Sirens Idyll

The Radiant Child

2012-01-10T01:11:00.003-05:00

"I don't think about art when I'm working. I try to think about life." - Jean-Michel Basquiat

"EARLY MOSES" - 1983

I am convinced were he alive, Jean-Michel Basquiat would have been enamored with the sudden surge of people creating art in their journals. Truly ahead of his time Jean-Michel combined words, color and bold imagery that hinted at a deeper meaning. Something to scratch at until it bled. In the movie, "Basquiat" there is a scene where he approaches Andy Warhol in a restaurant and asks him if he would like to by some, "ignorant" art. When questioned, he responded, (link) "you know, like stupid, like ridiculous crummy art." This made me laugh as on the surface it seems self-effacing but if you think about it, how freeing is it to already say to yourself, "I'm going to create crummy, ridiculous, stupid and ugly art." The pressure is off, there is no expectation to create some masterpiece just the void left where true expression can bubble forth.

While I find the movie a little pretentious it still has its moments but if you really want a wonderful view into the man they called, "The Radiant Child" I highly recommend you watch the documentary that was released about two years ago by the same name. I found myself charmed and fascinated by an artist that I never truly paid attention to before.

"Boy and Dog in a Johnnypump" - 1982

So open your journal page, better yet, get some canvas, paper, board or piece of wood and create a journal page you can hang up on your wall. In the end, your expression - your view of the world and your place in it - should be seen and felt even if the only person who sees and feels it is you.

"What is it about art anyway that we give it so much importance? Artists are respected by the poor because what they do is an honest way to get out of the slum using one's sheer self as the medium. The money earned, proof, pure and simple, of the value of that individual, the artist. The picture a mother's son does in jail hangs on her wall as proof that beauty is possible even in the most wretched. And this is a much different idea than fancier notion that art is a scam and a ripoff. But you can never explain to someone who uses God's gift to enslave, that you have used God's gift to be free." - Basquiat Movie

New year, new endevours

2012-01-08T10:19:00.001-05:00

I’ve been quiet for the last few weeks. Lots to do with the comingnew year: Children off from school, my own job becoming hectic as well as somepersonal issues that resulted in getting myself hooked up to a heart monitor.(I’m fine, if you’re wondering). Anyway, lots of reasons why it was best to putthe blog on an impromptu hiatus but I’m back and ready to kick off the New Yearwith some pretty cool things to share. Two of these things I can’t currently share as I have to wait for thepeople involved to give me the okay but let it be said now that it is full ofart and positive vibes and I’m excited to be part of it.

One of the things that I can speak on that I will be doingthis year is hosting something on my blog as well as artjournaling.ning.comthat will involve creating an art/visual journal out of a composition notebook.This of course is not a new concept but it’s been a long 7 month process ofanswering the question: Do I really need all this “stuff” to create somethingthat holds meaning and is aesthetically pleasing to my eye?

This is something I hold close to my heart. When I asked the question, I was actuallyanswering it for my daughter, who is a very creative soul. How can I look at a10 year old and say, “Well, you’re going to need some gesso and somegolden acrylics and if you’re going to get watercolors best to get the Winsorand Newtonones. You can ask your parents to buythem for you, right?” Obviously that’s not exactly encouraging or motivating. The same can besaid for adults who perhaps are not brave enough or financially secure enoughto justify buying expensive artist grade supplies. It’s a scary world outthere, when certain industries have picked up on the fact that there is amarket for those who enjoy journaling visually and have decided to make bank onit! What is a person to do? I’ll tell you what you do – Ignore them alland do your own thing! And that, myfriends, is what I hope to encourage others to do. So,stay tuned it’s going to get interesting up in here.

Daisy Yellow challenge : Periwinkle

2011-12-10T14:54:00.001-05:00

I've been running around all day but found this lovely representation of the color of the day.

Daisy Yellow: Building a Rainbow - Five Days of Color: Salmon

2011-12-08T07:30:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone and welcome to the five days of color challenge hosted by Daisy Yellow. Please be sure to check out Tammy's blog as she is the hostess for my partner color: Pale Pink.

Salmon is an interesting color as it seems to meander between pink and orange. If you go one or two steps too far either way on the hue chart, you'll have missed that combination that makes Salmon what it is. When I think of this color, automatically my thoughts run into memories of summer. Coconut oil and tanned bodies warming themselves under the noon day sun. It is the color of the Caribbean as you walk past colorful houses brightly painted in cheerful brights that make them look like delicious candy.

For this color I thought I wold revisit something I have no done in ages; Digital art. The amazing thing about digital collage/art is the myriads of things that are at your disposal. You can literally create anything your mind conjures up without having the limitations of materials on hand.

Some inspiration via Flickr:

1. Salmon Colored Buds, 2. Turquoise and Corals Wrap Bracelet, 3. Salmon Lucite Dahlia Cabochons, 4. Raindrops on poppies and whiskers on kittens..., 5. Painted Mural, Cordoba, Spain, 6. Salmon, 7. salmon rice bento, 8. chiyogami paper and salmon coloured resin bangles, 9. Simple Swirl Earrings, salmon, 10. Wall of Cafe Laurent, 11. IMG_7110, 12. Salmon, 13. To Draw You In ..., 14. Salmon?, 15. Gerbera daisy with raindrops, peach color, contrast enhanced, 16. salmon-ish chair

Prompts:

1. Try your hand at something different today. Do you usually go for your watercolors; then why not try acrylics? Do you continuiously buy pre mixed colors (like craft paint?) Well then why don't you try your hand and mixing colors to find the perfect shade of pink or salmon?

