It’s been busy times, working on our new Spring/ Summer collection for 2009. I really had to clean out my studio! I didn’t want to dump my materials anywhere. I asked around and discovered Arts Junktion. A fabulous resource for materials from several industries for the Toronto School Board. There are contributions from the film industry, fashion, art gallery’s and many more.As I pulled up to the door I was greeted by Eileen Orr, her tile reads ‘ Keeper of the Treasure Cave’, as she guided me on a tour of the vast facility that houses several objects d’art I was thoroughly impressed with her organization of materials. From posters, magazines, huge 15ft plaster pillars and theater costumes from Shaw & Stratford, teachers have access to these objects for their students. Eileen shared several stories of student art exhibits that sounded wonderful. FYI there is also a Junktion for the Peel Board.I was so happy to know that my materials will make there way to another form of art and expression. What about your business? Do you have anything to donate rather than throwing out useful items. Arts Junktion is by appointment, as they also create schedules for teachers to drop in and treasure hunt, they can also make arrangements for pick up if there is a large shipment involved. Keep them in mind next time your cleaning house!

Who ever said that posing for the camera was easy never stood in front of that long lens and flash bulb. Concentrating on how your neck looks, what to do with your hands, suck in your belly, relax those lips, stare through the lens, give some awe inspiring look and still look natural is a very difficult thing to do. I have always appreciated the work actor’s, actresses & models do. It really takes a lot of work.

As I have mentioned before, I have years of experience behind the camera, even our novice photo shoot took several hours of setup between camera, hair and makeup. Thank god I’m currently working with a fabulous Costume Designer. Her name is Kaisa Walicka Maimone, she directed me to a beautiful gown that I borrowed for the weekend. It wasn’t something I would have ever chosen but I loved it and it conveyed the timeless image I was looking for.

There are two other people to thank. As you know the makeup artist is essential to any place where there is a camera. Super shout out to my ubber talented sister Janine Child who worked for MAC cosmetics for many years and has her own makeup art company in the Niagara region of Ontario. Last, but never least, the image maker - the photographer Raymond Lorenz. (I’m actually married to him). Thanks honey for doing a great job - although I know it’s hard to really direct me at times, hey maybe that’s why we haven’t golfed together for a while.