tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4428530994686706312024-03-05T09:28:12.919-08:00Art by PhoenixTracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-73361288563728116582017-01-30T12:10:00.000-08:002017-01-30T12:32:58.202-08:00Stop the Muslim and Refugee Bans!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.aclu.org/">ACLU National (Click here to help stop the Muslim and Refugee Bans)</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFaCu6__tdAYY5dJ8tbQ7F_CpGe9ocXGv81OL0ODS2bhR_881L_o-_nJpZG7imIwsHX5Py5-iczzWvB3nyPTlOPpGG0bIh0O2vT3F-I5oqq5I7GSMPYL21ZuPEBOn9uTjk0mOesfZsDKE/s1600/Bound+11+10.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFaCu6__tdAYY5dJ8tbQ7F_CpGe9ocXGv81OL0ODS2bhR_881L_o-_nJpZG7imIwsHX5Py5-iczzWvB3nyPTlOPpGG0bIh0O2vT3F-I5oqq5I7GSMPYL21ZuPEBOn9uTjk0mOesfZsDKE/s320/Bound+11+10.jpeg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Bound" 2011 by Traci Tompins</td></tr>
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Urgent Call to action @ACLU<br />
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<a href="https://www.indivisibleguide.com/resources-2/2017/1/30/your-senator-opposes-the-muslim-ban-so-tell-them-how-to-stop-it">Call your Senators now!</a><br />
Tell them how to stop it.<br />
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And Finally, all who #resist should read this guide, by <a href="https://www.indivisibleguide.com/">Indivisible</a><br />
Real Action, and its working!</div>
Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-78607808869064470942017-01-27T09:45:00.004-08:002017-01-30T12:21:41.967-08:00Let it Begin!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Art, Activism, and Resistance</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDlRiNVdqIh-0hHWOAOUuxBl1jUwe5NgvnYirsfE5Fko6Ev13xsW9QptQabHg2QgdAeWJFui58X2rG-oLcJ0VAPTa11BlTZ8xxtL4eeNv9QvXVGhMtDTriLfAqT49VSnOi8K7UQHdA9s/s1600/Hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDlRiNVdqIh-0hHWOAOUuxBl1jUwe5NgvnYirsfE5Fko6Ev13xsW9QptQabHg2QgdAeWJFui58X2rG-oLcJ0VAPTa11BlTZ8xxtL4eeNv9QvXVGhMtDTriLfAqT49VSnOi8K7UQHdA9s/s320/Hand.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
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Oh yeah, art. I have some projects I'm working on and will post here when I can. Just got a new scanner (thanks Mom and Sis)! </div>
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I know I hoodwinked you into coming to look at art and not my rants, but welcome to the new age. We are all responsible for what is happening in our world. As the Indigo Girls wrote, "if I have a care in the world I have a gift to bring" so let's bring it! (Just quoted you @Indigo_Girls, and will probably do so again). This time the song is "Hammer and a Nail" as in get some and do something!</div>
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Go to <a href="http://countable.org/">Make your voice count!</a> at countable.org, where Reps and Senators read your comments. Call them directly. Let them know how they vote now affects how you vote later.</div>
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#watchpaintdry #resist #aclu. Comment on more causes we can follow. </div>
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Keep Fighting, this is not a time to hide and hope things will get better. They will continue to get much worse.</div>
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I swore, took an oath, and planned to have engraved on my tombstone, that I would never join Twitter. But I want to keep up with #resistance going on, so email me for my handle. I can control trolls here, but not there.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Did Ya Hear?</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.salon.com/2017/01/26/scientists-are-planning-the-next-big-washington-march/#.WIuDKT6IOjB.link">Next Big Washington March may be Scientists</a> Remember those educated people with knowledge of the real truth?</div>
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-63036894465698311492017-01-24T23:16:00.000-08:002017-01-25T16:50:29.433-08:00The ProcessA (very) brief process video of the #watchpaintdry alternative viewing content<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dybpGv9ErapS6f9J8VBPm_vv4s6wtJodlLfHG745xjm4S9fsfmfOpWou_Lo6bGhFdhbE56xkPxU-zM5HTNLNw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BPhIYGaj4w3-auIDllLvin9pf-GQEbIkbm8y1w0/?taken-by=traci_tompkins">Final Artwork for #watchpaintdry, alternative viewing </a><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BPhIYGaj4w3-auIDllLvin9pf-GQEbIkbm8y1w0/?taken-by=traci_tompkins">Zen Tangle over Hate</a> <-------Click Here!<br />
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-47821720925004162292017-01-24T22:58:00.002-08:002017-01-25T16:52:19.548-08:00Rock The Nation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3jl0CSgopCBxJ_mxsLOi0tuV6T3WF_LjYp3HCVa5u8bdpD0xKBuMtfJVfrIWrjqKItoxI69HbkreRycsgx_2VxoH7uW5kvvJbV1BJkhX3bwJlA5fC78yz2qslo91iI3sNrGcL8reego/s1600/GTY-womens-march-washington-4-jt-170121_12x5_1600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3jl0CSgopCBxJ_mxsLOi0tuV6T3WF_LjYp3HCVa5u8bdpD0xKBuMtfJVfrIWrjqKItoxI69HbkreRycsgx_2VxoH7uW5kvvJbV1BJkhX3bwJlA5fC78yz2qslo91iI3sNrGcL8reego/s320/GTY-womens-march-washington-4-jt-170121_12x5_1600.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I marched in the Sister March on Washington January 21, 2017</div>
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Life Changing.</div>
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Woke up to a fresh batch of poison from #45. I closed my Facebook account. Too much hate, too little humanity.</div>
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Now I am acting locally and shouting LOUDLY. Here, where no one may hear. But this is ok.</div>
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RESIST!</div>
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-75478242837238371632017-01-02T21:11:00.002-08:002017-01-02T21:11:49.652-08:00#WatchpaintdryCheck out this hashtag on any social media. #watchpaintdry #__watchpaintdry (two underscores on twitter). Save the world with art!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-66755850209946316322016-12-27T17:27:00.000-08:002016-12-27T17:27:50.410-08:00Five and a Half years later and now I'm 50...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wuLHjweGOrFVpHAvdCd3cGdzpBjO6qWvxRJ91stvbEYzxZSNDCO6c87xDSyDxlFGKgGXzm0yFyL1omGhOKBETzzj8s8nCPlqBlypzNw0vtLrwp6NPzaSqXhNKBWU4bn_3VONU5vEgFo/s1600/another+profile+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wuLHjweGOrFVpHAvdCd3cGdzpBjO6qWvxRJ91stvbEYzxZSNDCO6c87xDSyDxlFGKgGXzm0yFyL1omGhOKBETzzj8s8nCPlqBlypzNw0vtLrwp6NPzaSqXhNKBWU4bn_3VONU5vEgFo/s320/another+profile+2016.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>