2. Find colors in unsual places. Grab your camera and pay attention to the world around you. Can you find the color of the day in your surroundings?

3. Why not add a little hidden note about what the color reminds you of. A small piece of poetry, prose a simple list and then add it to your artwork/journal page in an inconspicuous place.

Make sure you add your links with your work for this color over at Daisy Yellow. :)

Technique Spotlight: Color theory

2011-12-07T12:03:00.001-05:00

In continuation with yesterday's theme of finding inspiration and tutorials away from the usual places, I give you this lovely little writeup on color by sashas from deviantart. This one focuses on educating the reader on color theory and how it can e used effectively in our art. (These are also things that can be applied to your art journals as well.):

The Color Tutorial - Part 1 by ~sashas on deviantART

The Color Tutorial - Part 2 by ~sashas on deviantART

Technique Spotlight: Paper dying / staining

2011-12-06T00:43:00.001-05:00

Many times we get so hyper focused on the community that surrounds us that people tend to forget that there is a larger art community out there with an amazing wealth of knowledge waiting to be shared. Places like Deviantart can be an encyclopedia of information when it comes to art technique. Most if not all offered up for free. The next time you are stuck or wish to experiemnt and learn a new medium, check out sites like Deviantart and see if you can search and discover a few nuggest of wisdom that might take your art in a completely different direction.

Our technique spotlight for today comes from Deviantart and features a few technieques for aging and dying paper. This is a great way to create unique and orignal collage papers for you to use in your art or art journals

How to Dye Paper by `hibbary on deviantART

Daisy Yellow: Building a Rainbow - 5 Days of Color: White

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome my color acolytes (this is going to have to stop. I'm going to run out of witty ways to welcome you. *laughs*) Once again I am hosting a color for day five of our Building a Rainbow Challenge hosted over at Daisy Yellow. When you're done here, check out the Daisy Yellow blog to see my partner in crime for today, BLACK.

White is an interesting color as it is in fact the absence of color. It is the symbol of purity and cleanliness. In some cultures it is the color of mourning. White can elude to the delicate, the gossamer and ethereal. It is the mist between worlds and the shorud that hides you from dreams. White is an alpha/omega color. It can be whatever it is that need it to be.

It is also the bane of my exsistence. Now, I have seen gorgeous, fantastic minimalist work done by photographers, artists and journalists. They are masters of the powerful message white can deliver when used correctly. It's just not my color of choice. So, this page was a true challenge for me. I thought: What did I want to convey with this journal page? What feelings did I want to invoke? I decided upon layers. I wanted to stay white on white but that the interest would be texture and layering. I am not sure if I accomplished it to my satisfaction but I have to say that I did like the outcome.:

Some amazing inspiration via Flickr:

1. White Flower / Flower White / Macro / soft macro/, 2. White Daisy / Daisies -, 3. White Lotus Flower Macro / White on white / Lotus, 4. White Flower / Flower Macro / close up flower / closeup / nature / white / : IMGP4921, 5. Soft Macro - White on White - Azalia: IMGP6955, 6. White on white (on white), 7. nights in white satin, 8. white, 9. White, 10. white, 11. White shells, 12. white on white, 13. white sphere, 14. White blossom close up - IMGP6556, 15. white on white 06, 16. WHITE SANDS NATIONAL PARK

How did you incorporate white into your art today?

Daisy Yellow: Building a Rainbow - 5 Days of Color: Aqua

2011-12-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome my color sentinels of the watery deep. I am here once again to host a color for day three of our Building a Rainbow Challenge hosted over at Daisy Yellow. When you're done here, check out the Daisy Yellow blog to see my partner in crime for today, GREEN.

My entry for this color:

Oh, AQUA , How I love thee. You are the color of my dreams floating in the ether. You are the waters of the Caribbean that beckons me in fantasies and the the patina of ancient stories that like to play out in my mind. I draw you out in intricate scrolls and elegant sweeping flourishes. You are the roar of the sea as it crashes upon the shore and the cool smooth porcelain of my favorite tea cup. You are clam and serenity and my affection borders on obsession at times. I might stray and find myself in the playgrounds of other colors but to you I will always return. I just can't help it.

Do you love a color in this manner? Let me know.

1. {121/365} aqua, jodi aqua, 2. Free Little Girl in Turquoise Sea Creative Commons, 3. aqua crinoline hazel atlas teacup, 4. aqua metal, 5. Aqua, 6. Aqua door - Trinidad, Cuba, 7. turquoise bricks, 8. Tiny Flowers, 9. I'm All Alone & It's So Cold, 10. aqua fence, 11. Aqua Skies , 12. Aqua, Green Wreath, 13. Rusty Bell, 14. Orange Koi ~ Turquoise Tile, Um Hmmm!, 15. i don't sleep, i dream, 16. purple martin

This is one of my favorite journal spreads from the lovely Ms. Juliana Coles. Her use of aqua with lavenders, greens, and sepia colors makes me think of an Atlantis where the sun dapples the watery deep.

