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Potter, sculptor, mosaicist, stained glass artist, singer, musician, philanthropist, grandmother, Style Diva! Joining us at “Golden Hills Traditions Family Art Day,” Mt. Brow Winery on Saturday, Sept. 6th will be Tracey Smith Hillman–an incredible force of creative talents!  From her sensuous sculpture pieces to her whimsical stained glass stars, Tracey epitomizes the Renaissance Woman as she captures the creative impulse and harnesses all that energy to make exquisite pieces of art.

And she is an outstanding instructor!  Last winter a small group of my friends took a mosaic class with Tracey in her studio.  She guided each of us on a journey to design and make elegant stepping stones–each one giving gesture to dreams and hopes.  Through guided imagery, simple design technique and a quick but compelling lesson on color theory, Tracey helped us plan our stones.  Then she taught us techniques and a few tricks to make our mosaics. At the end of our day, we each went home beaming with pride and hefting its source–gorgeous mosaic stepping stones.  I’d encourage anyone to treat himself to a workshop with Tracey!  She tells me that a well-known art colony is considering her for an artist-in-residence position.  She would certainly be an amazing asset.  From her bronze sculpture and clay figures to her mosaic and stained glass work, Tracey’s sense of design and definition directs her exceptional technical abilitites. She is a gifted teacher, as she showed six of us last February.

Tracey has recently embarked on a new venture: Jewelry.  Tracey is developing a line of belts with coordinated necklaces (or the other way around, if you prefer).  Each piece is unique, based on ceramic molds that she has created.  She’s donated one set to our Foothill Farmlands ARTS Festival’s auction, which will take place on Saturday, September 13th at “Swinging in the Pines” dinner and gala. 

But it doesn’t stop there! My first experience with Tracey’s burst of talent is through music.  She has graced many stages as a jazz improv singer.  For years she was a part of Columbia College and Rod Harris’ Jazz Choir. A scat singer, free vocalist and great harmonizer, Tracey adds dimension and range to any vocal group.  Oh, yeah–She’s also a very hot flute player!  This weekend she’ll be at the Strawberry Music Festival with her silver rod, blowing out tunes and harmony lines, as she strolls the Jam Camps of our favorite camping music festival.

And I must acknowledge the vital contribution that Tracey and her hub Barry Hillman have made to all of us in Tuolumne County.  Barry has served on many boards for local organizations.  Tracey has spear-headed many charity fund raisers, always putting her elegant touch of style on each event. Plus, I’m lucky enough to have seen her in action with her two wonderful grandsons–lucky boys to have this grandma!

Oh, by the way, Tracey is just plain gorgeous, too!  I saved this for last.  She is a wonderful role model of a woman who is moving into Grand Dame Status with true grace, a knock-out smile and sparkling eyes.  She is certainly one hot Diva!

So, get over to Mt. Brow Winery at “Golden Hills Traditions” to meet Tracey Hillman and see her work.  She’ll be pal-ing up with ceramicist Dana Morton.  Between the two of them, you’re sure to find the perfect gift or something special for yourself!