Good Reads

         One of my favourite gifts to give and to get are books- I still really like to read physical books- these days they almost feel like a bit of a luxury- as is the time to sit and read. When I go on holiday I always pack a new book in the off chance that I can curl up somewhere for a few hours while someone like a Grandparent entertains my children- a rare moment for Mum. I thought I would share some of my current favourite reads- with a bit of a creative slant-  good either for you or that artist on your shopping list!

Handmade Nation- The Rise of DIY, Art,Craft and Design- a look at the rise of contemporary craft as a relevant art form. This is an interesting read filled with beautiful examples of what makers across America are making from Olympia Washington to Providence Rhode Island- this one is going in my carry on for sure! By Faythe Levine and Cortney Heimerl

Collage- Contemporary Artists Hunt and Gather, Cut and Paste, Mash Up and Transform- the follow up compendium to the Jealous Curator's best selling book Creative Block. Showcasing contemporary art from around the world this is once again a wonderful book to have one hand for inspiration and direction. By Danielle Krysa

Water Color Painting By Contemporary Artists- this book takes a look at the revival of a more traditional medium in a completely contemporary way. Featuring looks at watercolour artists methods and work- from journaling to more fashion forward work. Again this is a really beautiful book- perfect to curl up with a seek out some inspiration. By Sujean Rim

Summer Reading Club

             This Summer- at our house- has been declared the Summer of reading by the Littles- it's only natural that they catch the reading bug as both The Mr. and I are big readers- some might even call me a book worm. At any given time I usually have at least two or three books on the go- my tastes vary and are fairly all inclusive- I read a lot but am not a literary snob! With the Littles deeply immersed in our regional library's Summer reading program I thought it would be fun to talk about what books I have my nose stuck in right now!

      Blood, Bones & Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton is an old favourite- I have read this book no less than three times already but still I keep coming back to it again and again. Gabrielle writes about her relationship to food through her journey as a chef- from childhood to the kitchens of France and Greece to the experience of owning her own restaurant. She paints pictures with words of people sitting down to eat- a satisfying experience.

     Creative Block by The Jealous Curator- Danielle Krysa- this book is an extension of one of my favourite art blogs- interviews, projects and real life advice from 50 contemporary artists- including my friend and artist Jessica Bell! This book is a source of inspiration for days when I need a quick hit of creative block- busting!

     Made By Hand by Lena Corwin- this is my most recent book purchase- I had been holding out even peeking in this book at Spool Of Thread as I was saving it for the Summer! Full of projects from some of my favourite bloggers and makers this book is full of inspiration! I have already started on the boot sock pattern from Jenny Gordy- hoping they will be done by fall! Made By Hand is like Summer Camp- I sat and soaked it all in- cover to cover over our vacation!

        This is what is in my current reading stack- I'm interested dear friends what you are all reading this Summer! Please comment here- I'm always looking for some new book recommendations and I know there are some fellow book worms out there!