Twinkle, Twinkle

2 Girls, 2 Journals, 1 Week . . .

2012-02-09T20:23:00.000-08:00

"Journaling One Week"

Watercolor and Wallpaper Journal

I laughed out loud when I saw it. I was reading our friend Daniele's blog a few weeks ago when I saw a gorgeous photo she posted of a latte resting on top of the newest issue of Stampington's Art Journaling. She mentioned that she'd just been on an "alone date" and was thrilled with her coffee and new source of inspiration. Ironically, I got out of the house that day too and did the same thing! A latte and the latest Art Journaling was the way I too choose to spend a few moments alone . . . .

Well, one thing led to another and we got to talking. We discussed how although we've both done journal entries before, that at least for me, it never really included the journaling part. We wanted to give this style of art a real try, but agreed that we needed to come up with something that could be completed in a reasonable amount of time. That idea lead to what you see here: the journal entries of two girls - who's lives are filled with art and kids - completed in just one week.

The concept was to spend just an hour a day working on what would become seven journal pages. If you're laughing now, it's because you already know what I didn't: that we would both end up spending every spare moment on it, pouring our hearts and souls into what has become a true reflection of our innermost thoughts, if only for one week.

Here's what I came up with:

To see the beautiful (ok, fabulous and moving) pages Daniele created, please check hers out here.

Thank you for your visit! I so appreciate your time . . . .

Linking to PPF and Just Journals. Thank you Kristin, Eva and Marcia Beckett!

Kristin xo

Works in Progress . . .

2012-02-03T12:51:00.000-08:00

"Silly Boys" (Detail)

I've been Arting a lot lately, but you wouldn't know it by looking here. I have something up my sleeve that I hope to have completed in time to share with you next week . . . . Meanwhile, I wanted to sneak in a few detail shots of the WIP's here.

Handmade papers

"Afraid to Jump" (Detail)

(Image from Retro Cafe Art)

"She wanted to be a Star" (Detail)

Thank you for your time & Happy Arting to you,

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 46)

2012-01-26T19:25:00.000-08:00

"Just do You"

8 x 10 Altered FedEx folder

I was rummaging through my box of unfinished projects (yes, a whole box. Please tell me I'm not alone in this ;) this morning when I came across a colorful background I began nearly two years ago in a class with Traci Bautista. It was created on the back of a FedEx folder using several handmade papers that we cut and collaged to the front. I love the way she suggests and works with recycled materials as a substrate and I had so much fun playing with her tools and mark-making materials to create the handmade papers you see here. Having said that, I put it in "The Box" as soon as I got home and haven't thought about it since. . . .

Until now. When all of the sudden I saw it again and realized that it could be a perfect base for the "funky" face I've been wanting to paint for a while now. I scanned it so that you could view it in it's original form and went to work. Wanna see what I came up with?

Original background created in Traci's class

Varied eyes and one earring (pierced through the folder) that reads, "Wise"

Stars cut from handmade paper (from my stash) and outlined with crayons

Finished with decorative trim on the bottom and (pink!) wire for hanging

Isn't she quirky? Thank you for the base Traci - and for the colorful lesson - you are such an inspiration!

And thank you to Eva & Kristin for hosting such a great Paint Party.

See you there,

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 45)

2012-01-20T09:42:00.000-08:00

"you. are. beauty."

8 x 8 chunky canvas

Happy PPF!

I'm on my way out of town for a little weekend with family and friends, but I wanted to share this 8 x 8 gallery-wrapped canvas with you before I scoot out . . . .

As you can see, I'm on a Life Book kick and wanted to try my luck at a brunette version of this journal page that I recently completed on the course. I put her on a chunky canvas (which, btw, is ever-so tricky compared to the watercolor paper ;) and painted the words, "you. are. beauty." to the right.

This is a gift for my girlfriend who really is stunning, both inside and out. She has an impressive career - globe trotting around the world in the beauty industry - which is how we met over 15 years ago. She's behind the scenes doing makeup for runway shows and at high-end events and weddings rubbing elbows with the rich and famous. And once in a while, she takes me (a former makeup artist myself) along for the ride. This is dedicated to her, my purty, purty friend and host for the evening.

Flocked paper crown

Chunky sides

Stickles glitter & Swarovski crystals give her movement

Thank you for taking the time to look and comment! To see more painterly pieces, you're welcome to check out the Party for yourself . . ..

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 44)

2012-01-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

"Girls Are Like Apples"

8 x 12 Moleskine journal

Today I thought I'd bring my latest Moleskine page to the Party . . .

Like most of us, I have a collection of special quotes and sayings that I've stashed away or saved for that "perfect" project. I've been saving this anonymous quote for years, waiting for that something special. It finally made it's way into this journal page, but I do think that it's meant for more. . . . perhaps a canvas version of the same . . . . I dunno.

But I do know that I love the quote and am grateful to have it written down somewhere. It's a message that I think is vitally important to share with my little girl:

"Girls are like apples. The best ones are at the top of the trees. The boys don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid and don't want to get hurt. Instead, they just get the rotten apples that are on the ground that are easy, but not as good. So the apples at the top think that there is something wrong with them, when in reality, they are amazing. They just have to wait for the right boy to come along, the one who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree."
- Anon

Mushroom college elements from Lisa's Altered Art

All writing done in pencil

Thanks for looking! I hope you have a great time at the party. . . .

Kristin xo

Life Book (1)

2012-01-08T12:28:00.000-08:00

"My Super Powers"

9 x 12 Watercolor page (with extension)

I (finally) had the opportunity to finish my first lesson with Life Book! I'm thrilled to be a part of the year-long class and so look forward to the education, insights and camaraderie there.

Our first lesson focused on creating a journal page that will eventually be bound in a book at the end of the year. We were asked to list what we believe are our "Super Powers," or the qualities that make us unique and which bring joy to ourselves and others.

I really enjoyed making this page and learning how to create a more realistic, 3/4 portrait. It's the first that I've done like it, and I want to thank our teach Tam for sharing her beautiful talents with us.

Here's what I came up with:

Front flap, closed

Vintage text reads, "My Heart"

Full spread

Swarovski crystals on crown & Stickles glitter on lettering

Eeeee . . . . SO looking forward to more . . . .

Thank you for visiting,

Kristin xo

A Colorful 2012!

2012-01-05T12:39:00.000-08:00

"The whole world, as we experience it visually, comes to us through the mystic realm of color."

- Hans Hofmann

I. Am. So. Looking forward to what this year has to offer. There's a sweet feeling in the air, a crisp determination, a warm fuzzy that you get in the pit of your stomach when you know something good is coming . . . I don't know how to explain it better than that, but I'm grateful to start this new year full of promise, possibilities . . . and color . . . .

Wanna know what I'm doing?

I'm starting the year on a beautiful note with Life Book. The community and camaraderie over there is amazing and I'm eager to begin the year's worth of insights and education by Tam and 15 other guest artists. I'll be there all year, and will be sharing most of what I do there with you here as well.

I'm looking forward to this year's new Our World Our Art, the next installment of the former One World One Heart focusing on art and artists. It's gonna be a great party, which usually begins in January . . . .

I'll be participating in Paint Party Friday and Sunday Postcard Art as often as possible. The weekly check-in's and communication with other artists are incredibly inspiring and so much fun.

Speaking of color, I am thrilled to be hosting another installment of The Summer of Color! This year's theme, Ice Cream Inspirations should prove to be cool and colorful . . . .

Of course, there may be other possibilities to play that I don't yet know of. I promise to take every opportunity that brings me closer to another goal of mine this year: To make something of my art. Professionally. There, I said it (gulp). . . .

And on a personal note, I am optimistic that this will be the year of babies. I want one. Still. And I'm eager to see if 2012 brings the baby that we so desperately want here in our home.

Having said that, I'd like to share with you a recent (gorgeous, sweet and loving) addition that makes "baby" on the forefront of my mind right now: Kendra's new puppy!

Brand new baby girl!

How sweet is she? We lost our family dog last year and this little one is just what we needed to bring a little light and energy back into our home. She's the first puppy Kendra and I have ever had, and I have to say, we're already in love!

So here's to new babies, new art, new adventures and a whole lot of color. I look forward to sharing it with you all . . . .

Kristin xo

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

"Resolve to make at least one person happy every day, and then in ten years, you may have made three thousand, six hundred and fifty persons happy, or brightened a small town by your contribution to the fund of general enjoyment."

- Sydney Smith

Here's to a deliriously happy & exceedingly colorful 2012 . . .

Kristin xo

Merry, Merry!

2011-12-22T09:40:00.000-08:00

Holiday "Photo Shoot"

Just a few days to go before Santa comes calling, and we (especially the 6-year-old) are getting pretty excited around here. . . .

So, as it's almost Christmas, I wanted to share with you some of my favorite pictures from our recent holiday "photo shoot." Kendra received her first pet - a baby crested Gecko - for her birthday in September so this year, "Gecky" is making his first appearance too. . . can you spot the little one in the picture? Yep, that's him . . .

On her finger

On top of the candy cane

Taking his "close up"

Cheeky Gecko! (That's something I never thought I'd say!)

And this year's Christmas Card winner? . . .

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

"Christmas, my child, is love in action.

Every time we love, every time we give, it's Christmas."

--Dale Evans Rogers

I wish you the happiest Holiday memories and the sweetest Christmas surprises.

Until next year,

Kristin xo

My First Swap!

2011-12-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

8 x 8 Gallery Wrapped Canvas

I'm so excited to share this with you! Lucky Me received the most amazing package in the mail the other day - a gorgeous 8 x 8 gallery wrapped canvas - from Daniele Valois of Creating Learning Flying!

I met Daniele through The Summer of Color and was immediately attracted to her bold, whimsical style and the sense of fun, freedom, and fearlessness her art expresses. She creates beautiful pieces of heritage art as well, and has been featured in several Somerset Memories magazines.

I don't recall exactly how it came about, but I was inspired by one of her Mixed Media / Scrap pieces to try something similar and in the process, asked if she would be interested in a trade. I would do something for her featuring a picture of her baby and she would do something for me featuring a picture of mine. She kindly agreed (yeah) and suggested that we complete them in time to give to each other for Christmas.

I sent her several photo options (okay, too many) and she happened to select one of my all-time favorites of Kendra at about a year and a half. Here is the original, followed by detail shots of what she did with it . . . .

