So Many Stars

Baking focaccia bread today.

2012-02-08T13:08:00.001-05:00

Baking focaccia bread today., originally uploaded by studio318.

There is nothing as drool-inducing as the aroma of fresh bread baking in the oven. Sun-dried, rosemary focaccia bread for our Italian dinner later. YUM!

Painting faces today.

2012-02-07T15:05:00.002-05:00

Painting faces today., originally uploaded by studio318.

My original plan was to get back to my 10 x 10 inch small format abstract paintings that I started, but the urge to play with some unfinished cloth dolls distracted me in a big way.

So instead of making abstracts, I finished up some hand sewing and finally gave these two dollies some faces, much to their relief, I may add. It must be difficult to sit on a shelf waiting for a face. Sorry about that. ;)

Now, to whip up some cute skirts or tutus. I'm sure something can be found here in all these fabric bins.

Watercolor pencils

2012-02-06T17:02:00.001-05:00

Watercolor pencils, originally uploaded by studio318.

Art supplies. Two words that make me weak at the knees. It was definitely love at first sight. :)

Yellow crocus sketch

2012-02-06T09:54:00.001-05:00

Yellow crocus sketch, originally uploaded by studio318.

Listening to The Lion King soundtrack and doing quick sketches in my watercolor journal. Hakuna Matata my friends! Have a great Monday!

Abstract pathways

2012-02-03T16:32:00.003-05:00

Acrylics on canvas. Lots of fun creativity in the studio today. Balance is key.

Work in progress

2012-02-03T10:12:00.003-05:00

An original abstract using earth colors and found papers. 10 x 10 inches. Happy Friday to all. :)

Around town.

2012-01-29T17:28:00.001-05:00

Shot this at a stop light near the Ronald McDonald house in Orlando with my iPhone. I love trees.

Rainy day play

2012-01-27T13:18:00.002-05:00

Balancing

Oil pastel on paper

A rainy day--a perfect excuse for lounging around the art studio, playing with materials and seeing what happens. This oil pastel abstract was my morning warm-up. I'm looking forward to heading off to the art store this weekend and picking up some more colors. I love smearing them around with my fingers and trying different layering combinations.

I've got a new chocolate chip cookie recipe baking in the oven, one made with spelt flour. I've taste tested one already, and they are quite lovely... light and buttery. The only thing is, they are on the flat and crispy side of the cookie scale. ;) Hmmmm. I may need to tweak the ingredients a bit. The recipe called for baking powder, not baking soda. I'm no expert; I just followed the Arrow Mills spelt cookie recipe on the side of the bag. Maybe I can find additional information about spelt cookie options on the Internet. I'm sure they will get eaten today during tea time. I'm not worried. :)))

An organized art space=joy.

2012-01-27T11:05:00.001-05:00

An organized art space=joy., originally uploaded by studio318.

These are a few of my favorite things... ;)

Birds Collage

2012-01-24T17:47:00.002-05:00

birds collage2, originally uploaded by studio318.

I worked on a quick watercolor, ink, and found paper collage this afternoon--just for play. I used an old National Geographic magazine, selecting graphics from the one issue that seemed to have similar color qualities. Then I sketched around them, adding color with the watercolors. Totally relaxing. Now off to cook some dinner! :)

Flagler Avenue Beach Day

2012-01-24T10:29:00.001-05:00

Flagler Beach Day, originally uploaded by studio318.

A delicious day at the beach, the colors... the soothing sounds, and the warm sun--these experiences needed a space of honor in the art journal. ;) Sketched with pen (the fine-tipped Sharpie pen) with watercolors from my travel palette.

For a little "ink bleed" (just love a little "runny" look sometimes), I used the Pilot V-5 pen. It runs just enough to give a watery edge to things. I use it selectively, and it does the job of adding some shadows here and there. I never quite do a layout the exact same way; it's good to change it up some. This time I used the small frames, but in the end, I had to add the elements floating in the background as well. They added more interest and depth of composition I believe.

Okay, off to have a morning run! Have a great art day friends! :)

New Smyrna

2012-01-23T10:26:00.001-05:00

Spent Saturday with Jeff enjoying the beautiful weather at New Smyrna beach. The weather was perfect for taking photos, sketching, daydreaming, and strolling through the tiny shoppes--so very relaxing. Good for the soul.

Something about the sea air that makes everything seem so alive, so full of joy!

Breathing. Space. Sun. Energy. Life is good.

