The Crimson Gypsy

Stains: The Good Kind-Like You Want

2011-08-19T22:48:00.002-04:00

This is a piece I did on a friend earlier in the Summer. She is super fit and has a lovely back, therefore I had to use it! Design by Alex Morgan, Photo, as always, Pat jarrett.

The Way Lace Lays

2011-08-18T19:38:00.002-04:00

Ladies & Gentlemen,

My new inestigations include lace patterns. As you can see below, the foot pattern- a first attempt- was not as successful and the second- see the knees. What I've learned:
stamping a pattern from a piece of lace doesn't work. Stick to freehand. Incongruity in actual lace looks charming and purposeful- it look sloppy when done with henna. Therefore, one must walk a fine line between naturally charismatic asymmetry and hot mess. Enjoy!

Fusion: In the sense of Design

2011-08-08T14:04:00.005-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I have learned many lessons in the past few months-the most obvious being that the Southern Summer Heat kills all of my motivation. I want to crawl into my freezer and sleep every time I open it for a cone. That being said here are some recent works.

This design is by Alex Morgan

I have a stain and bling version of this one coming soon!

This one though...well the girl sat still in my house for long enough for me to catch her- this is the result. Its a deco/militaryish/American Southwest Indian design thing. Love me some shoulder action.

original work.

Hardware & Software

2011-05-15T15:06:00.002-04:00

Ladies & Gentleman,

This is my new idea for accenting my Replacement Parts. Henna has trouble creating the overlapping depth inherent in clockwork mechanisms so here is my solution!

A Love Affair With Negative Space

2011-05-14T23:34:00.002-04:00

I love dense designs around funky negative space. New work just in time for The Steampunk Worlds Fair.

This first one is only a 10 hours stain- I'll post another with some bling after 48 hours.

Warm Weather Brings Blossoms

2011-05-03T11:42:00.002-04:00

and alliterations apparently.

Ladies and Gentleman,

A short burst of vernal art to celbrate this warmth and sun. Also, maybe it will get my garden to grow...
This design is based off of a embroidery pattern for a pomegranate blossom. Enjoy!

a lesson in Nouveau

2011-04-04T22:46:00.002-04:00

Ladies and Gentleman,

After a long absence, warmth has returned to the Shenandoah Valley signaling the showing of skin. In celebration of this I have started covering myself- and those not fast enough to get out of my reach- with henna.
More to come!

The Pretty Things Peepshow - The Jefferson Theater - Live Music in Charlottesville, VA

2011-03-10T13:22:00.000-05:00

The Pretty Things Peepshow - The Jefferson Theater - Live Music in Charlottesville, VA

I am so excited for this show! Sword swollowing lovelies and other sideshow hijinks in the Coney Island tradition!

Lost Stuff

2010-12-17T00:08:00.002-05:00

And by that I mean Time as well as henna. I recently came across this piece I did last Spring for a friend. If I had more arms, and they were positioned in a more tentacular way, I would cover my back with this kind of work. Enjoy the Solstice and the slush!

Time Warps and Master Plans

2010-11-17T16:36:00.002-05:00

As many of you may know, plans do not always work out the way you want them to, Master or otherwise. My new plan is to continue to rock what left of 2010 and plan even bigger for next year. More festivals, more business, more dancing, more costumes, more collaborations, more theatre, more awesome. Any questions?

Piano Hall Girl: A Dark Video with Bright Pants

2010-10-28T00:09:00.000-04:00

Ladies & Gentlemen,

For your viewing pleasure I present you with this moving picture! I do apologize for the dark, low quality and my untreatable sickness of stepping out of frame, but I think more video evidence is necessary to my work. Music is by Beirut and Beats Antique of course!

The story goes like this: This woman lives is a social restrictive world. Music halls are the Edwardian equivalent of getting down "up in da club" and as such is the only place this woman can cut loose. She loses a layer, limbers up and feels completely at home in the wild and fast brass band. But eventually the night ends, and she must pull on that concealing layer and walk home through a warren of dismally quiet streets.
Admittedly, she's a bit out of control and lacking in social graces- but manners are no fun at all...

