The Grand Hand Gallery

Metal in May: Featured Artist Melody Tudisco

2011-05-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

Motivated by experimentation with angles and negative space, Melody Tudisco creates both edgy, bold jewelry from oxidized silver and gold and wall pieces from manipulated and painted copper. “My world is made up of textures and layers,” she states. “As a child in the country, I spent hours looking for and picking up rusty nails on our sandy hilly driveway after a rainstorm. My dad would pay me a penny a nail. Two cents if it were a larger nail, or a piece of wire. I can still see the rusty textured layers; the burnt orange, sienna, and sometimes a hint of blue-green patina. This corroded metal intrigued me and still does.

I am energized by the reaction and the texture that is created on metal when I torture it with heat, pounding, or paint. Metal doesn’t move easily and I love the coaxing of it to give it a tactile life. I become impelled to produce structure and density where there once was smoothness. Of all my tools, my favorites are an old railroad rail and a chewed up copper mallet. When I use these tools they create my personal marks and textures that are individual only to my work."

Left: Joanna, wearing Melody's oxidized silver Multi Chain necklace, with the artist's copper and acrylic wall piece. See more on Melody's work here.

New Work from Deborah Foutch Featured in April

2011-04-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Fiber artist Deborah Foutch attributes her palette and her sense of line, light and space to the landscape of her native Iowa. “The rhythm of seasonal change, the flow of rivers, the roll of land, the grace of trees, and the abounding variety of light are recurring subjects, awakened in childhood,” she notes about her work.

Deborah’s process involves a variety of techniques. Working with fabric, thread, paint and found objects she produces lustrous and delicate topographies of embroidery and appliqué. “I sculpt, sew, paint, ink, tear apart and recombine, tell stories with texture and dimension, using layers to reflect the visual abundance in which we live.”

The Minneapolis artist holds a BA in Art and another in History from University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. She regularly shows her work at galleries in New York and New Mexico and maintains an active exhibition schedule at venues including the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, the American Craft Council Show in St. Paul and the Powderhorn Art Fair in Minneapolis. Her work has earned purchase awards at the Sun Valley Arts and Crafts Festival in Idaho and the Southwest Arts Festival in Albuquerque, NM. The artist relishes working under exhibition deadlines as she feels the discipline keeps her work fresh and her skills sharp.

Deborah's statement about her River Lights series:

Flow

All of the pieces I call River Lights (detail at left) grew out of a summer evening standing on the Ford Parkway Bridge over the Mississippi River. It was one of those summer evenings that you sometimes get but are not guaranteed in our muggy Midwest. It was not hot, not cool, not damp, or dry. The air seemed kind on my skin. I believe it was August because the trees had that reaching to the leaf tip greenness they get at the end of summer. There was a cloudbank on the eastern horizon and I headed to the river to watch the sunset. I parked on the west bank and walked across the bridge to the east bank then went back to the center. I stood facing north watching the light go by, watching the surface of the water. There were greens, blues, grays, and browns that were joined by purple shadows, and pink coppery highlights reflecting the cloudbank absorbing the red light. There were ever changing textures on the surface of the moving water. The bright tips created by air moving one way and the water another danced here then over there, all of it moving, changing, new with every glance from one aspect to another. I stayed watching until the river seemed to consist of variations of murky yet steely grays, blues, and browns. I watched the flow of the river and the ebbing of the light entirely rapt, trying to catch the moment when change happened. But it was just gradual flow. The best I could do was record in my mind’s eye the moment to moment details my attention is capable of, then hope to bank them for when I need to call on them to tell me if the thing I am creating has some visual truth. I have been using that experience for more than a year to create the pieces I call River Lights. Sometimes I can call up a specific story of where and when I noticed my place as an observer and re-interpreter of flowing life and light. And sometimes it’s just part of what's present from watching the world and practicing my craft. I don't recall exactly what moment I'm calling on. I've simply stepped into a stream of the observed and I exercise skills honed to create my version of the world.

Deborah Foutch

As a fiber artist, Deborah studies the effect of light on her assemblages and often plays with a variety of materials and textures. In her recent series of bird drawings, Deborah explores the application of oil pastel to archival paper. Crow is pictured below.

Featured in March ... metal artist Bob Rickard

2011-03-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

During a 30 year career in computer software, Bob Rickard avidly pursued his passion for “puttering out in the garage.” Combining knowledge from an early stint as a theatrical stage designer with an interest in industrial tools, he eventually found that his favorite material was metal. Bob’s process, he states, is to “harness the myriad properties of metals: their rigidity, their pliability, and their essential chemical make-up.” His work ranges from furniture and wall pieces to his distinctive line of KronosWorks clocks.

After using a hand-held plasma cutter to carve his designs into a base metal, most often steel or aluminum, the artist coats each sculpture with other metals, typically copper, bronze and iron. Each of these metals reacts differently to the chemical patinas and dye oxides with which the pieces are finished, creating a rich palette of hues.

Bob attributes the quiet, calm quality of his work to the landscape surrounding his Taos, NM studio.

Pictured above: Country Blues Diptych, 24" x 37"; below: Hill and Dale Diptych, 24" x 37"
Contact the gallery for availability.

Featured Artist for February: Marilyn Cuellar

2011-02-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

Marilyn Cuellar, a Cambridge, MN artist, works with graphite to render detailed botanical and architectural studies and well-considered portraits.

Marilyn’s artist statement:

The Details of Life
I find my vision in the details of life. My art brings out the subtle details in its subjects, creating a picture of life more particular than the fleeting glance with which we normally look at the world.

Perception
The representational drawings I create are rich in depth and character when viewed from a distance. Viewed more closely, emphasis on details and texture create an abstract inner-life.

Technique
I draw with graphite, using a palette of white to black and all of the tonal variations between. This allows me to explore complexity in texture and shape in seemingly simple images. It is the effect of light and the shadows it creates that define my images – not lines.

Vision
My artistic touch is the final element in the process. When I view an image and apply the pencil to the board, it is my vision of the image that is brought to life.

When you look closely at my work, mark every detail. That is where the life of my art truly is.

Marilyn's notes on the work:

Ukrainian Women Series - Maria and Inna
Graphite on Archival Board

The faces of these women, Maria and Inna, reflect their strong characters and difficult lives. With the draping of their babushkas and pattern of clothing, a softness is added; and the contrast of complementary textures in the clothing enhances the lines etched in the women’s faces. Both women invite the viewer to pause and engage in conversation, especially Inna (on the right) whose gentle eyes are always seeking out the viewer, at any angle. Both women reside in a rest home in Chigirin, Ukraine.

