Happy Hallowe'en!
Well, by the time you read this, the last minute adjustments will have been made to Hallowe'en costumes, someone is ready by the door to hand out the treats and the dog is going crazy barking at all the strange creatures coming up to the front door. Life is pretty much normal on this, the strangest night of the year.
After all, it isn't every night that little ballerinas, teddy bears, Spiderman and Wonder Woman come up to the door asking for candy.
But there is something else going on while these festivities take place. Stores across many countries are having their employees acting as elves and by the time Monday morning rolls around, most stores will have started in their transformation to become Winter Wonderlands and are displaying merchandise so you too can achieve this magical effect. Already, shoppers have been scouring the aisles looking for bargains so they can begin the transformation ahead of their neighbours. Competitions spring up in neighbourhoods to see who can put up the most twinkle lights along their porches, eaves, wrapped around trees and anything else that is relatively stable and can support the weight of all those strands of lights. In other words, the annual rite of holiday insanity has begun.
Personally, I don't go crazy decorating my flat. A little decorative tablecentre on the diningroom table, a wreath on the door, a few extra candles and a few ornaments sprinkled around the sitting room suffice for my need to be part of the festivities. I might try a small tree this year to see if I can persuade Molly Cat to leave the decorations on it rather than run by, grab one and race around the flat to see if she can get me to chase her. Not going to happen! If I do put up a little table top tree, it will have kitten proof decorations and no tinsel, angel hair or sharp objects of any shape form or description will be allowed. One of the worst things a cat or dog can ingest besides chocolate is tinsel or angel hair. Besides a trip to the vet, you may incur the cost of expensive surgery to remove these objects as well as the trauma of seeing your beloved pet in distress. So, I'm asking you now to be very aware of what types of ornaments you use and make sure that your children, pets and significant others are going to enjoy a safe, but fun holiday.
So, back to ornaments. This week my journey has taken me through Santa's workshop and I've been learning to decorate little wooden trees, wooden tree ornaments along with holiday cards, little envelopes made especially to hold gift cards, calendars, gift tags and place cards for your dining table. Check through my pictures to see these various ideas that are not that difficult to make. They just take a little time and imagination.
A trip to your local arts and crafts store will help you find all sorts of wooden ornaments that you paint yourself to add a custom touch to your home. A couple of nutcrackers done up in colours to accent your sitting room and perched up on the fireplace mantle will look fun. For years, we've all thought of the holidays as being a sea of red and green on anything from tree ornaments right on down to table linens. Now, we embrace other colours although retailers will have you thinking that one particular colour will be the fashion of the season. That's nice if that colour fits into your home's colour palette, but I don't quite feel like painting the livingroom so that I'm one of the fashionistas of home decor. Take a look at the ornaments that I've taken pictures of and you'll get an idea of how my flat will look this year.
When it comes to cards, pick a colour theme and buy just those colours in cardstock. You don't need every colour of the rainbow to make cards, gift tags and so on. Keep to your colour theme and use every scrap of paper that you buy and you will save money in the long run. Have fun making these decorations and cards, maybe devote an hour or two every night or Sunday afternoons for the next month, and you'll be ready to deck your halls by December 01. That's my official date to decorate. I look forward to putting the wreath up on the door and one neighbour told me her little grandson is quite taken with what I put up each year. He seems to like colourful wreaths, last year being metallic blues, silvers and such. This year will likely be aqua, teal, silver with lots of glitter. That could all change between now and December 01 and I promise that you will have a picture of the finalized version.
Your first task is to get organized. Go through last years decorations and see which ones you want to use this year. Make a list of what you're going to need and head out to pick up the supplies. I guarantee that makinig your own will be much more fun and if you do it with your children, your sister or your mother, you'll be making memories. And, it gives you that quality time to spend with your loved ones and check in on them to see if all is well, what might be on their mind and how they feel about the upcoming festivities. It's a win, win situation and you get a jump on the season as a bonus.
If you have any questions about how any of these ornaments were done, just fill in the comment form by going down to the end of the post, click on the word "comment" and a window will open up where you can type in what you would like to say. If you have any questions about a particular ornament that you would like to make, but aren't certain how, let me know and I'll see what I can find out for you and post the answer. Meanwhile, I'd better get back to the design table before a certain feline ends up with glitter from one end of the room to the other.
Sincerely, Rutheemac
P.S. Thursday's post will show more pictures. Too many to put into this post, so I'll keep adding pictures as I post
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Life's Little Detours
Good Morning! Hope your week is going well! It's always such a relief to reach Thursday and can see that the weekend is in view. This is one of the most magical weekends in the year with Hallowe'en falling on Sunday. I love seeing all the little ones dressed up in costume and living the part of the creature, real or imaginary, that they've chosen to be for this special day. Truth is, we kind of envy them and wish we could be someone or something else at various times in our life. Wouldn't it be nice to try to be something else for one day and then revert back to our usual form once the day was over? That leads me into this day's post. After reading my last post, Liza Lambertini, my magical artist who captures the pure essence of faeries in her art, contacted me and wondered if I had always wanted to create, what inspired me and what brought me to this creative journey at this point in my life. She also mentioned that in a previous blog that I had said that I wasn't creative and what made me change my mind. I've been mulling these thoughts over for the past few days and hope that my response encourages others to take a chance, go out on a limb and try something new. Liza, your questions made me do some deep soul searching. I wasn't keen on art class when I was in the lower grades. In those grades, art was a mandatory lesson, but once you entered high school, art was optional. You needed to have a certain number of credits in various areas of study and art wasn't one of them. I always kind of envied the art students and peeked into the classroom when I went by, seeing the students so intent upon their canvases. But, my focus was on what I considered to be the "real academic" subjects that were taught. English, mathematics, chemistry and so on were where I parked my focus and didn't waver for a few years. At one point, I somehow decided that becoming a floral designer would be the best option for me. True to form, I researched the schooling necessary, where floral design was taught, the cost of the course and decided then and there that this was the best way for me to get out on my own, hopefully in my own apartment. I can't say that my parents were overly thrilled with my choice of career. They tried to make me consider teaching, nursing, becoming a nutritionist (sure don't know where that idea came from!) and other fields of employment. The problem with all the suggestions that they put forward for consideration was that they all involved extra time in college or university and for all intents and purposes, living at home. I wanted desperately to be on my own, living my own life and hopefully, that would mean living in another city. Becoming a floral designer was the answer to my prayers and I was determined to make it happen. Well, I did make it happen and I did move out on my own in another city. I worked in a small flower shop and worked my way from doing the grunt work (wiring and taping flowers for the head designer to make into bridal bouquets) to becoming the head designer myself. It took a few years, but I enjoyed working in a place where there were flowers, plants and a very social atmosphere. But, for me, floral design was more mathematical than it was art. Yes, I used various colour palettes, a seasonal array of flowers, but the actual design of the flowers in an arrangement followed a mathematical equation or at least it did in my mind. My arrangements were nice, the colours worked, but there wasn't always an emotional bond with what I was doing. I was really good at analyzing stock orders, negotiating prices with wholesalers, balancing the cash and doing all the business related aspects the position required. I did enjoy working with flowers but didn't see the connection between what I was doing and being an artist. I wasn't one to care much about fashion, make-up or hair styles. I was just a very plain woman working at a job that paid the bills. Although I wouldn't admit it then and maybe I really didn't know it because I even had myself fooled, I wasn't happy with my life. Years went by, the industry went into chaos when supermarkets started having floral departments and I saw the writing on the wall. I had better update my skill base or I would be in serious trouble. I got into some adult education courses, learned how to work on a computer and in time ended up working in administrative work at the university. Student life was the area I was stationed in and for 9 years I worked as support staff for the two residence managers. It was a lively office, you had to think on your feet, be prepared for anything from a fire alarm to a dripping student, wearing nothing but a bath towel, who had locked themself out of their room. The life I lived was fast paced, stressful and I loved it. But there came a point where I needed something else in my life. Something inside of me was telling me that there was a part of me that wasn't being satisfied. My sister suggested I read "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron and that was when I found what I was looking for and hadn't realized it. I had always loved reading. Reading a book involved me to the point that I was seeing what I was reading. The whole story was played out in my mind and in full colour. After reading "The Artist's Way", I started the obligatory journaling and that helped me cope with some of the stress of the work day. At the same time, health issues were surfacing and getting increasingly problematic leading me to become more and more depressed. I started painting little greeting cards to keep my mind off of my problems. It was at this point that I was evolving into the person that not only enjoyed dabbling in art, but needed it to help me express myself when words couldn't and I was discovering a new part of me that I hadn't really taken note of - the creative me. I started reading books on various art mediums and got myself deeper into the realm of the artworld. I found that I enjoyed the textures of paper, that there was a different "feeling" in different brands of acrylic paints, that there was a big difference in the various brands of coloured pencils. All of this turned into a passion and I lived my days as a secretary, but my evenings were taken over by anything and everything artistic. Finally, just over two years ago, my health issues dominated my life and as a result, I had to leave the working world. That was one of the most difficult transitions I had ever made and it took a lot out of me. If I hadn't had my interest in art I don't know how I would have managed. When I was able to, I would work on painting little greeting cards, and rest whenever I had to which was frequently. I started painting on canvas and that opened a new door for me. I could rest in bed and read about techniques that I would try at my next painting session. My life revolved around doctor's appointments, resting and when I had the energy, I painted. At this point, my life