tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19594970824759917602024-03-12T16:39:11.188-07:00Hip Chick DesignsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger203125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-20254516085109449862013-04-11T12:42:00.002-07:002013-04-11T12:42:42.233-07:00Pamela Huffington<div align="center"><br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Artful Gathering Event <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Registration</a> is Open!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Dz3XGZp1879fP-C9rDskvXK4RMi-yr9znRVLAbngpC0SnP0dIBLlafOarnDbudujmSD*YtWQsnryg5c9BSb3lGGy3zF0Zimw/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg?width=549" width="549" /></a><br />
<div align="center"><br />
<b><span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm the Spotlight Artist for The Artful Gathering 2013 Blog Hop!</span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center"></div>
<div align="center"><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Follow along with me for fun, creativity, and a chance to win a</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">$200.00 Gift Certificate for The Artful Gathering Marketplace Opening Soon. The winner can apply the certificate toward any 2013 online art workshop(s).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="font-size-2" style="font-size: small;">*kits and dvds not applicable.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Register to the even<span style="font-size: large;">t <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_self">here</a></span><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center"><br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm presenting My Brand New Workshop at<br />
</span></div>
<div align="center"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Online at Artful Gathering 2013!</span></div>
<div align="center"></div>
<div align="center"><a target="_self" href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Z311HW*8BLuzFg*YbSwsxb3nbt43QAgCm4qGeQmmA0ZU5RRo0lEhtjW9Kqjx6X6QFeMXP9GEQ6a9Fpn1vWCG8OnHZBow5msC/PAMALA.jpg"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Z311HW*8BLuzFg*YbSwsxb3nbt43QAgCm4qGeQmmA0ZU5RRo0lEhtjW9Kqjx6X6QFeMXP9GEQ6a9Fpn1vWCG8OnHZBow5msC/PAMALA.jpg?width=450" width="450" /></a><a target="_self" href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Z311HW*8BLtS7JbaWAL3OBahbT0J*0wOvly6ApKEb9MvG6LvPUbQK3lP0-SDy31FqHkNxqWcnrbkY0EMKZxrdat67q61NsR8/photoshopwithpamelahuntington.jpg"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Z311HW*8BLtS7JbaWAL3OBahbT0J*0wOvly6ApKEb9MvG6LvPUbQK3lP0-SDy31FqHkNxqWcnrbkY0EMKZxrdat67q61NsR8/photoshopwithpamelahuntington.jpg?width=550" width="550" /></a></div>
<div align="center"></div>
<div align="center"><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>Come Hop With US!</b></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>Hop Rules:</b></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>If you would like to hop with us and meet all the super awesome <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Artful Gathering 2013</a> Art Instructors, and have a chance to win a random drawing prize in our random drawing, then hop with us! Each week, I will announce the blog for you to visit, and off you go to meet them, and to pick up the newest secret word.<br />
</b></span></div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn. The winner will receive a $200 gift certificate for a 2013 Online Video Workshop(s). *Not applicable to workshop kits or dvds.*<br />
</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">This weeks word is .....</span><span class="font-size-4" style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>only</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Next week, I'll announce the next person to hop to. Good luck!!!</span></li>
</ol></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-11966674601154503632013-04-03T11:40:00.001-07:002013-04-03T11:40:31.154-07:00Jacqueline Newbold<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img height="200" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/enhkXjvpxARPzNWperY1kC9Zjd*x3bItvRUfsMvfv4ytkq35yJnPw8c2g7MDzVvEGxMAEN1p8N2tLT31ovBgMx03CYDawl-R/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Celebrating Artful Gathering 2013 Online Art Retreat</b></span></span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-5" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Open for Registration</a></b></span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<b>Blog Hop your way for chance to win!</b></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br />
From <b>June to August 2013</b>, <b><a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">ArtfulGathering.com</a></b> will be presenting <b>TWO</b> exciting semesters of premiere online video workshops offered by fabulous artists who are known nationally and internationally. We are all very excited to share ou<span style="color: #0000ee;">r</span> knowledge, skill, and creativity with you, and we hope that you will join us for this AMAZING annual online event.</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<br />
<b>Blog Hop with us for a chance to win a $200 gift certificate towards an Artful Gathering 2013 online video workshop(s).</b></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
(Gift certificate applicable to 2013 workshops only and does not apply towards kits or dvds).</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
Each week I will announce the next featured blog for you to visit, and there you will find a new secret word or words that you will need to collect along your way. Once you have collected all the words from each blog you visit, they will work out to say a very artsy phrase. Here are the rules:</div>
<div style="margin-left: 2em;">
<ol start="1">
<li><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words.<br />
<br />
</b></li>
<li><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn from the list of participants who have collected all the secret words.<br />
</b></li>
</ol>
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
Remember to collect <u>all</u> the secret words. These words will work out to say a very artful phrase, and you'll need all the pieces to be eligible for the final prize drawing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>Please HOP over and visit the Amazing</b></span><br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>Jacqueline Newbold<br />
</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://djnewbold.blogspot.com/">http://djnewbold.blogspot.com/</a>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>(Pick Up the Next Secret Word)</b></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-20285108873437606902013-03-21T21:54:00.001-07:002013-03-21T21:54:36.974-07:00Riki Schumacher<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img height="200" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/enhkXjvpxARPzNWperY1kC9Zjd*x3bItvRUfsMvfv4ytkq35yJnPw8c2g7MDzVvEGxMAEN1p8N2tLT31ovBgMx03CYDawl-R/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Celebrating Artful Gathering 2013 Online Art Retreat</b></span></span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-5" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Open for Registration</a></b></span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<b>Blog Hop your way for chance to win!</b></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br />
From <b>June to August 2013</b>, <b><a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">ArtfulGathering.com</a></b> will be presenting <b>TWO</b> exciting semesters of premiere online video workshops offered by fabulous artists who are known nationally and internationally. We are all very excited to share ou<span style="color: #0000ee;">r</span> knowledge, skill, and creativity with you, and we hope that you will join us for this AMAZING annual online event.</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<br />
<b>Blog Hop with us for a chance to win a $200 gift certificate towards an Artful Gathering 2013 online video workshop(s).</b></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
(Gift certificate applicable to 2013 workshops only and does not apply towards kits or dvds).</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
Each week I will announce the next featured blog for you to visit, and there you will find a new secret word or words that you will need to collect along your way. Once you have collected all the words from each blog you visit, they will work out to say a very artsy phrase. Here are the rules:</div>
<div style="margin-left: 2em;">
<ol start="1">
<li><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words.<br />
<br />
</b></li>
<li><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn from the list of participants who have collected all the secret words.<br />
</b></li>
</ol>
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
Remember to collect <u>all</u> the secret words. These words will work out to say a very artful phrase, and you'll need all the pieces to be eligible for the final prize drawing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>Please HOP over and visit the Amazing</b></span><br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>Riki Schumacher<br />
</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://rikijewelry.blogspot.com/">http://rikijewelry.blogspot.com/</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>(Pick Up the Next Secret Word)</b></span></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-79684804494783646382013-03-07T09:11:00.000-08:002013-03-07T09:11:04.027-08:00 Featured Artist: Mary Beth Shaw <div align="center"><br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Artful Gathering Event <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Registration</a> is Open!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Dz3XGZp1879fP-C9rDskvXK4RMi-yr9znRVLAbngpC0SnP0dIBLlafOarnDbudujmSD*YtWQsnryg5c9BSb3lGGy3zF0Zimw/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg?width=549" width="549" /></a><br />
<div align="center"><br />
<b><span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm the Spotlight Artist for The Artful Gathering 2013 Blog Hop!</span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center"></div>
<div align="center"><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Follow along with me for fun, creativity, and a chance to win a</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">$200.00 Gift Certificate for The Artful Gathering Marketplace Opening Soon. The winner can apply the certificate toward any 2013 online art workshop(s).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="font-size-2" style="font-size: small;">*kits and dvds not applicable.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Register to the even<span style="font-size: large;">t <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/">here</a></span><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center"><br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm presenting Two Different Art Workshops<br />
</span></div>
<div align="center"><br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Online at Artful Gathering 2013!</span></div>
<div align="center"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<a target="_self" href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUblKkVmwDe1bQIlwZ5LsvIvGST-UdCmMxjc5lat*CdBxjiJH-*xX6vq9TVkZhZZr-yOmOgMCJ4x2lUz5f73Ngrv/marybeth22.jpg"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUblKkVmwDe1bQIlwZ5LsvIvGST-UdCmMxjc5lat*CdBxjiJH-*xX6vq9TVkZhZZr-yOmOgMCJ4x2lUz5f73Ngrv/marybeth22.jpg?width=350" width="350" /></a><a target="_self" href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUbHhioGOcvgrDfo7z7T3FBlMQ8KbH9hBSG0ddaIeOS63ilYXLW9gCO2PzJ0uVHwKrv2EGpz**-TcX*eG19RQwRV/abstractsmarybethshaw.jpg"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUbHhioGOcvgrDfo7z7T3FBlMQ8KbH9hBSG0ddaIeOS63ilYXLW9gCO2PzJ0uVHwKrv2EGpz**-TcX*eG19RQwRV/abstractsmarybethshaw.jpg?width=400" width="400" /></a><a target="_self" href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUb-sbo9lwLqacxsBHiKyrXrV1CTotr0e381xrNuCdhwg2*qCPB*8hnAl3uXFtIp2YBiZ5AjowI*QP--O4hK7EtV/mbshawbadge.jpg"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUb-sbo9lwLqacxsBHiKyrXrV1CTotr0e381xrNuCdhwg2*qCPB*8hnAl3uXFtIp2YBiZ5AjowI*QP--O4hK7EtV/mbshawbadge.jpg?width=400" width="400" /></a><a target="_self" href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUawHPhhGtKAoQiMNRM*QRQcKIJCfIePyZUTWEm*OghNe-ji0SXs4MBIzzo4hI2cnLvI-FrHnZNFQ8xFiakbzRbd/paintingwithoutfearmarybeth.jpg"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/kpPDTkb*yUawHPhhGtKAoQiMNRM*QRQcKIJCfIePyZUTWEm*OghNe-ji0SXs4MBIzzo4hI2cnLvI-FrHnZNFQ8xFiakbzRbd/paintingwithoutfearmarybeth.jpg?width=400" width="400" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>Come Hop With US!</b></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>Hop Rules:</b></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>If you would like to hop with us and meet all the super awesome <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Artful Gathering 2013</a> Art Instructors, and have a chance to win a random drawing prize in our random drawing, then hop with us! Each week, I will announce the blog for you to visit, and off you go to meet them, and to pick up the newest secret word.<br />
</b></span></div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn. The winner will receive a $200 gift certificate for a 2013 Online Video Workshop(s). *Not applicable to workshop kits or dvds.*<br />
</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">This weeks word is .....</span><span class="font-size-4" style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>PAINT</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Next week, I'll announce the next person to hop to. Good luck!!!</span></li>
</ol></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-81933877826466975442013-02-26T22:43:00.001-08:002013-02-26T22:43:51.011-08:00Colleen Moody featured Artist <div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Artful Gathering Event <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Registration</a> is Open!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Dz3XGZp1879fP-C9rDskvXK4RMi-yr9znRVLAbngpC0SnP0dIBLlafOarnDbudujmSD*YtWQsnryg5c9BSb3lGGy3zF0Zimw/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg?width=549" width="549" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
<br />
<b><span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm the Spotlight Artist for The Artful Gathering 2013 Blog Hop!</span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Follow along with me for fun, creativity, and a chance to win a</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">$200.00 Gift Certificate for The Artful Gathering Marketplace Opening Soon. The winner can apply the certificate toward any 2013 online art workshop(s).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="font-size-2" style="font-size: small;">*kits and dvds not applicable.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Register to the even<span style="font-size: large;">t <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/">here</a></span><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm presenting Briley the Birdie Workshop </span></div>
<div align="center">
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Online at Artful Gathering 2013!</span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Come and Join me for Six Weeks of Creativity...<br />
