paper-n-soul

Haiku My Heart - Hunger Moon

2011-02-18T16:45:00.015-05:00

NASA image

full-bellied sister
sails the deep winter sky
hearts rising

In the wee hours, the full moon shone bright and beautiful in clear skies, beckoning us to stop for a time and honor the deeper parts of ourselves.

Reading about the current full moon on the blog Virgo Magic, written by astrologer Emily Trinkaus, I was smacked upside the head by this statement:

"Chiron in Pisces triggers the wounds of separation. [...] The wound of living in a culture that denies our interconnectedness with all life, and that denies the existence of the invisible realm of intuition, imagination, spirit and dreams."

Whoa. Even if you have never heard of Chiron or think astrology is just a bunch of hooey, does this statement resonate? I've spent a lifetime feeling a connection to, or in my earliest memories, at least an awareness of something beyond what I could see or touch... alternating with the feeling of not quite belonging here. From an early age, I knew such feelings were not the accepted norm and so I learned to keep them to myself. I also understand that I'm not alone in this lifetime of knowing. But I've never considered it in this context.

According to Ms. Trinkaus, this full moon in Leo is urging us to open our hearts to all of our painful wounds – to acknowledge and allow this pain to flow through us, thereby dissolving the wounds of (perceived) separation. Cracking our hearts wide open...

Our Native ancestors called this the Hunger Moon, because it is the full moon of deep winter, when everything is frozen and dormant. Food sources were scarce for our ancestors.

On a very basic level, separation from the source of their existence.

Hunger Moon.

Seems a fitting metaphor for this moon, as well.

Rumi said, "The wound is the place where the Light enters you".

Let it be so.

I'll leave you with this, another celebration of this particular full moon. Beautiful and flowing with peace – and light – to fill those spaces in your heart:

Watch in full screen mode.

Haiku your heart here.

Read a little about this beautiful Lantern Festival here.

Haiku My Heart – How Many Angels?

2011-02-11T10:25:00.014-05:00

Orion nebula, NASA Hubble image

what artist's brush
reveals the colors
of angels dancing?

Always, when I look to the heavens, I see them. From a small child, when I first noticed them swirling in ethereal raiment through cottony clouds, Angels have graced my skies. They are just there... in the clouds, in the nebulae, in the auroras. Even in the patterns on my wallpaper. :)

I saw this beautiful imagery yesterday, and my first thought was "So many Angels!".

Color me crazy. I see what I see. :) Maybe you see them, too.

Visit Rebecca and friends for Haiku My Heart Friday goodness.

Peaceful Angel-gazing...

More Mandalas

2011-02-06T14:12:00.004-05:00

Three more from the same source image:

I like the depth and texture in these, and the interesting shapes. It's fun to see what can be created from one image, and how the essence of that image changes. It's as if that frayed and tired rope has blossomed. Like snowflakes: each so different. The beauty of ordinary things.

I forgot how addictive this is. :) I really heart Photoshop.

Peace and warmth on this blustery, snow-covered day.

Mandalas

2011-02-05T13:56:00.017-05:00

I missed Haiku My Heart Friday, but I did create some mandalas from a photo I took last fall. Over on 14 Secrets, Susanna shared a link to her friend's beautiful mandala art. It reminded me that I had created mandalas using a Photoshop tutorial I'd found online several years ago, that allows you to replicate a slice of a photograph in a kaleidoscopic fashion. I was surprised and delighted to find that the same tutorial is still available. The creator of Earth Mandalas, Komro Atiri Cheyean Moriko, had been kind enough to share her process for the rest of us to play with, way back when. I'm always amazed and grateful for the generosity of folks who offer the fruits of their creative labors so freely. Such a gift. Even if you aren't interested in the tutorial, please take a look at Komra's art.

The Earth Mandalas tutorial is very clear and thorough. It was written for Photoshop 5, though, so if you're using a later version and you want to give this a try, there's one change that I discovered that you'll need to know. Where you're instructed to enter the numeric value of the rotation, you won't find it in the drop-down menu, as shown. It's in the option bar at the top, when you select 'Free Transform' from the drop-down:

The process may seem a bit daunting at first, but after you've gone through it once or twice, you'll see how simple it really is. There are several options available, as well. I chose to use the one offered in the tutorial for these - the eight-sectioned smaller version.

Created from the same image:

This is the source photo for all three:

Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning, literally, 'essence' (manda) and 'container' (la). So beautiful. Each holding sacred space. Of course, these, while honoring nature, are mere nods to the true and authentic origin of the mandala and its creation.

Haiku My Heart - Soul of my Soul

2011-01-28T14:47:00.010-05:00

Click to enlarge

soul of my soul––
together
traversing other worlds

The above photo was taken of my grandparents along some unknown lake shore, presumably after having just gotten their feet wet, sometime in the late 1940s or early '50s. Yes, the actual photo is of all of them – head to toe – but something about this piece of the picture just simply captured my imagination. I can't explain it. They were together for a long time in life, and I feel them together now. Somehow, this image speaks of that.

In an effort to preserve old 'memories' (some of which have only been told to us but feel like ours, just the same), we've been busy scanning lots of old family photos. Rather than trying to restore them to their original lustre, I have been embracing their imperfections and letting the photos gently reveal their secrets as I attempt to bring out the story in each instead. Old snapshots are grainy by nature, and decades of either fading or darkening offer a challenge. So far, I've been surprised by the results. Some are dream-like and almost other-worldly. Some feel as if the black-and-white subjects are ready to step through the frame into a world of color. Each image is a bit of poetry.

All are single moments in history, my family's history, and they lead me on a flight of fancy as I imagine what might have transpired before each click of the shutter. I will continue to work on them and plan to create an art book for the most interesting ones. Maybe one for each of my kids, too. That should keep me busy for awhile.

My mom at 16, dancing with my grandfather.
Photo was taken in 1956.
Judging by how often my grandma said that Grandpa had "two left feet", I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Mom was teaching him a few moves. ;)

Me, Mom and my brother, about 1968.
I love the effect of the sun shining through the windows behind us.

To haiku your heart, please visit Rebecca and company here. Join us if you feel so inspired.

Peace.

Haiku My Heart - Dreaming

2011-01-22T20:07:00.016-05:00

sun-soaked sand

tickles my toes & fancy––

through my window, snow

Ahhh....

Dreams of sun and sand sustain me through these times of bitter cold and endless gloom. The photo above was taken some summers ago where the Au Train river spills gently into Lake Superior, creating a warm pool perfect for swimming, in contrast to the chilly waters of the big lake. Sigh... it fills my soul. Do you hear the gulls?

I've been MIA for awhile, I know. The holidays were a strain, and were followed by a nice, persistent stomach virus that we just seemed to keep passing around and around. Blehh. I didn't think it would ever end, but thankfully we all seem to finally be over it. I just want to throw open the windows and breathe in fresh air, and let it flow through the house. Alas, with temps in the teens and single digits, I'll keep dreaming of warm sunshine and spring breezes for awhile, yet.

What do you think of the new blog attire? The company hosting my old background changed servers. In theory, all I had to do was grab the new code, plug it in and I'd be good to go. Nothing's ever as simple as it seems, though. I discovered that my old background was apparently 'retired', forcing me to find something new, which in turn necessitated an upgrade, and, of course, a new banner, etc., etc. So, here we are. For now, at least. I'm still considering... At least it pried me out of my winter rut and back into some semblance of creativity, and that's always a good thing. And I do love the colors. Fresh, like that spring breeze that keeps flirting at the edge of my dreams.

I apologize for my late offering to Haiku My Heart Friday, but I've spent the last two days entrenched in the blog remodel. I didn't want to post a brand new haiku on a half-dressed blog, after all. :)

Peace (and warmth!) to hearth and soul.

Haiku My Heart - Rockin' Robin

2010-12-24T02:25:00.003-05:00

out of place
against a winter sky
rockin' robin

He isn't rockin' around the Christmas tree, but Robin and I wish for each of you a heart filled with love this Christmas and moments to just breathe it all in. Breathe deeply...

Peace and warmth to hearth and home.

Haiku your heart here.

Silent Flowers

2010-12-18T12:19:00.006-05:00

Click to enlarge

Somehow, in the midst of making lists and researching gifts and recipes, etc., yesterday, I completely forgot that it was Friday, and therefore completely missed Haiku My Heart Friday. Well, I knew it was Friday, but just... forgot. Holidaze.

But I remembered when the mail delivery brought a lovely and thoughtful gift from my art sister, Barbara – a little book of Japanese haiku titled 'Silent Flowers'. It's filled with wonderful translations of the works of Basho, Issa, Buson and others, as the one in the photo above.

Here is an excerpt from the introduction:

"Wordsworth defined poetry as 'emotion recollected in tranquility.' Japanese haiku fulfill that definition with significance and beauty. They represent a whole world, a manner of daily living and a religious and poetic experience. Masters at recognizing a certain 'something' in unexpected situations, haiku poets recreate small moments discovered in the real world but suggesting the world of the spirit."

I think that sums it up very nicely. The book was edited by Dorothy Price and illustrated by Nanae Ito. Copyright 1967. Just lovely. I just want to sip my hot tea on this cold, gray winter day and read the springtime poems again and again.

I'll leave you with a few selections.

Sacred music at night;
Into the bonfires
Flutter the tinted leaves.

~Issa

Treading on the tail
Of the copper pheasant,
The setting sun of spring.

~Buson

The sound of tears
Hissing, quenching
The banked charcoal.

~Basho

Peace...

Haiku My Heart - Like the Moon and the Stars and the Sun

2010-12-10T12:47:00.009-05:00

Click to enlarge

a peaceful heart,
life interrupted–-
still we all shine on

This week marked the 30th anniversary of the shocking and violent death of a peace-loving soul. There was so much tragic irony in that single, senseless act that it still befuddles me today. I have to wonder what earthly wisdom and visionary creativity might have been birthed in that 30 years... I think John Lennon was just reaching his stride when his life was so rudely interrupted.

We'll never know.

Visit Rebecca and friends to haiku your heart with love.

Peace... and shine on....

Haiku My Heart - Sea Treasure

2010-12-03T17:30:00.005-05:00

Click to enlarge

The spiral theme continues. This little shell sits on a small porcelain dish on my desk. It reminds me of the Milky Way. Interesting connection, I know. :)

I cleaned my desk this week and unburied the rather large collection of beach stones, crystals, shells and other goodies that have taken up residence there. In fact, if it's possible I think they've multiplied under the stack of papers, art supplies and assorted Luke things that also collect on my desk. Each dish, bowl and cup in the photo below holds stones and crystals. Many are beach stones gathered from the shores of the Great Lakes over the years, including several Lake Superior agates and a neat specimen of a Petoskey stone. Some of the shells have traveled here from the ocean, from places like South Carolina, Florida and California.

Lots of crystals have found their way to me over the years, as well. I love the mystical and healing properties of stones and crystals. I enjoy being able to reach out and pick up whichever one speaks to me and feel its presence, the weight of it in my hand... the way its energy and spirit pulse gently into my own being.

My desk holds a nice representation of beautiful gifts from earth, sea and forest, millions of years in the making. Once and future treasures.

You'll find more haiku treasures here.

Peace.

Haiku My Heart – Full Circle

2010-11-26T11:03:00.012-05:00

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new generations,

old & new traditions––

full circle

My daughter cooked her first Thanksgiving meal this year – each dish from scratch, including the pies. She prepared our favorites and added a couple of new dishes to the spread. It was delicious, every morsel. We had our first holiday dinner at my son's new home (his first house). He has now claimed Thanksgiving as 'his' holiday. Works for me. :)

It was an interesting mix of strange (what? I don't have to cook... anything?) and gratifying. That feeling of things coming full circle. It was also the first holiday without my dad. Each bite of sweet potato or pecan pie (two of his favorites and mine) carried a memory... like the year I attempted to make a sugar-free pecan pie for him. It was pretty awful, but he bravely ate it, anyway.

Oh, and the picture above is Luke's very first "hand" turkey. He asked me to help him trace his hand and knew to make each feather a different color. Why his turkey has four legs, though, I don't quite know... Lately, he's all about family relations – figuring out how each member fits: "You're my daddy's mudder and you're MY gran-mudder". We look at lots of old, childhood photos of his daddy, aunt and uncle as he processes the fact that they were once kids like him – "And I'll be BIG and STRONG like my daddy when I grow up." Yes, but I hope that day doesn't come so fast. I'm thoroughly enjoying his delightful, three-year-old self.