Slice of Autumn Series #2
Graphite on Archival Board

Using the image of the maple tree framed by our front window, realism and abstraction combine in this view of just a slice of autumn leaves. As the piece can be hung vertically or horizontally, a vertical presentation suggests a “water/flowing” view while a “land/grounded” view is suggested by a horizontal presentation.

Daru Mother and Child
Graphite on Archival Board

This young mother and child (Mariama and Rokey) look at the world from different vantage points. From the Village of Daru, The Gambia, West Africa, Mariama was our daughter’s closest friend while she served in Daru through the Peace Corps. My husband and I visited the village in 125 degree F. weather. When Rokey was born, Mariama gave her the same name as my daughter was given in the village. The delicate features of Mariama’s clothing tie mother and child together. Three elements are at work in this drawing: design, texture, and the life portrayed in the faces of the subjects.

The artist holds a BA from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, and takes part in a local mentoring group to shape her artistic vision. She exhibits her work at juried shows throughout the Midwest, often winning honors including multiple Best of Show titles.

Works by Marilyn Cuellar are on view at The Grand Hand throughout the month of February.

Our January Featured Artist: Barbara Evan

2011-01-03T19:34:00.000-08:00

St. Paul painter Barbara Evan’s works in oil are composed with intuitive line and form and are typically rich with color. The artist holds degrees in English from the University of South Dakota and in Studio Arts from the University of Minnesota. She maintains a studio in the Lowertown neighborhood and is a regular participant in the twice-yearly St. Paul Art Crawl: her images are regularly selected by jury to promote the event. Barbara is a member of the Women’s Art Registry of Minnesota (W.A.R.M).

About her current work, the Barbara states, "Before starting a painting I set myself an elusive problem, like seeing if three unlikely colors can work together, or seeing how many layers I can build up and still see through to the first one, or finding out what a pile of lumpy stone-shapes would look like, or all of these at once. I work in terms of time, watching intently, feeling and seeing the different effects of deliberation and speed. If I hit a dead end I might wipe out large sections, then use what remains as a basis for the next version. Gradually – and sometimes after dozens of layers and wipeouts – it turns into something: it has a certain combination of formal balance and emotional content that reflects an inner, inarticulate part of me. My work is perhaps a kind of inchoate writing."

Some of the paintings on view throughout January at The Grand Hand, along with the artist's notes on the work, include:

Garden (pictured above): I deliberately set out to make something beautiful, which usually means ending up with a mess. That happened this time too, but I kept at it until this painting emerged. I love how a few faint lines (like the barely noticeable pink streaks along the bottom) are terribly important, and some of the bold strokes, which could have ruined the whole thing, fit right in.

Straightened Curly Leaf is the gradual abstraction of a curly leaf Aralia frond. There are several other versions. One was full of brilliant colors (Bold Curly Leaf). Then I painted over it with beige (Muted Curly Leaf) and, surprisingly, that made it glow. This one is more controlled, hence the name, but it has its own kind of mystery.

Silly Girl is based on a tiny sketch from several years ago. Stone shapes or perhaps crystals float in the air, with a delicate figure holding things in place. They are stones or heavy clouds, ponderous but suspended in a field of bright, cheerful washes of color. Silly girl is strong enough to not worry about appearing silly.

Untitled started out as a black, gray and white boulder on a solid white background. People who didn’t expect to like it, liked it. It looked heavy and real, even though it wasn’t much more than a line drawing. But it sat there for a couple of years, too tempting to leave alone, so I tried adding paint. After several disasters, a wipeout, and finally several layers of insubstantial circles, it turned into this painting. A black circle sits in the center, against all the rules, right where it belongs.

Entrance was difficult. They are almost always difficult, but this one more so because I was trying to show language emerging from layers of shapes that alluded to letters or symbols. I couldn’t do it. It was becoming a doodle, and doodles don’t count as art. Finally, I just let it be a really intricate doodle that’s also a kind of puzzle or a snarl. It’s kind of a free-form mandala, with simultaneous agitation and stillness. Entrance has two meanings, of course.

Most of Barbara’s paintings have a documented history because she takes photographs along the way. Earlier versions of her works may be available as small booklets or prints.

December's Featured Artists: Barbara Keith and Chuck Solberg

2010-12-09T21:18:00.000-08:00

Barbara Keith is a glass mosaic artist based in Lanesboro, MN. We've loved her landscapes and animal studies for years - her latest charming series of small (8" x 8") cat portraits captures a range of feline moods.

"During the time I was working on these cats," Barb explains, "a kitten showed up at our very rural home, probably dumped with it's litter mates on the road. So now Ollie has become part our our family! It was so much fun to be working on these cats while the new kitten and I discovered happiness with our new situation. Cats have such a universal appeal, and I decided to give them universal names, translating 'cat' into a number of languages." (Gato is pictured above.)

The artist also crafts fun bird ornaments that have flown into the gallery this season!

Click HERE for more on Barbara's work.

St. Paul’s Chuck Solberg is a nationally recognized clay artist and, with his keyboard, serves as The Grand Hand’s always popular “house band.” Chuck’s work in wood fired stoneware and porcelain is included in the permanent collections of the Weisman Art Museum, The Minnesota Historical Society, the University of Wisconsin and numerous private collections. He was awarded a prestigious Jerome Grant for his work with sagger firing. As a musician, Chuck has toured with Luther Allison and played with BB King, Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry.

See an expanded array of Chuck's work at the gallery through December and hear the artist in action with his keyboard midday on Saturday, December 11 and during Guys' Night, Thursday, December 16 from 5-9 PM.

Click HERE for more on Chuck's work.

Your Grand Hand Staff

2010-12-02T21:56:00.000-08:00

Susan Clayton is the Grand Hand gallery manager and has been on staff since October 2004. She is a former curator of art at the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, where she earned an MA in Art History and Art Exhibition. Susan’s academic research focuses on Minnesota artists and arts institutions.

Linda LaNasa came to The Grand Hand as a longtime collector of Minnesota craft. Linda is especially knowledgeable about our local artists and their work, and has a knack for finding the perfect hand crafted piece to enhance your home, your wardrobe or to give as a gift.

Joanna Scavone (left) recently launched and now coordinates the gallery’s online shopping services. She is a painter and a graduate student specializing in arts and cultural management at St. Mary’s University in Minneapolis.

Brad Homan brings his gifts for organization and “getting it done” to our gallery space. He is a packaging specialist at General Mills and is also a patent-holding inventor!

Rachel Nusbaum (right) is a print artist and a recent graduate of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. She coordinates the gallery’s offerings in woodblock, linocut and etching and our great selection of greeting cards. For more on Rachel’s work, visit www.rachelnusbaum.com.

