blanco bunny

I'm back. For real, this time.

2011-09-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

I'm back folks. Back in action. Motivated to blog, create and be inspired. So here it goes...a little Blanco Bunny blog update:

• I am going to be a reporter for The Rapidian for ArtPrize! I am SO excited about this. I have a few behind-the-scenes interviews lined up and will share more details once the articles and videos are up.

• I am going to be an artist in Beneath the Tree! This was just what I needed to get back into making things...making art, having craft nights with good friends and just being creative. Happy again.

I still have my regular 8-5 job, too, which keeps me very busy. But, I am going to document the process here, have some tutorials and share some inspiration. So come back soon...because I will be here!

Much Love,
Blanco Bunny

Wow. It's been too long.

2011-02-13T07:10:00.000-08:00

Boy did I ever let this blog slip. Geez. Anyway I have a full time job now (hooray!) and have been super busy since my last blog post, which was way too long ago I will admit. Truth be told, I forgot. I forgot to blog. Then I realized that I actually LOVE blogging here...so I am going to try and change my habits and blog more often. More intentionally. Just more. I am not going to hold myself to any set number of blogs per day or week. I just need to do it. For my sanity and for art's sake because, let's face it, I create more art if I blog about it. So, here I go......

I'm back!

2010-04-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

Well, kids, I am back. Back to blogging. Back to working with my dog and my cat in my "office." I like it. I have a lot to share with you and cannot wait! Check back soon.

Howdy Stranger

2010-02-19T09:06:00.000-08:00

I have the day off today and am playing catch-up. Catch-up on house cleaning, laundry, freelance projects, blogging...the list goes on and on, really. I am actually feeling very relaxed today and am enjoying this much needed time to catch-up. I am hoping to get so much done today that I can play with fabric or on my loom tonight. So, until next time........

Pizza Dough

2010-02-03T17:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, so my friend wrote about making homemade, frozen pizza on her blog and now I think that is a fabulous idea. Since I am gone 50+ hours a week for the next few months, I have decided to try and make some things ahead for quick weeknight meals. I think her idea is fabulous. I would, however, like to use a different crust so I found a couple of alternatives:

• Pizza Dough for Hippies via Bread & Honey

• This HEALTHY Pizza Dough via GET BETTER

I usually use this recipe from Donna Hay and have successfully replaced half of the AP flour with whole wheat flour but have never managed a 100% whole wheat dough that actually tasted good and was not heavy. So, I think I should get some vital wheat gluten and test this out. I have baked 100% whole wheat bread using vital wheat gluten and it turns out beautifully every time. I have no doubt that this will work for pizza dough, too. Happy Baking and please share in the comments section if you tried either recipe or the technique described for freezing pizza. I would love to hear from you.

Freelance Work

2010-02-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

Hey there, bunny readers. I forgot to tell you that I just started a freelance job. Woohoo! It requires me to travel everyday and work 40 hours a week, so I am going to post when I can :)

Paper Cut Love

2010-01-31T07:13:00.000-08:00

I just discovered Ingrid Siliakus while looking at Apartment Therapy. Wow. I have tried my hand at making paper pop-up books, cards, etc., but have never actually made paper cut art. I think I am going to have to try it. Soon.

So, if you feel inspired to either look at more fabulous paper cut art or are in the mood to make some of your own, here is a mini list to get you started:

• Angry Chicken has a BUNCH of posts on paper cut art just use her search box and type in "paper cut"

• Scherenschnitte, the art of paper cutting

• The work of Peter Callesen

• Tord Boontje (make sure to check out his other work, too...fabulous)

•Elsita and the art f paper cutting

Now go grab some fabulous paper, a sharp exacto knife, a pencil and a self healing mat and get started. Oh and if you have a link to a web site or artist that I did not list, please leave them in the comments section for myself as well as other to get inspired by. Happy paper cutting!

The Tea Sub

2010-01-31T07:07:00.001-08:00

How stinkin' awesome is this tea sub? Very. Being a lover of tea, I think I may need to purchase this.

Images found via Swiss Miss

The Truth

2010-01-29T07:07:00.001-08:00

This poster was created by Mikey Burton. I just recently discovered his work and can sum it up in one word: Awesome. I could not agree more with this poster.

Image found via Swiss Miss

Let's Talk Typographic Posters

2010-01-27T08:50:00.000-08:00

Piotr Fedorcyzk found via Smashing Magazine

Alex Banks found via Smashing Magazine

Technix found via Smashing Magazine

That's just a few that caught my eye this morning while working. I have to design six posters with a lot of text on them and was looking for inspiration. I think I found some. I also think I need to use Flickr more often. You should reall check out the Typographic Inspiration Pool on Flickr. I just discovered it and wow! I have an account with Flickr and never do anything with it. Guess I should add that to my list of habits I need/want to change, eh?

Eye Candy: The Art of Rex Ray

2010-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

If you have not noticed, I have a thing for collage. I also have a thing for the art of Rex Ray. His website is beautiful and colorful; very inspirational to me as a designer. So colorful, well thought out, easily navigated, etc., etc., etc. Sigh. In fact, his site has made me want to re-design my own site and make it a bit more me...a better reflection of me as a designer, artist, person, mother, wife. I should also note that his work makes me want to go make some collages right now. I have been pondering a collage a day, much like this here, but am not sure I can commit to it. I can't even remember to take a photo a day, or write a blog post a day! But, hey, bad habits die hard and if I want to change my habits I have to work hard at it. So here I go, changing.........

Image found Via Rex Ray

Yes, please. I will take one!

2010-01-27T08:26:00.001-08:00

I think I *need* this. Badly. I even have the wall space for it! Their site has countless other designs to choose from, all of which are just as drool worthy.