Life is more of a spiral than a circle, as we pass the torch from one generation to the next.

Haiku your heart here, with Rebecca and friends.

Peace to your heart & soul.

Haiku My Heart - Regrets

2010-11-19T10:42:00.013-05:00

Click to enlarge

regrets fall like ashes
grace leans
into the coming storm

Another dual offering for Haiku My Heart Friday and AEDM today.

I tried a new technique ('Apply Image') for blending two photos in the above image. I love the result - thanks to Deana for sharing this easy Photoshop tutorial. Can't wait to play with the technique some more.

I have been a bit remiss in posting, but I have been working diligently on both map and doll for TAG, even taking photos along the way. I will post more very soon...

Meanwhile, visit the places above – they will haiku your heart and art your soul. Promise.

Peace.

Haiku My Heart – Bleeding Heart

2010-11-12T16:55:00.007-05:00

confined
by rusted steel and ice
a heart still bleeds

An offering for both Haiku My Heart Friday and AEDM.

Too often, in trying to protect our fragile hearts, we lose what's most precious. Our vulnerability is a gift that allows us to know ourselves. Another's vulnerability is a treasure that allows us to know them. It is an honor to be invited into another's secret heart, whatever the circumstances... and deeply sad if that treasure has been buried.

Peace to all hearts.

PS - Yes, the image is from the "With wings..." piece from the last post, further enhanced... I'm getting a lot of mileage from that original, haphazardly arranged photo... ;)

AEDM - Days 8 & 9: Leap of Faith

2010-11-09T21:42:00.010-05:00

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I was surprised when I realized what day we're on for AEDM. I knew I'd missed a couple of days, but didn't think four had passed since my last post.

The above image is from the last post, originally taken of the parts for my TAG doll, which I'd just dropped onto the background in the general areas of their actual anatomical belonging. If you look closely at the original, you can see the edges of said parts, rather haphazardly placed. But the image struck me and I knew I had to do something with it. Photoshop is such a fun playground.

Having explained all of that, this is what I worked on yesterday, adding some finishing details today.

I like it... and think it also speaks to the TAG journey. (No... I haven't gotten any further on the actual TAG art stuff – sigh.)

I'm going to leave you with this energetic burst of inspiration. If you have HBO, please take some time to check out the Brave New Voices series. And I love this artist, Iyeoka Ivie Okoawo.

Peace.

AEDM - Days 4 & 5: TAG Art Beginnings

2010-11-05T23:45:00.006-04:00

Well, at last I've been working on some of the TAG journey stuff. I've been playing around with a map but am not quite sure where it's going. The above version was created in Photoshop. I'm not so sure about it. Maybe after I take colored pencils to it I'll like it better. I guess the beauty of a map like this is that it will unfold as I go (ha, pun intended). To that end, I have the blank beginnings which will actually become part of the story:

Next up, the doll that will represent me at the Guild Hall during my travels. This has also been a tough one for me. I originally wanted her base to be formed of twigs but haven't had much luck locating some that are small enough. So I have decided to start with a paper base, which I've cut from water color paper:

Here are some fabric possibilities for her body and clothing:

That's it for now. I hope to make some progress this week-end. I worked on the map yesterday, but was just too tired to post last night.

Unfortunately, I didn't have a chance again this week to join in the Haiku My Heart Friday fun. Sigh. Next week for certain.

Peace!

AEDM - Clouds

2010-11-04T00:00:00.010-04:00

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The original image of clouds was taken at sunset from my driveway. A few layers of texture (and a little verse) later...

Day 3.

Find more here.

AEDM - "The Rabbit Hole Is Open, Alice"

2010-11-02T21:05:00.003-04:00

Click image to enlarge

If you tilt your head at just the right angle and squint...

Some digital art for the TAG journey. And Day Two of Art Every Day Month. Yeah!

Peace, friends.

November Is Art Every Day Month

2010-11-01T21:07:00.006-04:00

Rustic Layered Hanging Star

While some of my friends dive into November with the brutal NaNoWriMo challenge, I came across this instead. I tried NanoWrimo once and produced about 10,000 words of utter garbage. ;) The goal being 50,000 words of hopefully at least salvageable writing, I wasn't even close for an entire month of effort.

I like AEDM's rules, which are, basically, to create. Something. Anything. Whenever. I think I can handle that. It doesn't even have to be every day... how do you like that for relaxed? No pressure, just enjoy. So today I finished up the last of a set of four hanging stars for the Anton Art Center's "Wish Upon A Star" holiday exhibition fundraiser.

I'm a member of a year-long art and writing venture with more than 2 dozen other artists that began last month. There are several art projects to create along the way and I'm already behind. I decided that AEDM might give me the kick start to work on these projects. The story is eager to be told and the art thus far wants to take a back seat. I'm trying to honor that process and just allow it to be what it is, but I really do feel the need to get moving on the art work.

More about the Travelling Artist's Guild and that journey soon... (probably when I have some actual art to share...)

Meanwhile, here is the set of stars for the exhibition.

Peace.

Tricks or Treats?

2010-10-31T18:39:00.002-04:00

All Hallow's Eve…
hungry ghosts whisper
poetic refrains

~~~

All Hallow's Eve….
jack-o-lantern
grins at the moon

~~~

All Hallow's Eve...
dead leaves and haints
waltz with the wind

I ran right out of time to participate in last Friday's Haiku My Heart, but here are a few treats to welcome Samhain. Better than candy corn, I hope. ;)

Need a (very) last minute costume idea? Check out these costumes from a century ago. (Thanks, Jeanne.)

Peace to your Hallowe'en soul.

Haiku My Heart - Last Dance

2010-10-22T11:12:00.005-04:00

The weather has suddenly turned blustery, as October whirls and prances so swiftly toward November. Up until yesterday evening, we were without heat as we awaited parts for a furnace repair. Just in time, too, as we had our first hard frost of the season last night. How nice it was to be toasty warm whilst the banshees outside practiced their wails and moans.

We've had a gorgeous fall, beautifully sunny with bright blue skies and little rain. The leaves are starting to disappear quickly, now, and soon enough the trees will stand naked against wintry skies. Until then, though, I want to inhale every bit of autumn's sweet, crisp fragrance and feast my eyes on her rich palette.

Here are a few photos taken during a drive through the country and along Lake Huron and the St. Clair River last week-end.

For more wonderful ways to haiku your heart, please visit Recuerda Mi Corazon.

Peace to your soul.

Haiku My Heart - "Wraith"

2010-10-15T11:17:00.001-04:00

Click to enlarge

Must be the season... I'm feeling the call of the night, of all the hidden secrets and mysteries that take up residence in the deepest corners of my soul. As we approach the time when the veil betwixt worlds grows thinnest, the pull grows ever stronger.

Do you feel it?

Haiku your wild, freaky heart with Rebecca and friends.

Peace to your bonfires...

The Summons

2010-10-13T00:33:00.008-04:00

Click to enlarge

Little Suska has just been summoned by a human child.

It has been decided by a gathering of the Council that she will serve no less than one year's time on Earth in companionship to the child, in order to restore her wings, and as restitution for her endless bouts of mischief upon both humans and her own folk alike. Suska's wings have been turned upside down. She can only fly short distances, and in a very crooked path, at that. She has discovered, though, that she can fly backwards quite well.

Navigation, however, is another matter.

Let the cock-eyed magic begin...

The image of the faery girl is from a vintage photo shared by Amanda Howard on the Creative Souls group.

(a little tale for Luke)

Haiku My Heart - The Pleiades

2010-10-08T10:07:00.019-04:00

Click image to enlarge

seductive night dance

beckons us home

~stardust

There are few things more captivating and mysterious to me than the night sky. This beautiful painting, entitled 'The Pleiades', was completed by American artist Elihu Vedder in 1885. The star cluster Pleiades, also known as The Seven Sisters, is estimated to be about 115 million years old. Wow. That really puts some kind of perspective on our human existence, doesn't it? Soon this cluster will be a prominent feature of the night sky here in the northern hemisphere. The myth and mystery surrounding these lovely 'sisters' is plentiful and alluring.

One of my favorite sites is APOD - Astronomy Picture of the Day. Compare this image with Vedder's painting - how perfectly he captured those cosmic sisters.

Many a night I saw the Pleiads, rising thro’ the mellow shade,
Glitter like a swarm of fireflies tangled in a silver braid.
~ Lord Tennyson

Haiku your cosmic heart at Recuerdo Mi Corazon.

Peaceful stargazing...

we are stardust
we are golden
we are billion year old carbon
and we've got to get ourselves
back to the garden...

Haiku My Heart - Hello, October

2010-09-30T21:37:00.028-04:00

Click to enlarge

Clear, turquoise skies and warm breezes have blessed our little corner these past few days. Temperatures have been closer to the norm for this time of year, after erratically jumping up and down the thermometer for a couple of weeks. Summer has to have her last hurrah and I am more than happy to oblige her.

There will be frost on the pumpkins in the blink of an eye, so I'm enjoying these balmy days with windows wide open - an invitation to those gracefully twirling wind sprites.

For more Haiku My Heart Friday goodies, Rebecca has what you need right here.

Peace to your soul.

Fly Free - Mixed Media Art

2010-09-28T00:10:00.005-04:00

A sweet and charming little art tutorial with a worthwhile message. Just had to share.

Tam is also offering a free, four-week course called 'The Heart of Art', on art and healing that sounds pretty detailed and interesting. Check out that video here.

Peas and hominy...

Season of the Crow

2010-09-25T21:46:00.025-04:00

I did this piece in late July. I've been feeling Crow's energy around me for several months, now. It's interesting to me, because crows have never been one of my favorite birds. Until now. I truly think this was a by-product of Alfred Hitchcock's movie, 'The Birds', which I saw as a young child. It left me with an eerie impression of these magnificent creatures for many years. So much so that thoughts of the movie made me shudder well into my teens. I associated crows with death. Maybe so, but perhaps not in the way I originally imagined.

I love how Nature assists us on this path as we traverse our earthly journeys. Instinctively, I've always been drawn to certain animals – large cats (tigers, lions, jaguars), elephants, bears, owls, hawks. I know these are my totem animals. Black Panther (Jaguar) is my power animal. Others may come into our lives to assist us from time to time (note Dragonfly's influence on this blog), according to what we need in the moment. Paying attention to these subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) hints can give us a clue as to the messages we need to heed. There is much good information online to help you discern a particular messenger's purpose. Google 'totem animals' or 'animal medicine'.

Here's what birdclan.org has to say, in part, about Crow:

"Crow is the left-handed guardian. Crow knows the unknowable mysteries of creation and is the keeper of all sacred law. There are several species of crow. Raven is one of these and magpies are another. Crow medicine people are masters of illusion. Do not try to figure crow out. It is the power of the unknown at work, and something special is about to happen.

Crow is also the guardian of ceremonial magic and healing. In any healing circle, Crow is present. Crow guides the magic of healing and the change in consciousness that will bring about a new reality and dispel "dis-ease" or illness. You can rest assure when ever crows are around, magic is near by and you are about to experience a change in consciousness. Crow can give you the courage to enter the darkness of the void, which is the home of all that is not yet in form."

Very intriguing.

Check out these images of Black Panther... now behold Emily, my kitty companion for the past 15 1/2 years:

She chose me long before I became aware of (or 'relearned') totems and animal medicine. She looks so fierce, doesn't she? Ha. She definitely envisions herself as a stealthy and powerful jungle kitty. She often sleeps above my head – her way of 'protecting' me while I'm asleep. She's very attuned to the subtle energies that surround us, always on the alert. More than any animal companion I've had.

While Panther symbolizes ferocity and aggressiveness, it's interesting to note that Ted Andrews, author of Animal-Speak, associates Black Panther with the feminine lunar energy:

"Of all the panthers, probably the Black Panther has the greatest mysticism associated with it. It is the symbol of the feminine, the dark mother, the dark of the moon. It is the symbol for the life and power of the night. It is a symbol of the feminine energies manifest upon the earth."

If you're unsure of your totem animals and would like to know what virtues they offer you, quiet meditation on any animals that have attracted you is a good place to start. Followed by some research and then reflection on how what you find might be applicable to your life. Open your heart and mind... and listen.