still revolves around medical appointments but includes art to a much larger degree and level of importance. I need to paint, to try new things and I have a thirst for knowledge of all things creative. I now define myself as an artist. I find inspiration everywhere I look. The way the fruit and vegetables are arranged in the grocery store, a pattern in fabric or on a napkin, the texture of various types of papers are all things that I now notice. I can't resist trying new colour combinations. I still love making greeting cards and when I discovered the art of rubber stamping, well if there was a stampers' anonymous, I would be a charter member. Art is the medecine that allows me to enjoy life even though I have serious limitations. So this is the start of my artistic journey. I now know that I always had creativity in me, but it took a health crisis to make me look deeper into myself and find it. I've also discovered that I love all things pertaining to Asian art. Chinese block prints, painting, kanji symbols and so much more interest me. I'm still learning what I like and what I'd like to try. Manga interests me as does gothic art, art that has a dark, edgey side to it as well as the sweetness and innocence of faeries. I'd love to write and illustrate a children's book, but know that I have a long way to go before I'm ready to venture down that pathway. My interests are wide and varied. And, I'm never bored! I still miss working with the students and it's a much quieter life that I live now. The social interaction is something that I miss and that is what led me to Twitter where I've met the most incredible people from artists in all fields who chat with me, encourage me when I'm feeling doubtful, chefs who are so inspiring and willing to share tips, advice right on to university/college students. I wanted to share something of myself, my experiences in hopes of helping someone else who might be at a crossroads and need to find something to bring new meaning, definition to their life. That was when I decided to set up this blog. Where would my next detour take me? That was when I set up an online gallery of my paintings, greeting cards and whatever else intrigues my creative soul. My online gallery pushes me to aspire to do more and by doing more I'll improve my techniques, finesse my style and maybe when I'm ready for it, participate in an art show. What helps is the knowledge that I can put down the brush and rest when necessary. That is important and allows me to work at a comfortable pace and not become stressed. I don't need to push myself until I'm overly tired and not enjoying what I'm doing. Taking care of me is something I've accepted as not only being okay, but necessary and not a sign of weakness. I had it all wrong for so many years. I believed and accepted that I had to work until I had been depleted of all inner resources and that the pursuit of something as frivolous as artistic ventures was something that a real adult wouldn't do. I know now how wrong that was. In order to really live life as it should be lived, it meant that I was allowed to have some fun. Who knew? The moral of this story is to embrace those detours life tosses in our way. Look inside, deep inside and in this moment ask yourself "What do I want to be when I grow up?" Then see how you can go about making it happen. You'll be a much healthier and happier adult if you do. *Iris Folding for Christmas from Annie's Attic - great book to give you some inspiration for different holiday cards. ********************************************************************************** Don't forget the tiara challenge! Decorate your tiara, you do have one don't you? Take a picture of yourself wearing it, of your pet wearing it or just of the tiara and use this picture as your Twitter avatar for the weekend. Have your avatar posted late Friday or early Saturday and then fill in the comment form telling me your Twitter name (i.e. @rutheemac) and maybe your thoughts on this blog. :) I'll set up a list of the Twitter names and keep updating it so we can all go back to the site to see each other's creative side. Let's have some fun with this. The kids have Hallowe'en, so let's give ourselves the green light to let our inner diva come out to play for the weekend. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Tiara Challenge Participants @ShardArtist @rutheemac |
Life's Little Detours
- Good Morning!
Hope your week is going well! It's always such a relief to reach Thursday and can see that the weekend is in view. This is one of the most magical weekends in the year with Hallowe'en falling on Sunday. I love seeing all the little ones dressed up in costume and living the part of the creature, real or imaginary, that they've chosen to be for this special day. Truth is, we kind of envy them and wish we could be someone or something else at various times in our life. Wouldn't it be nice to try to be something else for one day and then revert back to our usual form once the day was over?
That leads me into this day's post. After reading my last post, Liza Lambertini, my magical artist who captures the pure essence of faeries in her art, contacted me and wondered if I had always wanted to create, what inspired me and what brought me to this creative journey at this point in my life. She also mentioned that in a previous blog that I had said that I wasn't creative and what made me change my mind. I've been mulling these thoughts over for the past few days and hope that my response encourages others to take a chance, go out on a limb and try something new.
Liza, your questions made me do some deep soul searching. I wasn't keen on art class when I was in the lower grades. In those grades, art was a mandatory lesson, but once you entered high school, art was optional. You needed to have a certain number of credits in various areas of study and art wasn't one of them. I always kind of envied the art students and peeked into the classroom when I went by, seeing the students so intent upon their canvases. But, my focus was on what I considered to be the "real academic" subjects that were taught. English, mathematics, chemistry and so on were where I parked my focus and didn't waver for a few years. At one point, I somehow decided that becoming a floral designer would be the best option for me. True to form, I researched the schooling necessary, where floral design was taught, the cost of the course and decided then and there that this was the best way for me to get out on my own, hopefully in my own apartment. I can't say that my parents were overly thrilled with my choice of career. They tried to make me consider teaching, nursing, becoming a nutritionist (sure don't know where that idea came from!) and other fields of employment. The problem with all the suggestions that they put forward for consideration was that they all involved extra time in college or university and for all intents and purposes, living at home. I wanted desperately to be on my own, living my own life and hopefully, that would mean living in another city. Becoming a floral designer was the answer to my prayers and I was determined to make it happen.
Well, I did make it happen and I did move out on my own in another city. I worked in a small flower shop and worked my way from doing the grunt work (wiring and taping flowers for the head designer to make into bridal bouquets) to becoming the head designer myself. It took a few years, but I enjoyed working in a place where there were flowers, plants and a very social atmosphere. But, for me, floral design was more mathematical than it was art. Yes, I used various colour palettes, a seasonal array of flowers, but the actual design of the flowers in an arrangement followed a mathematical equation or at least it did in my mind. My arrangements were nice, the colours worked, but there wasn't always an emotional bond with what I was doing. I was really good at analyzing stock orders, negotiating prices with wholesalers, balancing the cash and doing all the business related aspects the position required. I did enjoy working with flowers but didn't see the connection between what I was doing and being an artist. I wasn't one to care much about fashion, make-up or hair styles. I was just a very plain woman working at a job that paid the bills. Although I wouldn't admit it then and maybe I really didn't know it because I even had myself fooled, I wasn't happy with my life.
Years went by, the industry went into chaos when supermarkets started having floral departments and I saw the writing on the wall. I had better update my skill base or I would be in serious trouble. I got into some adult education courses, learned how to work on a computer and in time ended up working in administrative work at the university. Student life was the area I was stationed in and for 9 years I worked as support staff for the two residence managers. It was a lively office, you had to think on your feet, be prepared for anything from a fire alarm to a dripping student, wearing nothing but a bath towel, who had locked themself out of their room. The life I lived was fast paced, stressful and I loved it. But there came a point where I needed something else in my life. Something inside of me was telling me that there was a part of me that wasn't being satisfied. My sister suggested I read "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron and that was when I found what I was looking for and hadn't realized it.
I had always loved reading. Reading a book involved me to the point that I was seeing what I was reading. The whole story was played out in my mind and in full colour. After reading "The Artist's Way", I started the obligatory journaling and that helped me cope with some of the stress of the work day. At the same time, health issues were surfacing and getting increasingly problematic leading me to become more and more depressed. I started painting little greeting cards to keep my mind off of my problems. It was at this point that I was evolving into the person that not only enjoyed dabbling in art, but needed it to help me express myself when words couldn't and I was discovering a new part of me that I hadn't really taken note of - the creative me. I started reading books on various art mediums and got myself deeper into the realm of the artworld. I found that I enjoyed the textures of paper, that there was a different "feeling" in different brands of acrylic paints, that there was a big difference in the various brands of coloured pencils. All of this turned into a passion and I lived my days as a secretary, but my evenings were taken over by anything and everything artistic.
Finally, just over two years ago, my health issues dominated my life and as a result, I had to leave the working world. That was one of the most difficult transitions I had ever made and it took a lot out of me. If I hadn't had my interest in art I don't know how I would have managed. When I was able to, I would work on painting little greeting cards, and rest whenever I had to which was frequently. I started painting on canvas and that opened a new door for me. I could rest in bed and read about techniques that I would try at my next painting session. My life revolved around doctor's appointments, resting and when I had the energy, I painted.
At this point, my life still revolves around medical appointments but includes art to a much larger degree and level of importance. I need to paint, to try new things and I have a thirst for knowledge of all things creative. I now define myself as an artist. I find inspiration everywhere I look. The way the fruit and vegetables are arranged in the grocery store, a pattern in fabric or on a napkin, the texture of various types of papers are all things that I now notice. I can't resist trying new colour combinations. I still love making greeting cards and when I discovered the art of rubber stamping, well if there was a stampers' anonymous, I would be a charter member. Art is the medecine that allows me to enjoy life even though I have serious limitations. So this is the start of my artistic journey. I now know that I always had creativity in me, but it took a health crisis to make me look deeper into myself and find it. I've also discovered that I love all things pertaining to Asian art. Chinese block prints, painting, kanji symbols and so much more interest me. I'm still learning what I like and what I'd like to try. Manga interests me as does gothic art, art that has a dark, edgey side to it as well as the sweetness and innocence of faeries. I'd love to write and illustrate a children's book, but know that I have a long way to go before I'm ready to venture down that pathway. My interests are wide and varied. And, I'm never bored!