Jan Painter, a photographer, art collector and neighborhood resident, has been a helpful friend to the gallery since it began and pitches in behind the sales desk when we need her most. (Jan is wearing pieces by her friend – and gallery artist – Lori Bacigalupi.)

Tessa Somermeyer is a life-long lover of craft who, since childhood, has been visiting exhibitions and artist studios with her mother, Jan Painter. She is currently a graduate student at the University of Minnesota. (Tess’s scarf is by gallery artist Randy Darwall.)

Click here for a profile of gallery owner Ann Ruhr Pifer.

Handcrafted Holidays 2010

2010-11-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

Our annual Handmade Holiday bazaar is now open! We’ve stocked up on fresh finds and perennial favorites and have a wide selection of ornaments, jewelry, prints, and pottery as well as work in fiber, glass, metal and wood. We’ll be adding new goods throughout the season, with plenty of options under $60. Find the perfect handcrafted treasure for everyone on your list as well as treats for your holiday home and wardrobe. The Grand Hand offers gift-wrapping, shipping and corporate gift services.

Holiday Events at The Grand Hand:

Jewelry Trunk Show: Loeber + Look
Friday, December 3 - Sunday, December 5
Husband and wife artists Ken Loeber and Dona Look, whose studio is located in Algoma, WI, have collaborated to create their contemporary, clean-lined, 18 karat gold and sterling silver jewelry for almost 30 years. Ken - trained as a sculptor - brings his knowledge of metal techniques to the work while Dona, a birch bark basket maker, contributes her skill with fabrication. In 2008, the artists were featured in the PBS documentary series Craft in America.

Grand Meander
Saturday, December 4; 10 am - 6 pm
Enjoy a day on Grand Avenue during this leisurely, family-friendly holiday event featuring carolers and trolley rides while Santa and his reindeer spread holiday cheer along the avenue. At The Grand Hand, we’ll have holiday treats and live music from potter and one-man “house band,” Chuck Solberg. For further information, see www.grandave.com

Needle-felting Demonstration: Karen Engelbretson
Sunday, December 5; 2 - 4 pm
Gallery artist Karen Engelbretson will answer that burning question "How do they DO that?" about needle-felting. Karen will talk about the needle-felting process, and do a short demonstration. Karen is the creator of KJE Felties, our beautiful felted bird holiday ornaments, which will also be available for sale.

Guys’ Shopping Nights
Thursdays, December 9 and December 16; 5 - 9 PM
We’ll have salty snacks, brew and plenty of staff on hand to help you choose your gifts, wrap them on the spot and ship if needed – you’ll be done with your list and avoid the last minute rush!

NEW! Online Grand Hand shopping: check it out HERE

From the Fire

2010-10-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

From the Fire will be on view at The Grand Hand from October 16 - November 14
Opening Reception: Saturday, October 16, 5-8 PM
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Saint John's Pottery in Collegeville, MN, we'll present work in clay from Richard Bresnahan, artist-in-residence, and former apprentices Stephen Earp, Kevin Flicker, Sam Johnson and Anne Meyer. Saint John's University alumnus, designer and artist Willie Willette, has crafted a tea table from local elm as a companion to the clay that will be in service at a tea ceremony with Patricia Katagiri, Saturday, October 30 from 2-4 PM. (Pictured above, Richard tends the Johanna Kiln at Saint John's.)

See our events page for more information.

Autumn ...

2010-10-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

In St. Paul, we're enjoying a beautiful Minnesota fall with summer-like weather and gorgeous new work from our artists. The Grand Hand started September by featuring graphite drawings from Bly & Rowan Pope, twin brothers and fellow artists who create highly detailed, labor intensive work. "Media Mike" Hazard stopped in to photograph the pair, above.

On and On (September 11 - October 10) featured influence, iteration and innovation in clay and painting from artists Ta-coumba Aiken, Robert Briscoe, Butch Holden, Jim Grittner and Jason Trebs .

October brought the inaugural national celebration of American Craft Week (October 1-10.) Grand Hand customers had a chance to participate in a Ceramics Makeover, trading up from imported mass-produced pieces to artisan work.

October's Featured Artist is Kathleen Clair, an El Paso oil painter who formerly lived in St. Paul and recalls local scenes in her work.

For more information on Grand Hand events, see www.thegrandhand.com

SUMMER SALE through August 31

2010-08-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

Great prices on beautiful art. 20-70% off works by Lisa Elias, Tom Homan, Todd Reed, Sarah Graham, Patrick Meyer, Jemerick Art Pottery, Kerry Vesper, Vernon Leibrant, Jerry Kermode, Hippo Handcrafted, Steven Levine and more. Hurry in, items are one of a kind!

Francene Christianson Portrait Event this Saturday and Sunday

2010-08-10T08:37:00.000-07:00

Join us this weekend, August 14 and 15 from 2-4 pm for an artist talk from painter Francene Christianson.

Christianson has developed her own brand of portraiture immortalizing vignettes based on photos, primarily focused on the period from mid-20th century through the 1970s. Reflecting on her family collection of slides and black and white photographs, she began using these childhood memories as inspirations for her painting practice. "I started these paintings for me," she recounts, "and found that other people connected to them just as strongly."

'Landscape' now through September 5

2010-08-10T08:25:00.000-07:00

'Renewal Stone' by Jeremy Newman and Allison Ciancibelli

Don't miss the Landscape Show! Ten Minnesota painters look to topography for their subjects while glass artists from the West Coast incorporate landscape references into their pieces. This exhibition celebrates the American terrain and beyond with work in paint and glass. Click here for more on the show and upcoming exhibitions.

Jewelry Sale 6/29-7/11!

2010-06-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

At The Grand Hand Gallery we only have a couple sales a year. Hurry in for the best selection, quantities are limited and many items are one-of-a-kind.

Save 25 to 50% on jewelry by Cheryl Rydmark, Ford and Forlano, Terri Logan, Karin Jacobson, Baharal + Gnida, JL Walsh, Cynthia Jones, Sharon Schafner, Erika Sturm, MIO Studio, M.A.D.E, JacQueline Sanchez, Wiwat Kamolpornwijit, and Bee Design.

Artist of the Month Florence Hill

2010-06-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

New paintings in from our June artist of the month Florence Hill. Pictured 'Brittany 92'

New Arrival: Brenna Busse Sacred Cirlces series

2010-06-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

New 'Sacred Circles' dolls in from Brenna Busse. Pictured 'Sacred Circles: Seeking Wisdom'.

New Arrival: Jason Trebs!

2010-06-01T12:20:00.001-07:00

New beautiful functional pots by Jason Trebs.

For The Book Lover

2010-06-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

New book mugs in from Marion Angelica!