My friend Nina took this picture of Kendra when she was about a year and a half.

Look at all that beautiful, bold color: I LOVE those cheeks!

Aren't the sides cool? There is so much to attention to detail all the way around the piece.

This is my favorite detail: The "roof!" Do you see it?

She created a "home" with Kendra in the center of it all!

"Living A Colorful Dream"

Look at all this beauty (and glitter ;)

A front door (on the bottom left), flower boxes, a roof & chimney!

I. Am. Thrilled to have this beautiful piece of art in my home and am so grateful to Daniele for all of the love and energy she put into making it. Thank you Daniele, from the bottom of my heart.

If you'd like to see what I made for her beautiful baby, you can pop over to Creating Learning Flying today and see what I sent to them . . . I hope she loves hers as much as I do mine!

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 40)

2011-12-15T19:51:00.000-08:00

"Star"

5 x 5 Gallery Wrapped Canvas

Side Detail

Has anyone seen my last two weeks? I lost them right around the first of the month and haven't been able to find them since . . . I better retrace my steps, starting with Candy Cane Lane . . . .

Okay, truth be told, I have been arting a bit in the last few days, but haven't been able to share them here for fear of ruining any Christmas surprises. Having said that, this bitty canvas was done for a little friend of mine that'll probably not see this before it is given to her. And since I'm not naming names anyway, I hope my secret's safe with you.

"Star" was created with pencil, water-soluble crayons and acrylic. I've been into these funky little stars lately, so they also made an appearance. Once I put one one her cheek, I was inspired to write out the word on her neck. Perfect for a pre-teen (now I've said too much) don't you think? Final touches include the use of charcoal for depth, oil pastels for a bold pop of color and Stickles glitter for the fun of it . . .

I also want to take this opportunity to send a big, huge Thank You to Denise for the following prize I recently won in her drawing. She sent along the cutest craft book along with all of the lovely, sparkly (how did she know?) things that you see below. I love them all, but I have to say, those socks are my absolute favorite! Thank you Denise, I am so very grateful.

Thank you for your visit! If you'd like to see more painted pieces, please check out the Party for yourself.

I'll see you there,

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 38)

2011-12-01T17:58:00.000-08:00

"Merry & Bright"

8 x 12 Moleskine Journal

Caran D'Ache watercolor crayons and Liquitex acrylic

Background stamping & Stickles glitter tree

Pencil used for text & shimmer spray for texture

Happy PPF!

Thanks for taking a peek at my attempt to muster up some Holiday Spirit . . . now, if I can only finish that tree . . .

To see more painterly pieces, please feel free to check out the fabulous Party below:

Christmas Kisses,

Kristin xo

Somerset Studio Gallery!

2011-11-29T16:37:00.000-08:00

The Grapes of Wrath 1 & 2

Page 47

Eeeee! I was thrilled to find a contributors copy of the new Somerset Studio Gallery (Winter, 2012) in my mailbox the other day - I had no idea I would be in it, and am so grateful for the opportunity. They selected a couple of pieces that I completed last February for a call on art inspired by The Classics. I choose The Grapes of Wrath as I felt that it's words were as true today as they were at the time it was created. . . you can read more about it here or pick up a copy as of December 1st. For more information, please feel free to check out the direct link on my sidebar.

Thank you for letting me share this with you!

Kristin xo

How Cute is This?!

2011-11-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

Mug from Bird on Her Head

Hellooo everyone!

I hope the Holidays are treating you well and that you're enjoying the beginning of the festivities . . . since it's Cyber Monday, I thought I'd share with you the cutest ever mug that I recently bought from Joanna. A series of her little girls with big eyes (which are usually accompanied by Daisy the Dog ;) are now available on mugs for the Holidays! Truth be told, I bought this as a gift for someone else . . . but the quality was so fab and the colors were so bright, that I, well . . . I am really enjoying my new mug!

Check out her Etsy Site when you can (she is on vacation until the weekend), I know you (or okay, someone else if you're strong enough to part with it) will love this as much as I do. . .

Have fun & Happy Shopping,

Kristin xo

Happy Thanksgiving . . .

2011-11-23T08:51:00.000-08:00

"To succeed in life, you need three things:

a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone."

- Reba McEntire

With much love to you & yours,

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 36)

2011-11-17T17:14:00.000-08:00

"Her"

8 x 12 Journal Spread (Moleskine)

Hey Party People! So happy to be here: my Muse was on strike for a while, but I found that a new Moleskine was the perfect lure to bring her back . . . .

This is the second page I've done this week and I have to say, I'm really enjoying having a journal by my side. I know this isn't a new concept, but although I've done journal entries before, I've never actually gotten to the journal part. . . . or to be honest, the being-okay-with-it-not-being-"perfect"-part. That's what I'm working on at the moment: being free, loose and more spontaneous with my art. In other words, I purposely allowed myself to make "Her" messy. Messy strokes, rough outlines and even finger painting played a role - see, I took (really close-up) photos to prove it . . .

I also played with a new body style inspired by Manon's work (don't you just love her!) - check out her site (also on my sidebar) to read about a free class she's hosting this weekend. . . the camaraderie and creativity over there is too fun to miss.

Thank you Kristin and Eva: you always throw the best parties!

Kristin xo

Childhood Friends . . .

2011-11-16T13:05:00.000-08:00

(She made her own bed)

"There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again."

- Elizabeth Lawrence

Kristin xo

Journal Play

2011-11-12T16:44:00.000-08:00

"You Are What You Eat"

8 x 12 Moleskine Journal

Images from Retro Cafe Art

A new Moleskine + A few hours to play . . .

Thanks for looking!

Kristin xo

Nine Years Today . . .

2011-11-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

"Memory Jar" adorned with Swarovski crystals and beads

(made several years ago)

"A man doesn't know what happiness is until he's married. By then it's too late."

-- Frank Sinatra

Kristin xo

The Sweetest Part of Blogging

2011-11-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

Kendra & "Dina" (The Dinosaur Girl)

In my opinion, the sweetest part of blogging is the relationships we build along the way . . . I'll never forget how - in my first foray into Blog Land - I was surprised to find that so many people seemed to know each other in "real life." I would see people comment that they loved, missed and admired each other so - they would sign off with "Hugs" or "Kisses" and I thought, "wow, this really is a small world . . ." At that time there was also a blog button that many people were sporting that read, "Blog Friends ARE Real Friends." Which back then, I thought was rather odd.

Of course it's two years later and now I totally get it. I would even venture to say that those of us who share our art, love and life with one another in Blog Land are closer in spirit than some out there in the "real world." Our common love of this community and our heart-felt connections brings us to a place that's hard to find elsewhere . . . .

Which brings me to my friend Tahnya and a post she recently shared called Dino Love. Being that my little one is a HUGE dinosaur fan, I couldn't wait to read what she had done . . . imagine then my surprise when she shared the cutest handmade doll that she made inspired by Kendra! It had a dinosaur fabric body, a dino button by her neck and a hand-stitched face that was the sweetest ever. I commented that I adored what she'd made and that Kendra would absolutely love her. . . . So she sent it to her all the way from Canada!

I cannot tell you how much that meant to me and how honored I was to have been given such an incredible gift. It even came with this handmade card as well:

Thank you Tahnya for all the love and care you put into this beautiful gift for my baby. Thank you for sharing your time, energy and talent with our family in this special way. I am forever grateful.

And that connection, I think, is the sweetest part of blogging . . . .

Kristin xo

What Art Offers . . .

2011-11-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

"What art offers is space - a certain breathing room for the spirit."

--John Updike

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 33)

2011-10-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

"Boo."

4 x 6 Postcard

Happy Paint Party Friday!

And Happy almost Halloween . . . may your weekend be full of ghosts, goblins and plenty of chocolate . . .

Kristin xo

So What Do We Call This?

2011-10-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

"A Single Star"

8 x 10 Altered Cardboard

Texture created with a doll comb and wet Gesso

(Bird's nest from Lisa's Altered Art and vintage girl / head from The Graphic's Fairy.)

Scrapbooking? Mixed Media? I dunno. What I do know is that I miss printing (and actually using) pictures of Kendra since I stopped scrapping, and I've been looking for a way to incorporate more of her (even if it's just her body in this case ;) into my work.

My friend's recently published piece in Somerset Memories in which she used a photo as as the main element in her art, inspired me to try the same. . . here is what I came up with . . .

So: what do we call this?

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 32)

2011-10-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

"You Are Here"

4 x 6

Detail

I've been bit by the painting bug lately, thanks to the weekly art and imagination found over at Paint Party Friday. . . big hugs to Eva and Kristin for their time and dedication in hosting this beautiful community.

"You Are Here" was inspired by the directional maps often found in large malls in which a red dot shows the pedestrian (or lost shopper ;) their location. I used both Golden Acrylics and Caran D' Ache watercolor crayons in addition to a bit of Stickles glitter on the heart, er dot . . .

Thanks for stopping by: to see more painterly pieces, check out the Party for yourself . . .

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday (Week 31)

2011-10-13T18:19:00.000-07:00

"Hello, Bird."

16 x 20 Canvas Panel

(Bird & Crown clip art from The Graphics Fairy)

Whew . . . she's done! Now I can return to my regular Mommy-ing schedule . . .

Thanks to Eva & Kristin for hosting this wonderful Party!

Kristin xo

Sneaky, Sneaky . . .

2011-10-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

"Hello, Bird."

WIP

16 x 20 Canvas Panel

Still at it . . .

Kristin xo

Expect A Miracle

2011-10-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

Vintage Carousel circa 1910: Seaport Village, San Diego, CA

(Please feel free to use this image as your own)

"We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embracing one another."

-- Luciano de Crescenzo

Kristin xo

Paint Party Friday! (Week 30)

2011-10-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

"Hello, Bird."

WIP

16 x 20 Canvas Panel

I made it! I've been loitering around Paint Party Friday for a few weeks now promising myself that I'll join the fun, but today I actually did something about it! I've been in somewhat of a collage kick since the Summer and I have to say that it felt good to get out the 'ole paints again and have a go . . .