I still miss working with the students and it's a much quieter life that I live now. The social interaction is something that I miss and that is what led me to Twitter where I've met the most incredible people from artists in all fields who chat with me, encourage me when I'm feeling doubtful, chefs who are so inspiring and willing to share tips, advice right on to university/college students. I wanted to share something of myself, my experiences in hopes of helping someone else who might be at a crossroads and need to find something to bring new meaning, definition to their life. That was when I decided to set up this blog. Where would my next detour take me? That was when I set up an online gallery of my paintings, greeting cards and whatever else intrigues my creative soul. My online gallery pushes me to aspire to do more and by doing more I'll improve my techniques, finesse my style and maybe when I'm ready for it, participate in an art show. What helps is the knowledge that I can put down the brush and rest when necessary. That is important and allows me to work at a comfortable pace and not become stressed. I don't need to push myself until I'm overly tired and not enjoying what I'm doing. Taking care of me is something I've accepted as not only being okay, but necessary and not a sign of weakness. I had it all wrong for so many years. I believed and accepted that I had to work until I had been depleted of all inner resources and that the pursuit of something as frivolous as artistic ventures was something that a real adult wouldn't do. I know now how wrong that was. In order to really live life as it should be lived, it meant that I was allowed to have some fun. Who knew?
The moral of this story is to embrace those detours life tosses in our way. Look inside, deep inside and in this moment ask yourself "What do I want to be when I grow up?" Then see how you can go about making it happen. You'll be a much healthier and happier adult if you do.
**********************************************************************************
Don't forget the tiara challenge! Decorate your tiara, you do have one don't you? Take a picture of yourself wearing it, of your pet wearing it or just of the tiara and use this picture as your Twitter avatar for the weekend. Have your avatar posted late Friday or early Saturday and then fill in the comment form telling me your Twitter name (i.e. @rutheemac) and maybe your thoughts on this blog. :) I'll set up a list of the Twitter names and keep updating it so we can all go back to the site to see each other's creative side. Let's have some fun with this. The kids have Hallowe'en, so let's give ourselves the green light to let our inner diva come out to play for the weekend.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Living "In the Moment"
Good Morning!
I owe Mary-Jo a big thank you for making me stop and re-evaluate myself, my life and where I wanted to go with it. So, Mary-Jo, this post is dedicated to you for your help in making me live in the moment.
What does the phrase mean to you? To me, it means to live in the here and now not thinking so much about what could or might happen. Deal with what is happening now, pin point what you don't like about it, whether it's your life, your job, or your livingroom and deal with it in a positive way. Don't approach the thing you don't like negatively, approach it with optimism. You don't like your life, what part of it don't you like, why does that part bother you so much, why are you spinning your wheels not doing something about it? You identify what it is that is negative and keep asking your self question after question until you find the underlying truth. For me, I wasn't really happy with the way life was rolling out for me, but the reality of it was I was the one putting up the stop signs, detours, delays and so on. I was responsible for my own fate.
What a concept! It was so true and even though deep down I had realized that I had to make some changes, it took Mary-Jo and this book to make me realize this, admit it openly and force myself to move on and do something about it. I wanted and still want to be a mixed media artist so badly that . . . What was I doing to further my aspirations? Well, I wasn't really putting myself out there, out in the world saying not that I want to be an artist but rather I am an artist with a lot to learn, but that doesn't mean I'm not an artist or that I'm not creative. For my entire life, I had always made do with what came my way. That was good enough for me, I didn't really deserve more. Hold on, stop the bus! Did I just say I wasn't good enough? Basically, that was just what I was saying and even worse, I believed it. Making it even more devious, those were the vibes I was sending out to all. My bad! I had a lot of thinking to do and I had better get thinking fast, make a complete 360 turn and make myself the master of my own fate. I had better begin to live in the moment, stop thinking about past mistakes, hopefully I had learned from them and moved on in life. Not so much, so it seems. I perpetuated the view of myself as being not so smart, making poor choices and not knowing where I was heading or why. Further, I was worrying about the future when I hadn't dealt with the present. It doesn't work that way. So, what I've learned is that I need to kinder to myself and not reprimand me for not moving ahead fast enough, not doing enough, not knowing where to turn. It was up to me right this very moment to know what was bothering me or what it was that I needed and work on accomplishing and finessing the fine details, all the while feeling that this was to be, this was what I wanted and be positive about it in how I thought about myself. I have every right to be an artist if I choose to be. There is no cosmic law out there telling me that no, that's not for you, you really can't do that. Why not? Because I didn't believe in myself.
So, what changes have I made? I define myself as an artist, a mixed media artist. When I'm in the art supply store and another customer asks me if I'm an artist, I answer in the afirmative. Yes, I am an artist. YES, I AM an ARTIST. Sorry, didn't mean to yell, but I had to make my point. Turns out that while I have a lot to learn in technique, I do have direction in my art, I know and understand my weaknesses, I am working to be the person I want to be because I am that person. Wait a minute, I hear everyone out there thinking - she said she has a lot to learn so how can she be an artist? The same way a doctor is a doctor. Even though s/he has the initials M.D. after their name and has graduated from medical school in the top ten, doesn't mean that the learning stops there. A doctor is always updating his or her knowledge in order to keep up with new advances in medicine. But, that doesn't change the fact that the doctor is and will be a doctor. So, let's push this a little further - I am an artist and will always be working on my technique, trying new ones, pushing my limits, trying new mediums. The search for knowledge isn't an indicator that I am any less of an artist, it's an admission that I realize that in this moment, I still have a lot to learn and will always be in the process of learning.
Give this a little thought. Believe in yourself. Think about what it is that you want to change in your life and facilitate that change. I believe you can do it, but more importantly, do you believe you can?
These past few days I've been painting with a vengence. I'm tackling the canvases that have been giving me problems and starting to work on other pieces. I've been reading about colour theory, techniques and practising drawing images that appeal to me. I'm working on my fears and acquiring knowledge. I'd say it's been a positive week!
I've previously put up pictures of "Millenium" and "Losing My Religion" for you to see. I'm not finished with these pieces, but it's getting so close that I can feel how good it's going to be to hang these up on the wall and can say that I'm done. "Millenium" has a companion canvas at long last. "The 80's" shows images of that decade that stand out for me and for the couple who will have the two canvases. Images that define the two decades, both of which were important to each of us for various reasons.
The third canvas, " Losing My Religion" is becoming more and more significant to me with each brush stroke. This piece has me thinking, questioning old beliefs, wondering about what I had been taught as a student attending parochial school during my formative years. For so long, I had just accepted what I had been taught about religion, never stopping to ask myself if I had any doubts, fears or questions. You didn't question your faith, you accepted what you were taught in religious studies and could repeat back like little parrots what the teacher had put forth in that lesson. To question any of the concepts would have meant instant damnation or at very least a call from the school to your parents. Yes, I was a good little soldier and memorized my cathechism lessons with due diligence. It's only now, as I paint out the story, that I start to question openly what I had so obediently believed. Maybe this piece came to my mind as a painting that needed to be put to canvas because it's only now that I feel confident enough to actively question whether I truly believe or if there are some parts of the whole belief system that I need to rethink, digest or reject. These are my thoughts as I paint, they may upset you or cause you to question your own set of beliefs. That's a good thing. To close off a subject and never discuss it whether or not we all agree on a point of view would be closing doors of communication. Look at the painting and talk about it with your friends or even better, leave me a comment. Tell me what it is you like or don't like about the painting and why. How does this painting make you feel? Do you have a sense of unease as if fire and brimstone will come down on all of us or do you feel a sense of relief that someone else has questions about all this religious knowledge that we openly accepted and never dared to question? Let me know and I'll post all the comments and respond to what you have to say. I'm not saying I'm right, I'm saying I have some doubts and still need to decide. If and when the verdict comes in I'll let you know.
Meanwhile, I hope last week was one in which you found some peace of mind artistically. Hopefully, you thought about what you might like to try whether it's painting, writing a blog (yes, that's an art!), embroidery or reading a book on an art form that you've always wanted to try. Here's hoping that whatever you choose brings you the same internal comfort that I feel when I'm painting.
Have a great week and don't forget about our tiara challenge! I'm hoping to see some real divas and knights in action. Don't forget to come back to this blog once you've posted your avatar on Twitter and let me know your username, i.e. @rutheemac, so that I can keep an updated list of who we should all be looking for when we log into Twitter. I'd love to hear your comments about how you came to decorate your tiara the way you did. You can post your avatar pic with you wearing your tiara, your pet wearing your tiara or whatever catches your fancy. Be original and have some fun!
Sincerely, Rutheemac
It's another autumnal morning as I sit here typing away. Molly is perched on top of her "kitty condo" on the watch for any daring birds that might happen to perch on our balcony. The truth is when they do, Molly hides behind the curtains furtively watching these tresspassers, but too afraid to do anything about them. I'm sitting at my desk watching her antics and sipping a nice hot mug of tea. We're living in the moment, this moment, right now, that's what we're doing and consciously aware of it.
I hadn't really given this phrase much thought until I won a ring from @MerCuriosJewels and this was the phrase engraved on it. See Mary-Jo's web site listed to the right under the heading "Some other sites you might enjoy." Mary-Jo ran a contest and I was the lucky winner of the ring. I wear it all the time and have spent a lot of time thinking about the phrase she engraved on the ring. Mary-Jo is a very positive person and has been a great influence in my life during the short time that I've known her through our tweets. She's the kind of person you need in your life because she doesn't sugar coat anything and tells you exactly what she thinks. She picked up on my doubting myself, who I was, what I was doing and so on. She pretty much told me in no uncertain terms that I'm in charge of my own fate and it would be wise for me to read "Excuse Me, Your Life is Waiting" written by Lynn Grabhorn. Once I read the book, I would understand how badly I needed to read and put into practice the concept of positive thinking.
I owe Mary-Jo a big thank you for making me stop and re-evaluate myself, my life and where I wanted to go with it. So, Mary-Jo, this post is dedicated to you for your help in making me live in the moment.