Native Americans and other Earth guardians left us a legacy of wisdom and knowledge. The best way to honor them is to acknowledge and use the gifts they've given us. It's a fascinating journey, isn't it?

Peace...

Haiku My Heart - Call of the Wild

2010-09-23T23:51:00.015-04:00

a glorious harvest wut?

not on my watch. . .

(wild thing)

The pitfalls of domestication.

How about you? Does the season call to you? Does it tease and tug at something primal deep within?

Did you howl at the glorious Harvest Moon?

More haiku for your wild, secret heart at Rebecca's place.

Peace...

Sailing the Titanic

2010-09-21T16:37:00.008-04:00

Click to view full size

This image started with a pencil drawing of a face, in fact one of the faces in my last post – the Goddess of Autumn. I happened on it when I was looking for the pictures for that post and thought that I really wanted to do more with it.

Have I mentioned that I really love Photoshop? ;)

There's a haunting feel to the finished piece... is she watching through a cabin window aboard a sinking vessel... or is her spirit part of the images reflected in glass?

What is her story?

A Suzi Class

2010-09-19T13:46:00.012-04:00

Goddesses of Summer and Autumn

I don't think I ever posted these drawings completed a year ago here, but with the seasons in the midst of their mesmerizing tango, moving gracefully from summer to fall, now is as good a time as any, yes?

Last summer, I took a portrait drawing class online with Suzi Blu and it was nothing short of amazing for me. The class was called 'The Goddess and the Poet' and it reawakened something within that had long been silenced but had begun to scritch and scratch and niggle its way back into my awareness. Suzi's class came at the perfect time – I was ready to reopen a door that I'd shut many long years before but had little idea how to go about it. The urge to pick up pencils and draw once again had been pulling and tugging at me for awhile. I've always been fascinated with faces but felt that I lacked the skills to properly draw them.

I blogged about the class at the time. My grandmother had recently passed away and Suzi's class was just the kick in the pants I needed to get back to art-making. And poetry, too? Had the sky just opened and rained sparkly juju down uponst my dumbstruck self? How did Suzi know?? Hmm...

Suffice it to say that I loved it. I was drawing faces night and day. I was holding pencils in my hand and making marks on paper – and they weren't half bad. Wow.

In the photo above, the faces were drawn in a sketchbook, torn out and placed in a journal before embellishing with layers of color and texture.

A Suzi class is enlightening, thorough and just fun. You can find one at Suzi Blu's Les Petite Academy.

I'll leave you with another drawing (and a poem) from the class:

Gypsy Moon

she dances with Venus
under a dark Gypsy sky
&stars tumble

they spill from her lips––
sapphire offerings
glittering in dusty corners:

gather your dreams
like lost children
from the far places

draw write paint

dance sing
the magick of Self

weep

&laugh
&remember...

she turns, hums
floats on a whisper
kisses the Gypsy Moon––
eclipses the Moon
&stars tumble

© Deborah Gilchrist

Haiku My Heart

2010-09-17T12:21:00.008-04:00

Click image to enlarge

Though the calendar says we still have a few more days, Autumn has been sneaking her way in. And although I welcome the change, the wonderful sensory cornucopia, it's always sad to see another summer pass, isn't it? Soon she'll be fading fast.

Please visit Rebecca's blog for more Haiku My Heart Friday gifts. Join in, if you feel so inspired.

Peace.

Free Falling...

2010-09-14T11:57:00.008-04:00

Click on image to enlarge.

Last week, I was featured in my first ever treasury on Etsy – what fun. I've said it before – I heart Etsy. I spend a lot of time browsing, often the great treasuries that others put together. There's never a shortage of wonderful, creative artsy things to please the eye, and heart and soul, too. Very inspiring to see what others are creating.

I decided to share the love by curating my first ever treasury. Now THAT was fun. Autumn is on the way... my favorite time of year. It's a total feast for all the senses. I immersed myself in so much autumn loveliness putting together this treasury, it was hard to narrow it down. I may have to do another! I think this could be addicting.

In 'Free Falling...', I chose items that were colorful, of course, but also perhaps just a bit unusual or extraordinary in some way. I hope you'll take a peek and leave us a comment.

Enjoy!

Haiku My Heart - Angels We Have Heard On High :)

2010-09-09T21:59:00.020-04:00

angelic choir––
divine raspberry
serenade

This image was created from a photo of my grandson, taken at his third birthday party last week-end. The pose, captured by his Uncle Philip, was so angelic and sweet that I just had to have some fun with it. When he saw the original, he giggled and said, "I was makin' silly noises on my arm!" Oh, so much for angelic. Ha.

Thank goodness for the little ones and their gusto for living in the moment. They have a magical way of instantly making us forget sadness or worry or whatever less-than-happy emotion we might be momentarily stuck within.

Today, in anticipation of getting to ride his new bike, this happy, little soul ran to the open window, pressed his face to the screen and exclaimed, "Hi World! Whaddaya doin'? I comin' outside in a minnit!"

Such delightful exuberance. Watch out, World. :)

Please visit the lovely Rebecca's blog and follow the yellow brick road to gently open, fill and haiku your heart.

Peace.

Haiku My Heart

2010-08-20T11:01:00.010-04:00

UPDATE 8-31: My dad passed away on Monday, August 23rd. He fought with everything he had, but in the end, he was just too worn out to continue. Now healing must commence for those of us left behind. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to stop by and read my posts, and to those who have shared their hearts, too. And especially, thank you for the caring you have shown. Words will never be able to express my gratitude.

~~~

Still waters run deep.

Watching someone slowly make their way back into this world from the nebulous depths of a closed head injury reminds me of this proverb. While everything on the surface appears still, we can only guess at what is churning below, or how deeply consciousness has submerged while the body heals. The occasional ripple of response that breaks the surface gives us only a hint (and hope!), just as the calm veneer of a quiet lake or river doesn't tell of the life teeming below.

Miracles do happen. Our family has been blessed by your prayers and your healing thoughts and energies, and we are so grateful. Thank you.

Once again, the original photo was taken by my son, Philip. Thanks, Philip.

The path to haiku your heart begins on Rebecca's blog. Enjoy.

Peace to every hearth and home.

~Deb

Haiku My Heart

2010-08-05T16:56:00.039-04:00

weathered and worn
fog seeps in––
half caff? are you kidding me?

After a recent string of sleepless nights, I was mortified one early morning to discover that the only coffee in the house was half caff. That situation has been quickly rectified.

An alternate 'ku (or senryu):

weathered and worn
in morning's haze
toss one more scoop in the pot

The original image was photographed by my son, Philip (who really needs a website to showcase his gorgeous photography). He generously allows me to use his photos as my playground and I am thrilled.

Please visit Rebecca's blog for more Haiku My Heart Friday treats.

(Some of the original text was removed from this post out of love and respect for family members during this difficult time. Thank you for your understanding.)

Full Moon Muse Madness – The Reveal

2010-07-27T00:47:00.015-04:00

Stella came through! Pete's Muse saw to it that my full moon respite was, outwardly, fairly quiet as she gently prodded me to try something completely new and different, something that I've been intending to try for awhile. It's only about a minute long, but whew... it took a LOT of editing. That is, you know, after all of the digital images were completed to satisfaction. Not having ever used iMovie (or anything similar), there was some time involved in uncovering the little quirks of the program, but overall, it's fairly simple. Of course, I used only stills and no actual video but now that I have tripped through the process, I have a whole stack of Luke clips awaiting some iMovie magic.

Watch out. ;)

For a larger format, you can view 'Gestation' directly on You Tube (mouse over the lower right corner of the video screen and click on the You Tube icon that appears). Sadly, full screen format doesn't translate quite as well with embedded videos. It isn't terrible but not as crisp as the original, and so a little disappointing to me. If there's a trick to this, I haven't yet discovered it. But hey, at least I got it this far.

Pete also had a clever rendezvous with my Muse. A perfectly delightful must-read, complete with a nod to chocolate.

All in all, an interesting and enjoyable experience. Truly inspired. Pete's Muse reminded me that sometimes we just need to jump in with both feet and embrace whatever comes. Thanks, Stella and Quinn! Other results are here... check back at this link for more as they are posted.

Bemused?

2010-07-24T03:35:00.021-04:00

Recently, on the 14 Secrets group, Quinn proposed a very intriguing idea. She suggested that we identify what characteristic(s) our Muses exhibit that might actually hinder our creative process. Then... she suggested that we exchange Muses for a short time, to see what ours might inspire in another person and vice versa. Whoa – crazy. But hey, it might just work. Check out her blog post at the link above to see what other folks' madcap Muses have been up to (or not up to, as the case may be).

Quinn did the swapping and assigned each of us our new Muse. I exchanged with Pete, who thinks he doesn't have a Muse. Quinn is certain she's there, and, well... I will give away no secrets before their time. I did give Pete a wee clue, though, about my sometimes-fickle Muse. Quite often, she will work for a bit of chocolate. Good chocolate. A glass of wine sweetens the deal. Sometimes, a glass of wine goes a long way. Hmm, I'm not sure if I mentioned that.

We've been encouraged to tap into the upcoming full moon energy. Creativity always overflows for me during a full moon, so this will be interesting. We are to create in whatever form our visiting Muses wish to explore. Pete's Muse and I have become acquainted. (No pressure, Pete.) I'm very interested to see how everyone fares with their guest Muses.

Now you might be wondering what the photo above has to do with any of this. Nothing, really.... unless your Muse is fast asleep.... or perhaps to serve as a reminder that rest and nourishment are needed to fuel our Muses... feel free to stretch it however you choose.

Truth is, the munchkin fell asleep in his dinner. I can't share what I'm working on for the Muse exchange with you just yet, so I took advantage of this opportunity to express my grandma vibe. ;)

Someone I know is squeezing every ounce out of his summertime experience. Just like his daddy (who also never-ever-ever wanted to come in out of the rain). And, just like his daddy, he falls asleep in his dinner. (Somewhere, I have a photo of his dad, at the same age, actually asleep on his feet. Really.)

The Muse is alive and well in this little guy. I so enjoy watching him at play, allowing even the smallest things to spark his imagination. Everything is possible in his world.

The moon is half past waxing gibbous. Pete's Muse (I call her Stella) and I will catch ya on the flip side.

Haiku My Heart - The Earl of Grey

2010-07-23T00:52:00.008-04:00

It's hard to believe another week has gone by so quickly and it's time for a new haiku. I've been a bit under the weather for a couple of days and it sort of snuck up on me.

There's nothing more soothing than a hot cup of tea, especially when you're not feeling so well or on a rainy day. I'm very fortunate to have a beautiful collection of tea cups that belonged to my grandmother. Over the years, I've added to them so now the china cabinet they occupy is filled to capacity. I love the vintage patterns and the delicacy of each set. Some are very unique and one day I'll get around to photographing all of them.

This photo also includes my rather beat-up copper tea pot. A favorite of mine - very gypsy. :)

As for tea, okay - I admit to having an Earl Grey addiction. I love the stuff. Any other tea addicts out there? What's your favorite? I'm a coffee drinker, too, but nothing on this earth warms these ol' bones more than a cuppa tea. Mmmm... so comforting...

There's more haiku to be found here... brew yourself a fresh cup and enjoy.

Haiku My Heart - The Butterfly Effect

2010-07-16T09:17:00.010-04:00

unaware

as we hold our breath––

somewhere, a light shines

In the wake of oil spills and other destruction, does Nature know our reverence?

More lovely Haiku My Heart Friday offerings at Rebecca's....

~~~

Coming very soon... news on Muse swap... (Intrigued? So was I...)

The beautiful photo above was taken by my friend, Sam. (Click to enlarge image.)

Haiku My Heart

2010-07-09T11:39:00.010-04:00

(Click image to enlarge.)

Haiku My Heart Friday here...

(Edit: revised haiku):

ribbons gently caress
the shore...
belie the brewing tempest

Haiku My Heart

2010-07-02T17:31:00.009-04:00

from one transformation

to the next

tattered wings soar

Haiku My Heart Friday - Love this. Fabulous idea. Thank you!