</span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://api.ning.com/files/PVUFvCY-afa75AcIfUfUeBxYk12sy5rvkUy3voh0HR01j46YRYWAx4w8MOJRtFEgrWElOz15tisnEFYrNb0hEIqaKghA*1IJ/colleens.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/PVUFvCY-afa75AcIfUfUeBxYk12sy5rvkUy3voh0HR01j46YRYWAx4w8MOJRtFEgrWElOz15tisnEFYrNb0hEIqaKghA*1IJ/colleens.jpg?width=450" width="450" /></a><a href="http://api.ning.com/files/PVUFvCY-afZwlM9t6LBB-lTbgm2xMkazatWveZoaPYpsssEFDP7gggttd0Lyx4SVYDXLi7Y1Vl5vqXjPZxZnecs7FTCXl0mf/ColleenTweetheart1.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/PVUFvCY-afZwlM9t6LBB-lTbgm2xMkazatWveZoaPYpsssEFDP7gggttd0Lyx4SVYDXLi7Y1Vl5vqXjPZxZnecs7FTCXl0mf/ColleenTweetheart1.jpg?width=450" width="450" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>Come Hop With US!</b></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>Hop Rules:</b></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><b>If you would like to hop with us and meet all the super awesome <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Artful Gathering 2013</a> Art Instructors, and have a chance to win a random drawing prize in our random drawing, then hop with us! Each week, I will announce the blog for you to visit, and off you go to meet them, and to pick up the newest secret word.<br />
</b></span></div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn. The winner will receive a $200 gift certificate for a 2013 Online Video Workshop(s). *Not applicable to workshop kits or dvds.*<br />
</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">This weeks word is .....</span><span class="font-size-4" style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>SEEN</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Next week, I'll announce the next person to hop to. Good luck!!!</span></li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-34112609193612415222013-02-19T22:05:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:05:17.398-08:00Pam Carriker featured Artist<div align="center">
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Artful Gathering Event <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Registration</a> is Open!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/Dz3XGZp1879fP-C9rDskvXK4RMi-yr9znRVLAbngpC0SnP0dIBLlafOarnDbudujmSD*YtWQsnryg5c9BSb3lGGy3zF0Zimw/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg?width=549" width="549" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
<br />
<b><span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm the Spotlight Artist for The Artful Gathering 2013 Blog Hop!</span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;">Follow along with me for fun, creativity, and a chance to win a</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">$200.00 Gift Certificate for The Artful Gathering Marketplace Opening Soon. The winner can apply the certificate toward any 2013 online art workshop(s). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="font-size-2" style="font-size: small;">*kits and dvds not applicable.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="font-size-2"> </span><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">I'm presenting TWO classes at Artful Gathering 2013!</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: large;">Come and Join me for....</span></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #ba348f; font-family: Georgia,Times New Roman,Times,serif; font-size: 15pt; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: black;"><b>Come Hop With US!</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black;"><b>Hop Rules:</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><b>If you would like to hop with us and meet all the super awesome <a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Artful Gathering 2013</a> Art Instructors, and have a chance to win a random drawing prize in our random drawing, then hop with us! Each week, I will announce the blog for you to visit, and off you go to meet them, and to pick up the newest secret word.<br />
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<li><span style="color: black;"><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn. The winner will receive a $200 gift certificate for a 2013 Online Video Workshop(s). *Not applicable to workshop kits or dvds.*<br />
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<li><span style="color: black;">This weeks word is .....</span><span class="font-size-4" style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>WORLD</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">Next week, I'll announce the next person to hop to. Good luck!!!</span></li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-18610146795959501482013-02-13T08:08:00.000-08:002013-02-13T08:08:26.423-08:00I am teaching at Artful Gathering!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://artfulgatheringfest.ning.com/" target="_self"><img height="200" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/enhkXjvpxARPzNWperY1kC9Zjd*x3bItvRUfsMvfv4ytkq35yJnPw8c2g7MDzVvEGxMAEN1p8N2tLT31ovBgMx03CYDawl-R/bloghopbadgerevised.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="font-size-4" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Celebrating Artful Gathering 2013 Online Art Retreat</b></span></span></div>
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<span class="font-size-5" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">Open for Registration</a></b></span></div>
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<b>Blog Hop your way for chance to win!</b></div>
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From <b>June to August 2013</b>, <b><a href="http://artfulgathering.com/" target="_blank">ArtfulGathering.com</a></b> will be presenting <b>TWO</b> exciting semesters of premiere online video workshops offered by fabulous artists who are known nationally and internationally. We are all very excited to share ou<span style="color: #0000ee;">r</span> knowledge, skill, and creativity with you, and we hope that you will join us for this AMAZING annual online event.</div>
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<b>Blog Hop with us for a chance to win a $200 gift certificate towards an Artful Gathering 2013 online video workshop(s). </b></div>
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(Gift certificate applicable to workshops only and does not apply towards kits or dvds).</div>
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Each week I will announce the next featured blog for you to visit, and there you will find a new secret word or words that you will need to collect along your way. Once you have collected all the words from each blog you visit, they will work out to say a very artsy phrase. Here are the rules:</div>
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<li><b>For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those participants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words.<br />
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<li><b>Only one winner will be randomly drawn from the list of participants who have collected all the secret words.<br />
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Remember to collect <u>all</u> the secret words. These words will work out to say a very artful phrase, and you'll need all the pieces to be eligible for the final prize drawing!</div>
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<span class="font-size-4"><b>Please HOP over and visit the Amazing</b></span><br />
<span class="font-size-4"><b>Nancy Malay</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.nancymalay.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://www.nancymalay.blogspot.com/</a></div>;
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<span class="font-size-4"><b>(Pick Up the Next Secret Word)</b></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-35827176493640016272012-10-25T10:20:00.001-07:002012-10-25T10:20:40.391-07:00Overcoming blocksToday is Thursday, 9:17 am and I lay in my cozy bed while writing this blog post. I love to lay in bed, it's my haven. I especially love it when it's cold and drizzly outside, which it is right now. So week one has started of The Artist Way, I have been doing my morning pages, have you? I just did my artist date last night, I went to REI and took a class on bird drawing. It was fun, free and really informative. I didn't even know REI had classes, but I looked on an email they sent and decided to try something new. I am glad I did, it was really enjoyable, and the teacher had great charisma. He is going to form a group that meets once a month in different locations to gather, draw birds, and encourage people to share their drawings. All for free. How great is that? <br />
I am glad I tried something new, thanks to doing The Artist Way, I exposed myself to another outlet. That's what it's all about. What did you do for your artist date? I know the week isn't over yet but I would love to hear from those of you who are joining the party. <br />
The topic of this post is overcoming blocks, the reason I choose this as my title is I have had a big artistic block for sometime and I thought I would share it with you. I tend to surf the net and take online classes a lot. Too much I think. I think it's inspiring and helpful to learn new techniques and see other aritsts work to help inspire my own art. But it doesn't. It actually does the opposite. I feel like everyone else is knocking it out of the ball park, that I have no style of my own and that if only I could paint like so and so...then I would be happy. <br />
One of my favorite artists to date is Robert Burridge, I love his energy and passion for painting and his paintings just resonate with me, here is his website for those who are interested...<a href="http://www.robertburridge.com/index.html">http://www.robertburridge.com/index.html</a>. He is a fun, charismatic painter and I bought his workbook and DVD which are full of amazing tips on how to be a good painter. Here is one example of his work. I simply love his palette and use of color and shape.<br />
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He talks a lot about working on a series. So I decided to work on a series. Except it was creating some angst because I couldn't think of what the heck to do a series on. Should I paint horses, trucks, landscapes, the ocean, people, what? On top of it I was trying to paint abstract for the first time in my life, while also implementing his color wheel. It was all very frustrating, and yet good on some level that I was trying something new. Well, a funny thing happened in this process, I figured out what to do for my series, and it's been right in front on me all along. Tutus. Of course. Why WOULDN'T I think of tutu's is the better question right? I will tell you why I didn't want to paint tutu's. I thought how cliche. I was afraid of being cheesy, of being too cute. This prevented me from trying. Then my friend Darlana came by the shop last week, I was going to give her all my tutu fabric because I was just done with it. She said, "are you sure. don't you just want to keep some of it? ", and we talked and played with the tutu fabric and created a tutu on canvas in like 15 mins. I had to admit it was kind of cute. Almost too cute for me, but not ridiculous. It got me thinking, I am the tutu lady, these tutu's have come to me and have something to say, why not listen? I realized the tutu's need to go on canvas. I need to put all the things I love together: Tutu's, canvas, paint, collage. I boldly dipped a tutu in paint then glued it on collaged canvas, adding shellac, and more paint and kept going until I liked it. I added a paper towel that had beautiful ink from another project as a bow and "VOILA", I had my first tutu painting! Here it is.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LN0cIlmiOOg/UIlt5HPLM2I/AAAAAAAABd8/nKHOGRIDeoE/s1600/2012-10-24+14.58.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LN0cIlmiOOg/UIlt5HPLM2I/AAAAAAAABd8/nKHOGRIDeoE/s320/2012-10-24+14.58.39.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
The first of my series. Yay! I have overcome my block and I am going with this, I don't know how many to do, or what they are all going to be, but I am inspired. I want to see how many different ways I can manipulate a tutu on canvas, and I am sure this will keep me busy for quite awhile. I also set a goal to get my tutu pictures compiled into a book, this is another big goal I have avoided due to the tediousness of the project. It requires patience and time. YUCK, I am all about a quick fix so this has been on the to do list for YEARS. No more. I am breaking it into manageable chunks, one photo at a time, one page at a time, and eventually I will get there. It feel so much better to be in action around these things that had me stuck then to avoid them. This is my lesson. I am better when I am structured, when I implement goals. I was floundering for a while there, absorbing everyone else's process instead of working on my own. It's so much easier to watch others create, to take a class, read a book, look on pintrest and facebook , then it is to do the work. I also bought the book, "Do The Work" by Stephen Pressfield, it's a must have for the art studio because he nails the demon resistance big time. "Our enemy is not lack of preparation: it's not the difficulty of the project, or the state of the marketplace or the emptiness of the bank account. The enemy is RESISTANCE. The enemy is our chattering brain, which, if we give it so much as a nanosecond, will start producing excuses, alibis, transparent self-justifications and a million reasons why she can't/shouldn't/ won't do what we know we need to do." This is just the front inside cover to his book, there is a lot of meat inside. I need to refer to this book whenever I feel resistance rear it's ugly head. <br />