Mixed media collage

2012-01-18T12:15:00.003-05:00

Bird and Bee

mixed media collage

I was lucky to have stumbled upon Tina Marohn's website this morning. I had just finished working on my second collage (see above) and was trying to figure out if I "liked" my latest creation. Tina's post about the inner critic got me thinking about how harsh we artists are on ourselves and towards our work. My response to her was this...

"Ah, yes, indeed--those days when we can't find it in our own hearts to "like" our own work, ourselves, or our unique, and necessary journey. It's a struggle to be a creative--not knowing when the muse will decide to turn inward and go on attack mode. You are not alone; we all go there because "not creating" isn't an option. Keep painting my friend. There are visions that need to be born."

Yes, surely we will go there. Art is in our souls. Go visit her site--she has some wonderful images there. Namaste.

Which journal?

2012-01-17T11:15:00.004-05:00

Why so many journals? I guess it is the result of my endless quest for the perfect journal. Now to defend myself, there ARE differences that make it totally necessary to purchase a new, empty, waiting-to-be-decorated art journal--and the main issue is that you never know what kind of paper you will be in the mood for. Some days are vellum finish days, and other days are cold press watercolor days. Variety and choices. Yes indeed... so very me. ;)

Experimental collage

2012-01-17T08:46:00.002-05:00

Experimental collage, originally uploaded by studio318.

Faded images of a garden. Some specimens survived, some did not. A collage of found papers with acrylic, colored pencil, and charcoal. Measures approximately 5 x 7 inches on watercolor paper.

I find these small collages to be very rewarding. They serve as a creative warmup--a time to play with color, and a means to explore patterns and line. Small works have always appealed to me. The challenge is to keep enough information included, yet leave open space for the imagination to move in and out of--the added bonus is that the work can feel complete in a relatively shorter amount of time than the larger canvas projects.

When the dark night delivers the day.

2012-01-14T10:56:00.002-05:00

When the dark night delivers the day., originally uploaded by studio318.

Still experimenting with oil pastels in my sketchbooks. I like how the chunky crayons force me to think in larger graphic shapes.

Morning warmup.

2012-01-13T08:16:00.002-05:00

Morning warmup., originally uploaded by studio318.

I really need to work on some watercolor flowers today for an upcoming interior decor show, but I needed a quick oil pastel moment. :) I've challenged myself to use up some older, inexpensive oil pastels that have been hanging around in the studio. I'm enjoying them so much, that it may be time to invest in some good quality sticks. A visit to the art store is always a good day. :)

It's not easy being green.

2012-01-12T10:48:00.000-05:00

I found this old watercolor spiral journal that had entries in it from 2006 and after perusing the pages, I considered some of my odd color choices in a few of the landscape sketches. They just didn't appeal to me any longer. My reaction was to take the portable watercolor palette and create a more encompassing color choice grid to put my mind at ease. I seriously wondered where my creative sensibility was in 2006.

I guess I can consider it artistic growth, change, maturity--a new outlook about color and color temperature. I suppose we artists all change as the years come and go, picking up new favorite shades and finding others passe´ and unappealing. It's something to think about--how colors reflect our times. Have an artful day everyone!

Studying the colors of Diebenkorn.

2012-01-10T14:37:00.001-05:00

Studying the colors of Diebenkorn., originally uploaded by studio318.

Studying the colors of Diebenkorn.

2012-01-10T14:36:00.004-05:00

Studying the colors of Diebenkorn., originally uploaded by studio318.

Secrets of yesterday

2012-01-10T12:24:00.001-05:00

Just a quick sketch with ink in a cheapo sketchbook that I think came with a cool satchel art studio thing (ya, know... one of those bargain gotta have gizmos that you find on the clearance shelf in Michaels). Anyway, I did about 5 sketches in this questionable quality sketchbook, and of course the book started to fall apart. Murphy's Law. I should know better. I took the pages and taped them into a better sketchbook with artist tape. Yes, I threw out the faulty book. The paper quality was very "sketchy"... pardon the pun. LOL Have a great day!

A nice sunny spot on the porch for journaling.

2012-01-10T12:23:00.002-05:00

Detail of sketch.

2012-01-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

Detail of sketch., originally uploaded by studio318.

Here's a detail of the experiment as described below. Somehow this all came together. No pencil sketch, no plan, no real vision. I just put pen to paper and let it evolve. I like how these moments just happen. ;)

Captured by your beauty and light.

2012-01-09T16:52:00.001-05:00

Captured by your beauty and light., originally uploaded by studio318.