A note about my haiku (in case you were wondering... ;)

I subscribe to the minimalist approach. Luckily for me, western haiku does not have to follow the 5-7-5 dictates of Japanese haiku; in fact, most does not. Haiku is a soft note carried on a gentle breeze... that can offer a powerful impact. Like being knocked over with a feather. :) As it was explained to me, a haiku should be able to be read in one breath. Yes. Feels right. The English language is too bulky, too cumbersome to aptly express the nature of haiku in 17 syllables.

Just my coupla cents. It is ingrained in us that 5-7-5 is the way, but if you like a bit of a challenge, give minimalist haiku a try.

This explains it simply (and probably more clearly than I have).

Oh, and as some of you probably recognize, the photo is another from my fun fun fun class with Lani.

Have a delightful week-end.

Sweet Summer Solstice

2010-06-21T00:02:00.007-04:00

This sweet faery was created for a charm swap in honor of Fairy Day, on June 24th. Fairy Day was founded by artist Jessica Galbreth, whose beautiful, dreamy fairy paintings enchant believers everywhere.

The image is from a 1920s salon ad. I think she looks a little like Helen Hunt, don't you? The embellishments are all done in Photoshop, using, of course, lessons learned in Lani's class.

Her poem reads:

Solstice Dreams

I dream of the sweet perfume
of honeysuckle
of summer rain &sand

Of sea treasures
&forest flowers
cradled in my hand

Tiny jewels
in a crown of stars
that dance both day &night

Gathered on a zephyr's song––
by couriers
of winged delight

(©Deborah Gilchrist)

Just a little summer song.

Pics of faery charms coming soon. Meanwhile, wrap yourself in the magic of the solstice... and keep your eyes open for the fae folk... you never know where they might be hiding.

Dream A Little Dream... and other goodies

2010-06-07T15:59:00.018-04:00

I signed up for Lani's Fotoshop Fun class over on her blog. Finally, I am learning how to do all the neat things I knew could be done in PS. Learning on your own is fine, but there are always little tricks that others can teach you that can make worlds of difference in whatever it is you're doing. In just a few short days, I've learned so much that I don't want to stop. Today, I learned to create my own brushes – huzzah! A creative monster has been unleashed. ;)

Here's the one I've made so far:

So easy – who knew? This was inspired by this song by Cass Elliot (The Mamas and Papas). Love her clear, sweet voice.

I've spent most of my time these past couple of days creating a new blog banner. The one you see at the top of the page is several dozen incarnations into the process. I think it still needs a bit of tweaking (but then I always do). I started with a photo of a dragonfly necklace I made for my daughter. I love the original photo, with its vintage paper fan for a backdrop:

Lani also introduced an interesting blog challenge to the 14 Secrets group. She posed a list of nine questions to be answered using art, photos, etc. You can read more about it on the 14 Secrets blog.

Because of the process of creating each answer in art form, I think I'll do maybe one or two at a time. The first is "Who are you?"

As I read through and consider the rest of the questions, I think this might be better answered at the end... We are always who we truly are at our very core, but it's our perception of that person that changes over time, again and again. And our perceptions color our behavior, so when we say we (or someone else) have 'changed', I think what we really mean is that we have perhaps come to know ourselves a little better. What do you think?

I don't like doing self portraits. Yet, they offer an opportunity to express who we are in a given moment. As I was creating one for a challenge in the Creative Souls Ning group, I thought I would also use it to answer the first question in Lani's challenge, as well. (Or maybe that was the other way around... hmm...) Again, I used many of the techniques learned in Lani's class:

"Peace out..."

It's a little scary to me to put it out there... like poetry – something so personal and from the soul. I can write and share 'til the cows come home but some things are a little more soul-baring.

I'll look at this again when I've completed Lani's questions... and decide if my perception has changed...

Thank you, Lani, for so often keeping me on my creative toes.

Dream a little dream...

(Click on images to enlarge)

Gothic Arches Book Collaboration

2010-05-27T13:46:00.010-04:00

From a recently-completed 14 Secrets swap:

The theme of this swap was Summer Solstice. Each of us created pages and front and back covers that our talented and brilliant swap host, Gena, mixed up and somehow bound and turned into beautiful books (note the sweet butterfly latch on the cover). I love these collaborations. They take awhile to complete, but what returns is such a powerful and beautiful treasure that holds a little of the artistic soul of each participant – an eclectic collection of styles that always seem to complement one another so well. So worth the wait.

The artists appear in the following order:

Gena
Carol
Barb
Lore
Joyce
Gioia
Kathy
Susanna
Deb
Lani

Thanks to each of you for your contribution to this special book. I can't stop opening it up and finding something new to love each time.

Busy Days

2010-05-20T12:46:00.013-04:00

Haven't posted in a couple of weeks, though I keep thinking about it.... I've been busily creating, and tend to lose all track of time in the creation process. You know the feeling?

I've been making jewelry of all kinds, including barefoot sandals (pictured above). The lovely foot model is my daughter. I'm determined to re-open my Etsy shop, so a good deal of my time has been spent taking pictures, pictures, pictures in an effort to get 3-4 decent ones for each piece. That translates into dozens of photos for each piece. Then there's the listing of each piece....

Oh, yeah. I remember. :)

It has always been the bane of creative folks that the business side of things takes up more time than the creating. There's everything to be said for making art for art's sake. But it has come time for me to send my creations further out into the world, and Etsy seems like a good place to start. I heart Etsy. It's the first place I look for nearly anything. My last foray on Etsy as seller was a bit too daunting. I was never happy with my photos. I think, though, that I might have learned a few things because the photos are perhaps a little better this time around. Or, is it possible that I've relaxed my perfectionist tendencies a bit? Nahhh... still working on that.

Here's a sneak peek. I love using my grandmother's teacups and saucers as props. They're so pretty and delicate.

And, not to be left out, Luke offered up his mad modeling skills:

The fresh peach iced tea is done, so I'm off to enjoy a glass and take MORE photos. Thank goodness for digital. More info on my Etsy space soon...

The Last Autumn Leaves

2010-05-02T12:03:00.005-04:00

Even though I didn't know Sondra Ball very well, I appreciated her long-time commitment to poets and poetry. I enjoyed the vivid seasonal images of her world that she shared through her words in each publication of Autumn Leaves and felt that I got to know her just a little bit better with every one I read. I was happy to be included in her outreach and was saddened when it seemed apparent earlier this year that her time here was nearing completion. She has left a legacy that honors poetry and poets everywhere, not least of all Sondra, herself.

There are many wonderful poetic tributes to Sondra in this, The Last Autumn Leaves. Her husband, Mario, has done an exemplary job of putting this final issue together. I haven't been able to read it without wiping away tears. Please be sure to read Sondra's own poetry, as it speaks of a gentle-natured soul and her journey. (Sondra's work is listed at the bottom of the table of contents.)

To say that she will be missed doesn't seem enough. But I believe that the outpouring of poetry in response to Mario's call expresses the magnitude of that sentiment. Her passing leaves a void but her spirit truly lives on.

Here are the links to my poems in this issue, but please do yourself a favor and don't stop there.

Aleutian Ripples
Dark Wing

Peace.

April Waxes Poetic

2010-04-26T12:58:00.008-04:00

Before the month ends, I have to post this in honor of National Poetry Month. The books in the photo were created probably close to 20 years ago by my oldest child, Philip. It was a delight to find them in a dusty box of such and sundry childhood treasures. They now occupy a place on the shelf above my desk.

The first book is untitled, but here is the intro:

"Hi! My name is Philip. I am going to tell you about my six cats. Here are their names in order. Furry, Miss Moppet, Mr. Magoo, Orange Sherbert, Doodle, and Cecelia J. (C.J. for short). I hope you enjoy the book!"

The book goes on to describe the adventures of a boy and his many cats, complete with crayon illustrations. Too precious.

Note: No, we didn't have all of these kitties at once... the first one was actually named 'Furry Ann' (okay, he was three), and we did go on to have many more following Cecelia, the majority of them rescues. I also have no recollection of Doodle climbing a tree (but that doesn't necessarily mean it didn't happen ;)

The other book is titled 'Poems by Phil G.' Here is a sampling (the first one is sibling joy immortalized, heh):

"Nonrhyming

My sister,
My brother,
They drive me crazy!
I try to build a snowman,
I ask them for some help,
What do they answer,
No No No!
I'd rather build my own.
They ask me for some help,
I answer fine!
I try to build a snow fort,
I help my sister with hers,
I ask her for some help,
But she'd rather destroy
The one I built."

"Haiku

The seasons are great,
It is a wonderful day,
I shall leave to play."

And on that cheerful note, I shall do the same. :)

What Is It??

2010-04-12T09:53:00.007-04:00

If you guessed a large juice bottle filled with artsy goodies, well, you are exactly right. ;)

Over on the art swap group I belong to (14 Secrets For A Happy Artist's Life), we decided it was time to destash and share. The swap host thought it would be great to stuff a bottle with goodies and mail it, as is, and so a "bottle o' fun" round robin was born.

The idea is that each participant takes a few things out and then replaces them with goodies from her stash, and sends it along to the next player.

Yep, allll of this stuff came out that bottle. I've chosen my goodies, now to get it all back in there... plus my additions.

In the end, each person will make something using items chosen from the bottle and send it to the person who mailed the bottle to them.

I have to tell you that my daughter brought the mail home the day this bottle arrived. She was mildly mortified (and amused) because there were other folks present when she extricated the bottle from the mailbox.

Around here, you just never know what strange and wonderful things might spill out of a mailbox... heh. :)

Spring Peeps

2010-04-06T12:27:00.012-04:00

Springtime has been pulling and tugging at my dormant muse, gently waking her from her winter slumbers. Thank goodness! Buds are just popping out on the trees and finally the grass is showing signs of green. Elsewhere flowers are coloring the earth but here it will be May before we see tulips, even with all the lovely, warm weather we've been enjoying.

The picture of little, wire-wrapped birds' nests has been floating around in my brain for awhile and I finally got around to making some. Though my left thumb is still a little swollen and tender, necessitating a band-aid and making this endeavor a bit clumsy. Still, I had fun playing with the different color and size combinations and will make a few more.

These little delights came in the mail yesterday. I love them. The depth of the color on each piece is so pretty, pictures do not do them justice. I am seeing so many possibilities...

To punctuate spring's arrival, we enjoyed lovely thunderstorms all night long and then another today, followed by a loud and boisterous hail storm. The hail was HUGE, bouncing off the windows and skylights – for awhile we had to shout to be heard above the percussion. Crazy!

Melting fast...

I have recently noticed the song of a lone bird in the middle of the night. So lovely and unexpected, echoing across the stillness... Curious, I did a little research and think it might be the Northern Mockingbird, also called the American Nightingale. Check out its song here. The male sings in spring. I've taken to listening for him when I'm awake at 2 a.m.

Hope you are enjoying the season, too.

Other Folks' Treasures

2010-03-24T14:11:00.017-04:00

Actually, the bowl in the photo is my treasure, made by my son, Philip. I was busy in the kitchen on Sunday and when I returned to my desk, there it was. Nice surprise.

Here are some close-ups of the glaze inside. I love the way it blooms. Up close, it reminds me of nebulae, very cosmic:

I see faces in everything... (am I the only one?)

Do you see them? (Clicking on the images will enlarge them.)

I love Philip's work (and not just because I might be a wee little bit prejudiced ;)... 'Pillow's Pots' are evolving into beautiful works of art.

I also read this poem today and really appreciated it. How fitting to accompany these images. Please enjoy the work of poet Angela Kublik on Daily Haiku.

Is It Spring, Yet?

2010-03-18T19:13:00.019-04:00

Yeah, it has been awhile again... no excuses, I've just been uninspired for a time. A serious case of winter blahs, methinks. As I'd hoped, spring-like weather has perked me up and I'm feeling a little lighter and brighter and ready to find my creative mojo once again. (You might have noticed the spruce-up to this space... time for a new spring look.)

Yes, the weather has been gorgeous, just like that. One day it was winter and then – poof! Two full weeks of lovely, lovely sun and warmer temps. And it isn't even the equinox yet, huzzah! My little grandson is happy that he can ride his bike without having to navigate snow beasties.

Some good things have happened, the best being the birth of my niece, Juliette, on March 2nd. We have all waited a long time for her arrival and my brother and his wife finally obliged. ;) I'm working on a special way-too-cute something for her. Pics of the finished work hopefully soon.