I best be getting to the studio, it's Bob day, I pick up my studio mate Bob every other Thursday and bring him to the studio so he can paint. Thank you for taking time to read my post, please share any experiences or insight you care to, I love hearing how we are all in this together. Have a great week, I will be writing again soon.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-10018404318684920372012-10-19T10:31:00.000-07:002012-10-19T10:31:21.489-07:00The Artist Way AgainWow, it's been about 4 months since I blogged. I admit I burned out. Trying to keep up with blogging and facebook, my website, the shop, and be creative and produce art is a heavy load. I ended up just posting on facebook as it's fast and easy, what can I say when it comes right down to it this is my M.O. I am blogging today to challenge myself. I encourage you to join me. I am reading The Artist Way, again, in the hopes of it unblocking me and getting me to another level. For those of you who don't know about this book, here it is. <a href="http://juliacameronlive.com/books-by-julia/the-artists-way-a-spiritual-path-to-higher-creativity/">http://juliacameronlive.com/books-by-julia/the-artists-way-a-spiritual-path-to-higher-creativity/</a>. It's my bible. I love this book. It really transformed my life back in June of 2008. It lead to exactly where I am today, the owner of Hip Chick Designs. Now I am ready to see where it will lead me from here. I have been in a bit of a creative funk. I want to make a series, have lots of art to sell and show and yet I am frustrated as heck as to what to paint. My space is wonderful now, having added some square footage for my art area, and yet I am still blocked. I have tried brute force. I have not tried quitting. I will never get to where I am going by abandoning the path now. But it's not clear. So I am recommitting to what worked before. I am also mentoring Laura Garcia of The Elegant Nest in her journey. She came to me (synchronicity) out of the blue looking for inspiration, and I recommended The Artist Way. Before the first week was up I realized I needed to join her and do it again myself. So I am going to blog this experience, as a means to show what happens when you take action, and to help any and all who want to join the party. There is a real movement of creative women doing all kinds of amazing things right now. There are no end of possibilities for classes, retreats, Facebook groups, pintrest, blogs, you name it. It can be overwhelming for me sometimes, I want to do it all. But what I will do is what works for me, and this book really speaks to me. So if you are stuck, if you want to see what you are capable of, I encourage you to get this book and follow along with Laura and I. I will be posting often, and if enough people show interest we could create a facebook group just for sharing our experiences. It will be fun, free and enlightening. Week one begins Monday October 22nd. Start now, read the introduction, and week one to be ready for what your week will look like. I am excited.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-552805658621389622012-06-17T09:36:00.000-07:002012-06-17T09:36:08.422-07:00Last happeningsIts been almost 2 months since I have done a blog post, wow. I am sorry for those who check this and wonder what happened? I have been neglectful. I do facebook daily and I guess that works best as it's quick and easy, the blog I was using for stories, events, bigger things basically. Guess nothing that big has been noteworthy? But alas it's not true. Things are changing as they always do and this is the latest. Since my last blog post I have been co-partnering with Michelle Barton at the shop. <br />
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We met at Annie Sloan's San Francisco workshop and clicked right away. She was loving everything about Hip Chick Designs and wanting to help out and be a part of it. My hands make light work, and I thought "let's give it a try". Its been a good fit. She works Tuesday and Wednesday and every other Saturday which frees up my time quite a bit. She also has a great eye for design and can add her own style and twist to the over look of the shop. If you come and meet MIchelle you will be charmed by her Southern hospitality and smile. She is simply delightful. As well as acquiring a partner we have acquired more space! My studio mate Bob comes only once a week and has the most desirable space in the back with nothing but delicious light. We agreed the space is underutilized and have de cluttered, painted and "Wa-La" transformed the place! I can show you a sneak peek...</div>
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I can't wait to really get this going with cute furniture and play and host classes in the future. I just want to hang out back here it's so inviting....what is going well is Chalk Paint. I love it, customers love it, everything looks good in chalk paint and I am glad I am able to sell it. The best thing about chalk paint is the quick fix, you can slap on this stuff and in less then a couple hours have it totally transformed and fabulous. It goes on anything and makes it look amazing.</div>
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on the creative fron I have been busy with some commission projects, I painted an outdoor mural and pet portrait as well as I like to work on my own creations when I have time. I made this piece called "She Soars" lately and I want to create a series of women silhouettes in various modes, they resonate with me. I love using all that I am, a woman, a seeker, a painter, and putting it together on canvas. I get in my way too much over thinking what to paint instead of just letting it happen. I am learning and this is an ongoing process for me.</div>
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I am very critical of my art, usually wishing it were somehow 'better', my biggest obstacle is me and my critic, and I wrestle with it constantly. I tell you this so you know I just keep at it, and that's the hardest part, to just do it anyway. I want to break through the things that get in my way in life, be it people, circumstances or my own negativity. By gently, and sometimes forcefully acknowledging the block I can work towards removing it. I am reading a wonderful book about this topic called, "Trust the Process"by Shaun McNiff. It helps to know that I am not alone, that many other people struggle like me with the same issues. I don't have a lot of creative people close to me to bounce this off of, it's usually me, myself and I in the studio and sometimes that's a dangerous combination! I love the creative energy that exists among artists, the camaraderie and non competitive nature that we want to help each other see what we need to see. </div>
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Today is Father's Day, I never liked this holiday as I had bad vibes in the Father department growing up. Now I get to celebrate my husband being a good father and today we are going to Santa Cruz. My favorite. I love the beach, it's where I feel most grounded. My goal is to be living there in two years, and I will have to find a sweet spot to relocate the shop. But for today, I will just go enjoy the sound of the waves and watch Abby ,my daughter and Ben , my husband, surf. Thanks for checking in on me. A heads up for those who go to the shop. I will be closed from June 30th to July 7th for 4th of July summer vacation. Nothing like Bass lake and s'mores to celebrate independence. Thank you for all your love and support with Hip Chick Designs, it's you who care that help me keep doing what I am doing..</div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-80857867890850211482012-04-17T21:45:00.001-07:002012-04-18T08:30:00.510-07:00Jennifer Perimutter Interview<div class="p1">I met Jennifer at Hip Chick Designs one fine day a while back and liked her instantly. She is such a sweet, warm woman and talented to boot. I admire her style, color palette and expressive abstract nature of her work. Here is a bio bite along with an example of her work....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_xpyqz_Bhg/T45FpiGmhtI/AAAAAAAABU8/Zp6gKjxRhdc/s1600/319a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_xpyqz_Bhg/T45FpiGmhtI/AAAAAAAABU8/Zp6gKjxRhdc/s320/319a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"></div><div class="p1"><b>About</b></div><div class="p2">Jennifer Perlmutter: Artist. Contemporary Art | Abstract Expressionism | Mixed Media Abstract</div><div class="p3"><b>Biography</b></div><div class="p2">Working in abstract expressionism for 15 years, Jennifer Perlmutter creates contemporary art using mixed media on wood and canvas. Her artwork is distinguished by complex layers and a push-pull of color, figure and texture. Jennifer’s fine art has been featured on film & television and currently hangs in The Mirage in Las Vegas, Traum Haus in Seoul, S. Korea, and Toronto’s Casino Niagara. </div><div class="p4"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Jennifer lives and works in San Francisco’s East Bay.</div><div class="p2">5 Artist Questions for Jennifer Perimutter</div><br />
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</div><div class="p2">How long have you been making art?</div><div class="p1">I have been making art since about 1997. My entry into art was through film and television creating props and transforming ordinary lumber into scenery. From Dusk Til Dawn, Quentin Tarantino's cult classic gave me the great training in paint and effects. I was in heaven and learning from some very talented artists. But I wanted to work in the real world where the things I made could be felt and seen in person. So from there I went into furniture design. I took a series of classes at UCLA in Furniture making. Afterwards I started working for a high end furniture painter, learning hand painting techniques in oil and water media on antique reproduction furniture. In 2000 I opened my own furniture painting and design studio. I began painting on wood and scrap to test materials and techniques, turning the traditional designs in to contemporary abstracts. These paintings, hanging in our furniture studio, caught the eye of our interior design clients and started to sell. After we had our son, we down-sized and my passion for paint moved from design onto the canvas.</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p2">How long did it take for you to find your unique style?</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p1">The unique style in my paintings is still developing and hopefully always will. This is cultivated over time and changes and course corrects every day. When I look back at hundreds of paintings I do see a common thread. This thread or "unique style" has a lot to do with the surface, texture and warm colors of the paintings. Collage was added in 2010 and I am still very interested in using collage in my paintings.</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Do you consider yourself successful?</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Yes, I consider myself successful but I do not feel like "success" is a destination. Success is showing up to the canvas, listening earnestly, responding to what matters and letting go of the rest. I have sold hundreds of paintings over the last 12 years, my images have been licensed to tapestry, posters and limited editions, commissions, TEDx talk, yada, yada... Painting and sharing the paintings, repeat this process for Success.</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Where do you get your ideas?</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p1">The ideas for my paintings are always coming at me from music, memories, dreams, nature, feelings and impressions of people. I think very visually. It is very easy for me to imagine the colors of emotions and memories. Even friendships can be described with texture and color. So when I am painting, I tune into my heart and feel the colors and textures that I want to express. Sometime there are problems to resolve, sometimes there are things to celebrate.</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Do you have a loud critic at your back, if so how do you manage it?</div><div class="p3"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Generally I would not say I have a loud critic at my back when it comes to painting. I don't think of something outside of myself that feeds me negativity. It's just me. I taught myself that the painting is, "on it's way." In other words, chill out and let the painting develop. If I don't like it, it is not finished.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-APYQKiNvTQ4/T45GC-9KneI/AAAAAAAABVE/LtbzcJt5ERU/s1600/IMG_0362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-APYQKiNvTQ4/T45GC-9KneI/AAAAAAAABVE/LtbzcJt5ERU/s320/IMG_0362.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is Jennifer preparing her canvas</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YMaZ_dbot4c/T45GMuS-GHI/AAAAAAAABVM/JsJvjSuo3vQ/s1600/IMG_0349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YMaZ_dbot4c/T45GMuS-GHI/AAAAAAAABVM/JsJvjSuo3vQ/s320/IMG_0349.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">then she ends up with this..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_xpyqz_Bhg/T45FpiGmhtI/AAAAAAAABU8/Zp6gKjxRhdc/s1600/319a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_xpyqz_Bhg/T45FpiGmhtI/AAAAAAAABU8/Zp6gKjxRhdc/s320/319a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Incredible!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For more information about Jennifer's art check out her website, <a href="http://www.jenniferperlmutter.com/">www.jenniferperlmutter.com</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-69558222831757446542012-04-07T22:07:00.000-07:002012-04-07T22:07:24.122-07:00Do the work...Lately I have been motivated to paint. I rarely go long stretches without making something but after Artfest I have decided to try to do a painting a day. I did manage to do so thus far here they are<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 1 is this one<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59DiHnyBPMk/T4EVxNBhTuI/AAAAAAAABS0/WjSqgvhBbD8/s1600/thoughtful+gaze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59DiHnyBPMk/T4EVxNBhTuI/AAAAAAAABS0/WjSqgvhBbD8/s320/thoughtful+gaze.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Day 2 is this<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdnMk4a_oD0/T4EVwZQ4IZI/AAAAAAAABSs/Ts-iiwZWpG4/s1600/hummingbird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdnMk4a_oD0/T4EVwZQ4IZI/AAAAAAAABSs/Ts-iiwZWpG4/s320/hummingbird.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> Day 3 is this<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgjd9h_9W7U/T4EVvDg-BVI/AAAAAAAABSU/3XIgGfH5dns/s1600/amongst+the+trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgjd9h_9W7U/T4EVvDg-BVI/AAAAAAAABSU/3XIgGfH5dns/s320/amongst+the+trees.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Day 4 this<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5AgfABCOGw/T4EVvbyDqxI/AAAAAAAABSY/4OgTiCClE44/s1600/charlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5AgfABCOGw/T4EVvbyDqxI/AAAAAAAABSY/4OgTiCClE44/s1600/charlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CYQBNCYHRXg/T4EVv3AI4LI/AAAAAAAABSk/-rcDxiaPZw0/s1600/dont+think.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CYQBNCYHRXg/T4EVv3AI4LI/AAAAAAAABSk/-rcDxiaPZw0/s320/dont+think.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day 5 this</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5AgfABCOGw/T4EVvbyDqxI/AAAAAAAABSY/4OgTiCClE44/s1600/charlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5AgfABCOGw/T4EVvbyDqxI/AAAAAAAABSY/4OgTiCClE44/s320/charlotte.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">this last one is done with fat oil pastels and it was messy! I like it but I recognize it isn't exactly right. What I am happy about is my ability to be ok with that. I had the meanest critic ever always harping at me until recently. He isn't gone but he doesn't get listened to as much. Instead I am focused on just doing the work. Whatever we do be it painting, skiing, dancing, music, learning a language, whatever it is, we only get better at it by practicing. There are a rare few like Mozart and others who are simply genius, but alas I am not one. I need to do a lot of practicing. Most great artists have done years of work before they get any recognition, and I simply must follow suit if I aim to get really good. I do. Aim to get really good. People are really challenging for me and I have shied away from them out of frustration. No longer. I meet them head on (literally) and dive in. The only way to do it is to do it. I am so profound, it's scary. Ha Ha. I am focused and dedicated which are necessary components to success, and passion is the most essential ingredient of all. I am passionate about creating, I want to see what I am capable of. It's only been a couple of years since I started this store/studio and it has changed constantly. At times the store has been a bigger focus than my art. Right now it's flipped and my art is a bigger focus. So I am going to keep at it. Just thought I would share, often I read how I am inspiring another and that makes me grateful. I am fortunate to be able to go to the beach next week and get some ocean air in my lungs. We'll see what this produces, hope you all have a Happy Easter !