Father's Day Gift Ideas

2010-05-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

Show dad you care with a handmade gifts this Father's Day! Art for every dad in all price ranges. Pictured are gifts from $30 to $825. Stop in for help picking the perfect gift and complimentary gift wrapping.

Now on view ...

2010-05-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

So Much Soul at The Grand Hand - the latest work in clay from Dick Cooter's new kiln, David Ekdahl's

one-of-a-kind hand carved totems and exhilarating canvases from painter John Olympio.

Come in, enjoy the exhibition, and find your "soul mate" work of art through July 18th!

At the opening reception: potters Warren MacKenzie, Dick Cooter, and Peter Jadoonath

David Ekdahl with his Bellhop totem

John Olympio and Grand Hand associate Linda Lanasa

As winter turned to spring ...

2010-04-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

we celebrated Mardi Gras! with special guests Chuck & Margaret Solberg

Minnesota Women Potters and Two Minnesota Painters opened in March; pictured - Sandra Shaughnessy clay and Michael Schmidt painting

Steven Nesheim taught drawing one Sunday in April; pictured - Marion Angelica and Margaret Bohls clay and Ruth Oseid Johnson painting

Liz Plambeck brought her Universal Pants line of fun, funky clothing for a trunk show -

Looking forward to a Minnesota summer with Chuck Solberg clay, Mike Tonder and Peter Zelle glass and Bryan Young painting

Valentine's Day Gifts

2010-02-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

Stop in and let us help you pick the perfect gift for your sweetie.

Heart Pendants by local artists, top- Baby Juice Heart by Heinz Brummel, bottom- Anatomical Heart by Emily Johnson.

New Artist: Kelly Jean Ohl

2010-01-30T12:43:00.000-08:00

Intrigued by sensory awareness this ceramic artist uses texture and sound to invite the viewer to engage their senses. "This is my way of acknowledging that the work was meant to be touched. It's part of the experience". Kelly Jean's pieces remind people of the things they have found on the forest floor, touched in a tide pool or a single cell viewed under a microscope. Each piece is hand carved, burnished and sanded. Then they go through multiple firings and layers if hand painted oxides.

Last Chance January Sale!

2010-01-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

There are just a few days left of the January sale!

Stop in this weekend for ...

20% off

Sarah Wieben Paintings
Michal Tonder Glass
Tom Homann Ceramics
Jemerick Art Pottery

25% off

Jennifer Green Beeswax Candles

30% off

Jim Romberg Raku Ceramics

50% off

Judaica
Select Scarves
Maple Syrup
Mark Orr Scavenger Art Birds
Alison Palmer Whimsical Ceramics

75% off

Select Jewelry and other items

Jewelry Trunk Show: Laura Stamper & Mitra Vahhaji

2010-01-24T11:26:00.000-08:00

Join us Saturday, February 6th and Sunday February 7th for a trunk show just in time for Valentine's day!

Minnesota artists Laura and Mitra bring their unique jewelry collections to The Grand Hand. Laura's joyous work in mixed materials is new to the gallery - Mitra's irresistible designs in silver, pearls and stones are perennial favorites. Join us the first weekend in February and let the artists and gallery staff help you make your selections.

Go Vikes!

2010-01-22T10:06:00.000-08:00

New work by artist Tom Ashworth. Just in time for this weekend's game!

Coming Soon

2010-01-11T09:52:00.000-08:00

A Sale Like You've Never Seen Before

2010-01-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

Clearing out to bring in new art for the new year! Though January 31st, save 20% on Sarah Wieben paintings, Michael Tonder glass, Tom Homann pottery, and Jemerick pottery. Hurry in for the best selection!

GUYS NIGHT II

2009-12-16T07:42:00.000-08:00

We're at it again! Join us for Guys Night II this Thursday, December 17th from 5-8 pm. There will be complimentary beer from Flat Earth Brewery, snacks from La Cucaracha, complimentary gift wrapping and helpful staff to pick out the perfect gift. See you there!

New Arrival: Dick Huss Glass!

2009-11-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

Many new pieces in all shapes, sizes and prices by our favorite glass artist, Dick Huss.

Join us for our 5th Anniversary Party/Holiday Open House!

2009-11-05T09:19:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 21 from 4-8 pm for our 5th Anniversary Party/Holiday Open House!

This is our big thank you to artists, customers, friends and neighbors who have made the Grand Hand's first five years a success! Come enjoy a glass of wine, hors d'oeuvres and live jazz and blues by Chuck Solberg. A portion of sales during this event will be donated to CERF (Craft Emergency Relief Fund) - in support of working craft artists.

Open Monday & Extended Holiday Hours

2009-11-05T09:12:00.000-08:00

Extended hours for you to get all of your holiday shopping done!

Now for the holiday season shop 10 am 'til 8 pm Monday through Friday, and 10 am 'til 6 pm Saturday and Sunday.

More Minnesota Craft touring - North House Folk School

2009-10-24T06:29:00.001-07:00

Our next stop on our North Shore tour with Carol Sauvion was Grand Marais, where Greg Wright, Director of the North House Folk School, gave us a tour of this incredible craft shool that is open to all comers, and a bit of it's history. My 6 year old son Owen checked out the handmade snowshoes and braided rug in the main classroom overlooking the harbor. The School's boat, the Hjordis, is docked just outside the school's buildings in the harbor.

Visit to Dick & Debbie Cooter's studio 10/19/09

2009-10-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

I took Carol Sauvion, the creator of the award-winning PBS series "Craft in America" up to the Arrowhead Region of Minnesota to visit some of our favorite artists and craft-related places on the North Shore. First stop was lunch with Dick and Debbie Cooter - including lunch, and a chance to see Dick's brand new, two-chamber kiln. He expects the first firing to happen in November, and we can't wait to see how it works! Debbie had a rainbow-colored blanket up on her loom the day we stopped in. Carol and I are both still dreaming about the homemade squash soup and savory crackers that Debbie served... and the glorious colors of the north country Fall!

Don't Miss it! Todd Reed & Kiss of the Wolf Weekend Trunk Show!

2009-10-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Elegance and sophisticated, contemporary style blow into the Grand Hand Gallery in a big way when these two artists arrive with their entire collections. Todd's gorgeous designs incorporating raw diamonds and naturally-colored rose-cut diamonds set in 18K gold and sterling silver. The mother-daughter team of Lori and Serene Bacigalupi create one-of-a-kind wearable pieces in hand painted and shibori dyed silks and cottons that are so easy to wear and stylish that they will become the pieces you reach for every time you go out! This will be one of the last Kiss of the Wolf shows ever, so don't miss this opportunity!

