

I’m so excited to be starting a new chapter in my life. I hope all of you will help me celebrate this milestone this weekend at Sentosa–#102-in the east wing of Sunset Center, 3701 Plains Blvd. in Amarillo. This Holiday Celebration will be from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday afternoons November 20th and 21st.

We will have refreshments and a little sale at Sentosa. Any original work in the studio will be 20% off for anyone who mentions this email! You don’t have to bring in a coupon–just tell me you saw my note on Facebook or in an email! This does not include special orders–only completed paintings, jewelry, fiber art, and doll cases. Don’t miss the fun and friends.

Sentosa means tranquility in Malay– If you know me you know that my life is busy, wild, & wacky! But I am always trying to find a little peace and harmony. I do find that tranquility when I escape into my creative state of mind in SENTOSA at Sunset Center. Please come by and see the beautiful art I have–many great Christmas gift items! And nobody can gift wrap quite like me–and it’s free in Sentosa! Enjoy tranquility as you do your Christmas shopping in Sentosa!

If you can’t make it for the Art Walk, I will be in my gallery, Sentosa Saturday from 11-5, and Sunday from 1-5. This week, I’ll be available Monday through Friday afternoons from 3-6. Call for an appointment: 806 676-1733.

I’m looking forward to seeing you! Please come by and let me help you with your Christmas shopping!

Please come to First Friday Art Walk
5:00-9:00 on November 5th
SENTOSA–Art Gallery featuring the work of Marsha Clements

This is a perfect opportunity to jump start your holiday shopping in Sentosa, Marsha Clements’ studio/gallery in The Galleries at Sunset Center.

Simplify the Holidays— Get an Early Start & Enjoy Christmas!

I look forward to the holidays every year, but it seems that as our family grows up and the girls have married and had children, it gets more complicated. Planning around everyone’s schedules can be a challenge. Getting the house decorated and ready for company and parties is a huge job. And of course there’s the shopping and wrapping and cooking!

Getting an early start is one trick to simplifying your holidays. One of the most time consuming tasks involves finding for the perfect gifts for your family and friends, and getting them beautifully wrapped. Let me help you pick special gifts for everyone on your list, wrapped and ready to place under your Christmas tree.

I have recently opened my new art studio and gallery, Sentosa, #102 in the east wing of the Galleries at Sunset Center,. You can find great gifts for almost everyone on your list in Sentosa. And I’ll even wrap those gifts beautifully and free of charge.

Give the gift of ART! A beautiful oil painting is a treasure that will last for many generations to come. A unique pottery fountain, vase or bowl would make a fabulous addition to any home. A customized vintage suitcase is a great place to store your treasures, your favorite doll, or use it for what it was designed to do—travel with it—to grandma’s house or a sleepover with your best friend.

What can you find in Sentosa to put under your Christmas tree?
• A Christmas painting is a wonderful gift for yourself or someone special. I can have cards made from your painting and you have customized Christmas cards for your friends, family, and business associates. I have Christmas paintings in all sizes ready to wrap, but if you want a commissioned painting of your child with Santa or your dog—you need to let me know now so we can have it ready for Santa to deliver. I am limited to how much can be done prior to Christmas—don’t wait until it’s too late for this year.
• Pottery Bells are great Christmas ornaments and can be used in the garden or as décor year round. These bells are perfect small gifts for teachers, neighbors, or to stuff those stockings.
• I have made some beautiful clay nativities that you will have to have for your collections.
• For the guys on your list—how about a painting of their favorite bird dog or best horse?
• For adult children or grandparents—who wouldn’t love a painting of their child or grandchildren? And remember you can have giclee’ prints of the painting and use them as gifts for almost everyone on your list.
• Pottery fountains make a wonderful gift that will keep on giving all year long. The sound of cascading water will bring calm and relaxation to the receiver of these fabulous tabletop fountains.
• For the gals, along with the art you will find unique jewelry from gemstones and Swarovski crystals with sterling silver findings. I use only the finest crystals and gemstones and beads in my jewelry creations. I also have fiber art– hand knitted scarves and neck warmers.
• For those little girls who play with dolls—how about a DollCase customized for your little girl and her favorite doll? Hand painted vintage suitcases are painted inside and out, and include a place to store and travel with their doll and all of their accessories. Check out my website MyDollCase.com for all of the details and lots of pictures.
• If you need items personalized with painted names or hand painted embellishments, let me take care of that for you. I can paint on just about anything from an ornament to painting an apron for your aunt, a bat for that baseball boy or a chair for a special child.
• Let me help you with special artistic gift wrap or custom Christmas cards designed from an oil painting with a Christmas theme.
• You can also purchase a gift certificate from Sentosa and allow the person you are buying for to choose their own unique Christmas gift from the art in Sentosa, a fine art studio and gallery.

So drop into Sentosa and let me help you make your holidays in 2010 the best and easiest ever!

The first 2 weeks of November, I will be in the gallery from 2:30-6:00 Monday through Friday. Starting November 11, I will be at in the studio from 11:00 until 6:00, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead just to be sure I didn’t have to step out for a while—806.676.1733. If you need me to stay later or come early, please give me a call and I will be there for you.

Mark your Calendar for these Upcoming Events:

Holiday Open House at Sentosa
Saturday, November 20th 10 a.m.-5 p.m
Sunday, November 21st 1 p.m.-5p.m.

Girls & Dolls Tea Party
December 11th 2:30 p.m.
Wear your prettiest Christmas dress and bring your special doll for a Holiday Tea party in Sentosa at Sunset Center. Bring your mom, grandmothers, and aunts to this special event for little girls. RSVP 676-1733

Let me help you make this the best Christmas ever for you and your family.

Sentosa, Marsha Clements’ Studio-Gallery
#102 in the East Wing of Sunset Center
3701 Plains Blvd, Amarillo, TX
(Go West on 15th off Georgia)