</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-57453032891479687892012-04-03T22:51:00.000-07:002012-04-03T22:51:00.294-07:00Artfest 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Words will not adequately convey the fabulousness of the Artfest experience. The pictures will do the talking. I shall attempt to narrate. How did I decide on Artfest you ask? I believe I found it via facebook or on Misty Mawn's website. She is my favorite artist, and I had just taken her online class in January. Highly recommend it. There were a group of women who all posted about taking Misty live at Artfest and I caught wind of it. I thought, that would be epic and then I looked into it. She was teaching on my birthday for crying out loud. How could it be any better? I went for it. I am so glad I did. It quite literally blew my mind. I don't think my feet touched the ground the entire time I was there. It was my first trip to Washington, it's cold there see. I usually opt for warm and beachy. But I decided to bring long sleeves and work with it. It rained everyday, as expected, and was quite windy (48mph winds) but I overlooked the weather, and took in the charm of Washington. It reminds me of Maine, it has a seaside, quaint and historical look to it. Brick buildings and colonial style houses.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nQUELpIKchQ/T3veYouRZmI/AAAAAAAABQ8/9ywr1M_JV24/s1600/DSC_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nQUELpIKchQ/T3veYouRZmI/AAAAAAAABQ8/9ywr1M_JV24/s320/DSC_0055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I arrived on Weds, March 28th and drove from the airport to Port Townsend with a friend named Lisa who I had only known online.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5556wIhqdY/T3vg__60KUI/AAAAAAAABRc/kbhNT9K8Xb4/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5556wIhqdY/T3vg__60KUI/AAAAAAAABRc/kbhNT9K8Xb4/s320/DSC_0039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We chatted the whole way and stopped at some thrift shops on the way. Then we were there, at Fort Warden, an ideal location to host the entire event. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EsuYEMfzXBo/T3vd-_A-RdI/AAAAAAAABQ0/0X2EJI_GQcg/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EsuYEMfzXBo/T3vd-_A-RdI/AAAAAAAABQ0/0X2EJI_GQcg/s320/DSC_0060.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It had dorms, houses, large gathering rooms for classes, a giant cafeteria and buildings big enough for the hundreds of women like me who were going to art camp. <a href="http://www.parks.wa.gov/fortworden/">http://www.parks.wa.gov/fortworden/</a><br />
The first night they welcomed us all and I got to witness a live proposal....how exciting is that?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fs5LHvUipFU/T3vXQiqck7I/AAAAAAAABPk/6wB57shxd_U/s1600/DSC_0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fs5LHvUipFU/T3vXQiqck7I/AAAAAAAABPk/6wB57shxd_U/s320/DSC_0027.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>she said yes! The next day was art class with Jesse Reno. He is extremely artistic and wildly different from me stylistically. Here is an example of his work.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTkCvlJ7Jck/T3vXzKemQwI/AAAAAAAABPs/-9ldxZZQ12g/s1600/jesse_reno1_20081119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTkCvlJ7Jck/T3vXzKemQwI/AAAAAAAABPs/-9ldxZZQ12g/s320/jesse_reno1_20081119.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>but he taught me how to keep adding layers upon layers and keep working on something until it shows itself.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5cnA2F8a_I/T3vep8PBj_I/AAAAAAAABRE/TIB48ta9nTc/s1600/DSC_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5cnA2F8a_I/T3vep8PBj_I/AAAAAAAABRE/TIB48ta9nTc/s320/DSC_0031.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> I stretched. This is the first piece I came up with.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6MOwmbxJHWI/T3vYJ89qChI/AAAAAAAABP0/Y0Dx60hbf-U/s1600/DSC_0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6MOwmbxJHWI/T3vYJ89qChI/AAAAAAAABP0/Y0Dx60hbf-U/s320/DSC_0044.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>He had us draw five eyes and connect them, and do all kinds of things to open up. I had never done anything like it before and that is how we grow. Then that night there was a bonfire at the beach with art journaling in the nearby shelter. This was one of my favorite memories.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3B4l2pYOwB4/T3vYt62qGxI/AAAAAAAABP8/AgG_furb6z4/s1600/DSC_0086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3B4l2pYOwB4/T3vYt62qGxI/AAAAAAAABP8/AgG_furb6z4/s320/DSC_0086.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Adeola was a kick, and she had fun wearing my tutu and taking pictures. I don't usually meet someone who takes MORE pictures than me. She did. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1P965glQJ-E/T3vZO0EAYpI/AAAAAAAABQE/Qtmoaja9pY8/s1600/DSC_0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1P965glQJ-E/T3vZO0EAYpI/AAAAAAAABQE/Qtmoaja9pY8/s320/DSC_0106.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I laughed at how many, we would walk a step and take a picture...I met all these wonderful women, who all opened themselves, shared supplies and laughed together...Art has a way of uniting women without competing that inspires me. Day 2 was Jesse again, doing two more paintings. stepping outside our comfort zones and looking for symbols and imagery in our 'mess'. These are my 3 paintings from his class, as yet unfinished.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iklZdCLh1vU/T3vaEyI5NFI/AAAAAAAABQM/nKijP_Iu4AM/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iklZdCLh1vU/T3vaEyI5NFI/AAAAAAAABQM/nKijP_Iu4AM/s320/DSC_0020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>really different for me. Loved it. That night was the artist gallery and all my favorite artists were selling their work. It was so crazy to see them live after seeing their work on facebook, I truly had a hard time absorbing it. I debated on splurging on original works, and ended up just getting a couple small things. Good girl. The next day was my birthday and last day of Artfest. Saved the best for last, and Misty was all that I hoped for. Sweet and mellow, so easy to talk to, I felt like I was in a dream when I saw her paint her demo and then play her awesome soundtrack while we painted. When life is just that good it is challenging for me to chill and take it in, I am buzzing like a hummingbird..then I get a painting from Misty, for my birthday. What? I mean how can it just keep getting better? I bought one so now I have two Misty originals to grace my walls. They are so much more special now that I have met her then if I bought them online. She paints like she is, which is beauty and grace. She humored me with a tutu picture or two too...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Syn58AvsDJg/T3vb9trou0I/AAAAAAAABQU/0-6JOv-Dy2o/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Syn58AvsDJg/T3vb9trou0I/AAAAAAAABQU/0-6JOv-Dy2o/s320/DSC_0006.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> birthday girls<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kt_NJuaQzkw/T3vcALE9k6I/AAAAAAAABQc/k59oKbP9AP8/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kt_NJuaQzkw/T3vcALE9k6I/AAAAAAAABQc/k59oKbP9AP8/s320/DSC_0013.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> who could it be? none other than Misty Mawn..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vTiTeV4eOJg/T3vcCruOWUI/AAAAAAAABQk/9Ub-Zd5AjCs/s1600/DSC_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vTiTeV4eOJg/T3vcCruOWUI/AAAAAAAABQk/9Ub-Zd5AjCs/s320/DSC_0018.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>come to find out her birthday was the very next day!! so connected. After all that excitement it was show and tell where everyone put out the art they made and we all walked around and saw the stellar work produced at this event. Mind blowing. I am eliminating so many pictures and so many details as I am just too pooped to share them all. Another gem of a girl was Miss Charlotte. She made her wig and don't just think it matches my pink tutu perfectly? She was thrilled to wear it, and pranced all over the grounds twirling, making everyone happy. She was meant to have it and it now resides with her in Canada, I know she will do amazing things with it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fXBO20743sg/T3vcorHbt4I/AAAAAAAABQs/g4N57tmGW_U/s1600/DSC_0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fXBO20743sg/T3vcorHbt4I/AAAAAAAABQs/g4N57tmGW_U/s320/DSC_0057.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>The last day was gorgeous and sunny enough to wear a semi short sleeve, we explored the town a bit, and bought fun souvenirs. I swear I could go on but this Hip Chick is still recovering from all of the hoopla. This is my Disneyland and I am so grateful to have found my people. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tKMaLRr2v6Q/T3vfZDTuvhI/AAAAAAAABRM/TGW5yPVXAwM/s1600/DSC_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tKMaLRr2v6Q/T3vfZDTuvhI/AAAAAAAABRM/TGW5yPVXAwM/s320/DSC_0075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-78153595394692787702012-03-17T23:10:00.000-07:002012-03-17T23:10:27.018-07:00Anna Corba class at Hip Chick'sToday I got to hang out with the charming Anna Corba at my shop and facilitate her workshop on journals. I admire Anna on many levels, mostly for being the real pioneer of vintage paper crafts. Anna is a gentle soul and an elegant artist, everything she makes has her distinct style. Today we had 7 lovely ladies surround the back work space and we all talked, laughed, crafted, learned and played. One of the best parts of hosting a class is taking it myself, and I have a lovely keepsake to remember the fun day. Here are some pictures to share..<br />
we had lovely snacks and roses to make our day beautiful<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pu3nM8rQiDI/T2V6K36x8HI/AAAAAAAABLY/WSDwJ08bikM/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pu3nM8rQiDI/T2V6K36x8HI/AAAAAAAABLY/WSDwJ08bikM/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> here is the lovely Anna Corba explaining the journal process<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eH4ONSK0KC0/T2V6UfX7eUI/AAAAAAAABLg/7scu3OV_Rxk/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eH4ONSK0KC0/T2V6UfX7eUI/AAAAAAAABLg/7scu3OV_Rxk/s320/DSC_0002.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are Anna and Kae, two awesome women enjoying each others company</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HJKTZFrUhIg/T2V6W7vJAPI/AAAAAAAABLo/AC3ZSa86g_o/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HJKTZFrUhIg/T2V6W7vJAPI/AAAAAAAABLo/AC3ZSa86g_o/s320/DSC_0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> here Anna is walking everyone through the waxing method<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbxr_wxKkB8/T2V6auZyqOI/AAAAAAAABLw/Lg4C6r-77j0/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbxr_wxKkB8/T2V6auZyqOI/AAAAAAAABLw/Lg4C6r-77j0/s320/DSC_0007.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> Hip Chick Carrie and Anna Corba....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mLd5mfOU0eo/T2V6dwAFbTI/AAAAAAAABL4/tCbbimr7K7I/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mLd5mfOU0eo/T2V6dwAFbTI/AAAAAAAABL4/tCbbimr7K7I/s320/DSC_0009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> our lovely group of students and the finished products<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d1N6aa08vVo/T2V6f1czzEI/AAAAAAAABMA/_dESzFqFnCE/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="174" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d1N6aa08vVo/T2V6f1czzEI/AAAAAAAABMA/_dESzFqFnCE/s320/DSC_0011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It was a glorious day and I am re-inspired to host and teach more classes. I am going to host a Tutu Tea Party in May, with all students receiving their own tutu, tea cup and art project. There are open studios May 5th and 6th so lots of fun on the horizon. Monday is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint venue and I guarantee a tutu picture with her, until then...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-54085066969305777552012-02-23T22:02:00.000-08:002012-02-23T22:02:04.701-08:00Chalk paint is my new obsessionI am addicted to chalk paint. My name is Carrie and I'm a chalkaholic. It's not a problem, YET. I think it's like a new love all exciting and fun, vibrant and fulfilling, I want to use it on everything, and I am. I can't paint fast enough, I will be painting one thing and look over and see something else and start to paint that. It's crazy. But good, therefore, it's CRAZY GOOD! I am all about seeing is believing. Here are some samples...here is a gorgeous dining room buffet before chalk paint..for those who aren't aware here is the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint link, I am a licensed retailer partner and lover of the stuff....<br />
<a href="http://www.anniesloan.com/acatalog/North_American_Stockists.html">http://www.anniesloan.com/acatalog/North_American_Stockists.html</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-obOdVaXdfq0/T0cdVpqosYI/AAAAAAAABIc/kjouheTWhuY/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-obOdVaXdfq0/T0cdVpqosYI/AAAAAAAABIc/kjouheTWhuY/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> and this is after even though it isn't finished. (I couldn't wait to show you)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wm5N13DDfUg/T0cdYwIRmRI/AAAAAAAABIk/f5XQKupGCJM/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wm5N13DDfUg/T0cdYwIRmRI/AAAAAAAABIk/f5XQKupGCJM/s320/DSC_0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> here is a close up of one section I like...this is Paris Gray with Old White with clear and dark wax.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-meSJrn8OwNQ/T0cdcHN8nWI/AAAAAAAABIs/_NBRGZbvEok/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-meSJrn8OwNQ/T0cdcHN8nWI/AAAAAAAABIs/_NBRGZbvEok/s320/DSC_0008.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> these chairs will be even more fabulous after some chalk paint...I love them already.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rV2fv6VXx8s/T0cdfA-BNxI/AAAAAAAABI0/2zml5BZeqek/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rV2fv6VXx8s/T0cdfA-BNxI/AAAAAAAABI0/2zml5BZeqek/s320/DSC_0009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> here is a mirror, mirror on the wall find before chalk paint...<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qPjTiB4AZwc/T0cdtOCSJDI/AAAAAAAABI8/_w9J8vvBT9M/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qPjTiB4AZwc/T0cdtOCSJDI/AAAAAAAABI8/_w9J8vvBT9M/s320/DSC_0001.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qyg_DkwXgBs/T0cdzAh2oPI/AAAAAAAABJM/X1tbL8kAEm0/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qyg_DkwXgBs/T0cdzAh2oPI/AAAAAAAABJM/X1tbL8kAEm0/s320/DSC_0012.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> and this is after a coat of Paris Gray..<br />