Image found via StickHOME

Procrastinating

2010-01-25T07:20:00.000-08:00

That is what I am doing right now. Remember that design project I posted about on Friday? Well, turns out it has some limitations, which is a good thing. I think parameters or guidelines would be better words. Anyhoo, I am stuck. I have hit that creative wall with a loud thud. So I decided to do what I do best...procrastinate. I have found that if I allow myself to get lost in something then I work better under pressure. Weird, I know. I am pretty sure it is genetic.

What about you? What do you do when you hit that wall and you HAVE to get something done?

I've Been A Busy Bunny

2010-01-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I got a freelance project. A project that I was given instructions to "go nuts and be creative." Wow and ugh all at the same time. So, needless to say, I have been brainstorming. Looking. Watching and observing. Notetaking and then working on some concepts. I just sent the first round of concepts ideas in and am a little nervous, to be totally honest. I am going to re-do my ideas later this evening. I find that I am better at this later at night. Until then...have a wonderful weekend. Oh, and I will share the final design once I have finished.

Things I Am Loving Right Now

2010-01-20T13:02:00.000-08:00

First: A Solution for Blanket Hogs...perfect for me and my hubby (Image found via Apartment Therapy)

Second: A WPA poster for some design inspiration (Image found via Coroflot)

Third: I really love the look of that firewood wall found at Parliament in Portland, Oregon (Image found via Design*Sponge)

Fourth: A FABULOUS solution to organizing your sewing project parts (Image found via Craftzine)

Back On Schedule

2010-01-20T13:01:00.000-08:00

I am sorry for not posting yesterday. I had a very full plate yesterday! I will be back to posting everyday now so stay tuned. I am going to upload some Project 365 photos for you to see.

Photo Stories

2010-01-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

My dad emailed me this photo last week. My great Aunt Sonny, who will be turning 98 this year, is in it. This is her high school basketball team. Pretty cool, eh? I thought it was interesting that there even was a high school girls' basketball team back then.

Moss House

2010-01-18T11:41:00.000-08:00

I think I have said before that I love moss. So, naturally, I thought this moss house was SO cool that is featured today over on Design*Sponge. I think this year I am going to do a little moss graffiti on some pots and the outside walls of my home, since it is brick.

Image found via Design*Sponge

I Like It

2010-01-18T11:37:00.001-08:00

Simple words, beautiful typography and the truth. Can't get much better than that.

Image found via Frazier & Wing

Also, on a side note, I would love to make some of these garlands and mobiles for my home. Please check out the rest of the work over at Frazier and Wing, too.

A Bedroom Makeover In Process

2010-01-15T11:48:00.001-08:00

I saw this post over at Apartment Therapy and instantly fell in love with this room and the idea of a bed on the floor. I have been wanting to re-do our bedroom for awhile now, but am on a limited budget. Plus I am a big fan of using what you have already and shopping at thrift stores. So, the first step was to actually put our bed on the floor. We ditched our old metal bed frame and put both mattress and box spring on the floor. At first, I was not sure about it, but then I slept great that night....and every night since we did this. I asked my husband and he said the same thing. So it's on to phase two, making the bed look pretty and rearranging the room (hence the numerous posts yesterday about textile love...I am thinking about making some duvet covers, quilts and throws, maybe even a rug and some curtains). I only wish I could paint the walls. We rent our house and our bedroom has this HORRIBLE floral border at the top of the room and our landlord does not want us to take it down. The wall color is not my first choice, but I can live with it. I can make the paint color work. I have been trying to think of clever ideas to cover/hide the wallpaper and not damage it. Something removable and temporary. Do you know of anything to hide ugly wallpaper? If so, I would love to hear your ideas.

Image found via Apartment Therapy

More Textile Love

2010-01-14T12:03:00.001-08:00

These GORGEOUS quilts are made by Sally Campbell. I love the colors. I love the texture. I love the stitching. And I especially LOVE the raw edges! I think I am going to go dig through my fabric stash right now to see what I can come up with. I have a bunch of linen that would look lovely in something like this. Here is an interview with Sally that is full of wonderful pictures documenting the fabric, from dyeing to finished product. Makes me want to go grab my buckets, get my dye out and get started!

Image found via Mint

I Love Textiles

2010-01-14T08:52:00.001-08:00

Isn't this piece beautiful and fascinating? I found it over at the Sri Threads blog. Beautiful. You should check out the Sri Threads website, too. It is FULL of vintage Japanese and Indian textiles. So much inspiration......

Image found via Sri Threads

Putting Words Into Action

2010-01-14T07:09:00.000-08:00

" Shoot.

Shoot everyday.

Shoot everything.

Shoot all the time."

- Heather Morton

Yup. That is what I am going to do. Go shoot something. Anything. I am always talking about how I would love to further develop my photography skills, build up a portfolio and do portrait work. Well folks, today is the day that I start. Period. I am just going to do it. I will be posting my images here as well as on my website and join some Flickr groups, too. Self portraits, landscapes, still lifes, food, portraits...you name it. I am just going to shoot. Shoot everyday. Shoot everything. Shoot all the time. What wonderful advice.

FYI Heather Morton's blog is awesome! You should check it out. I just discovered it today, through the magic of Twitter. You will not be disappointed.

Artists That I Am Digging Right Now

2010-01-13T10:33:00.000-08:00

This changes frequently. I look at other artist's work and become totally inspired. I thought I would share some of them who have caught me eye lately:

• Alisa Burke, and make sure to visit her blog I am not in love with her website, but I love her graffiti inspired designs

• Kate Carr stunning!

• Nightwood, reincarnated furniture

• Lisa Congdon's Collection A Day

What about you? Do you have any that inspire you? Please feel free to leave what/who inspires you in a comment.

Update....I added one more artist who I adore and completely forgot to list here. Duh! Ann Wood. Go check out her site.

Inspiration from Nature

2010-01-13T10:30:00.000-08:00

Aren't spider webs beautiful? I am going to try to use them in my fiber art. Well, not actual spider webs, just their designs. Fascinating. I am thinking some embroidery and dyeing or dicharging.