All that leprechaun-chasing yesterday paid off. Today I was informed that I've won the giveaway at the Make and Take s website. A $50.00 gift certificate to the Add A Dangle Etsy shop – how lucky is that? Have you seen this shop? Omigosh, charms and pendants and all manner of gemstone danglies. I've been sneak-peeking, trying to decide what delights I might choose. And just in time. I've been hankering to do some beading but have been hampered by an injured thumb. You don't realize just how much you miss a thumb until one is out of commission for a time, heh.

But a regular, ol' band-aid is doing the job now – bring on the beads.

Thank you to Marie from Make and Take s for having this giveaway and to Add A Dangle for such a generous gift offer. Please do take a few minutes to check out both sites.

Let me know what you think of the new blog look. I'm still twiddling with it. I really like the scroll work. A banner update might be in order, too.

~~~

On a sadder note, I'd like to offer condolences to the family of Sondra Ball, publisher of the online poetry journal, Autumn Leaves, for a number of years. Her work was truly a labor of love and Sondra's absence leaves an empty space not easily filled. Safe travels, Sondra.

~~~

Now go outside and play.

Craft Hope for Haiti

2010-01-19T20:32:00.008-05:00

===== UPDATE =====

As of yesterday (Wednesday) morning, Craft Hope for Haiti raised over $20,000 for Doctors Without Borders. WOW. The bracelet shown above and the necklace I donated have been sold, but new items are constantly being listed, so please check back to see what's available. They are not accepting more item donations for a couple of weeks so they can get caught up (the response has been that overwhelming), but if you would like to donate an item, do check back.

~~~

Craft Hope for Haiti is an Etsy shop started by Jade Sims and Sarah Jackson to raise funds for Doctors Without Borders, for their work in Haiti. Many artists and artisans have donated a wide variety of items and sales have been brisk. As of earlier today, according to the Craft Hope blog, sales were approaching $10,000. Wow, not bad for a shop that has only been open for a few days.

When I asked Jade about accountability, she assured me that the funds are going into a dedicated account and receipts will be posted on the Craft Hope blog.

I am offering this bracelet and this necklace.

Please take a look around while you're there. So many delightful offerings. What a great way to support a dire cause.

Kudos to Jade and Sarah and their hard-working volunteers for a phenomenal job.

More Gothic Arches

2010-01-10T17:10:00.019-05:00

Has Christmas really come and gone? Are we really already well into 2010? How does this happen? While it's nice to have the decorations put away (with a kitten and a 2-yr-old in the house, the tree was looking a bit disheveled), I do miss the fresh smell of pine and all the twinkle and sparkle. It seems to me that, of all the months, January could use a little sparkle (other than all that glistening snowww).

In the spirit of extending the spirit a little longer, here are some images of the mixed media Gothic arch Christmas books I made for the Anton Art Center's Christmas Market. I thoroughly enjoyed creating these books... picking and choosing the antique buttons, fabrics, ribbons, trims and images for each page and putting them together to suggest a hint of a story ready to unfold. The backgrounds consist of layers of acrylic paints, sanded and enhanced with a copper leaf pen. I used imagery by Debrina Pratt, who creates lovely, digitally-enhanced works from old images, which I've torn and further embellished with water color pencils and copper leaf pen. There are 'surprises' hidden in pockets and under flaps. Swarovski crystals add extra sparkle to the pages. Vintage cabachons and rusty bits combine nicely with the other elements. Small copper bells adorn the vintage ribbon binding so the books jingle lightly when opened. Each book measures approximately 4" x 6".

I only made two for the Art Center and they were both purchased by the same lady, who promptly requested more. She also had suggestions for other themes, which I'd already been kicking around.

Here's one last peek at Christmas past. Happy New Year.

Mailed 2.0

2009-11-10T13:04:00.004-05:00

Open to all artists everywhere, but time is running out: A call for original art postcards for an exhibition at the Anton Art Center, located in Mount Clemens, Michigan. Yep, my local art center. ;)

There is no limit to the number of cards you can send, but each must be received by the Art Center no later than November 17th, 2009. Additionally, each must be mailed as a postcard (i.e., no envelopes) – stamped and canceled via the US Post Office.

Here are the details:

Create a postcard sized work of art for the Anton Art Center’s second annual exhibition, “Mailed 2.0”.

All postcards received by November 17, 2009, will be displayed in the center’s Petitpren Community Gallery from November 19 – December 20, 2009.

Anyone can participate!

Last year’s inaugural Mailed exhibition drew over 1,100 postcards, mailed to the art center from as far away as Germany, Finland and Japan. Artists mailed in postcards made out of garbage bag twist ties, wood, yarn and fabric, as well as traditional cardstock.

There are no limitations on medium or the style of artwork, but only original works of art will be accepted – no reproductions. Any 4” x 6” postcard will be accepted. All submissions must include the artist’s name and contact information on the postcard.

Work must be received at the Anton Art Center via the U.S. Postal Service no later than November 17, 2009. Be sure to use sufficient postage. No entries mailed inside envelopes or other containers will be accepted.

There is no limit on the number of entries per artist, but each postcard must be mailed individually. Upon receipt, all works become property of the Anton Art Center. For complete guidelines, visit www.theartcenter.org.

Mail your postcard(s) to the Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens, MI, 48043. Each piece will be sold for $20, with all proceeds benefiting the center’s programming.

One postcard will be selected as “Best in Show” and will serve as the design for a collection of folded note cards that will be sold in the center’s gift shop. The winning artist’s bio will appear on the back side of the note card. The winner will also receive an allotment of 100 note cards. In 2008, Michigan artist Abbigail Israelsen’s postcard was awarded “Best of Show" (photo of winning work above).

Mailed 2.0 opens to the public Friday, November 20, 2009, with an opening reception Sunday, November 22, 1-3 pm. The exhibit will run through Sunday, December 20, 2009.

Hope you will join us!

Solstice Arches

2009-10-09T15:25:00.007-04:00

As I finally get caught up on projects I'd fallen behind on over the past few months, I think it's high time I dusted off the ol' blog.

On the 14 Secrets group over the summer, we created arches for the summer solstice that have been gathered together and are being made into collaborative books by the lovely Gena. Because of the circumstances, I didn't get mine done. Opting to drop out of the swap rather than hold things up, Gena talked me into forging ahead, using the energy of the situation to create. So I did. :) My grandmother left us over the week-end of the summer solstice. She loved flowers and gardening and creating.

Sewing was her greatest pastime. So.... I implemented these elements in my arches. I used Gram's graduation photo, along with some fabrics and vintage buttons and trims that she'd been accumulating for years, paired with flower images all in shades of her favorite color, purple. It was a very satisfying, healing experience. I feel as if each arch carries the gentle spirit of my grandmother.

I'd planned to post these images quite awhile ago but have been totally caught up in catching up. Almost there!

Page backs:

Covers:

These are just a few images. Wish the photos were better. I have such issues with lighting. One of these days I'll figure it out. Or I'll get better equipment.

I know the completed books will be magical.

I still have many balls in the air, but look for regular updates once again. Lots of art and enchantment and life to share. :)

Peace.

Nurturing Creativity

2009-08-13T13:16:00.007-04:00

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is a warm, witty and fascinating memoir of the author's journey (physical, emotional and spiritual) to find herself. The video above is a very interesting 20-minute talk by Ms. Gilbert on the ideas of genius and creativity. Definitely worth a look. Her humility and wonder are endearingly refreshing. It makes me realize that her book really does capture the true essence of who she is because the same traits are ever present in her writing.

I lovelovelove the quote by poet Ruth Stone, because, as Ms. Gilbert says, who among us hasn't touched that place at least on occasion in our creations?

What would it take to go there each and every time?

Enjoy the video.

Summer of Love

2009-07-24T11:22:00.010-04:00

It has been quite awhile since my last update. Sadly, my grandmother left us on June 19th, and it has taken some time to right myself again. I haven't been feeling all that creative until very recently. I did myself a huge favor and signed up for a 'Summer of Love' workshop with Suzi Blu. A class forces me to just do it. And a Suzi class is far too fun not to do it.

The workshop I'm taking is called "The Goddess and The Poet" and it's all about drawing faces with some stylized and some realistic elements. Faces with a spiritual essence that hopefully draws the viewer in, and then adding some embellishments and maybe some slightly surreal elements, and poetry. What's not to love? Above is a graphite drawing, my third, not yet finished. This week we're adding color and working in our Moleskine journals. Ohh, Moleskine – who knew? Well, apparently everyone but me. :) The Italian paper is gorgeous – buttery soft in both color and texture and loves Prismacolors (long my fave pencils). It's like a little slice of art heaven.

~~~

In my absence, I've been honored to receive another blogger award – One Lovely Blog – from Catherine Witherell of Happy Day Art. Catherine is an amazing metal clay artist. Her jewelry is just stunning so when you visit her blog be sure to wander through her Etsy shop, as well. Thank you, Catherine! I now have ten awards to pass along... oh, I'm sooo behind. I am working on choosing, though – it's tough! Stay tuned...

~~~

I miss my grandmother. Gram, if you're out there somewhere reading this, I just want you to know that I get it, now. ;) Thank you. Love you.

Keep dancing...

xx

When Life Hangs in the Balance

2009-06-13T12:11:00.017-04:00

I realized last night that it has been a couple of weeks since my last post. Time has escaped me. My grandmother (who lives with us) has been hospitalized since June 1st, and on a respirator since June 7th. I've not been able to focus on art (or much else) during this challenging time, but I see that folks have been stopping by this space and so I offer this explanation and gratitude for your continued interest.

Today my grandmother underwent a procedure that, in the best case scenario, will allow her to be weaned off the respirator and hopefully enjoy more time with us, without the constant struggle for breath. And so we wait. Please, if you are so inclined, send up a prayer. All good thoughts and energy are very much appreciated.

In searching for a photo to include with this post, I came across some I'd taken of kite boarders at the lake in early spring. I really like the one above for its vast expanse of watercolor sky, so much so that I couldn't resist playing with the image just a bit:

I think the haiku speaks for itself:

a fragile thread
each breath hangs suspended
between gusts

And so a little creative energy has been expended and I feel better. :)

Here are a couple more (unaltered) images from that spring day:

Looks like fun, whaddya think?

~~~

Whilst you are here, please check out the new badges in the sidebar, specifically The Ties That Bind – a wonderful, collaborative art effort and raffle to benefit ovarian cancer research. Click on the image for more information.

The Kreativ Blogger Award was given to me by Lani Gerity – a delightfully unexpected surprise that I will be passing along to five other creative bloggers soon. Stay tuned! Meanwhile, visit Lani's fun, thoughtful and inspirational blog here.

~~~

In other news, more journals for the Mariposa Project have arrived! A big boxful from Lore Caldwell, created by Lore and some of her clients. Pictures will be forthcoming. Thank you so much, Lore!

~~~

I'm so far behind on things... art projects, an interview, even a couple of gifts. If I owe you something, please accept my apologies and know that I have not forgotten. I appreciate your patience and understanding.

As always, click on any image to enlarge it.

Peace...

~

Steampunk!

2009-05-30T20:45:00.004-04:00

Steampunk refers to a genre of writing that marries modern technology with the Victorian era. Ingeniously intriguing, it also encompasses movies, television and some of the most delightful art I've laid amazed eyes upon.

When I think of steampunk, Dr. Who and the Wild, Wild West pop immediately into my head – shows I loved before the term 'steampunk' was ever coined. It's safe to say that steampunk bore roots in the works of Jules Verne and H.G. Wells and the like. To be fair, the rapid technological advances of the last few decades have made the genre even more captivating, and the term itself also reflects the 1980s era in which it was created.

Artists everywhere have embraced the steampunk style. One of my current favorite sites (and mentioned in this space before) is Remnants Of Olde. Wonderful pieces – mostly jewelry – crafted with old watch gears and bits and thingamajigs and copious amounts of creative genius. And they are not alone! I see fabulous examples of steampunk art and jewelry all the time.

Art Alchemy Studio is offering a Steampunk Doll Class online, taught by Georgina Diaz and Chaska Peacock from June 5th through June 28th. It sounds like fun. Please visit the site and check it out, ASAP. The doll pictured is definitely 'funky fun'. I have to be honest – by posting this blurb I have a chance to take this class for free – very cool! Thanks to my lovely Moon (and art!) sister, Gena, who knows me well enough to alert me to this possibility. I love doll making and am totally fascinated with steampunk, so... maybe I will be lucky. :)

The photo above was borrowed from Wikipedia. I want that, too. ;)

Pure Enchantment (Remember?)