I found a cheap journal that I got for free and just had to try out the paper. I don't know what it is about journals, but I keep thinking I will find the perfect one. I know... the never-ending quest. :)

This was my experiment page, and although the paper is not well-suited to a lot of abuse, pen and ink with a gentle watercolor wash looked quite nice. Let's see... that makes journal number ??????

On the desk.

2012-01-07T16:03:00.001-05:00

On the desk., originally uploaded by studio318.

Tools I love... Pens--pens of all kinds and colors. My emerald green glass pencil sharpener. Art journals. Art supplies are my weakness.

Couldn't sleep, so I ended up playing with my Sharpie. :)

2012-01-07T16:01:00.001-05:00

Couldn't sleep, so I ended up playing with my Sharpie. :), originally uploaded by studio318.

Why is it that when I cannot sleep due to a sinus headache, I end up making detailed artwork in the wee hours of the morning? It happens a lot. I think there is some weird connection between headaches and creativity! Making art didn't get rid of the headache, but at least I was productive. :)

Memories of Autumn.

2012-01-04T13:31:00.001-05:00

Memories of Autumn., originally uploaded by studio318.

We Floridians don't really experience an autumn. But I do have memories of another time and place.

Mixed media drawing

2012-01-04T12:56:00.002-05:00

Mixed media drawing, originally uploaded by studio318.

I pulled out some old oil pastels yesterday; it felt good to smear the colors with my finger. Tactile art. ;)

Collage escape...

2012-01-03T11:08:00.001-05:00

Collage escape, originally uploaded by studio318.

It isn't always easy. Try opening. Hello tomorrow.

Found papers, ink, gouache, and colored pencil in my small Mead spiral art journal. Words used to be easy; now I'm gluing and painting the thoughts instead. It works better for now.

Notebook warmups

2012-01-03T08:36:00.001-05:00

Notebook warmups, originally uploaded by studio318.

Keeping it simple, pure and uncomplicated. It works for me in most areas, painting... life in general. Why make it a more difficult journey?

2012

2012-01-02T09:28:00.002-05:00

Bring on 2012!!!!! Life is so good. Hope everyone has a healthy and joyous new year. Peace!

New Year!

2012-01-02T09:25:00.001-05:00

This is how we spent New Year's Eve. Awesome-ness.

Like rain out of the blue.

2011-12-30T10:54:00.001-05:00

Like rain out of the blue., originally uploaded by studio318.

What if... the stars fell like rain out of the blue?

Creativity

2011-12-30T09:50:00.003-05:00

Creativity, originally uploaded by studio318.

Perfect timing--it is the end of 2011 and the end of my small moleskine. I couldn't have planned it better. Although I work in several journals throughout the year, the closing of this particular one seemed to make good art sense. Some journals just need to end and expand the realm of creative space so that one can move on. Now to finish the other 5 journals that I've been doodling in for what seems like forever!

This particular entry was inspired by Michelle Alexander's blog site: http://redpoppyart.blogspot.com/

Here's to a great 2012! May creativity take you places of joy and wonder. xoxoxo

You can't get there by crawling.

2011-12-29T09:53:00.003-05:00

You can't get there by crawling., originally uploaded by studio318.

Moleskine playtime! Anticipating the close of 2011... ah, the coming of a new year. So many possibilities.

Family time

2011-12-29T08:19:00.000-05:00

It's always a magical feeling when Caitlin comes home for a visit. She is so much joy and happiness packed into one incredible daughter. Let's see... how many more days do I have left with her on this break? *sigh* Yesterday she turned 20 years old. I'm trying to not even calculate how "old" that makes me. It's a common saying that time goes by far too quickly--somehow we only recognize the full implication of this fact as we increase in age ourselves. I shall capture each second and savor it like the treasure that it is.

Working on a painting for an auction.

2011-12-06T10:19:00.001-05:00

Working on a painting for an auction., originally uploaded by studio318.

The beginning stages of a mixed media painting. FInishing it up today for a benefit auction this Saturday.

Detail of a mixed media painting that I'm working on.

2011-12-06T10:17:00.001-05:00

Detail of a mixed media painting that I'm working on., originally uploaded by studio318.

The best art comes when it's for a great cause and is freely given. :)

Our tree and my original abstract painting.

2011-11-30T09:15:00.002-05:00

It's always so much fun getting ready for the holidays. There is so much to be thankful for... it's a good life. :)
Our tree and my original abstract painting., originally uploaded by studio318.