What does the phrase mean to you? To me, it means to live in the here and now not thinking so much about what could or might happen. Deal with what is happening now, pin point what you don't like about it, whether it's your life, your job, or your livingroom and deal with it in a positive way. Don't approach the thing you don't like negatively, approach it with optimism. You don't like your life, what part of it don't you like, why does that part bother you so much, why are you spinning your wheels not doing something about it? You identify what it is that is negative and keep asking your self question after question until you find the underlying truth. For me, I wasn't really happy with the way life was rolling out for me, but the reality of it was I was the one putting up the stop signs, detours, delays and so on. I was responsible for my own fate.
What a concept! It was so true and even though deep down I had realized that I had to make some changes, it took Mary-Jo and this book to make me realize this, admit it openly and force myself to move on and do something about it. I wanted and still want to be a mixed media artist so badly that . . . What was I doing to further my aspirations? Well, I wasn't really putting myself out there, out in the world saying not that I want to be an artist but rather I am an artist with a lot to learn, but that doesn't mean I'm not an artist or that I'm not creative. For my entire life, I had always made do with what came my way. That was good enough for me, I didn't really deserve more. Hold on, stop the bus! Did I just say I wasn't good enough? Basically, that was just what I was saying and even worse, I believed it. Making it even more devious, those were the vibes I was sending out to all. My bad! I had a lot of thinking to do and I had better get thinking fast, make a complete 360 turn and make myself the master of my own fate. I had better begin to live in the moment, stop thinking about past mistakes, hopefully I had learned from them and moved on in life. Not so much, so it seems. I perpetuated the view of myself as being not so smart, making poor choices and not knowing where I was heading or why. Further, I was worrying about the future when I hadn't dealt with the present. It doesn't work that way. So, what I've learned is that I need to kinder to myself and not reprimand me for not moving ahead fast enough, not doing enough, not knowing where to turn. It was up to me right this very moment to know what was bothering me or what it was that I needed and work on accomplishing and finessing the fine details, all the while feeling that this was to be, this was what I wanted and be positive about it in how I thought about myself. I have every right to be an artist if I choose to be. There is no cosmic law out there telling me that no, that's not for you, you really can't do that. Why not? Because I didn't believe in myself.
So, what changes have I made? I define myself as an artist, a mixed media artist. When I'm in the art supply store and another customer asks me if I'm an artist, I answer in the afirmative. Yes, I am an artist. YES, I AM an ARTIST. Sorry, didn't mean to yell, but I had to make my point. Turns out that while I have a lot to learn in technique, I do have direction in my art, I know and understand my weaknesses, I am working to be the person I want to be because I am that person. Wait a minute, I hear everyone out there thinking - she said she has a lot to learn so how can she be an artist? The same way a doctor is a doctor. Even though s/he has the initials M.D. after their name and has graduated from medical school in the top ten, doesn't mean that the learning stops there. A doctor is always updating his or her knowledge in order to keep up with new advances in medicine. But, that doesn't change the fact that the doctor is and will be a doctor. So, let's push this a little further - I am an artist and will always be working on my technique, trying new ones, pushing my limits, trying new mediums. The search for knowledge isn't an indicator that I am any less of an artist, it's an admission that I realize that in this moment, I still have a lot to learn and will always be in the process of learning.
Give this a little thought. Believe in yourself. Think about what it is that you want to change in your life and facilitate that change. I believe you can do it, but more importantly, do you believe you can?
These past few days I've been painting with a vengence. I'm tackling the canvases that have been giving me problems and starting to work on other pieces. I've been reading about colour theory, techniques and practising drawing images that appeal to me. I'm working on my fears and acquiring knowledge. I'd say it's been a positive week!
I've previously put up pictures of "Millenium" and "Losing My Religion" for you to see. I'm not finished with these pieces, but it's getting so close that I can feel how good it's going to be to hang these up on the wall and can say that I'm done. "Millenium" has a companion canvas at long last. "The 80's" shows images of that decade that stand out for me and for the couple who will have the two canvases. Images that define the two decades, both of which were important to each of us for various reasons.
The third canvas, " Losing My Religion" is becoming more and more significant to me with each brush stroke. This piece has me thinking, questioning old beliefs, wondering about what I had been taught as a student attending parochial school during my formative years. For so long, I had just accepted what I had been taught about religion, never stopping to ask myself if I had any doubts, fears or questions. You didn't question your faith, you accepted what you were taught in religious studies and could repeat back like little parrots what the teacher had put forth in that lesson. To question any of the concepts would have meant instant damnation or at very least a call from the school to your parents. Yes, I was a good little soldier and memorized my cathechism lessons with due diligence. It's only now, as I paint out the story, that I start to question openly what I had so obediently believed. Maybe this piece came to my mind as a painting that needed to be put to canvas because it's only now that I feel confident enough to actively question whether I truly believe or if there are some parts of the whole belief system that I need to rethink, digest or reject. These are my thoughts as I paint, they may upset you or cause you to question your own set of beliefs. That's a good thing. To close off a subject and never discuss it whether or not we all agree on a point of view would be closing doors of communication. Look at the painting and talk about it with your friends or even better, leave me a comment. Tell me what it is you like or don't like about the painting and why. How does this painting make you feel? Do you have a sense of unease as if fire and brimstone will come down on all of us or do you feel a sense of relief that someone else has questions about all this religious knowledge that we openly accepted and never dared to question? Let me know and I'll post all the comments and respond to what you have to say. I'm not saying I'm right, I'm saying I have some doubts and still need to decide. If and when the verdict comes in I'll let you know.
Meanwhile, I hope last week was one in which you found some peace of mind artistically. Hopefully, you thought about what you might like to try whether it's painting, writing a blog (yes, that's an art!), embroidery or reading a book on an art form that you've always wanted to try. Here's hoping that whatever you choose brings you the same internal comfort that I feel when I'm painting.
Have a great week and don't forget about our tiara challenge! I'm hoping to see some real divas and knights in action. Don't forget to come back to this blog once you've posted your avatar on Twitter and let me know your username, i.e. @rutheemac, so that I can keep an updated list of who we should all be looking for when we log into Twitter. I'd love to hear your comments about how you came to decorate your tiara the way you did. You can post your avatar pic with you wearing your tiara, your pet wearing your tiara or whatever catches your fancy. Be original and have some fun!
Sincerely, Rutheemac
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Card Tricks & Challenge!!
Happy Thursday everyone! You've made it past "hump day" and the weekend is within sight. It's a good feeling, right? You've been busy all week with your job, the laundry, running errands, taking care of the family and everything else that you can possibly crowd into your day. Now, what have you done for yourself? Did you find some quiet time to think about what form your creativity might take if you were to pursue some artistic delight? I'm hoping some of you have taken some time to think about this and hoping even more that you might have started a project just to test the waters.
One easy way to test your creativity is to make some greeting cards. Yes, I know there are stores that sell them and have lovely ones. But, do these store bought cards really express what you want to say? Are you really happy with the design of the card or did you grab one that seemed to be the best you could find and thought, "Well, no one really cares about the card, it just gets tossed away." You might be surprised at the number of people who keep the cards that are sent to them and go back and read them every time they need a reminder that someone took the time to say that they really cared. You didn't realize your card had that much meaning. You didn't know that beyond saying "Happy Birthday", that the card also said that you cared enough to think about the recipient and their special day. The power of that one card is amazing. It can turn a not so good day into a memorable one for a recipient who has just had a horrible day at work, had a flat tire on the way home, but once they got home and picked up the mail, there was a piece for them that had their name on it. It wasn't a bill, another promotion from the cable television company or a past due notice on a library book. It was a card, just for them and it said to them that this friend really cared enough to send it. Sure, you can send e-mail greetings and it's a nice way to remember someone or brighten their day. But a card that you send in the mail is something tangible, something that can be held, read over and over again and saved to look at again, maybe when feeling a little down. You didn't realize that you had that power to make someone's day with a simple little card, but you do and if you only knew that a handmade card would have even more significance, do you think that maybe you might be tempted to try making one?
It's really not that much different than writing a letter. Right, you haven't written a real letter in years. See, that's the problem. We've taken it for granted that no one cares to receive a card anymore. It's so old fashioned, e-mail is so much quicker. And you have to put more thought into what the card looks like and what it says. Ah, now we're getting to the heart of the matter. It takes more thought, consequently it means more to your friend who hasn't really celebrated a birthday in years, let alone receive a handmade card in the mail.
Okay, I've got your attention now, right? Go to an arts and crafts store, look at the cardstock on the shelves. Those packages that have four or five colours in them or even a package of ivory cardstock. That always looks elegant and you can add colours to it with markers, rubber stamps or just coloured gel pens. It really doesn't take much to get going on this project and I guarantee that once you receive a complement on a card you sent, you'll be hooked. You'll start looking for opportunities to send one of your cards. You're going to feel good about what you're doing and you're being creative at the same time. You're not thinking about the report at the office that needs to be done first thing Monday morning. You're relaxing, having fun and being creative.
So, pick out some cardstock, one package to start. Pick up some envelopes at the dollar store to go along with your cards. Maybe buy a couple of rubber stamps and ink pads to get started. Maybe a little ribbon to add as an accent or any one of the many little accessories that are filling the racks to go along with your card making. A basic tool kit should include a paper cutter, some extra blades for it, a glue stick or glue runner (a device like correction tape only it puts down a line of glue), scissors, a ruler, a cutting mat to protect your table and a box to keep all your scraps in along with one for your supplies. One of the first rules in card making is to never throw away your scraps. That little piece of gold trim might be just what you need on another card. It's always time and cost effective to make multiple cards rather than one at a time. You can cut enough cardstock for a dozen cards and it won't take you that much longer to make them than to make just one. The trick is to put the scraps from the first card into the second card and so on. That way there isn't any waste, you've got a stash of cards at your finger tips ready to send at any time that you want to.