Resist!

2010-10-14T22:33:00.002-04:00

I simply love this design. I love where I put it. I love how it looks on her skin- like a brass plate made human. And seriously, who doesn't love a Penny Farthing?
This post comes on the heels of great news! The Crimson Gypsy will be vending and slinging Replacement Parts henna at the 2011 Steampunk World's Fair in Somerset, NJ!

Replacement Parts: A New Series of Steampunk Body Adornment

2010-09-17T16:04:00.004-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

After a most productive venture into the North, I came the realization that I'm consistently creating mechanically beautiful designs. I'm calling this body of work Replacement Parts and will continue to collect more and more of them for my inventory. Of course, I have been inspired by steampunk aesthetics and think any stylish Neo-Victorian Lady would be spot on sporting this body adornment! Enjoy!

More Luscious Locks!

2010-08-17T11:14:00.002-04:00

This lovely lady wanted a more auburn color for her hair. She had grey that needed covering and hair of an unruly nature. By mixing henna and indigo together in a 2/3 henna 1/3 indigo ratio, we achieved the above result. Hair that shines and catches the light while covering stubborn grey strands and taming fuzz!

Enjoy!

Ooh La La Luxurious Hair!

2010-08-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

This post comes as a celebration of that radiating red hair color I love so well! This is 2 days after application so the copper has mellowed out.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of henna's ability to condition and strengthen hair. It brings out luster and gets rid of your pesky dandruff (and even lice!)It is safe for pregnant mommas and people with sesitivities to PPD and other conventional cosmetic products.
Sounds pretty awesome, I know.
So if you have any questions on usage or want to try henna on your lovely locks, drop me a line for a consultation or book an appointment!

Thoughts on a Quilt

2010-07-29T09:59:00.002-04:00

This design is inspired by a quilt I saw in my Aunt Cindy's art quilt book. We both loved the radiating lines and I was reminded of Meso-American geometry and Art Deco architecture in the same breath. Gilded with gold and embellished with emeralds it is my only jewlry for my birthday!

Pew! Pew! Pew!

2010-07-14T13:59:00.003-04:00

Question: What do ray guns shoot? Answer: Planets.

Who says henna designs are just for ladies? Check out these manly calves and the futuristic weaponry that goes with them!

Video Evidence!

2010-06-12T23:09:00.003-04:00

Ladies & Gentlemen,

For your enjoyment, The Crimson Gypsy presents Raqs Roulette's deadly dance of...deadliness! Please excuse the poor video quality but enjoy our sassy moves!

Raqs Roulette from Pat Jarrett on Vimeo.

The Crimson Gypsy presents: Raqs Roulette!

2010-05-30T00:30:00.003-04:00

Ladies & Gentlemen!

Last week Staunton, VA witnessed the debut of its one and only tribal fusion bellydance duo- Raqs Roulette! Performing along with the fabulous personages of the Slomski Brothers, Bon Bon Burlesque, Jet Velvet, and the Speakeasy Syndicate we loved our crowd and felt that you loved us back. Look out! More Vaudeville hijicks are afoot in the Valley!

The Master Plan

2010-04-26T09:58:00.002-04:00

Ladies and Gentleman,

I have a Plan. It even has a capital P. As 2010 is my self proclaimed year of "Do the damn thing" I have decided to take more strident action in my career as a henna artist. I plan to push harder for festivals and gigs in the area for body art. I plan to get my cosmetology license in order to do henna for hair in salons and learn things I have no way of figuring out myself. I will take my own bellydance training more seriously and work harder for gigs and to conquer my mortal enemy- Choreography.
This plan will inevitably lead to a need for international travel to teach and learn about henna all over the world, and the Master Plan begins to fall into place. In comes microfinancing for women henna artists to start up their own businesses and a strong network of safe supply and demand chains. This is the Plan. I will be its master.