Photo Stories

2010-01-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

Oh, dear bunny readers, I do apologize for not posting yesterday. I got lost in organizing my photos on my computer and started reminiscing about when my boys were younger. Remembering the stories behind those photos and being thankful that I take so many, but then regretting that I do not take enough. Do you ever think about the power of a photograph? I do. I think photographs are amazing and that photography is such a powerful medium to work in.

With that being said, I am going to take even more pictures this year. Purposeful pictures but yet un-posed and candid pictures. Important pictures. I am simply going to take more pictures. Period. I also thought that you (myself included) might like to read some tips and tutorials on taking better pictures as well as look at some photographer's portfolios for inspiration. You see, that is what I would like to improve on and build upon this year...my photography. I would LOVE to start my own portrait photography business. So, here comes another very short list:

• Hot to Take Great Family Photos via Pop Photo

• 11 FREE alternatives to PhotoShop via the Photo Argus

• Katheryn Love's portfolio

• Simply Breakfast and Simply Photo

• Digital Photography School...this site is FULL of useful information and tutorials.

• Some tips on starting your own photography business from Photojojo

I thought the above quote was very fitting for this post. And, on that note, I am off to take some pictures and organize that studio so I can start to work on forming a habit.

Another snowy photo

2010-01-10T14:21:00.000-08:00

This is an old photo, from our old house. A house that I miss. Sigh. Anyway I saw this post over on Katy Elliot's blog (a new favorite of mine) and think I might have to go outside tomorrow to take some gorgeous snow photos. I love how they really celebrate white space and simplicity. The images from her blog are by Scott Peterman. Simply beautiful.

Fun Weekend

2010-01-10T14:18:00.000-08:00

I spent the night at my sister's house Friday and stayed until late afternoon on Saturday. It was such a great time. We rarely get to do this. This occasion was extra special...I helped her learn to sew on her very own sewing machine. We had a great time drinking tea, laughing, sewing, cutting, shopping, etc. I hope we get to do it all again soon. I have some pictures of the weekend and will have to post them tomorrow.

Maybe One Day...

2010-01-08T08:31:00.001-08:00

I think Moomah is pure genius. I have always wanted to open up a shop/studio space similar to this. Maybe one day, when I am more brave, it will actually happen. Make sure to visit the Moomah blog, too.

Image found via Bloesem Kids

A Good Day

2010-01-07T17:32:00.001-08:00

Today my internet connection was not working. At first this was a HUGE annoyance but then it turned into a blessing in disguise. Why? It made me sit down and weave. It was great. I made my first scarf! I will have to post pictures tomorrow. There is one part on the scarf that is sort of wonky looking. In my opinion, that's part of the handmade charm. Plus this is the first time I have woven on this loom. Now that we know each other, I see many, many fabulous projects coming in the very near future. First I have to buy more yarn ;)

Tea Time

2010-01-06T10:15:00.001-08:00

I got one of these IngenuiTEA pots for my birthday along with several teas from Adagio Teas. I cannot tell you how wonderful this thing is! I used it for the first time while at the Pages Project at The Sparrows. My husband ordered an oolong for me. Not only was the tea delicious (I got some along with my IngenuiTEA) but the pot was fun to use. Amazing. If you love tea like I do, then you need one. Trust me! Each tea also comes with a set of brewing instructions right on the tin, which I think is pure genius. I am off to have a tea party now.

Image found via Pop Gadget

Update: My first brew was Pu-Erh. Heaven in a cup...that's all I am going to say.

Lovely

2010-01-05T07:18:00.000-08:00

Inspiration for your creative side

2010-01-05T07:09:00.000-08:00

This morning is one of those mornings. I should really get to work on something, but I am having a creative block. So, I thought I would share some of the things that caught my attention while conducting "research" on the internet:

• Beautiful installation art by Emily Ann Nachison

• One of my favorite sources for inspiration, dear ada

• Lena Corwin's blog

• One of my all-time faves, Hula Seventy

So, on that note, I am going to go and take some pictures. Hopefully that will get my creative juices flowing. What about you? What do you do when you are stuck, creatively, and want to make something...anything?

Whoops

2010-01-04T07:35:00.000-08:00

See...I already forgot about that whole post a day thing. Guess that means I will have to do two today, besides this dorky one.

Pages Project, Phase Two

2010-01-02T06:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my family and I ventured out to my friend, Holly's, Pages Project Phase Two at The Sparrows. We had a great time, drank some great tea and ate some cookies. If you are in the area you should stop by, support a local business and fill out a page or two. Of course I forgot to take my camera and take a picture for 365....so I guess that 365 starts today ;)

This project also made me realize how much I love handmade journals/books and that I should really do it more often. So I have decided to start a new routine, a twist on Project 365. I will take a photo of something everyday and I will also fill out at least one page in a journal, everyday. I cannot wait to get started.

Image found via Pages Project

I almost forgot to tell you....

2010-01-01T11:30:00.001-08:00

...I got one of these looms for my birthday! I am SOOOOO excited to start weaving on it. I did not get the stand, just the loom, which is fine with me. I see many, many scarves, placemats, etc., in the future.

Image found via Ashford Loom

An oldie, but a goodie

2010-01-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

Once again my backyard looks just like this. Full of footprints, miniature snowmen and the thought of spring...eventually.

Motto for 2010

2010-01-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

I like this quote. I think it is a good one to start off the New Year. Also, if you would like to read more about Buckminster Fuller, please visit here. He is truly inspirational.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T10:37:00.000-08:00

I have decided that I am going to do a post a day for all of 2010. So far, so good. Here is my post for today, albeit a short one. I am going to spend some time with my family and I hope you get to do the same.