2009-05-28T22:15:00.010-04:00

I have loved this little film for a long long while, now, and have to revisit it now and then. It has moved me deeply, inspiring awe and even tears from the first, as it has done with countless others. It was through Duirwaigh that I was introduced to the wonderful art of the likes of David Delamare and Wendy Froud. And the music..... oh, to my soul...

Some of the original artwork has been updated (which does make me a little sad), but it's as enchanting as ever. I only wish that I could embed a larger image without it overlapping.

If you have never seen it, you are in for some Magic.... if you have, it might be time to visit again.

And... when Imagination knocks, open the Duir....

Spring Spiffiness

2009-05-18T14:04:00.008-04:00

If you've been a previous visitor to this space then you'll notice that I've done a complete revamping – created a new background, new banner, lighter colors. I was tired of black... so dark and heavy. When I started this a couple of years ago, I chose black because it allows photos of artwork to really pop. Recently, though, I have begun to notice that a LOT of art blogs have adopted a black color scheme, probably for the same reason.

I guess I just wanted to lighten things up a bit... spring cleaning after a long, dreary winter.

I'm still playing and tweaking a little... Let me know what you think. :)

The above digitally altered photo is of a tulip from the garden (with apologies to Andreas).

They're Heeere!

2009-05-18T13:22:00.011-04:00

The first of the journals for the Mariposa Project have arrived, courtesy of Carol Moore! Carol sent five books, each uniquely and beautifully decorated. Some are covered in fabric, some in paper... embellished with collage and stamps and wonderful quotes and images:

Check out the back and inside cover art:

And as if five journals wasn't enough, Carol also sent a box filled with goodies for the shelter:

Activity books and papers and fabric and stamps, stamps, stamps! Wow! It's all I can do to keep from getting into the box myself and playing. :)

Carol, thank you so much for your wonderfully generous spirit. I know that each and every item will be enjoyed and appreciated.

Read more about the Mariposa Project: 500 Journals – anyone is welcome to participate. Please read through the guidelines and contact me if you'd like to make a journal. This is an ongoing endeavor and I gratefully welcome anyone who wants to join us!

Queen of Hearts

2009-05-09T19:05:00.014-04:00

The challenge: Create a doll using recycled items. I love found object art and the creativity it inspires. I've seen some amazing art come from the least likely places. So... I started gathering anything and everything in a box, wheels turning each time I tossed in another object. How might I use this? Will this work for head/body/arms/etc.? And probably the most dangerous question of all: Wonder what's inside of this??

As it turned out, I didn't use nearly as much stuff from my box of goodies as I anticipated but that just means there's more for the next doll... or... :)

Not knowing at all what direction my doll would take I was delighted when the Queen of Hearts emerged.

Her recyclables include: a plastic lotion bottle body which has been covered in paper towel from a dye project; copper wire which forms her (poseable!) arms; copper tape; fabric scraps from a blouse create her wrap; watercolor paper scraps for stamped face and hands; an old, dried up paintbrush make a spiky hairdo; heart and crown fashioned from a Starbuck's sleeve; and the ever-popular altered Altoids tin. Plus reclaimed silk fibers, netting and buttons and other miscellaneous reusable goodies.

"open your heart"...

"to Magic"

You can see photos of some of the other dolls on swap hostess Carolyn's blog.

To see some incredible found object art, you really have to check out Remnants of Olde, in the blog list on the right. Each time I visit, I find something else to love (my current favorites are 3 Bird House and Time Capsule).

Click on any image above to enlarge it.

May Flowers (finally!)

2009-05-03T14:03:00.007-04:00

Everything is blossoming, blooming and greening up nicely. Temps are warm and the grass needs cutting. It must really be Spring.

I haven't posted since Easter. The last few weeks have been challenging as we've dealt with an icky virus that swept through our house, followed by other urgent family concerns. Things are settling back to whatever it is that passes for normal around here, thank goodness. It's great to open the windows wide and let Spring breathe in abundance through every room.

The above photo is the May calendar page created by Michelle Geller. It flows with the sweetness of the month itself – trailing vines and blossoms, vintage trims and this wonderful verse by Heinrich Heine:

Sweet May hath come to love us,
flowers, trees their blossoms don
and through the blue heavens above us
the very clouds move on.

Thank you, Michelle.

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T20:55:00.004-04:00

After dying some empty egg shells, we decided that more embellishing was needed. As you can see, paints, beads, glitter, paper and silk fibers were pressed into service.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Wishing everyone a season of warmth and rejuvenation after the long, cold winter.

Trails of Ribbon

2009-04-10T12:13:00.007-04:00

I've spent months looking for this cool ribbon. Working on journals recently I imagined how nice they would look with this lovely tattered and worn ribbon to complement the aged finish. Having been unsuccessful in my previous attempts to locate it, I put out a plea to the 14 Secrets group. Several folks were familiar with the ribbon, some even had it but either couldn't recall where it had been purchased, had purchased it locally or from a going-out-of-business sale. The latter was the case with Jan, who emailed me to say she had oodles of it and was putting some in the mail to me. I was thrilled and also touched by her generosity of spirit.

True to her word, Jan mailed it immediately and within a couple of days, I was playing with yards of shimmery, silky ribbon, letting it flow through my fingers and once again being moved by her thoughtfulness and generosity.

A day or two later, Jan posted a message to the group to say that she had in turn received MORE of the same ribbon neatly wrapped around an art swap package from another group. How cool is that? Talk about paying it forward...

A thousand huzzahs to Jan! Please check out her blog and her Etsy shop. And if anyone knows where I might find more of this lovely stuff, please do let me know. I may have to begin experimenting with making my own.

April Blizzards??

2009-04-05T18:38:00.006-04:00

Above is a picture of one of Gena's colorful and detailed April calendar pages. So soft and pretty, in gentle shades of springtime and adorned with flora and fauna. The poem by Percy Shelley in Gena's lovely, fanciful script reads:

And Spring arose on the garden fair
like the spirit of Love felt everywhere
And each flower and herb on Earth's dark breast
rose from the dreams of its wintry rest

So delightful...

Gena and I swapped pages, six for six during the creation process so she created six July pages in addition to her assigned April pages, and I had the joy of making six April pages. Sneaky.... ;)

Here is my April page:

The upper part of the background is a digital image created in Photoshop. The bottom half is painted and sanded... the image of the children (my youngest two at ages 4 & 5), is mounted on small foam squares for added dimension, though it doesn't translate well in the photo. The cloud face is polymer clay, as are the little flowers in the corners. The rain sparkles with magic...

I was so happy when April arrived as we managed to escape March with NO SNOW. Buds are sprouting on the trees... tulips are poking through the soil... there are even hints of green peeking out of the vast brown patches of grass. Home free!

Not... 4-8 inches of the white stuff is predicted overnight and tomorrow. Welcome to springtime in Michigan...

Right-clicking any image will enlarge and open it in a new window.

Who's Who?

2009-03-22T13:29:00.008-04:00

The dolls above were sewn by my grandmother this Christmas past for my cousin's 4-year-old twins, Abby and Chloe, using a vintage pattern and mostly fabric scraps. The dolls are appropriately named Abby and Chloe as well. :) At 85, my grandmother has been stitching away for decades and is still kicking up dust at the sewing machine. I think she missed her calling in life. She made beautiful dresses for me when I was small... sewed wardrobes for my younger cousin, Pam... made dresses and nightgowns for my daughter and is now sewing for Pam's girls. She made my wedding dress, from which I, in turn, used the train to make a hand-smocked and beaded traditional christening gown that all of my children wore. What? you say – You cut up your wedding dress?? (Everyone says that.) Yeah... I did... I figured I have enough pictures of it, right?

My grandmother taught me that it's okay to think 'outside the pattern'... to deconstruct and reconstruct. She often remakes patterns or combines pieces from different patterns, or just improvises (a traced dinner plate makes a perfect scalloped hem on a flower girl's dress). Sometimes she enlists my help and I get to make satin rosettes or create pink-and-purple yarn hair for a rag doll (we ran out of orange).

Here's a picture of the real-life Abby and Chloe girls... or is that Chloe and Abby??

Precious.

Take a cue from my grandmother. If you've been thinking about trying something new, go ahead – mix it up a little. Color outside those lines. Personally, I think the pink-and-purple hair looks fab, don't you?

500 Journals – The Mariposa Project: Guidelines

2009-03-17T12:13:00.006-04:00

The photo above is of a journal in process.

The original post describing this project is here.

Here are some simple guidelines to observe if you are planning to make a journal to send along for Turning Point. Mostly, they're common sense but I just want to be sure we're on the same page.

1. If you are making a journal using a composition notebook, please use one that is stitched rather than perforated. Just my little quirk, as these are sturdier and won’t result in pages being accidentally torn out over time and use. Mine are standard sized, 200 pages (100 sheets). I believe they’re available in wide and college ruled. Wide might be good for children’s journals.

2. Uplifting quotes, song snippets, poetry, etc. are often used to complement and enhance artwork. Please, though, be mindful of the sensitive situations that journal recipients have left when choosing quotes.

3. The journals might be subjected to a lot of wear and tear, being tossed in tote bags, backpacks, etc. Keeping dimensional and dangly elements to a minimum will help ensure that a journal’s unique design stays intact. A good, sturdy (non-toxic) glue and also protective layers of clear acrylic placed over dimensional elements where possible will help.

4. Remember that kids use the journals, too! Kid-friendly designs will be welcomed, as well as stickers, special pens, pencils, etc., as per suggestions on the Turning Point wishlist.

5. I am reminded that some folks would like to contribute to the project without having to create a journal. Purchased journals can be sent, as well as any supplies or stickers, etc., as suggested above. If you’d like to simply send a blank composition book I will be happy to create a journal in your name or find another artist to do so.

6. Please contact me for a mailing address when you are ready to send. Whenever I have gathered 12 or so journals, I’ll deliver them to Turning Point. My hope is that this will be ongoing so feel free to work on these as you are inspired to do so. There are no time constraints.

IMPORTANT: IF YOU ARE SENDING MORE THAN ONE JOURNAL PLEASE SEPARATE THEM WITH WAXED OR PARCHMENT PAPER TO KEEP THEM FROM STICKING TOGETHER DURING MAILING- THANK YOU!

I will be posting photos of your journals as they arrive. Stay tuned!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thanks to everyone who has expressed an interest in helping, and to those yet to come.

Peace!

Deb

500 Journals

2009-03-11T23:23:00.026-04:00

=====UPDATE: Project Guidelines HERE=====

Above is a photo of a journal I created for my local women's shelter. This is something I have been intending to start on for the past couple of years. The shelter, Turning Point, uses over 500 journals a year, giving them to the women and children who come through their doors seeking refuge from domestic violence. I was surprised by this number. Journals are something I wouldn't have thought to donate had I not seen them on the list, but what a great idea.

Journaling is therapeutic, as it says on their wish list (where journals are actually listed in two places). As both writer and artist, it has been my thought to create journals that are a little bit special, something that might let one know that someone else was at least thinking of them... Something bright to perhaps offer a small measure of comfort in a difficult time.

The butterfly image is Mariposa Lily, #2. She represents the Goddess of Transformation and she carries 'Quan Yin light' – the energy of compassion.

I began with a basic black-and-white wireless (stitched) composition notebook (200 pages), painted it black, then 'aged' and distressed it with sandpaper. (If you have received almost anything from me in the past, oh, six or eight months – calendar pages, cards, ATCs, etc. – you might know that sandpaper is my new best friend. ;) Sandpaper really softens the finish and gives the book the feel of worn leather.

A bit of torn paper and a few coats of clear acrylic and gel medium for protection, more roughing up, a vintage metal button with a nice patina, a ribbon closure and she's done. I chose only to embellish the outside covers as there's a lot of info printed inside that may be helpful to someone who might possibly be heading to college or job searching.

I like the contrast of the butterfly emerging from the chaos and aged backdrop. The Goddess of Transformation holds the key, after all, to the ancient (inner) wisdom needed to become that which we already are.

On the back is a simple reminder to stop and breathe.....