"Hello, Bird" is very much a work in progress: as a matter of fact, all I have now is this floating head on a large 16 x 20 canvas panel:

It's being done for my childhood friend who dislikes (I'm being nice) birds so much, it has become her nickname. I'm not sure where I will go from here (although you can bet there'll be a bird in there somewhere ;) but I appreciate the chance to show you what I've done so far. Fingers crossed, I'll have it finished by next week at this time. . .

Thanks to Eva & Kristin for their wonderful idea and generous spirit in putting this party together: I have to say, I love it already!

Kristin xo

Cheap & Easy . . .

2011-10-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

Dressed-Up Chandelier Shades

Plain white shades + a few yards of trim + Fabric Tack = a fun new look for the kitchen nook. . .

A bit bright and cheery for Fall perhaps, but I had to go with my heart when choosing the colors: now all I need is a big bag of spider webbing and I'm ready to start decorating for Halloween . . .

Kristin xo

100 Illustrations!

2011-09-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

100 Illustrations, 2011

"World on a String" & "Future Paleontologist"

It's heeeere! I'm thrilled to have a copy of the first annual 100 Illustrations in my hot little hands (ok, decorative book holder ;) . . . . and grateful for the chance to share my excitement with you here.

Thank you to the publisher (and brainchild of the operation) Diana Evans for sharing her passion for art and artists in this way; I'm honored to be a part of this wonderful book and thank you once again for the opportunity.

Kristin xo

Six!

2011-09-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

"Childhood is the most beautiful of all life's seasons."

- Author Unknown

Happy Birthday Baby!

Mama xo

Because You Went Away

2011-09-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

"Because You Went Away"

12 x 12 Mixed Media Collage

(Images from Retro Cafe Art)

I believe that art is magical. Magical because even when you don't intend (or are even aware) of what you may be creating, a story is being told. A story that only you can tell. And for me, when I get out of my own way and just allow the story to unfold, I find that there are many lessons to be learned.

Case in point: I've had a hard week. In moments of sadness, I went into my studio and tried to play. Play with paint, play with a new song book (found in the post below) and yesterday, I played with a background that I'd made a while back with Shiva Paintstiks. I sat down without knowing what to do and just cut and pasted. I played with the idea of using transparencies and and played with new collage sheets that I just received from Retro Cafe Art, but most of all, I just played without thinking.

When I looked up, I realized that I had created something that came from deep within. Even though I went into the studio to get away from it all, it all came back to me in the form of this collage. The text (which is actually a portion of a poem by Ella Darling Peed) reads, "With all these things / it's not a home / Because you went away."

Without getting all sappy on you, I will say that this is about our family cat that we lost Monday. She was 17 years old. She was in a lot of pain, but in the moments just before she took her last breath, she started to purr. That made me feel better. . .

Kristin xo

If You're Anything Like Me . . .

2011-09-22T21:19:00.000-07:00

Vintage Book of Sheet Music, circa 1919

So I've started a new project. I think. You see, if you're anything like me, you're somewhat of a hoarder. Old pictures, vintage books, wallpaper, ledger pages, love notes, random broken pieces of well, anything that may be paramount to the success of some future art project . . . sound familiar? Well, if you're like me, then you also don't get around to actually using most of it. Fears of "ruining" something special often stops me from ever picking it up again once it makes it through the front door. . .

Well, no longer. I. am. determined. to breathe new life into some of these things I have lying around and give them the attention they deserve. With that in mind, I've started altering a book of vintage sheet music just to see what happens. No preconceived notions, no calculated plan of completion, just fun. A place to go when I have nothing up my sleeves, but I wanna art. This is what I've done so far:

I separated the book into 10 sections. Yes, with staples (gasp!)

But in my defense, at least I'm getting somewhere fast. . .

And this is where I left it. The beginnings of something. What, I'm not quite sure.

But the first layer is down, ready and waiting for our next play date.

(Rocking Horse image from The Graphics Fairy)

Wish me luck. Fingers crossed, I will actually come back to it soon. I'll let you know what happens when I do . . .

Kristin xo

SPA: Pierrot

2011-09-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

"Tears of a Clown"

4 x 6 Postcard

I've been wanting to experiment with "paintovers"for a while now and this week's theme - Pierrot - over at Sunday Postcard Art gave me the perfect opportunity to do so. My goal was to come up with a way to "paint" over an existing image from a magazine or catalogue in order to create a stylized version of the original. I also wanted to challenge myself to work fast and free - and hopefully become a little less cautious with my art in the process . . . Since this was new to me, I took pictures as I went. Wanna see?

Original image from the new Macy's Fall catalogue

For a distressed look, I removed some of the ink with nail polish remover before sealing

the image with clear Gesso. I then backed it onto watercolor paper for strength.

Now here's the tricky part: To challenge myself even further,

I used only wax crayons (Manley) and my finger to blend them.

Final details include the use of pencil, charcoal and Hallmark's B & W sticky ribbons to complete the background.

Thanks for looking! Be sure to check out Sunday Postcard Art for more Pierrot pieces this week. I for one can not wait . . .

Kristin xo

Hello, Mojo!

2011-09-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

"Mother is Out"

6 x 8 Altered Vintage Golden Book Cover

(Images from Lisa's Altered Art)

Hello, Mojo!

Thanks for coming back. Now, will you please stop hogging all the iced coffee?

Kristin xo

Dear Mojo . . .

2011-09-09T09:58:00.000-07:00

(When we last met)

Dear Mojo,

I miss you. To be honest, I feel it rather unkind of you to have left without so much as an air kiss goodbye. No words, no warning, not even a note left under the pillow . . . Where did you go? One day we were playing with our favorite crayons together happily creating a color-blocked background for, well, something and the next . . . nothing, nada. Not one thing. Mojo, please come back. I promise to let you play with anything you want . . . and I'll even let you drink all my iced coffee . . . just come back to me. I'll be the one sitting in the studio with a clean apron . . . waiting . . ..

Kristin xo

The Lazy Scrapbook

2011-09-06T17:36:00.000-07:00

"Little Man"

6 x 6 Chipboard Album covered in Canvas & adorned with a vintage materials.

So I used to scrapbook. A lot. As in, over-a-dozen-albums-in-my-kid's-first-year a lot. And I loved it. I could spend hours on one 12 x 12 layout, happily oblivious to everything else around me. Until one day I noticed that my scrapbook pages were slowly being replaced by altered books and experiments on canvas. The paint I bought to accent my pages was being used in ways I would have never expected and from there . . . well, let's just say my scrapbook obsession has never been the same again.

With the exception of once a year. Once a year I get out the ole' mojo and attempt a mini album for the children - both of whom were born on the same day, 7 years apart - of my childhood friend. It's a gift for their birthday and although I usually end up doing them last minute, this year, I really went the lazy route and created Camden's using as few products as possible . . .

I started by using all B & W photos for a uniform look. Each picture was carefully cut out and distressed with sandpaper and / or scissors.

I gathered all the supplies I could find with a similar look and feel. Mini folders in various sizes, small journal cards, ledger papers, vintage ephemera, tissue paper (7 Gypsies) and one stack of Tim Holtz Kraft Resist Paper Stash were the mainstays.

I then cut the pages in bulk and enhanced them (in an assembly line fashion) with watered-down buff paint, bright white acrylic paint (applied with a brayer) and smudges of charcoal.

Additional details came from images torn from tissue paper and neutral-colored pencils around the images. Personal notes were added to the mini-folders and around some of the pictures with ink. Sparkly touches (naturally ;) were made using Stickles glitter and silver leaf.

For the finale, I kept the last image color and etched a #4 into the picture to represent the year he was turning.

And you know what? I liked the limitations I placed on myself: not only did the album have a uniform look, but there was a lot less to think about during the creative process. It was easy, fun and fast. So you see, being lazy isn't always that bad after all . . .

Kristin xo

Somerset Apprentice!

2011-09-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

Somerset Apprentice

Autumn, 2011

"We all have our own life to pursue, our own kind of dream to be weaving.
And we all have some power to make wishes come true, as long as we keep believing."
- Louisa May Alcott

Pages 44 - 49

I'm thrilled (okay, overjoyed & giddy) to announce my participation in the latest Somerset Apprentice. If you happen by the Autumn issue, flip to page 44 if you'd like to check it out for yourself. The article is entitled "Curfew" and is available as of today. For more information on the articles and artists featured, you can find the direct link on my sidebar. Thank you for letting me share this dream come true with you . . .

Kristin xo

First Grade!

2011-08-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

"All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on."

-Havelock Ellis

We survived the first day! Well . . . what I really mean is I did . . . She was as happy as could be with her new dinosaur backpack (that's practically as tall as she is) and "big-kid" school to look forward to . . .

"How'd you like your first day of First Grade?" "Good!" She announced. "There's a lotsa kids there and my teacher is really funny. I think she's playful. . . Plus, now I'm one year closer to becoming a Paleontologist!" (Oh, how I love that kid!) "That's right Baby Girl, you sure are . . ."

Kristin xo

Ever So Busy . . .

2011-08-23T18:01:00.000-07:00

Squeezing the most out of our final days of Summer while getting the little Slam Dunk ready for First Grade (dramatic sigh) . . . wish us (okay, me) luck: I'll let you know how it goes next week . . .

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - Fini!

2011-08-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

"The sun rose brilliantly above, reflecting the hues of red, orange, lavender and blue in the pond before me. The viridian shadows changed to lemon yellow and lime green as the light washed the morning and I tried in vain to save a piece of this miracle on canvas."

- Mary Erickson

Thank You!
Thank you for joining me in The Summer of Color! Thank you to those who participated by sharing their art and heart with us throughout the course of the event, thank you to those who fostered such a lovely community on Facebook and Flickr, and thank you to those who took the time to follow me personally. It has been a pleasure getting to know and learn from you all.

But Before We Go:
I'm happy to announce that the winner of our last - very colorful and sparkly - giveaway (pictured in the post below) is. . .

YOU

Please Email me your address and I'll get the goods right out.

Until We Meet Again . . .
Although I know we'll stay in touch, sadly, we will have to wait until next June before we begin our Summer of Color party again. . . .

June 4, 2012

Until then, keep creating and keep it colorful . . . I can't wait to see what you come up with!

Sincerely Yours,
Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - Show & Tell

2011-08-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

"The Summer of Color"

Altered Journal Folder, 2011

"He who wishes to become a master of color must see, feel and experience each individual color in it's endless combinations with all other colors."