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this is after some clear and dark wax added to give it depth. I love it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZGe78G8_dY/T0cd1qm4arI/AAAAAAAABJU/CKj3B9k9IlU/s1600/DSC_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZGe78G8_dY/T0cd1qm4arI/AAAAAAAABJU/CKj3B9k9IlU/s320/DSC_0014.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> Mirror, mirror on the wall who loves chalk paint most of all???<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hVF7mWzbI9s/T0ceHAHnaLI/AAAAAAAABJc/KORyidYzm08/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hVF7mWzbI9s/T0ceHAHnaLI/AAAAAAAABJc/KORyidYzm08/s320/DSC_0017.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> that'd be Hip Chick...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ENwwoHo9ao/T0ceJZNt_pI/AAAAAAAABJk/QDwK3RvWqWU/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ENwwoHo9ao/T0ceJZNt_pI/AAAAAAAABJk/QDwK3RvWqWU/s320/DSC_0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> here is a picture of the store, the table behind the sofa is painted Louis Blue and the chairs are also chalk painted<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iGQB-DHGI6c/T0ceLlAOWmI/AAAAAAAABJs/2sP9pEPzXzg/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iGQB-DHGI6c/T0ceLlAOWmI/AAAAAAAABJs/2sP9pEPzXzg/s320/DSC_0007.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> Christine Kerr is a featured jewelry artist this month, her gorgeous one of a kind pieces are all made from copper and real gemstones...<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fT0uZp7hH84/T0cePBaAXNI/AAAAAAAABJ0/bRKT-hur22k/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fT0uZp7hH84/T0cePBaAXNI/AAAAAAAABJ0/bRKT-hur22k/s320/DSC_0009.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">this says gratitude and would make an amazing gift....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AsolzMC9e94/T0cdvxSblzI/AAAAAAAABJE/Vs-j9GeBEos/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AsolzMC9e94/T0cdvxSblzI/AAAAAAAABJE/Vs-j9GeBEos/s320/DSC_0010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> this is my back wall, my painting "White Whisperer" is a Chalk Paint original and is selling for $400.00 it has a gorgeous soft palette and of course goes wonderfully with all my chalk painted furniture...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGH2eDNeGek/T0ceS7VZhcI/AAAAAAAABKE/qmQ4RyJABfU/s1600/DSC_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGH2eDNeGek/T0ceS7VZhcI/AAAAAAAABKE/qmQ4RyJABfU/s320/DSC_0021.jpg" width="210" /></a></div> various jewelry is hanging from branches and if you peak past the branches, to your left is my chalk paint and to the right is Tokyomilk, I sell perfume, candles, soaps, with lotions and purse packs coming soon...<br />
<a href="http://www.tokyo-milk.com/">http://www.tokyo-milk.com/</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mwc650LbJaw/T0ceU9ZXcgI/AAAAAAAABKM/YGyJBFoyRFY/s1600/DSC_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mwc650LbJaw/T0ceU9ZXcgI/AAAAAAAABKM/YGyJBFoyRFY/s320/DSC_0025.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> here are some angels playing music for us and some french text for collage or art projects...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fw71CD_uG8M/T0ceXCkhPkI/AAAAAAAABKU/o3L-3INyZao/s1600/DSC_0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fw71CD_uG8M/T0ceXCkhPkI/AAAAAAAABKU/o3L-3INyZao/s320/DSC_0026.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> my ribbon lamp made from hand tie dyed ribbon<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XFyxOTMbYXk/T0ceZsAEkKI/AAAAAAAABKc/hb3397nj1PM/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XFyxOTMbYXk/T0ceZsAEkKI/AAAAAAAABKc/hb3397nj1PM/s320/DSC_0035.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I have been so busy playing with my paint I nary have time for anything else...but I thought I had better do a blog post to keep you all up to date on what's going on at the shop. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aCFTpOQLgb0/T0clAsUqi7I/AAAAAAAABKk/rnvvFVOZ_OE/s1600/anna+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aCFTpOQLgb0/T0clAsUqi7I/AAAAAAAABKk/rnvvFVOZ_OE/s320/anna+2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> We have the amazing Anna Corba coming on March 17th to teach a class and sign her latest book, if you would like to join the fun email me at carrieclay@yahoo.com. </span><a href="http://www.hipchickdesignsca.com/Art-Classes.html" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">http://www.hipchickdesignsca.com/Art-Classes.html</a><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Anna Corba is the pioneer of vintage crafts and one of the most charming women I know..this is Anna's project, she will teach us how to make our own vintage journal. </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8F-hq3XPG8/T0clBERYo5I/AAAAAAAABKs/rM0lrnXaSrc/s1600/anna+corba.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8F-hq3XPG8/T0clBERYo5I/AAAAAAAABKs/rM0lrnXaSrc/s320/anna+corba.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>That's all for now, there is always so much to share and I am feeling so grateful for the chalk paint and Art is...and Anna and mostly that I get to do my thing and see that others like it too. Thank you for all your support and love, it fuels me daily.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-88482618096830868402012-01-31T22:04:00.000-08:002012-01-31T22:04:44.581-08:00Art is....coming to the Arsenal in September!I have been so busy trying to come up with a killer class for Art Is.....I can't believe they are coming to the Arsenal, and I GET TO TEACH A CLASS! I mean what?! Seriously, I just dreamed it only recently and now here it is coming true. One thing I know for sure, if you try, really try, for your dreams then they can come true. First you have to figure out what you want. Then you gotta take action towards it. It's been my experience that if you are in action, and you want it, then the universe responds. It's like it's listening. (mental note-good art idea) I only went to my first art retreat EVER last fall, it was "Spark the Event" in Salt Lake City Utah <a href="http://www.sparktheevent.com/">http://www.sparktheevent.com/</a> and it did more than spark me. It lite an inferno! I was on freakin' fire after that, realizing that's what I want to do, TEACH ART WORKSHOPS. What could be better?<br />
But how? well, first I had make a lot of art. Art I liked, art I was proud of. But before I even tried to get "good enough" it was presented to me! Holy Moly! Long story short my friend Sharon Payne Bolton (talented bionic artist) went to Art is last year and met the head honchos, talked about how the Arsenal in Benicia would be so ideal for classes, and before we know it, they agreed! It all thanks to Sharon <a href="http://www.sharonpaynebolton.com/">http://www.sharonpaynebolton.com/</a>, and her amazingness, and I just happen to be lucky enough to ride this wave too. Now I have less than a week to come up with a two day workshop worthy of Art is. NO pressure.....haha. Seriously it's terrifying. But one thing I am good at is seizing an opportunity. And this one is a doozie. So I am madly making wings as my theme. I think there is serious wing appeal happening as wings have so much symbolism. I looked up what do wings symbolize and found this...<br />
<a href="http://www.whats-your-sign.com/meaning-of-wings.html">http://www.whats-your-sign.com/meaning-of-wings.html</a><br />
Winged Humans: "<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Angels, of course. They are divine liaisons. They are messengers with the ability to move freely from the realm of earth-bound matter to the unlimited heavens. They're depicted with human attributes, and so we reason they have </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">human interest at heart</b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">. They are gifted with magic and flight, they are creatures of the divine."</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I know they are popular in mixed media. Everyone puts wings on their art, and I admit it's addicting. It just gives an image an extra special ability. Instead of being simply mortal they can be fairies, angels, butterflies, and birds. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">One of my favorite artists is Misty Mawn, you can find her here <a href="http://mistymawn.typepad.com/">http://mistymawn.typepad.com/</a> she uses wings in much of her work....here are just a few examples</span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WagqpbSVjks/TyjN7bta0hI/AAAAAAAABHg/VFEa-64rsPE/s1600/misty+mawn+hwa+web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WagqpbSVjks/TyjN7bta0hI/AAAAAAAABHg/VFEa-64rsPE/s320/misty+mawn+hwa+web.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tf_4N6Mmndo/TyjN7uhNXgI/AAAAAAAABHo/Rzd4qgNuRAQ/s1600/misty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tf_4N6Mmndo/TyjN7uhNXgI/AAAAAAAABHo/Rzd4qgNuRAQ/s320/misty.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLc9hpgmBrs/TyjN8DDWANI/AAAAAAAABHw/azrUdtpNWlw/s1600/red+misty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLc9hpgmBrs/TyjN8DDWANI/AAAAAAAABHw/azrUdtpNWlw/s320/red+misty.jpg" width="277" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I just love her style, and lucky me I get to meet her at Artfest in March. This is Artfest: <a href="http://www.teeshamoore.com/artfest/classes.html">http://www.teeshamoore.com/artfest/classes.html</a>. She is teaching a portrait class ON MY BIRTHDAY! Another dream come true....I tell you, it's crazy. I will also be taking a class from Jesse Reno, he is hugely popular, and wildly imaginative. Here is his website to check out: <a href="http://jessereno.com/art/">http://jessereno.com/art/</a>, and I will show examples of his work which all happen to have wings in them..</span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZ7O1ePhaPE/TyjPpPZozDI/AAAAAAAABH4/s1eZSmtWBRk/s1600/+jesse+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZ7O1ePhaPE/TyjPpPZozDI/AAAAAAAABH4/s1eZSmtWBRk/s320/+jesse+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WHy4uMRjtbI/TyjPqq-8wyI/AAAAAAAABIA/em5o6PpiEKc/s1600/jesse+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WHy4uMRjtbI/TyjPqq-8wyI/AAAAAAAABIA/em5o6PpiEKc/s320/jesse+1.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EUkUaOQ06vk/TyjPrMMfuZI/AAAAAAAABII/qURB-PQAWAM/s1600/jesse+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EUkUaOQ06vk/TyjPrMMfuZI/AAAAAAAABII/qURB-PQAWAM/s320/jesse+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">These two artists have extremely different styles obviously. I am taking Jesse's class to see how far I can loosen up and try something different. I am challenging myself, so I can grow, learn and develop as an artist. That doesn't happen staying safe and content making the same thing. Right now I am like a sponge, soaking it all up, and just making whatever I can, whenever I can. Rarely does a day go by without making something, I don't really love anything I make to be honest. I know I can do so much more, and it's really hard to impress ourselves. But that's good too, because it drives us to keep at it. Even when it's frustrating (which it is more than isn't) and even when it's crap (which it is more than it isn't) we yearn for the masterpiece. We wait for it to present itself. </span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I am impatiently waiting this week for my class masterpiece to present itself. I have the tick tock of the clock at my back and I am slapping plaster, wax, acrylic, pencil, ribbon, glue, twigs, feathers, and wood together to come up with a finished product that looks good. All I can do is my best, and I sure am giving it my all. I appreciate you taking the time to check in on what's happening with Hip Chick, I will share the finished product soon, and after this week I get to learn the in's and out's and techniques of chalk paint. This is another new technique I am adding to my repertoire. Here is Annie Sloan's link to check out : </span><a href="http://www.anniesloan.com/index.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">http://www.anniesloan.com/index.html</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> I simply LOVE chalk paint and love having it to play with at the shop...</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkVFBDTp3NA/TyjTEmmbmCI/AAAAAAAABIQ/sqArxF_VRY8/s1600/chalk+paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkVFBDTp3NA/TyjTEmmbmCI/AAAAAAAABIQ/sqArxF_VRY8/s320/chalk+paint.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Here is one example of how chalk paint gives a piece depth, and warmth unlike regular latex paint. The colors are simply delicious. More on that later. For now it's bedtime. I have more wings and things to play with tomorrow, this creative is flying to slumberville....sweet dreams my friends. </span></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-3814859434557220602012-01-12T08:26:00.000-08:002012-01-12T08:26:14.910-08:00Horses are the latest thingWell it's a new year and this is my first blog post of 2012. I thought I would blog more often this year, but I usually blog when I have something to share. So today I am sharing my latest painting in it's phases and sharing how it came about. I have a love/hate relationship with horses. I love how majestic they are, how bold and free their spirits are, and yet I hate riding them. The reason why is, I have had MANY bad experiences riding horses, and mostly due to the fact I don't have a clue how to 'show them I'm the boss'. Therefore they always take advantage of me. But when I am not attempting to ride them I really appreciate them and have a cowgirl vibe about me that one would think comes from me being a horse girl. Wrong. I just dress the part, cowboy hat, cowboy boots, and such but just don't ask me to actually get on one of these babies...just let me stand there and look good. Anyway, that is just my funny relationship to these beautiful animals and I decided to try to paint one after I was inspired by a beautiful photograph I saw online. The horse has flowing long hair and the background is so serene it just beckoned me to paint it. I used my new "Annie Sloan" chalk paint for the first time as the palette is muted and I wanted to see how it performed on canvas. I really liked it. Here is the painting in it's various stages...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ItG0Zq_K_n0/Tw8F9rN62NI/AAAAAAAABGo/aLoOhBVNMj4/s1600/horse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ItG0Zq_K_n0/Tw8F9rN62NI/AAAAAAAABGo/aLoOhBVNMj4/s320/horse.jpg" width="213" /></a></div> this is the image I was inspired by...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ozEQfw6DZ88/Tw8GBOkblII/AAAAAAAABGw/_Gg2x8719BE/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ozEQfw6DZ88/Tw8GBOkblII/AAAAAAAABGw/_Gg2x8719BE/s320/DSC_0001.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> the sketch..<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RUUIXX141b0/Tw8GFw7u8oI/AAAAAAAABG4/oFZ79JWz5D8/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RUUIXX141b0/Tw8GFw7u8oI/AAAAAAAABG4/oFZ79JWz5D8/s320/DSC_0001.jpg" width="214" /></a></div> first layer....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6zAu2augRIE/Tw8GKyIPkhI/AAAAAAAABHA/Dm0VGtbYS08/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6zAu2augRIE/Tw8GKyIPkhI/AAAAAAAABHA/Dm0VGtbYS08/s320/DSC_0004.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div> more layers..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1zDqmmFIf9M/Tw8GnhWMpBI/AAAAAAAABHQ/-0ZH1io_ems/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1zDqmmFIf9M/Tw8GnhWMpBI/AAAAAAAABHQ/-0ZH1io_ems/s320/DSC_0017.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div>and the finished painting...</div><div><br />
