Happy Halloween!

'Tis that haunting time of year again! May you and yours have the Happiest of Halloweens, and may it be a wild rrrrride!

Halloween Hugs,
~ Johanna, JP & Jack














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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

Halloween Blog Sale!...

Hello Halloween Folk Art Lovers!

Thank you for joining me for my Halloween Blog Sale! I have limited quantities of each set, and some of the items are limited edition characters. All of my designs will arrive signed as well. If something interests you, please EMAIL ME and include the name of the set you are interested in along with your name and shipping address. Sets will be reserved in the order of email requests received. Once items are packaged and a shipping estimate is established, I will send you an e-invoice to finalize the sale. I will start packing boxes on Friday Oct. 23, and emailing your invoices over the weekend. Prompt payment will equal prompt shipping in hopes that you will receive your goodies by Halloween!

THANK YOU 

for your interest in my collectible Halloween Reproductions, 

Signed by the Artist!

{ Sold Out - Thank you! }

The Bulbous Crow Pair @ $125 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 2 Limited Edition Signed Standing Crows 

from Johanna's line of Bethany Lowe Designs products 

Approximately 30 pairs in this size and style were produced

 Crows are 8" tall with a 4" diameter ball body

*NOTE: Upon arrival, wire feet may need to be adjusted

 to balance the weight of the crow/s. They tend to be 

a little tipsy, but will stand after proper positioning

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{ SOLD OUT ~ Thank you! }

Forest Owls Set @ $57 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Signed Standing Owl Ornament from Johanna's 

Bethany Lowe Designs Halloween line

Owl measures 6.75" tall with wire

-1 Cranberry Orange Scented Candle with illustrated owl wrap by Johanna

Candle, signed on the underside, comes from Johanna's, 

made in Vermont line, by Aunt Sadie's. Candle is 4" tall

- 2 Black Bottle Brush trees with orange glitter dusting from

 Bethany Lowe Designs

Trees are approximately 4.5" and 9" tall

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{ SOLD OUT ~ Thank you! }

Hoot Set @ $70 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Signed Owl screen print on wood standup from Johanna's 

Primitives by Kathy line. Owl standup is 6.5" tall

-1 Cranberry Orange Scented Candle with illustrated owl wrap by Johanna

Candle, signed on the underside, comes from Johanna's, 

made in Vermont line, by Aunt Sadie's. Candle is 4" tall

- 1 Signed Handmade illustrated pressed-paper ornament 

from Johanna's original line 

Owl ornament measures 9" tall with wire hook

Please specify A, B or C

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{ SOLD OUT - Thank you! }

Night Flier Duo @ $122 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Signed Balancing Bat from Johanna's 

Bethany Lowe Designs Halloween line

 Bat is 8.25" tall by 7.5" wide

- 1 Signed Balancing Owl from Johanna's 

Bethany Lowe Designs Halloween line

Owl is 9" tall by 8.5" wide

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{ SOLD OUT - Thank you! }

Nutty Cat & Jack Set @ $65 plus shipping

~ INCLUDES~

- 1 Signed Limited Edition Nut Cup Set from Johanna's 

Bethany Lowe Designs line. Nut Cups are 3.25" tall with wire

-1 Gingerbread Scented Candle with illustrated Cat & Jack wrap 

Candle, signed on the underside, comes from Johanna's, 

made in Vermont line, by Aunt Sadie's. Candle is 4" tall

-1 Signed Boo Hanger from Johanna's Primitives by Kathy line

Hanger is 5.5" tall with wire

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Stay Tuned here for a Halloween Collector Spotlight Feature early Next Week!

Happy Halloween!

~ Johanna ~

Haunting Reminder....

Hello Spooks!

I invite you to haunt my Halloween Blog Sale here tonight, starting at 8:30 pm EST. Please refresh your browser at that time to see what I have in store. I'll have a variety of signed reproduction sets for the Halloween season. Quantities of each set are limited, and some of the items are limited edition characters. All of my designs will arrive signed as well. If something interests you, just EMAIL ME and include the name of the set you are interested in along with your name and shipping address. Sets will be reserved in the order of email requests received.

Also, if you are interested in collecting a one of a kind Halloween original, make sure to visit my Folk Art Originals page on my website - same bat time!

Happy Haunting!

~ Johanna ~

Halloween Trunk Show Ten!...

Wow, really it's been 10 Years already?! My how time flies when you are having fun, creating Halloween art! Well, another Halloween Trunk Show has come and gone. We were blessed with a warm, sunny day and lots of happy collectors! I so appreciate all my peeps for coming out to say hi, visit and share in the Halloween delights. Thanks for being an integral part of this past decade. We all touch each other's lives in one way or another. I am honored that my art has brought us together, and I hope it always makes you smile :)

I snapped as many photos as I could before the garage door rolled up and the Halloween fans poured in. Enjoy a glimpse of yesterday's memories and until next time, Happy Halloween my friends!



