tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49950704317786779992012-02-11T11:16:55.362-08:00Abscraft - Alison Bailey SmithAlison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.comBlogger2641100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-38408676911011374922012-02-10T06:57:00.000-08:002012-02-10T07:01:49.299-08:00

Forthcoming Recycling workshops at The Green Community Shop and Centre *Bookable but free day classes for 10 adults Artist Brenda Sharp will be showing how to make artist books using Graze boxes, can lids etc Sunday 26th of February 10 til 3pm Julie Dodd will be making beautiful structures inspired by nature using milk bottles…. Sunday 11th of March 10 til 3pm Jo Smith will be showing

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-64761640058576842492012-01-13T08:59:00.000-08:002012-01-13T08:59:51.824-08:00

In honour of National Hat day on Sunday, I thought I'd show off some of my hats Metal millinery on Flickr

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-54437565753616639302012-01-09T02:48:00.001-08:002012-01-09T02:56:28.883-08:00

When Friday, 13 January 2012 Time 10:00am until 12:00 noon Venue is Home Cafe at the Woodside Ferry terminal (not the Oxton Branch) and we will be sitting upstairs. Come and meet like minded artistic folks who either live or work in the Wirral and hear about current projects. Feel free to bring examples of current work (a few not lots) and business cards etc. Be prepared to say a

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-11367581194283333652011-12-14T06:55:00.000-08:002011-12-14T06:59:39.599-08:00

The new display of my work I have got a small display of my work at The World Museum Liverpool (labels have still to go up but the work is there now), absolutely thrilled with the opportunity.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-65280512383661636092011-12-13T14:27:00.000-08:002011-12-13T14:36:40.160-08:00

I work for and with Colin Serjent for Red Dot exhibitions and he asked me for any news for their website so it got me thinking about the year. So here is my news from 2011. In July, I curated an exhibition for Wirral Council called "de-junk, re-junk" at the Birkenhead Park, handing out junk and parts of my old kitchen to a group of artists, some first time recyclers

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-31274507970048733002011-11-29T06:03:00.001-08:002011-11-29T06:18:44.993-08:00

Time 13 December · 19:30 - 22:00 Location The Green Community Shop and Centre 49-51 Christchurch Road Oxton/Birkenhead More info As most of us work on our own, see this as your office party for the end of the year, so bring some food to share with other like minded Wirral artistic types, bring wine or soft drinks. Donation welcome for use of the room - coins or

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-54192051203445376832011-11-18T07:46:00.001-08:002011-11-19T03:11:51.126-08:00

Sparkle @ the bluecoat 26 November at 12:00 to 16:00 27 November at 12:00 to 16:00 Location Bluecoat arts centre, School Lane Liverpool L1 3BX Created by: MJMAN, Alison Bailey Smith ForMJMAN More info SPARKLE jewellery show MJMAN selling jewellery show - 12-4pm both days Sat 26th Nov& Sun 27th Nov kindly hosted by the Bluecoat arts centre, School Lane Liverpool L1 3BX 7

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-60345600399186608442011-11-14T05:16:00.001-08:002011-11-14T05:18:04.265-08:00

  Time 18 November · 19:30 - 21:30 Location 6 Melrose Ave., Melrose Hall, Hoylake Created by: Wirral Open Studio Tour More info Informal celebratory event, just in time for Christmas! Please come along, there will be many artwork pieces for sale and there will be also opportunity to talk with the artists.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-11460527663846018522011-11-09T10:08:00.000-08:002011-11-09T10:08:15.825-08:00

I am delighted to announce that my recent application to Community Resource Action Fund has now been approved by the Chief Executive Officer and will receive 75% of the requested funding. Web: www.merseysidewda.gov.uk My application is for creative workshops to be held in GCS&C, in March 2012 prior to the “de-junk, re-junk” recycled art and craft exhibition in Birkenhead Park in July

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-20869779372185476112011-11-03T06:38:00.001-07:002011-11-03T06:38:44.539-07:00

Here are the links for me on the internet, there is lots of info out there already and very easy to find if you put my full name into google   Blog for my own work http://abscraft.blogspot.com/ My web site http://www.abscraft.com/ My own selling site http://www.etsy.com/shop/abscraft I started making jewellery from old necklaces when I was younger than you, and sold them to

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-79396883622935453742011-11-02T05:16:00.001-07:002011-11-02T05:19:59.574-07:00

Time 16 November · 11:00 - 13:00 Location Vanilla Lounge 6 Market Street Hoylake CH47 2AE Created by: "With These Hands", Alison Bailey Smith For"With These Hands" More info Wednesday morning get together for Wirral Visual artists, designer makers, gallery owners, arts educators etc to discuss projects, needs for studio space, need for models, plans for 2012 etc etc. Buy a

