Six Silent Auctions, Ending Soon!

Don't miss the 6 Silent Auctions on our Website featuring a selection of my collectible folk art originals, all appearing in the current issue of Where Women Create Magazine! Best Offers for each piece are being accepted until the auctions end on December 13th. Visit our Silent Auction page for a medley of photos and details about each piece as well as magazine snapshots of each character. ALL Bids are welcome, so don’t be shy! Jump on in with a bid so that we can update you with the latest best offer before the auction ends. THANK YOU for your interest and support!

Best Wishes & Good Luck!
~ Johanna

Holiday Blog Sale * Round 2

Fa La La my friends! Another festive round of Vintage Holiday delights is here! Thanks to all for joining me for last month's Vintage Holiday Blog sale. I did a little treasure hunting and have decided to release a few more limited edition goods that I have on hand. I am adding a couple new lit box signs that plug and GLOW. Although fleeting, I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an assortment of samples from this screen printed Vintage Holiday collection of reproductions, so this is your chance to collect a few rare pieces, each signed. Please review the descriptions below each image for more information, and click on the photos for a larger view. To reserve your faves please EMAIL ME and include the name of the set or single you wish to adopt! Also include your name, phone number and shipping address. When your order is prepared, we will send you an e-invoice to complete the sale. Thank you for interest in my collectible holiday licensed designs!

* Happy Holidays *

CHEERS!

~ Johanna ~

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Ho Ho Ho Light Box

~ Signed by the Artist ~ 3 Available

Santa Light Box @ $36 plus shipping

- 1 "HO HO HO" Lit Box Sign - Stand

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

* Inner bulb allows word & dot cutouts to GLOW
in a soft, frosty blue/green hue!

Electrical cord includes on/off switch

Approximately 6.5" tall by 8.5" wide by 2.75" deep
Screen Printed on Wood

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* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

Fa La La Fox

~ Each Fox Signed by the Artist ~ 2 Sets Left

Collect both Foxes and a Pack of Cards @ $58 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "Fa La La" Fox Stand-up

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 6.5" tall / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Fa La La" Fox Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 6" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 Pack of 8 Christmas Cards

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Cards include an illustrated full color scene on the inside too!

Inside Message:

Ho Ho Ho: "Wishing you a jolly holiday!"

Happy Owlidays: "Hope your holiday is a hoot!"

Jolly Be: "Frolic and glide along the ride!"

Warm Wishes: "May your den be cozy & bright!"

Each 4.75" x 7" with Envelopes 

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* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

Ornament Plaques

~ Each Plaque Signed by the Artist ~ 2 Sets Left

Collect all 6 @ $54 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "JOY" Santa Ornament Plaque

- 1 "Fa La La" Fox Ornament Plaque

- 1 "Happy Holidays" Candy Cane Ornament Plaque

- 1 "Jolly Be" Santa Ornament Plaque

- 1 "Happy Owlidays" Owl Ornament Plaque

- 1 "CHEERS" Snowman Ornament Plaque

(all from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Each Approximately 5" wide / Screen Printed on Wood

- a peek up close -

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* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

'Tis the Season!

~ Ornament & Box Signs, Signed by the Artist ~ 1 Set Left!

Collect a Snowman, 2 Box Signs and a Pack of Cards @ $74 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 retired Juggler Snowman Ornament

(from Johanna's retired Bethany Lowe Designs line)

Approximately 7" tall / Papier Mache & Resin

- 1 "Home for the Holidays" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 3.5" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Tis the Season" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 4.5" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 Pack of 8 Christmas Cards

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Cards include an illustrated full color scene on the inside too!

Inside Message:

Warm Wishes: "May your den be cozy & bright!"

Happy Owlidays: "Hope your holiday is a hoot!"

Jolly Be: "Frolic and glide along the ride!"

Ho Ho Ho: "Wishing you a jolly holiday!"