* You can see how excited I was to have everything all set up and in place just moments before the garage door opened :)



* And look at the fun rusty wagon rig JP assembled for this year's limited edition crows! Some of you probably spotted him on Facebook, putting it together in our backyard :)



* We added an old shelf prop to this year's display from our outdoor tent-show days. It allowed me to create more space for my originals!



* Eye candy candles, owls, ornaments, ghosts and witches - oh my!



* My new line of Halloween candles from Aunt Sadie's  added a fun new element and scent to my Halloween collection! We had one burning, and lots were loving the fall aroma, wafting through the air..



* Pillows, totes and notepads with my vintage style Halloween designs were delighting shoppers. Can you spot Mr. Tinkles trying to eat one of my ornaments? What a crazy guy!



* Black feather trees trimmed with owls and other spooks set a festive scene!



* And once again, the lovely Kara Rosenberry was one of my trunk show neighbors!



* Kara has a charming sense about her illustrative work, and she blends it with rustic vintage treasures for that nostalgic feel... Look at those sweet clever cards & whatnots...



* And to my other side was Mr. Christmas (aka Mr. Tinkles - which I infamously coined!) along with his lovely lady, Mandy Yocom. Look how adorable they are!



* Here, Mr. Tinkles tinkers with his mesmerizing miniatures...



* A visit in person is recommended to see Mr. Tinkles' lively creations that light up, animate, twinkle and glow! They will bring the inner child right back out of ya!



* I loved the art-on-a-line look of Mandy Yocom's display! From Fern & Sprout, her colorful, whimsical paintings pair well with her felt & fabric fashion accessories.



* Mandy makes rosettes for the hair, shoes and lapel that really add character and vintage style to your wardrobe... And you gotta love a few creepy baby dolls to add a little spooky to the scene!



* Monica Moonlight sneaks a peek while arranging her table of spooky fun clay creations and fabric delights... Look at all the fun pattern and color!



* This year, Holly Kusterer of Paint Happy Designs and biz partner Barabara Stark joined us for some Halloween fun. Holly is a familiar face, appearing often on KUSA's Colorado & Co.'s show for design & crafting ideas!



* And the Trunk Show was all the better with Bindlegrim himself, joining us once again from New Mexico. He's the talent behind the Trunk Show's Website design and this year's post card & poster graphic!



* Bindlegrim brought along a new family of limited edition Beasties too! Love these!



* Around the corner I caught Heide Murray of All Good Wishes striking a pose... or perhaps I persuaded her to! She makes the most delightful felted character with vintage charm!



* Felted ghosts, bunnies, jacks, turnips and all sorts of imaginative guys were ready to greet collectors!



* We had a slew of young entrepreneurs exhibiting their wares at this year's Trunk Show, and two of which were Heide's daughters grinning big with their "All Little Wishes" line of designs! Adorable :)



* Next to the Murray girls was Zack sharing his woodworks! What a cutie he was with his long brown locks and stylin' fedora!



* And the Robinson & McNeish daughters shared an imaginative collection of handmade robot style characters made from old kitchenware! FUN! I do love how the Halloween Trunk Show nurtures the budding imaginations of children. That's how I got bit by the crafting bug many years ago.... (thanks mom!)



* Across from the crafty kiddos was an enchanting collection of papier mache characters from Cindy Habermann. She somehow escaped my camera this year, but I snagged some pics of her art! Even though she now lives in Minnesota, we had the pleasure of seeing her at this year's show in Denver.



* Gourd guys, owls, cats and other spooks are just some of the fun characters that I spotted in Cindy's booth...



* Jacks and bats on old blocks and vintage tins give an age-old flare to her characters.



* And upon entering the garage, Sam Robinson of Manorisms had her Halloween inspired goods arranged like a general store! It's always fun to see what clever finds she has in store...



* Decorated skulls with polka-dotted bows and bags of spooky bugs likely had the kiddos excited!





* Jars topped with animals and filled with wooden game pieces just make you smile...



* More handmade orange & black goodies greeted guests!



* Smiling bright was Erica McNeish with all of her tasty treats and sweets! Shoppers gobbled up her goodies well before the end of the day...



* And enter the collectors anxious for some handmade Halloween folk art collectibles!





* As you can see, we were blessed with a warm, sunny day! Despite the fall theme, people were wearing shorts!



* Again, many THANKS to all of you that came from both near and far to join us for Year 10!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
~ Johanna & JP