Daisy Yellow: Build a Rainbow - 5 Days of Color: Yellow

2011-12-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome color warriors to day two of our Building a Rainbow Challenge hosted over at Daisy Yellow. When you're done here, check out the Daisy Yellow blog to see my partner in crime for today, ORANGE.

Below is my own entry for this challenge:

What do you think of when your read the color YELLOW? When I think of the color, the thought of the summer sun filtering through lush green leaves that stretch out into an expansive deep blue sky comes to mind. I think of the way the sand radiates warmth against my skin or the tang of lemonade as it refreshes me on a hot day. Colors are more than a visual. They can morph into sensory triggers. A touch, taste or memory of something that lingers in the back of your mind. So, today when you express yourself using this color - in whatever form it takes - think of what it represents to you and then explore. In the end, you might be surprised as to what comes out.

A little inspiration in the form of a photo mosaic courtesy of Flickr:

1. Yellow Rose - IMG_8490, 2. Yellow, 3. yellow 2, 4. guthrie theater yellow room minneapolis, 5. Yellow Pear Tomatoes 012, 6. Yellow Earth, 7. yellow river, 8. Yellow, 9. Yellow Pepper Redone, 10. Yellow sunshine, 11. Yellow multitude, 12. Yellow tulip quintet - Subtle changes, 13. Yellow is a smile, 14. yellow strings, 15. Yellow Wagtail 110418-081, 16. Yellow Fever

I find that yellow isn't a color I see with frequency lately in the land of art journals but look at how vibrant they are when used:

Page by Irmute at Flickr

or how they add the right amount of "pop" to a simple yet lovely spread:

Page by Lady Reynolds at Flickr

Journal Inspiration: Lisacheney-jorgensen (Flickr)

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

What do I not love about this journal spread? Illustrative, it gives a emotional, comic book edge to her words. Not to mention the use of color. (I'm a sucker for green/blue layouts)

Technique Spotlight: Mirror Writing

2011-11-30T08:07:00.001-05:00

Continuing on from yesterday's theme about incorporating your writing in ways that other people cannot easily decode, I wanted to show something I do on and off to great effect: Mirror Writing.

Mirror writing is formed by writing in the direction that is the reverse of the natural way for a given language, such that the result is the mirror image of normal writing: it appears normal when it is reflected in a mirror. It is sometimes used as an extremely primitive form of cipher. The most common modern usage of mirror writing can be found on the front of ambulances, where the word "AMBULANCE" is often written in very large mirrored text, so that drivers see the word the right way around in their rear-view mirror. (Cited From Wikipedia)

A famous example of this was Leonardo Da Vinci's journals. While no one truly knows why he wrote in this manner some have suggested it was to hide his ideas from rivals.

I love the concept of mirror writing and I do it regularly in my visual journals. Below is a page I did a few months ago. The mirror writing coupled with gesso gives the text an worn antique text feel.. This is another great way to add journaling to your visual pages when you're not comfortable writing. Tomorrow I'll discuss another way to add your journaling into an art journal page in a way that isn't obvious.

Build A Rainbow

2011-11-29T09:09:00.001-05:00

I am going to be participating as a hostess for Daisy Yellow's Building a Rainbow: 5 days of color challenge. My color is Aqua. This challenge will be running from December 1st - 5th. For more information check out her blog: Daisy Yellow.

Technique Monday: Sharpie Ghosting

2011-11-29T08:08:00.001-05:00

Well, I'm already off schedule. Coming back from a long holiday weekend means I walk into work with a lot of things to do. Anyway, better late than never, right?

I've always been a very private person and never have felt truly comfortable writing my thoughts on paper in fear that someone would invade my privacy and read them. This steams from my childhood as my husband of many years would never do such a thing. Still, it is something that I still battle with and it is a reason why visual journaling appeals to me so much. There are though, ways to hide your journaling and this week I'm going to be highlighting some of those ways.

First, I love this technique. It makes for an interesting background and it's a great way to journal something out and have it obscured from the general public (including yourself.)

Sharpie Ghosting via Less Herger of http://comfortableshoesstudio.com

Stonewall

2011-11-28T11:26:00.001-05:00

Stonewall, a photo by sirens_idyll on Flickr.

Stonewall

Journal: Ideas Are Plentiful

2011-11-25T13:03:00.001-05:00

As I have mentioned in another post, I love weathered, antique looking things. I hints at an untold story waiting to be heard. This spread, I was inpisred by this past weeks journal inspiration.

On this page I prepped my pages with a base layer of collage ephemera covering it with a layer of off-white craft paint. To make the page even grungier looking, I spread flexible modeling paste here and there making sure to allow for uneven peaks where my burnt umber glaze could settle into.I then added splashes of green/blue acrylics around the page and printed pictures off of my android phone (the app I love using is called Retro Camera) which lent itself to that vintage look I was looking for. I then journaled about my thoughts on how I wanted to be more consistent with my blogging and how I would accomplish that.

When gathering inspiration from somewhere else, ask yourself, "What do I like about this page?" this will pull you out of trying to replicate someone's work and instead have you focus on your own aesthetic voice allowing you to then apply it to your own work.

Zen Out and Color In

2011-11-24T09:33:00.001-05:00

11_15_11, a photo by sirens_idyll on Flickr.

