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Uncertainty – A Parallel in Art & Life
I’m not sure about you but these days I’m feeling more uncertain about some things than I ever have. Rising prices, friends and co-workers who have had sudden illnesses, grocery shortages, and more. Having gone through a serious illness before, things can change quickly from one day to the next. Things can be uncertain. I thought I’d share a few of my favorite thoughts and helpful hints when uncertainty might come your way. They help me. Stand on your faith. Read a devotional book or an encouraging story. Take a break from the news Go outside and take a walk in nature Create art Share a cup of coffee with…
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Artistic Christmas Gifts
Recently I attended a boutique/craft fair and met the sweetest artist, Mindy Thompson. While she and I favor different mediums, we had plenty to talk about and chatted for quite some time. I’ve used resin (her medium of choice) on smaller scales for jewelry. To see her work on larger scales was so wonderful. I took some photos of her work (with her permission) and even bought a few things. I recently saw her at another boutique and she was probably one of the busiest booths. Her work is gorgeous, and prices are so reasonable for such unique pieces. She incorporates resin on platters, dishes, wood trays, coasters, shelves and…
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Fodder Clips
Bargain clips + Collage Fodder = Fodder Clips of all kinds. Warning - it's addicting
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Using Recyclables In Your Art
The below art journaling page is made from scraps and some paint. I am always picking up things off the ground that have rusty goodness or a look of old to them. I’m always keeping an eye out for things that have had a prior life or purpose and using them in art. I make sure I clean my hands and the item after collecting it, but recycling, or ‘upcycling’ is something can be fun and make your pages unique. I’m thinking more art journal here, but below are some items you could upcycle; Some things I’ve collected along the way and used include; Metal pieces that are rusty (can…
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So-Cal Free-For-All Art Museum Day
Saturday, February 2 – Sunday, February 3 will mark the 14th annual ‘So-Cal Museums Free-For-All’ Day. If you’re a local here in Southern California, you won’t want to miss. Art, Science, Botanical . . . this lovely offering is for you. Participating museums offer free admission. As a couple, family, for a fun date or even just ‘me’ time, there’s something for all to enjoy on this weekend. To find out which museums offer free admission, when and where, check out more HERE.
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Inserting Art (or your passion) Into Your Career
I’ve always had a desire to create and from a young age and enjoyed participating in art contests and creative events. I even had an opportunity to draw/create a logo for my softball team in Elementary School. As I matured, I always kept an art element in my life. I never had any formal art training but I would paint, create, teach, sell some of my artwork, collaborate and write as well. Another passion of mine . . . from a young age was the desire to serve my community and to enter into a law enforcement career which I did for most of my life. Throughout my law enforcement…
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Art and Summer Days
Some schools are already out for Summer break and others are wrapping up the academic year. Summer is here. I have the blessing of living in the beautiful O.C. 15 minutes from Laguna Beach and other cities that have an abundance of art galleries and artists. Each year I enjoy attending the Pageant of the Masters or the Sawdust Festival. The free trolleys around Laguna Beach allow you to get from one end of the beach city to the other end easily. Looking for Summer activities surrounding art? Looking for a date night or activity with the kids that aren’t going to cost you an arm and a leg? While the…
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Every Day Creativity
The last blog post I shared, I talked about taking a risk and sharing your art with others. I love that my planner is just that . . . a planner that helps me stay organized but that also provides a bit of space to be creative each day. The benefits of being creative each day are amazing. Here are just a few: Self-Expression – helps you express yourself sometimes when words can’t Releases Endorphins – the happy hormone Studies have shown it helps reduce stress Increases our steps toward bravery and promotes a feel of accomplishment Allows thinking outside the box; improves problem solving Helps you improve relationships by…
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Encouragement to Take a Risk with your Art
When you share you’re art, you’re sharing a piece of yourself. I think so often we are critical of ourselves and our art and that might hinder from moving forward with promoting our work. When I’ve submitted my work to a magazine company which I do regularly, there have been times that they chose to publish pages from my art journal that I most likely wouldn’t have. That old saying, ‘Beauty is in the eye of the beholder’ rings true. With that being said, I want to encourage you to share your art, don’t listen to naysayers, and move forward in spreading color and your beauty in this world. Be…
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IKEA Inspiration
As a family, we like to take a trip from time to time to IKEA. Our daughter leaves to head off to Montana State University for college in just a couple of days. IKEA has great dorm and design ideas. We enjoyed our time as we strolled through the showcase floors and even purchased a couple of items for her dorm. I’m going to miss our time together but it’s time for our baby bird to ‘fly.’ I’m always inspired when we go to IKEA and I thought I’d share a few photos that may inspire you as well! Enjoy!