- Johannes Itten

Orange you glad you did it?

I had to. . . Please allow me to start by saying that the Orange pieces you shared with us last week were simply beautiful. Your art was bright, bold and full of life. Thank you for your time, energy and enthusiasm as we traveled through the last leg of our color journey together. It has been such a pleasure.

And since we start every week with a Giveaway Winner . . .

Let's not stop now. The winner of the Orange goodies (pictured in the post below) is:

YOU

Please Email me your address and I'll get the goods right out.

And Now: A little Show & Tell!

On this - our last week of The Summer of Color together - I love it if you'd give us a little show. . . Wether you joined in every color prompt or not, this week's challenge is to somehow bring it all together and show us what you accomplished throughout the Summer. You can create an altered journal cover or folder as I've done here, make something to put your ATC or smaller projects in or, if you've done a variety of projects, simply showcase your work on a wall, a slideshow on your blog or a series of photographs. However you'd like to share your work is up to you. This will be our final adieu to our colorful Summer of connection and community together. . .

As for Me . . .

I created an altered journal folder using the cardboard backs of two watercolor paper pads and canvas fabric. If you're interested, I'll be sharing an online album on our Facebook page showing the process step-by-step. If you haven't done so already, please feel free to join the group anytime. The rest of my Summer "Arting" can be found below:

You're Next! (Monday August 8th - Sunday August 14th)

I'm really looking forward to seeing what you've done! And for your efforts, our last (very sparkly and colorful ;) giveaway for those who complete the "Show & Tell" challenge will be . . .

{A 24 piece set of (the oh so gorgeous) Martha Stewart fine glitters, a 12 piece set of Prismacolor professional colored pencils, an EK Success Rainbow Color Selector and a hefty sprinkling of colorful Swarovski flat-back crystals and beads.}

Good Luck! And please note: since there is no Bonus! challenge this week, the random winner will come directly off of the link list. Please put your name in the hat by linking your "Show & Tell" post or Flickr feed in the widget below. The winner will be announced here next Monday.

Please Allow Me to Thank . . .

Believe it or not, we had an average of 92 people join us on a weekly basis for our color prompts and have amassed over 460 pictures in our Flickr pool! It was an amazing Summer and I would be remiss if I did not thank some of the special people who helped to make The Summer of Color such a success. Thank you Leslie for being my original sounding board when I questioned wether or not this event I had in my head really had any merit. She shared with me her insights from hosting past events and helped me spread the word before it began. Thank you Leslie for all of your support. Thank you Trisha for starting our Facebook group, without which this event would not have been the same. The community and connection we all created there took The Summer of Color to another level altogether. Thank you Trisha for being an amazing cheerleader and pillar of support. I am so grateful for your help. And last (but not - well you know), thank you Michelle for bringing a little class up in here. She is the creative genius behind all of The Summer of Color advertising, banner displays and of course that beautiful button. Not only did she create my blog background and header, but she is always willing to take an idea and make it better than anything I could have dreamed of. Thank you Michelle for everything you did to make the event so beautiful!

Speaking of Beautiful . . .

Michelle made something for you! As a token of our thanks for all that you did this Summer, please feel free to copy and paste this "I'm A Summer of Color Artist" badge and do with it what you will. I hope you'll love it as much as we do . . .

So Now What?

I know. I miss it already too. Well, since you asked, our Facebook group is going to remain open. You have created such a beautiful community there, that I wouldn't even think of changing it. I will check in periodically to see what you're up to and am looking forward to continuing our endless Summer together there. I will leave our Flickr pool open for another week before putting it to bed. If you'd like to contribute your work to our Flickr page, please feel free to do so until next Sunday, August 14th. After that, I will continue to have both the Facebook and Flickr links up on my sidebar so you can peruse the colorful art at any time. Also (deep breath), I want to encourage you to submit your work for consideration to Stampington & Company (the makers of Somerset Studio). It's not for nothin' that our last Bonus! challenge was to include your favorite quote - it also happens to be one of the next calls for artwork (deadline: October 15th) for publishing consideration. If you have always wanted to submit your work and have not done so, now is the time. Go out there and make us proud! And then tell us about your success on our Facebook page . . .

Oh! And One More Thing!

(Did you see it already?) It was hard to keep a straight face as you all were asking if this was going to be it . . . And No. It. Is. Not. Drumroll please as I eagerly announce . . .

The Summer of Color 2: Ice Cream Inspirations

That's right! Another Summer of creativity, connection and community based upon the colorful hues, feelings and textures found in your favorite Ice Cream flavors. As with this year, it will be a free event open to all styles of art and mediums. We will begin Monday, June 4th, 2012 with an introductory week followed by six weeks of color prompts, blog hops and giveaways based upon the Summer essential itself. I can picture it now . . . the rich textures and earthy colors of Rocky Road, the sticky sweetness of Raspberry Sorbet or the child-like art that comes to mind with Bubble Gum Ice Cream . . . Oh! How 'bout . . .

Stay Tuned!

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - ORANGE

2011-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Orange You Glad to See Me?"

8 x 10 Watercolor Journal Page

{This collage was inspired by the sections of an orange and a familiar joke. It was created using personal pictures (that's Kendra with the lollipop ;), vintage text, a portion of a soda can and images from Lisa's Altered Art}

The Color Purple

As we head into our last two weeks of The Summer of Color, I must say that I'm endlessly impressed by the work you've been creating and sharing with us here. Your Purple pieces were majestic, fun, feminine, whimsical and downright beautiful. I'm amazed at the outpouring of support you've given to one another and want to thank you for sharing your links with us here, your pictures on our Flickr group (we're nearing 350 contributions!) and for the creative community you've fostered on our Facebook page. It's been quite a ride . . .

So Who Won Purple Week?

The Purple giveaway (pictured in the post below) was won by:

YOU

Please Email me your address and I'll get your Purple goods right out . . .

And Now - Welcome to Orange Week!

(Monday August 1st - Sunday August 7th)

We saved one of the boldest hues for last and I for one can not wait to see what you come up with. Should you choose to accept it, your Bonus! challenge is to in some way incorporate (or be inspired by) your favorite quote or poem. As always, please (A) link your blog or Flickr feed in the Widget below so that others can find you (B) leave one comment in the comment section at the end of this post if you created an Orange piece and (C) leave an additional comment if you completed the Bonus! challenge.

Here's What We've Got This Week . . .

{A vintage (1952) "Elsie's Cook Book" for your collage collection, Tim Holtz Distress Ink in Spiced Marmalade, Prismacolor Premier broad marker in Orange, Prismacolor Premier fine line marker #005, Liquitex soft body acrylic in Cadmium Orange, a yard of rich orange satin ribbon and a sprinkling of iridescent and orange Swarovski crystals}

Good Luck!

And What Will We Do Next?

Our last challenge - Monday August 8 - Sunday August 14th - is rather simple: we're gonna have a good ole fashioned Show and Tell. Wether you joined every challenge or not, in order to participate next week, please share with us the body of work you created throughout The Summer of Color. Now, how you do that is up to you. If you created a series of journal pages as I have for example, you may want to make a journal cover and show us the pieces within it. If you created a series of canvas work, perhaps you can give us a gallery showing of how they look on the wall. Or if you've made a variety of items, you may just want to share pictures of your work. Wether it's a slideshow or a compilation of shots, the choice is yours. It will be the final adieu to our Summer of creativity and connection together. . .

Will There be a Giveaway in the Last Week?

Yep. Although there will be no Bonus! challenge in our last week together, we will link our posts or Flickr feeds and there will be a beautiful, sparkling, colorful giveaway . . . see you then . . .

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - PURPLE

2011-07-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

"The Dreamers of Dreams"

8 x 10 Journal Page

{This page was inspired by my Dad (a huge Summer of Color fan ;) who suggested that the color Purple reminded him of the moon. Serendipitously, I found a poem by Arthur William O'Shaughnessy that went perfectly with the theme. The portion I used here reads, "We are the music-makers / And we are the dreamers of dreams / Wandering by lone sea-breakers / And sitting by desolate streams; / World-losers and world-forsakers / On whom the pale moon gleams: / Yet we are the movers and shakers / Of the world forever it seems."}

Oh, Red . . .

What amazing pieces you've inspired! Your work was bright, bold and full of beauty. I loved watching our Flickr pool pop with color as your art was added throughout the week, and so appreciate the love and dedication that you put into it. Thank you for your kind comments to one another, for the supportive community you've created on Facebook and for sharing your links with us here as we head into our final Summer of Color weeks together . . .

Believe it or Not . . .

This week marks our second-to-last color prompt. We will be working with Purple this week and our final color (announced at the bottom of this post) next. If you haven't yet joined us and would like to, please know that you are more than welcome anytime. We would be honored to have you.

So how many weeks are left in The Summer of Color?

A total of three. After we complete our final two weeks of color prompts, we will have a wrap-up week in which we share what we have done during our time together. For those who are thinking ahead, this means that you can either create something to house or showcase the body of work you've made over the Summer, or you can simply share pictures of your work as a whole. More on that later, but know that there will be linking opportunities and another giveaway in our last week as well . . .

And now . . . The Red Week Winner is . . .

YOU

Please Email me your address and I'll get those Red hot goodies right out.

Ready for the Color Purple?

Our color prompt this week (Monday July 25th to Sunday July 31st) is the mystical, magical, regal color of Purple. Should you choose to accept it, your Bonus! challenge is to in some way incorporate a little shimmer and shine in your work. This includes but is not limited to the use of fine glitter, glass glitter, sparkly embellishments, crystals, metallic objects or anything else that would stop a deer in it's tracks . . . As before, please (A) link your blog or Flickr feed to the widget below so that others can find you (B) leave one comment if you created a Purple piece and (C) leave two comments if you completed the Bonus! challenge.

Oooh, show us the Purple Giveaway. . .

(A vintage child's dictionary page featuring the color Purple, two vintage postcards (both written on and one stamped on the back), 8 yards of Darlee 20 Gauge copper wire, Liquitex Soft Body acrylic paint in Brilliant Purple, Stickles glitter in Lavender, a set of ten Loew Cornell white nylon brushes and a sprinkling of iridescent purple and clear Swarovski crystals)

And what is next week's color prompt?