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-66706911032925766942011-10-19T09:30:00.000-07:002011-10-19T09:30:04.487-07:00

Welly Road gets the boot in! has a new blog

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-53387188566026579872011-10-10T01:47:00.000-07:002011-10-10T01:47:32.452-07:00

I did an interview in early summer in Home Cafe in Oxton Village with the very beautiful Miss Elizabeth Short. At the same time, was involved with loaning my corsets, jewellery and hats for photo shoot with make-up artist Persis Peters and photographer, Matt Kelly, thankfully as often happens all things came together at the right time and the results are in the October issue of Cheshire Life...

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-44634116146774356392011-10-05T00:21:00.000-07:002011-10-05T03:34:09.021-07:00

Time 11 October · 19:30 - 21:30 Location 49-51 Christchurch Road Oxton Birkenhead CH43 5SF Created by: Alison Bailey Smith For"With These Hands" More info Our next get together for the network for Wirral based artists, craftspeople and those working in the arts will be Tuesday 11th of October at 7.30pm until about 9.30pm at the The Green Community Shop and

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-83134523672729509162011-09-20T04:51:00.000-07:002011-09-20T04:51:05.058-07:00

Thank you to Laura Davis, arts reporter at Liverpool Daily Post for mentioning my work in her article about the Wirral Open Studio Tour along with many of the other participating artists. I have been able to join the tour because my time has been freed up from not organising and exhibiting this year at the Oxton Art Fair and the change of timing for WOST to September. It is rather exciting doing

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-67830825619117550132011-09-16T04:13:00.000-07:002011-09-16T04:13:27.774-07:00

I have had a busy schedule this year, in spite of pulling out of almost all my galleries and shops in January. I have been heavily involved in organising events in conjunction with Wirral Council and running my networking group "With These Hands" for visual artists in Wirral -becoming more of a promoter of events and organiser than an actual maker. I was able to return to the Williamson Art

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-67128002754382688362011-09-14T09:57:00.000-07:002011-09-14T10:04:22.233-07:00

MJMAN -  The Merseyside Jewellers and Metal Artists Network after a long break are serving a delicious smorgasbord of wearable contemporary jewellery designs inspired by food and fine dining at the Hope Street Hotel adjacent to London Carriage Works as part of Hope Street Festival - Feast. "Table for 8" exhibition - 1 day only ! Sunday 18th September 12-4pm Here are some snaps of my

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-35690827284758986232011-09-07T06:42:00.001-07:002011-09-07T06:53:02.905-07:00

I have been working on the idea for a community project for Oxton in a street called Wellington Road with shops and houses, schools nearby and churches. Yesterday I found out I had be successful in the grant application to fund the project (not me but all the materials and labour from others) so I am absolutely delighted...  Concept ideas only taken from the internet My apologies

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-55230359464935125082011-09-02T01:01:00.001-07:002011-09-02T01:01:56.118-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-79800369478939425712011-08-28T12:06:00.000-07:002011-08-28T12:07:45.388-07:00

More infoIn the light of our huge success with the de-junk, re-junk exhibition, I thought we should celebrate our achievement and move forward. So at this meeting, we will talk about the previous show and discuss the possibility of applying for The Empty Shop fund with the support of an organisational partner. They are interested in a shop which would combine needs of the community and

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-57470915828802257852011-08-21T07:28:00.000-07:002011-08-21T08:01:38.931-07:00

I am having a break from the Oxton Art Fair this year, although still involved and hope to return next year, it sadly clashes with some personal commitments so thankfully I can be involved with the Wirral Open Studio Tour and will relocating to Hoylake to Xitina Ferres' house on the prom along with Fiona Hardman. Looking forward to a different approach to selling my work and hope it is as

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-48674428731396247462011-08-12T13:09:00.001-07:002011-08-12T13:13:51.773-07:00

Abscraft, a photo by abscraft on Flickr.Latest shot from the colloborative shoot with Persis and Matt. I have one of my hats in the Talenthouse competition Peacock Hat and could do with some votes here It is made from wire I have reclaimed from old televisions and peacock fathers from the House of Binns just outside of Edinburgh. See more about it in my earlier post. Thanks for your support!