This is how I tend to relax. I block out a page and begin to doodle slowly each portion until I am done. I then go back and color every part of it, finishing off with a black pen line draw.

Less Herger from http://comfortableshoesstudio.com does something called, Automatic Drawings. Which are these quick sketches that she creates by just letting her hand flow where it feels best. It's an interesting process to watch. This may not be as quick, more of a slow meditative process but it has a similar idea and outcome.

Blast From The Past - Sweetest Girl

2011-11-23T09:50:00.001-05:00

Journal Inspiration: Flickr - Finnabair

2011-11-22T12:12:00.001-05:00

I love old weathered things. If you ask me what my favorite color is, I would probably answer "patina," that faded green/blue that hints at crumbling exteriors and stories left to the elements. It is no wonder that I am happiest when my pages lend themselves to their own history - archeology of the mind.The following pages give me that feeling. Muted colors, sepia tones and warped pages that could easily be found underneath a stairwell at the bottom of an abandoned house. The following pages are from Flickr member: Finnabair

Technique Mondays

2011-11-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

My first technique video comes from RubyClaireART over at Youtube. I love masking tape and using it frequently in my journals. She creates a layered and interesting looking background with paint and some good old fashion masking tape. Enjoy.

Heads up and other words of mystical wonder

2011-11-21T13:14:00.001-05:00

I'm going to be trying something new since this poor journal is so neglected it served me with divorce papers.

It is my hope that I can share with you some of the things that inspire me as well as my own work and thoughts on the whole creative process. Currently, I have a number of lovely creative endeavors that make me feel great. Writing (which I never and I mean never do enough of), visual journaling, fine art and crafting (which again, I do not do enough of).

Hopefully I will keep this up and then my poor blog will be happier for it. So, keep on the look out as it is my hope to begin a certain pattern of posting that will allow me to do so with more frequency. Then again, you just never know, I might fall on my face and you'll get to come along for that ride as well.

I remember when I first was introduced to the world of visual journaling I was hungry for information. I scanned and viewed every youtube video, read every blog post, joined creative artjournaling communities on livejournal and tried to gleam from every journal "process" video all in an effort to learn and grow as I embarked on this creative journey. At the time there wasn't as much information available as there is now. There were no on-line workshops and in order to experience it you would have to have the time and money to attend on in person. This made for a lot of experimentation, exploration and discovery on my end. Eventually, people figured ways to make their teaching ability pay online and before you knew it, workshops were popping up everywhere. Now, do not get me wrong, I'm not anti-paid workshops. I believe they can be a great way to expand your knowledge in a nurturing environment of like-minded people. I just feel that we need to remind those who are just starting out on this journey or whom may not have the resources to shell out 30-60-90 dollars for a workshop that they can do it on their own too. There is a plethora of free information out there that will start anyone who is curious about this type of journaling on the right path and keep them there for a good long time. So, this is where you will see the bulk of my posts going to.

So, if you're new, welcome. If not, welcome. At the end of the day my house is open to you and your curious mind.

I hope I don't disappoint.
Jazmin

Photography Sunday: Sunset

2011-11-20T17:08:00.001-05:00

Sunset, a photo by sirens_idyll on Flickr.

Sunset

Personal Creative Style: How can I get it?

2011-11-15T23:48:00.000-05:00

Today’s blog post is brought to you by the letter C for cranky repressed creative person. I’m drinking some delicious pumpkin pie liqueur as we speak so I’m sure we can dump the repressed crank in a tick but while I am here in the land of pucker face, I’d like to make a disclaimer: This is only my opinion. It is not the only one on the topic and there is a possibility that it will not even be the opinion you agree with. I’m okay with that. Take what I say with a grain of salt.

One of the things that I continue to see over and over again in the small little art circles I currently frequent (and for those of you not in the, “know” this circle would be of the art journaling aficionado type) is a concern about having your own style or as I like to call it, “uniquism paranoia” How do I find my own style, how do I retain the knowledge I may learn from others and yet not have it make what I do a replica of their creative voice? Well, these are all very good questions my fine creative flock of creatives and I find it is not a topic talked about at length.

First, let us get this out of the way: You’re going to make art that looks like someone else’s at some point in time. This is inevitable. It is part of the learning process, it is the part of the discovery and in all honesty, it’s perfectly normal. Perhaps it is even something that you will enjoy doing for a long while before you move on to other things. That’s just fine and as long as you’re happy and if it brings you joy, then you’re doing it for the right reason. This post is not for you.

On the other hand maybe you’re wondering how you can make your pages a little more authentic, something that is easily recognized as yours. That can be hard, especially if you filled your head with the teachings of every type of art journaling/mixed media guru out there with a book, product or philosophy to sell. So how do you assimilate all of this information and visual stimulus without going into technique overload? Here are a few ideas that may work for you. Try them out and sleep on it for a good week. If they’re not a good fit, throw them out and start over again. That’s the fantastic thing about art. You can always smack some titanium white (or gesso) and begin again

.1. Try things out without reading up on how others are using it.
A good friend of mine who happens to be a successful fine artist use to say that he was inspired by those who had no idea what they were doing because they were uninhibited and free. Trust your instincts, sometimes being educated in a technique can inhibit you. Personal style for the most part is distinct quirks and imperfections that are unique to the individual. Embrace them, they’re yours.