I always make New Year's resolutions but never keep them. How about you? Does this phenomenon happen to you, too? Well, just so you can hold me accountable, here is a list of mine:

• Project 365...again!

• A blog post a day (including some tutorials and more photos)

• A blog idea journal (I have one started already)

• Expand my skills and knowledge as a graphic designer, photographer, artist

• Make more things myself instead of buying them at the store

That should keep me busy for awhile. What are your New Year's resolutions?

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T10:46:00.001-08:00

A very Merry Christmas to all of my readers :)

Crazy Time

2009-12-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

I think they should rename the holidays "crazy time" because that is exactly what it is. Crazy. In a good way, though. Here is a list of things I have been up to:

• I made 60+ salt dough ornaments for school parties...they are going to decorate them using this great, easy and super cute tutorial found here. The boys and I made some examples last night and they are not only fun to make but they are also sort of addictive, too.

• I have made some photo journals for gifts using this tutorial. I have discovered some ways to make this even easier and, when I get a spare moment, I will post about my discoveries. FYI they turned out great and are really easy and fast to make.

• I have started making some of these lovely paper whites to give as gifts to teachers, friends, family and myself of course:)

• I also made a bunch of tote bags, scarves, handmade cards, books, furoshiki...lots of stuff. I still have to get those pictures off of my camera and onto this blog so that you can see them.

• The boys and I are going to make a few of these for gifts for the grandparents. They are so neat!

Anyway, that at least gets you up to date on what I have been up to. What about you? I would love to hear from you.

MIA again

2009-12-14T08:07:00.001-08:00

Sorry for being MIA again! I was working like mad to get ready for my very first craft show, making Christmas presents, getting more freelance work lined up, etc. But this week I am back to my normal schedule and have a bunch of posts planned for you...so stay tuned and check back very soon!

PS...I remembered to take pictures! YAHOOO! On my to-do list is to make a studio in my basement so that I can take better product pictures. It should be fun!

Confession Time

2009-11-30T08:17:00.000-08:00

Do you ever let yourself get overwhelmed and intimidated by the amount of talented people out there and by the amazing things they make and create? I do. As I embark on my new journey into the world of freelance artist, I must admit that I get intimidated easily, distracted easily and overwhelmed easily. That thought of "holy crap...people are going to see MY work" and "what if they do not like it?" ring constantly in my ears. The others that I ALWAYS wrestle with are "no one wants to hire me...look what John Doe can do" and "will someone actually buy this from me?" Seriously, that is not why one should make art nor is it the reason why you become an artist. Yes, the artist depends on the public to view the art and interact with it but, ultimately, isn't art all about the artist? About an artist's idea(s), feeling(s), observation(s), fear(s), doubt(s), etc........

Well, today I have decided to ignore those thoughts and feelings. I have decided to change my daily routine and to not become overwhelmed, intimidated, distracted, frustrated, etc., by the work of others. I LOVE looking at art and becoming inspired by the work of others but, dang it, I have a voice, too. I have something I want to say and something I need you to see and hear. So today, I am going to become fearless, brave, courageous and bold. I am going to trust my instincts because I have found that, when I do, good things happen.

I have also decided that this new attitude requires a journal to write in and doodle in. A support system of sorts, where I can be brutally honest, spontaneous and just let creativity flow out from my head, to my hand and onto the paper. So, I am going to start a new journal. I know I have one since I just started organizing my studio (again) and purging it of things I "might use one day in the distant future." My plan is to scan in my daily writings, drawings, whatever, and share them with you, here. If you want to join me, please leave a comment. I would love to have some support! Now go get started!

Some more goodies!

2009-11-24T14:03:00.002-08:00

Does anyone out there know what kind of flowers are in this photo? I have no idea, but they sure are beautiful.

Here's another one....

2009-11-24T14:03:00.001-08:00

I've been working

2009-11-24T13:59:00.001-08:00

More posts and things to come soon...but for now, I thought I would give you an in-progress teaser of what I have been doing.

Gift Idea Tutorial Round-Up

2009-11-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

Hello, dear Bunny readers!

I thought I would post some tutorials to things that I would like to make for gifts this holiday season. I hope you enjoy this little mini round-up of tutorials :)

• 2010 Photo Calendar from Shutter Sisters

• This FABULOUS linen scarf

• Recycled magazine bows

• Burlap placements that the kiddos can make

• This linen bag

• Some funky artwork using this technique here

This is only the short list...I always have WAY too many things I want to make for people. This year, however, with the economy being yucky, I think I am going to make more of an effort to actually do them. Ahead of time :)

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my two wonderful boys, who make me laugh, smile and cry. I love them dearly! I am also thankful for my husband, who is always supportive of me and my artistic endeavors. I love you! I am also thankful for my art supplies, paper, my camera, my sewing machine, my fabric stash and my computer. Silly, I know, but they are an integral part of who I am and what I do.

I also wanted to post two things that I think are WONDERFUL ideas:

• Help-Portrait...if you are a photographer, I think you should sign-up for this wonderful event.

• Shutter Sisters' One Word Project. This month's word is gratitude.

What about you? What are you thankful for?

I won!

2009-11-19T13:11:00.000-08:00

Wow. I was one of three people chosen to get 2,000 diecut business cards printed for FREE!!! I cannot wait to see them printed in person. I will have to post pictures once they arrive. I found the contest over at You the Designer and it was sponsored by the folks over at UPrinting. Both are great websites. I found UPrinting's file uploader to be REALLY easy to use and their online proofing system allowed you to remove a file and re-attach it if you accidentally uploaded the wrong thing, which is nice. I will have to report back on the quality of the prints once I receive them.

