The Gambia: Batiks

On my recent trip to The Gambia, West Africa, we visited an area where they made Batik fabric.  I've always loved batiks from Africa and Bali, Indonesia, and I've purchased a lot over the years, but I had never seen the actual process.  We were in for a real treat since they gave us a chance to see some of these beautiful works being created.  After the presentation we had the opportunity to purchase some of the finished products.  The selection was overwhelming to say the least.  Were it not for the fact that I'd have to pay to get all of them back to the U.S., and that I surely would have blown my travel budget, I definitely would have loaded up.  I've never seen so many varied and beautiful batiks in one place before.  As a certified fabric fiend the best way I can describe it is, awesome.

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

SKCreations, LLC Surface Design: Pantone Jazz

When Pantone, the authority on color, announced their Pantone Fashion Color Report for Fall 2013, I fell in love with the color palette.  I decided to put my own spin on it by creating a design that used those colors or some that were a close match.  The result was my original surface design titled Pantone Jazz.  I had my design digitally printed on fabric, then used it to create my favorite roomy tote bag.  I've included this design in my All That Jazz collection since I created geometric shapes in various sizes and color combinations and placed them vertically and horizontally, which I feel is a very jazzy and rhythmic layout if I might say so myself.  I used a fuchsia duck cloth to make the lining so the bag really pops.  Makes me want to snap my fingers.

SKCreations, LLC Surface Designs - Wall Clocks

SKCreations, LLC's surface designs can now be found on Wall Clocks, courtesy of Society6!  I love this addition to their product line.  I'm a clock/watch fanatic anyway, and it's exciting to see my designs on something everyone can use.  You can choose between three frame colors and two hand colors based on your preferences.  Here are a few of my latest.

Abstract I

Retropolis 5

Stained Glass 1

The Problem Tree

On a recent trip to Senegal in West Africa we visited a Fulani village which was near Pink Lake.  Our guide introduced us to the Chief, and showed us around the village.  We came upon what is called the "Problem Tree".  This is where members of the village go to resolve problems that arise between them and, from what we were told, it works.  I found this to be such a simple yet profound way to deal with discord.  In this quaint location where people live in huts and have meager possessions, they deal with their problems in a very simple and civilized manner.  Wouldn't it be great if problems between people all over the world could be resolved this way?  Perhaps members of the U.S. Congress could learn a thing or two from the Fulani people.  Imagine that.

I also found the tree itself to be beautiful.  I don't know what kind it is, but it's beauty definitely brings a smile to your face.  Maybe that alone can make you forget your problems for a while.

The "Problem Tree", Fulani Village, Senegal, West Africa
Photo by Sharon A. Keyser-Jackson

Happy Valentine's Day!

It's Valentine's Day or, as some say, National Love Day.  I personally think it was designed to find a way to get consumers to pony up money for gifts during the slow retail month of February.  We've probably recovered from the holiday season spending and the January clearance sales.  Spring is more than a month away and, honestly, it's too cold for people to think about buying warm weather gear right now, especially if you're on the East Coast (brrrr).  So, what to do in February?  Buy flowers, chocolate, jewelry and whatever else is deemed appropriate to celebrate the day.  If it brings a smile to a dear one's face, go for it.  Don't make it all about February 14th however.  Show your love and appreciation for others throughout the year.  I believe it can make the world a better place.

I have created an original surface design collection titled "LOVE".  The various font styles I used in the design depict the many ways in which we can feel and express love, not only for others but for ourselves.  My collection includes fabric, from which I have crafted a roomy tote bag.  It also includes note cards which are blank inside so you can write a personal note.  These products are available for purchase.  For inquiries, please email me at info@skcreations.com.

LOVE fabric printed on Linen Cotton Canvas

LOVE Note Cards (5" x  7", Blank Inside, White Envelope)

LOVE Tote Bag