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The events of the past years have made me cranky, grateful, humble, and so very sarcastic. I have been in the shadows, I have been quiet, I have been broken, and I have been loved. Now its time to dust off that thing called "art" and take her out for a spin. I am not sure how this is going to go, except I'm pretty sure I'm starting off with zentangles. I will also be shamelessly displaying the artwork of my 11 year old daughter who draws hands better than I do and I have been failing at it a lot longer!</div>
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Watch this space.</div>
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-88588628159393305022012-04-28T14:43:00.000-07:002012-04-29T11:13:05.177-07:00Interview with Jocelyn Rossiter of soulbrushart<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-NAsF3PswXRqKjXWvZkWJswUvFzaJnhbTtBIWaqaF15AF7JFaSBxwwEE14S8bJS2ofNzaI-uKVy0cvzFV914l-fObBr1rZUZ1CKNocyRUPn_0FI5nteqrUDuSV6v_GGYW8YDWm3PeqI/s1600/Joss+artist1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-NAsF3PswXRqKjXWvZkWJswUvFzaJnhbTtBIWaqaF15AF7JFaSBxwwEE14S8bJS2ofNzaI-uKVy0cvzFV914l-fObBr1rZUZ1CKNocyRUPn_0FI5nteqrUDuSV6v_GGYW8YDWm3PeqI/s320/Joss+artist1.jpg" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joss Rossiter</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=442853099468670631" name="lw_1335647144_3"></a>I met
Jocelyn Rossiter through ATCs for All (<a href="http://atcsforall.com/" target="_blank">atcsforall.com</a>),
an artist trading card site. We have done personal trades, been in
swaps together, and she has been in a couple of my swaps. I have
noticed in the year and a half that I've had the pleasure of knowing
Joss that her style has just become stronger and deeper, and I've
been blown away by the art she is creating. I know she has recently
had local success in showing her art, as well as success in selling
her work on line. I wanted to interview Joss not only as a way to
help promote her and her artwork, but also to pick her brain about
how she creates such brilliant pieces. I often talk here about how I
struggle with finding a creative style, so I want to talk to Joss
about how she developed hers.</div>
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<b>Where do you live? Tell us a
little about yourself.</b>
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I live in London now, but was born and
grew up in South Africa, during the difficult Apartheid years. We
emigrated to England in 1986 due to the political unrest, and to this
day, my heart remains in Africa! I think African women (particularly
the rural people) are just amazing. Their fortitude and perseverance
in the most dire of circumstances is truly admirable.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8k6f-TjIjei9LZfNPyaaclAyg5p5hw1DB5Pdn9Ci5JDHpXiHLS7hfxhgEDil_Rxpdkz9T-YG2A5xcBY0PhrGaxPixWM18ulbNDx8AFRnMYQxmjcu-Cau8cur0NEUx38jAQQK6VzesfAs/s1600/sisters+in+the+sun+Aimee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8k6f-TjIjei9LZfNPyaaclAyg5p5hw1DB5Pdn9Ci5JDHpXiHLS7hfxhgEDil_Rxpdkz9T-YG2A5xcBY0PhrGaxPixWM18ulbNDx8AFRnMYQxmjcu-Cau8cur0NEUx38jAQQK6VzesfAs/s320/sisters+in+the+sun+Aimee.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sisters in the Sun</td></tr>
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<b>How did you become interested
in art? </b>
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I always loved art, but couldn't draw a
straight line a s a child. In fact I was told more than once that I
was not artistic at all. I was fat, wore glasses, and very unhappy
child. So I began to believe that I was completely useless, and my
confidence was smashed on a daily basis.</div>
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After having a spinal operation in 2003
(I slipped my disc and was told I may never walk again after the
surgery), I was recuperating slowly, but finding it difficult to
stand or sit for long periods of time. My eldest son (who is very
artistic himself), brought me some paintbrushes and an easel and
acrylics and said, 'Draw, play around, it will help your recovery',
and I just smiled wryly.</div>
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I felt sure that nothing could help the
depression that had descended on my shoulders, but I played around
with the paints anyway, and it was fun. Every time I stood before the
easel and dabbled with the wonderful colours, I forgot the pain. I
often look at these pieces and giggle. They were awful!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifc7tomz62h3RnbFibcMWTQu0qJA6De0UrN7AHQQDRH-FG7Imp8_YRFMDLZQ8gyiMGxngqpKWqYnCDICj6-Nw2RwVj1zzeyBYaSrOAm49dJK-_IxX-PSRtTDpqAWDe563XkLLbqrIXPFs/s1600/Dancing+in+the+Moonlight+Cathy+-+Cee-emm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifc7tomz62h3RnbFibcMWTQu0qJA6De0UrN7AHQQDRH-FG7Imp8_YRFMDLZQ8gyiMGxngqpKWqYnCDICj6-Nw2RwVj1zzeyBYaSrOAm49dJK-_IxX-PSRtTDpqAWDe563XkLLbqrIXPFs/s320/Dancing+in+the+Moonlight+Cathy+-+Cee-emm.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing in the Moonlight</td></tr>
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<b>Are you self taught or formally
trained (or both)?</b></div>
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In 2006, we moved to a new house and
there was a Learning Centre nearby offering introductory Art lessons,
which I attended for 3 months, then went back to work full time
(fully recovered from my back surgery and other ensuing surgeries
that followed). We drew with pencils, charcoal and inks, then went on
to using watercolours, and eventually acrylics. I loved the lessons,
and was sorry that I couldn't continue. But none of the styles really
'spoke' to me.</div>
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After a few years, I met up with this
same Art teacher and decided to join another woman at her home, doing
lessons, which I did for the next year. Again, we dabbled in lots of
different media, and I found myself drawn to faces, and gradually to
African faces in particular. After the lessons, I would go home and
interpret what I had learnt into something with an African style.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNFgr1OtcG94nBzM8CouRtoEubsNYTJ6q9QAaDIIq7-XEQDOsGHK2DEtF1UAkrGcFTMFi96ezSvcQuKC8uDjgBe5Aa_5CmOJfxj9hczBZoVoR453WQz_aXxDKYptfdOphYX9Yocp2-Bk/s1600/Serenity+Steven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNFgr1OtcG94nBzM8CouRtoEubsNYTJ6q9QAaDIIq7-XEQDOsGHK2DEtF1UAkrGcFTMFi96ezSvcQuKC8uDjgBe5Aa_5CmOJfxj9hczBZoVoR453WQz_aXxDKYptfdOphYX9Yocp2-Bk/s320/Serenity+Steven.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serenity Steven</td></tr>
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<b>What inspires you to start a
piece?</b></div>
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An image, a face, a part of a painting,
a picture, an idea in the middle of the night, something I see.</div>
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<b>What media do you use, and what
is your favorite?</b></div>
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I enjoy lost of different things. I use
acrylics, watercolours, gouache, inks, sharpies and other markers. I
also dabble in collage- but I like to mix my collage in with my
painting.