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-19249033026264302162011-08-12T05:41:00.000-07:002011-08-12T05:43:26.868-07:00

My Peacock feathered hat is in a competition and the voting starts very soon, could do with your support because I would love the prize and the recognition....go here to vote WHAT THE WINNERS WILL GET The winning hat will be displayed at the Bard Graduate Center Gallery for the duration of Hats: An Anthology (September 2011 - April 2012).The winner will also receive: - A two week

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-6294035418624076642011-08-08T07:43:00.000-07:002011-08-08T07:43:39.422-07:00

We had a table of junk at the de-junk, re-junk exhibition and this is our first submission from an artist in the making. Robot made by Daisy Walker, aged 6, from Wallasey

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-12098065866117110012011-07-29T06:59:00.000-07:002011-07-29T06:59:06.529-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-20094442097343216402011-07-19T00:17:00.000-07:002011-07-19T00:20:08.464-07:00

From today there will be a table of junk for you to take away to create your own re-junk, de-junk project, email me a small image to info@abscraft.com and then check out the blog in a few days....I will try to post as many as possible.....

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-68341330437608054942011-07-18T23:08:00.000-07:002011-07-18T23:11:57.356-07:00

What a fabulous opening with the Mayor and the councillors and all the artists! Big pat on the back everyone!Alison

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-15250168293559418322011-07-17T03:34:00.001-07:002011-07-17T03:35:43.410-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-50378934548060079232011-07-12T01:52:00.000-07:002011-07-12T01:55:25.579-07:00

18th to 31st July in Birkenhead Park Visitors CentreTitle: Cardiac Cycle Medium: Recycled ceramic plates, wall tiles & bicycle chain Size: 50.5cm x 40.5cm Price: £220 Description: Cardiac Cycle has been created using broken plates donated by family & friends, wall tiles left over from my colleague's bathroom re-fit & a rusty bicycle chain from Alison Bailey Smith. The backboard is a

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-40517373116376511322011-07-10T02:04:00.001-07:002011-07-10T02:07:03.173-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-10580866211729842622011-07-08T23:40:00.000-07:002011-07-08T23:44:25.181-07:00

'Wire Crochet' most interesting group photos on FlickriverI can recommend many books for people who would like to get into wirework but the bible of all is Arlene Fisch's Textile Techniques in Metal. Personally, I feel she gets too bogged down in the technique sometimes, but her work like Nora Fok is absolutely inspirational. Seems to be rather a lot of knitted little bracelets with beads

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-89452705832770990152011-07-03T03:41:00.001-07:002011-07-03T03:45:18.178-07:00

It will all kick off again for de-junk, re-junk with new work from some of the artists already included in the earlier show in March and some new work from new artists. Claire Blakeborough attended our last With These Hands meeting, the networking event that I run for wirral based visual artists and has jumped in with both hands.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-46169906654922931172011-06-21T01:19:00.000-07:002011-06-21T01:21:24.088-07:00

Please publicise this wonderful eventPress release Merseyside based artists use rubbish to recreate into artwork and craftwork to be displayed in the Birkenhead Park Visitors Centre from the 18th of July until the 31st of July. This follows on from last year's more community based exhibition in May 2010 in the Park which provided an overview of what is happening with creative recycling

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-68709538042944888362011-06-20T05:33:00.000-07:002011-06-20T05:38:28.504-07:00

The next With These Hands will be a morning event on Monday the 11th of July at 10am and will be at The Green Community Shop and Centre where we can make drinks etc (for a donation) or if you want something fancier like a cappuccino, stop off at Home Cafe or The Twins or Tea for Two nearby. The Green Shop is situated on Christchurch Road and was the site of our last evening meeting. We have

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-77000887243421725612011-06-12T00:39:00.000-07:002011-06-12T00:45:16.002-07:00

A reminder to all those attending the get-together on Wednesday The Green Community Shop and Centre at 7pm, bring food to share and some cutlery and a plate to eat from. If bringing a bottle, make it screwtop.Location:49-51 Christchurch Road, Oxton/Birkenhead, United KingdomWe will all do a round-robin introduction for everyone and then will go back to people who have specific projects on in more

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-37367942544077464022011-05-23T09:09:00.001-07:002011-05-23T09:17:50.504-07:00

I have made paper for years, can't even remember how I got started apart from that it was when I lived in Australia...I have made paper with kids over the years at the local school and with different groups. This time the mix was a little lumpy so made books rather than give the kids flat sheets....so the weekend has spent making up 80 books for Year One...enough for the teachers too.Rip up good

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-47124608696746462082011-05-18T00:20:00.000-07:002011-05-18T00:33:11.725-07:00