Printmaking Experiment

2009-11-16T09:07:00.001-08:00

In the spirit of my Recycle Bin Project, I decided to start making prints again (see this post here for an explanation of my experimental process). I used this tutorial, here via Jezze, for a homemade ink pad in the very first picture. This thing was awesome, but the plate did not work so well. It was slightly convex; I will DEFINITELY use my plexi-glass panel the next time I want to print. BTW the salt trick really does work! The second image is a stamp I made using a peanut butter jar lid from the recycle bin and some self-stick foam scraps. This ended up being my favorite stamp of the day. The peanut butter jar lid has a raised edge, so I had to wipe off ink before I printed. I have some stamps I made with a double layer of foam and will have to let you know how these work out. I also think I might try another type of lid...who knows! The last image is a test print on some scrap fabric I had. I L-O-V-E using masking tape as a guide. Plus it will catch any extra ink that I forgot to wipe off from the lid. I also cannot stress the importance of the test print. As excited as you may be to just get started, it is HIGHLY recommended that you do several test prints and edit, refine, revise your design, if needed. Seriously!

Let me know if you have any tips or tricks up your sleeves.

An Altered Book: 2009

2009-11-16T08:55:00.001-08:00

I thought I would give you a sneak peek on an altered book I started working on. Right now, I loaned it to a friend to show her art class but once I get it back I will post some more images. It is still a work in progress, but I like seeing the progress pictures as well as the finished product pictures. The first image is a detail shot of the texture on one of the pages. The second shot is a detail of the inside front cover. I decided to use mail that my boys have received throughout the year as collage material. They participated in a bunch of different mail swaps and I wanted a fun way to document this without it being scrapbook-y. Make sure to come back for more pictures!

I have also started some more altered books and am planning on selling them for doodling, drawing, writing, whatever. They are still in progress and at the experiment stage. I am really pleased with how they are turning out, though. It's great when things work out like you want them to!

Help Portrait

2009-11-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

I just discovered this today while on Twitter and immediately signed up to participate. What a great idea! Anyway I think you should sign up, too, and help someone smile :)

via Help Portrait

Inspiration....

2009-11-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

I have been so inspired lately by what others are doing in the art world. I thought I would share a few of my favorites here:

Spirograph Wedding ( I LOVED spirographs as a kid!) via Design*Sponge

Share Some Candy...seriously this site is LOADED with good stuff.

We Love Indie...this is a site that organizes the best of the best from the world of craft/design/art blogs. FABULOUS.

Bookbinding Etsy Street Team....made me want to get back into making my own books, which I have already started doing :)

Creative Nerds...need I say more?

More giraffes

2009-11-13T11:39:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...another giraffe picture.

Thankful Thursday on Friday

2009-11-13T11:35:00.000-08:00

Oh, "Thankful Thursday." I have not written a "Thankful Thursday" post in such a long, long, long time. I think now is the perfect time to catch up. So:

• I am thankful for my husband

• I am thankful for the two wonderful sons of mine who continually make me laugh.

• I am thankful for the ability to work from home on my art/design, on my own terms and on my own time. Awesome!

How about you? What are you thankful for? I would love to hear from you.

In progress show-and-tell, continued

2009-11-11T16:12:00.001-08:00

So, what do you think? I think I like them, a lot. It was so nice to sit back and design something for ME to use. Sigh. The photos in the background are examples of my work. The fun paint splatters came from art of leo, via vector for free. I am going to have to create some of my own paint splatters soon, since I seem to be using them a lot lately.

Update 11.12.09: I just found this tutorial on how to make splatter brushes in PhotoShop. What perfect timing? via Colorburned

Spreading some link love

2009-11-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I FINALLY got a Twitter account. Holy cow! Twitter is amazing! I found so many great tutorials, posts, links, people, etc. So, I thought I would share some of what caught my eye:

Great business card designs and inspiration (via designrfix)

Portrait Photographers...I LOVE portrait photography (via ReadyPhotoSite blog)

The Part-Time Professional Photographer (via Freelance Switch)

That is the short list of what I have discovered just this morning. I have to get some work done today, so I signed out of Twitter. I am sure I will have some more to post about later today so check back soon!

In progress show-and-tell

2009-11-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

I am working on some new business cards, since I am almost out of the old ones. I found this contest...you should enter, too! If you need a designer, I know one right here ;) Anyway, I decided to use images of places that inspire me...this is Lake Michigan. Beautiful. What do you think? If you enter the contest, I would love to see your work. Please leave a comment with your twit pic link!

PS they are having another contest, too, that I am thinking of entering.

More truth from quotes

2009-11-10T07:48:00.000-08:00

"An idea not coupled with action will never get any bigger than the brain cell it occupied." Glascow

Yup. I am guilty of having LOADS of ideas that never come to fruition. So from now on I am going to keep thinking, generating ideas and then actually doing those ideas. Phew. In order to get started, here is a list of my ideas:

• I would like to make proton packs for the boys for Christmas and write a tutorial about it to share here, if it works. BTW the prototype looks FABULOUS in my head :)

• I am going to start an inspiration box (or something like that) to look at when I am doing my work.

• Write and illustrate a story with my boys, who are always inspiring me.

• Start my own Etsy store and sell my handmade goodies

• Blog more often!

• Brush up on web design and animation stuff, since, truth be told, I am a little rusty.

There. That should keep me busy for awhile! What about you? Do you have an idea that you have never done anything with? I challenge you to do it....just go for it...be brave. You'll surprise yourself. I promise!

Happy Friday

2009-11-06T12:12:00.001-08:00

It's Friday. It has been one heck of a week over here! My boys are going to spend the weekend with Grandma and I am hoping to make up some lost studio time while they are having fun. Hopefully I will have some images to post soon. Have a great weekend!

An Idea

2009-11-05T06:27:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking about turning this photo (and the others I have of these birds) into mixed media drawings. Here is my inspiration:

I love the spontaneous watercolor used on Free People

Heather Smith Jones

Inspiration

2009-11-05T06:24:00.000-08:00

I have always liked this quote. It reminds me to be brave and try something new; to be creative and not worry about the outcome.