2. Step outside of the community box.

It’s easy to see what people who share your interests are doing. It’s also easy to fall prey to the nasty inner critic who tells you that whatever it is you do will never be as good as what you’re currently seeing in the community. Venture out and find inspiration in other areas of art. Ask yourself questions as to what you like or dislike about what you’re viewing. This will help understand your aesthetic and inspire you to try new things that appeal to that creative eye.

3. Learn and technique and then forget it.
This was something I left as a response on artjournaling.ning.com to someone new to the community. Supplies, techniques and community can easily overwhelm you. Take whatever it is that you've gleaned so far and throw it out the window. Just don't even think about it. Then open your journal and picking a few things that immediately call to you and do something -anything. I assure you, all the stuff you've been soaking up is in that mind of yours ready to be used but slightly altered by your memory so that what you found important stays with you. That’s the true secret to doing your own thing. It’s learning and filtering that education through the soft gauze of memories.** That way the heart of the technique is there but it has been altered to meet our needs.

There you have it folks. Nothing earth shattering or mind altering but I hope it is helpful nonetheless. The point of the matter is there is plenty for you to do and say without having to following anything currently out there. A little confidence and trust will take you a long way in the road of self-exploration and creative endevors.

** Of course this might be difficult if you have a photographic memory. To you my snapshot minded friend, I am not sure what to say. If you have any ideas of your own, I’d be happy to hear them.

Mother Nature is not happy. WIP

2011-11-01T13:11:00.001-04:00

Mother Nature is not happy., a photo by sirens_idyll on Flickr.

Mother Nature is not happy.

Back in Black

2011-06-19T20:49:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone. Instead of boring you with excuses of why I haven't written anything here, I will instead direct your attention to more positive things: Mainly what I am up to this summer. The first thing I'm doing is participating in Index Card A Day project for the summer. I love the concept, I think it's a great way to jump start your creativity and get yourself back into the habit of doing something every day. Check out more about it at Daisy Yellow (link) While the official date has come and gone to join her group, I say you should still do it for yourself and enjoy. Here are all of my cards to date. I began June 1st.

1. ICAD #1, 2. ICAD #2, 3. ICAD #3, 4. ICAD #4, 5. ICAD #5, 6. #ICAD 6, 7. ICAD #7, 8. #ICAD 8, 9. ICAD #9, 10. ICAD #10, 11. ICAD #11, 12. ICAD # 12, 13. ICAD #13, 14. ICAD # 14, 15. ICAD # 15, 16. ICAD # 16, 17. ICAD # 17, 18. ICAD # 18

State Of The Union

2010-09-14T22:29:00.005-04:00

I have a confession to make. I’m web 2.0 illiterate. Okay, well perhaps I’m not really that illiterate on the networking front. How about I’m allergic to it? That just sounds terrible doesn’t it? I know it does to my eyes as I read it. Words have always been difficult. Not in terms of expressing myself. I’m good at that. I have a vernacular that can go on for days. My problem is that even for all of my outgoingness, I’ve always been someone inside of my own head, keeping my thoughts and innermost feelings encapsulated in an air of aloofness that all but proclaims, “Nah, it’s all good.”

Words are difficult because they make the expansive ideas on my head small and invalid. I can’t fit everything I feel and think in a paragraph or two or hell, a novel for that matter. I’m not sure how this came about. As a child I loved writing in diaries and as a tween, I use to write elaborate stories in a composition books with my cousins. Then things happen (like parents invading your privacy and others belittling your literary efforts into non-existence). This has all but carved my path on the creative front. I am more comfortable expressing myself in a creative manner that doesn’t involved words, than I am speaking or writing. This is probably why my art journal entries are less words and more art. A small quote and a meaningful visual create a secret language of the heart that only I can decipher. The fact that people can feel and relate to something in that nature is a bonus. I mean is that not the reason we interact on the world wide web?

But getting back to my point.

I’m a horrible at networking and this is something I need to work on. I have intentions of swimming in more turbulent waters artistically and begin selling my artwork. This is both an exciting prospect as well as a frightening step toward gaining confidence in my creative journey. I cannot do that though if I do not create an online presence. The business of Art, as they like to call it, is a necessary evil and one I know I need to master. The problem is, I don't want to create what is a hard sell. Do you know what I am talking about here? I know I hate it when I feel that people are only trying to sell my something. It turns me off. There are a few people I’ve stopped following because of this. I want a sincere connection with someone and I wish to convey that as well but how do I do that?

*SIGHS* See where I'm getting at? In the end, the visual is great but to connect to the artist you need the words. Words are the bridge you need to tie the experience together. It is what allows the reader and watcher to say, "I get it, I get you" and once that happens, you're on your way to truly saying something.

So, I’m here to say to you dear reader this: Perhaps you’ll see more of me around. I hope you enjoy what I have to say, I hope you connect to it on some level and that you take this journey with me into the unknown.

Cause you know, I need someone by my side to help me read the map since the last time I went left on twitter, it took me months to find Blogger again.

Such is life. Live it.

-Jazmin

Until such time

2010-09-14T07:35:00.003-04:00

As I can actually write something intelligent, I leave you with the music that's been playing on repeat for me in the studio.