ORANGE

(Monday August 1st to Sunday August 7th)

"Orange is red brought nearer to humanity by yellow"

-Kandinsky

I hope there's a Bonus! challenge. . .

Well, you're in luck. Should you decide to take it on, the Bonus! challenge for the color Orange is to in some way incorporate your favorite quote or poem. You can either include the text directly into your work or you can let it serve as your inspiration.

Thank you and Have Fun!

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - RED

2011-07-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Strolling with Hubert"

8 x 10 Journal Page

{This was inspired by schoolwork Kendra recently brought home that featured the word red. Her writing serves as the base for this mixed-media painting & collage. Also featured are several sources of sparkle: from Stickles red to iridescent glitter to Swarovski crystals and even a decorative piece (the belt) from the top of an old flip flop}

Who knew Brown could be so pretty?

Like many of you, I wasn't sure how I was going to tackle the color. But try we did and I'm now among those who found that I really loved working with Brown. It is neutral, rich and varied in it's applications - and I was so inspired by your use of it. Thank you for sharing your art here, on our Facebook page and in our Flickr group. We had an amazing turnout last week and I know it's going to continue as we hit the ground running on our next - highly anticipated - color . . .

But first, who won Brown week?

Our Brown giveaway (featured in the post below) was won by . . .

YOU

Please Email me your address and I'll get your vintage Browns right out . . .

And now: welcome to RED week!

This week ( Monday July 18th to Sunday July 24th) our challenge is to work with the color Red. Should you decide to take it on, your Bonus! challenge is to somehow incorporate wings into your work. As before, please (A) link your blog or Flickr feed in the widget below so that others can find you (B) leave one comment (in the comment section at the end of the post) if you completed a Red piece and (C) leave two comments if you completed the Bonus! challenge.

And the giveaway?

{Canson 5.5 x 8.5 tablet of drawing paper, Liquitex acrylic ink in Naphthol Crimson, Golden Acrylics in Pyrrole Red (1 oz), Recollections Tinsel Glitter in Cherry, A vintage Old Maid playing card (Little Miss Muffet), a few red paint chips and a vintage Golden Dictionary page featuring the word "red." Lastly, you'll find a sprinkling of red and iridescent Swarovski crystals}

And what is next week's color?

PURPLE

(Monday July 25 - Sunday July 31st)

"But, luckily, he kept his wits and his Purple crayon."

- from Harold and the Purple Crayon (1955)

Will there be a bonus challenge with Purple?

Um. Hum. And let's be honest: this one's really for me ;) Should you like to give it a go, your Bonus! challenge for Purple week is to bring on the sparkle and shine . . . You may use anything that would stop a deer in it's tracks . . . fine glitter, chunky glitter, glass glitter, crystals, beads, shiny discarded embellishments (like the flip flop above ;), glass holiday ornaments . . . I could go on . . . you get the picture . . .

Have fun!

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - BROWN

2011-07-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Nodland"

8 x 10 Journal page

{This page was inspired by the vintage sheet music - a lullaby entitled "Bye Bye Land" - which serves as the base of the collage}

Yellow fever!

Another wonderful week was had with Yellow. Although some of us initially expressed concern with the color, we tackled the challenge regardless and succeeded in producing an amazing amount of beautiful, inspirational pieces based upon the signature hue of Summer. Thank you once again for sharing your heart and art with us here and with one another on Flickr and Facebook as we continue our colorful journey together . . .

Did you hear?

The winner of last week's Yellow drawing (pictured in the post below) is . . .

YOU

Please Email your address to kdvanvalkenburghatmsndotcom and I will get your goodies right out.

Now, welcome to BROWN week!

Your color prompt for this week (Monday July 11th to Sunday July 17th) is to create anything your heart desires inspired by color Brown. Your Bonus! challenge is to incorporate a bold shot of color somewhere in your work. As always, please (A) link your work in the widget below so that others can find you, (B) leave one comment if you created a Brown piece and (C) leave two comments in you completed the Bonus! challenge.

And did you see all those vintage pretties?

This week's Brown giveaway will include a lot of 'em . . .

The Paper Company Flourish rub-ons, several (okay 6 ;) large vintage ledger pages, several pieces of vintage sheet music, Distress Ink in Pumice Stone, one distressed tag, a few sheets of mica, Stickles glitter in Cinnamon and Copper and a sprinkling of bronze Swarovski flat-back crystals

And what is next week's color prompt?

RED

(Monday July 18th - Sunday July 24th)

"Red protects itself. No colour is as territorial. It stakes a claim, is on alert against the spectrum."

- Derek Jarman

Is there a Bonus! challenge with Red?

Yep. Should you decide to take it on, next week's Bonus! challenge is to incorporate something - anything - winged into your work. This can be taken literally or figuratively, the choice is yours.

Have fun . . .

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - YELLOW

2011-07-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Bewildered"

8 x 10 Journal Page

{You've inspired me to play with collage this week. The circular form was taken from a vintage Naval navigation sheet and the "scratchy" edges were directly influenced by my friend Amy's pink piece from last week. The text reads, "she stared at me, bewildered and then she smiled."}

Oh, pretty, pretty Pink . . .

What a beautiful week! Your pieces were full of life, color and often, femininity. I love that pink can be so many things to us - cool and rich as well as soft and sweet - and as a group, we had it all. Thank you for your excitement and encouragement to one another as we continue this colorful journey together. I'm honored to share it with you.

Speaking of share . . .

If you haven't done so already, I encourage you to join our Facebook page to really immerse yourself in The Summer of Color experience. There you'll find interesting links and discussions as well as colorful quotes and questions that we have along the way. I for one am loving it there! Also, please feel free to add your work to our Flickr group found on the sidebar to your right. It's growing at a tremendous rate and at last count, we had over a 150 pictures in our community pool. If your work is not yet represented, please feel free to add to it at any time.

Half way there . . .

Can you believe it? As of this week, we're half way through our color prompts. From this point forward, there will be a total of four (4) more color prompts in addition to one wrap-up week in which we'll be sharing all that we did and learned along the way. If you have not yet participated in The Summer of Color and would like to, please know that you are welcome to pop in at any time. We would be thrilled to have you.

Who won, who won!?

Glad you asked. The Random Number Generator has done it's job and the winner of the Pink giveaway (pictured in the post below) is . . .

YOU

Congratulations! Please Email me your address and I'll send them right off.

And now, welcome to YELLOW week!

Your color prompt for this week (Monday July 4th to Sunday 10th) is to create something - anything - that you'd like inspired by the color yellow. Your Bonus! challenge is to somehow incorporate metallics into your work. As before, please (A) link your work in the widget below so that others can find you, (B) leave one comment if you created a Yellow piece and (C) leave two comments if you completed the Bonus! challenge. Good luck!

Here's what's up for grabs . . .

A large (28 x 22') sheet of yellow decorative paper, two vintage (written on and stamped) postcards from the 1930's, Recollections extra fine glitter in Sunflower, one Elite package of 18 and 30' necklace chains, one Jolee's Swarovski crystal pendent in bright yellow, a package of Bristol ATC cards, Craftsmart paint pens and a sprinkling of clear and iridescent Swarovski crystals and beads.

And what is next week's color prompt?

BROWN!

(Monday July 11th - Sunday July 17th)

"I cannot pretend to feel impartial about colors. I rejoice with the brilliant ones and am genuinely sorry for the poor browns."

-Winston Chruchill

Next week's Bonus! Challenge . . .

Should you choose to accept it, next week's Bonus! Challenge is to incorporate a bold shot of color in your work. Anything at all . . . have fun!

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - PINK

2011-06-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Seek Joy"

8 x 10 Watercolor Journal page

This page was inspired by the following quote:

"If we were talking to you on your first day here we would say, 'Welcome to planet Earth. There is nothing that you cannot be or do or have. And your work here - your lifetime career - is to seek joy'."

- Abraham

You continue to amaze me . . .

Just two weeks into color prompts and The Summer of Color has already proven to be an incredible journey. Your Green work was beautiful, diverse and so obviously created from the heart. Thank you for your comments to one another, your dedication to the project and the enthusiasm and passion you bring to your work. I love the community we're building here and am honored that so many of us are sharing it together.

Have you checked out our Flickr?

I must say, it is really impressive! At last count, there were 100 pictures in our gallery and it continues to grow daily. If you haven't added your work to the Flickr pool yet, I highly encourage you to do so. I love seeing our work in one place and I'd be thrilled if we were all represented. If you have any questions about Flickr, please feel free to go here. For more Summer of Color community and connection, check our our Facebook page. It's quickly becoming my favorite new hangout . . .

Drumroll please . . .

The winner of last week's Green Giveaway (pictured in the post below) is . . .

YOU

Please email me your address and I'll get your Green goodies right out!

Now, on to PINK week!

I'm thrilled to hear that many of us are already excited about this one. If you haven't joined The Summer of Color and have been wanting to, now's a perfect time to start. Judging from your reactions, I can already tell that it's gonna be a great week. . . As of Monday the 27th through Sunday July 3rd, you may link your artwork inspired by the color Pink in the widget below. This week's Bonus! challenge is to in some way incorporate wax into your work. In summary, (A) please link your work in the widget below so that others can find you, (B) leave one comment if you created a Pink piece and (C) leave two comments if you completed the Bonus! challenge. Good Luck!

And what is this week's pretty in Pink giveaway?

Bazzill basics 8 page scrapbook in pink, several pink bingo papers, two vintage (written on and stamped) postcards from the 1920's, one vintage nursery-rhyme playing card, several pink "keep this coupon" tickets, Liquitex soft body acrylic paint, Hubba Bubba bubblegum ;) and a sprinkling of clear, iridescent and pink Swarovski crystals and beads.

And what is next week's color?

YELLOW

(Monday July 4th to Sunday July 10th)

"How wonderful yellow is. It stands for the sun."

-Vincent Van Gogh

"What a horrible thing yellow is."

- Edgar Degas

Is there a Bonus! challenge for Yellow week?

But of course! Next week - should you choose to accept it - your Bonus! challenge is to incorporate metallics into your work. Metallic ink, paints, leafing, embellishments or otherwise, the choice is yours.

Have Fun . . .

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color - GREEN

2011-06-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Pink with Envy"

8 x 10 Watercolor Journal Page

Wow . . .