</div><div>I called this "White Whisperer" and I really like it. Its one I could look at for along time and just breathe in. I am going to submit it to Arts Benicia today for the "Art of a community" show they are having soon. Now I am thinking of doing a horse series. Among other things, I am also interested in doing an ocean series, a portrait series and so on....but this is what is current for me today. I am enrolled in so many online art classes I can't possibly keep up with them all, even when it's my full time passion and I can devote most of my time to it. I have overextended myself with too many classes. But I have accepted that I won't get it all done (difficult as this is) and I do what I can in the time I have. The good news is it's all art, all the time. The more I do, the better I get. win-win. I still struggle with finding my voice, my unique style, but if I just keep doing the work it will reveal itself to me. It's important to just go with it and see where it leads. Thanks for checking in on me and I love to hear from you.....happy painting!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-17501611394265471952011-12-26T22:55:00.000-08:002011-12-26T22:55:10.769-08:00"Reach"-my word for 2012I lay in bed, cozy and comfy. It's my favorite place to fill up my juices. I am grateful for all the holiday celebrations, and ready to look ahead to the New Year. Recently, I read a post about how to find a word for the New Year to emulate what you want to focus on, and thought, "I should do that".<br />
Here is the link for those who care to read it...<a href="http://quinncreative.wordpress.com/2011/12/08/choosing-your-word/">http://quinncreative.wordpress.com/2011/12/08/choosing-your-word/</a> So after much thinking I came up with the word "REACH". This painting will be my Reach inspiration, I barely started it and will share it's development as it evolves...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_MTQx0Ky0A/Tvi9fE-aT5I/AAAAAAAABF4/9nWnlIRakXA/s1600/DSC_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_MTQx0Ky0A/Tvi9fE-aT5I/AAAAAAAABF4/9nWnlIRakXA/s320/DSC_0057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
and tonight I did this one with my new pan pastel I got for Christmas...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGoG3PNqODc/TvlaKZk-IVI/AAAAAAAABGE/kXJLzjnPBpI/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGoG3PNqODc/TvlaKZk-IVI/AAAAAAAABGE/kXJLzjnPBpI/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" width="201" /></a></div><br />
It feels like what I am going to be about next year. I want to reach further and higher, to stretch myself to my fullest capacity. I even treated myself to some help. I am going to be working with Tiffany Moore of Teahouse studios, to help me structure and nurture my goals for the upcoming year. <a href="http://www.tiffanymoore.net/">http://www.tiffanymoore.net/</a> This is a giant step for me, to have someone help me fine tune my goals. I have never done this before and I am really excited. It's so easy for me to have art ADD and want to do this, and that and then flitter all about and not get anywhere. With help I am hoping to implement a more strategic way to get where I want to go. Even knowing exactly where I want to go is hard, but I have some lofty goals, and while I am moving towards them I know it will become more known to me where I am supposed to go. That's what always happens. When I am in action the universe responds. Usually very generously. It's the getting going that can be the challenge, and in which direction. So instead of bumbling about like I tend to do, I am hiring a guide. How lovely, to not have to figure everything out on my own!! Yay. <br />
I am also treating myself to some delicious inspirational reading, I can't recommend this enough! "Succulent Wild Woman" by SARK. I am devouring it, bite by delicious bite. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Succulent-Wild-Woman-Sark/dp/068483376X">http://www.amazon.com/Succulent-Wild-Woman-Sark/dp/068483376X</a> It is a feast for my creative senses, in every way. Visually stimulating, emotionally engaging, and highly motivating. I read a few pages everyday to start my engines, she is so inspirational. Here's just a sample of what I mean...<br />
<br />
"All my life, I've heard that I'm too much. Too wild, too outrageous, too emotional, too sensitive, too needy, TOO MUCH. " <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tEfhttLcrxc/TvlexvuxWsI/AAAAAAAABGQ/f65RCkJ6xmU/s1600/Wild+Women+_1951_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tEfhttLcrxc/TvlexvuxWsI/AAAAAAAABGQ/f65RCkJ6xmU/s320/Wild+Women+_1951_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>"Living wild has consequences. Welcome to these and learn from them. PLEASE GIVE YOURSELF TOO MANY GIFTS! "<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lXHxCTBmmeo/TvleyHc9bUI/AAAAAAAABGY/ddtYTSe3O-I/s1600/wild+women+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lXHxCTBmmeo/TvleyHc9bUI/AAAAAAAABGY/ddtYTSe3O-I/s320/wild+women+old.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><br />
"We have the right to live wild, succulent lives. right now open your window and yell at the top of your lungs "I'm here1 I'm wild! I will live a daring and remarkable life! "<br />
scary huh...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYXFwgFCvnU/Tvleyapn-II/AAAAAAAABGg/hgfuPDOzdHM/s1600/wild+women.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYXFwgFCvnU/Tvleyapn-II/AAAAAAAABGg/hgfuPDOzdHM/s320/wild+women.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I have really only started this book and there is so much MEAT to it I don't do it justice. I encourage you to read it, do what she says and treat yourself. I have been doing this lately and I am loving it. It feels good, and am I harming anyone? NO, am I making us go broke? NO, am I giving myself what I need? YES! hip hip hooray!! It's kind of hard isn't it to really dote on ourselves, we are so used to being martyrs that it's actually EASIER to deprive ourselves then treat ourselves. Now I can't speak for you of course, maybe you are already a succulent wild woman who completely, utterly loves herself and treats herself like the queen that you are. if so, GOOD FOR YOU! You are awesome. Personally I don't know that many women who do this. And I know a lot of women, and very strong, talented women at that. Even me, a tutu dancing, artist has a hard time totally indulging myself. I am learning, and I learn form those who show me how. I look to the women who "lead by example". <br />
So I think 2012 is going to be a big growth year, and I intend on reaching and stretching myself as far as I can. Here's how....<br />
I want to try new things, go on adventures with people I love and by myself, grow artistically, improve in my business, meet new friends and play with those who can, love deeply and often, laugh daily, pause when agitated, SLOW DOWN and quit being so impatient all the time, shush my critic and encourage myself instead, be kind, be silly, be TOO MUCH, be creative, dance and sing and eat good food, sleep a lot, and exercise, feed my spirit with spiritual food, be in nature often, see great movies and eat popcorn, have passionate sex, massages and pedicures, explore towns I have never been to, talk to strangers and take classes, take tons of pictures and absorb the world as a wondrous, glorious place, swim in tropical waters with turtles and eat fresh mangoes, try a new art retreat and learn new techniques, have artist dates with myself and marvel at the limitless possibilities of creativity, love myself more and stop being so critical, go to flea markets often and find amazing treasure, learn how to build things, paint often and not care what it's for, spend less time on facebook and more time with real people, do nice things for those I care about, and even those I don't know, reach and stretch and grow beyond what I can even think of, and most of all be grateful.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-6166711331495077862011-12-01T08:27:00.000-08:002011-12-01T08:27:28.805-08:00Tracy Verdugo Interview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ooytynR5yE/TteoRfCJukI/AAAAAAAABEo/n5wJh5y2HFA/s1600/mumstudio_sm.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ooytynR5yE/TteoRfCJukI/AAAAAAAABEo/n5wJh5y2HFA/s320/mumstudio_sm.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Tracy Verdugo and I have never met before but I feel like I know her thanks to facebook. She lives down under in Australia, a place I long to go, so we wouldn't meet ordinarily, were it not for our facebook connection. I found out that she is coming here to the USA next year so we will meet in person at "Art is"<br />
<a href="http://www.art-is-you.com/mysitecaddy/site3/events-westcoast.htm">http://www.art-is-you.com/mysitecaddy/site3/events-westcoast.htm</a>, I can't wait. I chat with her on facebook from time to time and asked her if she would do my 5 question interview. Being the sweetie that she is, she agreed. Without further adieu here it is..<br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">1.How long have you been making art?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The journey into finding my creative voice really coincided with my journey into motherhood. There is something so empowering and awe inspiring about bringing a precious life into this world so I guess it’s not surprising that shortly after the birth of our first daughter Santana 18 years ago I sat down with half a dozen tubes of cheap acrylic paint and with my beautiful girl asleep next to me, painted my first two little paintings. I was so proud of my first attempts and felt the seeds of something amazing stir. Around the same time I also found the courage to share my voice. I had sung my whole life but very rarely in front of an audience as my performance anxiety was overwhelming. With the loving support of my husband Marco I progressed from singing just with him to performing on stage over a three year period. Currently we are in the studio working on our third album release, this time with our band The Long Goodbyes.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwy7BDdcRwk/Tteo0ehKeuI/AAAAAAAABEw/oUR91j70JOs/s1600/1shefeltthepotentialofaworldyettobeborn_com_sm1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwy7BDdcRwk/Tteo0ehKeuI/AAAAAAAABEw/oUR91j70JOs/s1600/1shefeltthepotentialofaworldyettobeborn_com_sm1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"She felt the potential"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">2.How long did it take for you to find your unique style?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In 2002 I held my first solo exhibition inspired by our travels in Mexico where many of Marco’s family lives. My first works were described as colorful, vibrant and joyful so I guess in some ways I fell into my own unique style early. In other ways however as my skill level has increased and my spiritual journey has unfolded my work has morphed and I find myself often painting now in a much more intuitive, playful and soulful way, searching for meaning in my work as it progresses and then building layers of exploration upon that.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cDavk-KznFI/Tteo64CmaUI/AAAAAAAABE4/lmFwB-y2gRY/s1600/loveliveshere1_com_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cDavk-KznFI/Tteo64CmaUI/AAAAAAAABE4/lmFwB-y2gRY/s1600/loveliveshere1_com_sm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Love lives here"</td></tr>
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">3.Do you consider yourself successful?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It has been a long journey, 18 years now since I first picked up a brush, difficult times and wonderful times and many times where I forgot about my creative self completely.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In the last year however something big has shifted in my own perception of what is possible and many doors have begun to open. 2012 is looking incredibly, almost unbelievably, and a little bit scarily, amazing as my dream of travelling the world teaching and inspiring others to honor and unleash their own creative beauty begins to unfold.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In January our whole family will travel to the enchanting island of Koh Samui, Thailand where I have been asked to judge a major mural competition, teach and hold my first international exhibition thanks to my gorgeous friend Michelle Ho who is organising these events. All commissions from the sale of my paintings will go to the Dog and Cat rescue centre on the island where our animal loving 14 year old daughter Sienna will volunteer for several days while we are there.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In March I will teach at the wonderful retreat “Art Is” in Sydney and then in September I will fly to the U.S to join the Art Is family again in California and Connecticut. I will also be teaching at the spectacular Sweet Freedom Retreat in Missouri and Hacienda Mosaico in Puerto Vallarta. Other wonderful online friends have offered to help me organise workshops in Texas, California, Georgia, Florida, Canada and Hawaii and I’m doing my best to be able to fit in all of this wonderment during the five months we will be in the U.S.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I am also thrilled to be one of the teachers in Tamara Laportes online extravaganza LifeBook which will run through the whole of 2012. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Br6l6G2F6Sc/TtepeVOS0sI/AAAAAAAABFA/fQ5u_iR2HkY/s1600/1Awakening_the_Muse_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Br6l6G2F6Sc/TtepeVOS0sI/AAAAAAAABFA/fQ5u_iR2HkY/s1600/1Awakening_the_Muse_sm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Awakening the Muse"</td></tr>
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">4.Where do you get your ideas?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="" name="_GoBack"></a>Ideas and inspiration bombard me continuously and come from many different sources, the small details, the big picture, a poem, a color, a memory, snippets of text cut out of old books. Inspiration overload can sometimes be just as paralyzing as a lack of inspiration as I sometimes struggle to find a starting point with so many ideas flying around in my head.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y7HlP9XNWHY/Ttepm58GZYI/AAAAAAAABFI/2rzEpuLhUL8/s1600/1Concept_and_Creation_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y7HlP9XNWHY/Ttepm58GZYI/AAAAAAAABFI/2rzEpuLhUL8/s1600/1Concept_and_Creation_sm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Concept and Creation"</td></tr>