WIP 8_13_10

2010-08-13T07:46:00.000-04:00

State of Emergency

2010-08-06T10:35:00.006-04:00

The title for this page came from the fact that I was listening to Bjork's Joga on continuous repeat the whole time I was drawing.

Once again, I found an old sketch to redo and refashion. I took three days to complete it and am pretty happy with the result although let me tell you, the process was flippin' fantastic too. I redid the girl in acrylics, then her face with colored pencil. The background though was where I got stuck. What to do? Keeping that in the back of my mind, I decided to tune into Blade (The Artistic Biker's) Ustream when I began to doodle Mehndi designs with my micron pen. I got so lost in the process that I didn't even realize I had spent two full hours just doodling various designs against the teal background of my newly painted muse.

A prompt for your own page: When you journal, take your sweet time. Take not one but two or three days to complete. Do it in stages. Fill every corner with something small, new and interesting. Then let it sit for another day or two. Then look at it, does it feel done? Then it probably is.

The Good. The Bad. The Second Chance.

2010-08-04T14:53:00.006-04:00

One of the things that I had to learn with Art Journaling is the fact that not everything has to be pretty or even finished. I can stop mid page, decide I'm not feeling it and move on to the next. This is liberating, this is creative freedom. In my mind, art journaling doesn't have a destination in mind, just a journey to take you on. Lately, I've been looking over some unfinished sketches and abandoned ideas and making them into something new. Old thoughts creating a new creative path.

The above page was done over a year ago. I was experimenting with my water soluble crayons and antiquing technique, throwing a quick but utterly uninspiring sketch up there for good measure. Then, I was done. I moved on. Over a year and a half later (by my estimation) I was flipping through that old moleskine (now about two/three years in the making) and found many old sketches and abandoned pages that I was beginning to see with new eyes.

Imagine if I just said, "Well, can't do anything with this. It's been over a year and what's done is done?" Yeah, I can't either. I'm very happy with the result and am now looking into recreating a few more pages just for the fun of it.

Lesson to take away from this: It's not over until you say it's over. Don't limit yourself just because you put it away. Find inspiration in old ideas and refashion them into something new. You'll be glad that you did.

Sparkly rainbows and gumdrops am I

2010-08-01T08:51:00.004-04:00

I started a new journal. Well, started in the usual ways I start things, which means that I have two or three in the process of being finished right now. In an attempt to be a little more autobiographical (I'm never good with "writing" things down in my art journal, which is why I let my imagery speak for me.) So, I decided to make the writing more like a short but cryptic snippets of the thoughts in my head at any given time. I should warn you that sarcasm is a huge part of my internal monologue. Oh wait, you'll figure that out for yourself, real quick. Never-you-mind.

(Other pages in this journal)

1. 07_31_10, 2. 07_30_10, 3. 07_28_10, 4. 07_29_10

30 Journals 30 Days Interview

2010-07-31T08:56:00.004-04:00

How long have you been Art Journaling?
I have been art journaling for a little over three years now. I had to take a small break from it when I moved to a new home but picked it up again recently.

How has Art Journaling impacted, changed, or enhanced your life?
Art journaling has been a wonderful experience for me. Due to past experiences, I'm always reluctant to write my thoughts down in a book, afraid that someone will not respect my privacy and read them. With Art journaling, my message can be hidden or blatant. Simple or complicated. I can write a whole page of feelings and then just paint over it. Art journaling has basically freed me and allowed me to express myself fully. Another wonderful side affect is that it has strengthened my creative voice and has made me more confident in my desire to paint and draw.

What are a few of your favorite Art Journaling materials to use?
I fluctuate. When I first began it was cheap colored pencils, crayons and craft paints. As I began to really get into it, I continued with collage and extended paint elements, personal illustrations and more expensive paints. When I began my move, I pared down again to just graphite pencil, watercolor, and micron pen. I'm back to using some collage elements in my work once more and so I'm always changing up the arsenal.

Who are some of your favorite Art Journalers?
There are so many! I am in love with the work of:
Teesha Moore
Milliande
Ink Smear [2] [3]
Pam Carriker
Willowing
Recent Finds:
Marizateria
Comfortable Shoes Studio

What kind words of encouragement would you say to an Art Journal newbie?

Art journaling is about process not results and it is a personal expression of self. Don't worry about getting your pictures up on line, making videos, buying the latest and greatest just because someone said so. Start simple. Begin with glue stick and collage, add doodles .. give it a soft wash of color with some kiddie watercolors. By keeping things simple, you really begin to define and project your very unique creative voice. Also, learn technique not style. Style if something you personally identify with, it's what makes your art or your journal pages authentic. Technique is what allows you to express your style. Don't work on making your pages look like someone else, instead, use inspiration to propel your own style forward.

Where can we contact you...give us some link LOVE!!
Blog
You Tube
Flickr
Twitter
Esty

Short Bio.

I am a 35 year old mixed media artist. I have absolutely, positively no formal training in fine art. I have a creative and artistic 9 year old who is my muse and reason for finding the joy of self-expression in art.

The majority of my artwork and journal entries are heavily influenced by my daughters daily life and my personal insight on my life. It is my opinion that art is an important and viable form of expression available to ALL. It strengthens and refines your artistic voice and becomes a snapshot of your life at any particular time.