Little houses in the style of Kajsa Wikman.

2011-10-25T14:46:00.001-04:00

Little houses in the style of Kajsa Wikman., originally uploaded by studio318.

Saw these cute little houses created by Kajsa Wikman and wanted to try stitching up some for myself. How cute are they? It was nice to take a break from painting and drawing to play around with fabric and hand embroidery.

Doodles

2011-10-21T14:17:00.001-04:00

Doodles, originally uploaded by studio318.

Miniature doodles. Not sure what I plan on doing with them yet; isn't that part of the creative fun though? I'm always lost in the studio black hole anyway. Doll parts are all over the place and other bits are waiting for their grand finish. ;)

Watercolor cacti

2011-10-11T08:47:00.001-04:00

Watercolor cacti, originally uploaded by studio318.

Another quick morning sketch with the everyday ballpoint pen and the watercolor wash added at the end. It was nice to hear from my Flickr friends that this ended up on the Explore page...what fun! :)

Abstract images

2011-10-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

Forest

2011-10-04T07:57:00.002-04:00

A new watercolor and ink sketch in my small moleskine.

love

2011-09-16T10:05:00.001-04:00

love, originally uploaded by studio318.

Listening to Josh Groban in the studio this morning. Art takes on a whole new level when it is conceived with a great musical atmosphere. Time for play... such simple pleasures.

Working on a bird illustration series. It's very relaxing in the studio today; listening to classical music and staying cool indoors.

2011-08-02T10:47:00.002-04:00

daily collage...

2011-07-28T09:22:00.001-04:00

It's a relaxing day in the art studio. I decided to play a little and make a collage in my moleskine. It's always fun to experiment with words and found papers., originally uploaded by studio318.

It's a relaxing day in the art studio. I decided to play a little and make a collage in my small moleskine. It's always fun to experiment with words and found papers; I want to make a point to create at least one collage per day, sort of as a warming up exercise. There really isn't any excuse why an artist can't do this... of course life comes knocking at the studio door and all bets are off, but I'm going to try and remember to play. ;)

Working on an illustration series and enjoying some photography fun as well. Seems like the summer is flying by too quickly. Caitlin will be going back to Yale in less than 30 days.

2011-07-28T07:50:00.002-04:00

In the studio

2011-07-11T09:56:00.001-04:00

In the studio, originally uploaded by studio318.

So, this is as far as I've gotten today--a photo of the paintbrushes! Maybe I should try shooting some open paint tubes. :)

Morning fruit

2011-07-08T15:38:00.001-04:00

Morning fruit, originally uploaded by studio318.

Spending an obsessive amount of time playing with this iphone photography! It could require professional intervention. :) Everything has become good subject material, because everything has some value in life--even down to the most menial events; at least that's what I'm finding out as the shutter is released.

Another abstract sketch. Colored pencils and ink.

2011-06-28T13:00:00.001-04:00

Abstract sketch. Colored pencils and ink., originally uploaded by studio318.

Random sketches in a new smooth vellum sketchbook by Strathmore. I like the way the regular Bristol pencils glide on this paper. Took these photos with my iPhone... perhaps not as clear as the scanner. Too lazy to turn all the equipment on today. :)

Abstract sketches. Colored pencils and ink.

2011-06-28T12:56:00.001-04:00

Abstract sketches. Colored pencils and ink., originally uploaded by studio318.

Loose abstract sketches. Hanging out with the iPhone, colored pencils, and ink pens. Seems like a good day for sketch doodles.

Blueberry season.

2011-06-28T12:25:00.001-04:00

Blueberry season., originally uploaded by studio318.

I wait all year for blueberry season. There is nothing more enjoyable than a nice big bowl of cereal filled with them... a great start to my morning. Now, I just need to get motivated to tackle the to-do list! ;)

Have a seat please...

2011-06-27T09:16:00.001-04:00

Have a seat please... #iphoneography #instagram, originally uploaded by studio318.

Antique browsing. iPhone photograpy. Fun times. :)

Lunch

2011-06-25T14:48:00.001-04:00

Lunch at Pom Pom's #iphoneography #Orlando #instagram, originally uploaded by studio318.

Colorful lamps at Pom Pom's restaurant in Orlando. The food was delicious too... :)

Abstract exercise from magazine photo of a tent.

2011-06-24T14:37:00.001-04:00

Abstract exercise from magazine photo of a tent., originally uploaded by studio318.