Friday and Saturday 10-6
Sunday 12-5

This Friday (10.2) Reception, Reading and Book Signing

2009-10-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

Please join us to celebrate the release of a new book by one of our very favorite authors, Nicole Kelby. Nicole will be here in conjunction with her national tour promoting her new book A Travel Guide for Reckless Hearts, published by Minnesota Historical Society Press / Borealis Books. We will have wine, hors d'oeuvres, great conversation, a reading by Nicole, and - of course - books for sale!

A Travel Guide for Reckless Hearts is a collection of short stories, rooted in the Midwest and cultivated in the deep South. They have been featured on NPR's "Selected Shorts," and on the NPR cd "Travel Tales", and included in New Stories From the South: Best of 2006. More info on Nicole Kelby

coming soon: twoXtwo

2009-10-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

Over at The Grand Hand we're getting very excited for Two X Two!

Saturday, October 10th is the opening day of our Two X Two show. If you haven't heard, the policy for buying Warren MacKenzie's pots will be: At 10AM on Oct 10 you may put your name on the list to draw a number at 11AM. The number indicates the order in which you will be admitted to the gallery to select a pot. Sales begin at 11AM. One pot per person. Pots may be picked up or shipped at end of show, Nov. 9.

For more info on the event, and future events click here.

New Arrival: Sequoia Miller Pottery!

2009-10-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

New pottery from Grand Hand favorite Sequoia Miller. As usual, Sequoia's work sells quickly. Stop in soon!

Loeber + Look Jewelry Trunk Show! One weekend only, September 18-20th!

2009-09-17T13:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend, September 18-20th, we are pleased to welcome the entire collection of Loeber + Look jewelry!

Wisconsin artists Donna Look and Ken Loeber have been creating clean lined, contemporary jewelry in 18K gold and sterling silver for more than 28 years. Their work has been exhibited worldwide, won numerous awards and is in the permanent collection of the American Craft Museum.

Ann's Visit to Warren MacKenzie's Studio

2009-09-17T13:03:00.000-07:00

I made a quick visit to Warren and Nancy MacKenzie's home this week to pick up a few "advance" pots for our upcoming show to do some photos. The MacKenzie's grandson, River, welcomed me with a huge bearhug ("YOU ARE OWEN'S MOMMY!!!" he yelled as made a flying leap at me and wrapped his arms around my neck), and then informed us that he could show us where the pottery was, in case we forgot. He led us down the path to the studio, and we caught Warren just as he was throwing his last pot of the day. Look at how Warren is talking intently to River, while still keeping the pot going on the wheel...

The collection that is stashed away for us up in the attic shelves in Warren's studio are beautiful, and we are looking forward to their arrival at The Grand Hand in October!

In case you are wondering - yes, we will have the usual routine for purchasing Warren's pots of putting your name down on a list to draw a number to pick a pot for purchase. The number represents the order in which you can go into the gallery to select a pot to purchase. There will be as many numbers as there are pots, and a one pot per customer limit. We will ask buyers to leave their pots at the gallery for the duration of the show (ending November 9th). The process will begin when we open for business at 10AM on October 10th.

Now on view at The Grand Hand: Wieben & Wood

2009-09-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

Sarah Wieben, Building Bridges

WIEBEN & WOOD
Sarah Wieben – painting
James Borden, Bob Carls, Janel Jacobson, Jerry Kermode, Vernon Leibrant, Craig Lossing, Jay McDougall, Holly Tornheim and Kerry Vesper – contemporary wood
September 4 – October 6, 2009

For this exhibition, Minnesota landscape artist Sarah Wieben has created a series of new work inspired by the American Sublime painters of the 19th century, but reflecting the sense of political and cultural renewal taking place in our country today. Sarah’s A Destiny of Our Own Making is an exciting body of work – an artist’s view of the contemporary sense of a new American identity.

Sculptural, functional, turned, carved – we love wood art in all its forms. This show brings together some of the most outstanding wood artists from Minnesota and across the country.

Gallery Talk: Sunday, September 13, 2-4 PM
Noted Minnesota collectors Ruth & David Waterbury on acquiring wood art

Sarah Wieben on her new work:

In giving my current body of work the title “A Destiny of Our Own Making,” I am both quoting a great modern orator (President Obama heralding the passage of his Stimulus Package) and also making reference to Manifest Destiny, along with its visual component, The American Sublime. Which is not to say all American Sublime painters supported the doctrine of Manifest Destiny, because they did not, but they did very much address and respond to it, which is the potent point I’m getting at.

By today’s standards, the views of the American Sublime painters would strike one as benignly sentimental on one hand, to uncomfortably politically incorrect on the other, less benign hand. Their views belong to their time. What I admire about them, and what I am inspired by, is their level of involvement in the discourse of the day – that being, the formation of an American national identity. For the Sublime painters, who were very much influenced by and in communication with the writers, poets and philosophers of the day (Emerson, Whitman, Thoreau) the question of national identity was as new as the nation was young.

Today our nation has aged enough to be at a crossroads in our country’s history, and for us the question of our national identity is a renewed question. Who are we? Who are we not?

Having been born in the 1960s, I am a child of the Postmodern era. But as such, I have always felt estranged from Postmodernism, with its disillusionment and cynicism and its persistent dismantling of values – values that I happen to believe in. This used to worry me. What did it say about me as an artist to admit that I felt detached from the prevailing art movement of my time?

The victory of Barack Obama in November 2008 signaled to me that I had not been alone in my estrangement. Others too had languished and yearned as I did for political and cultural renewal. His victory was a harbinger that the country was in the process of a major paradigm shift. How else could one interpret the victory of a political candidate who built his campaign on the foundation of that most anti-Postmodern notion – Hope?

It has been said that a people cannot survive and prosper without a unified national mythology. I agree with this position with the added assertion that if a mythology exists by consensus, it ceases to be myth and becomes instead a reality.

If I am reading the signs correctly, and it is indeed time to reconsider the question of our national identity, then I feel compelled as an artist, and as a citizen, to participate in that discourse. The work on view for this show is the visual manifestation of how I see my fellow Americans – it is the beginning rather than the summation of my vision of who we are.

- Sarah Wieben
August 2009

Thanks! for attending Minnesota Botanical ...

2009-09-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

and thank you to the artists who shared their work (Karen Engelbretson, Tomato, pictured.) Wishing everyone continued enjoyment of Minnesota's bounty as we head into autumn -

SUMMER SALE now through August 23!

2009-08-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Stop in for great deals on fabulous art! Our summer sale includes artwork by Gatski Metal, Gail Chavenelle, Patrick Meyer, Jeanine Guncheon and more. You will also find jewelry on sale by Jacqueline Sanchez, Mio, Erika Sturm, Rina Young, Mary & Lou Ann and many more.

What goes on behind that curtain?