Each 4.75" x 7" with Envelopes 

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* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

Johanna's Limited Edition Christmas Cards
* available *

1 Card Pack - $19
2 Card Packs - $32
+ USPS shipping - $6.50

~ Each Pack INCLUDES ~

- 8 Christmas Cards

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Cards include an illustrated full color scene on the inside too!

Inside Message:

Warm Wishes: "May your den be cozy & bright!"
Ho Ho Ho: "Wishing you a jolly holiday!"

Jolly Be: "Frolic and glide along the ride!"
Happy Owlidays: "Hope your holiday is a hoot!"

Each 4.75" x 7" with Envelopes

* Take a quick video tour of the Inside & Out of each Greeting Card design!

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Sweet Fox Hooked Pillow

~ SOLD OUT ~

each $44 plus shipping

- 1 Hand-Hooked Fox Pillow

(from Johanna's new Peking Handicraft, Inc. line)
Concealed Zipper on backside allows for
easy removal & cleaning of hooked slip-cover casing

Approximately 18" tall by 14" wide

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* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

Home for the Holidays!

~ All Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect a Standing Snowman & 2 Box Signs @ $92 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 retired Juggler Snowman Figurine

(from Johanna's retired Bethany Lowe Designs line)

Approximately 10.25" tall / Papier Mache & Resin

- 1 "Home for the Holidays" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 3.5" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Tis the Season" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 4.5" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

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Joy Light Box

~ Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Snowman Light Box @ $38 plus shipping

- 1 "JOY" Lit Box Sign - Stand

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

* Inner bulb allows word & dot cutouts to GLOW
 in a frosty blue/green hue!

Electrical cord includes on/off switch

Approximately 6.5" tall by 11" wide by 2.75" deep
Screen Printed on Wood

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Happy Owlidays

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect both Owls @ $60 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "Happy Owlidays" Lit Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

* Battery operated LED lights allow wreath berries to GLOW!

Right side switch includes on & off & 6 hour timer options

Approximately 12" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Happy Owlidays" Owl Stand-up

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 6.5" tall / Screen Printed on Wood

* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

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Christmas Tree Santa

~ Box Sign & Santa, both Signed ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect all 3 with bottle brush tree @ $40 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "Oh Christmas Tree"Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 5" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 retired Santa Ornament

(from Johanna's retired Bethany Lowe Designs line)

Approximately 4.25" tall / Papier Mache & Resin

- 1 small white bottle brush tree with mica shimmer

(from Bethany Lowe Designs)

Approximately 2.75" tall

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

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Winter's Delight Web Sale!

Dear Collector Friends,

SAVE the DATE! In just one week, I will be debuting my 2016 collection of wintery original characters on my website. On the evening of Wednesday December 14th, I will be sharing a festive mix are bell ornaments, snowmen, penguins, Santas, and other fun folk art characters. If you haven't done so, please join my Mailing List for the start time and details.

Follow me on Instagram & Facebook for sneak peeks along the way!

Cheers,
~ Johanna

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Vintage Holiday Blog Sale!

Ho Ho Ho my friends! Vintage Holiday delights are here! Although fleeting, I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an assortment of samples from my screen printed Vintage Holiday collection of reproductions, and now I am releasing those to you! Each piece is SIGNED on the back or the base by me, the artist behind the design. A few of the sets also include an 8 pack of my matching Christmas cards! You'll see that with some sets, I have also included a snowman ornament in the mix. ALL of my designs being released here have been retired by their original manufacturers. Please review the descriptions below each image for more information, and click on the photos for a larger view. To reserve your faves please EMAIL ME and include the name of the set or single you wish to adopt! Also include your name, phone number and shipping address. When your order is prepared, we will send you an e-invoice to complete the sale. Thank you for interest in my collectible holiday licensed designs!

* Happy Holidays *

CHEERS!

