From the Editor’s Desk: Christen Olivarez on Somerset Studio

Artwork by Paula Bogdan

We are joined today by our wonderful editor-in-chief and director of publishing, Christen Olivarez. She’s here to give you a sneak peek at this month’s issue of Somerset Studio, our flagship publication that is well into its 15th year of production. Somerset Studio features mixed-media artwork from extraordinary, talented artists from around the world. A go-to source for paper crafting instructions for new crafters and professional artists alike, this publication always includes a stellar repertoire of projects, business tips, and creative inspiration.

We’re celebrating this milestone with a peek into the current November/December issue. Take a look at Christen’s favorite features, and help yourself to a good dose of creative therapy below.

It goes without saying that I enjoy putting together each issue of Somerset Studio. Sure, it’s a lot of work to organize art selections, contact all of the contributing artists, have photography handoffs, and proofread, proofread, proofread, but gosh, it’s fun. The November/December 2012 issue, though, was special. It’s very hard to put it in words, so I’ll resort to my go-to method of explaining things: a list.

Artwork by Stephanie Hilvitz
  • Seth Apter’s 5 x 5 Project: I truly feel like this article is like no other we’ve ever published. Perhaps it’s because it was based on a book, “The Pulse of Mixed-Media,” that is like no other. When Seth first contacted me with the idea for the article, I was quick to say “Yes!” to it. I knew Somerset Studio readers would really enjoy having insight into the creative processes of some of their favorite artists.

Artwork by DJ Pettit
  • Artist Portfolio on DJ Pettit: I’ve been a fan of DJ’s work since I began working at Stampington & Company more than five years ago. There is something captivating about her use of color and photography in her work. When I realized we hadn’t profiled her in the magazine yet, I asked Ricë Freeman-Zachery to get in touch with her right away. You’ll be fascinated by her story.

Artwork by Sue Pelletier
  • Playing With Plaster: Have you had the pleasure of chatting with Sue Pelletier? She is as funny as she is kind and talented. The way she incorporates plaster into her work is so imaginative. Her work has such a whimsical feel to it that I can’t help but smile when I see it.
Artwork by Michelle Ward
  • Holiday Projects: I’m just crazy about the holidays. In fact, as I type this, I’m also wondering how soon is too soon to put up my Christmas decorations? In this issue, we share a new take on the traditional advent calendar that will have you saving all of your mini mint tins. When I placed the piece out for art selection, just about everyone in the company walked past it while exclaiming how clever it was. There are also some awesome ideas for ornaments and other décor items inside.

I could go on and on about why I love this particular issue of Somerset Studio, but I think you get the picture. I think it’s one of our most artistically diverse issues, and I’m sure you’ll agree.

Thanks for the recap, Christen! If you’re curious to see more and can’t wait to get your hands on this issue of Somerset Studio, explore more articles and order your copy here.   


Posted: Thursday, November 8th, 2012 @ 3:05 pm
Categories: Mixed-Media Art.
Tags: .
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7 Responses to “From the Editor’s Desk: Christen Olivarez on Somerset Studio

  1. Lorraine says:

    just discovered this blog..some lovely work by my fav artists. Particularly like the bird piece above

  2. Jan says:

    Hello. I have already purchased this issue of Somerset Studio. I haven’t had time to read it cover to cover as I usually do, but I loved the projects I saw when skimming through the magazine at the newstand. DJ Pettit is one of my favorite Somerset artists, so her article had me hooked immediately. Next, the Trees & Art article caught my attention. (I’m a Becky Shander fan, as well.) I started working with chicken wire lately and in my google research I found many wire projects that looked interesting. So… I loved those wire trees.

    Now, glancing through the magazine, I see so many other artists and projects I want to read about, and I want to sit right down and devour the magazine. Alas, I don’t have time to do so at the moment, but it will be waiting for me on my bedside table!

    Thanks for a great issue!