2009-08-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

When the curtains go up in the Grand Avenue windows, staff members are in action mounting a new exhibition -

We start with a clean slate -

Artists visit and bring new work (Karen Engelbretson with her botanical prints) . . .

we learn about their process, materials and new directions (Mark Granlund shows his painting)

a layout is determined

Rachel and Linda hang and place the work

The installation is almost complete - we check the details . . .

Linda opens the curtain to a new exhibition!

Minnesota Botanical now on view through August 30.

Beautiful flowers and plants complement the art courtesy Leitner's Garden Center

www.leitnersstpaul.com

Minnesota Botanical - opening reception Sat, Aug 8, 6-9PM

2009-08-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

The show of botanical art by a group of extraordinary Minnesota artists and teachers got an amazing boost by the participation of our local, independently owned, garden store Leitner's. The beauty of the art - with all of the three-dimensional feeling and coloration ranging from the subtlest gradations to rich and vibrant splashes - is accentuated by the live plants that have been selected specifically to accompany particular pieces of art. All of the "living art" is also for sale, but is going quickly!

This is not a "strict" show in the sense of showing only work of the formal tradition of botanical illustration - although there are outstanding examples of such work from several artists who are also teachers at the Minnesota School of Botanical Art. Also included in this show are fiber art pieces for the wall by St. Paul artist Joan Levine, depicting specific species of plants and flowers, and the richly detailed bead work jewelry by Jinny Washburn, inspired by the organic forms of leaves and blossoms.

As botanical art of the traditional style is painstakingly detailed, time consuming, and requires years and years of training and practice to become accomplished at, truly outstanding examples of this type of art can be rather expensive. For this show, we have selected some of the best artists working in this genre, but have also made sure that we have work available in a broad range of prices by selecting some work created on a traditional printing press - all original, numbered, signed, limited edition prints, but less expensive because the process employed makes it possible to produce multiple pieces.

Also, for this show, we have broken with our tradition of not selling reproductions - both the original works of art, and prints of some of those pieces will be available for sale. To say that we at The Grand Hand have "issues" with places that sell reproduction artwork for outrageous prices, under fancy names that make it sound like something more than just ink-jet printer copies of original works of art, would be an understatement... it really ticks us off... However, reproductions do have an important place in making great art available in some form to more people, and in providing artists with important supplemental income - as long as they are sold in an honest way. So, at this show you will find high-quality reproductions - prints and gorgeous cards - that give our customers an affordable entry point to enjoy this exquisitely beautiful art form.

Opening reception Saturday, August 8, 6 - 9PM! "Garden Party" - we will even have Pimm's No 1 Cup and cucumber sandwiches! Come relax in the garden with us, meet the artists, and enjoy great artful conversation!

- Ann

Paws on Grand this Sunday (8.2.09)!

2009-07-31T08:21:00.000-07:00

Join us this Sunday for Paws on Grand! Here at the Grand Hand we have a great display of animal artwork as well as treats for canine friends! For more information visit The Animal Humane Society or Grand Ave Business Association.

from the current show: Ginny Bueide - painting, Alan Honn - glass

2009-07-20T22:23:00.000-07:00

Paul Metsa serenades Ginny

Al's glass in the Grand Avenue window

Stand Out with One of a Kind Clothing and Jewelry

2009-07-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

Look original with one of a kind knit tops by Latifa and funky yet classy jewelry by Mitra Vahhaji.

New Arrival: Leslie Pilgrim Paintings

2009-07-15T14:37:00.001-07:00

New paintings in by Leslie Pilgrim.

Fresh Summer Picks

2009-07-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

Cover bare shoulders on chilly nights with colorful and light as feather silk scarves, $45-$150, by Jo Hill.

Long dangly earrings by Emily Johnson, $98, to complement summer dresses and necklines.

Flaming rocks by Black Mountain Studios, $38, will light up the patio on summer nights.

Diane Markin garden sparklers, $44, will brighten up your garden or potted plants.

Hand Turned Wood Tops by Bob Carls

2009-07-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

Need a thoughtful gift that works for just about anyone? Bob Carls' tops are the perfect thing. A whole new batch just arrived at the gallery. Carls has said to relax he'll turn off the lights, spin a top and listen to it slowly wind down.

New Arrival: Barbara Sebastian Jars

2009-07-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Precious porcelain fetish jars by artist Barbara Sebastian. Sebastian describes the interior of the jars to honor the sacred space within each of us to dream, create and dance with the elements in each our own way. Initially Sebastian created the jars at the end of a lengthy drought to honor the elements associated with rain: clouds, water, lightning and growth.

New Arrival: Fred Kaemmer

2009-07-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

New pieces in by glass artist Fred Kaemmer. Check out our other glass artists here.

New Arrival: Mary Opatz-Herges

2009-07-15T06:40:00.000-07:00

Sweet oil paintings by Mary Opatz-Herges are sure to warm up any space.

Moo Arrival: Kari Maxwell Paintings

2009-07-14T21:11:00.000-07:00

New cow paintings in by Kari Maxwell.

Cool video on our Visual Jazz show from MNDaily.com

2009-07-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

The University of MN on-line publication MNDaily.com did this fun, short little feature on our Visual Jazz show. Staff member Joanna Scavone stars in this one!

Photos from MN Summer Dreams II Opening, July 11, 2009

2009-07-13T06:33:00.001-07:00

Opening reception for Minnesota Summer Dreams II, on Saturday, July 11, was great fun - great art, good friends, and fantastic music by blues/folk musician Paul Metsa.

Minnesota Summer Dreams

2009-07-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

As we get ready for our "Minnesota Summer Dreams II" show opening this Saturday, we were remembering how great the last Summer Dreams show was - work by gallery artists Mike Tonder (glass), Sarah Dudgeon (pottery) and Patricia Canelake (paintings) were gorgeous, and instantly transported us "up north to the lake". In case you missed that show, here is a peek at what it looked like. We always have a good selection of all of these artists work - be sure to ask us when you come in.

Because of our limited display space, we have many paintings and three dimensional works like Mike's glass sculptures stored in our back room. We are always more than happy to pull items out to show you - and you don't even need to know exactly what you are looking for. Say "I am thinking something contemporary, abstract, big, lots of color..." and we'll go running for things to fit the bill. Or "I'm thinking landscape... something calming... to fit in a small space..." No problem, we've got choices for that too. Want Ann to come to your home to see your space and come up with some suggestions? No problem, we do that too!

What pots are for

2009-07-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

We love pots that are made to be used, and we love actually USING them even more. This thought was in my mind at the cabin this week, as we used and enjoyed Dick Cooter's plates and mugs for meals, and his vases for northwoods wildflowers; Jo Severson's little pitcher for salad dressing; and Steven Rolf's bowls for glorious organic salads from the Grand Marais Coop. Life is just better with beautiful handmade things all around and woven into everyday life...

