a peek inside ...

 my Strathmore visual journal

:: word play ::

Working with words...

 It is fun to play and bring it all to life! 

what one word could you bring to life? 

collage spread

:: journey :: 

It's a life's journey of finding ourselves,

finding our power, and living for yourself, not for everyone else. 

~ MARISKA HARGITAY

enjoy the journey... 

Evolved...

pockets... and more pockets.

:: file folder booklet :: 

 Over the weekend I ran with the idea...
inspired by paula phillips and her incredible talents, I could not resist! 
:: elastic rubber band mini book ::  

 This is how my mini file fold underwent a gradual change...

I created two more mini folders and gently tucked them inside the larger one I created

HERE.

Using the ribbons to bind the file folders was a delightful addition.

There is no need to waste paint... 

I kept tags near by, so I could splatter and scrap the extra right on!

 

The artful tags will be tucked away and in-between...

such a delightful processes through evolution, don't you think? 

We are the facilitators of our own creative evolution. 

~ BILL HICKS

Friday's Lovely Links

:: delightful to visit ::

enjoy

• foam paint roller stamps (TUTORIAL)- robruhn.blogspot.com 
• DIY - can wind chimes - learn2grow.com
• PROCESS: frida kahlo button art (video) - lilblueboo.com
• spinach and radish thepla (recipe) - litebite.in-healthy-indian-flat-bread-recipes
• mini photo flip book - mylifeasamagazine.blogspot.com
• fiber / book art - alofthesun.blogspot.com
• paper collage - artist hollie chastain

Have a wonderful weekend!

Letting go

:: imperfection ::

can be fun, whimsy, and sweet.

 to have the willingness to paint something simple...

 to have the courage to not be perfect...

 can lead us to our own decision, that our art is just the way we want it to be...

whimsy and sweet,

with all the little imperfections... just the way I like it!

Tuck it away...

file it under... fun!
:: file folder pocketbook ::

on your mark, get ready, let's go...

fold it, cut it, paint it... now I am getting excited!

four little pockets to nestle my tags...

 

trimmed with pretty tape, this makes me smile...

some days it just feels good to play!

Be Happy. Make Art. 

Studio Update

:: reclaim creativity ::

 born creative.

As children, we revel in imaginary play, ask outlandish questions, finger paint, scribble, and draw stick figures calling it artwork. 

We are so proud of what we have created without judgment or criticism... 

But over time, because of socialization and formal education, a lot of us start to stifle those impulses. 

We learn to be warier of judgment, more cautious, more analytical. 

This is where fear comes into play and inspiration is tossed out the wind. 

We are consumed with everyday living, deadlines, and the act of involvement; which becomes our cycle.

Family. Personal relationships. Work. Bills. Appointments. Life gets in the way, always. 

Questions start to surface... for me.

Am I wasting my time ?

Does creating anything artful make a difference ?

Does what a produce create any value to others ?  

Why should I "feel" guilty for wanting to sell my work ?

Who will want what I create ?

Will I ever be taken seriously as an artist ?

I love to teach art and dream of pursuing this online, can I ?

What is holding me back ? 

Above all... How can I keep from losing my creativity ?

I know, I know... I do it for the "LOVE OF ART!"

Yes, this is true. 

It has been my calling. A familiar feeling  "deep in my soul" I have had it all my life. 
I have had the opportunity to met some wonderful creative people, like myself, through the internet. 
My "artful" journey has been incredible thus this far... 
Building close relationships, sharing common interests, and offering artful pieces to one another - as an "expression" on my love towards others and art. 

This answers my question, " does creating art make a difference".
Here is a great example, of what started out as followers/readers of each other and our Blogs, now is an incredible friendship.
Debbie Combs - at peculiarme71.blogspot.com created this incredible video featuring me, for her Facebook group - The Enchanted Imaginarium.
I so badly, wished to share it with you, today on this post! 
** would not download to Blogger, sorry. Facebook settings did not give permission.
I do want to send out a "HUGE" THANK YOU... with all my heart to you Debbie!! ~xx 

I also, have been offered the opportunity to participate in a few online e-courses! 
As a student, which I am always eager to learn... how other artists' play in their own backyard. It is very inspiring to engage with art using different styles and techniques taught by other creative people. 

:: HUGE BONUS :: this does help answer the question, "how will I stay inspired".

Online Art Class / Instructor Denni Mulligan - Angels in the Architecture 
harvestmoon17.blogspot.com

Art Workshop / Instructor Carolyn Dube - Use Your Words 
carolyndubeartworkshops.com

During the time of taking these courses, I can not be everywhere at once.
This is just the reality of it all.
Honestly... it is difficult as times to be online, posting, editing photos, answering emails  etc. just with my day to day illness. I give it my all, truly I do... 
only to find some not as engaged towards efforts. (( sigh )) 
This causes me to feel that I am spreading myself too thin... when in reality, all I really wish to do is play, explore, and try new things. 
To share my process and experience with my readers. 
I must respect my time and space. 
My thoughts and feelings towards this subject are valid. 
With with in mind, I have decided to focus a little more art and being productive. 
Why I am sharing all of this with you? 
Perhaps I am not alone? 
There are others who feel this same way? Is is possible? 

I leave you with this thought... 

when I post on my Blog, share my art, my life, 

go to my art table to create, bring my inspiration to life;  

I am here whole-heartedly 

and 

bring this to the table each time. 

I have a purpose. I have meaning. 

I'm back...

:: las vegas ::

Had a wonderful time, loads of fun, and a well over- due time away...

the strip hotel

an adult "Disneyland"... do I need to say more!

:: paris las vegas ::

:: the strip ::

:: caesar palace ::

 :: rio ::

masquerade show in the sky

:: Bellagio ::  

absolutely beautiful at night...

fountain water show 

:: spectacular ::
:: I loved sharing my trip, to Vegas, with you all :: 
I do hope you enjoyed the photos and got a chance to experience a little of "Sin City".
I will be spending this weekend playing catch-up.
Now, time to unpack and see you all Monday.
XOXO 
Have a wonderful weekend!