Found a photo of a tent in an old 1966 National Geographic magazine and used it as inspiration for an abstract sketch exercise in my art journal. Watercolors and ink.

travel hues

2011-06-24T12:48:00.001-04:00

travel hues, originally uploaded by studio318.

Trying to find some time to sit and do something in the art journals today... keeping a balance between the regular daily needs of the household and the creative urges---not always so easy!!!!

25 years

2011-06-21T11:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Anniversary to us! 25 years of marriage to my best friend. It seems like yesterday...life is beautiful.

Florida sky

2011-06-19T08:20:00.001-04:00

, originally uploaded by studio318.

On the way back to the parking garage... Florida skies are so expressive.

peace

2011-06-17T10:19:00.001-04:00

HIP_321726744.708115, originally uploaded by studio318.

sand, surf, summer... in Florida

Fun zone

2011-06-16T05:40:00.002-04:00

I always run out of day before I run out of fun, so I got up early this morning in order to squeeze just a tad more joy out of this Thursday. I don't understand how anyone can get bored in life--it's an impossibility in my world.

Nature art

2011-06-15T12:18:00.001-04:00

Lichens on blue slate...nature art. Watercolors and pencils in my moleskine.

Flowers and Food

2011-06-14T10:18:00.002-04:00

Flowers and food have become my current artistic medium. Apparently the sketchbook and easel are in rest mode for the time being--all creative energy coming from a machete or a Japanese knife. I am finding myself either in the garden or in the kitchen where I am enjoying creating new beds and new dishes. :) The pencils, watercolors, and acrylics are patiently waiting for my return.

Classic spaghetti and homemade meatballs with crusty bread and red wine.

Blackened tilapia with wild rice, sauteed asparagus, and homemade mango salsa.

I love chopping up ingredients... it's relaxing, in a meditative sort of way. The mango salsa was delicious and worth the effort. Nothing like fresh ingredients!

Dill chicken with creamy caper sauce and sun dried tomatoes... served with roasted red potatoes and red peppers and steamed green beans drenched in garlic butter.

Creamy homemade chicken salad blended with celery, red seedless grapes, sliced almonds and served on buttery croissants and a side apple/strawberry fruit salad.

Summer is a good time to explore new recipes, read new books, relax and do some soul searching, and ultimately get back to the writing discipline. Today I fired my internal editor, so I am enjoying a day without the nasty critic passing judgment on my musings. It is comforting when I release myself into the creative zone with no boundaries.

So far, with the addition of cream cheese and peach preserves on a wheat bagel, this has been a splendid and extraordinary morning. ;) What more could you ask for?

Home from Yale!

2011-05-23T10:53:00.001-04:00

So very happy to report that Caitlin is back at home from her first year at Yale! We are thrilled to have her company and her violin music in our house once again. :))) I can't believe the year went by so quickly. Yikes!

I've been working so hard in the yard. Spring meant some re-sodding and floral planting after our winter freezes destroyed most of the tropicals. Now, if we could only get some rain to help out a little here!!!!

end of spring

2011-05-04T09:30:00.001-04:00

While summer feels imminent here in Central Florida with temps reaching 91 already, I will look longingly back on spring and Easter--typically some of the best weather of the year here in this region. This colored pencil illustration was done with a child-like vision of the spring season, although bunnies are cute all the days of the year.

I still can't believe it is May already, and our girl will be coming back home from her first year at Yale. Time has been accelerated; I'm trying to keep up with the many changes!

floral watercolors

2011-04-29T10:00:00.001-04:00

Some new watercolors... clear blues and purples against a burnt sienna background in a square format. There is something free and ethereal about watercolors when they merge and layer transparently--creates a serene feeling, delicate and soothing.

art published

2011-04-28T09:01:00.000-04:00

I had a nice surprise in the mailbox the other day--one of my watercolor and collage pieces has been selected by Home Goods to be reproduced as framed artwork for their interior decor stores. I'm feeling quite inspired now to keep on sending out my work. I guess you just never know what is going to appeal, or when a sale will happen.

In the meantime, I've been having a lot of fun creating my original mixed media pieces and beading them. It combines my love of miniature drawing/painting and jewelry making.

Now, if I could just get the lawn to behave and stop all this sod and landscape design from encroaching on my art time, I could get REALLY productive. So, I landscape in the morning, and then try to get some creative time for myself later in the afternoon when the heat of the day reaches sweltering levels. Ah, you gotta love Florida heat, bugs, and drought. :) The lawn is NEVER finished.