~ Johanna ~

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Jolly Be Santas

~ Each Santa Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect all three Santas & a Bottlebrush Tree @ $56 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "Jolly Be" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 4" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Ho Ho Ho" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 7" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Jolly Be" Santa Stand-up

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 7.75" tall / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 small white bottle brush tree with mica shimmer

(from Bethany Lowe Designs)

Approximately 3.5" tall

* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View * 

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Frosty Frolic

~ Each Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect all three Snowmen @ $75 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "Frosty Frolic" Snowman Stand-up

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 8" tall  / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Frosty Frolic" Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 12" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 Snowman Ruffled Ornament

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

*ONLY 6 ornament samples were ever produced by PBK*

Approximately 4.5" wide / Papier Mache & Paper

* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View * 

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Oh Christmas Tree!

~ Printed Trees, Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Collect all three Trees and a Pack of Cards @ $59 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 "Joy" Tree Stand-up

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 7" tall / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 "Oh Christmas Tree"Box Sign - Stand or Hang

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Approximately 5" tall by 1.75" deep / Screen Printed on Wood

- 1 small white bottle brush tree with mica shimmer

(from Bethany Lowe Designs)

Approximately 2.75" tall

- 1 Pack of 8 Christmas Cards

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Cards include an illustrated full color scene on the inside too!

Inside Message:

Ho Ho Ho: "Wishing you a jolly holiday!"

Happy Owlidays: "Hope your holiday is a hoot!"

Jolly Be: "Frolic and glide along the ride!"

Warm Wishes: "May your den be cozy & bright!"

Each 4.75" x 7" with Envelopes 

* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View * 

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Peppermint Snowman Candy Bowl

~ Signed by the Artist ~ SOLD OUT!

Each Candy Bowl @ $72 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES ~

- 1 paper pulp / resin snowman candy bowl

(from Johanna's retired Bethany Lowe Designs line)

Approximately 9" tall

* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View * 

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* CLICK on the Photo for a larger View *

Johanna's Limited Edition Christmas Cards
* Available *

1 Card Pack - $19
2 Card Packs - $32
+ USPS shipping - $6.50

~ Each Pack INCLUDES ~

- 8 Christmas Cards

(from Johanna's retired Primitives by Kathy line)

Cards include an illustrated full color scene on the inside too!

Inside Message:

Warm Wishes: "May your den be cozy & bright!"
Ho Ho Ho: "Wishing you a jolly holiday!"

Jolly Be: "Frolic and glide along the ride!"
Happy Owlidays: "Hope your holiday is a hoot!"

Each 4.75" x 7" with Envelopes 

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Vintage Holiday Sneak Peek...

I've got a special treat for you! I am releasing my small collection of vintage style holiday graphics, screen printed on box signs, ornament plaques and character stand-ups. These limited edition collectibles made only a brief appearance via Primitives by Kathy at last summer's gift market. Shortly after, PBK's themes and color palettes took a different path, and hence, this retro winter collection came to an end. As these designs were not introduced at this January's market, it's safe to say that production was low, making these finds extra special! I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an assortment of samples, and I will soon be releasing those to you! Each piece is SIGNED on the back or the base by me, the artist of each design.

Check back this evening, November 22nd at 6:30 pm EST for a medley of Collector Sets that will be posting here on my Blog.

Thanks for your interest!!
~ Johanna

Collector Spotlight: Mary & Frank in Washington!

Hello Friends!

I am honored to share another fun Collector Spotlight with you! For about 8 years now, Mary and Frank have been such sweet supporters of my folk art! Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, they traveled to a California art event years ago where I was exhibiting my Halloween folk art originals, and the rest is history! Since then, they've journeyed out to Colorado to experience one of our rocky mountain winters and collect a few winter delights. Most recently, I travelled to them at this year's Hallowbaloo in Washington state! They arrived early, and it was such a pleasure to reconnect! After last month's Halloween event, they decorated their home with their favorite seasonal delights and sent me a video clip of their festive mantel. I was so thrilled to see their display that I invited them to share more of their photos with you! Gladly they accepted! So, ENJOY a peek into their decorated home along with a fun Q & A. Many thanks to both Mary & Frank for sharing a glimpse into their home and for being such dear collector friends!