What an incredible Blue week! I'm thrilled with the response we had with our first color prompt and am throughly enjoying the connection and community we're building here. Thank you for your time, enthusiasm and for sharing this colorful journey with me. . .

A little bit about Linking, Commenting & Giveaways:

Thank you for linking your color-specific artwork in the widget below. In order to qualify for the weekly giveaway, you must also leave a comment in the comment section directly below the current post. Starting this week, if you participate in the bonus challenge, you will be able to enter your name twice. The best way for me to get an accurate count for the Random Number Generator (and to save you from having to link more than once) is to take your names from the comment section. With that in mind (and although it goes against my very nature to do it ;), I have deleted any duplicate or additional comments from last week's blue pool in order to get an accurate count. As of this week, (A) please link your work in the widget below so that others can find you, (B) leave one comment if you created a Green piece and (C) leave two comments if you completed the bonus challenge.

Anything else?

If you just found us, please feel free to join in the fun! Don't worry if you missed a week, you can pop in anytime. Also, there's an amazing community of artists gathering on the The Summer of Color Facebook page and in our Flickr pool. Check it out . . .

So who won the Blue Giveaway?

YOU!

Please email me your address and I'll get it right out to you . . .

Now, on to GREEN week . . .

This week's color challenge is Green. The Bonus! Challenge is to somehow incorporate the color Citron into your piece. Please remember to leave an additional comment should you complete both. I so look forward to seeing what you do!

And what is this week's Giveaway?

An elegant floral picture frame with vintage sheet music, Liquitex acrylic paint in Brilliant Yellow Green, a set of two Moleskine ruled notebooks, Craft Smart polymer clay and a sprinkling of green, iridescent and clear Swarovski crystals and beads.

Okay. Please feel free to link your GREEN work here:

(Monday the 20th - Sunday the 26th)

And what is next week's color?

PINK!

"Pink is the navy blue of India"

-Diana Vreeland

Bonus!

Next week's Bonus! Challenge is to incorporate wax into your piece. Beeswax, candle wax, wax crayon . . . any kinda wax will do . . . Have Fun!

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color: BLUE

2011-06-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

"The Wishing Well"

8 x 10 Journal loose-leaf page

Can we talk?

Before we go any further, I want to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude for the tremendous response we have had for this event. I'm blown away by the amount of participants joining The Summer of Color and am honored by your excitement and enthusiasm. It looks like we're in for a fabulous Summer of creating, community and connection. . .

What's everyone doing?

Last week's challenge was to tell us what you are planning to create during the event. It seems that the freedom to do anything you want was very popular and because of that, we have an amazing assortment of art and inspiration to look forward to. In case you're curious, the majority of us will be doing some sort of art journaling, followed closely by ATC's, color inspiration / altered books and scrapbooking. There will also be some doing canvas work, cards, collages, altered objects, illustrations and/or sketchbooks, digital art and photography. A few are planning to work with fabric or felting and we even have a poet, jewelry artist, one who restores furniture and an artist working on fairies. We will be seeing work with teabag paper (how cool is that?), oils and of course, some who will be doing a little bit of everything. I'm so looking forward to learning from all of you - thanks again for sharing your talents with us all . . .

A little bit of business:

In all of the excitement of the opening week, there were a few of us who got started on their artwork a little early (so we've had a sneak peek of some beautiful work ;). If you linked up with blue on last week's post, I would be so grateful if you would link it again this week. Those who wrote about their plans for the event qualified for last week's giveaway, which was the assortment of art supplies. Because the first week was a little tricky to decipher, I selected the winner by randomly drawing a name out of a hat (okay, bowl) and checked to make sure she had met the first week's requirements. From next week on, I will use a random number generator from the comments section. This will make more sense when it comes time for bonus weeks, when you are able to enter twice should you complete the bonus challenge. So, the linking is for us to easily find one another and the comments are to sign up for the giveaway. Lastly, you will always know a week ahead of time what your next color challenge will be. That way, you have time to plan and prepare your work. . .

Okay, okay, so who won?

Drawing for last week's giveaway of art supplies

Congratulations! The winner of the assortment of art supplies from last week's drawing (pictured in the post below) is: You! Please email me your address and I will get it out right away.

Now, welcome to Blue week!

As of today (from Monday the 13th to Sunday the 19th), you may post your artwork based upon the color Blue. To do so, please share your piece on your blog with a link back here (so that others can find us) and then link your direct post to the linking widget below. To enter the blue giveaway, please leave a comment in the comment section.

The Blue giveaway for the week is . . .

Large Martha Stewart fine glitter in turquoise, 2 bottles of Martha Stewart flocking powder in Robin's Egg and Turquoise, a Martha Stewart ballpoint tip glue pen (and believe me, you want this ;) and a sprinkling of pale blue, clear and iridescent Swarovski crystals and beads.

Also:

Please feel free to share your work on our Facebook page and our Flickr group which you can always find on the sidebar here . . .

And what will we be working on next week (from Monday the 20th to Sunday the 26th)?

Green!

"Green is the prime color of the world, and that from which it's loveliness arises."

- Pedro Calderon de la Barca

Bonus!

For Green week, your bonus challenge (for a chance to be entered twice in the Green giveaway) will be to incorporate the color Citron in your piece. Have fun . . .

Kristin xo

The Summer of Color!

2011-06-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Color is the keyboard, the eyes are the hammers, the soul is the piano with it's many chords. The artist is the hand that, by touching this or that key, sets the soul vibrating automatically."

- Wassily Kandinsky

Welcome to The Summer of Color, a 10-week blog party celebrating art in all it hues!

Beginning today - and every Monday throughout the event - we will focus on and create art based upon the beautiful, bold and luscious colors of the rainbow. We will work in our preferred medium exploring color and share what we produce here. We will link our work using the widget on the bottom of each Summer of Color post and, for those who participate, leave a comment to be entered in a weekly giveaway. The purpose of the event is to emerge ourselves into the world of color: playing, experimenting and learning from one another throughout the lazy days of Summer . . .

Let's get going!

There are so many ways to participate in The Summer of Color. You can create anything you'd like, as long as it's based upon the color of the week. You may choose to develop a body of work using the same materials each week, or mix it up and work with different mediums and/or products throughout the event. It's up to you.

What kinds of things will we be seeing?

Glad you asked. I have taken the liberty of linking to some beautiful images of the following art forms:

Of course, there may be things you'd like to do that I haven't thought about. The thing is, if you have an art form you love, go for it. Create it in color and share it here. If you have an art form that you've been wanting to try, now's the time. We will learn and explore together. And hopefully make some new arty friends along the way . . .

So, what about the colors?

We will create new art each week based upon a specific color that I disclose here. In other words, we will all be working on the same color in the same week. Now, a note about the colors themselves: after much thought, I have decided to make each week's color nonspecific. As much as I want us to create in the mediums we prefer, I also want us to create in the hues within each color that we prefer. Should the first week's color be blue (just as an example ;), I would want you to create in the blues you love.

And how will this work?

Each week, I will provide a color prompt here. You then will have a week to complete your piece based upon that color. When you are done, simply post about it and link it here (in a widget like the one below) from the following Monday on. Of course, you can also share your work through Flikr. Each week the color will change and we will get started on another piece. There will also be a giveaway each week for the participants of the challenge. Just leave a comment to be considered for the random drawing. The winner will be announced the following week.

Whew, so in the end, it goes like this:

* Come here every Monday to find out what color we are working on

* Create art based upon that color

* Come back here the following Monday (or within that week) to link your work and enter the giveaway

* Discover what the next week's color will be

Okay, that's better. Anything else?

Um hm. Just a few things to note. There may be some weeks in which there is a bonus challenge. In that case, should you complete the bonus, you may be entered into the drawing twice. Also, this is meant to be fun. No pressure. If you are away or can't participate every single week, don't worry about it. But you can always check in to see what others have created in your absence. Having said that, only those who participate may enter that week's drawing. That seems fair, right?

Yep. And what about the stuff on your sidebar?

There has been a Flickr group and a Facebook page (thanks again Trisha ;) created specifically for the event. Check in there for more Summer of Color fun.

**********************************************************************************

Okay? Okay! On with week one . . .

This week, your challenge is simple. Just tell us what you're going to do or create during the event. Will you be working with inchies or moo cards? Will you be creating a Summer of Color journal or scrapbook? Will you be making an altered book or be doing some canvas work? Please share it with us here. Simply post a picture in Flickr or on your blog along with your thoughts about your project. Please also include a link back to Twinkle, Twinkle so that anyone else who wants to join in can find us. Then attach your post using the linking widget below. When you're done, leave a comment in the comment section to be entered into the random weekly drawing.

This is what I am going to be working with . . .

Strathmore 8 x 10 Ready Cut Watercolor papers

I have decided to participate (yes, I will be working and sharing alongside you ;) by creating a lose-leaf art journal. I love the idea of making a journal that I can work on one page at a time and am thrilled to be creating a series based upon color. In the end, I hope to find some creative way to bind the pages for a complete book about our journey together. Wish me luck.

Will there be a giveaway this week?

Naturally! And it's a good one - I know these art supplies would get my wheels turning (and my heart beating) . . . You wanna win this?

Artist Loft 6 piece acrylic set, Strathmore watercolor postcards, Visual mixed-media journal, and (like me) a pad of ready-cut 8 x 10 watercolor paper. Bristol ATC cards, a Blick notepad and 8 colored pencils, an 18 x 18' piece of primed canvas material and a sprinkling of Swarovski crystals.

Again, all you need to do to enter is post about your participation in the event, link that post here and then leave a comment in the comment section. You will have until the end of this week (Sunday, June 12th) to do so. The winner will be announced next Monday.

AND - what is next week's color?

Beautiful, beautiful Blue!

"There are connoisseurs of blue just as there are connoisseurs of wine."

- Colette

You may link your artwork inspired by the color BLUE as of next Monday, June 13th.

Thanks for joining me: I look so forward to hearing what you are planning to do this week!

{Update: Thank you for all of your excitement! It looks like we're headed towards a great Summer of creativity and connection. I've been asked a few questions that I wanted to share with you so that I can be sure that we are all comfortable with how this will work. First; this is an international event. Should your name be selected for a drawing, I will happily to mail it to you at no cost. Second; This week's challenge is to post about what you plan to create and link that direct post in the link widget here. This week's giveaway will be drawn from the pool of those who have posted about their participation in the event. Third; we will post our blue pieces as of next week, from Monday the 13th on. That will be the first time to share our artwork with one another. Thanks again! xo}

Kristin xo

Quotable Color

2011-06-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Camden" WIP

"The soul is dyed by the color of it's leisure hours"

- W. R Inge

See you tomorrow . . .