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<b>What themes interest you most?</b></div>
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I find that faces and the human form,
particularly with an emotional content always attract me. And of
course all African art, masks, statues, dolls, tribal art, family
art, faces etc (not landscapes- I am really not a landscape person.)</div>
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<b>How would you say your style
has developed over the years?</b></div>
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In leaps and bounds, from hardly being
able to draw, to trying out all sorts of styles and media- flowers,
still life, abstract- to eventually discovering my absolute love of
all things 'African'. My style has been called 'raw and primitive'
and I love that- it's a compliment.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr5bsDetl4fYtu49CRYzcNPfIkj3HuyZE04AG748LWaIqpvevJi4nDBN0lA0_9fn8ClF1mNwI14FYGO_GuqSN9lXqb040nmlxi-5eSxiTn6MxXSsxEP6R0MpI-uO2Jp-RhSuNSrprPbbs/s1600/Mother%2527s+love4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr5bsDetl4fYtu49CRYzcNPfIkj3HuyZE04AG748LWaIqpvevJi4nDBN0lA0_9fn8ClF1mNwI14FYGO_GuqSN9lXqb040nmlxi-5eSxiTn6MxXSsxEP6R0MpI-uO2Jp-RhSuNSrprPbbs/s320/Mother%2527s+love4.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother's Love</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Tell us about your recent local
success in showing your artwork.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I was walking past a coffee shop in
London a month ago and saw an advert in the window asking local
Artists to bring their art in to possibly have it displayed in the
shop. I rang the owner, sent him an email with my art, and he wrote
back immediately saying he loved it and would like to display/hang it
in his cafe. I am so excited and am delivering it to him today. It is
such a proud and emotionally overwhelming day for me.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Is there anything else you'd
like to share?</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Yes. I am a teacher (part time now) and
I always tell my students that they should keep trying, to endeavour
to achieve their dreams and never give up. If I had listened to those
people who told me I was useless at art, I wouldn't be here. If I had
not taken the challenge my son gave me I wouldn't be here, and if I
had not taken the risk to show my art on Etsy, so swap it with other
wonderful artists round the world, I would not be here.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So keep on keeping on! Always try and
try and try and never give up your dreams! It doesn't matter how old
you are (I am 64), you are never to old to have fun, to start
something new and even have people all over the world buy your art.
(I have now sold 28 pieces of art on Etsy, to America, South Africa,
Australia, Canada and Malaysia).</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Check out more of Joss' art and get in touch with her!<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Etsy: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/soulbrushart" target="_blank">www.etsy.com/shop/soulbrushart</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Blog: <a href="http://www.soulbrush.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">www.soulbrush.blogspot.com</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=722811018&ref=ts#%21/profile.php?id=722811018">http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=722811018&ref=ts#!/profile.php?id=722811018</a> </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
email: jossross@yahoo.com</div>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-4994650761463168222012-03-25T12:59:00.000-07:002012-03-25T12:59:29.825-07:00Selling my artThese three piece are for sale at my Etsy shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/artbyphoenix1">http://www.etsy.com/shop/artbyphoenix1</a><br />
They are 2.5 x 3.5 artist card originals. Check them out, they are only 5 bucks each!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3A4VoGTHPwscTZETDGo6XpPzdqvy64wUIjuh4WdkZkKnraia6k7lEEG1Y_sdVPZXNZEvaoaABX73UUsalymr05ULITHUATGeYhW7F9NkdJlh39hKN_mvfSfWr8d9Tm3qfVEcjO8HDpLM/s1600/April+Contest+Blue+and+Purple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3A4VoGTHPwscTZETDGo6XpPzdqvy64wUIjuh4WdkZkKnraia6k7lEEG1Y_sdVPZXNZEvaoaABX73UUsalymr05ULITHUATGeYhW7F9NkdJlh39hKN_mvfSfWr8d9Tm3qfVEcjO8HDpLM/s320/April+Contest+Blue+and+Purple.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tbw8Rpm0znUTavDzpqRpbnugcgcBqrr0T7tX7gudbIcN3ThsUsWx1cOuqplY_wS_2e26uuVTq91Z_p4VOC0Li5mZLUHP8YP39HaEceUwLd8Xul4TW-q051j9-1Fu4oEnYsQ8lcGFdZA/s1600/Black+and+White.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tbw8Rpm0znUTavDzpqRpbnugcgcBqrr0T7tX7gudbIcN3ThsUsWx1cOuqplY_wS_2e26uuVTq91Z_p4VOC0Li5mZLUHP8YP39HaEceUwLd8Xul4TW-q051j9-1Fu4oEnYsQ8lcGFdZA/s320/Black+and+White.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-48370481335202285832012-03-21T10:33:00.000-07:002012-03-21T10:33:53.268-07:00AFA Etsy Treasury Created!I started a treasury group at Etsy that contains art from people that are also members of AtcsForAll. Come take a look at some of the Art Phoenix Loves! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTgxNTgxMjF8MjUwMjYwMjU5NQ/art-that-phoenix-loves" target="_blank">http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTgxNTgxMjF8MjUwMjYwMjU5NQ/art-that-phoenix-loves</a>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-80909808905613591872012-03-10T12:52:00.000-08:002012-03-10T12:52:08.895-08:00Still Drawing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9VEm9W7nQTwjX9fMksNLuc7bRK-UH-oNLergYJMmyaHPcZr3kB0xvUtgQU_JwH-PbMBW8NAsbieaOA3-J1s8zNrxkwNikeWzwhvObLZlzxxoQsLy2Sc6ypiGka150TxdfJYy56qBaxc/s1600/German+shorthair+pointer+hunting+for+debs913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9VEm9W7nQTwjX9fMksNLuc7bRK-UH-oNLergYJMmyaHPcZr3kB0xvUtgQU_JwH-PbMBW8NAsbieaOA3-J1s8zNrxkwNikeWzwhvObLZlzxxoQsLy2Sc6ypiGka150TxdfJYy56qBaxc/s320/German+shorthair+pointer+hunting+for+debs913.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I have found that drawing, simply the act of recreating something on the page, or on an ATC, is important for me. I have been doing it every day, even if it is just a sketch. I think this is the only way to get better at it.<br />
<br />
This dog picture, well, I don't hate it! I used a reference photo and actually got the proportions relatively right!<br />
<br />
I'm still having problems coming up with backgrounds, though, as you can see. I get a drawing the way I want it, get it colored, and then get stuck about what to put behind or around it. It's a real challenge for me and I've not yet figured out how to approach it.<br />