Nature's Art

2011-04-21T07:08:00.000-04:00

After years of collecting shell bits found on the sand, I thought it would be fun to do something creative with them. Some of the battered and tossed shells were the most interesting; I thought they would be nice to wear... a reminder of wonderful walks along the shore. I used some bone beads that I had in the jewelry making stash and a leather cord, doubled and knotted. A piece of time, captured in wearable art. :)

original art necklace

2011-04-12T15:23:00.000-04:00

Wow! Time surely slipped away from me lately. I've been doing a little part-time work in retail, and I didn't plan out my creative time very wisely here in the studio. Glad I'm getting back into the groove and prioritizing my artistic outlets again.

The other day I was dabbling in the jewelry-making part of my art studio, and I decided to create a focal pendant out of mixed media materials, with an original drawing/art design that I could wear as a necklace. Happily, I ended up with the above piece and enjoyed the process from concept to the finishing crimp! :) I must try that again!

losing or winning?

2011-03-22T06:46:00.001-04:00

"That's what learning is, after all; not whether we lose the game, but how we lose and how we've changed because of it and what we take away from it that we never had before, to apply to other games. Losing, in a curious way, is winning." ~Richard Bach

fractured

2011-03-16T17:56:00.001-04:00

Fractured

Prayers for the people of Japan.

fish, ponds, and flowers

2011-03-09T08:24:00.001-05:00

fish, ponds, and flowers

watercolor pencils and ink in my small moleskine

More and more flowers are bursting open in Central Florida. Our azaleas are blazing down here. Life is beautiful. :)

signals

2011-03-07T15:41:00.000-05:00

Going for the abstract today in the moleskine. Earth colors and organic shapes with watercolor pencils and ink.

cactus whimsy

2011-03-06T08:41:00.000-05:00

Yeah! The college girl is sleeping in her own room this morning. It's great to have her home for 2 weeks. And while I wait for her to awaken for the country breakfast I have planned (which may very well be after lunch), I finished coloring this ink sketch in my moleskine.

Birds, cacti, and pinwheels. Don't ask. I can't explain my brain--it just becomes what it needs to be I suppose. :) Just another doodle to continue my journey with colors and lines. Have a wonderful Sunday! :)

seeds, petals, buds

2011-03-04T11:31:00.000-05:00

Spring Fever. Yes indeed. The colors of joy and hope have invaded my sketchbook. It has been so relaxing to doodle away in my moleskine when I find some spare time in between other art projects and household duties. Everyone needs a little shot of color to help get through the rest of the day!

Easter spring color doodles

2011-03-02T14:13:00.000-05:00

March is here! My doodles took a turn towards brighter, cheerful spring colors this morning--that blue reminded me of the Paas dye kits. Now I'm thinking Easter eggs and marshmallow chicks. :) I have a birthday in March, and I know so many friends that are March babies as well. When I lived up north, March always symbolized "HOPE"... yes indeed, we would get quite giddy with excitement knowing that the daffodils, robins, and lily of the valley were soon to be making their grand entrance. Even though I live in Florida now, March still is a time for excitement as I get my flower gardens prepared for the hotter season and replace specimens that did not survive our mild, yet frosty winter. So, on with spring! I'm ready. :)

Tulips for a friend

2011-02-28T18:48:00.001-05:00

Some of the best art, is the art we give away--a piece of ourselves that speaks through line and color better than any words can convey. This is for a special friend who holds the beauty of a million tulips in her smile.

daisies

2011-02-27T06:04:00.001-05:00

I did this miniature watercolor painting (2.5 x 3.5 inches) for a friend as a thank you gift. Daisies are so carefree... makes me look forward to summer breezes and fresh lemonade. :)

Scheherazade and the ocean

2011-02-24T09:56:00.002-05:00

Scheherazade was playing in iTunes as I sketched this sunrise from a reference photo. Classical music is so inspiring, especially this piece. Scheherazade always reminds me of Caitlin's violin solo when she was concertmaster for the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra. I think Jeff and I both fell in love with this piece in that very moment. So many good memories connected to music... art and music just go together. Happy Thursday!