Wanna see more? Come on into the gallery and get your own, or you can check out renting our little R&R cabin on Lake Superior for yourself (hint: the big stone fireplace makes it totally AWESOME for ski weekends at Lutsen Mountain). Contact Cascade Vacation Rentals: www.cascadevacationrentals.com. Select "R&R Cabin".

Happy Summer All!

Gallery Artist Jean Matzke

2009-06-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

Fiber artist Jean Matzke passed away on Friday morning. She was struck and killed by a garbage truck while walking her dog near her home in Lowertown St. Paul. All of us in the "Grand Hand family" will miss her so much, and we are all struggling to comprehend what has happened.

Jean's friends and family let us know this morning that memorial services will be held this Tuesday at St. John's Abbey, St. John's University, Collegeville, MN. Visitation 1PM, Mass 2PM, reception to follow. Please note that this info may be subject to change - we will post any changes or corrections here on the blog.

Sunday (6.28) Pioneer Press features Warren MacKenzie

2009-06-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out tomorrow's St. Paul Pioneer Press for a front page article on favorite potter Warren MacKenzie.

MinnPost Article

2009-06-17T14:43:00.000-07:00

Check out this wonderufl write up on our new Visual Jazz show!

Visual Jazz Sneak Preview

2009-06-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

The curtains are up and we've started to set up Visual Jazz. Here's a sneak preview of what is to come. Don't forget to join us for the opening reception, this Wednesday, June 17 from 6-9 pm.

Coming Soon: Visual Jazz

2009-06-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

A juried exhibition of visual art inspired by music. In cooperation with the Twin Cities Jazz Festival (June 18-20, 2009) and KBEM Jazz88FM. Guest curator Seitu Jones.

Join us Wednesday, June 17th from 6 - 9pm for the Visual Jazz opening reception. There will be live music by Minnesota jazz legend Irv Williams on sax, and Peter Schimke on piano!

Celebrating 'Thirty-six Views of the St. Paul Cathedral' a New Book by Peter Kramer

2009-06-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

The Grand Hand is pleased to welcome Minneapolis architect Peter Kramer for a celebration of his new book 'Thirty-six Views of the Cathedral', Saturday June 20th from 2 - 6 pm. Books will be available for sale and signing by the author. There will be refreshments and live music by Chuck Solberg.

The Neo-Fuctionalist Press is a side-project of longtime Twin Cities architect Peter Kramer. Through the Press, Peter complies and distributes his illustration work and especially likes the coloring book format "because it's good for you!". "Color yourself to mental heath," is his motto. The book 'Thirty-six Views of the Cathedral' is rooted in the artist's childhood visits to the landmark.

Fun for Summer

2009-06-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

In celebration of summer Michael Schmidt's painting 'Soft Serve' is back out on the gallery floor.

New Arrival: Tom Ashworth

2009-06-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

New Arrival: S.C. Rolf pottery

2009-06-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

New Arrival: Andy Farkas Prints

2009-06-08T08:28:00.001-07:00

Grand Hand favorite Andy Farkas has sent some beautiful new wood engraving prints. Pictured is a detail of "Float".

New stuff coming from recent trade show!

2009-06-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

Everyone asks me, "So what great new stuff did you find at the trade show?" Well, I am still sitting here on the show floor in Las Vegas at the American Craft Retailers Expo (ACRE), and here is one of the new things that I picked.... coming later this summer... Suzanne Williams from Fargo, N.D. makes these funky-elegant-gorgeous leather handbags that I fell in love with:

Visit to Richard Bresnahan's Studio 5/09

2009-06-01T17:23:00.000-07:00

Last week, gallery staff member Linda LaNasa and I drove to St. John's University, north of St. Cloud, MN, to visit gallery artist Richard Bresnahan at his studio. Our purpose was two-fold: to meet to discuss planning for a new show of Richard's work and that of several of his apprentices, and to have Richard give Linda the full tour of the studio, explaining all aspects of studio operations, and the philosophies behind all that they do. Ecological conservation is very important to Richard, and it underlies all aspects of studio operations: equipment is reclaimed/recycled, water from the University power plant is re-used over and over in the studio for washing ash and clay; and the ash for the glazes that they formulate there all comes from burning that was already happening for other reasons - straw from farmer's fields, fallen trees etc.

No visit to Richard's studio is complete without tea and treats at the beautiful Japanese-style tea table that is the centerpiece of the studio. We outlined plans for the new show around the table, then went down to the kiln where Richard told us about all aspects of the firing process, as well as the extensive cleaning and maintenance work that goes on in between firings. The Johanna kiln is the largest wood-fired kiln in North America - at 84 ft. long, it consists of four separate firing chambers. The next firing of the kiln is planned for the Fall of 2011, just prior to the opening of the new show at The Grand Hand in early October.

I will have more info on our visit, and more photos of the studio and the Johanna kiln in a separate post. I see that while I have been away, colleague Rachel Nusbaum had already gotten photos of the new work that we brought back from Richard's up in a blog post below! How's that for teamwork?!

That's all for now, from Ann in Las Vegas - still one more day of trade shows to go. Have found some wonderful new artists, and new work for existing gallery artists for the Fall.

New Arrival: Richard Bresnahan Pottery

2009-06-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

Just last week Ann and Linda had the pleasure of visiting Richard Bresnahan's kiln at St. John's University. Now on display are the new pieces they brought back.

New Arrival: Emily Johnson Jewelry

2009-05-26T10:11:00.001-07:00

Many new pieces in from Grand Hand favorite Emily Johnson!

There's still time to visit Pots & Prints

2009-05-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

Pots & Prints will be up through June 14th. The exhibit features potters Jason Bohnert, Heather Mae Erickson, and Peter Jadoonath. The walls are lined with monotypes by printmaker Jon Neuse. For more information on the show and other upcoming exhibits click here.

New Arrival: Cate & Levi hand puppets

2009-05-26T09:41:00.001-07:00

You've seen their adorable stuffed animals, now come check out the even cuter hand puppets from Cate & Levi. All animals are one of a kind, made from recycled wool. Stuffed animals run $90, hand puppets $40.

New Arrival: Carolyn Morris Bach

2009-05-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

If you haven't stopped by the gallery lately, come in and check out a few new fine pieces from Grand Hand favorite Carolyn Morris Bach.

New Arrival: Mary Bergherr paintings

2009-05-26T09:31:00.000-07:00

New Arrival: Tim Harding Wall Pieces

2009-05-16T21:40:00.001-07:00

New 40 x 33" wall pieces in the gallery from Tim Harding, a much anticipated arrival. Click here to visit Harding and our other fiber artists.

