Author Archives: mariasaracino

About mariasaracino

Figurative Artist

Mood Swings

It’s always fascinated me how the chain of information spreads from person to person. The interpretation and the range of human emotions and reactions are so different. One of Norman Rockwell’s illustrations sticks out in my mind. It’s called “Gossip”. … Continue reading

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A Special Gift

I usually write about gifts people commission me to make for them, but today I want to share a gift I received. It’s been more than 4 years since “The Thunderbird” installation was completed and hung on the wall at … Continue reading

Posted in Affordable Designs, Art, Art Awards, art classes, art conference, Art Dolls, art exhibits, art instructors, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Artists, Figurative Art, Marguerite D'Youville, Maria Saracino, Orange Art Gallery, ottawa, Ottawa 150, ottawa art scene, Perth, ON, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, Sculpting Workshops, sculpture, Studio 87, Uncategorized, Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health, Workshops, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

It’s the Little Things

Sometimes all it takes is an unexpected act of romance to show someone how much you care. A simple surprise that shows you were listening is not only an expression of love but a validation of how your partner feels … Continue reading

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Meet Julenisse, The Norwegian Santa

Typically, people believe that Santa lives in one of the Northern Scandinavian countries, as a matter of fact, you’ve probably heard he lives in Lapland. But despite his home being so close, Santa Claus is not a common Christmas icon … Continue reading

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A Classic – Picture Day at the Mall

There aren’t too many parents who haven’t felt exasperated trying to capture a festive family photo. This includes that first Christmas photo with Santa at the Mall which has become a classic. For babies and toddlers it’s a moment of … Continue reading

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My Little Elf . . .

Many years ago, and for a period of about 10 years, I created a gift line of wire-bodied resin elves. They were very popular during the Christmas season and my customers looked forward to adding new characters to their collection … Continue reading

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The Doll Maker Vignette

It’s Finally Here! The November issue of DOLL CASTLE Magazine is finally out and on the front cover you’ll find a vignette called “The Doll Maker”. I worked on this commission over several months. It’s more than a portrait commission, … Continue reading

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The Art Connection Summit

Under normal circumstances, September would be the start of a new series of workshops offered in my studio. However, Covid19 has disrupted everything. But from hardship comes innovative new ideas and a different way to gather and learn from each … Continue reading

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The Toller Cranston Commission

Pat Gorgas came to visit early in the Covid days. We sat on my porch, social distancing as she described the project she wanted me to do.  A commission of the late Toller Cranston – Canadian national figure skating champion … Continue reading

Posted in Art, Art Awards, Art Dolls, art exhibits, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Artists, Christmas Elf, Elf, Elves, Figurative Art, Maria Saracino, Orange Art Gallery, ottawa, ottawa art scene, Perth, ON, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, sculpey, Sculpting Workshops, sculpture, Uncategorized, Vingettes, Workshops, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Studio Space Downsize

This quote by Leonard Da Vinci is going to be put to the test as I settle into my new studio space – a compact 8′ x 6.5′ room. This is the space where I sculpt and create my figurative … Continue reading

Posted in Art, Art Awards, Art Dolls, art exhibits, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Artists, Christmas, Christmas Elf, Elf, Elves, Figurative Art, Halloween, Justin Trudeau, Liberal Party, Marguerite D'Youville, Maria Saracino, Mother Christmas, Mother's Day Gifts, Mrs. Claus, Orange Art Gallery, ottawa, Ottawa 150, ottawa art scene, Perth, ON, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, Santa's Elf, sculpey, Sculpting Workshops, sculpture, solar system, space, Studio 87, Uncategorized, Vingettes, Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health, Witches, Workshops, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments