I thought I may have died and went to pink roses heaven today! I went to visit a 92 years young lady that paints china. I made a connection with a neighbor of hers at a small local craft show before Christmas. There were just a few pieces displayed, but the intricacy was incredible. So I took her business card and finally made a point to drive over to her house--and this is what I saw!
I only wish I had my regular camera--I was snapping pics with my cell phone!! There were 3 long tables of all of this beautiful hand painted china--that doesnt include the 2 tables of Victorian lamps!
Full sets of China--service for TWELVE on one set-- wow--coffee and tea sets, canister sets, vases, bathroom accessories and so much more! Again, my cell phone photos do not show the incredible work Irene has done over the last 60+ years! She has won many awards and even painted China for Gerald Ford.
I snapped the above pic of this sign, I figured it had been used for quite some time. You see, Irene is originally from Whittier, California. She moved to Oregon 4 years ago to be closer to her only son and his family. She lives on 1.5 acres with this HUGE studio and still paints almost everyday. She does not look like she is 90+ years. I can only wish I have her good health at that age.
I ended up spending way more than I planned, but what girl could resist such beauty? I got a couple of her pieces that she painted in 1945--she signs and dates all her pieces as well as whether they were painted in California or Oregon. This is truly one remarkable lady, and I hope to go back to her studio soon and buy more! Irene does not sell on the internet, much less have a computer or email. Her sales are all word of mouth. I feel so lucky to have met her. If anyone has any interest in her pieces, please contact me and I can put you in contact with her.