Indian tapestry

2011-02-24T07:02:00.001-05:00

Waking up early has its benefits. This National Geographic inspired sketch (from a photo of an Indian tapestry) was created before consuming my morning coffee! I used watercolor pencils and ink in my small moleskine. I've made a promise to sketch or be creative at least once a day... whether it be a doodle, painting, design, or some sewing project. Since I was awake already, I wanted to tap into the creative mind before the daily activities crowded into my sphere. Now I'd like the coffee please! :) I NEED the coffee!

stitch therapy

2011-02-23T17:22:00.001-05:00

I don't know why this day seemed to be going in such sloooooowwww motion!!!! My brain was dragging, and I couldn't get motivated to work with any traditional art materials. And I didn't feel like sewing a doll, or painting a gnome, so I put dishes away, did some laundry, bought a few more iPhone apps, and then set out to finish this little 10 inch garden/bird pillow that I started the other day. Yup, a big day of accomplishments! :)

This decorative pillow was made with a muslin background and tiny bits of material scraps that were hanging around the sewing machine area. I just appliqued them on with ivory embroidery thread and left a few pieces with raw edges to give it a cottage look. Two buttons from the found button stash and pieces of lace finished the front. The back is the same green plaid that the bird was cut out of--it goes well with the other pillows on my bed. I have other bits cut out and more birds to start another one, but one pillow today seems to be all I can handle. LOL

Gee, it's only 5:00 pm. Maybe I can do some moleskine sketching later in bed while watching American Idol. After two days of working hard in the garden, I guess this brain fog should have been expected--working in the sun always makes me sleepy. ;)

old magazines

2011-02-23T08:57:00.000-05:00

I found some old National Geographic magazines for sale at a garage sale, and I decided to skim through them looking for some sketching exercises. These interesting mophead looking botanicals captured my attention... watercolor pencils and ink in my small moleskine.

southwest

2011-02-19T18:14:00.004-05:00

Grateful for the beauty found in nature--the colors, shapes, and lines are there to behold... watercolor pencils and ink in my moleskine. Peace friends! Hope you are having a fabulous weekend.

Leaving Port

2011-02-18T10:11:00.001-05:00

Yale University's Annual CD project had 100 entries. They only picked 13 songs for this year's CD release. Congrats to our daughter Caitlin for being one of the amazing 13 musicians to have their original music selected. "Leaving Port" was the one they chose. Way to go Caitlin! :)))))

I-4 images

2011-02-17T13:37:00.000-05:00

Some patterns I saw while driving on I-4. Watercolor pencils and ink in my small moleskine.

nature inspired

2011-02-17T08:50:00.001-05:00

Inspired by the circular shapes I found in a magazine, I continued to develop design ideas from the basic idea of all things round. I love circles. I think it's because they never seem to have an ending; I like that.

These images, developed from collage inspirations in my moleskine, are meant to give me a place to explore possible shapes for carving original rubber stamps. I think the organic floral pattern would make a nice stamp for journals and possibly some fabric printing. The cucumbers would be an interesting one to carve as well. I like the idea of the circle with the seed bits as a repeat motif. I could be carving later! :)

Morning minis--Tulips

2011-02-12T10:14:00.001-05:00

Tulips appeared this morning--at least mini-sized versions on watercolor paper that is. (2.5 inches x 3.5 inches). I woke up at six a.m., and I tried to do something quiet until Jeff woke up to make the coffee. So, here is my interpretation of spring. An abstract-like garden; dew-laced and misty, yet with a hint of warm sunshine peeking through. Have a wonderful Saturday everyone--it's gorgeous here in central Florida!

Etsy doll shop

2011-02-11T12:04:00.000-05:00

Today I decided to list some of my original art gnome dolls and Kokeshi cloth dolls on Etsy. I haven't listed items in the shop for quite some time, but the art studio is getting crowded, so I figured it was time to move some of these little friends along. I'm happy to report that a little gnome boy has been purchased already! So happy he will be going to a sweet home. Thanks to all my friends and fans who encourage me to keep creating all this stuff. ;) I appreciate you.

And as I was writing this... another gnome was purchased! How cool is that? So much fun. Bye bye red, woodsman gnome doll. He's going off to the cold, frozen northeast.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/studio318?ref=pr_shop

I AM a river rock...

2011-02-09T17:29:00.002-05:00

What is your life philosophy? Do you ponder what is significant in your world on a daily basis? I do this--oftentimes it is in the middle of the night when I'd rather be sleeping, but I go with the flow. Speaking of which, I am a river... ever changing; yet the same basic nature anchors me.