On a more visual note- here is some fun new stuff I did for friend. Flying machines are also part of the Plan.

More Steam!

2010-04-07T14:12:00.002-04:00

These are a few more photos of some gear happy henna. Here's to keeping up the inertia!

These next 2 are pieces I did for some friends running in a race Easter weekend. They wanted to celebrate the occasion with some wicked body art.

The phoenix is a design by Alex Morgan, and the other is an original by yours truly. I got Japanses textiles stuck in my head! I love the contrast of geometric shapes with soft springtime flowers and a peacock.

New Work, New Year, New Season!

2010-03-17T16:46:00.003-04:00

Ladies and Gentleman I apologize for my aloof blogging behavior. Never fear kind people! With the crocuses coming up through the the soil and the sun shining skin can once again be exposed and thus needs henna!

These pieces have been inspired by the burgeoning warm weather and the lovelies that come with it.

You can actually peep the snowflake design on my arm in this one!

New 8 Week Session of Tribal Bellydance Classes! Ahhhhh!!!!

2009-12-23T18:40:00.005-05:00

Has the recent Snowpocalypse given you a new zest for life? Shimmy away the coming months of slush misery and join the new session of Tribal Fusion Bellydance classes at Shanti Yoga in downtown Staunton Virginia!

Starting January 12, 2010
Tuesdays nights 7:30-8:30 Wear "yoga" clothes and bring some water!
8 weeks=$100 Preregister or pay on the first day of class. If you pay in advance the Credit Card fairy can take care of it for you at Shanti- She will not be present on the first day of class!

I can do epic...

2009-12-13T20:39:00.003-05:00

This is my most recent out of the box henna! My fabulous friend Rebecca wants henna on a grand scale for her birthday- I was most happy to oblige. Personally, I love doing pieces that wrap and warp with the body's contours, so the collarbone/shoulder challenge was great fun!

Oldies but Goldies

2009-12-06T22:26:00.004-05:00

A few months back I got to work with some great musicians. I was JD and the Shenandoahs special guest during the CD release concert at Court Square Theatre in Harrisonburg, VA. All I have to say is that there is nothing on this Earth like a shimmy v. guitar solo fight to the finish! I love these guys and you should too! Check out JD and the Shenandoahs' album "Drink from the Knife."

Time for Holiday Cheer!

2009-11-22T11:47:00.004-05:00

As we all know, the next 2 months are full of festivities. Occasions to get dressed up and spend time with the people in our lives. "What on earth will I wear to thanksgiving dinner?" is on many a mind, but fear not! The Crimson Gypsy has the perfect solutions to your holiday accessorizing needs! Beautiful henna can make a statement at any holiday party and be replaced by a new and fresh design by Christmas!

Let us help you shop! GIFT CERTIFICATES for henna appointments, bellydance classes and parties are available for as little as $10! The Crimson Gypsy also carries a collection of all NATURAL BODY CARE products by Mystique Products including great gifts for guys too!

Don't forget to take care of yourself in all the hustle and bustle of taking care of others! Pamper yourself with luxurious Dark Chocolate Soap or a Soothing Foot Scrub by Mystique Products. Get your hair colored with all natural henna to relax and look you best in these hectic holiday months!

Whether its Thanksgiving, Eid, Yule, Solstice, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus or just for fun, The Crimson Gypsy can help you out with gifts, parties, or all natural beauty care!

The Crimson Gypsy Hearts JD & The Shanendoahs

2009-10-27T19:37:00.003-04:00

Big News!
Bellydance meets gritty blues rock at the Court Square Theatre in Harrisonburg Thursday, October 29th. Come down for a great show with opening acts, Lola Mullen and Nelly. Follow the link to get directions and learn more about the show! Hijinks and good music for only $6! CD release/aftershow party at the Artful Dodger, right next door after the concert!

http://www.courtsquaretheater.com/

Back from the Dead!