  3. I love Somerset Studio!! I am always inspired with every issue!!! I have been a fan of Seth Apter’s for years, and really enjoyed that article. I always enjoy his “The Pulse” blog posts!
    Thanks for the interview Christen!!!

  4. Lisa M says:

    Just read my issue today while sitting on the ol’ exercise bike – it makes the time fly by! Really enjoy Sue and her plastered work makes me want to get my hands messy! Great issue as always; I have every single one and if I could choose only one, Somerset Studio would be my publication of choice!

  5. patricia says:

    DJ Petit’s work was amazing in this issue! I can’t get enough of Somerset Studio! Even going back thru issues from a few years ago, I never quit finding “new” things I may not have had an interest in before…….constantly providing inspiration for me!

  6. Ella says:

    I love DJ Pettit’s art…her voice comes shining through in this piece! It is a wonderful issue with an unique view~ I love Somerset Studio, it is always filled with insight and inspiration, like a breath of fresh air! I look forward to seeing more inspiration about the 5×5 challenge, on Seth Apter’s blog. Thank you Christen, Stampington for pushing the boundaries of art!

  7. We’re a bunch of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your website offered us with helpful information to work on. You have performed a formidable task and our whole community shall be thankful to you.

Jordan Mixed-Media Art

Artwork by Paula Bogdan

We are joined today by our wonderful editor-in-chief and director of publishing, Christen Olivarez. She’s here to give you a sneak peek at this month’s issue of Somerset Studio, our flagship publication that is well into its 15th year of production. Somerset Studio features mixed-media artwork from extraordinary, talented artists from around the world. A go-to source for paper crafting instructions for new crafters and professional artists alike, this publication always includes a stellar repertoire of projects, business tips, and creative inspiration.

We’re celebrating this milestone with a peek into the current November/December issue. Take a look at Christen’s favorite features, and help yourself to a good dose of creative therapy below.

It goes without saying that I enjoy putting together each issue of Somerset Studio. Sure, it’s a lot of work to organize art selections, contact all of the contributing artists, have photography handoffs, and proofread, proofread, proofread, but gosh, it’s fun. The November/December 2012 issue, though, was special. It’s very hard to put it in words, so I’ll resort to my go-to method of explaining things: a list.

Artwork by Stephanie Hilvitz
  • Seth Apter’s 5 x 5 Project: I truly feel like this article is like no other we’ve ever published. Perhaps it’s because it was based on a book, “The Pulse of Mixed-Media,” that is like no other. When Seth first contacted me with the idea for the article, I was quick to say “Yes!” to it. I knew Somerset Studio readers would really enjoy having insight into the creative processes of some of their favorite artists.

Artwork by DJ Pettit
  • Artist Portfolio on DJ Pettit: I’ve been a fan of DJ’s work since I began working at Stampington & Company more than five years ago. There is something captivating about her use of color and photography in her work. When I realized we hadn’t profiled her in the magazine yet, I asked Ricë Freeman-Zachery to get in touch with her right away. You’ll be fascinated by her story.

Artwork by Sue Pelletier
  • Playing With Plaster: Have you had the pleasure of chatting with Sue Pelletier? She is as funny as she is kind and talented. The way she incorporates plaster into her work is so imaginative. Her work has such a whimsical feel to it that I can’t help but smile when I see it.
Artwork by Michelle Ward
  • Holiday Projects: I’m just crazy about the holidays. In fact, as I type this, I’m also wondering how soon is too soon to put up my Christmas decorations? In this issue, we share a new take on the traditional advent calendar that will have you saving all of your mini mint tins. When I placed the piece out for art selection, just about everyone in the company walked past it while exclaiming how clever it was. There are also some awesome ideas for ornaments and other décor items inside.

I could go on and on about why I love this particular issue of Somerset Studio, but I think you get the picture. I think it’s one of our most artistically diverse issues, and I’m sure you’ll agree.

Thanks for the recap, Christen! If you’re curious to see more and can’t wait to get your hands on this issue of Somerset Studio, explore more articles and order your copy here.