The Green Community Shop and Centre is the venue for our next meeting, and we can bring our own food to share and wine or soft drinks. Please leave a financial donation or bring something for the charity shop to sell. The centre has a large playroom and trestle tables so we can be easily accomodated and will eliminate the issue we have been having with noise in the last two cafes we have met at.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-67642948564798339442011-05-11T00:35:00.001-07:002011-05-11T00:35:49.075-07:00

Next "With These Hands meeting Tuesday 17 May · 10:00 - 12.00: -wirral artists network, lots of chat and exchanging of ideasand we will be joined by our partners in de-junk, re-junk from Wirral CouncilFeel free to bring small examples of work and business cards to share.TimeTuesday 17 May · 10:00 - 12.00Location4 Acacia Grove Wirral, Merseyside CH48 4DD 0151 625 7555Created by:"With These

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-39994967070364767552011-05-07T02:02:00.001-07:002011-05-07T02:02:33.772-07:00

windaes, a photo by abscraft on Flickr.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-73726147375328720232011-05-03T15:29:00.001-07:002011-05-03T15:41:00.790-07:00

I have been creating some giant flowers based on my small vintage/retro rossette brooches made from tape measures, buttons and my drawings for The Creative Curtain Company in Oxton. These larger ones are made using old wall paper from Pat and Kim in the shop, measuring tapes, old plastic strapping, floristry wire....just got to get them there and install them now.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-54449933881493589752011-04-26T02:10:00.000-07:002011-04-26T02:18:06.828-07:00

has received a copy of "Jewelry from Found Objects" with a photo of my brooch http://www.alibris.co.uk/search/books/isbn/9780811706025Photo by Richard Jennings of Cetra Gallery in Heswall, Merseyside

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-61532766170509161432011-04-24T00:47:00.001-07:002011-04-24T00:51:40.790-07:00

PHOENIX EGG & PYRE, a photo by abscraft on Flickr.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-31677838737322280112011-04-14T03:41:00.000-07:002011-04-14T03:50:16.644-07:00

With These Hands goes to Birkenhead Park for 10 am at Cappucinos in the Park tomorrow (Friday 15th of April)....I will bring some rubbish for anyone wanting to get on board for the next outing of the "de-junk, re-junk' exhibition...16 to 31st of July, some work to return to some of you for storage until then and will tell you all about my new project for Wellington Road...bring business cards and

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-77747535688394173062011-04-12T10:43:00.000-07:002011-04-12T10:44:02.211-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-35000248201701668132011-04-06T02:48:00.001-07:002011-04-06T03:15:41.535-07:00

Lovely work from the embroiderers who used funky foam, toothpaste tubes, plastic packaging, ribbon and laminated odds and ends to create brooches, necklaces and haircombs in a short workshop from 9 until 1 last Saturday in Wirral.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-36405191048730695252011-04-05T08:47:00.000-07:002011-04-05T08:50:13.881-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-80678620638706911762011-03-30T02:12:00.001-07:002011-03-30T02:12:51.290-07:00

You are invited to the next With These Hands get together on the 15th of April at 10 am until noon Networking event for Wirral based visual artists, craftspeople, film-makers, gallery owners, studio tour folks, folks looking for a studio, folks looking for art classes or groups etc all meet once a month for an informal chat. WTH virgins always welcome!With These Hands - Networking over a cuppa!

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-47107735423366715282011-03-23T07:47:00.000-07:002011-03-23T07:56:37.491-07:00

I was delighted that the mayor came along to the Tidy Business conference today as part of Wirral Council environment week which saw a community forum event yesterday and eco schools event this evening. Enviro Champs yesterday recognised community groups and individuals involved with eco worthy projects. The exhibition I co-ordinated de-junk, re-junk was part of the event to highlight what can be

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-9839401482918094082011-03-17T06:05:00.001-07:002011-03-17T06:15:41.349-07:00

Alternative chain of office for the mayor of WirralMade by me, from metal and plastic recycled from old packaging from toothpaste tubes, tomato puree tubes, ointment, plastic trays from smoked salmon, a ring pull, recycled lead for weight, wire from old televisions, an old bracelet from a friend and sewn together using needles from my Granny's sewing box.I trained as jeweller but my Granny was

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-537337782899874772011-03-17T06:02:00.001-07:002011-03-17T06:05:03.769-07:00

Mandy Oliphant has transformed my cheap decorative bird house into something magical and full of character...called "motherboard speaking"

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-19307484011868686052011-03-17T05:54:00.000-07:002011-03-17T06:01:50.475-07:00

These are lovely embroidered and fused pieces by Jo Smith for the de-junk, re-junk show made from colourful plastic bags."I was born and brought up on the Wirral, went to Lancaster University and left with a B Ed (hons) in Art and Design. From there I've done many things, including three years of jewellery training, several years of counselling training and having my family.Over the last few

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-38277853628559837852011-03-15T03:23:00.000-07:002011-03-15T03:48:47.760-07:00

More developments from artists already featured in my updates and work from one of our first collectors of my junk, Marie Louise Williams. Marie and I work together during the summer months as artist/teachers for the summer art workshops at the Williamson Art Gallery. Marie was very excited by the springs from an old sofa and parts of a broken cafetiere. Micheline has added colour to her hand

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-86650629228548055922011-03-14T02:28:00.000-07:002011-03-14T02:45:44.994-07:00

The "Before" shots!The collection of all the junk and some of the de-junkers prior to becoming re-junkers!