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-53035322842766259152012-01-22T15:12:00.000-08:002012-01-22T15:12:29.715-08:00ArtTrader Magazine Workshop Plug<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpRV3awE49uD8pAnRIc5Ccon0LGvcpiUBDy9sXiNtHN-QAWxP-isnk2HkzZ_z4oNNJBY-YxEuxEa3eetsSCICZKwSRqbkg_K7aUKTOrxIZ-6CbrylWfPqxb0WNYb1FYQT_R2pY4Q1Wak/s1600/Fantastic+Faces+Robot+Girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpRV3awE49uD8pAnRIc5Ccon0LGvcpiUBDy9sXiNtHN-QAWxP-isnk2HkzZ_z4oNNJBY-YxEuxEa3eetsSCICZKwSRqbkg_K7aUKTOrxIZ-6CbrylWfPqxb0WNYb1FYQT_R2pY4Q1Wak/s320/Fantastic+Faces+Robot+Girl.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
This robot girl was created from watching a video by Andrea Melione from the Fantastic Faces online workshop through ArtTrader magazine. I cannot say enough about the quality of workshops through the mag, the website, and the personal feedback and support provided.<br />
<br />
I'm having major problems with inspiration; my muse is blowing in the wind that is howling outside, I guess. Yet since I signed up for the workshop, I can pop online, watch a video, follow along, try new things, keep my critic at bay, and learn.<br />
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While I definitely didn't think I did a good job, this card has received some positive comments at Atcs For All, so even in this slump of mine I feel like I'm still creating.<br />
<br />
Thank you Andrea and ArtTrader Mag!!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-36839191281984172682012-01-14T14:24:00.000-08:002012-01-14T14:24:21.615-08:00Art as therapy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZAq0XhpPoeKUDhea6klqkpIzrIfU_Vo9bTdaR63ilPnuwSLEoqyh51_gQxce50CIolt2hrTEuGKKO0yuqsc5ynbbU6clhhlhbSDV2iMGcRlerzoc3WL93vnbG_pVsYlAQiDFEE9R9ZQ/s1600/Page+1+Goddess+Powers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZAq0XhpPoeKUDhea6klqkpIzrIfU_Vo9bTdaR63ilPnuwSLEoqyh51_gQxce50CIolt2hrTEuGKKO0yuqsc5ynbbU6clhhlhbSDV2iMGcRlerzoc3WL93vnbG_pVsYlAQiDFEE9R9ZQ/s320/Page+1+Goddess+Powers.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>Yes, we've all heard it before, but art really is therapy. With everything I've been going through lately, all the little and big stresses, I find if I have a project (or 2 or 3) going and within visual range, I'll sit down and work on it for a while and not only get out of my bad head space, but get a little art done, for better or worse.<br />
<br />
I'm quite committed to getting better at my art, and want to qualify to join Illustrated ATC's at some point, but just the fact that art is part of my daily (and sometime hourly, if I had my way!) life is a gift. I always wanted to be the person with a small pad and pencil in my purse in case I had to wait somewhere and draw instead of read or fret. Now I am. Yay!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-70179054943021773772012-01-09T17:38:00.000-08:002012-01-09T17:38:51.302-08:00101 Faces and practice practice practice!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgl4r5hZYOlFRhEfQvADd787DPVftNhV4aDMiUYXurNaFm5hHWyKinPlJelHf-KfqeTui_e_AUjDBxdTSA8vwx5CNhTt04eiKEOHjync1l0FrGlRETipVQpzWtxmOmK_3uD3UrGiBOiZA/s1600/Faces+101+Colored+pencil+portrait+sketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgl4r5hZYOlFRhEfQvADd787DPVftNhV4aDMiUYXurNaFm5hHWyKinPlJelHf-KfqeTui_e_AUjDBxdTSA8vwx5CNhTt04eiKEOHjync1l0FrGlRETipVQpzWtxmOmK_3uD3UrGiBOiZA/s320/Faces+101+Colored+pencil+portrait+sketch.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>Carla Sonheim's "Faces 101" class wrapped up last Friday, though I'm still finishing my 101 faces. Yep, that's what the class was, 101 faces! While the class was not about specific methods for drawing faces, she challenged us to use various media and techniques to draw many faces, all with no erasing (except for the exercise where that's all you could use was an eraser...oops, spoiler alert!).<br />
<br />
I learned the true meaning of practice when it comes to my drawing in this class. For instance, the piece here is one of 10 drawings done with colored pencil, no erasing, from the same photograph. I learned that to get better at drawing is not only about new techniques and ways of drawing the components of things (though that it useful), it is important to draw the same thing over and over and over again until you get closer to the image you want. I was missing that part of my growth in drawing. Thank you, Carla, once again!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-67842608876198212822011-12-14T09:36:00.000-08:002011-12-14T09:38:28.686-08:00A New Face<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzV1PjU93JEtOkc0vdEAyJUp4E04k18Kfm2Mf-Wz3AGNtLBCVPY4r5SCjChxCMKHPUd5rqMp9Z6C0QzB2SS2PkfgabjdLvMUIDY7s47O7tC1kaI1xZG5PWJQX12qpJZOFbF4A6JedEj4/s1600/They+say+its+your+Birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzV1PjU93JEtOkc0vdEAyJUp4E04k18Kfm2Mf-Wz3AGNtLBCVPY4r5SCjChxCMKHPUd5rqMp9Z6C0QzB2SS2PkfgabjdLvMUIDY7s47O7tC1kaI1xZG5PWJQX12qpJZOFbF4A6JedEj4/s320/They+say+its+your+Birthday.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>I'm so lucky to have an online community to make me feel special on my birthday. This year is an interesting one for me. I think today makes me officially "middle aged" but I don't feel like that. In some ways I feel my life is just starting.<br />
<br />
Someone asked me recently what I do for fun. I have problems with depression so this gets asked regularly to see how I'm doing. Now I respond quickly and say "Art". No hesitation. It is what I do when I get restless, feel sad, don't know what to do with myself (as well, of course, when I feel inspired and happy). Its what I do, all the time if I can, even if its just a few strokes on a piece or coloring a bit of something.<br />
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I'm reading a book that has to do with menopause, which I am not quite at yet. However, the book focuses more on the power a woman gains/regains/discovers at midlife that fuels her passion. I certainly feel changed and hope that this art habit continues, as my learning does.<br />
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Guess what is new? Maybe this seems like nothing to seasoned artists, but last night, for the first time, I drew 3 pieces without reference pictures. I usually at least get the basics off of a photo or pic, but last night I was working on the "Girl Power" swap cards, and drew faces all by myself. And they are pretty good, in proportion, etc.<br />
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I credit Andrea Melione for this, and what I've learned so far in the "Fantastic Faces" workshop. Her methods of drawing faces and what I've learned before are different, but my brain melded the two and voila, I had a face. I also am no longer afraid to color in skin anymore, which used to be a battle. Shading with pencils, no problem, but adding color? I'd try to fudge that. Now I get in there with my colored pencils and its fun and I think it looks better.<br />