My artistic statement is that art is life. Circular, it is a wonderful give and take. If you find inspiration in what I do, that in turn inspires me. Art is not an elite club that you are shut out of but an open invitation to your own unique voice in the world. You are valid. Let your voice be heard.

Inspiration Wednesday

2010-07-28T15:31:00.005-04:00

This is what has me inspired this week.

1. lantern fest, 2. these shoes are made for walkin', 3. 2/365 Berry Nice, 4. Togetherness is Happiness ( x p l o r e :-D ), 5. C H E R R I E S ♥, 6. Sneak Peek 1, 7. her style, 8. None can have a healthy love for flowers unless he loves the wild ones, 9. Untitled, 10. Untitled, 11. {177} half gone, 12. Finally ... a hummingbird !, 13. Day 1271, 14. tavirózsa, 15. ZEN rocks, 16. Can you walk on water? *Explored*

I really need to

2010-07-26T15:17:00.004-04:00

Work on my blog and my networking. *sighs* I am so not cut out for this.

1. artjournal_07_20_10, 2. 07_18_10, 3. artjournal_07_17_10, 4. 07_05_10, 5. 07_07_10, 6. artjournal_07_10_10, 7. artjournal_07_09_10, 8. Painted papers 4

Serendipitous

2010-07-17T13:28:00.005-04:00

Journaling is not about the destination but the journey it took you on to get you there.

K.I.S.S.

2010-07-09T09:38:00.002-04:00

So much time has past since I wrote anything of substance in this journal. The words seem to play in my mind, changing places to better suit the image I wish to create but to no avail. The moment I set fingers to motion on the keyboard, the scramble off like children, laughing at my inability to collect them all in one swoop.

This year has been one of change.

Illustration Friday: Giant

2010-07-03T10:04:00.005-04:00

Illustration Friday strikes again. I began with one of my photographs of a small black bug on a flower. Then I was bored so I drew the girl. I guess the whole point is, who is truly the giant? Is it the flower, which the girl uses as a hat, the girl, who dwarfs the bug or is the bug a giant of some unknown? Everything is perspective.

I really need to work on my noses and the right eye is a bit wonky but that's something I need to work on.

Illustration Friday: Satellite

2010-06-27T14:24:00.005-04:00

Well, this has been a very long hiatus. I wish I could tell you that all of this time has been spent creating and living the artist life but alas, no. Instead, I will tell you that in the past year I have been seeing my children flourish and become supernovas. If that is not Art, then I don't know what is.

My daughter and I have begun to participate in Illustration Friday and so this is where this lovely being came into existence. I feel extremely rusty but my fingers itched with excitement as I saw her come to life.

Illustration Friday Website

Creative Outlets

2009-09-05T23:03:00.003-04:00

I go though phases. They are motivated by time obviously and maybe less obvious, season. Fall makes me want to go outside. I have no time to sit and draw, I want to walk and play and experience the world at large. This is why I always loved photography. So, I decided to try a new project with the goal of posting one new photograph a day. I hope you will join me and if you stop by, say hello.

http://visualjournaling.blogspot.com

Little Universe

2009-08-30T23:42:00.003-04:00

My children start school tomorrow. A new town with a new house having to go into a new school. They are excited over the thought of a new adventure. It doesn't scare them and they are not afraid to think the best. The world expands before them like a well-paved road and they see no bumps, no pot holes just a horizon of opportunity.

Makes you rethink things. Such a large world we live in but if we don't see the possibilities in our own little universe, then what good is the bigger picture?

Through a looking glass

2009-08-28T14:23:00.004-04:00

I can welcome the rain. I can. It's just that I don't wish to right now. It's an uninvited guest. It didn't call before it knocked at my door and I'm still in my PJ's.
So, I'll live today as if it were blue and green with dollops of cream.

To connect or not to connect ....

2009-08-26T12:58:00.005-04:00

What would happen if you shut off the phone and disconnected your computer/laptop? What if the T.V. was on the fritz and your cell phone stop offering text messaging or twitter pic uploads? What would you do then?

I'll tell you what I would do and for the sake of simplicity and honesty here, I'm gonna lay it out there.

I'd have more quality time with my children.

I'd have more time to clean.

I'd have more time to do art

I can be more active outside

I can take more photographs

I can create photography assignments for myself and my daughter

I can read more

I can decorate my home.

I can garden

I can do more art.

I can journal more

I can take long walks.

I can discover the state that I live in.

I can spend more time with my spouse.

I can discover something new.

12 years ago I had no cell phone and I barely had an Internet connection. It wasn't very important to have one and if you wanted to get a hold of me you'd have to wait. Oh yes, that dreaded word. The world had to wait, was expected to wait. If you had to notify me of something you either left a voice message on my answering machine or you would mail me a letter. People were allowed to have lives. Instant describe more the type of coffee you drank, not the speed of communication. The Internet is a fantastic tool and a cell phone is a wonderful invention. Both have their place in my life but sometimes, it takes over what you are until you are left with nothing at all. So, for the next few months, I take back my time. I encourage you to take back yours as well.

On the edge

2009-08-22T09:13:00.006-04:00

I'm always on the precipice of something. Always looking down as my feet teeter totter over the edge, wondering when it's the right time to jump. This whole summer has been a strong hand pushing me toward something but what, I do not know. The weather has been unseasonably cool, the rain a constant companion to the season. The clouds are Kamikaze fighters, battling for space in a claustrophobic sky. My mind has been focused. It has been here, it has been now. There is not time for creativity, there is no moment to dabble in arts. My mind has run a marathon and only when it crosses the finish line will it say, "enough."