* I love this selfie! Frank & Mary are always smiling bright whether it's in person, photo or via email :)



* Here Mary arranges a group of my originals by color scheme. The folk art vintage whites and earthen hues from surrounding textural accent pieces bring out the natural charm of these two lumina jacks and the ghost sitter (.. the ghost they acquired this year!)




* This dramatic vignette centers around one of the few taller pieces that I have created over the years. The sweet jack-o'-lantern vase looks charming surrounded by fall gourds, autumnal foliage and a hooked art piece.

Johanna: How did you learn about my Halloween folk art?

Frank & Mary: We started collecting Halloween folk art work back in 2002. We went to Halloween & Vine in Petaluma, CA for the first time in 2007 and Mary was suddenly drawn to your display and character designs and became avid followers of your work ever since.

Johanna: Well that is definitely a perk of traveling to shows as we have the opportunity to make new friends that often fall in love with the art that we make. And the connections made inspire me to make more characters and dream up new concepts!




* A trio of Halloween originals strike a pose on Frank & Mary's mantel. These two candy containers and a jack make for a fun cluster under the towering candles. "Witch Hazel" at left (and referenced below) captured Mary's heart, and the collecting began!

Johanna: How long have you been collecting my originals?

Frank & Mary: It all started in 2007 at Halloween and Vine when Mary purchased "Witch Hazel" which was shown in a magazine featuring your work.

Johanna: Well, "Witch Hazel" looks content in her WA home. She has certainly welcomed many more JPD cousins into her family since her arrival! And yes, she did appear in Halloween Tricks & Treats Magazine by Better Homes & Gardens, the same year you started collecting my art!



* Here's a wide of their lovely mantel where you can see many of their Johanna Parker Design folk art characters proudly displayed.

Johanna: What is it about my creations that captures your imagination?

Frank & Mary: Your creations highlight a special occasion or holiday, but the folk art details and care that go into each piece bring a sense of joy in looking at them anytime.

Johanna: Ahh, thank you for saying that. A lot of heart and attention to detail do go into every piece with the wish that they will be cherished, appreciated and bring joy to their new owners. For me, it's a treat to see those smiles in person too...

* Speaking of joy and smiles, JP happened to capture this adorable photo of Mary grinning with glee after she snatched my one and only black cat folk lantern! From the looks of it, she found a prominent spot for this cutie in the center of their mantel!



* I just realized that I named this piece "Happy Frank Folk Lantern!" This often happens when creating my pieces... I'll get the notion to name a character a certain name, and then the collector that acquires it will have a deep connection to that name. Well, here we go again!! Clearly, both Franks make Mary happy, and that likely makes Frank happy too! Hence, "Happy Frank!"



* A tall green vase, filled with bittersweet, frames an end of their stunning mantel display. The soft vintage green accents on some of my originals pair well with the decorative objects, candles and nature inspired finds the Mary embellishes her seasonal settings with.

Johanna: Where have you had the best luck in acquiring my original pieces; shows, web sales, Collector's Catch, eBay, etc?

Frank & Mary: Our best luck in acquiring your work has been at shows, with an early arrival the best strategy. Web sales have also worked as long as I (Frank) was at a computer at the right time. The most fun was making a journey to Denver after it had snowed at one of your open houses in December when we were able to meet JP and your parents and take a side trip to Georgetown for a sleigh ride.

Johanna: Ah yes! We certainly enjoyed your presence at that memorable event! The flakes were falling and we were blanketed in sparkling snow, perfect for a holiday themed event. And yes, my parents who also live in WA, were in town visiting too! Thanks for braving the storm and being courageous to venture up into the mountains to Georgetown too :)



* Here is a magical snapshot of the winter originals that Mary & Frank adopted during a past visit to our Holiday Open House in Denver. I do remember it being a very snowy weekend, so I'm sure these pieces bring back lots of fun wintery memories from their snowy trip to Colorado, sleigh ride and all! How fun and nostalgic!

Johanna: Do you have a favorite piece in your collection?