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Thank you everyone for your support over this year. I hope to continue to grow as an artist and a person in the coming year. And wish that for all of you this holiday season!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-60018575949422331512011-12-11T13:10:00.000-08:002011-12-11T13:10:15.287-08:00Why do people like this card?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDAESXdBJAXq8lXqLNK0ex2uOeIyqRUzmuGjC3-5-Q98lo69_PavOntUSgks6HmTCx2Cl1PlRdtLgHFIx5bfFu2-skb49H8QB0cIQsiAp4LOoAuf-U7T6ESks_1lWvuJOaGpupNj-SxoQ/s1600/Fantastic+Faces+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDAESXdBJAXq8lXqLNK0ex2uOeIyqRUzmuGjC3-5-Q98lo69_PavOntUSgks6HmTCx2Cl1PlRdtLgHFIx5bfFu2-skb49H8QB0cIQsiAp4LOoAuf-U7T6ESks_1lWvuJOaGpupNj-SxoQ/s320/Fantastic+Faces+4.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>This is an exercise for the Fantastic Faces workshop I'm taking at ArtTrader magazine. I posted it at ATCsForAll, and people seemed to really like it. I'm surprised, because I almost didn't post it for trade. I uploaded it to my flickr account where, Andrea, the teacher of the workshop, could look over my exercises and give me feedback. But I decided what they hey, and uploaded it.<br />
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Why the interest? I think maybe because there is a story here (you insert story...I have mine, but art is subjective), and some heart, and maybe, just maybe a part (or parts?) of myself in it.<br />
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I don't think the technique is good at all. I'm just practicing. But response to this piece has made me step away from the technique and focus on coloring, contrast, etc., all the things I'm learning in Andrea's workshop. Plus I'm getting pretty mean with the colored pencils, and I love it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9R1uaWMlDcH4o76h-mhC02PJv6KNjYWdUbY580EAvJXJyODF6aIziVIHPexmhap7YldJyCcGsIIJK_D8pB5Jmr9181UMXg7ZkShGc1oxfb7K417RYRKP1sxERE4glR4A-8HTF6-rNuic/s1600/Sun+Dreaming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9R1uaWMlDcH4o76h-mhC02PJv6KNjYWdUbY580EAvJXJyODF6aIziVIHPexmhap7YldJyCcGsIIJK_D8pB5Jmr9181UMXg7ZkShGc1oxfb7K417RYRKP1sxERE4glR4A-8HTF6-rNuic/s320/Sun+Dreaming.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>Here is a piece that is more me, I think. But I don't think I let go enough with it. I had a strong idea of what I wanted to convey with it, but had some trouble letting myself go wild with color experimentation. I think I may have got the contrast right, or closer, in any case, and I'm not un-pleased with color choice...but I think I could have pushed this farther.<br />
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And of course I leave it up to you, dear and few readers, to tell me what you think. I'm enjoying this process and feel like I'm learning a mile a minute. I'm still on my quest to meld technique and soul...hope I'm getting closer.<br />
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Oh, and take a workshop with Andrea Melione at ArtTrader Magazine. Soon.Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-16468524946205612512011-12-04T17:03:00.000-08:002011-12-04T17:03:02.734-08:00Wonderful Feedback<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0YaJjLi6crBzBEcI9hABmmdM2HzXIRNDeEjp80U4KYtC67-cAZTX3Ev6rhzSDjvyndZc3CzVmQ9tpqUHCMDoF3Dt9qPRpw3cw2TK9sDnAH0wOLrA6B60yqywKZGMfvDc1-FN5rWKsMk/s1600/Solstice+Sunrise+for+rogalaca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0YaJjLi6crBzBEcI9hABmmdM2HzXIRNDeEjp80U4KYtC67-cAZTX3Ev6rhzSDjvyndZc3CzVmQ9tpqUHCMDoF3Dt9qPRpw3cw2TK9sDnAH0wOLrA6B60yqywKZGMfvDc1-FN5rWKsMk/s320/Solstice+Sunrise+for+rogalaca.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>I just received some awesome feedback about my art. Not so much about the quality, but about the direction I need to go in to improve the overall piece. Much of it was stuff I already knew, but this wonderful person also gave me very specific help/links/etc. that will aide me in improving my pieces.<br />
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On the one hand I want to have fun with art, and I will not stop that. It is therapeutic for me to play, and if the finished product turns out to be something that people want to look at, trade for, even *gasp* own, then more's the better.<br />
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I also want to improve and grow in my art skill set as well as let out my creative beast. I think I need to revisit painting, as this is where I learned (in the past) the most about color, contrast, and technique. I'm also going to explore some online technique sites on colored pencils and markers.<br />
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In addition, I'm taking the Fantastic Faces workshop over at ArtTrader magazine, as well as I'm signed up for Carla Sondheim's online course "Faces 101". I look forward to both opportunities to work on technique and color. And I highly recommend any workshop from both of these sources! Check out my links and blog list to find ArtTrader and C. Sondheims workshops.<br />
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One thing I really need to work on is backgrounds. They are my bane! I always set out and draw my main subject and then go, "oh, crap, what should I put behind it?". Any ideas? Suggestions? Links?Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-84308075234808826902011-12-02T16:38:00.000-08:002011-12-02T16:38:47.451-08:00Still alive and kicking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1AfcvpQCm7yO1zvOIR1uHeDraLmRkJOdfXYh0ipOkplN7nWvBYytZU8M1kqRQ84P6gb4pkMvpjmSXqqPTGxgZzcAoyZi6nyHenV2e73dlxxZVPWUKxP0IlxYgRL2D7hBCDg43pwQwdYk/s1600/Tabby+cat+for+shawnicaitlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1AfcvpQCm7yO1zvOIR1uHeDraLmRkJOdfXYh0ipOkplN7nWvBYytZU8M1kqRQ84P6gb4pkMvpjmSXqqPTGxgZzcAoyZi6nyHenV2e73dlxxZVPWUKxP0IlxYgRL2D7hBCDg43pwQwdYk/s320/Tabby+cat+for+shawnicaitlin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Hey folks. It's been so long since I've posted! Mostly that has been due to undiagnosed pain that started in July. I've only just found out that I have a liver problem, and the swelling is what is causing the pain. Happy news to finally know, but I haven't seen the specialist yet to find out how to get the swelling down.<br />
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I've been keeping on keepin' on, but its been very hard. Depression set in about a month ago. I have to say that it is a good thing I'm involved with ATCs for All, because my connections there helped me feel less isolated and also helped me continue to do art even when I really didn't feel like it. Most people there have been so understanding and awesome, both in support of me and this process, as well as patient about art that I owe them that has been late.<br />
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After I went to the Oregon Live Gathering, I was extremely humbled by the awesome artwork and creativity of those I was fortunate enough to meet. I came home a tad insecure about my art. I decided to return, for now, to what I know how to do and have done fairly well for many years, which is drawing. I've been going back over all the basics (even though I've been doing it for over 30 years now and have taken too many classes to mention), and focus on what I have felt good about in the past. I'm continuing to practice.<br />