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">5.Do you have a loud critic at your back? If so how do you manage it?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I still occasionally have to deal with my inner critic but I’ve learnt (for the most part) to turn the volume down. I imagine it as the voice of a well-meaning relative who thinks they know what’s best for me but is acting out of their own very different perspective. I also find that staying in balance physically and emotionally, getting enough sleep and treating my body well also helps me to focus clearly and keep emotions of doubt and fear at bay.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Gratitude has also played a huge part in my creative journey. Our family takes a moment each night before we eat to tell each other the things that we are grateful for that day. The more I find to be grateful for the more I realize just how much there is and this awareness helps me to move through the world in a more wholehearted way.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Find me here <span style="font-family: Wingdings, serif;"></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">My blog <a href="http://artoftracyverdugo.blogspot.com/">http://artoftracyverdugo.blogspot.com</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Our music <a href="http://www.myspace.com/theloooooooonggoodbyes">www.myspace.com/theloooooooonggoodbyes</a> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tracy.verdugo">https://www.facebook.com/tracy.verdugo</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rEJg4COWNQ/Ttepymj8SJI/AAAAAAAABFQ/6gzleNssX80/s1600/ww_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rEJg4COWNQ/Ttepymj8SJI/AAAAAAAABFQ/6gzleNssX80/s1600/ww_sm.jpg" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-77111126611788396262011-11-21T10:33:00.000-08:002011-11-21T10:39:21.466-08:00RestoreandreworkYesterday I went to Restoreandrework, <a href="http://www.restoreandrework.com/">http://www.restoreandrework.com/</a>, in Castro Valley, a hidden gem, owned and operated by Cisco Diaz. I met Cisco about 6 months ago at the Treasure Island flea market, he has wonderful vintage items at good prices, so naturally I was hooked. He is as nice as can be, warm and friendly and we chatted about antiques and business. Since then I have seen him at various locations (he gets around), namely the Alameda antique fair <a href="http://alamedapointantiquesfaire.com/">http://alamedapointantiquesfaire.com/</a> and vintage sales in town. He has a knack for display and I love his combination of jars, baskets, containers and treasure. Here we are in front of his store yesterday<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o45v4FszyNk/TsqSIFLhxKI/AAAAAAAABCg/5i0POUFmn5A/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o45v4FszyNk/TsqSIFLhxKI/AAAAAAAABCg/5i0POUFmn5A/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I needed mason jars to make Joy Jars and he has plenty....I bought a lot...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_iaUdB78ot0/TsqSyYpilFI/AAAAAAAABDY/UNYrGT10sao/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_iaUdB78ot0/TsqSyYpilFI/AAAAAAAABDY/UNYrGT10sao/s320/DSC_0010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Giant Joy Jars for people like me who use their Jars so much they need to keep upgrading to bigger and bigger jars...these will be transformed by Hip Chick and you can buy them at my store or online for a great holiday gift. I will talk more about these later...back to Cisco's awesome store...I did a quickie interview while we were packing up my goodies...<br />
"When did you start your business?" Cisco said, "June 2010. I was unemployed. I couldn't find a job. I decided to build some things, and I built my first birdhouse..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvKF1U0xhqU/TsqUZd-M28I/AAAAAAAABEA/sX83eIdE36s/s1600/RestoreRework_033.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvKF1U0xhqU/TsqUZd-M28I/AAAAAAAABEA/sX83eIdE36s/s320/RestoreRework_033.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>then I built another, a bench, an table, and next thing I knew I had 40 things to sell, so I went to the local Castro Valley farmers market and sold my first item. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xb-jhAK1UpA/TsqU7M9GRGI/AAAAAAAABEI/kvbYL4a7LXI/s1600/garden+bench+048.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xb-jhAK1UpA/TsqU7M9GRGI/AAAAAAAABEI/kvbYL4a7LXI/s320/garden+bench+048.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Then from there I did other farmers markets. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8yo3GymYbyA/TsqVItGn8OI/AAAAAAAABEQ/DLpGS6rnfAg/s1600/DSCF3670.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8yo3GymYbyA/TsqVItGn8OI/AAAAAAAABEQ/DLpGS6rnfAg/s320/DSCF3670.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>people said , You should do "Alameda", so I baby stepped with smaller venues first. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldwBiirHKAM/TsqVemD3KwI/AAAAAAAABEY/me7ADUOVVpg/s1600/garden+bench+021.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldwBiirHKAM/TsqVemD3KwI/AAAAAAAABEY/me7ADUOVVpg/s320/garden+bench+021.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>I went to the DeAnza flea market, and did some vintage shows, the Treasure Island Flea and finally "Alameda" 8 months ago. His spot if F27 for those who go frequently (like me)...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-wrpRTAja0/TsqV7vMo8fI/AAAAAAAABEg/Pbhwdw9fbro/s1600/barn+finds+004.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-wrpRTAja0/TsqV7vMo8fI/AAAAAAAABEg/Pbhwdw9fbro/s320/barn+finds+004.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Various items Cisco collects</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I asked him, "Do you love what you do?" and he said, "I wish I would've started before, I was a mortgage wholesale representative and now I love the freedom to do what I want. I love the creativity to make new things from previously used old things. I love the interaction with people. The big shows keep that alive."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cisco can be found at the Alameda antique on the first Sunday of every month at F27, at the Treasure Island flea market on the last weekend of every month, <a href="http://www.treasureislandflea.com/">http://www.treasureislandflea.com/</a>, and at his new shop in Castro Valley open the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9-6. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Restoreandrework/120073454752702?sk=wall">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Restoreandrework/120073454752702?sk=wall</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">He has a facebook page, which is this link and could use some support, he is going to quickly get it, I can tell you, his place sings with charm. Here are some pictures of his new store in Castro Valley...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbQJ6MXCtiY/TsqSKtvDLwI/AAAAAAAABCo/aY2UZ7sKzl8/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbQJ6MXCtiY/TsqSKtvDLwI/AAAAAAAABCo/aY2UZ7sKzl8/s320/DSC_0004.jpg" width="290" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">there is so much to see, everywhere you look there is treasure..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsBB92xn0zg/TsqSQE-qfWI/AAAAAAAABCw/ogC873avHrU/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsBB92xn0zg/TsqSQE-qfWI/AAAAAAAABCw/ogC873avHrU/s320/DSC_0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love all the rusty pieces mixed with useful jars, and boxes..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6RldD9fUANw/TsqSpY0dggI/AAAAAAAABDQ/Nm8Js-CG6PI/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6RldD9fUANw/TsqSpY0dggI/AAAAAAAABDQ/Nm8Js-CG6PI/s320/DSC_0009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got the killer candle holder and it sits on my bedroom vanity, thanks Cisco! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBZYsyhmJCI/TsqSituEYCI/AAAAAAAABDI/OTqFXLte1Jc/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBZYsyhmJCI/TsqSituEYCI/AAAAAAAABDI/OTqFXLte1Jc/s320/DSC_0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">charming rusty bike mixed with frames, boxes, candelabras and vintage frogs...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love supporting other people doing what they love, and Cisco is good people. I know we will be doing business together in the future and if you live in the area you should check him out. You will find yourself leaving with a smile and some treasure, what more could you ask for??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-41312724800576679832011-11-18T09:23:00.000-08:002011-11-18T09:24:44.442-08:00Free Pet Portrait for the Holidays!I am giving away a free custom pet portrait for the Holidays and the lucky winner could be YOU! Do you love your pet? Do you know someone else who LOVES their pet? Then you are eligible. All you need to do is email me your name and why you love your pet to carrieclay@yahoo.com. You are entered to win. The lucky winner will be announced December 1, 2011. They will receive a custom pet portrait of their choice just in time for the holidays. I have been enjoying painting pets so much lately that I felt it would be in the spirit of giving to provide a lucky winner this heartfelt prize. The best part about painting people's pets is how happy they are with the results. I love seeing people's faces light up when they see their beloved animal on canvas and that is why I offer pet portraits for a service. This is valued at $150.00 so it's a real treat for someone to win. Here are some recent portraits I did for a client who had a whole family of dogs<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5dNPNU8Cm0/TsaTE8gw1YI/AAAAAAAABCY/Vqlqv_1YQz0/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5dNPNU8Cm0/TsaTE8gw1YI/AAAAAAAABCY/Vqlqv_1YQz0/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I have painted many animals and more can be found on my website if you are interested. Here is the link.<br />
<a href="http://www.hipchickdesignsca.com/Art.html"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.hipchickdesignsca.com/Art.html">http://www.hipchickdesignsca.com/Art.html</a><br />
My favorite pose for a portrait is close up and personal. If you can get the animal to show it's personality that makes it really special. I started painting pets after I painted my own dog, Chester. He is a German Shepherd/Poodle mix with lots of wild hair. He was such fun to paint that I thought "hmmm, pet portraits.." and that was that. The winner will also get their portrait and story featured on my blog, so don't even think of passing on this fun opportunity! What's better then free?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-62344630366944765662011-11-13T20:36:00.000-08:002011-11-13T20:40:13.267-08:00"Jane" my portrait painting and it's progression<div style="width:480px; text-align: center;"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" src="http://w854.photobucket.com/pbwidget.swf?pbwurl=http%3A%2F%2Fw854.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fab108%2Fcarrieclayden%2Fa8ebe67d.pbw" height="360" width="480"><a href="http://photobucket.com/slideshows" target="_blank"><img src="http://pic.photobucket.com/slideshows/btn.gif" style="float:left;border-width: 0;" ></a><a href="http://s854.photobucket.com/albums/ab108/carrieclayden/?action=view&current=a8ebe67d.pbw" target="_blank"><img src="http://pic.photobucket.com/slideshows/btn_viewallimages.gif" style="float:left;border-width: 0;" ></a></div><br />
I am not highly skilled at portraits, quite the opposite. But the only way to get better is to practice, so I decided to take an online class from one of my favorite artists "Gritty Jane" or Jane DesRosier. Here is her link if you are interested...<br />
<a href="http://grittyjane2011.blogspot.com/">http://grittyjane2011.blogspot.com/</a><br />
She does amazing work, and I would love to be able to emulate her style. So part of the class is of course making your own portrait. This was my attempt. I called her "Jane" in honor of Gritty Jane and her style which is layers and texture mixed with paint. I am amazed at how much my portrait changed every time I worked on it. I think it's pretty good for my first attempt at this style, and the fact that I don't typically paint people. I can say that people are very challenging, there are so many components, mainly proportion. That is always a challenge for me, and really it comes back to the basics of drawing. There is no over estimating the importance of this practice. It is the back bone of all art essentially. What I tend to do is jump in without first laying down an accurate drawing. I am so excited to start painting that I jump in too quickly, thereby making more work for myself later on. But try as I might this is how I am. I have always done it, and probably always will. The good news is I choose a "forgiving" medium in acrylic paint. You can just keep going til you get it right. Watercolors were never for me due to the fact that you make your mark and it's there, if you need to move it, too bad. It's stuck and it ain't never going to move again. Oils and acrylics are so forgiving you can virtually paint an entire new subject over another and never even know it. That's for me. I can't stand being rigid when it comes to choices. I want to loosen up and paint with total abandon, and I feel like this happens after years and years and years of work. I am not there, not even close. But at least I am painting, and I am learning and I am trying. I quit art years ago after being so frustrated with my inner critic yelling at how bad I was. I challenge that critic now, I stand up to it and I say "go away, you aren't needed right now...." I am allowing myself to learn, to grow, and to try all kinds of ways to create. My biggest hurdle is ME. My critic and my expectations, if I can get past that, I am a success...I hope you enjoyed my process and if you can relate please share...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_gPcXk0CGw/TsCaNPt1kOI/AAAAAAAABCE/fKjmsZa57l0/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_gPcXk0CGw/TsCaNPt1kOI/AAAAAAAABCE/fKjmsZa57l0/s320/DSC_0003.JPG" width="264" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-53660989080435576312011-11-11T18:31:00.000-08:002011-11-11T18:31:38.514-08:00Sharon Payne Bolton-Artist at the ArsenalI met Sharon about 3 years ago when I first got my studio at the Arsenal in Benicia. I was mesmerized by her right away. She is gorgeous and talented, which can be very annoying except that she is also very humble and friendly. She does everything well. I am not exaggerating, She has more energy than anyone I have ever met. When I met her she was pregnant with Brody (who is now 2 years old), newly married and a mother to two more sons, Wyatt and Tucker. That's plenty for anyone, but she managed to carve out an art career and be an all-star sports star to top it all off. The thing that really had me in awe was how she could use power tools like a man, and build furniture. I mean really. Is there anything she CAN"T do? And while she was tending to her newborn, she was making art, and juggling a family. The funny thing about Sharon is how humble she is, she really didn't want to be interviewed. But I am very persuasive, and persistent. So without further adieu I asked her the same 5 questions I asked Sharon Tomlinson. Here they are...<br />
<br />