New Arrival: David Ekdahl pieces!

2009-05-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

A plethora of new figures just arrived from David Ekdahl.

They're going fast, come check them out!

Michelle Allee at Cafe Latte through June 30th

2009-04-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

Gulf Coast painter Michelle Allee is happily back at work after her painting practice took a detour in the wake of 2005's Hurricane Katrina. The Grand Hand Gallery first became aware of Michelle's work by participating in the Minnesota Initiative Art Share, a project that found new markets for work by displaced artists in the aftermath of the storm. Now that the artists is reestablished in her workspace, Michelle's canvases - once layered with attitudes of sorrow and confusion - evoke strength and good humor. Her inventive textures, rich palette, and structures motifs have made her paintings popular with Grand Hand customers.

Michelle's most recent work is on display at the gallery's Grand Avenue neighbor, St. Paul favorite Cafe Latte - on the corner of Grand & Victoria - through June 30th. Plan to enjoy fine food, and intriguing art this season in St. Paul.

ACC SHOW

2009-04-18T07:26:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to check out the American Craft Council show this weekend at the River Centre. Catch the trolley from the River Centre up to Grand Ave from 6-9 pm today, and be sure to stop by The Grand Hand's spring open house tonight from 6-9 pm.

The trolley is sponsored by The Grand Hand Gallery, La Cucaracha and Cafe Latte.

If you're missing some of your favorite ACC artists this year, come find them, and lots more, at The Grand Hand.

Ford & Forlano jewelry
Todd Reed jewelry
Jacqueline Sanchez jewelry
Loeber & Look jewelry
Heinz Brummel jewelry
Vernon Liebrant wood
Jerry Kermode wood
Rancdall Darwall fiber
Jeremy Newman glass
Studio Paran glass
Scott Amrhein glass
Sarah Dudgeon clay

The 3/50 Project

2009-04-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

What a great idea! The 3/50 project encourages people to support their favorite local, independent businesses by 3 of their favorite stores, and spending $50 at each. Keep our local businesses alive, and our local economy vibrant through these challenging times! Check it out at www.the350project.org.

New show is going up, and new work arriving for spring!

2009-04-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

We just received some fabulous new Todd Reed jewelry this week - rings with brilliant and raw diamonds in Todd's signature style, and earrings with rose-cut diamonds with a new, looser and more organic shape. Also arrived this week, jewelry from new gallery artist Cynthia Jones - hammered silver in bright and oxidized finishes. Shown: (left) Siren necklace ($230), (right) whirl necklace ($90) and petal stud earrings ($52).

Save the Date - Spring Open House, April 18th 6-9 pm

2009-03-31T10:38:00.000-07:00

Join the party April 18th for our spring open house. We will be celebrating with artists from the 23rd American Craft Council (ACC) show in St. Paul. The show will welcome 420 new and established artists in their latest handcrafted jewelry, clothing, furniture, home décor and more! To find out more about the ACC click here.

You can always find The Grand Hand's event and exhibition calendar here.

New Arrival: Sarah Graham Jewelry

2009-03-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

Just in at the Grand Hand, new Sarah Graham jewelry!

Mari Hill Harpur photography & Wayne Potratz metal April 3 - May 4

2009-03-31T09:08:00.000-07:00

Join us this Saturday April 4th from 5-8 for the opening reception of the Mari Hill Harpur photography and Wayne Potratz metal show!

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

2009-03-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

click image for full scale

New Artist: Don Biehn

2009-03-16T11:58:00.001-07:00

The Grand Hand welcomes St. Paul painter Don Biehn. Beihn's paintings feature St. Paul scenes. Paintings range $700 - $1400.

Staff Favorite

2009-03-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

Attention grabbing, graphic, and colorful jewelry unmistakably Heinz Brummel. Earings pictured range $190 - $350.

New Artist: Karl Kulp

2009-03-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Grand Hand welcomes the wood work of Karl Kulp. The small wood vessels range $60 - $70.

Gallery Grooves: Saturday March 7!

2009-03-05T15:24:00.000-08:00

HOT ART + COOL JAZZ = GALLERY GROOVES

Join us Saturday, March 7th for live jazz by Johnny Smith, photography by Chris Felver, hors d'oeuvres, wine tasting, and hot art!

Visit The Well Crafted Home: Now - March 29!

2009-03-05T15:20:00.000-08:00

New Arrival: Ernest Miller Ceramics

2009-03-05T15:05:00.000-08:00

New Ernest Miller ceramics at The Grand Hand. There is something for everyone, prices range $60 - $600. Click here to see Ernest Miller's online gallery and additional clay artists represented by The Grand Hand.

New Arrival: Heinz Brummel jewelry

2009-02-16T12:26:00.000-08:00

Many new pieces in by jewelry artist Heinz Brummel.

New Arrival: Michelle Alle paintings

2009-02-16T12:16:00.000-08:00

New Michelle Alle Paintings in the gallery! Bird paintings range $145- $340.

New Artist: Emily Dyer

2009-02-16T12:00:00.000-08:00

Perfect for Spring!

The Grand Hand welcomes the work of ceramic artist Emily Dyer. Dyer notes her inspiration "I am currently exploring motifs and patterns from antique and folk art quilts. When a design inspires me, I re-interpret parts of it to make it my own and give it a more contemporary spin, creating my own unique illustrations." Pieces range $24-$125.

The Well Crafted Home February 20th-March 29th

2009-02-11T17:56:00.000-08:00

The Well Crafted Home show will focus on the finest in handcrafted furniture and home accessories from regional artisans. In our exhibition space, we'll combine wood, metal, textiles, tableware and lighting to create cozy and inspirational home settings. Spring is on the horizon — let The Grand Hand help you feather your nest! The show will feature works by Dan Dunbar, Lisa Elias, Frank Grant, Paul Klein, Kelly Marshall, and others.

Opening Reception

Saturday, February 21st, 5-8pm.

Join gallery owner Ann Ruhr Pifer and the artists for wine, hors d'oeuvres and fabulous works of art.

New Print Corner

2009-02-11T08:55:00.000-08:00

Stop in to see the new print corner! We have grouped all of the prints together so it is much easier to shop. We have recently received new prints from Charles Beck, and Jim Meyer.

Click here to find The Grand Hand's print artists.

Valentine's Day gift ideas

2009-02-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

Stop into The Grand Hand and let us help you pick the perfect handmade gift for your Valentine. With so many unique, wonderful things, it might be hard to choose!

New Arrival: Jim Meyer prints

2009-02-08T09:59:00.000-08:00

Three new Jim Meyer woodblock prints. The prints range $150-$160. Stop in to see the new prints!