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But here is my question. From what I am seeing in the art world, skill in drawing is not all one need's. One also needs to turn a realistic looking piece into something new and interesting. I've talked about not having a creative style and I think that is what I'm talking about here. I want to turn my artwork into illustrations, but I'm not there yet. Talent in drawing does not seem to add up to good pieces of art, I guess is what I'm trying to say. I have more to learn about design, color, and other elements, as well as find a way to let my inner creativity and passion flow into my pieces.<br />
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Anyway, this is my current dilemma. I'm going to keep on keepin' on, though, I'm not gonna quit...swollen liver or not!<br />
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Be well, all!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-57125021370623510392011-05-28T15:57:00.000-07:002011-05-28T15:57:07.738-07:00Creative Process Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRFawcB9Hd29R6ygwbF23PAAyEm29dWMVFHbn3oqO-uPh8w_GtIB9OGthj5zRsryToT9rtYoQI09yGAEilTGjRlTBieFvQFXX7Oio6-5wpGwIq8utDLUBhaocRbq4YyQUpiajeoMGh8A/s1600/April+Contest+Blue+and+Purple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRFawcB9Hd29R6ygwbF23PAAyEm29dWMVFHbn3oqO-uPh8w_GtIB9OGthj5zRsryToT9rtYoQI09yGAEilTGjRlTBieFvQFXX7Oio6-5wpGwIq8utDLUBhaocRbq4YyQUpiajeoMGh8A/s320/April+Contest+Blue+and+Purple.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>I won the monthly ATC challenge for April over at Atcsforall.com. I think much of what I say below has to do with that! <br />
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Taking the Creative Style class though Art Journal magazine was the best thing I could have done at this time in my art career.<br />
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I want to share with you my process, and also gain feedback as that is so important. <br />
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First, I was supposed to answer some questions about what art meant to me, and what I considered good about my art. How do I want the viewer to feel? Are there already any running themes in my work? What do I want to convey?<br />
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My first pages of my creative journal are a mess, but for a good reason! I started answering the questions and I found that I considered my art good if it was realistic...that's a lot of pressure. And I also had a hard time getting to the core of what I wanted the viewer to feel, my own themes and motifs, and how artistic experience feels to me.<br />
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I got almost angry with myself, or what I had written, hitting that boring old wall again. So I started scribbling everything out, got my red marker out and wrote:<br />
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"I want my artwork to feel and show freedom and play! It has to be URGENT when coming out onto the page. I want my work to be fairly realistic, yet vibrant, eye catching, organic, and emerging. Stop thinking of the goal, let the work *become*. When doing art I want to feel enganged, energized, and pleasure. [sorry if this offends anyone, just don't read the next sentence] Art is orgasmic...it is my art-gasm.<br />
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Dynamic energy should be at the very center of my work, not the urge to prove myself as able to draw well. Combine realism with flow. Magic, heart, and repetitive patterns (like zentangles) that fill space with beauty and detail. I want to study Whimsy Art, Folk Art, and am drawn to Art Nouveau images, with its flowing lines."<br />
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Oh ya, I got going! Next time I have a bit of time I'll write in some more ramblings that are very important to my direction. The above still seems a bit nebulous, but I think I'm getting there.<br />
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Part of the lessons have been to ask others to look at my work and see if they see themes, motifs, etc., to get an outside perspective. My family and friends say, "Oh, very nice!" but I want more! Anyone want to weigh in with the good, the bad, and the ugly?<br />
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My 365 gallery has most of what I've been working on since March of this year. Drop me a comment or a line and tell me what you think?<br />
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There is so much more to come....Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-44141964242399952932011-04-13T00:52:00.000-07:002011-04-13T00:52:21.028-07:00Art Journal DiscoveryI've been doing the workshop on personal artistic style and am learning a lot. I want to share it all but it is late, and I want to record my step by step process here. So this post is a bit of a tease until I have a bit more time.<br />
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I joined an art journal class, and a social group for art-journalers at AFA, both of which are painless ways to get started. Being a mental health counselor, I want to at art therapy to my work with people, and I now have direct experience with the ways in which art can heal. Getting past my blocks with art journaling is instrumental in incorporating art into my counseling work. I found that with my Master's in counseling, all I need is a couple of classes to be certified as an art therapist, which would bring my first career in line with my passion. I still want to take art classes and get as good as I can become at my art (and may even get my digital arts certificate), but this will be a very fulfilling way to bring art to others and fulfill my goal of helping others heal.<br />
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Long story short, you can find my first uncensored journal page on the page link above, "Art Journal Pages". I will be back soon to tell you what I'm learning about myself and my art in my style class, and get feedback, I hope, as to what you all think!<br />
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Peace to all!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-685933010743155042011-03-11T14:23:00.000-08:002011-03-11T14:23:39.141-08:00My Artistic/Creative Style???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TEXrrhIr-9SqmhZ56xkR_Z1_pem101i2S_NgVQ0xZSnLl34jKN2vB751FupXcD28nJsGDFqmHSeeo_EY_s5UC1U-W4Uh607lEmQCNKBbWLXege841tXMDcPmrkvTPF5yqN4EOl2vxo4/s1600/Irises+for+Faith+and+Hope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TEXrrhIr-9SqmhZ56xkR_Z1_pem101i2S_NgVQ0xZSnLl34jKN2vB751FupXcD28nJsGDFqmHSeeo_EY_s5UC1U-W4Uh607lEmQCNKBbWLXege841tXMDcPmrkvTPF5yqN4EOl2vxo4/s320/Irises+for+Faith+and+Hope.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>OK, so far I'm learning about creative style, which in my mind is the heart of art. I can draw, to me its almost a technical skill. But now I want to learn how to create. I'm starting to understand what the flow of art looks like, as I talked about with whimsical art and zentangling, and now even some experiments with spilling paint and free form collage. I've dabbled in a lot of different media, liking each one for different reasons. But I'm still having a hard time pulling it all together.<br />