If you are someone who can draw well, it's wonderful to use that talent to design the front of your card. Look at Liza Lambertini's web site. The URL is to the right of the blog under "Other sites you might find interesting." Liza's specialty is painting the most wonderful faeries onto the front of the card. She writes a poem to go along with this particular faerie telling you a little about them or the magic that they bring along. Liza then goes one step further to make her cards special. She takes the time to treat them as the piece of art that they surely are and places a matte behind the card so it can be framed. The card still opens for you to write your greeting inside and the poem is on the back of the card. Liza uses a collection of inks to hand craft each card and signs them with her name. I look at her cards and am amazed at how she captures the elegance of each faerie, the lush colours painted carefully to bring to life that little creature. Take the time to go to Liza's web site and see if you're as captivated by her work as I am.
My card making skills are no where near those of Liza's and the major card companies don't need to worry that I'm diving into their territory. I use rubber stamps, sometimes accented with little extras that I draw into the scene. I try to decorate the envelope so that it gives the recipient a little hint of what is to come. And yes, sometimes I can't avoid the temptation to use a little glitter or to put a little confetti into the card to come tumbling out as it's opened. I have as much fun making the cards as my recipients do receiving them. I've put a few of my newest creations up for you to see. One of my regulars that gets birthday, Hallowe'en and holiday cards told me that he has saved them all so that he has a collection of Rutheemac cards. He's actually the person who gave me the name Rutheemac. And so for the past 10 years, I've been Rutheemac, spelled in many different ways, but what you see is my preferred moniker and spelling.
So, please, if you feel that you aren't creative, give this a try and see if it doesn't get your imagination running wild with what you can make. What you will be making are special memories for each and every person that receives one of your cards. And, if you're up for it, this is a great family project. Get all the family involved in making your holiday cards this year. I guarantee that you and your family will find this to be one of the best parts of the upcoming season.
Wishing you a wonderfully artistic week, one full of inspiration and the determination to make time for some memories.
Sincerely, Rutheemac
*************************************************************************************
Okay, Hallowe'en is coming and we need to have a little fun! So, we're all going to be divas and decorate a tiara and use it as our avatar next weekend, Saturday, October 30 and Sunday, October 31. My gentlemen readers are encouraged to enter into the fun as well! Instead of being a diva, I will consider you to be knighted for the weekend. That doesn't mean you get a free ride on the household duties! LOL So, post your avatar and then leave a comment on this site telling me what you twitter name is i.e. @rutheemac, so that all of us can have a look at your tiara. You are welcome to have a picture of you wearing the tiara or a picture of just your tiara is fine too. While you're here leaving me a comment about your tiara, sign on as a reader of this blog. It's encouraging to me and to others to see a list of names of people who enjoy the blog. Right now, I can tell you that most of the people viewing the blog are from Canada, followed by the U.S., then the U.K. and last but not least, there are a few readers in South Africa. Leave a comment and tell me and the other readers a bit about yourself and what kind of art you do. One last word on the tiaras - please leave your comment and have your avatar up for early Saturday, October 30 so that I can log in throughout the day and put up the comments so we know what user name to look for to see their tiara. Good luck and let's see some real creativity!
*************************************************************************************
One easy way to test your creativity is to make some greeting cards. Yes, I know there are stores that sell them and have lovely ones. But, do these store bought cards really express what you want to say? Are you really happy with the design of the card or did you grab one that seemed to be the best you could find and thought, "Well, no one really cares about the card, it just gets tossed away." You might be surprised at the number of people who keep the cards that are sent to them and go back and read them every time they need a reminder that someone took the time to say that they really cared. You didn't realize your card had that much meaning. You didn't know that beyond saying "Happy Birthday", that the card also said that you cared enough to think about the recipient and their special day. The power of that one card is amazing. It can turn a not so good day into a memorable one for a recipient who has just had a horrible day at work, had a flat tire on the way home, but once they got home and picked up the mail, there was a piece for them that had their name on it. It wasn't a bill, another promotion from the cable television company or a past due notice on a library book. It was a card, just for them and it said to them that this friend really cared enough to send it. Sure, you can send e-mail greetings and it's a nice way to remember someone or brighten their day. But a card that you send in the mail is something tangible, something that can be held, read over and over again and saved to look at again, maybe when feeling a little down. You didn't realize that you had that power to make someone's day with a simple little card, but you do and if you only knew that a handmade card would have even more significance, do you think that maybe you might be tempted to try making one?
It's really not that much different than writing a letter. Right, you haven't written a real letter in years. See, that's the problem. We've taken it for granted that no one cares to receive a card anymore. It's so old fashioned, e-mail is so much quicker. And you have to put more thought into what the card looks like and what it says. Ah, now we're getting to the heart of the matter. It takes more thought, consequently it means more to your friend who hasn't really celebrated a birthday in years, let alone receive a handmade card in the mail.
Okay, I've got your attention now, right? Go to an arts and crafts store, look at the cardstock on the shelves. Those packages that have four or five colours in them or even a package of ivory cardstock. That always looks elegant and you can add colours to it with markers, rubber stamps or just coloured gel pens. It really doesn't take much to get going on this project and I guarantee that once you receive a complement on a card you sent, you'll be hooked. You'll start looking for opportunities to send one of your cards. You're going to feel good about what you're doing and you're being creative at the same time. You're not thinking about the report at the office that needs to be done first thing Monday morning. You're relaxing, having fun and being creative.
So, pick out some cardstock, one package to start. Pick up some envelopes at the dollar store to go along with your cards. Maybe buy a couple of rubber stamps and ink pads to get started. Maybe a little ribbon to add as an accent or any one of the many little accessories that are filling the racks to go along with your card making. A basic tool kit should include a paper cutter, some extra blades for it, a glue stick or glue runner (a device like correction tape only it puts down a line of glue), scissors, a ruler, a cutting mat to protect your table and a box to keep all your scraps in along with one for your supplies. One of the first rules in card making is to never throw away your scraps. That little piece of gold trim might be just what you need on another card. It's always time and cost effective to make multiple cards rather than one at a time. You can cut enough cardstock for a dozen cards and it won't take you that much longer to make them than to make just one. The trick is to put the scraps from the first card into the second card and so on. That way there isn't any waste, you've got a stash of cards at your finger tips ready to send at any time that you want to.
If you are someone who can draw well, it's wonderful to use that talent to design the front of your card. Look at Liza Lambertini's web site. The URL is to the right of the blog under "Other sites you might find interesting." Liza's specialty is painting the most wonderful faeries onto the front of the card. She writes a poem to go along with this particular faerie telling you a little about them or the magic that they bring along. Liza then goes one step further to make her cards special. She takes the time to treat them as the piece of art that they surely are and places a matte behind the card so it can be framed. The card still opens for you to write your greeting inside and the poem is on the back of the card. Liza uses a collection of inks to hand craft each card and signs them with her name. I look at her cards and am amazed at how she captures the elegance of each faerie, the lush colours painted carefully to bring to life that little creature. Take the time to go to Liza's web site and see if you're as captivated by her work as I am.
My card making skills are no where near those of Liza's and the major card companies don't need to worry that I'm diving into their territory. I use rubber stamps, sometimes accented with little extras that I draw into the scene. I try to decorate the envelope so that it gives the recipient a little hint of what is to come. And yes, sometimes I can't avoid the temptation to use a little glitter or to put a little confetti into the card to come tumbling out as it's opened. I have as much fun making the cards as my recipients do receiving them. I've put a few of my newest creations up for you to see. One of my regulars that gets birthday, Hallowe'en and holiday cards told me that he has saved them all so that he has a collection of Rutheemac cards. He's actually the person who gave me the name Rutheemac. And so for the past 10 years, I've been Rutheemac, spelled in many different ways, but what you see is my preferred moniker and spelling.
So, please, if you feel that you aren't creative, give this a try and see if it doesn't get your imagination running wild with what you can make. What you will be making are special memories for each and every person that receives one of your cards. And, if you're up for it, this is a great family project. Get all the family involved in making your holiday cards this year. I guarantee that you and your family will find this to be one of the best parts of the upcoming season.
Wishing you a wonderfully artistic week, one full of inspiration and the determination to make time for some memories.
Sincerely, Rutheemac
*************************************************************************************
Okay, Hallowe'en is coming and we need to have a little fun! So, we're all going to be divas and decorate a tiara and use it as our avatar next weekend, Saturday, October 30 and Sunday, October 31. My gentlemen readers are encouraged to enter into the fun as well! Instead of being a diva, I will consider you to be knighted for the weekend. That doesn't mean you get a free ride on the household duties! LOL So, post your avatar and then leave a comment on this site telling me what you twitter name is i.e. @rutheemac, so that all of us can have a look at your tiara. You are welcome to have a picture of you wearing the tiara or a picture of just your tiara is fine too. While you're here leaving me a comment about your tiara, sign on as a reader of this blog. It's encouraging to me and to others to see a list of names of people who enjoy the blog. Right now, I can tell you that most of the people viewing the blog are from Canada, followed by the U.S., then the U.K. and last but not least, there are a few readers in South Africa. Leave a comment and tell me and the other readers a bit about yourself and what kind of art you do. One last word on the tiaras - please leave your comment and have your avatar up for early Saturday, October 30 so that I can log in throughout the day and put up the comments so we know what user name to look for to see their tiara. Good luck and let's see some real creativity!
*************************************************************************************
Monday, October 18, 2010
The Journey Continues
I was thinking these past few days that I need to pursue and try some other methods of artistic expression in order to pass my thoughts on to you. My primary focus has and will be on acrylic painting because it's the one that I pursue the most. But, I'm open to other ideas and did try my hand at a few things this week.
