by Percy Cat | Nov 30, 2009 | Art Basel Miami, art business, Art events, Bag of the Week SALE, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, GIFTS, Greeting Cards, Miami, Miami Beach, paintings

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with so many events this week, but still want to get out, see fabulous art and maybe even do a little holiday shopping…you will definitely want to visit our One-Night-Only, Holiday Art Bazaar on Sat, Dec. 5th at the Mutiny Hotel in Coconut Grove, Florida.
The Bazaar starts at 6 and runs until 9 pm. Arrive early, enjoy complimentary champagne and chocolates, meet the artists, see original paintings and prints, sculpture, designer handbags, custom made jewelry, reiki demonstrations, and much more…all created by the following local and international artists:
Shari Beffingham, Leo Casino, Debra Cortese, Laura Cerwinske, Karen Deilke, Pauline Goldsmith, Carol Haggiag, Atena Komar, Monique Lassooij, Maria Napoles, Irina Patterson, Valentina Ramos, Maui Reple, Fevi Reyes, Eileen Seitz, Harry van Gestel.
The Mutiny Hotel is presenting this event as part of their Pure Imagination program in conjunction with the monthly Coconut Grove Art Stroll. You can also enjoy poolside cocktails and even stay for dinner at Atchana’s East/West Kitchen, located right on the premises and just a few steps from the Holiday Art Bazaar!
To see samples from all of the artists visit this blog post and our Holiday Art Bazaar event page on Facebook.
Where else can you enjoy complimentary champagne and chocolates, hear great live jazz, wrap up your holiday shopping with delightfully unique art gifts and not have to pay an admission charge?
Mark you calendar right now for Saturday night, December 5th and join us at The Mutiny Hotel, 2951 S.Bayshore Dr, Coconut Grove, FL 33133.
Many of the artists will have special offers available only during this event!
For example: I’ll be showing my line of handbags and, for this event only, when you BUY ONE bag at the regular price of $130. you can get a 2nd bag at 50% off! Click here to preview Cortese Design Bags.
Holiday Art Bazaar: FREE Admission. Valet parking ($8.00 – a bargain most anywhere in Miami!)
Just posted Pauline’s Painting News in the comments below. Here’s an image from one of the cards Pauline will have at the show. Package of 4 amazing botanical images @10. Great Stocking Stuffers!

Tropical Botanic Art Greeting Cards - Goldsmith Galleries
by Percy Cat | Jan 19, 2009 | nature's energy
In early January, the Fashion Industry Insiders held a casting call to review the work of various member designers and the turn out was outstanding! Designers were critiqued on quality, design, being on-trend, and wearability. While castings were being held, FII members had the chance to network among themselves, exchanging ideas and admiring each others’ work.
The designers chosen from this casting are the official “FII Designers To Watch.” As part of a new FII initiative, twice a year (Spring and Fall), member designers will be chosen to participate in this elite group, leading up to the year-end “FII Designer of the Year.” The two groups of designers will have the opportunity to participate in an FII-produced fashion show at a local venue, presenting specific pieces of their lines to their peers, buyers, media and clients. Our goal is to provide a platform for our designers to launch a full-scale business. This initial platform will offer exposure and open doors to magazine editorials, new industry contacts, purchase orders and the ability to grow to the next step of their career. The designer who best takes advantage of these opportunities and continues to grow as a designer, as well as in their business, will have the potential to become the “FII Designer of the Year.” This title is given to the member who best exemplifies quality artistry with a mix of business saavy.
Congratulations to our Designers To Watch, Spring 2009
Apparel: (brand name – designer or member)
Miranda M – Margarita Miranda, Brazilian swimwear
Olivia Lucas – Miriam Carnase, resort
Voluptuous You – Desiree Fleming, plus size resort
Doni Designs – Diana Moyet, evening resort
Eliane – Stephanie Camputaro (Sales Rep), resort
Passeig Barcelona – Sara Martinez, resort
Float Designs – Ramona Senese, resort
Elite Clothing – Jared Braverman, graphic tees
Accessories and Jewelry:
Romaly – Pilar Rodriguez
Cortese Designs – Debra Cortese
Gem Couture Inc. – Melody Saleh
Fevi Reyes Designs – Fevi Reyes
Belle Pour La Vie – Eva Estime’-Polynice, Yvette Estime`
Celestial Designs – Sofia Amadi
Barbara Brunton

Designers to Watch, Spring 2009 Fashion Show
INVITATION TO “RESORT WEAR”
Please join us on Thursday evening, February 26th at the “FII Designers to Watch, Spring 2009” Resort Show. Appetizers and mingling start at 6:00pm; show starts at 8:00pm. Mix Ultra Lounge, Hollywoods newest Martini Bar, will be hosting this event and offering guests free appetizers and one free drink. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. FII members and their guests can RSVP at www.meetup.com/Fashion-Insiders. Non-members can RSVP by emailing: fashioncouncil@msn.com