Kristin xo

Sweet Saturdays

2011-06-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

1958 Greeting Card

Free to use

I love this little one from my stash of vintage greeting cards (she's "furry" in person ;) and thought it a perfect fit for this week's Sweet Saturdays.

Please feel free to take it and use it as your own . . .

Kristin xo

Quotable Color

2011-06-03T07:34:00.000-07:00

"If you want an interesting party sometime, combine cocktails and a fresh box of crayons for everyone."

- Robert Fulghum

"Arting" with the Kids!

2011-06-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

6 x 6 Chunky Canvases with Monogram

My little friend Ashton turned 11 over the weekend. She celebrated in style with a day's worth of activities followed by a slumber party for 8 of her closest friends. One of her life loves is art, so I volunteered to create and teach a project that I hoped they would all have fun with. The results are what you see here: a series of 6 x 6 chunky canvases collaged with handmade papers (a la Shona Cole) and topped off with painted and glittered initials. We documented the process step-by-step so that I could share it with you here . . .

Sand craft store initials

Create handmade papers using printer paper, Gesso and craft paints

Paint initials in desired color

Add stamps to painted papers

Tear handmade papers and glue onto canvas with gel medium

Add gel medium to painted initial and sprinkle with iridescent glitter

Adhere initials with E-6000 (I did this on my own) and allow to dry

Volia! Happy Birthday Ashton - I love you!

Kristin xo

One Week to Go . . .

2011-05-29T23:16:00.000-07:00

Aqua, Tiffany blue, Robin's Egg blue

(My favorite colors)

As our countdown to The Summer of Color concludes, I wanted to share with you a bit about the feelings and emotions associated with color . . .

What color inspires you the most? Are you passionate and daring? Introspective and conservative? A little of each? The following list of colors and their meanings may also describe a little about us and our personalities . . . What does your favorite color say about you?

White
Peaceful, virtuous, tranquil, serene, seeker of enlightenment.
Blue
Motivated, dynamic, refined, youthful, introspective, conservative and patient.
Purple
Spiritual, passionate, regal, unconventional, observant, tolerant and witty.
Green
Relaxed, compassionate, prestigious, efficient, seeker of new life and growth.
Red
Powerful, passionate, persistent, determined and strong.
Pink
Upbeat, healthy, friendly, compassionate and calm.
Orange
Happy, courageous, enthusiastic, bold, adventurous, warm and welcoming.
Yellow
Anxious, alert, optimistic, confident, expressive and intelligent.
Brown
Reliable, relaxed, approachable, stable and earthy.
Black
Dignified, elegant, authoritative, impressive and mysterious.

Thanks to Google and websites such as Care2.com and AskAndyAboutClothes.com for the information and insight.

As we turn the bend towards The Summer of Color, I want to take the opportunity to thank all of you who have already made this such an exciting event. The support and enthusiasm for the art party to come has been tremendous, and much more than I ever imagined. People are blogging about it, sharing the event with their friends and posting buttons on their sidebars. I can feel the excitement and am sincerely honored by the support.

As you may have noticed, there is also a new link on my sidebar to The Summer of Color on Facebook. Trisha Trixie from the beautiful blog Art a Day Keeps the Crazies Away was kind enough to contact me and offer her support in putting together a Facebook page for the event. She has gone above and beyond to help make this a fun and successful adventure for us all. Now, in addition to the link party here, you can also share and support those in the group via Facebook who will be taking The Summer of Color journey together. You can post photos, ask questions, offer advice and link to other items of interest just by joining. I will be checking in regularly throughout the event as well. Thank you Trisha, I'm so grateful for all of your help!

As of next Monday - June 6th - you will find all the information you need to participate. We will discuss options for sharing your art - in whatever form that may take - and how to link to the group. We will have a flicker group established and discuss the ways in which you can participate there as well. We will begin our link party (don't worry, the first week is easy-peasy) and you will find out what the first week's giveaway will be (and it's a good one ;). The conclusion of the post will also tell you all about the first color we will be working with. . . . It's gonna be a beautiful, bold, colorful Summer, and I for one can't wait!

See you then . . .

Kristin xo

Sweet Saturdays

2011-05-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

Western Union Telegraph, 1952

Free to use

As we approach Memorial Day here in the States, I thought it appropriate to share a vintage Western Union telegraph from a serviceman to his little girl on the occasion of her birthday. I think that this is so touching and sweet - and is my contribution this week to Diana Evan's Sweet Saturdays.

Please feel free to take it and use it as your own . . .

Kristin xo

Somerset Studio Gallery!

2011-05-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

Somerset Studio Gallery - Summer 2011

(Page 33)

(Page 165)

I love my mailbox! What a thrill it was to open yesterday and find that I had been sent a contributor's copy of the newest Somerset Studio Gallery! I had no idea that I would be in it, and as I excitedly fumbled through the pages to see what they picked, I noticed not one, but four pieces in there (I've pictured 3 of the 4 above ;). If you're not familiar with the Gallery edition, it is chocked full of art. Page after page, there is a feast for the eyes and it has always been one of my favorites from the publisher. If you want to learn more about it, the link for the Summer issue is here. . .

Wow. What a good day. Thank you for letting me share it with you.

Kristin xo

Two Weeks to Go . . .

2011-05-23T00:06:00.000-07:00

Trippy Paint-Spill Painting - Artist Holton Rower

As our countdown to The Summer of Color continues, I wanted to share with you one of the coolest videos featuring a group of artists working with color that I've ever seen . . .

I had the seed of an idea for a Summertime color event when I came across Sharmon Davidson's fabulous blog, True Adventures of an Art Addict a couple of months ago. She'd written the most beautiful post about the symbolism of color and included this video of artist Holton Rower along with it.

As soon as the seed grew into an actual event, I asked and was kindly granted permission to post the video again for you here. I hope you'll find it as inspiring as we did.

Check back next week - our last before the event begins - for a bit of trivia based upon what our favorite colors say about us . . .

Kristin xo

SPA: Stork

2011-05-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

"Dreams"

6 x 4 Postcard

I'm honored to play host this week over at Sunday Postcard Art! It may not come as a surprise that I choose a theme near and dear to my heart, Stork. . . .

This postcard was created using several collage elements including decorative paper for the background, vintage floral wallpaper for the cloud and vintage baby shower greeting cards for both the baby bundle and the stork. Both buff and titanium acrylics were used to keep the piece soft and several charcoals, wax pastels and wax crayons were added for depth. Final touches included a vintage poem by Harriet Dustin Buffum, Stickles glitter as a lining to the cloud, a few sprinkles of german glass glitter to represent stars and a single Swarovski stone on the Stork.

Thank you for allowing me to act as your host this week. I look forward to seeing all your beautiful Stork creations . . .

Kristin xo

Quotable Color

2011-05-18T22:49:00.000-07:00

Spanish Village Art Center

Balboa Park, San Diego, CA

"Why do two colors, put one next to the other, sing?

Can one really explain this? No."

-Pablo Picasso

The Countdown. . .

2011-05-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

True Colors: A Palette of Collaborative Art Journals

A Somerset Studio Publication

As the countdown to The Summer of Color begins, I wanted to share with you what I believe to be a must-have in any art lover's book collection. It is a favorite of mine, and one which has given me hours of inspiration over the last several years.

If you're not familiar with it, True Colors was published by Somerset Studio back in 2003. As event originator Lynne Perrella states in her introduction to the book, "One Saturday morning, in Spring 2001, I got the idea to gather a group of journal artists together to explore the significance of color in our lives. I suspected these artists had an equal regard and appreciation for the topic and would relish an opportunity to express and share their observations"(p. 7). In the end, not only did fourteen other amazing artists sign up to participate, but a beautiful book full of color and creativity was developed showcasing their results.

If you're eager for our event to begin and want to get a jump start on your color journey, I highly encourage you to check it out. Of course, you need not have the book in order to participate, but if you find that you must have it like I did, you can find the direct link here.

Only three weeks left until our own exploration of color through The Summer of Color blog event. . . check back next Monday to watch one of the most amazing videos of a group of artists working with color that I have ever seen . . .

Kristin xo

SPA: Dada

2011-05-14T15:33:00.000-07:00

"Journey"

6 x 4 Postcard

I loved this week's prompt - Dada - over at Sunday Postcard Art. If you are not familiar with Dada, you're not alone. I had no idea what it was until Marion's challenge inspired me to check it out. Essentially, Dada was an art movement at the turn of the century that came to be known as "anti-art." It's strove to "buck the system" or create pieces which were political, humorous or in some was opposite of the traditional art forms at the time. In a way, it was an art sub-culture that ironically changed all art as we know it today.

I loved the idea of creating something out of my comfort zone and for this piece, I challenged myself to dig into my box of scraps and just create. There was no preconceived notion of what I wanted to achieve, just some subliminal collage work going on. And I have to say, what I came up with surprised even myself. . .

"Journey" was created on a base of handmade papers (the pig's flying stamp sealed the deal), that was collaged with a magazine image and other ephemera. Her arm was "tattooed" with rub-ons and her eye was enhanced with a false lash barcode that came with the Journey transparency found on the bottom. The piece above her eyes is meant to represent sunglasses and the vintage text reads, "your failures, each mistake." Final touches included a Swarovski art "earring, " stamping and Stickles glitter.

Kristin xo

Announcing . . .

2011-05-05T23:36:00.000-07:00

The Summer of Color! A blog party celebrating art in all it's hues . . .

What was that you said?

We're gonna have a party. Think of it as a blog block party centered around the beautiful, bold and luscious colors of the rainbow. It's the stuff we arty people dream of.

Well, what is it?

It is a free 10-week blog event that begins here on Monday, June 6th.

What will we do?

We will create. Here's the deal: beginning June 6th, you can log on here to see 8 weeks of color prompts sandwiched between an opening and closing week. The opening week will focus on all the ways you can choose to participate. The closing week will feature all the ways you can showcase the art you have created.

Tell me more.