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-24345945414533721372011-03-14T02:08:00.001-07:002011-03-14T02:21:43.565-07:00

Barbara Harrison's contribution to the 'de-junk, re-junk" show has used a donation from another friend of mine, of a board she previously used for displaying her jewellery. I would imagine the cork board was originally bought from the Green Community Shop and Centre that many of us frequent for materials and clothes and Fairtrade products - all the money is put back directly into our own

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-90558761309180757032011-03-13T00:59:00.001-08:002011-03-13T06:40:28.088-07:00

Susan Brown is a fine art artist who studied in California. As part of her course she discovered puppet making and has continued making puppets for over 30 years. Puppets from recycled materials can be dynamic and interesting as puppets don't need to 'be' anything and often evolve to be themselves from the material available. Examples here are mouth puppets, sock puppets (but this one is made

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-7380477405688252372011-03-11T02:20:00.000-08:002011-03-17T07:40:26.729-07:00

Yesterday's instalment prompted more photos from the participating artists so I thought I would share them...Istra Toner's piece is called "Memories of love" and is made from a memory box I was given by a local friend, who knew I used to use similar boxes to display my jewellery. Istra is newcomer to my networking group "With These Hands" and divides her time between Wirral and her homeland of

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-55066279761911521792011-03-10T05:25:00.000-08:002011-03-17T07:39:41.515-07:00

I am currently organising a two part exhibition for Wirral Council to tie in with their various community events to highlight all things enviro in the region. I have handed out "junk" to my network of artists, de-junking my house prior to a major build and asking them to "re-junk"them into something of value. Artists often refer to their prized pieces as their junk in their studio or their stuff

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-7758396427926451172011-03-02T12:30:00.000-08:002011-03-02T12:34:45.266-08:00

Click on the posting heading to take you to Etsy where you will find my "Pretty Sale" with my laminated 3d brooches in recycled pouches - beautiful gift for yourself, for Easter,for Mother's Day - to wear or add to curtains...

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-6839505354984791702011-02-28T11:57:00.000-08:002011-03-01T11:49:28.003-08:00

I am organising an exhibition called "de-Junk, re-Junk" to tie in with an environmental conference being run from Pacific Road Arts Centre for 3 days in March. I was approached last year to help with a more community based overview of what is happening with creative recycling in Wirral and add additional artists like myself who work with recycled materials. This exhibition was organised by Daniel

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-20398878921360971432011-02-25T08:57:00.000-08:002011-02-25T10:53:13.192-08:00

On the 15th of March at 7pm until 9pm, we are going to meet at The Coffee Shop, 24 Wellington Road, Oxton CH43 2JE for the usual monthly get-together for Wirral based artists, photographers, craftspeople and galleries (round the corner from St Saviour's and the Caeonarvon pub) where we had the last meeting. The cafe has offered us the space for the evening, with 20% discount on food and tea at £1

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-81275753251796520822011-02-16T15:12:00.001-08:002011-02-19T08:10:07.632-08:00

My corset at the Recycled Fashion ShopOriginally uploaded by abscraftI took part in a community fashion show tonight with lots of people modelling recycled and vintage clothing from the local charity shop in aid of community centres locally. This young lady modelled my corset and wants to get into modelling. There are more images on here http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=623775&id=742795170&l

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-84732870737710975192011-02-12T15:37:00.001-08:002011-02-12T15:37:10.822-08:00

Etsyabscraft

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-33223424080138218252011-02-10T05:00:00.000-08:002011-02-10T05:12:58.286-08:00

Click on link to take you to Facebook event listing (if you are on Facebook)With These Hands is a networking event for Wirral based creative types of all hues. Come and chat with like-minded people at The Coffee Shop on 24 Wellington Road in Oxton (CH43 2JE) 9.30 til 11.30 on Monday 14th of February, Valentines Day.Tea £1 Coffee £1.20 special price.Breakfast and snacks available.Parking on street

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-27581294579360741472011-01-31T05:59:00.000-08:002011-01-31T06:01:57.299-08:00

The recycling show is open to all Merseyside wide artists, there is no title as yet but playing around with simple ideas like "JUNK!" or "reclaimed", "repurposed".The exhibition is tying on with a conference being run by Wirral Council, the event is over 3 days, Held at Pacific Road Theatre Starting on Tuesday 22nd March. These are the specific events that will be going on:-Tuesday 22nd March:

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-18590005545281843202011-01-21T15:56:00.000-08:002011-01-21T15:57:58.379-08:00

Click on my title above and it will take you to my Etsy site and the works I have chosen for drama from around the world...