Discovery

2009-11-05T06:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was doing some stenciling on fabric. Everything was going great. The prints looked awesome and funky at the same time. But then I noticed that I had smudged a gob of screen printing ink on my fabric. EEEK! Usually when this happens, I try to incorporate it into the design, but that was not an option here. I decided to act fast...I ran and grabbed two washcloths, getting one of them pretty wet. Then, I ran back to the work table and I just blotted the unwanted ink spot with the wet washcloth and then soaked it up with the dry one. It only took a few times repeating this, but it worked! I was using white ink (acrylic) on dark fabric, though, and am curious to see if it would work with dark ink on light fabric. I just might have to experiment with this idea. But, now a damp cloth and a dry cloth are going to be out on the table whenever I print! I would like to believe that I will be careful, but, honestly, I get carried away very easily. And I was singing....so I was a little distracted.

How about you? Do you have any tips/tricks for removing those unwanted ink blobs from fabric?

This is my post today

2009-11-02T12:02:00.000-08:00

The boys have the day off of school today, so I thought I would make a super short and sweet post, complete with grapevine tendrils (do these things really have a name?). We have already had lunch, dug into the Halloween candy stash, made our way to the library and are currently looking for something else to do...well, okay, I am, but they are quietly playing with each other. On that note, I better go see why it is so quiet.....

Opportunites for Artists

2009-11-01T11:22:00.001-08:00

Hi. I thought I would post some opportunities I have found for artists. Here they are, in no particular order:

Participate in Uppercase Magazine

Let's Do Lunch Photo Contest

10 Ways a Designer Can Make Some Extra Money via Creative Overflow

Hey, Hot Shot! this one is currently closed for new entries, but it never hurts to get inspired to enter their new show once it is up.

What about you? Do you have any opportunities you would like to share with your fellow artists? If so, please leave a link in a comment...let's support the artists and help them find new, cool ways to make money and get noticed :)

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween, everyone. I will post some pictures as long as the rain goes away. Rain on Halloween is no fun!

Experimenting

2009-10-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

I think it is good to just experiment with different art mediums every once in awhile. You never know when you may discover a new medium to fall in love with. Plus, I am starting to think that this is the perfect way to start my day off in the studio...experimenting with no goal in mind, no expectations, just time to play, explore, discover and be.

So this is what I have been experimenting with, along with some links that have inspired me:

• Watercolor (check out Heather Smith Jones)

• Block Printing using this technique found via the lovely Jezze (FYI I did not have any felt, so I used an old baby washcloth and it worked beautifully. I suspect flannel would work, too)

• Self-stick foam on peanut butter jar lids (here is a version of this; I cut out my own foam pieces with the technique described in Lena Corwin's "Printing by Hand" book)

I will post pictures once I have finished working. I actually REMEMBERED to take pictures before, during and after. Hooray! Now if I could just find a tutorial on how to take pictures of your art when you have paint on your hands...guess it's time to break out the tripod. Or I could wash my hands or use a washcloth or something.......

Just Because It's Moss

2009-10-28T13:04:00.000-07:00

This picture really has no reason for being here, other than I really like moss. I would like to start a story about little tiny creatures living in this moss....

Some Inspiration

2009-10-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

This is one of my all-time favorite quotes to get me motivated and inspired. I hope you find it motivational and inspirational, too. Do you have a favorite quote? Please leave your favorite in the comment section. I would love to read yours.

Fabulousness

2009-10-27T07:12:00.001-07:00

A whole bucketful of it. On that note, I am signing off. Until later.

Why Freelancing Could Be Bad For Your Hygeine

2009-10-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

See there is an advantage to actually going to work somewhere OTHER THAN your house. You have to get out of your jammies, shower, put on deodorant, brush your teeth, etc., etc., etc. Not that I do not do those things...but I have definitely taken full advantage of working from home. I am just being honest.

But I really think there is something to be said about a daily schedule and about getting ready for the day, "properly." So I have decided that, starting tomorrow, I am going to set my alarm clock for 7:00 am, NOT push snooze, get ready BEFORE the boys need to go to school and then start the day off that way. Eventually I would like to get up earlier and add a workout or a walk with my dog to this list. But let's just start with getting out of bed earlier, shall we? I will let you know how this is working out tomorrow ;)

How about you? What motivates you to start the day and be motivated, inspired, successful and/or creative? I would love to hear from you.

Update: I did not get up as early as I had originally intended, but I did get up earlier than normal, showered and got dressed. That's a start AND it gave me extra studio time, which is what I was really hoping for! Hooray! Hopefully I will keep this up in the days to come.

Project Idea: The Recycle Bin Project

2009-10-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

So I started working again in the studio...love it....but do you ever find yourself stuck for an idea and have the urge to create something? Anything? Enter the recycle bin project. I am sure that I am not the only one out there with this idea, but it sure did work for me! The idea is to grab some glue, brushes, an old book or magazine, paper from the recycle bin, old postcards, whatever, and just create something. Anything! The theory is that this will motivate you once you get lost in the creative process. It did for me! Check back here for some pictures to come. In the mean time here is a tiny round up of what other artists do to get going everyday:

The cardboard stampede with Ann Wood via Design*Sponge

A Collage A Day with Randel Plowman

The Artist's Survival Kit with Keri Smith

Just for fun

2009-10-26T07:16:00.001-07:00

I thought I would give you a conceptual blog post today. Do you know what story I am trying to tell with these three images? Or maybe you have a story all your own about how they are connected? Let me know your story in the comments...and I will tell mine tomorrow :)

Update: My story? Well, the clouds represent me daydreaming...daydreaming about making my art, selling it, opening an Etsy shop, teaching art. Sigh. The cars were my motivation to get to work; the sidewalk paint represents the mess I made on my kitchen table with watercolor paint, glue and screen printing ink because I actually DID some work yesterday :)

A Chance to Win FREE Stuff

2009-10-26T07:11:00.001-07:00

Oh boy, look what the procrastinating artist found this morning:

Free Fabric, via Fabric Fusion

More free art and craft supplies to get your creative juices going, via Totally Tutorials

And this one, just to brighten your day!