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I know this all sounds like basic stuff to experienced artists, and those that have always been drawn to create and have done so. I've been drawn to create with no real outlet. Like I said, I can draw, but where is the heart?<br />
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Anyway, here are a couple of pieces I'm happy with, but they kind of prove my point. There is some value in being able to, for instance, recreate flowers, but where is the movement and flow. This is my current quest!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfIi8J4zWAS-1VXReZQtSYbhnEXbb3fGB-hARV9jFMNnHq_nWrTkm_s0agsyFT0DagWU8Kb8G8F1lcH5ErgwWt2MPXNKGik2_plQCxgpQJUMFzoa2VOgOL5nI6NUtj_jnkp4lo-zXUG4/s1600/Dogwood+for+Regeneration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfIi8J4zWAS-1VXReZQtSYbhnEXbb3fGB-hARV9jFMNnHq_nWrTkm_s0agsyFT0DagWU8Kb8G8F1lcH5ErgwWt2MPXNKGik2_plQCxgpQJUMFzoa2VOgOL5nI6NUtj_jnkp4lo-zXUG4/s320/Dogwood+for+Regeneration.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-26437470026417573762011-03-05T17:50:00.000-08:002011-03-05T17:51:59.862-08:00Whimsical art and drawing in general<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsCUceq9irFN3bC30vpEUKOjB-2FGV4a3JZmVHsqFDE54eT5qOc6N-pbc86ZXVZD9ImbAvzptKe7gHNh8Oj9X-3Qh5Kh8sIgBHPGTeqTvgFeXO1hD9XBfCteQ4-4Nx1IeJBtUOvnaDOM/s1600/Model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsCUceq9irFN3bC30vpEUKOjB-2FGV4a3JZmVHsqFDE54eT5qOc6N-pbc86ZXVZD9ImbAvzptKe7gHNh8Oj9X-3Qh5Kh8sIgBHPGTeqTvgFeXO1hD9XBfCteQ4-4Nx1IeJBtUOvnaDOM/s320/Model.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>I had the opportunity to try out whimsical art during the Draw-a-Thon this weekend at AFA. As with zentangle, this has been a major addition to freeing myself of worries about how things should look in my drawings, and just do something visual. I loved using bold and fun colors and trying out things that I was sure I'd hate before it hit the page, yet turned out ok.<br />
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It has been great to break out my pencils and ink pens and draw again. Drawing is where I began doing art when I was twelve, and I have struggled with trying to make things look "just right" for years. I can do it pretty well, but it has always been time consuming and often frustrating, with only the very best pieces surviving the "tear it up or crush it into a ball and throw it in the trash" process.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4YliVhSKioxuQ4SH6Xe6bMriNAlJ3g0etcKob9ycLpTkD1EzxvDpsOdLjJ6zMV5cFdvyP2EHrpcdk-BC1E4Oj3LpHDclDdCoVSGWnvaKADAcQvhgxFT3r54ChyphenhyphenxNVtLEBppJRJo4oIN4/s1600/At+Night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4YliVhSKioxuQ4SH6Xe6bMriNAlJ3g0etcKob9ycLpTkD1EzxvDpsOdLjJ6zMV5cFdvyP2EHrpcdk-BC1E4Oj3LpHDclDdCoVSGWnvaKADAcQvhgxFT3r54ChyphenhyphenxNVtLEBppJRJo4oIN4/s320/At+Night.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>The method of zentangle has given me patience, confidence, and has allowed me to see where a piece takes me, rather than having it all mapped out ahead of time. Whimsical art has given me permission to try out new color combos and design elements, and to simply have fun with my creations! I'm doing a workshop on artistic expression, finding my own style, through Art Trader magazine, and I'm hoping these few revelations in the last couple of days will help with discovering my own creative style.<br />
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Here are some whimsical pieces, and some flower pieces that are both part of the draw-a-thon and for the Spring Equinox/Ostara swap at AFA. Thanks for checking in!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz80H3TGdggCgtryS_f7FXaTrHlAZKy1nmXr2eh1I5ZEEiOwrLQiP2wff0BRv1z-ZzIpSbGCeGIy-96aEt3fnXVD9dCSP9e_TVGwT6wsng-o9g0ULH1l5uaOKfnKgyK3PYPzyy7PFmfiM/s1600/Fat+Fun+Cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz80H3TGdggCgtryS_f7FXaTrHlAZKy1nmXr2eh1I5ZEEiOwrLQiP2wff0BRv1z-ZzIpSbGCeGIy-96aEt3fnXVD9dCSP9e_TVGwT6wsng-o9g0ULH1l5uaOKfnKgyK3PYPzyy7PFmfiM/s320/Fat+Fun+Cat.jpg" width="227" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbm3U1js0gjLRooGeZIt72s3pC-l-yzGUQmnMfiLDLIarOQ-RlAAEsiX6o1FlkLDcion0_x7XuZzv7lKbVbKXaXGOzgCNeesWS1dIxGTdh7TRjN6Z3EnVRZ0Dkpaumntru3SW-Ei8njs/s1600/My+Crocus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbm3U1js0gjLRooGeZIt72s3pC-l-yzGUQmnMfiLDLIarOQ-RlAAEsiX6o1FlkLDcion0_x7XuZzv7lKbVbKXaXGOzgCNeesWS1dIxGTdh7TRjN6Z3EnVRZ0Dkpaumntru3SW-Ei8njs/s200/My+Crocus.jpg" width="139" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crocus</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AS1SpSeiYfxXLnOqJgKSImiWroBe3zicToXDuYfh0HyHvsqVNLeUK1j-8XrejRrMdw9Wr9VSWS8gtzLIPqc_Z1oyM7d0VW_eMxTAtY6A3wguiYJLOFdMyteSGi3oRlceQDCZfH6yIjQ/s1600/My+Dogwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AS1SpSeiYfxXLnOqJgKSImiWroBe3zicToXDuYfh0HyHvsqVNLeUK1j-8XrejRrMdw9Wr9VSWS8gtzLIPqc_Z1oyM7d0VW_eMxTAtY6A3wguiYJLOFdMyteSGi3oRlceQDCZfH6yIjQ/s200/My+Dogwood.jpg" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dogwood</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0DoFR92wJypBWcZQ9hbpir2yzoJ2lApKm7qB60_0d_xGchV5W96SxK1op6sJqWMECZaRmh1PIkgzle3Fw1Wd225bH3JqOXejT4xlNHO0wjg4kaVOhEu-tAWS5Uo7rqtbW8p70mnVdoZ0/s1600/My+Iris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0DoFR92wJypBWcZQ9hbpir2yzoJ2lApKm7qB60_0d_xGchV5W96SxK1op6sJqWMECZaRmh1PIkgzle3Fw1Wd225bH3JqOXejT4xlNHO0wjg4kaVOhEu-tAWS5Uo7rqtbW8p70mnVdoZ0/s200/My+Iris.jpg" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Irises</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6vOeJBq-e9Fd8FH2Zbsmfvv0jmLJsuPEFr8AnaiOmH6yoQ6EmzdIJqUuiTbFTyqJdCR0GYT4pql7ALd9dzfBCdTahQS44xDzJ5b0ny40haZIXYHHF-F_6A2N2yyDptkIf-nugT2CK6w/s1600/My+Purple+Violets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6vOeJBq-e9Fd8FH2Zbsmfvv0jmLJsuPEFr8AnaiOmH6yoQ6EmzdIJqUuiTbFTyqJdCR0GYT4pql7ALd9dzfBCdTahQS44xDzJ5b0ny40haZIXYHHF-F_6A2N2yyDptkIf-nugT2CK6w/s200/My+Purple+Violets.jpg" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Violets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-72903514829525516282011-03-03T11:07:00.000-08:002011-03-03T11:07:10.748-08:00First journal page(s)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bb3eTdgSFb5fq2PqcMB7PBQMLtRN8rw4L2iyC2erFmvslfu4oDyXGZCpnPd691dm79-R-BaWx15r3C07DFAgyjf9yJnLZfnocfzt6DBA-eSdDuSBe5pQEIWBeO8z9AyIKBhbkFBQ7To/s1600/Page+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bb3eTdgSFb5fq2PqcMB7PBQMLtRN8rw4L2iyC2erFmvslfu4oDyXGZCpnPd691dm79-R-BaWx15r3C07DFAgyjf9yJnLZfnocfzt6DBA-eSdDuSBe5pQEIWBeO8z9AyIKBhbkFBQ7To/s320/Page+1.jpg" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Page 1 Personal Journal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Yes, I actually put paint and marker and paper and glue and stamp to paper and started my own art journal. I am using prompts from a few art journalling books that I found and liked, but I must credit the book <u>Journal Spilling: Mixed - Media Techniques for Free Expression</u> by Diana Trout for getting me started at all. Her opening exercise is called Flash Flood Journaling/Collage Spilling, and it is the best thing I've found yet for getting past all restrictions and insecurities and getting started. I'm not going to spoil it for the author, I highly recommend you get it, no matter who you are or where you are on your artistic journey. It is published by Northlight Books, copyright 2009.<br />