One of my friends from Twitter, Kim (@WSDreams) makes the most amazing pillow sachets, eye masks and other items all scented with different scents that she puts together. She even has a specialist come in to smell the scent that she has put together. I find this amazing. I didn't realize putting a scent together was so complex and how much work is involved. Check out Kim's site to see the amazing ideas she has to scent your home. She has an etsy shop and the URL is listed under sites you might enjoy visiting. I know I love to look at her site and the way that she describes some of her fragrances is such that I can imagine just how the fragrance would smell.
So, I decided to make a batch of sachets as little holiday gifts. Mine are not as elaborate as Kim's, but they make a cute addition to a little basket of home made goodies that I will be giving out this year. I've decided that for the most part, that this year I want to give handmade or hand decorated gifts. It shows that I've put a little more thought into what I'm giving and it's a little easier on the pocket book. I bought little organza bags at a craft shop. These are white, but there were many other colours available. A friend picked up a bag of lavender for me when he was at a trade show. I was surprised at how far a one pound bag of lavender would go. I emptied the lavender into a plastic container and sprinkled some lavender oil on top of it to make the scent more pronounced, put the lid back on the container, gave it a shake to distribute the oil through the lavender and then let the batch sit for a few days. While it was "steeping" I made up some labels to tie to each little bag and got a piece of yarn ready to tie off the bag. There is a little ornament tied to each end of the yarn. I packaged up the lavender and have a picture of a few of my bags to show you how they turned out. I'm planning to give these to the female friends along with either a wooden ornament or a folio of assorted greeting cards. I'll show you those in a later post. Hope you like my little sachets! They are about 3 inches by 2 inches, just a nice size to tuck in someone's coat pocket or purse when they aren't looking.
My artistic week also involved painting some of the wooden ornaments and making some holiday cards. But my first and foremost love is painting, so I've taken pictures of the canvas after the background was coloured in. I sponged in a mid tone of green, a touch of alizarian crimson hue, and just the tiniest amount of gold. Since I like to do a series of paintings, I painted three canvases in total so that the background would be consistent in each. The second painting is how the canvas looked when I blocked in the main elements that would be seen. I have put in the branches of a tree with leaves on it that would be coloured in later as autumn leaves. The third picture is the painting as it is now. It is not finished yet, I'd like to play with it a bit more and add more colour variation in the leaves. Autumn leaves are complex, the gradation of colour, the texture, the essence of fall still needs to be added so what I have to show you in the third phote of this little experiment is about 75% done. Another few hours tomorrow and I'll have a finished product. Then I can start to think about what to do with the other two canvases. I'm thinking the series will be titled "Autumn Splendour" with each canvas a variation on the theme.
So, what am I planning for my next little adventure? Well, I'm thinking of some really nice holiday cards that you are more than welcome to copy for your use this year. I have such a number of holiday stamps, that I can make quite a nice assortment. But, I also want to make some more elegant cards for special people, maybe those that I don't see very often, but get an e-mail or even better, a handwritten letter from every so often. Does anyone else get a tingle up their spine when they see an envelope in their mailbox and you see the return address is that of someone special in your life? I know I do. Those are the cards and letters that I put in a pretty box and look at again and again. So, I'll try to get some of these special cards made to show you what I'm up to.
I know I'll paint this week, that's a given. But, I'll also read a book or two on drawing. I have to confess, my drawing skills are weak and I'd really like to improve them. But, my field of interest in subject matter for my drawing might surprise you. Flowers are nice, landscapes don't really interest me, and portraits just are not up my alley. I love to draw imaginary creatures. Do I hear gasps of horror or shrieks of laughter? I confess that dragons, gargoyles, faeries and all the other interesting imaginary folk have captured my heart. I guess that I'm still young at heart or maybe I just need to see a little more of imaginary beings because you can do so much with them in an art project. Anyway, "Draw and Paint The Realm of Faerie" by Ed Org and "Fantasy Drawing Workshop" by John Howe are on my bedside table along with a sketch pad. Both books are from Impact Press and are readily available at Amazon online and I would think that any good art supply store might carry them as well. The store that I get my supplies from has had both of these titles on their shelves recently.
So, that's how my week wrapped up! Sorry that this post is going up so late, my fault entirely. I tend to get things done early and then get involved with something else. I've already started work for Thursday's post, so that one should be online nice and early. Unless the computer and camera have another spat. Those two are more tempermental than any two year old I've seen lately. But, I think they've decided to cooperate as the pictures scanned into the computer nicely for this time. Heaven only knows about the next time.
Hope you had time to play with some artistic items and find your inner artist. Take that time for yourself. Not only do you deserve that time, but you need it to recharge your batteries and find that zest for life.
Wishing you a week of fun, excitement and the pursuit of something related to art!
Sincerely,
Rutheemac
One of my friends from Twitter, Kim (@WSDreams) makes the most amazing pillow sachets, eye masks and other items all scented with different scents that she puts together. She even has a specialist come in to smell the scent that she has put together. I find this amazing. I didn't realize putting a scent together was so complex and how much work is involved. Check out Kim's site to see the amazing ideas she has to scent your home. She has an etsy shop and the URL is listed under sites you might enjoy visiting. I know I love to look at her site and the way that she describes some of her fragrances is such that I can imagine just how the fragrance would smell.
So, I decided to make a batch of sachets as little holiday gifts. Mine are not as elaborate as Kim's, but they make a cute addition to a little basket of home made goodies that I will be giving out this year. I've decided that for the most part, that this year I want to give handmade or hand decorated gifts. It shows that I've put a little more thought into what I'm giving and it's a little easier on the pocket book. I bought little organza bags at a craft shop. These are white, but there were many other colours available. A friend picked up a bag of lavender for me when he was at a trade show. I was surprised at how far a one pound bag of lavender would go. I emptied the lavender into a plastic container and sprinkled some lavender oil on top of it to make the scent more pronounced, put the lid back on the container, gave it a shake to distribute the oil through the lavender and then let the batch sit for a few days. While it was "steeping" I made up some labels to tie to each little bag and got a piece of yarn ready to tie off the bag. There is a little ornament tied to each end of the yarn. I packaged up the lavender and have a picture of a few of my bags to show you how they turned out. I'm planning to give these to the female friends along with either a wooden ornament or a folio of assorted greeting cards. I'll show you those in a later post. Hope you like my little sachets! They are about 3 inches by 2 inches, just a nice size to tuck in someone's coat pocket or purse when they aren't looking.
My artistic week also involved painting some of the wooden ornaments and making some holiday cards. But my first and foremost love is painting, so I've taken pictures of the canvas after the background was coloured in. I sponged in a mid tone of green, a touch of alizarian crimson hue, and just the tiniest amount of gold. Since I like to do a series of paintings, I painted three canvases in total so that the background would be consistent in each. The second painting is how the canvas looked when I blocked in the main elements that would be seen. I have put in the branches of a tree with leaves on it that would be coloured in later as autumn leaves. The third picture is the painting as it is now. It is not finished yet, I'd like to play with it a bit more and add more colour variation in the leaves. Autumn leaves are complex, the gradation of colour, the texture, the essence of fall still needs to be added so what I have to show you in the third phote of this little experiment is about 75% done. Another few hours tomorrow and I'll have a finished product. Then I can start to think about what to do with the other two canvases. I'm thinking the series will be titled "Autumn Splendour" with each canvas a variation on the theme.
So, what am I planning for my next little adventure? Well, I'm thinking of some really nice holiday cards that you are more than welcome to copy for your use this year. I have such a number of holiday stamps, that I can make quite a nice assortment. But, I also want to make some more elegant cards for special people, maybe those that I don't see very often, but get an e-mail or even better, a handwritten letter from every so often. Does anyone else get a tingle up their spine when they see an envelope in their mailbox and you see the return address is that of someone special in your life? I know I do. Those are the cards and letters that I put in a pretty box and look at again and again. So, I'll try to get some of these special cards made to show you what I'm up to.
I know I'll paint this week, that's a given. But, I'll also read a book or two on drawing. I have to confess, my drawing skills are weak and I'd really like to improve them. But, my field of interest in subject matter for my drawing might surprise you. Flowers are nice, landscapes don't really interest me, and portraits just are not up my alley. I love to draw imaginary creatures. Do I hear gasps of horror or shrieks of laughter? I confess that dragons, gargoyles, faeries and all the other interesting imaginary folk have captured my heart. I guess that I'm still young at heart or maybe I just need to see a little more of imaginary beings because you can do so much with them in an art project. Anyway, "Draw and Paint The Realm of Faerie" by Ed Org and "Fantasy Drawing Workshop" by John Howe are on my bedside table along with a sketch pad. Both books are from Impact Press and are readily available at Amazon online and I would think that any good art supply store might carry them as well. The store that I get my supplies from has had both of these titles on their shelves recently.
So, that's how my week wrapped up! Sorry that this post is going up so late, my fault entirely. I tend to get things done early and then get involved with something else. I've already started work for Thursday's post, so that one should be online nice and early. Unless the computer and camera have another spat. Those two are more tempermental than any two year old I've seen lately. But, I think they've decided to cooperate as the pictures scanned into the computer nicely for this time. Heaven only knows about the next time.
Hope you had time to play with some artistic items and find your inner artist. Take that time for yourself. Not only do you deserve that time, but you need it to recharge your batteries and find that zest for life.
Wishing you a week of fun, excitement and the pursuit of something related to art!