Enjoy, my friends, and get going! Make something fabulous and tell me all about it in the comments. I would love to hear from you!

A PhotoShop Tutorial Round-Up

2009-10-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

So, I love editing images in PhotoShop. Since I love it SO much, I decided to post some links to some of my favorite tutorials to get your editing grove on:

PhotoShop Essentials (this site is packed FULL of great stuff)

PhotoShop Support (again, packed FULL o-stuff)

One of my favorite tutorials for smoothing skin, by Steve Weinrebe via double exposure

And from Steve Weinrebe's Mode Studio blog

Enjoy! I would like to know if you have a favorite PhotoShop tutorial or perhaps a site I do not know about yet...which is entirely possible and highly likely. Leave a link in the comments. Thanks!

A Book Giveaway

2009-10-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

Check out this book giveaway that I just discovered here. Now go and leave a comment for your chance to win!

Found via Life As Art

Don't worry, I am still here.

2009-10-20T13:19:00.000-07:00

And to prove it, here is a picture of a giraffe. We have been a bit under the weather over here, but are feeling MUCH better. In the mean time here are some fun links for you to check out and waste a little time looking at:

Make, Grow, Gather....I just found this one and am really digging it.

Obsessive Consumption....I found this one today and am TOTALLY inspired. TOTALLY.

Recession Recipes...I am thinking about hosting a recession potluck.

Have fun browsing and I will be back soon.

It's been too long, again

2009-10-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Boy how life goes by when you are busy. Both ArtPrize and ArtPeers shows are finished and I am now starting to get my personal and freelance life back to normal. I have started to work out a schedule for myself, you know to be "more organized" and all that stuff. We'll see how it works out. So far, I have started planning weekly meals, which I think will be good. No more standing in front of the fridge, staring blankly at its contents and thinking, "can't we just order pizza?"

I also have been busy with my portfolio site! I know! Aren't you proud of me...I FINALLY did it. Please check it out and let me know what you think. I am hoping to add Etsy shop info soon!

The other thing that is still in the works...I am trying to find somewhere to display all of the community created artwork that was done during ArtPrize. I think these are fantastic, since it is a totally different way to document the inaugural event. If you have any suggestions, I would be happy to read them in the comments.

Have a great day and, believe me when I say, that blogging here will be on my daily schedule :)

More on my lily pads

2009-09-24T10:08:00.001-07:00

I thought it would be nice to give you my artist's statement that accompanies this series...the first of many more lily pad prints:

I love the creative process and were it takes you. My Lily Pad series is about how your senses play a role in that creative process and how that process has a voice of its own....often resulting in something that was not originally intended. My original intention was to do five pieces, one for each of the senses. I started working on “sight” first since, to me, it was the easiest one to do. I chose a photograph of lily pads and then found myself remembering Monet’s numerous water lily paintings and wanted to do a modern interpretation of them. Why did I have to do a piece that represented each of the five senses? Why couldn’t I do a piece that implied the use of all five senses in the creative process? I started to run with this idea....

This new idea started with my camera, a walk down to the lake and the inspiration I got from the lily pads. I wanted to fuse modern technology with older, more “traditional” art mediums. I wanted to use that technology to capture the spirit of Monet’s painting technique and the

texture the paint creates. I listened to the sounds around me, studied the lily pads in the water, smelled the clean, lake air and touched the weeds by the shore in order to get that perfect shot of the lily pads.

Once I had the photographs, I started working on my computer. I scanned in some line drawings I had made and a piece of paper that I had dyed and aged. I combined these handmade elements with the digital photograph, collaging them and combining them digitally with some vector graphic paint drips I have, again to pay tribute to Monet and his medium. I then chose to experiment with mounting them. I did not want to hang them in a frame and behind glass. I wanted them to be on canvas, but not printed on canvas. I chose to mount the photograph to canvas, to play with the idea of new and old, painting vs. photograph. It is this idea that I will build upon for the next pieces in this series.

And now, like Monet, I have become smitten by the beauty of lily pads, by the serenity they create and by the environment they invade. And, like Monet, I will continue to visit them, study them and create with them.

The Lily Pad Series

2009-09-21T19:57:00.001-07:00

This is the beginning of my Lily Pad series...I can totally understand why Monet planted these guys in his pond, carefully took care of them for years and then painted them, repeatedly. I am pretty sure that they change daily if not hourly and are so fascinating to watch. In fact, I am going to go see them tomorrow morning, early, with camera in hand and get started on some lily pads in the fall.

These pieces are going to be in the ArtPeers show at the Winchester Pub. I am also showing with Mark Rumsey at this venue. He is showing pieces from his lotus series. Come check it out!

Beautiful

2009-09-16T07:32:00.001-07:00

I love flowers. Don't you?

ArtPeers Venue Update and "the badge"

2009-09-15T08:21:00.001-07:00

Pretty sweet, eh? I feel very official now...better than getting a badge as a girl scout :)

Also, my venue for the ArtPeers show is the Winchester Pub, which I am REALLY excited about. The owners are great people and have graciously offered to display my work for a longer time period as well as more of my artwork! I will definitely keep you updated, here, once I work out all the details.

More show and tell

2009-09-14T11:28:00.001-07:00

Aren't dogs the best? I thought I would give you a little update on what I have been working on for ArtPrize. Make sure to check out my team's blog right here for more info! Oh, yeah, I will have venue information for the ArtPeers show, too. This is so exciting!

Show and tell

2009-09-12T13:14:00.001-07:00

This is one of five images for the ArtPeers show. It's a work in progress so come check out the final pieces!