I am not normally prone to New Year's resolutions... but the question was posed on the 14 Secrets group about our creative resolutions and I thought it would give me a kickstart to publicly acknowledge this endeavor. A few more little nudges, those friendly postcards from the Universe that won't be ignored, and hey! the first journal's done. Only 499 to go... :)

I will be working away at this project, at my own pace. Unless I can start kicking out 2 or more a day, though, it is highly doubtful that I will complete 500 journals by myself this year, so I welcome anyone who would like to contribute to join me. The more, the merrier. I promise I have your favorite tea (as long as it's green or Earl Grey... or maybe chai).

If you are interested, please either contact me or leave a comment with an email address BEFORE you start. There are some guidelines that need to be observed. If enough folks express an interest, I'll post the guidelines for easy reference on this blog.

Or, maybe you'll want to contact the women's shelter in your area and see if they are in need of journals...

Right-click on the images to enlarge and open in a new window.

Spring Tease

2009-03-06T14:52:00.004-05:00

It's a GORGEOUS day, today – so warm (66 – whoa...) and sunny. Just beautiful.

The March calendar page above was created by Pipp. It's a lovely and eclectic mix of lace, fabric, sheet metal (!), torn paper and vintage buttons. It even includes a quilt square. I enjoy the blending of torn brown craft paper and vintage lace and fabric. It's a nice visual contrast. I often use torn brown paper with shinier elements in my work just for that reason. Lots of great textural elements going on in this page. Sheet metal – who would have guessed?? (It's the reddish brown area speckled with silver.) There's a very nostalgic feel... which somehow seems to go with March...

In her beautiful handwriting, she has written at the bottom of the page:

"Springtime is the land awakening. The March winds are the morning yawn."

Just perfect. Thanks, Pipp!

Healing Tree

2009-02-24T16:48:00.004-05:00

Isn't this pin so pretty? It's a Healing Tree pin made by my friend Winter, which, according to her description, began with the intention of becoming a bouquet of flowers, but morphed into a tree. Trees are so healing. They show up in my own artwork often and I love the very idea of a Healing Tree I can wear.

You can get a better description of this pin and see more of Winter's work at ERLICHDA – Enlightened Ornamentation, her Etsy shop. She also makes gorgeous beaded ornament covers and other beaded confections. Her necklaces are intricately exquisite – just beautiful. It's my hope she'll have some to share on her site soon, as it appears she's in the process of adding more pieces after the holiday crush. (How's that for a hint?)

I really just had to share this little pin, made with love and lots of good mojo.

Winter, you've got me thinking.... (and glancing sideways at the box of copper wire under yon art table...)

Fun With Photoshop

2009-02-21T02:24:00.011-05:00

Photoshop has long been one of my favorite art playgrounds. It's great fun to scan a mixed media piece, for instance, and digitally enhance it even further, in an infinite number of ways. The paper-n-soul banner was created from a collaged shipping tag.

I also enjoy altering a simple color photo of someone to create an image with more impact by first desaturating the color, then maybe tinting it (as in the photo above). Then I enhance the most prominent feature, the eyes, by replacing the color from the original photo. Finish with a lightly textured layer and soften the entire image and the result is a striking contrast.

The process:

As for the good-looking fellow in the photo, he is my 18-month-old grandson, Luke. Yes, his eyes really are that deep blue. All he ever has to do is pour those gorgeous blues on me and I'm toast... And does he know this? Oh no. Nope. Not at all... (riiight – just look at that face ;).

And if you think this really just might be a thinly-veiled excuse to do the shameless grandma thing... (click on the photos for a better look – heh)

heARTful

2009-02-14T15:55:00.009-05:00

I thought today would be the perfect day to share Joyce's February calendar page. Yes, the month is half gone but her art is so heartful, what better time? I'm enjoying gazing at the unique images everyday. Luke, my 17-month-old grandson loves pointing at the sweet photo in the upper right and saying "bay-bee?" (he's so cute).

In addition to the images, Joyce actually stitched tiny hearts along the edges of the textured paper. Very unique and lovely calendar art. The back has more images, stamped hearts and quotes:

The note on the back of the tag says, in part:

"I spend half of my winter in the Adirondack Park near Lake Placid. This is I am sure not everyone's cup of tea, but I have grown to really love the beauty, silence and isolation that winter brings up here."

Thank you, Joyce, for capturing the beauty and sharing it on your calendar page.

~~~

Winter has definitely returned to our neighborhood (we awoke to a blanket of snow to replace the piles that had been washed away by the rains earlier this week), so we might as well enjoy some winter art. The following images were taken by my daughter at the Plymouth, Michigan Ice Sculpture Spectacular in January.

And, of course, it had to be done:

Obama on ice – what more can one add?

(Click on any image to enlarge it, especially the mermaid – beautiful.)

Rain and Paper Angels

2009-02-11T14:36:00.019-05:00

I was awakened a couple of nights ago by the sound of rain. It took a few minutes to register, as the first spring rain always does... welcome music not heard in three or four months.

This bit of spring is just a tease as winter is scheduled to return from her brief hiatus tomorrow. Now if only those promised thunderstorms would materialize before day's end...

~~~

The above photo is of Mariposa Lily, the first in a series. She's destined to fly off to Prospect, Nova Scotia where she will eventually be pressed into service as part of Lani's Guardian Angel swap. Lani is collecting Paper Puppet Angels to serve as Guardian Angels for those in need of a little uplifting.

Mariposa is created almost completely of paper. Her body is a collage of spring flowers. Her 'petal' wings are made using water color washed paper towel that has been brushed with a little sparkle and some gel medium to make it sturdy yet flexible for sculpting. Reclaimed silk fibers are spun across her wings and body to trail on the breezes. She rests on a lightweight stick, in keeping with her puppet status and enabling her flight about the room as in the poem that inspired her creation in the first place:

the letter from mariposa

the butterfly girl
has learned the secret
of sustained flight
even in daylight
because she got a message
not exactly in a bottle
from a far away place
named mariposa
..
the butterfly girl
remembers her chrysalis
remembers the grey days
of winter
sometimes warmed by a sun
she could not see
..
so she opened the letter
ivory white envelope
trimmed in gold and silver
and when she opened it
the card unfolded like a papilion
and flew about the room
..
the butterfly girl
was sad
because she worried that her beautiful toy
would last only a year
and in fact
she worried about it
for several years
and yet
she and the fragile
beautiful things
endured
..
the butterfly girl is older now
and her face has learned smile wrinkles
and she does nothing to hide them
for she earned every smile
ever to cross her face
and when she is sad
she just goes back into her room
where the eternal spirit of the butterfly
cascades up and down the walls . . .

~William C. Burns, Jr.

Lovely, yes?

~~~

Here are some close-up photos of her wings in an effort to show their translucence:

I hope she will give someone 'smile wrinkles'.

~~~

Soon the spring rains will be here for real, and Mariposa lilies will fill the garden.

Beyond Words

2009-02-05T21:40:00.006-05:00

A couple of things conspired today to compel me to offer a few words on this subject (oh, the irony). Browsing Lani Puppetmaker's blog I was introduced to a short film by Nic Askew, which, of course, led me to the video posted above (mmm, breadcrumbs...) I am intrigued by Nic's work on several levels.

How often do we utter phrases like "there are no words" or "language is inadequate" when attempting to describe something, well, beyond words? There is a place of inherent understanding that surpasses all language (of human construct). The best art and, yes, poetry deliver me, unannounced, to this space of purely soulful communication.

This was inspired awhile ago in response to a fellow poet's work that very often has that power (thank you):

So often you lead me
to a place
beyond words

(Strange place for a poet
you say)

But the winds
in the hollow are still––

And strains
of my own song
reverberate in yours

As you travel the depths
of this valley of dark
your words transcend
and I am transcended
as well

The void is not truly empty
but balanced
in emancipation

From your own moonless night
you offer this gift––
from feathers, wings
from a tiny spark, warmth

And I am humbled––
beyond words

©11/11/08

I never fail to be awed by the capacity of words or art (or music) to move me to utter speechlessness. And appreciation. Nic's film offers yet another perspective to consider... (Read his own words here.) There are so many ways in which to experience an expansion of self into the infinite space that exists just beyond words. Art and poetry (both the enjoyment of and craft) are great places to begin.

And... on a really good day... you might even meet others in that space.

As my friend (and above-mentioned poet), William Burns wrote (in part):

I have crafted words
from the orbits of planets
from the currents of the seas
Crafted words
from the hearts of my enemies
from the hearts of my loves
Crafted verse to reflect
the 'Verse

I'd say.

I think it helps to remember that our soul is not a part of us so much as we are but a part of it.

Take a long look around at Lani's great blog and be sure to check out her Guardian Angel Swap whilst you're there.

Meanwhile, I'll be busy exploring more of Nic Askew's thoughtful work.

And so the trail continues...

Time for Tea

2009-01-29T10:59:00.005-05:00

The above images are of a tea box made for a 14 Secrets exchange, one of my favorites thus far. Using 'Cosmic Tea Time' as a theme, I painted, collaged and otherwise embellished a candy box that was the perfect size to stuff with an assortment of teas, tea lights, bath teas, flavored honey and other goodies.

In return, I received a beautiful, little wooden box collaged with colorful papers, dressed with a hint of shimmer and topped with a unique handmade bead 'knob', created by Andrea. It's just the right size to sit on my desk, keeping my favorite teas close at hand (Earl Grey and green).

This is such a neat idea, I am going to make more as gifts. As I come across interesting boxes and containers, I'm setting them aside.

There's nothing more soothing on a cold day than a hot cup of tea...

A Few Art Spirit Dolls

2009-01-25T16:07:00.022-05:00

I have discovered that I really enjoy creating art spirit dolls. Above is a close-up of Luna Blue Dancer, a healing doll made for an amazing swap last year. More of her in a bit... here are a some photos of some of my other, earlier (and experimental!) efforts.

This is a little zaftig 'pocket goddess' named Joy:

Joy is about 4" tall and was created for one of the first swaps I participated in. Such a fun-loving little spirit, Joy was a delight to create.

Next is a paper doll, but not in the traditional sense. Entitled "Soul of a Writer" she's made with brown craft paper that has been painted and stamped, and then rolled, glued, embellished, painted some more...

She has her own little book and, as you can see, holds yet another crumpled draft in her hand even as the words continue to spew from her head. A writer writes because she must...

Here we have Gypsy Soul. Gypsy is one of my favorites – she holds so many little treasures. She was also created for a swap.

Gypsy "embodies all of Nature, from her leafy charms to the branches she has gathered. Her beaded embellishments represent the seeds of creation. She honors each of these elements within her life." (excerpt from her booklet)

She even has her own teeny tiny Tarot cards: The Sun, The Moon, The Star and The World. Gypsy spoke a lot during her 'becoming' – she was quite clear about what she wanted!

It is impossible to imagine a more complete fusion with Nature than that of the Gypsy.
~Franz Liszt

As promised, more pictures of Luna Blue Dancer...

From her journal:

I am your healing Moon Sister, Luna Blue Dancer. I am the soul of your emotional well-being. I am here to remind you to honor your divine feminine being-ness and to free your deepest emotional Self through all things creative. The seed of all healing lies within the Heart.

The path to healing lies within the Soul.

Luna is embellished with mother-of-pearl and amethyst stars, and wears a necklace of moonstone and lapis lazuli, which also doubles as a bracelet for her earthly Sister. Luna's creation was a slow and peaceful process and it was hard to part with her when she was completed! Ah, but she went on to the home she was meant for all along...

I am currently gathering stuff and things and such for a recycled doll exchange. I love the process – the path that creating a doll leads leads me along and I'm getting anxious to start on this new one. I can feeeel her tugging at me...

No Starving Artists

2009-01-23T15:33:00.004-05:00

So I walked over to the art table today where I'd set this bowl after photographing it yesterday... to find that my 16-month-old grandson so thoughtfully left me a snack. :)

Mmm, Kix... he's just so adorable......

Catching Up...

2009-01-22T15:07:00.016-05:00

I haven't been here in awhile... I know, tsk tsk... but I have been participating in some great art exchanges. I'll post a few pics here, starting with the calendar page above. Two wonderful artists, Lore and Carol, had the grand idea of gathering a group together to create an art calendar for 2009, one artist for each month. How fun to see each person's interpretation of their month. The January page above was created by Lore. I shall endeavor to post each page as the month arrives.