2009-10-19T21:35:00.002-04:00

New henna for the most beautiful month of October! Dainty clover bridal henna for a friend honeymooning in Ireland and an accent mirror stained with henna and embellished with gold leaf.

New Session of Bellydance at Shanti Yoga

2009-09-29T18:16:00.002-04:00

Come one, come all!

The new 4 week session of Tribal Fusion bellydance is upon us! Classes are twice a week- Tuesday & Thursday- so you get 8 classes for only $80!
Dress comfortably and feel free to bring a scarf to tie around your hips!

Aztec Shoulder Blade

2009-09-09T14:07:00.002-04:00

This is a blown up version of a detail from a different design. I wanted to do something on Michelle's shoulder blade because she's got such a beautiful back- and when she moves her arm or shoulder the whole piece will shift and move. I'm thinking Aztec High Priestess tattoo...

Lesson #1: Know Your Music

2009-08-26T23:03:00.003-04:00

This is a guide to most of the music I play during classes! I'll probably post more in the future but for now, I'll go by playlist and comment on which tracks are good for which moves. Sadly, I have no idea what some of these tracks are or where they came from- let us call them Mystery Tracks...
I encourage you all to get your hands on some of these hot beats!

Warm Up:
Mystery Tack (this is the really slow ambient one I play when you are all coming in.)
"Lebenese Blonde" by Thievery Corporation off of the album The Mirror Conspiracy (Fast)
Track 4 on Lorenna Mckennit's album Book of Mysteries. (slow: stretches and arms)
"Mishto" by Gogol Bordello from the album Gypsy Punks Underdog World (Fast & long: Presses!)
"Ooh La La" by Goldfrapp from the album Supernature (Fast)
"Come Around" by M.I.A. featuring Timbaland off of her album Kala. (Slow Hip Hop)
"Great DJ" by the Ting Tings from their album We Started Nothing. (Fast)
"Gossip Folks" by Missy Eliot & Ludachris from her album Under Construction. (Shimmy!)

Other music I am in love with and play a great deal of in class:
Beats Antique. They are musicians who compose FOR bellydancers! Check out their Myspace/website and check out their music. Specifically the song "Intertwine" which I tortured you with for learning to improv.

Bonobo
Awesome hip hop-ish music with great melody and tempo changes. I use them alot when we are hitting points on squares. Albums: One Offs Remixes & B Sides, Animal Magic, Dial M for Monkey. Fav song to dance to: The Sicilian from One Offs...

Ratatat
Purely instramental and mostly electronic. Best album for dancing: LP3

Niyaz
Awesome Middle Eastern Music! She is an amazing Arabic singer and she and her band do cross over stuff as well as traditional acoustic. CD I have now is called Parting the Nine Veils...or something like that.

Other songs from class:
"Zambra" by Dies Irae. Kind of Middle Easterny new wave electronica, heavy beats.
"Eastern Journey" by Biddu. Awesome high energy song which is very Indian sounding.
"Khaleegi Stomp: Thievery Corporation Remix" by Transglobal Underground. Fast paced.
"Shanti Ashtangi" by Madonna from Ray of Light. Very cool Indian fusion song.
"I Cash Radii" by Pentaphobe from the Bellydance Supertars 3 soundtrack. Slow
"Farangi Medley" by Emuzeki from their self titled album. This is great Middle Eastern music.

Ok no more! I have lots more music and if you would like more info on something or to hear it in class please let me know!

Carmel

Upcoming Classes!!

2009-08-24T12:49:00.002-04:00

Attention Ladies and Gentlemen!
Tribal Fusion Bellydance for Beginners will start on Tuesday, September 1st!
Classes will be held at Shanti Yoga Studio in Staunton, VA on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-9pm.
Sessions run 4 weeks with 2 classes per week. "How much will this awesome class cost me?" you may ask. The answer is $80 per session- thats only $10 a class! If you want to drop by occasionally for good dancing and fabulous company, its $12 per class.