Frank & Mary: The pieces are like children so there are not any favorites - they are all loved equally.

Johanna: That's a safe answer!  :) I hear ya, it's difficult to pick folk art faves!



* Here's a fun side scene of spooky characters! My 2 original jack-o'-lanterns (Johanna Parker Design) at center are in great company with 2 of Scott Smith figures from Rucus Studio...



* A jolly JOL man by Jack Roads takes a seat next to a black feather tree trimmed in Halloween ornaments.. Mary has her tree tucked in an old firkin, cleverly tying in a little of the past with the present. Let's take a closer peek!



* Ahh, yes, I spy 3 of my reproduction Halloween hanging ball characters from my Bethany Lowe Designs collection. Intermixed are other delights including a variety of Patricia Breen baubles.

Johanna: Is there anything in particular you suggest I try making
in the future?

Frank & Mary: We miss collecting the "mantle pieces" and bowls with characters done earlier in your designs - so bringing them back would be nice.

Johanna: Hmm, can you describe what you mean by "mantle pieces"?

Frank & Mary: I remember seeing large bust/head pieces (like shoulder and head) that you put on your mantle and shelf in one magazine featuring your work.

Johanna: Oh, I see! Yes, you are referring to my head and shoulders busts. I bet you are remembering back to my Tricks & Treats article as there was a witch bust pictured on a side table and a Jack bust on the mantle. I kept them both, and now they live on my studio shelf :) Thanks for your feedback! I should make a few busts for next year.




* Speaking of busts, here is a mini bust that Frank & Mary collected during my 4th of July themed web sale last year. I'm glad you snatched an Uncle Sam, as I rarely have time to make summer season characters.



* Beyond the Halloween & Holiday collecting, Mary & Frank enjoy celebrating Valentine's Day! They snapped this sweet photo of a heartfelt trio. Again, I'm in great company, as my two Johanna Parker Design V-Day snowman and love bird egg cup are cozying up to a precious Nicol Sayre angel.



* And, let's not forget about spring! So far, Mary & Frank have adopted this original chocolate-hued bunny ball character of mine. If I could find the time to make more spring characters, they would likely have a few. But, one is certainly a happy start and may just "spring" forth others!

Well, I hope you enjoyed this peek into Frank and Mary's delightful home! I certainly did! I probably say this every time, but it is always a pleasure to see my folk art characters lovingly displayed in my collectors' homes. Whether they prefer contemporary modern, shabby chic, eclectic, vintage, or beyond, my folk art originals seem to fit right in! That always fascinates me! Again, I am honored to  see my creations carefully arranged and admired with love. Many many thanks to Mary and Frank for  supporting my artistic endeavors and opening their doors to us! Your home is lovely!

To leave a comment or question for Frank & Mary, please click on the "comments" link at the bottom of this post! Thank you!

I look forward to sharing more Collector Spotlights posts in the future. 'Tis the season, so before you take down your JPD holiday displays, send me some photos for next time! I look forward to honoring your support of the folk-arts!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
~ Johanna

Collector Spotlight ~ Spirited Celeste!

Bring on the Holiday Cheer as Christmas is ever so near! It is my honor and treat to share with you a festive Collector Spotlight. My dear collector friend Celeste, who shares a love for all things holiday, has once again opened her cozy home to us! After she artfully arranged her holiday displays this December, she snapped a medley of photos for me to share with you! Celeste has been collecting my folk art for several years, and her cupboards and sideboards show the results of her passion. Amongst the art of others, I am honored to have such a special spot in her home! Not only does she revere my winter-themed characters, but she also has a weakness for my Halloween as seen in her original Collector Spotlight feature! We've connected several times at shows and at our open house, and it is the twinkle in her eyes and the joy in her smile that really resonates with me when she sees my latest creations. I love that my creativity can ignite a wonderment and inspire her imagination. As always, it is a joy for me to see my handmade creations delighting others and filling homes with good cheer. Thank you Celeste for welcoming us into your decorated home, and I appreciate that you have found a special place in your heart for my art! For those that have joined us, read along for a fun Q & A as you peruse Celeste's photos! ENJOY!