I have a thing about stones--the shape and texture of them are a bit of an obsession. I need to be near more rocks. Florida has NO rocks--none of any significance. It is quite sad actually. I will have to draw my own rocks. I do take rocks home with me when I travel. I guess that makes me a rock thief!

inspired bits

2011-02-09T11:44:00.001-05:00

Today's goal is to explore the freedom of spontaneous collage. The only productive housework chore on the agenda is to go pick up some seafood at Publix for my scampi recipe tonight. The rest of the day is dedicated to making sure I play hard in the art studio. Wednesdays shouldn't be stressful. Yes, I believe I read that rule somewhere, and if not, then I'm making it official now! ;)

Mouse-land

2011-02-08T17:53:00.001-05:00

I couldn't resist doing another mouse, but this time I ended up sewing around the felt body with my Singer sewing machine, since I got bored with threading the floss each time I ran out of thread. I did use hand-stitching for the clothing though, just to keep the "charm" factor going. I must admit that I like the hand-stitched look around the body a little better, but I was in an experimental mode and was anxious to get to the dressing of the mouse!

After the mouse obsession, I created another small project from the Hand-Stitched Felt book by Kata Golda. I thought the cute little business card holder was perfect to hold my new doll cards. I'm such a sucker for little details; I ended up creating a sweet pansy type flower with little bits of left over felt as an applique for the front of the holder. Unfortunately, I never did get to the felt finger puppets project. Sigh. There is always tomorrow. Why can't the day move along a bit more slowly? I seem to run out of creative time most days.

felt doll project

2011-02-07T12:16:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed the challenge of hand sewing an entire doll without the use of the sewing machine. This mouse was created from a pattern in Kata Golda's book Hand-Stitched Felt. My stitching is uneven and I had to resist the urge to attempt "perfection"--this is always such a big deal for me. :) But the homemade look adds a lot of charm, so I went with the quaintness of it all and tried to embrace the oddness of my stitching hand.

The book has other adorable projects using felt and easy to find hand-sewing supplies; I think I'd like to give the tiny finger puppets a try next.

Valentine Dolls

2011-02-02T12:25:00.001-05:00

This morning was spent on sewing projects intended to become surprise Valentine gifts. I am working on two rag dolls with felt hair and hand painted faces with a tiny heart pocket in front to hold tooth fairy specimens, or other tiny valuables. It's probably time to take a break from the world of cloth dolls, even though I still have one more face to paint on the blonde doll. I do want to get to some housework today... well, perhaps that's not so important! :) Maybe I'll just keep painting.

walking

2011-02-01T19:22:00.002-05:00

HIP_318104567.308608, originally uploaded by studio318.

There's something special about walking along the beach. Serene.

New Smyrna

2011-02-01T19:19:00.002-05:00

HIP_318108438.506114, originally uploaded by studio318.

We spent the day on the beach Sunday, just the two of us... enjoying the sun and surf... playing with the camera apps. It was fantastic!

journal notes

2011-01-31T12:54:00.001-05:00

Some quick moleskine spreads... words and images, capturing a thought, a poem, or a daily activity.

running and shooting

2011-01-28T12:06:00.000-05:00

My morning run around the neighborhood of Wekiva was fabulous. The lake was beautiful with the sun shining on the water, and my reward was photo time with my iPhone. Click here to see the flickr set I posted using the Hipstamatic app.

photogaphy

2011-01-28T08:55:00.002-05:00

I've been taking a little break from the paints and drawing tools this past week--too busy enjoying my little iPhone and the photography apps I found in the app store. Yes, it takes so little to amuse me.

The weather has warmed up here in Florida, and thank goodness because Ole Winter and I are not fine friends! I dislike socks, jackets, and other extra clothing items. :O My day gets going, and before I know it, I am getting ready for dinner. I am easily distracted. Where does the afternoon go anyway? There are so many fun things to do in one day; it becomes hard to choose.

I've also been reading more too. I basically go in cycles; I just finished reading Wharton's The Age of Innocence, which kept me up until 1:15 in the morning hours... 'twas a very good read--excellent writing stye. The classics are the best in my opinion. Last night I started Ethan Frome. I'm not sure what this morning will produce. Some days I just have to let "it" happen. Those are usually the best days indeed. :) Happy weekend to everyone!

My Creative Space

2011-01-27T18:28:00.001-05:00

My Creative Space, originally uploaded by studio318.

So, although I did not paint today, I did think about my studio. I ended up playing with my iPhone and the Hipstamatic app that I downloaded from the app store. Hopefully, I will play with traditional art materials tomorrow. Photography fun has distracted me! :)

2011-01-26T19:07:00.002-05:00

, originally uploaded by studio318.

Playing around with filters in Instagram app for iPhone.