We all love color. And we all create differently. The Summer of Color will allow us to work in our preferred medium, based upon a specific weekly color. In other words, the sky's the limit. It is all about creating, connection and fun during the lazy days of Summer.

What do you mean by our "preferred medium"?

What you do with the week's color prompt is up to you. Create anything you want - including but not limited to - inchies, moo cards, ATC's, postcards, jewelry, greeting cards, scrapbook layouts, canvas work, altered books, journal pages, assemblage art, digital art and even poetry and photography. As long as it features the color we are working on that week.

What then?

Every Monday from June 6th on, I will provide a color prompt on this blog. You will then have a week to create whatever you want based upon that week's color and link it to a widget that will be below the post. There will also be a Flicker group created specifically for the event.

Who can participate?

Anyone who has a blog or a Flicker account can participate. You may even choose to include the kiddies. And there is no cost. Just a lotta fun.

Anything else?

Glad you asked. I want this event to be successful. The only way to really meet and connect with new people is to have a lot of us participate. With that in mind, there will be a weekly giveaway for all who join in. There may even be a few bonus challenges in which you can be entered twice. The winners will be selected at random, via a Random Number Generator.

Did you say weekly giveaways?

Yep.

I can't wait! Bring on June 6th!

I feel the same way! Thank you for your excitement. Please feel free to pass it on - there's a fabulous button (I can say that 'cause I didn't make it - thanks, Michelle ;) on my sidebar if you decide that you can't live without it . . . And see you soon . . .

Kristin xo

Stay Tuned . . .

2011-05-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

"Color! What a deep and mysterious language, the language of dreams"

-Paul Gauguin

Baby Face

2011-04-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

"Baby Face"

6 x 6 Chunky Cavas

I know. I know. Looks familiar, right? Actually, it's the third in what has become a series for me. Okay, so if you don't recall, I started with this piece in response to a prompt from Sunday Postcard Art. That turned in to this which I made as a gift for my childhood friend's baby shower. Now, for the shower piece, I used colors that were specific to that family's needs (their eye color surrounded by the colors found in the baby-to-be's nursery) and included her name in crystals on the side of the canvas.

Well, as art would have it, those pieces inspired this - a 6 x 6 chunky canvas version of the same in which I was able to use all of my favorite colors. I found myself using bolder strokes and brighter hues this time - and fussing less with the subtleties. This one is "rougher" and more whimsical and truth be told, I think I like it the best so far . . . Now . . . I think I need a green-eyed version . . . Oh! How about lavender eyes . . . or . . .

This one's for you Leslie - good luck with your event for Lizzy. I know that it will be a tremendous success.

Kristin xo

The Splendor of the Rose

2011-04-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

"The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of it's scent nor the daisy of it's simple charm. If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, Spring would loose it's loveliness."

- Therese of Lisieux

Easter Images for You!

2011-04-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

Vintage birthday card with adorable bunny

"Sweet Girl" Easter card from 1956

I found some sweet images from my collection of vintage children's cards that I wanted to share with you. They (or portions of them) would be great for Easter cards, place cards for your Easter table or afterwards for your Easter journaling or scrapbooking. . .

Have fun!

Kristin xo

Woo Hoo! (The Winner)

2011-04-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who participated in the Woo Hoo! Giveaway. Your kind comments were so appreciated and although it's always tough to choose just one winner, I'm so happy for the girlie who will be getting these to play with. . . So without further adieu, I put the Random Number Generator to work and she came up with the following choice . . .

If you haven't yet had the pleasure, you must check out this talented artist's work. I've been a fan for a long time now - and I know that the bright colors here will find a perfect home along side her bold and whimsical art . . . Have you guessed yet? Okay, the winner is . . . YOU!

Now, because I hate to leave the rest of you empty handed, I have scanned the cutest vintage children's card for you to enjoy. A lot of greeting cards in the 50's had images on both the front and back, so I've included both of them for you.

Vintage image from my personal collection

Yours for the taking ;)

Have fun and thank you once again for all of your sweet support!

Kristin xo

Lookie, Lookie . . .

2011-04-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

Something sweet from Joanna

So you may remember the illustration of Kendra that I recently made inspired by Joanna from Bird on her Head? She encouraged me to create something in my daughter's likeness and from that suggestion, "Future Paleontologist" was born. Well, what you did not know was that Joanna then asked for our address so that she could send a necklace to her! How sweet is that?! Kendra got her package (all the way from Greece - which added to the excitement ;) this weekend and. was. thrilled! Is this not the cutest thing ever? Joanna creates the most charming, whimsical pieces - many of which are based upon her poodle Daisy - and she was kind enough to send one to us. And I bet she didn't even know that Kendra loves dogs and that orange is her favorite color . . . Thank you so much Joanna, that was so sweet of you!

Which brings me to a note about blogging: how cool is it that we can inspire and support each other in this way? I mean, one comment from a friend in another part of the world put a fire under me to create something that Kendra will always have from her Mommy. And in addition to that, she got to learn about Greece and a talented artist there that happened to send her something special that she will always cherish. Talk about full circle. We are lucky to bring our worlds a little closer here in Blog Land . . .

Speaking of which, today is the last day to sign up for my Woo Hoo! Giveaway. Please feel free to add your name to the list if you have not already done so. I will pull the winning name via Random Number Generator in the morning and announce it here. Thank you and Good Luck!

Kristin xo

Sweet Quote

2011-04-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

"The standard of success in life isn't the things.

It isn't the money or the stuff - it is absolutely the amount of joy you feel."

- Abraham

SPA: Dance

2011-04-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

"Dancing Feet"

6 x 4 Postcard

I had a lot of fun with this week's prompt, Dance at Sunday Postcard Art . . . I started with the cutest image of dancing children from The Graphics Fairy which I enhanced with colored pencils, pen and Stickles glitter. I then placed them on a background of blue and white acrylic with painted drapes (to represent a stage), some charcoal for a bit of distressing and an image of a chandelier. Final touches included outlining the dancers in black ink and the addition of more glitter on their shoes to underline the sentiment, "Dancing Feet."

Thanks for looking! I look forward to seeing all your beautiful Dance pieces this week . . .

Kristin xo

Woo Hoo! (A Giveaway)

2011-04-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

Farb-Riese Color-Giant pencils & Anthropology goodies

I've had an exciting day in Blog Land and want share it with you! I. am. thrilled to have just received my 200th Follower, so to thank you properly, I took a trip to my fav store Anthropology so that I could offer you some pretty little things to go along with the set of 12 Farb-Riese Color-Giant Lyra pencils I've been saving for just this occasion. . .

If you've never tried these pencils before, let me tell you, you're in for a treat! They're bright, soft and easy to work with. They're fabulous for collage work, journals and for anything else you'd use colored pencils for. In addition, they can be both sharpened or cut with a craft knife to get just the edge you want for your arty projects. And because they work so much better when displayed in a pretty cup, I got one of those for you too. That was going to be it, but then I saw the most adorable kitchen towel with soft blues and a whimsical list of wedding anniversary gifts, so I picked that up as well. After all, if we use a pretty mug for our pencils, then we should also have a pretty towel in our studio to go with it . . .

So here's the deal: if you're interested in having these in your home, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post before Monday the 18th (midnight, PST) to be entered. I will select the one winner via Random Number Generator and announce it here the next day. If you would like to be entered and do not have a blog that I can link back to, please just leave your email so that I can contact you when you win.

That's it! Good Luck and Thank You for your support. It really means the world to me.

Kristin xo

Practice Kindness

2011-04-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

La Quinta Resort and Spa, CA

"Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do . . . but how much love we put into that action."

-- Mother Teresa

Baby Audrey

2011-04-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

"Baby Audrey"

6 x 6 gallery-wrapped canvas

Front facing

Detail of crystal letters

My childhood friend is having a little girl. She and baby-to-be were given a beautiful shower yesterday and I wanted to share with you this petit canvas that I made for the occasion. I heard from her sister that the nursery is decorated in "pistachio and sea shell pink" (and I thought I was the only one who spoke in paint chips ;) and it's safe to assume that Baby Audrey's eyes will be the color of the rest of their family, a beautiful amber. With that in mind, I created this 6 x 6 piece that I hope she and baby will love.

The tiny face was made using pencil, acrylic, water-soluble crayons, ink and Stickles glitter (on the whites of the eye) and the sides were painted in the colors of the room (the green looks more pistachio in person, I promise). Finally, I added her name on the right side of the canvas with whimsical iron-on crystal letters.

Fingers crossed that she does end up looking like the canvas - or else I'll be doing another version once the little bundle is home . . .

Kristin xo

In The House!

2011-04-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

"Joy"

Altered Journal card with Alpha Masking

I have sad news to report. Unfortunately, The House of Art will soon be closing it's doors. Although we had a good run, sweet Emme could just not do it all on her own. You can read more about that here but in the meantime, the April content is now live and will be available until the end of the month. There you will find several artist's take on the subject of Being Aware (my article is entitled "Stories your art wants to tell") as well as my latest video on Alpha Masking.

Thank you Emme for all of your love and support. I wish you the very best. . .

Kristin xo

100 Illustrations

2011-03-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

"The World on a String"

I'm thrilled to (finally) be able to share with you the pieces I've been working on for Diana Evans' project, 100 Illustrations. Yep, that means I'm gonna be in a book - along with several other artists - that will be coming out this year! How cool is that!? . . .

So does the piece above look somewhat familiar? You may remember this piece (of the same name) that I did for my friend's nursery a few months back? Well, It was suggested by one of my biggest fans (okay, it's my Dad ;) to make it again for the book using the world as a yo-yo. I changed the figure a bit (making her more round than her predecessor) and chose a pink page-boy cut but other than that, the sentiment is the same.

"Future Paleontologist"

The second piece for the book (there are a total of two pages along with a character meant to represent ourselves) was directly inspired by the uber-talented Joanna from Bird on Her Head in a recent comment she made suggesting that I create a piece about Kendra. I couldn't imagine a better way to honor my baby than to include her in the project, so I did my best to capture her style and passion for dinosaurs here. Thank you Joanna for the inspiration - I don't know if I would have done it without the seed you planted in my head . . .

I'll let you know when the book is released and would like to thank Diana, joanna, my Dad and you for all of your support and inspiration. It really means so much.

Kristin xo