Theatre of Dreams

There is a magical wonderland hidden in the tiny town of Port Costa in Northern California. Artist extraordinaire Wendy Addison has created an enchanting shop space that she calls "Theatre of Dreams" in an 1880's era storefront that also houses the workshop and studio where she creates "Objects for an Imaginary Life". Her beautiful handmade papercraft and mixed media art pieces are on display here along with an assortment of vintage and antique curiosities she has collected and shares for sale, including some beads as well as many other artmaking materials.

The entire visit feels like a dream within a dream - driving along a winding road that ends in a waterside town that seems lost in time, and then the breathtaking shop filled with treasures - and if you are lucky the charming artist herself may wrap up your purchases. Please check the website, as the shop is only open certain days - usually weekends, but many objects are also available on-line, plus she offers info on classes and workshops. Located about an hour northeast of San Francisco and 45 min south of Napa, Port Costa is a perfect place to stop in between. Go!

Theatre of Dreams

11 Canyon Lke Dr. P.O. Box 20

Port Costa, CA 94569

510-672-1900

wendyaddisonstudio.com

The Rita Okrent Collection

Rita Okrent was one of the great ladies of the bead world. A talented designer who traveled the world and collected beautiful components, many ancient and antique, that she used in her own jewelery designs and also shared with others. Her legacy continues through her family, as daughter Jocelyne now heads The Rita Okrent Collection, home to beautiful beads, unique components and jewelry for sale - and all are exquisite. They attend prestigious bead shows, like the San Diego Bead Society's annual Bead Bazaar this past weekend, and can be found online at RitaOkrent.com, and on Etsy at RitaOkrentCollection.

Pearl Onion and Friend

These little purple onions came to be during a foodish faze, and were made not long after a beaded piece of sushi (on view in the gallery). So as I was 'stuffing' them with rice like seed beads, it occurred to me to top the one on the left with a large pearl bead (hence the pun). Then the friend on the right has a bit of the

sushi vibe, topped with roe-like beads.