Wear comfortable clothes (yoga stuff works) but no baggy shirts. Showing your belly is not required. If you have a scarf or coin scarf you can bring those to class!
We will focus on posture, basic moves and general shimmy awesomeness!

I hope to see lots of faces!

Carmel

Old Favorites

2009-08-24T12:43:00.002-04:00

This is one of my all time favorite designs! I've probably done this 4 times on myself over the past few years. I love how it moves with my skin and how it looks like a glove.

Bellies! Bellies! Bellies!

2009-08-03T13:55:00.002-04:00

This woman will be having a water birth and I thought the Tsunami was a perfect design for her! This was 2 days after the mud so the stain could get darker.

This was a small design that reminds me a laurel leaves, so maybe this baby will be as powerful as a Roman emporer!

The Tower

2009-07-23T18:10:00.005-04:00

This is the result of my original sketch! I used henna for the outlines and resin based body paint for the color work. This piece took about 2.5 hours because of the coloring.

Sketches for Future Projects

2009-07-07T18:53:00.003-04:00

I got it in my head that I should do a Tarot card design in henna. The Tower kept popping into my thoughts and I think its easily recognizable. I'm going to do this one on a friends leg so check back for the finished product!

Actually a recent conversation with a customer in the shop got me thinking about occult designs and this is where the Tree of Life comes in. This is still a work in progress and I need to make some decisions on how much I'm going to add to it. I would like to number the Sephirot in Arabic...So far, I've got a designs which corresponds to the meaning of each node, or Sephirot. Wisdom, beauty, foundation, logic, etc. I think if I use this for my show then I will have a companion print of what they mean and what the Tree of Life actually is. I've also chosen to include the 11th aspect, which shows up in only some Trees and represents God's knowledge permeating all things. Let me know what you think!

These are two different henna designs of Palmistry diagrams. The left side is based off of a compilation of images I found and the right side is a corrected version after consulting an actual palm reader. Stay tuned for the henna results!

This is a steam punk sketch unrelated to the occult! I want to do this on a guys arm and make it look like warm copper plating over the shoulder. The design will end at the edge of the scapula in the back and follow the shoulder muscle in the front. I love the idea of the gears and such twisting with the movement of the arm and shoulder!

New Promo Photos & Dangerous Hands!

2009-07-01T19:23:00.003-04:00

These are just 2 of the new photos Pat took for me. I'm such a fan of those brass Thai dancing fingers! I made the headpiece and I think the profile shot has a very Alphonse Mucha feel. Check out some of Pat's other work at his blog As They Are Seized, www.patjarrett.blogspot.com.

Peruvian Textile Man

2009-06-19T12:47:00.002-04:00

I pulled this guy off of an ancient piece of textile art from Peru. his coloring was orange on a yellow cloth- much like the stain will be on this hand! He wraps around a bit on the wrist and this is an original piece for my collection of Meso-American inspired henna designs.

Crysanthemums are sprouting from her skin!

2009-06-07T22:20:00.003-04:00

This is the starboard side of this large design. The giant bloom peaks over her shoulder and balances the more dainty flowers on the other side. This is my new favorite flower to draw!

Aztec Lightning Veins

2009-06-04T14:04:00.002-04:00

This is my version of a Aztec style lightning running along the veins. On the outside it actually look very robotic- so it could be "Aztec Robot Lightening Veins"! The design wraps from inside to the outside right above the cuff line so it can be hidden under a long sleeved shirt. because of the wrap on the forarm, the design is always visable and it looks awesome when gesturing!

Steam Punk Henna

2009-06-04T13:43:00.002-04:00

This is my first experiment with Steam Punk imagery in the realm on henna. I have plans for a mechanized heart and a half sleeve with peaking gears. The main problem I must solve is that so many clockworks have overlapping layers- this is nigh impossible to communicate with henna in a readable way. But this is just the first in an emerging trend of my work!

North African arm

2009-05-27T16:30:00.002-04:00

This is a North African pattern. I designed it to hit at mid-forearm in order to hide it under a 3/4 sleeve.