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-28390002408905310772011-01-11T23:56:00.000-08:002011-01-12T00:26:25.061-08:00

Made a bit of a radical decision for 2011 and pulled most of my work from galleries (still to collect from some in Wirral and 1 in Liverpool). I am going to go online and do some more direct selling eventually. The market seems to have dropped out of galleries and shops....might do exhibition work for galleries but the more "stock" like items will now be direct from me. I was about to ramp up my

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-61669154577970724552011-01-11T04:23:00.001-08:002011-01-11T04:23:01.230-08:00

JUNK JEWELLERY RosetteOriginally uploaded by abscraftI will be covering both my wire work and plastic work in the jewellery workshop on the 12th of February, onlya few places left so feel free to contact me on here or through my fab page on Facebook to book or go on my mailing list.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-41399140390061344782011-01-08T07:05:00.000-08:002011-01-08T07:10:41.821-08:00

I am in the running for the Craft & Design selected Awards, I am a little cynical about this as it is all about creating traffic for the magazine & the site but on the plus point, I don't actually have a problem with that as it is a good magazine...I don't subscribe as yet too it as I subscribe to Crafts Magazine and Artist Newsletter....so anyway vote for me if you like & enjoy looking at the

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-79927892807289318362011-01-04T01:16:00.001-08:002011-01-04T01:16:38.323-08:00

Brooch toothpasteOriginally uploaded by abscraftwww.abscraft.com is organising a workshop for the 12th of February 2011 for making jewellery from recycled materials in Merseyside....anyone who has missed past workshops or would like to join us, please contact me if you are interested£20 per person in advance with a £5 material charge on the day

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-10742829172215259222010-12-19T05:23:00.000-08:002010-12-19T05:26:17.224-08:00

JEWELLERY WORKSHOP to create your own piece of jewellery from recycled materials with Alison Bailey SmithWorkshop on the 12th of February 2011Saturday St Saviours Parish CentreBidston Road at Gerald RoadOxton, WirralParking on Street (not in pub car-park)Food outlets nearby for lunch Tea and Coffee providedPlaces limited to 12 maximum---------------------------------------------------------------

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-22871163889413732582010-12-09T12:22:00.002-08:002010-12-09T12:45:07.934-08:00

More precisely, my artwork at my place of work. As many of you know I am a curator for 2Bio Ltd at MerseyBIO at the University of Liverpool and normally keep my creative works out of my job but today my two worlds collided and I exhibited my work as part of The Twelve Working days til Christmas, felt like my two words collide - funny really, cos I do have an alter ego when I work there....with a

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-19361207729708423172010-11-29T01:54:00.000-08:002010-11-29T01:59:56.064-08:00

Please email alison.roberts@2bio.co.uk is you would like to be invited as it is in a secure building in the University of Liverpool campus.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-40941446332583012392010-11-20T12:01:00.000-08:002010-11-20T12:09:39.653-08:00

Oxton Art Fair needs young people aged 14 to 16 to enter Ken Peacock’s art prize at the Williamson from 10 to 2pmtomorrow.The art prize is open to children who produce an artwork in the gallery. Paper, pencils & inspiration provided. Categories are 5-8, 9 -13 & 14-16. At the moment, loads of contenders for the younger categories but none for the older ones.Prize for the one judged in each

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-52650698150107298662010-11-18T15:20:00.003-08:002010-11-18T15:21:32.462-08:00

We are setting up the 7th annual Oxton Art Fair and taking over 4 gallery rooms at the Williamson Art Gallery in Birkenhead for our annual Oxton Art Fair this weekend. I am proud to say that we have built up a great reputation since the fair was started by a group of friends in 2004. The Fair is known for showing a mixture of artists who exhibit regularly in Liverpool and beyond, and those who

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-79188664283173788732010-11-08T05:13:00.001-08:002010-11-08T05:13:55.257-08:00