* Celeste's excitement for the holidays has a long history… I love her perky dress and curly locks as the  tinsel shimmers on the Christmas tree!



* A prominent piece for displaying treasures in Celeste's home is her antique Sellers Hoosier hutch,  or "The Better Kitchen Cabinet" as the vintage tag plate states. I agree, it's the perfect spot to showcase a medley of finds, both old and new! From the top to the counter and the shelves in between, she fills the nooks with holiday cheer. A clever blending of antique finds pair perfectly with the folk art characters that call this piece home.

Johanna: How did you learn about my holiday folk art?

Celeste: I first saw you at Halloween and Vine seven years ago, and when I found your booth, I had already spent all my money!! I was so sad..I brought my friend Mona over to your booth and said, look how cute these pieces are!!! Buy one, so at least I can see it at your house! So she bought "Dixie Dot"! Your web update was not long after that and I was so anxious, I was an hour early for it, I forgot about the time change!! I was able to get my first one that day, "Bailey Boo".

Johanna: Oh my, I still remember that email that you sent me an hour early before the sale! I'm so glad you snatched something special, and wow did that ever blossom into something special!



* At center is an original mouse candy container, one of Celeste's favorite pieces.  He's donned with painted stockings and perches atop an old Sparking Mint Puffs tin. (I too have this vintage tin in my collection!) An original cat ball and a snowman ball character surround the scene. Vintage glass sugar jars add a touch of nostalgia and a baker's delight feel. Holiday originals by Johanna Parker Design.



* Above,  one of my original kettle cup snowmen whistles a holiday tune! Celeste tucks him in with old boxes and tins. A sweet vintage style tree and other novelties complete the nostalgic scene.

Johanna: How long have you been collecting my originals?

Celeste: Seven years.

Johanna: Time sure flies! I was just thinking today that I have been making my folk art, full time for over ten years now. Crazy!

* Below, we take a closer look at my snowman ball character, snuggling up to that sweet green tin. Under a delicate glass dome,  a vintage Christmas tree twinkles.



* Off to the side, a pair of holiday ball character originals pose for their photo! As the snowman balances on a pair of antique glass shakers, a vintage camera sets the scene from behind. "Merry Be"says the cat! Holiday originals by Johanna Parker Design.

Johanna: What is it about my creations that captures your imagination?

Celeste: I love antiques and vintage things and I feel your pieces remind me of vintage holidays, say the 40's era. The hues you use are so rich and the expressions are so cute and whimsical, I truly love them.

Johanna: Ahh, you nailed it! I love that era too. Whether intentional or not, the style and flowing lines of the 30s and 40s decades just seep out of me when I create. 



* A white feather tree adds texture, twinkle and delight to the scene. Celeste has been collecting my ornaments, both originals and reproductions for several years now, and her treasure hunting has proven fruitful. One of my illustrated snowman hats cleverly crowns the top of her tree! Below, holiday characters clip and dangle from branches. She has been collecting my one of a kind bell ornaments for several years now and has acquired a hearty handful of these jinglers! Off in the distance, I spy a snowman sitter…. Let's take a closer look!

* Back at the hutch, this very limited edition snowman sitter from my Bethany Lowe Designs line waves a happy hello, while an original Santa ball character hails a "ho ho ho!" Christmas characters by Johanna Parker Design.



* More ornaments dangle in delight and spread good cheer. In the mix, a jolly snowman with carrot nose (bottom right) from artist Tammy Strum joins in on the fun! More characters, both original and reproductions by Johanna Parker Design are sprinkled in for a festive mix!



* As you take a stroll around the tree, more treasures peek through the branches including the two snowmen in red stocking and cone by Johanna Parker Design along with a whimsical snow-cone combo by artist Robert Brawley.

Johanna: Where have you had the best luck in acquiring my original pieces; shows, web sales, Collector's Catch, eBay, etc?