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I also started Art Trader Mag's workshop on artistic style by Andrea Melione and Dana Driscoll. <br />
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Right now I want MORE MORE MORE when it comes to art, and I know that I could easily overwhelm myself, but I want to get better at art and keep meeting the awesome folks I've been meeting on the way. I suffer from depression and isolation, so this is important. I hope that it doesn't get in the way of my plans: more pagan swaps at AFA, more Rolos to keep in touch, a 365 project on portraits which is directly influence by "tascarini" at AFA (you must chech out Sandra's blog here), journals to spill into, tarot cards to create to grow into a deck, and hosting my own swap on Astrology. Keeping up with the 365 project at Naked Heart, and taking an online workshop. I pray that I can trek through the emotional sludge to accomplish these tasks.<br />
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Thanks for reading everyone and stop by again!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-71823219971748237802011-03-01T18:09:00.000-08:002011-03-01T18:09:39.463-08:00Creating even though...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers - Available ATC</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Thank you, Rhonda, for your supportive words. That is a lot of my issue right now, comparing myself to others. But I have to give myself credit for a major thing: after almost 30 years of being able to draw and yearning to create art, I'm finally doing it. Thanks to AFA and those addictive little trading cards, I actually show my art now, and have done more in the last 7 months than in my whole life previously. So now, to get out of that comparison mindset...I need to focus on what will make me feel like I am learning, growing, progressing, and expressing. And this is hard too.<br />
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I saw a workshop offered through Art Trader Magazine that explores creative expression, and helps one find his/her own style. I'm waiting for some money and then I think I'll take it. I'm also going to sit down tonight, get messy, and prep some journal pages.<br />
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The 365 project is great for me. I was working ahead for a while, but now I'm just caught up. Which means I have to do something to post everyday. I have so many reasons why its not a good day to create. But I did something even though (fill in the blank). I don't care if its my best, but I did it. Hopefully I'll have some art journal pages to share soon.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-1034597100699810302011-02-26T15:00:00.000-08:002011-02-26T15:00:01.139-08:00Moley Finished!I'm glad to say that lilbad's moley spread is done. I'm pleased, and I hope she is too!<br />
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</tbody></table>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-442853099468670631.post-53546731945177395492011-02-24T21:06:00.000-08:002011-02-24T21:09:20.160-08:00Less StuckI finally had the breakthrough idea for the moley design. I spent some time worrying over it, then just threw out all my preconceived ideas of what it should be, what skills I should be showing, how it should look. Now, it is quite the, um, evolving piece. I like it in the sense that it expresses the theme the way it feels to me, and can only hope that it turns out visually pleasing to the eye (mostly the journal's owner!). Thank you (especially HHC!) for the support and encouragement I have received, but also the advice to get out of my own way and let go of the shoulds.<br />
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I feel bursting with ideas of projects I want to do, but am still trying to get into the stride of trusting myself more. Each piece takes a long time to work on for me, in comparison to work I see from other artists who produce excellent artwork often and prolifically. It seems like these folks have a strong sense of their own style and they let the muse/energy flow through them to create and create and create. I'm not sure what part of the puzzle I'm missing, but I want to be doing art all of the time and can't keep up with all my ideas. And yet, I'm taking so long on each piece and not producing nearly as much as I feel I could be. <br />
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I just found Sonheim's blog and am excited to sign up for one of her online workshops (as soon as I get my tax money), as well as one or two through Art Trader. I hope this will get me expressing and producing. I'm also very much want to do art journals. But this scares me for some reason. I'm a counselor and psychotherapist, so you can bet I understand professionally and personally how healing the journaling process is. But I can't figure out how to start expressing my feelings directly in art. I know it will put the heart in my art, so to speak, but how to begin? I look at examples of others' work and think, "that is so cool, I can't do that". Such beautiful backgrounds and techniques! I find myself writing a phrase in my book like, "How do I make art about feeling alone?" and nothing comes to mind.<br />
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One idea I had was to get a bunch of magazines and just start cutting them up, and gather images, words, phrases, etc. Then I could just throw them in a box and pick one or two (or ten!) to work with and go for it. What do art journalers out there think?<br />
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Ok, enough for now. I wanted to show anyone that is reading my entry for January's AFA ATC contest. It didn't win but I think it held it's own!<br />
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Here's to sticking with the process even when it feels like its going nowhere...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan 2011 Contest Entry - Sun, Moon and Stars</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12181907972147053843noreply@blogger.com2