Sincerely,
Rutheemac
Friday, October 15, 2010
Quick Correction Regarding Comments
Just saw where I gave you some wrong information on leaving comments. In order to leave a comment, click on the word "comments" at the end of the blog and a text box will open up for you to type in. You can preview what you have written and then click on "submit." At this time you will have to type in some letters that appear on your screen in order for your comment to be submitted. This is to prevent automated devices from commenting. Last thing I need is a "bot" leaving some embarrassing comment. The good news is that I have to approve a comment before it will be posted. All comments, good or bad will be posted. What I am looking for is inappropriate language that should not be used. This blog is for genuinely interested people who may have an interest in pursuing painting or any other medium as a hobby. I really do care what people think about the blogs and hope to see some people write in for information on a particular hobby, craft, material used, etc. I will be most happy to reply to these and other comments and perhaps see a common thread that could turn into the next blog.
Thank you for reading this! I am totally new to blogging and I promise to learn as I go.
Have fun creating!
Rutheemac
Thank you for reading this! I am totally new to blogging and I promise to learn as I go.
Have fun creating!
Rutheemac
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Creativity Flourishes Everywhere
So, here we are in the middle of another week. What have you done to further your interest in creating art over the past few days? I hear the sighs and the mental comments of "Who is she kidding, not everyone is artistic." Or, "There's no point, I couldn't create anything if I tried. The last time I painted anything was the bedroom last year." Fair enough, but what I'm hearing is that maybe you just don't feel that you have what it takes to make something that would be considered art." My response is that you need to think about what you do every day and look to find the many ways in which you are creative.
Did you have a celebration over the weekend and prepared a special meal? So, let's see, you would have planned a menu deciding on what dishes would go well together to give a balance of texture, colour and flavour. Sounds like creativity in progress there. Then you would have decided on what linens to use on the table, which set of china would look the best and then selected some flowers from your garden or the florist and made a lovely display in the center of the table. You accented all this with a collection of candle holders and candles that wove their way through the flowers and other table ornaments. Again, very creative, especially given that you're already cooking the meal, tidying up the house and chasing the dog out of the kitchen.
If you went to a formal party or dinner over the weekend, did anyone help you select the perfect outfit to wear? No, you went into your wardrobe, picked out that special little black number that makes you look amazing and feel on top of the world. You accessorized with the perfect shoes and handbag, then found just the right piece of jewelry to complement the neckline on your dress. Add to that the time you spent doing your hair and applying make up to your face in such a manner that Monet would have envied your use of colour that made you glow from inside and out. Pretty artistic and creative in my books.
We have make up artists, hair stylists, fashion designers and all these people who we consider to be artistic. Why then do we not recognize that we do a lot of the very same tasks on a daily basis, but not recognize the creativity in ourselves? No one has to paint like one of the masters, cook like Julia Child or set a table like Martha Stewart. You use your own creative instincts in all these areas and end up with a wonderful warm atmosphere in your home that you take pride in, but don't take the kudos for being artistic. Just doesn't make sense when you think about it.
What I'm saying is that you don't need to devote countless hours to some type of art or craft. Use the time that you can, but do make a point of setting aside some "me time" that you use to pursue your interests. Follow up on your dream to dabble in acrylics or try scrapbooking. Using rubber stamps to make your on holiday cards would be a great project to start off with. With some cardstock, a few colours in inked stamp pads and a modest selection of stamps, you can create any number of designs to call your own. Take pride in these creations and make sure you sign your name on the back of the cards. You'll be pleasantly surprised at how much people enjoy these small pieces of art. As a bonus, you will likely make a new circle of friends who share your interest. Don't be afraid to chat with other shoppers in an art supply store. Everyone is eager to share their tips and suggestions and the next thing you know, you'll be attending a stamp night at someone's home or at a store putting on a promotion. I'm just saying that once you get involved in some form of art, new opportunities will come your way and you'll enrich your life in so many ways plus learn how to create some special new artwork.
I felt like I didn't have any artistic bones in my body despite the fact that I was a floral designer for 25 years. Wedding bouquets were put together, flowers arranged for birthdays and anniversaries, and in one case, I made a pig fly through a celebratory luau. Amazing what you can do with a plastic piggy bank and some balloons tied around that rotund little belly. But, it looked cute, set the tone for the events of the evening and from what I heard, was the hit of the evening. But, no, I'm not creative. Luckily, I have a big sister who wisely advised me to look at trying some painting as a hobby to keep my mind off of the work day. And so, I started making greeting cards, moved on to painting on canvas, got involved with rubber stamping and on and on. A trip to the art supply store was like letting a kid loose a candy store, such was the temptation.
Oh, I had it big time and now taking time to paint or do something creative is necessary for me each and every day. Two years ago I had to give up working due to health issues and if I hadn't cultivated an interest in art, I don't know what I would do with my time. While I can't paint or do something artistic for prolonged periods of time, I do put in an hour here and there throughout my day and balance it with periods of rest, extra sleep and staying off of my feet. Since my hands are also affected, I have to be careful not to try to do too much or I'll pay for it in the long run.
Now you know how I came to this juncture in the pathway of life. I plan to share with you my travels into different types of artwork or crafting. I'll share with you what I learn, what worked, what didn't and hopefully why. I have a digital camera now and once I get the hang of it, I'll put up pics of some of my artwork and what I've been working on. I'd love to hear your opinions as well as any questions that you might have. At the bottom of each blog there is an area for comments and it has been set up so anyone can make a comment and remain anonymous. My site does not record e-mail addresses, so you are totally safe in leaving a comment, good or bad. My only caveat is that if you really don't like a blog or a picture, that you say what it was that you didn't like and why. Constructive comments are positive and allow all of us to grow, including myself. I am not presenting myself as an experienced artist, but rather an artist in the making with a lot to learn.
Your challenge now is to think about all the things you do and see where creativity or artistry fits into the equation. Then, go to the comment form and share your ideas, what you did, how it made you feel and where you want to go with it. I'd also love to hear from some seasoned artists with their comments, maybe some to encourage us newbies to keep doing what we're doing and maybe include some tips, suggestions of books that might be of interest and so on.
I plan to post a little more often for the first while to try and capture as many people's interest as possible and gather a group of regular readers. Join as a follower to show your support which will only encourage more and more people to read this blog and join us on our journey. Pack lightly, only bring along your imagination, a sketchbook and a few pencils. Art is a forgiving adventure, just get the major ideas down in your sketchbook or journal and fill in the rest later. The main thing is as in any adventure, you have to take that first step. Are you willing to take a leap of faith and follow me? I'm counting on it!
Wishing you a week filled with inspiration, a pencil nearby when you need it and a sketchbook that holds the promise of adventures to come.
Sincerely,
Rutheemac
Did you have a celebration over the weekend and prepared a special meal? So, let's see, you would have planned a menu deciding on what dishes would go well together to give a balance of texture, colour and flavour. Sounds like creativity in progress there. Then you would have decided on what linens to use on the table, which set of china would look the best and then selected some flowers from your garden or the florist and made a lovely display in the center of the table. You accented all this with a collection of candle holders and candles that wove their way through the flowers and other table ornaments. Again, very creative, especially given that you're already cooking the meal, tidying up the house and chasing the dog out of the kitchen.
If you went to a formal party or dinner over the weekend, did anyone help you select the perfect outfit to wear? No, you went into your wardrobe, picked out that special little black number that makes you look amazing and feel on top of the world. You accessorized with the perfect shoes and handbag, then found just the right piece of jewelry to complement the neckline on your dress. Add to that the time you spent doing your hair and applying make up to your face in such a manner that Monet would have envied your use of colour that made you glow from inside and out. Pretty artistic and creative in my books.
We have make up artists, hair stylists, fashion designers and all these people who we consider to be artistic. Why then do we not recognize that we do a lot of the very same tasks on a daily basis, but not recognize the creativity in ourselves? No one has to paint like one of the masters, cook like Julia Child or set a table like Martha Stewart. You use your own creative instincts in all these areas and end up with a wonderful warm atmosphere in your home that you take pride in, but don't take the kudos for being artistic. Just doesn't make sense when you think about it.
What I'm saying is that you don't need to devote countless hours to some type of art or craft. Use the time that you can, but do make a point of setting aside some "me time" that you use to pursue your interests. Follow up on your dream to dabble in acrylics or try scrapbooking. Using rubber stamps to make your on holiday cards would be a great project to start off with. With some cardstock, a few colours in inked stamp pads and a modest selection of stamps, you can create any number of designs to call your own. Take pride in these creations and make sure you sign your name on the back of the cards. You'll be pleasantly surprised at how much people enjoy these small pieces of art. As a bonus, you will likely make a new circle of friends who share your interest. Don't be afraid to chat with other shoppers in an art supply store. Everyone is eager to share their tips and suggestions and the next thing you know, you'll be attending a stamp night at someone's home or at a store putting on a promotion. I'm just saying that once you get involved in some form of art, new opportunities will come your way and you'll enrich your life in so many ways plus learn how to create some special new artwork.
I felt like I didn't have any artistic bones in my body despite the fact that I was a floral designer for 25 years. Wedding bouquets were put together, flowers arranged for birthdays and anniversaries, and in one case, I made a pig fly through a celebratory luau. Amazing what you can do with a plastic piggy bank and some balloons tied around that rotund little belly. But, it looked cute, set the tone for the events of the evening and from what I heard, was the hit of the evening. But, no, I'm not creative. Luckily, I have a big sister who wisely advised me to look at trying some painting as a hobby to keep my mind off of the work day. And so, I started making greeting cards, moved on to painting on canvas, got involved with rubber stamping and on and on. A trip to the art supply store was like letting a kid loose a candy store, such was the temptation.