Celeste: Web sales

Johanna: That would make sense… I should call you "Speedy Celeste" with those fast fingers!



* A cabinet cubby calls Christmas with more Johanna Parker Design snowmen! Vintage style snow flake boxes are used for both holiday sentiment and perching posts. A sweet elephant Santa peeks out of a chimney by Jody Battaglia.



* Old coffee and spice tins add a tasteful touch to the holiday scene where both my Santa kettle cup and snowman bust settle. Vintage glass beads, old baubles and a bottlebrush tree add holiday shimmer.

* More antique novelties and an old coffee grinder set the stage for a reproduction Santa ornament from my Bethany Lowe Designs line and a jolly sweet snowman holding snow babies,  an original by artist Tammy Strum. 

* Up top, a limited edition snowman vase from my Bethany Lowe Designs line, bursts with a spray of shiny holiday cheer. An original owl kettle cup by Johanna Parker Design nestles amongst the antique tins and a sweet holly angel by Jody Battaglia adds balance to the arrangement.




* Towering "Icicle Ike," one of Celeste's most recent acquisitions, is one of her faves! He proudly perches next to a very special vintage 60s tree created by Vivian Parsons, Celeste's mother now in spirit. A smaller snowman ball character offers a sweet grin while a little holiday train carrying critters frames the scene. Both snowman originals are by Johanna Parker Design.

Johanna: Do you have a favorite piece in your Christmas collection?

Celeste: As many of your collectors have mentioned before it is hard to choose just one!!!! I love them all! But "Icicle Ike" is up there and the mouse candy container. I am koo koo for your egg cups though, as I love small things…

Johanna: Oh, I know it's almost impossible to choose a fave. I would have guessed egg cups for you too as I know how much you love those :) "Koo Koo" is appropriate in a fun egg-cup kinda way!



* Speaking of Egg Cups….. Look at the large family of characters that Celeste has been adopting over the years! In mass, they make quite the festive statement. I spy eleven little characters in cups with arms spread wide! In the background, the "'Take out Window" painted by the late Charles Wysocki, sets a magical winter scene while Wee Forest Folk ornaments dangle from a tree.



* A closer look reveals sweet little faces with bright eyes and delicate details. A row of beautiful general store style candy jars add a sweet touch, and some are filled with glass candy by Hulet & Hulet.

Johanna: Is there anything in particular you suggest I try making in the future?

Celeste: I would love for you to try making Halloween bell ornaments as well as a squirrel and a raccoon!

Johanna: All would be fun, and thanks for the suggestions! I'm still on the hunt for spooky-sounding jingle bells for Halloween. If anyone has a source for me, please let me know!



* Delicate snowman lollipops, holly leaves and berries and swirly candies and stripes are just some of the motifs that I've painted on these festive cuties...

* Across the way, Celeste has festooned her mantel with holiday finds created by doll maker artisans. The standing Santa Cat designed by artist Mark Roberts is quite a festive statement piece and reminds Celeste of her mischievous cat Millie! But, I imagine (from what I've heard) that Millie would not tolerate to wear that Santa outfit :) A sheer mantel dressing drapes over the edge and draws the eye to a pair of cute snow folk by an unknown artist. 

* Back at the tree, more delights capture Celeste's heart including a hand-painted dog ornament by Carolee Clark (top left) and a sweet cloth angel by Robin Armstrong Seeber (bottom left). Snowman medley by Johanna Parker Design.

I hope you enjoyed the Q & A as well as the holiday glimpse into Celeste's cozy home for Christmas! Many thanks again to Celeste for opening her home to us! It is a joy to have this chance to visit my creations through the lens of her camera, and I am pleased to see how carefully arranged and cherished my art is in her home. My wish is that my handmade characters continue to bring twinkle and delight to her eyes and smiles to those that enter her dwelling. 

To leave a message for Celeste or myself, please click on the "comments" link at the bottom of this post. Thank you!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to you!

~ Johanna