Procrastination

2009-09-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

That is what I am doing right now. Procrastinating in the form of blogging. Ugh. I have to get five images done tonight before midnight....there's lots of time left, right? No problem. I think I work better under pressure anyway.

The images I am working on are for ArtPeers. All I am going to say is that they use Monet's water lilies and da Vinci's sketchbooks as inspiration and are starting to look pretty cool. Come and see it if you can!

Stimulate

2009-09-10T11:25:00.001-07:00

Go check out the Stimulate blog....it's for the collaborative piece I am in for ArtPrize. Oh, and don't forget to come and see us. And vote for us! The best part about our installation is that its success depends on your involvement!

Good News

2009-09-08T11:37:00.001-07:00

I have good news to share with you.....I am back, in full swing and ready to make art. More details to come, but for now, I will be in ArtPrize (as a collaboration) and ArtPeers! Woot!

Hi, I'm back

2009-08-12T08:10:00.001-07:00

I am sorry that I was gone for such a long time. Summer got the best of me...beach days, road trips, catching fireflies, bonfires, etc. To make up for it, here is a picture of a kitten. We found her when we went to visit Grandpa in Texas. Her name is Smudge, since it looks like she has smudges of dirt on her nose, and she is a Manx. She is very sweet and even eats dog treats.

Well, I have so many plans and ideas and things in store for this blog. So check back often and soon. I am in the middle of organizing my studio and am hoping to post pictures of the process AND my art, too. See you later!

I love moss and art

2009-06-17T16:10:00.001-07:00

This is a back to a business card I designed this week. I really like it and thought I would share it with you.

Time management and the art of saying no

2009-06-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

Wow. What a post title! In fact this is exactly what I am doing right now...learning how to better manage my time and learning how to say no to projects. I know. Wow. The time management thing is still a work in progress. I am trying to do my freelance work at home with both boys home now, which proves to be difficult sometimes. I am hoping to find someone who is willing to do some babysit swapping or something. We'll see.

The art of saying no is a bit trickier....I love to please people and make them happy. But I have to say no to some things, such as pro-bono design work. It absolutely SHOCKS me to the core that people do not and will not pay for good design work. I am not saying that I am the best or anything like that, but good design speaks for itself. There is a reason why people get degrees in this. Sigh.

On that note, I am going to go organize and clean my house. I have been so busy this week with freelance projects (which is a good thing) that the house needs some serious TLC. So please check back often and soon....I will be around here more. I promise!

More about Poladroid

2009-06-09T09:06:00.001-07:00

This is the octopus at John Ball Zoo. Pretty cool. I love Poladroid.

I have been really sick these past few days. I am feeling MUCH better now and am able to join the land of the living and the blogging again.

The Art of De-Cluttering

2009-06-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

I think it is an art.....de-cluttering. So satisfying when it is done but sort of painful during the process. So many decisions to make; to keep or not to keep? That is THE question and that is what I am in the midst of doing right now. Well, okay, I am blogging right now. I have found a few things to keep me going: music playing, keeping my shoes on inside the house and wearing an apron. That apron is sort of like putting on a uniform, of sorts. And with that, I must get back to the art of de-cluttering!

I did think it would be fun to post a few web sites with some tutorial goodness for y'all to keep you busy. I have filed these in my brain and am going to do them with, or without, the boys. Enjoy!

paper mache goodness

spin art using a salad spinner ( I found mine at Goodwill for only $3!)

A new list for a more motivated me

2009-06-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

Here is yet another list, to join the others:

•make some paper mache projects (see this website)

•create some hanging lamps like these here...I am thinking of making them out of paper mache....definitely an experiment (scroll down to the "Beautiful Duo" article)

•make some art daily....I got the idea from this post at Design*Sponge. FYI I also want to make those horses!

•de-clutter the house and decorate it to make it look cool and fun and inviting....this will be an ongoing project.

•back up my hard drive and organize my photos/art so that I can find things easier.

That's all I am saying for now. Better get to work. Enjoy your Monday!

It's me again

2009-05-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

I promise to write here more often, make more art AND take pictures of it so that you can see. But right now, I N-E-E-D to organize my studio (and garden). I am ready to start making things! I can't wait to get started and share with you. Hopefully I can start that Etsy shop, too :) I am planning some tutorials and maybe, just maybe, some kind of a giveaway once I open shop.

Gardening

2009-05-28T09:46:00.000-07:00

I have that gardening urge....I planted a bunch of seeds and would really LOVE it if the weather would cooperate so that I can plant them outside. I think I am going to plant the hardier ones and then save the others for a little while longer. On that note...I am off!

For you

2009-05-19T09:40:00.001-07:00

Distracted

2009-05-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

The weather has been sooooooo nice over here....I get distracted easily by the sunshine. I promise not to let it distract me too much in the near future ;)

To update you, dear reader, I have been updating my resume, organizing my portfolio images, finishing up some pending projects and having fun at Little League games. I am planning to be here more often, but need to do more organizing right now...in the form of backing up my hard drive. Blech. But necessary!

I've been playing

2009-05-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

What do you think of the new header? It is really blurry, for some reason. I just got Adobe Creative Suite 4 on my Mac...and I have been playing and getting acquainted with it. SO far, I am in love. I bet I will come up with another one, since I am not to thrilled with this one.

And now on to the next project

2009-05-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

That project, dear friends, is self promotion. Oi. I really, really, really would love to have a home based art/design business and I think I am finally motivated enough to get serious and start. For real this time. Sorta scary and kinda cool all at the same time. I just feel like I am at a good place in my life to start one. The husband has a good job and I have made some serious extra cash lately...which reminds me to send an invoice out...so here we go. It will be crazy, hectic, stressful and totally, totally worth it.

This is a GREAT idea. Better get to work!

2009-04-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

Check this out over at Angry Chicken. So. Dang. Cute. And. Funny.