DSCF4711aOriginally uploaded by dave_venablesOur opening at The Six Rooms Gallery last Thursday, our temporary project in Hamilton Square. Taken by visitor Dave Venables. If you click on the image it should go to his Flickr page and the images are for sale.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-4928754454953959922010-11-07T04:51:00.000-08:002010-11-07T04:56:31.042-08:00

I ran a workshop yesterday from Oxton Saint Saviours Church with 10 ladies, who upcycled bags I have collected from charity shops - taffeta/satin evening bags and revamped with their own creations.I enjoy teaching and especially a group of ladies like this who don't necessarily get an opportunity to regularly get together and show their creative side. I can offer textile techniques and jewellery

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-43976893568333720082010-11-01T04:40:00.000-07:002010-11-01T04:43:27.785-07:00

7th annual Oxton Art FairFor the 7th year, the Oxton Artists are taking over 4 gallery rooms at the Williamson Art Gallery in Birkenhead for their annual Oxton Art Fair on the weekend of the 20 and 21st of November. The fair has a wonderful reputation of showing a mixture of artists who exhibit regularly in Liverpool and beyond, and those who only participate in the Oxton Art Fair, exhibiting a

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-64638312713001565612010-10-20T13:37:00.000-07:002010-10-20T14:02:45.383-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-84231674034422548242010-10-06T15:52:00.000-07:002010-10-06T15:57:05.251-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-82516091080091822722010-10-05T15:42:00.000-07:002010-10-05T15:45:49.356-07:00

Click on the heading for this posting and it will take you to my etsy shop (ebay equivalent for handmade). Please excuse the bizarre prices...I did a conversion into American Dollars and now they have converted it back so slightly different from my original starting point but a mere matter of pence rather than pounds so I not bothered and I hope you're not too!

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-72848241342877904862010-09-24T09:05:00.000-07:002010-10-05T15:42:21.860-07:00

The Slightly Light NightOpen eveningOctober 14 20105 to 8pmHome Cafe at Woodside Ferry TerminalBirkenhead5.30 until 8pm at The Six Rooms Gallery26 Argyle StreetBirkenheadWirral, CH41 6AE7pm until 10pm at The Lauries Centre142 Claughton Road, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH41 6EYThe Slightly Light Night is a public art evening planned for the 14th of October in Birkenhead of 3 venues.Venue One: Home Cafe

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-89476791550404001142010-09-22T10:37:00.001-07:002010-09-22T10:37:34.578-07:00

Hello there,Just an update on what is going on for me, my artwork and various projects.The Six Rooms Gallery is a temporary exhibition space at 26 Argyle Street, Birkenhead, and has been curated by Theresia Cadwallader and is offering 3 exhibitions for the duration of Liverpool Independents as part of the Biennial. I am showing some of my exhibition pieces of jewellery and objects in Group One.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-91253147818553391382010-09-20T14:46:00.000-07:002010-09-20T14:49:17.112-07:00

You are invited to our "WITH THESE HANDS" meeting at the Six Rooms Gallery, Monday 4th of October 10 am - 12 noonBring something to sit on and bring something to drink (loads of coffee shops nearby)The Six Rooms Gallery open at 11.30 26 Argyle Street, Birkenhead, pay parking on street or bus stops nearby or closest train station to Hamilton Square.An opportunity to chat with other like-minded

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-82373586341545554142010-09-17T05:52:00.001-07:002010-09-17T05:52:27.413-07:00

PhoenixOriginally uploaded by abscraft

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-81706357182479105902010-09-17T05:47:00.001-07:002010-09-17T05:47:52.214-07:00

PHOENIX EGG & PYREOriginally uploaded by abscraftAt The Six Rooms Gallery until the begining of October.26 Argyle StreetBirkenhead

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-7737862819060093372010-09-09T16:03:00.001-07:002010-09-09T16:03:57.421-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-75504862265112869342010-09-05T02:24:00.000-07:002010-09-05T02:29:19.646-07:00

I am involved with a major project as part of the Independents called The Six Rooms Gallery, there will be three exhibitions during the time of the Independents. The gallery space has been organised by Theresia Cadwallader along with all the exhibitors (over 30 in total). I am hoping to make work based on the Biennial theme of Touched. I will be running a recycling handbag workshop on the 25th of

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-84693130203938794582010-08-17T05:51:00.001-07:002010-08-17T06:14:44.754-07:00

I have just created an new group on Facebook called Art on Wirral - the Left Bank of the Mersey for artist, arts organisations and galleries to join to get a comprehensive overview of visual arts in Wirral. I had meeting with Steve Maddox, who is the chief Executive of Wirral Council last week with Theresia Cadwallader and Micheline Robinson about our collective desire to promote art and artists