As always, click on any image to enlarge it.

I pulled the month of July out of the Magic Art Fedora:

I was trying to create something a little different. The page was done using acrylics, colored pencils and digital imagery (the sunflowers are from a photo of a little 'volunteer' taken in my yard). The danglies at the bottom of the page denote the moon phases for the month. The moon accent is polymer clay.

Gena and I decided it would be fun to swap half our pages so I also got to make six for April:

This page is a little more traditional. Again, it was created using acrylics, colored pencils and digital imagery. The kiddoes are my two youngest at ages 4 and 5. (They're 21 and 22 now.) Though you can't tell in the photo, their image is raised to add some dimension. The cloud and small flowers in the corners are polymer clay.

Next up... healing tag books, a 14 Secrets exchange. This was one amazing swap. Everyone created 25 healing pages using shipping tags and imparting some bit of wisdom, advice, or a recipe for healing and comfort. Gena then mixed up allll the tags (hundreds!) and put them together into 25 books – a labor of love, to be sure. The end result was beyond what any of us could have imagined. Each book is unique and is cherished by its lucky recipient.

Here are some photos of mine:

I wish that I could post pictures of every page, they are all beautiful.

Lastly... not an art exchange, but a Christmas gift from my oldest son. Philip has been busy 'throwing pots' and he created some gorgeous pieces. I love my bowl:

Alrighty, folks – enough for now, eh?

More to come...

One World One Heart Giveaway

2009-01-21T18:24:00.054-05:00

=====UPDATE!=====
February 12, 2009

Congratulations to Abigail (Rusted Wings Studio), winner of the necklace and to Sandi (The Victorian Gypsy), winner of the pendulum!

Thanks to everyone – all 233 of you! – who stopped by and left such nice comments on my giveaways. Once again, this has been a fun event and I've enjoyed visiting so many new blogs and discovering a plethora of artful delights.

Thanks to everyone who has participated and to Lisa Swifka for organizing this event. See ya next year on the Gypsy Caravan!

===Comments are now closed.===
Thank you for stopping by and check back tomorrow, 2/12/09, for the winners.

It's time once again to join the Gypsy Caravan and travel to the far reaches of the blogging realms. Oh, the tantalizing treasures to be found... ;) Courtesy of Lisa Oceandreamer of A Whimsical Bohemian, who, for the third year now, has organized the One World One Heart Giveaway – a chance to meet a collection of amazing artists from around the planet via their blogs and win some of their wonderful wares. To learn more and find a list of participants, please visit the OWOH blog. (I somehow managed to morph the logo into an un-link, oops.) At last peek there were over 400 Gypsy souls on this little jaunt (and more gathering all the time) – wow!

I participated two years ago but missed it last year and am glad to have received a reminder from a fellow 14 Secrets member this year. Just the impetus I needed to toss some glitter on the wild things growing in the corners of this blogspace and give it a fresh sparkle.

Here are my giveaways:

1) In soft shades of springtime, a triple strand necklace of green aventurine, polymer clay beads, copper bead accents and just the right amount of silver-lined Czech glass seed beads to dance with the light. Green aventurine is a heart balancing (chakra) stone. Perfect, right? The clay beads are made by my friend Bill, who so beautifully incorporates nature's gifts into his work by mixing the clay with all manner of earthy things. The closure is a slip hook in a silver finish. Necklace measures 19”, including clasp.

Strung on 49-strand quality jeweler's wire and double-crimped at each end for extra durability.

Here is a close-up so you can see the layers of rich color in the clay beads. They really enhance the stones and are so nicely complemented by the copper accents:

2) What self-respecting Gypsy would travel without her tools of divination? The second giveaway is a pocket pendulum (5 1/2"), made of garnet with a rainbow moonstone center accent bead, an ice flake quartz crystal, star charm, and a clear, faceted quartz crystal point. The garnet stones are a lovely, deep wine hue. Hey, it’s functional and pretty! If you don't have need of a pendulum, hang it in a window to catch the light.

Click on any image to enlarge it.

To enter the drawings for either of these items, please leave a comment on this post with an email address or blog URL where you can be reached. My giveaway is open to anyone – you need not have a blog to enter. One name will be drawn for each item from all entries. If you are a winner, you will have 7 days to respond after being notified before another name is drawn. Drawing closes at 11:59pm ET February 11th and winners will be selected on February 12th.

That's that! A complete list of the Gypsy Caravan bloggers can be found at the OWOH blog. Go! Visit!

Have a cuppa tea on me and enjoy your journey.

All That Glitters...

2007-12-19T16:43:00.001-05:00

...just might be gold.

Recently, I participated in my first ATC swap, the theme of which was "The Golden Glow of December Gold". I went all out in the gold department. Awhile back I received a big box of wonderful foil leaf, packages in every assortment of colors and patterns imaginable (and even some you couldn't imagine!) What FUN. Oh my, I love the foils. (Can you tell??) Thank you, dear Sandra, sister-o-mine. You just don't know how much fun-in-a-box you've sent my way.

The swap was 4-for-3 and these are what I sent out. I'll post pics of the lovely ATCs I received as soon as I take them. Click on the photos to see a larger image.

Unfortunately, the photos don't quite do justice to the depth of the iridescent quality of the gold foils.

Who knew ATCs were such fun?? (Yeah, I know.... I'm a little behind the rest of you.)

As the Veil Thins...

2007-10-25T13:44:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year... October is my favorite month. The October full moon always seems to be the most magical. Take a look outside tonight and see if you don't agree.

The above collage was created for Lani's 14 Secrets digital art challenge. The background image is from a photo I took many, many full moons ago.

Click here to see what has become of this photo:

I dunno, there's just something a little bit spooky about these sisters......

Click on images for a larger view.

Happy Ha'anting!

Inchies!

2007-09-05T10:50:00.002-04:00

Recently my son Philip created the above piece for the "One by One Invitational", an exhibit at the local art center in which each work was to be completed in a 1' x 1' space. Philip's piece is titled "49 Views of Earth". Each 'view' is an inch-square microcosm taken from one of his (many, many) beautiful photographs of nature. Of course, photographing the photograph does not do it justice. After the exhibit, Philip graciously gave the picture to me and now I enjoy gazing at it, imagining myself in each of those lovely spots. It's as close to a vacation as I'm going to get!

And that's not all.... the creation of the above piece resulted in these:

Inchies!

Well, not yet - but they will be. I have 49 perfect, beveled-edge one-inch squares of matt board just begging for color and texture and what-not. I've never made inchies but they look like so much fun I decided to host a swap on the 14 Secrets group. I've never hosted a swap, either, so this should prove to be an interesting, little jaunt all the way around.

The theme is autumn. I can't wait to get started.

Fabric Postcards

2007-08-06T12:17:00.002-04:00

So this was fun. The latest swap I participated in was a 3-for-3 fabric postcard (4" x 6") exchange. Something new for me. One postcard was to be a mermaid theme and the others were open. I didn't have a lot of time to add all the detail I would have liked but I did have fun with the backgrounds.

The mermaid background was created on unbleached muslin using a masking tape stencil and pastel dye sticks. The color is applied to the tape and then lifted with a toothbrush onto the fabric. I love the subtle blending - it looks airbrushed:

Both of the remaining cards started with a water color dye on unbleached muslin, on top of which more color was layered using the dye stick and masking tape method:

Here's the back of the leaf card, just to give an idea of the total concept (boy, that stitching isn't too neat on the reverse!):

Each card was layered with a thin (1/4") sheet of foam to give it a little thickness and body.

Click on any image to enlarge it.

I really enjoyed making these and wish I'd had a little more time to be creative. Can't wait to see what comes back. I have seen photos of some really beautiful fabric cards. Mine are, well, hmm, maybe just a little quirky. I'm already planning the next batch, with little pockets and all manner of goodies!

Stay tuned...

Street Life

2007-08-05T13:54:00.002-04:00

Koi were swimming on the sidewalks at the Detroit Festival of the Arts in June. It's amazing what some folks can do with a little chalk and a sidewalk. I can't even draw a straight hopscotch court.

Here's the artist at work:

The above images were captured by my son, Philip. (Thanks, Philip!) As always, click on the images to enlarge.

Amazing...

2007-06-06T18:29:00.001-04:00

I haven't posted in awhile though I do have several arty photos and several more to take. Life has a way of encroaching on our creative time and energies. Meanwhile, have a look this video clip (click on the link below). I first saw it a couple of weeks ago and was quite impressed. Beautifully done. Oh, scroll down to the bottom of the page to turn off the background music before you start the clip. Enjoy!

500 Years of Women in Western Art

Passing

2007-05-03T12:53:00.001-04:00

Brilliant finery bends
in stark contrast
against the pewter sky

Mourners swaying in rhythm
bow their heads
to greet sorrow's damp chill

With such swiftness
summer's passing... in her wake
orphaned sunflowers weep

This little poem recently placed third in Artella's "Poetic Idol" contest, much to my surprise. Third place comes complete with a cash prize - yeah! Okay, so it's a little cash prize but there were lots of other goodies, too, including publication in an upcoming issue of e-Artella, with an artist's depiction of said poem.

The above image is mine, created as a part of a small montage (along with the poem) for a class I took about a year and a half or so ago. My first foray back into the world of drawing with actual pencils on paper in a very long time. Simple, but very satisfying on a creative level. The act of doing, I guess, as opposed to simply thinking about and dreaming of doing. (Click on the image for a better look.)

The poem came about when I looked out of my kitchen window one cold, rainy September afternoon and saw my neat, little row of sunflowers bent and bobbing (in unison) in the gray drizzle. They had been so perky and cheerful just the day before. It was a sad sight.

I Think That I Shall Never See...

2007-04-11T14:24:00.002-04:00

...a tree with earrings.

It has been sooo windy here if the trees had any leaves, this is how they'd look.

The image above is a close-up of the corner of an art bag I painted for a round robin. I was unexpectedly bumped up into this exchange and so didn't have a lot of time to devote much thought to what I wanted to put on my bag. I love trees and their energy, the stories they tell (and the secrets they don't!), so when I began to paint, a tree is what emerged. No time for nifty stuff like photo emulsion which is what I'd originally wanted to do, but I like this windswept tree with its little beaded leaf accents. It reminds me of a storybook illustration. I'll probably add a few more leafy "earrings" later.

The best part will be seeing what the other seven artists who are in this round robin will add. The hardest part will be waiting for my bag to come back home.....

Wishes, Dreams and Hidden Things

2007-04-05T10:33:00.001-04:00

The Tarot Deck Collective is a collaboration by several artists to create a Tarot deck based upon individual interpretation of the original 72 cards of the Tarot. They are being created for exhibition at the Bath Fringe Festival in the UK. (Sounds like a fun festival!)

The cards I chose to illustrate are the Star and the Moon. Click on either image for a larger version to better see the detail.

The Star is the card of wishes, hopes and dreams. The woman in the image is bathed in the golden glow of starshine as she contemplates universes both within and without. Unadorned except for sparkling starlight she is ready to bare her soul's deepest desires to the cosmos... and to trust that they will come to fruition.

Ah, the Moon..... the Moon has both a dark and a light side and is all about our hidden emotions, illusion, intuition, transformation... it illuminates that which might have been buried or kept from our conscious vision. There's nothing quite like the luminous glow of a full moon to bring it all to light. The Moon takes us deep within our inner process whether we like it or not, but the journey is always well worth the effort.

Each of these cards was created using acrylic paints, collage, colored pencils, gel pens and digital imagery. To view more, visit The Tarot Deck Collective blog.

Charmed

2007-04-04T21:26:00.001-04:00

This little blogspace will be for sharing bits of art - both sent and received, poetic musings (mine and others), and anything else I deem to be related.

Today I sent off a batch of charms for a charm swap. I was a little daunted by the idea at first, but intrigued enough to sign up. After all, the reason I joined the 14 Secrets group in the first place was to stretch myself creatively. So I made charms. Lots of charms. I enjoyed making them so much I just kept making "a few more". They're puzzle pieces which have been embellished with gold paint and sealed with several coats of clear acrylic. I added a tiny piece of amethyst to each one. I love how they resemble little bits of porcelain. They remind me of my grandmother's tea cups (some of which are shown in the photograph). Click on the image to enlarge it.

I can't wait to see the charms made by the rest of the group..... I know they will be incredibly creative and fun.