Stars overhead. Portals for beauty.

There is a place in Ravenna, Italy where mosaic stars twinkle overhead the tomb of Empress Galla Placidia. Central to her field of stars is a cross designed to impress us with the Christian notion of immortality and ever-lasting life.

This weekend at the studio:

Doran Studio Dallas, TX

I died for beauty, but was scarce

Adjusted in the tomb,

When one who died for truth was lain

In an adjoining room.

He questioned softly why I failed?

"For Beauty," I replied.

"And I - for Truth, - the two are one;

We brethren are," he said.

And so, as kinsmen met a night,

We talked between the rooms,

Until the moss had reached our lips,

And covered up our names.

               Emily Dickenson 

Doran Studio Dallas, TX

We began installing the stars of Ravenna Side Tour project.  Back in the month of February we hosted two art events where folks joined us in an art experience and made several stars for the front of the studio.  Now we have a bit of cooler weather in which to install them.  May they be portals for beauty.

Doran Studio Dallas, TX

End. Begin.

It's the end of a year.  2014.  

We've had the most generous clients ever.  Thank you. 

This custom glass on glass mosaic panel was designed with Mid-Century Modern in mind.  It's a privacy panel for a bath and is supported by a frame created by the sculptor, Daniel Sellers. You can meet Dan and take welding classes with him through the Creative Arts Center, Dallas, Texas.  He's one of those artists without a website or even a portfolio.  His integrity and the quality of his work is enough cred.

I have to say this, I know the best people.  It's one of my gifts.  I cherish my relationships and share them with you as a way of passing on the wealth.  

2015.  Begin.

The new year brings many exciting opportunities for the studio.  One is a mosaic show co-curated by Jamie Pink Weisbrod and Katrina Doran.  We invite you to enter your mosaic work based on stories from the Old Testament and the story of Passover.  All mosaic styles will be considered.

The show:  A MOSAIC PASSOVER STORY

Location: The Museum of Biblical Art, Dallas, Texas

Application deadline: February 16, 2015

Show dates: March 29, 2015 - June 7, 2015

Register: Juried Art Services

Holiday Time

It's holiday time.  I've included a photo of one of our studio cats, Matilda, enhancing the painting by Denny Doran.  She was the cutest little bug of a cat.  Tilly, as we called her, always loved a party and made sure everyone fell in love with her.  We miss her presence and think of her fondly.  She left us with the gift of joy and we wish to share that with you this holiday season. Spread your joy a little bit at a time.  It will leave a lasting impression.