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-41259944975383226052010-08-10T23:53:00.000-07:002010-08-10T23:54:55.519-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-19602631714967324062010-08-07T04:01:00.000-07:002010-08-07T04:02:20.978-07:00

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-58390656478494763902010-08-07T02:46:00.000-07:002010-08-07T02:55:38.991-07:00

I have jewellery and a customised Davida Helmet in a nice little show in Garston open to the public Saturday 7th of August until 10th of September. Gallery is open Thurs toSaturday 1 to 5pm. 26 Duke Street Garston, off Wellington Road (nearthe Wellington Pub). I am sure if you can't make those times Alex willopen it up for you 0776 338 8509Helmet Flash Gordon StyleBy Alison Bailey SmithDecorated

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-20136015844320920702010-07-31T04:57:00.000-07:002010-08-14T00:16:37.850-07:00

I have agreed to fill in for someone who has dropped out of an extra LOACA arts event at the Bluecoat called "Above The Beaten Track", looks like a major music event which we will be tapping into (and along to).Here is the blurb:-Above The Beaten Track is a festival celebrating the creative grass roots scene of Liverpool, featuring live music and DJs, performance art, poetry and audio-visual

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-58110790293479339312010-07-31T04:34:00.001-07:002010-07-31T04:37:23.310-07:00

I will be exhibiting in 2 locations during the Liverpool Independents, at the exciting communal house called the 6 Rooms Gallery,in Birkenhead curated by Theresia Cadwallader (another Oxton Artist) in September to October and with the Oxton Art Fair in November.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-8691945761341198092010-07-27T16:51:00.000-07:002010-07-27T17:04:37.998-07:00

An old contact of mine Daisy has written a book about Fred, the man about town with a hat for every occasion. Fred is extremely proud of his hat collection. But when the queen comes to visit, Fred’s hobby lands him in hot water! He is getting about a bit, popping up in all the best places so I have offered to make him a special hat! So Daisy and Fred came for a fitting this morning.

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-72920490753794506572010-07-07T15:42:00.001-07:002010-07-07T15:42:18.361-07:00

New laminated brooches July 2010Originally uploaded by abscraftMy drawings laminated and layered with recycled plastic packaging and donated Funky Foam from a ex-ECA sculptor who I have become reacquainted with on FACEBOOK, great to see at least two of us are still active 20 years on....there are loads more to be honest...it was a very good year.These brooches have been developing and part of my

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-71879093135219531382010-06-30T01:40:00.000-07:002010-06-30T01:42:12.532-07:00

Date: Thursday, 01 July 2010Time: 15:00 - 20:00Location: The Stables Gallery, Brimstage Hall Courtyard, Brimstage Road, Wirral, CH63 6JACOME AND PREVIEW TWO NEW LOCAL ARTISTS AND ENJOY A FREE GLASS OF WINE & REFRESHMENTS.- Steven Seddon will be previewing an array of his resin on canvas work and will also be bringing his very own hand made full sized dalek!- Exciting intricate scroll work in

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-41562746308267984382010-06-22T12:40:00.000-07:002010-06-22T12:42:37.020-07:00

Abscraft will be at the Feel Good Fairs on Liverpool's famous waterfront on Saturday 17 July and Sunday 18 July from 12 until to 5pm

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-3849375102746430092010-06-22T11:17:00.000-07:002010-06-22T11:22:12.674-07:00

Our June "With These Hands" meeting for all Wirral creatives will be 7pm on Wednesday the 30th of June at the Green Community Shop and Centre in Oxton. The Green Community Shop and Centre, 49-51 Christchurch Road Birkenhead, United KingdomBring a plate of food to share, whatever you like to eat, bring a plate, cutlery and a glass. Bring a bottle (screw top only) to share. The room has tables and

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-5266736454729395652010-06-18T04:55:00.000-07:002010-06-20T09:03:08.698-07:00

Click the heading to take you to my latest interviewhttp://www.sevenstreets.com/features/the-wire-3/

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4995070431778677999.post-82646508382682803442010-06-11T05:43:00.001-07:002010-06-11T05:45:21.591-07:00

EarringsOriginally uploaded by abscraftMy new work with laminated pictures, photos of my work and my botanical studies with recycled materials or wrapping paper. Durable. Range is all priced at £14 for earrings or brooches and all comes in their own recycled packaging.Editions on Cook Street in LiverpoolLandbaby at The Bluecoat in LiverpoolThe Stables Gallery, Brimstage, WirralWork also

Alison Bailey Smithnoreply@blogger.com0