<div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">1. How long have you been making art?</div><div class="p2">Maybe we should ask my mom this question? I think she remembers the toys I used to make out of wood, nails, rubber bands, tape, coffee cans, etc...She probably remembers the clothes I use to make for my Barbie Dolls? Fast Forward to when I was just out of college and would have an open block of time, I always wanted to build something... so, with the help of a friend at the time, I built my first fish bench... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hbjecphfHic/Tr3ULfa-5xI/AAAAAAAABA8/ivNI4N1-Z7I/s1600/spbfish2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hbjecphfHic/Tr3ULfa-5xI/AAAAAAAABA8/ivNI4N1-Z7I/s320/spbfish2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">after I had my first son, I worked a little smaller, (woodwork mostly) furniture, etc </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nd7qgMDkyFk/Tr3UhTf6cXI/AAAAAAAABB0/mFi1-WyT9GE/s1600/spbboxes.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nd7qgMDkyFk/Tr3UhTf6cXI/AAAAAAAABB0/mFi1-WyT9GE/s320/spbboxes.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">After I had my second son I saw my first copy of Somerset Studio and it gave me the mixed media element...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1zCp1Rxww1o/Tr3Uh__feII/AAAAAAAABB8/Jxt3myqJ1-M/s1600/spbharmhse.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1zCp1Rxww1o/Tr3Uh__feII/AAAAAAAABB8/Jxt3myqJ1-M/s320/spbharmhse.jpeg" width="221" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uW9A3p9N-PA/Tr3UhJ2_waI/AAAAAAAABBs/5Yo2iM06pYo/s1600/spbbhse.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uW9A3p9N-PA/Tr3UhJ2_waI/AAAAAAAABBs/5Yo2iM06pYo/s320/spbbhse.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div><div class="p2"> </div><div class="p1">2. How long did it take for you to find your unique style?</div><div class="p1">I am still chasing my unique style (is that even possible?)... My guess it that it might be out there, it might not... I wonder what is lost on trying to be something vs. simply just <i>being</i>? I think we all have to relax and let the exchange happen... art is an exchange.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"> </div><div class="p1">3. Do you consider yourself successful?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHWxtNrMg6s/Tr3Ug9ow3CI/AAAAAAAABBk/8mENif5xl1I/s1600/DSC01974_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHWxtNrMg6s/Tr3Ug9ow3CI/AAAAAAAABBk/8mENif5xl1I/s1600/DSC01974_2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Successful? hmmmm... I wonder when that happens? I really believe that I have a long way to go but I have come a long way too. I have some pretty lofty goals and now that I think about it, I have actually met some of them.. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jhdTHrgB2tk/Tr3UYuxl5YI/AAAAAAAABBE/Ab0LyB9CqpY/s1600/DSC02487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jhdTHrgB2tk/Tr3UYuxl5YI/AAAAAAAABBE/Ab0LyB9CqpY/s1600/DSC02487.jpg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">OK, OK, I will admit one of them... I have been exhibiting at the Ketchum Arts Festival in Sun Valley, Idaho for over 10 years now, and I always thought it would be a VERY cool honor to receive the Best of Show (Best Booth) award, well last year, 2010, my booth won!</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"> I am not surprised....her art and style are so appealing. This is from her studio in the Arsenal....one small section....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A09C5GFthBs/Tr3Uf-oAukI/AAAAAAAABBU/usSh9M8j4u0/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A09C5GFthBs/Tr3Uf-oAukI/AAAAAAAABBU/usSh9M8j4u0/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"> </div><div class="p1">4. Where do you get your ideas?</div><div class="p1">My ideas are everywhere (not sure who owns ideas anyhow!)... sometimes if I see a shape off in the corner of my eye, sometimes a word in a song will take off and become a Cabinet of Curiosity, sometimes from a dream, sometimes from conversation, sometimes I will create something and I will have no idea where it came from.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5WbW7U-buM/Tr3UgQ49cmI/AAAAAAAABBc/AxV-oJ2sPWY/s1600/DSC_0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5WbW7U-buM/Tr3UgQ49cmI/AAAAAAAABBc/AxV-oJ2sPWY/s1600/DSC_0065.jpg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">This is some of Sharon's current work, assemblage.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"> </div><div class="p1">5. Do you have a loud critic at your back, if so how do you manage it?</div><div class="p1">My critic likes to drive, but I do think I am getting better at pushing that critic out of the way, well sometimes I can kick that critic off in the corner... I think I am starting to work <i>with</i> my critic, accepting that critic could be a necessary evil... I have had the good fortune of having some incredibly supportive people in my life, a lot of them artists. Three years ago I found the Arsenal and I found a place that is one of the true Centers of The Universe... The support, the artists, the energy, the collaboration, the friendships, the realness of This Place has become such a HUGE part of my life that I truly had no idea existed... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pmwJo5Bb__U/Tr3UfXT7yoI/AAAAAAAABBM/ZkxOuxo43jY/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pmwJo5Bb__U/Tr3UfXT7yoI/AAAAAAAABBM/ZkxOuxo43jY/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" /></a></div><div class="p1">This last picture is her newest work. I love it. It is so unique, beautiful, layered and funky just like Sharon herself. You can come visit Sharon (and me) for our December Open Studios December 10th and 11th from 10-5. This is a real treat if you have never been to the Arsenal in Benicia, it's a playground of Artists, shops and beautiful architecture. This event if family friendly, fun and FREE. </div><div class="p1">Here is a link for Sharon's website for those who want to see more...</div><div class="p1"><a href="http://www.sharonpaynebolton.com/">http://www.sharonpaynebolton.com/</a></div><div class="p1">This is one rising star I can tell you, her work is also featured in the downtown Benicia gallery 621..</div><div class="p1"><a href="http://www.gallery621.com/Artists/SharonPayneBolton/SharonPayneBolton.html">http://www.gallery621.com/Artists/SharonPayneBolton/SharonPayneBolton.html</a></div><div class="p1">I am happy to be a friend of Sharon's and I hope some of her artistic genius blows over Hip Chick's direction. Come visit both of us anytime at the Arsenal!!</div><div class="p1"><a href="http://beniciaarsenal.com/maps.php">http://beniciaarsenal.com/maps.php</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-49915791888423837822011-11-04T10:38:00.000-07:002011-11-04T10:40:21.747-07:00Handmade Christmas ornamentsI went to Spark the Event in Salt Lake City Oct 21st and 22nd and came away completely inspired by the level of creativity there. We did nothing but craft for two full days and my head was spinning from so much stimulation. One of my favorite parts was the "make and takes", they are quick easy projects that can be done in 15mins or so. It made me think of offering make and takes at the shop for open studios in December. Handmade gifts are so special and many people are too busy to do them but if there was a table with all the supplies and a teacher (me) to show you how to do it, then perhaps this would be popular.... So I went to Michael's craft store yesterday. Ouch. That places hurts my head and my pocketbook. I have such art ADD I seriously can't handle a store like Michael's. I want to make EVERYTHING and buy EVERYTHING. Well as we all know that's big bucks. What I did buy was some glitter, pipe cleaners and stars to try out my make and take concept. Here is what I came up with...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I think these would work for make and takes, and I am having fun creating one of a kind styles. To personalize for make and takes I would have letters so people can say "Grandma" or "Mom" etc and then they would be giving a unique present. What do you think?? I was thinking of pricing them at $10.00 I know I would love to do this if I were looking for a Christmas present and it'd be fun to make one for my own tree...Here they are together..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/---MtEJSad7Y/TrQetzvSlNI/AAAAAAAAA7c/TVX7nYgAG18/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/---MtEJSad7Y/TrQetzvSlNI/AAAAAAAAA7c/TVX7nYgAG18/s320/DSC_0007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>and I am going to make more with some other styles and shapes...Also here is my last painting I made on a day I was struggling with thinking too much...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>it's a good reminder for me to stop thinking and just create...I love crackle and want to incorporate more of it in the future. So that's what I've been up to. Off to the shop to make more make and takes and paint....I love to hear from you, so let me know if you are creating and if you have any good make and takes ideas to share....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1959497082475991760.post-40532322811517235272011-10-29T22:01:00.000-07:002011-10-29T22:02:18.060-07:00An Interview with Sharon Tomlinson-Artist ExtraordinareI love women artists. They inspire me daily. I have met the most incredible artists on facebook and one of these talented ladies is Sharon Tomlinson. I love her work. It is unique, fun , gorgeous and dynamic. Probably like it's creator I'm guessing, who was generous enough to take some of her time and respond to my questions about what got her started. Before I share my questions and her response, let me show you a few pictures of her work..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PupiXzNZ75Y/TqzTylT9R6I/AAAAAAAAA1k/Uc1rr4Pz-OI/s1600/sharon+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PupiXzNZ75Y/TqzTylT9R6I/AAAAAAAAA1k/Uc1rr4Pz-OI/s320/sharon+1.jpg" width="236" /></a></div> I just love the dynamic palette she uses, her original style of mixed media and collage, and her obvious talent with faces..<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I16rh52NDzg/TqzTy1aUhgI/AAAAAAAAA1s/G2ghJg7pM7E/s1600/sharon+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I16rh52NDzg/TqzTy1aUhgI/AAAAAAAAA1s/G2ghJg7pM7E/s320/sharon+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> This is a softer and more relaxed palette, again using imagery for the overall composition, and leaving the story up to the viewer.<br />
I don't know Sharon well, I am just an admirer of her work, and soon to be student in her new class, "Faces in Collage" which starts November 4, 2011. Here is her link to find out more<br />
<a href="http://allnorahsart.blogspot.com/">http://allnorahsart.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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<div class="p1">I asked Sharon 5 questions that I as an artist am curious about. </div><div class="p1">1. How long have you been making art?</div><div class="p1">"I guess you could say I have been making art since my oldest was one year old. He is now 43. Yes, I am old. And throughout all those years my art play took me in many directions. I experienced seeing something and wanting to try it; because, when you are young and have a creative spirit, that is just what you do. For example, I started with ceramics and tole painting which led me to oil painting. I was a oil painter of landscapes, still life, as well as, the human figure. I am self taught with the exception of one mentor who shared her studio and talent with me nearly every weekday. It was during that time that I discovered my passion for sculpture. Studying how-to books, I became an original doll maker and made my own production molds as well as the wigs and costumes right down to the tiny one inch leather shoes. I think that was the first time that I realized I had a creative passion about something. However, doll making, my way, from the lump of clay to the tiny shoes was so time consuming that during my children's teenage years, I had to put the lump of clay down for a while. Then I joined my husband in our insurance business. All that being said, I took about a 20 year break from my art. However, my creative spirit could not be squelched totally. One example is during that time I was involved with community theater where I wore all the hats of a community volunteer including, painting many huge backdrops for the theater productions. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Then, about 5 years ago, I discovered a new passion. The discovery of collage, mixed media and altered books on the Internet knocked me over. I don't even remember why I started using acrylic paints as I had never used them before. But I feel the passion and no matter what I am doing, I must have a brush in my hand. More than that, I must be painting faces. Faces are my passion."</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Ws9-jI4t2U/TqzTzS7yzqI/AAAAAAAAA10/1Msw03apvG4/s1600/sharon+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Ws9-jI4t2U/TqzTzS7yzqI/AAAAAAAAA10/1Msw03apvG4/s320/sharon+3.jpg" width="256" /></a></div> 2. How long did it take for you to find your unique style?<br />
<div class="p1">"Well, I have been making art for so many years and I'm sure my style has been evolving. But I actually feel like my style today has only been developing this past five years. I think a unique style develops when you have such a passion for something that you just keep doing it over and over and over. </div><div class="p1">And you let yourself grow by being fearless and experimenting. And you daydream about it when you are not doing it. In my case, "faces" being part of my passion, I can't even watch a TV program without looking at mouths and eyes and noses and getting lost. I even see faces in patterns and texture when there are no real faces. I think your unique you shows up when you get lost in the process. I think it's about passion."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWys8ar3ppY/TqzTz8K6y-I/AAAAAAAAA18/xH3Wfi0sCMw/s1600/sharon+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWys8ar3ppY/TqzTz8K6y-I/AAAAAAAAA18/xH3Wfi0sCMw/s320/sharon+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> 3. Do you consider yourself successful?<br />
<div class="p1">"Yes, I do. </div><div class="p1">I have so many successes: almost 50 years of marriage; two beautiful grown children who gave us four grandchildren; my health; and our business.</div><div class="p1">I also consider my creative self successful. I sell my art and have a great online art teaching business that is very successful. My newest class, <i>Faces In Collage</i>, starts November 7th."</div><div class="p1"><a href="http://allnorahsart.blogspot.com/">http://allnorahsart.blogspot.com/</a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jpxKY9MfnlY/TqzT0KhKgKI/AAAAAAAAA2E/z3Qbgf_fpoE/s1600/sharon+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jpxKY9MfnlY/TqzT0KhKgKI/AAAAAAAAA2E/z3Qbgf_fpoE/s320/sharon+6.jpg" width="257" /></a></div> 4. Where do you get your ideas?<br />
"I find and see and hear inspiration everywhere and anywhere. I'm not looking to see the whole or finished next painting. Sometimes, I hear the quietest whisper that snags my imagination and is all I need to "start". You just have to start and know that you are an artist and you have been inspired. And then after you have started, keep listening because and you will get inspiration for the next brush stroke. And the next. And the next. My new class tag line is "images inspire the story". I think that relates to your question because it is the real images, as well as, the minds eye images and images from our memory that all get stirred around and give us our imagination that becomes the story."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4_YcM9foh9Y/TqzT0srqmKI/AAAAAAAAA2M/dtmECc-N7iA/s1600/sharon+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4_YcM9foh9Y/TqzT0srqmKI/AAAAAAAAA2M/dtmECc-N7iA/s320/sharon+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>5. Do you have a loud critic at your back, if so how do you manage it?<br />
<div class="p1">"I know him. But he has been pretty quiet lately. I'm not sure why. Maybe ignoring him long enough worked and that gave me some confidence.</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1"></div><div class="p1">Thank you Sharon. Thank you for sharing yourself with me, and my friends, for inspiring me and helping me grow. I know so much more about you now, and I look forward to watching your career unfold. I am simply in awe of how women in the arts collaborate instead of compete. It's utterly refreshing to ask such personal questions about the artistic process and get in depth answers within a day's time. Sharon Tomlinson is a class act and I am thrilled to be able to showcase such a talented artist.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10