Oh, I had it big time and now taking time to paint or do something creative is necessary for me each and every day. Two years ago I had to give up working due to health issues and if I hadn't cultivated an interest in art, I don't know what I would do with my time. While I can't paint or do something artistic for prolonged periods of time, I do put in an hour here and there throughout my day and balance it with periods of rest, extra sleep and staying off of my feet. Since my hands are also affected, I have to be careful not to try to do too much or I'll pay for it in the long run.
Now you know how I came to this juncture in the pathway of life. I plan to share with you my travels into different types of artwork or crafting. I'll share with you what I learn, what worked, what didn't and hopefully why. I have a digital camera now and once I get the hang of it, I'll put up pics of some of my artwork and what I've been working on. I'd love to hear your opinions as well as any questions that you might have. At the bottom of each blog there is an area for comments and it has been set up so anyone can make a comment and remain anonymous. My site does not record e-mail addresses, so you are totally safe in leaving a comment, good or bad. My only caveat is that if you really don't like a blog or a picture, that you say what it was that you didn't like and why. Constructive comments are positive and allow all of us to grow, including myself. I am not presenting myself as an experienced artist, but rather an artist in the making with a lot to learn.
Your challenge now is to think about all the things you do and see where creativity or artistry fits into the equation. Then, go to the comment form and share your ideas, what you did, how it made you feel and where you want to go with it. I'd also love to hear from some seasoned artists with their comments, maybe some to encourage us newbies to keep doing what we're doing and maybe include some tips, suggestions of books that might be of interest and so on.
I plan to post a little more often for the first while to try and capture as many people's interest as possible and gather a group of regular readers. Join as a follower to show your support which will only encourage more and more people to read this blog and join us on our journey. Pack lightly, only bring along your imagination, a sketchbook and a few pencils. Art is a forgiving adventure, just get the major ideas down in your sketchbook or journal and fill in the rest later. The main thing is as in any adventure, you have to take that first step. Are you willing to take a leap of faith and follow me? I'm counting on it!
Wishing you a week filled with inspiration, a pencil nearby when you need it and a sketchbook that holds the promise of adventures to come.
Sincerely,
Rutheemac
Sunday, October 10, 2010
My First Blog!
I'm excited! This is the first of many steps I'm taking to realize my dream of becoming a recognized artist. After dabbling in art forms over the past two years, I've found that I love to paint with acrylics, I'm drawn to try mixed media pieces, and I am addicted totally and completely to creating something that while it pleases me, I want it to draw a reaction, a feeling, an emotion from the viewer.
At present, I don't have a digital camera, but I'm working on that. I'm using a computer that is over 8 years old and I'm praying that it hangs in until I can purchase one with a lot more RAM and maybe some of the newer programs available for me to try in my endeavours to learn more about digital art as well as the art I create at my kitchen table or in my bedroom which has been converted to a combination of an art studio and a bedroom to a minor degree. There's a bed and a dresser, but little else to make one think of a lush and inviting place to sleep. Sleep isn't my priority, art is and will be for many years to come.
Along with painting, I enjoy stamping, making journals, bookmarks and all sorts of creative things that I hope others will enjoy as these often become a birthday, holiday or a just because it's today gift. With the December holidays just around the corner, I'm already in the midst of making holiday cards, wooden ornaments, lavender sachets amongst other things. Yes, there will be baking done as well! Couldn't forget two importent men in my life, the two Chrises, one who lives to sample brownies and the other who enjoys anything that has condensed milk in it and is cut into large calorie laden squares. I'm sure I'll find some other creative things to do as well and I'll be sure to report back to my friends, who I hope will follow this blog, on how my projects turn out, what problems I encountered and any other notes of interest.
At present, I'm working on three paintings, all acrylics. Two are companion pieces that will find a home with my boys. One piece relates back to icons of the 80's, a decade of importance to the lads since this was the time of their formative years. The second piece relates to the new millenium, a time when I met my friends and the collection of illustrations in it will bring back memories of events that took place in these last ten years. But, there is one piece that is the connecting part to the two canvases. A map of Africa is center and up front in both pieces. If you recall, back in the 80's, Live Aid was an event held on two continents to raise both awareness and funds to support work being done in Africa. Even now, in the "new millenium", work still is being done and urgently needs to continue, hence the representation in both pieces of art. Is it a sad commentary that despite the number of years gone by, that major help is still needed to bring this country the help it so badly needs? Yes, it is. Once these pieces are done, I'll post pictures of them for you to see and comment on. I've tried to keep the pieces light hearted, these are pieces I hope will hang in a place of honour in the Chrises' home, and I really don't want to make these artistic journeys into downers. I want to celebrate art, but yet quietly bring to the foreground the statement that "the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The third canvas is one that is both a labour of love, but still has elements of sadness, discord, and imbalance R.E.M. recorded a song, Losing My Religion some years ago. That song always captured my attention whenever I heard it and it has made me think about my ideas of religion, how they have impacted my life over the years and even now cause me to second guess my beliefs, morals, pretty much everything that I just took for granted for so many years. I hope once it's finished, that I'll be able to post it and get some commentary from everyone. It may cause some people to feel uncomfortable, maybe even stir up some controversy, but that's all good. For, isn't it the purpose of art to bring us all together to discuss what is depicted on the canvas and maybe generate a debate or two? I hope so!
I also hope to carry you along with me on my journey to discover what I learn as I try new techniques and challenges. It's going to be a winding journey that takes you all over the map and through some scary places (not too scary!), but I hope you'll come along with me and discover that you too would like to start a journey of your own. Maybe it won't be in art, but those taking any type of journey that gives you the potential to learn and grow, is a worthy one. Let me know about your journey and how it has changed you. I'll share my thoughts on my journey and where it has taken me and we can swap psychic battle wounds.
Okay, this was a difficult first post for a newbie. First, I'm not one who likes to be too open about myself. I'm the one who stands back and listens quietly, hoping all the while to remain invisible. Well, I've taken that first step out of the cocoon and I'm ready to carefully make my way and share my thoughts, worries and hopes with you. We're going to have a great time here, I can pretty much guarantee that!
Wishing you all happiness, health and the strength to stretch your capabilities and try something new!
Sincerely, Rutheemac
At present, I don't have a digital camera, but I'm working on that. I'm using a computer that is over 8 years old and I'm praying that it hangs in until I can purchase one with a lot more RAM and maybe some of the newer programs available for me to try in my endeavours to learn more about digital art as well as the art I create at my kitchen table or in my bedroom which has been converted to a combination of an art studio and a bedroom to a minor degree. There's a bed and a dresser, but little else to make one think of a lush and inviting place to sleep. Sleep isn't my priority, art is and will be for many years to come.
Along with painting, I enjoy stamping, making journals, bookmarks and all sorts of creative things that I hope others will enjoy as these often become a birthday, holiday or a just because it's today gift. With the December holidays just around the corner, I'm already in the midst of making holiday cards, wooden ornaments, lavender sachets amongst other things. Yes, there will be baking done as well! Couldn't forget two importent men in my life, the two Chrises, one who lives to sample brownies and the other who enjoys anything that has condensed milk in it and is cut into large calorie laden squares. I'm sure I'll find some other creative things to do as well and I'll be sure to report back to my friends, who I hope will follow this blog, on how my projects turn out, what problems I encountered and any other notes of interest.
At present, I'm working on three paintings, all acrylics. Two are companion pieces that will find a home with my boys. One piece relates back to icons of the 80's, a decade of importance to the lads since this was the time of their formative years. The second piece relates to the new millenium, a time when I met my friends and the collection of illustrations in it will bring back memories of events that took place in these last ten years. But, there is one piece that is the connecting part to the two canvases. A map of Africa is center and up front in both pieces. If you recall, back in the 80's, Live Aid was an event held on two continents to raise both awareness and funds to support work being done in Africa. Even now, in the "new millenium", work still is being done and urgently needs to continue, hence the representation in both pieces of art. Is it a sad commentary that despite the number of years gone by, that major help is still needed to bring this country the help it so badly needs? Yes, it is. Once these pieces are done, I'll post pictures of them for you to see and comment on. I've tried to keep the pieces light hearted, these are pieces I hope will hang in a place of honour in the Chrises' home, and I really don't want to make these artistic journeys into downers. I want to celebrate art, but yet quietly bring to the foreground the statement that "the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The third canvas is one that is both a labour of love, but still has elements of sadness, discord, and imbalance R.E.M. recorded a song, Losing My Religion some years ago. That song always captured my attention whenever I heard it and it has made me think about my ideas of religion, how they have impacted my life over the years and even now cause me to second guess my beliefs, morals, pretty much everything that I just took for granted for so many years. I hope once it's finished, that I'll be able to post it and get some commentary from everyone. It may cause some people to feel uncomfortable, maybe even stir up some controversy, but that's all good. For, isn't it the purpose of art to bring us all together to discuss what is depicted on the canvas and maybe generate a debate or two? I hope so!
I also hope to carry you along with me on my journey to discover what I learn as I try new techniques and challenges. It's going to be a winding journey that takes you all over the map and through some scary places (not too scary!), but I hope you'll come along with me and discover that you too would like to start a journey of your own. Maybe it won't be in art, but those taking any type of journey that gives you the potential to learn and grow, is a worthy one. Let me know about your journey and how it has changed you. I'll share my thoughts on my journey and where it has taken me and we can swap psychic battle wounds.
Okay, this was a difficult first post for a newbie. First, I'm not one who likes to be too open about myself. I'm the one who stands back and listens quietly, hoping all the while to remain invisible. Well, I've taken that first step out of the cocoon and I'm ready to carefully make my way and share my thoughts, worries and hopes with you. We're going to have a great time here, I can pretty much guarantee that!
Wishing you all happiness, health and the strength to stretch your capabilities and try something new!
Sincerely, Rutheemac
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