I sense the marathon coming to an end. The summer is ending and so begins the best time of year. The air is beginning to stir and whisper through the leaves. Their repose is coming soon, their lullaby is in the making. It's time, my darlings' to become something other than the domesticated diva. The artist is beckoning like a siren and who am I to deny her?

So, I jump.

Rain, rain go away

2009-05-19T10:40:00.001-04:00

Monday, 18th 2009The rain is incessant. It is like a quarrelsome woman for lack of a better stereotype. It refuses to lift its skirt and give anyone a peep of sunshine and quite honestly I am sick of it. Too much of anything can become burdensome and I am quite overdue for some bright sun and blue skies.

Today is the first day of gorgeous weather in some time. The sun is beginning to color everything summer and I find myself envying the life of a cat. I, too want to curl up in a ball by the window and warm myself to a lazy stupor. Alas, humanity claims my innate ability to stretch myself to oblivion and instead I find myself at work.

Recently, I utilized all the free space I have in my walk-out basement and made a little make-shift studio for myself. I have a ton of storage drawers that I use to house my art supplies but they were taking over my living room and worse yet, I wouldn't get any art done because I didn't want to hassle of having to put everything back. My basement is nice and dry, has a lovely large window that lets natural light in and I thought why not place a little set up there? I bought a 6 foot folding banquet table at home depot, threw a table cloth on it and tada! A studio was born.

What a different it makes to have a designated space to make art! I have found myself going downstairs in the evening and just creating for an hour or so. I have the kids small table down there as well and they come down to paint or draw as well. I have started art journals with both of them and it feels good to have a place where I'm not telling them, "be careful! Don't get paint on that!" Freedom is a wonderful thing.

I started up my large art journal again. I love creating on such a big space. I'll have more to share soon. Until then, enjoy the sun.

Rain Forrest Dreams

2009-05-07T20:18:00.004-04:00

My world is a lush haze of green. Everything around me is soaked, wet and growing. The earth is greedy and why shouldn't it be? It's been denying itself for months now, sleeping soundly underneath the snow and ice. There are moments where I am overwhelmed. There is too much stimulation of the senses and I feel the need to shut it all out. I'm alright with the world around me. I may have my moments where I rant and rave about this or that but all in all, I'm okay. There is a school of thought where people feel they must force their happiness. I just recently posted over at twitter that, "Happiness does not barge into your front door. It's too busy waiting for you to invite it in." All I hear around me is, Goddess this and Sacred that. You are worthy, follow your bliss, listen to your heart and move without inhibitions. Dream big, dream small, dream not at all. So much to listen to, so much to aspire to, so much that it becomes too much all together.

Shut off the stimulation. The grandiouse gestures, melodramatic sentiments. Move past the sincere aspirations and miraculous synergy that you wish you were apart of. For one moment, sit in silence and be okay with the world. Understand that you cannot control anyone but yourself, that satisfaction is found in the simplicity of your happiness. That validation at times is the moment of your greatest sorrow. Be okay with the silence. Perhaps you might find what you're looking for after all.

2009-05-05T11:32:00.011-04:00

I've been lazy with this journal. Languid and naughty like a kitten playing with the cream in her milk, I have let this journal go into disuse. In the area where I live, the weather cannot decide if it will deliver a deluge of mild weather or a rampage of summer heat. The trees exploded all at once as if they needed to put their Sunday best on for the parade. I live in a valley of dogwoods in pink frills and gentlemanly oak and ceder in gallant green attire.

My mind wanders endlessly. It hikes, it bikes, it swims through stories that gleefully skip away like rambunctious toddlers. Nevertheless I enjoy the occasional musing that I leave here. It's like inviting guests to tea on a picturesque day.

2009-03-24T11:37:00.005-04:00

Time is a fickle thing. One moment it passes slowly, aging in seconds that linger on for eternity. The next moment it flutters away in the pause between a breath.

I'm holding my breath...

Contrast

2009-03-23T12:31:00.003-04:00

The pain pounds above my left eye. It throbs insistently, trickling slowly down the side and filling the well below the socket. I am working but really I'm not here. I'm floating, my mind sort of resting against the possibility of sleep. I've grown so very tired. Which is nothing new but still irritating and annoying all the same. The weather is just barely beginning to warm up. There are soft murmurings of spring everywhere. Bright cloudless skies where your arms can expand and warm themselves against the sun stretch out as far as the eye can see. If you put on a fleece jacket and sit very still, you can close your eyes and hear the sweet breeze beckon the sleeping flora out of their shells. "Come out, come out" she sings and their sleepy little heads begin to peep out of the damp rich earth that has protected them from the cold heartless hand that is winter. The world around me is slowly awakening - the rebirth has begun.

2009-03-11T22:36:00.003-04:00

I know, I know, I know it's been a while. It's been a LONG while. It's been so long that I actually sneezed when I opened this journal. Dusty with misuse, I can do nothing but say that life is what it is and unfortunately I am not up for writing or communicating much when I am in one of those phases. Temperamental, moi? You jest.

I though would like to share this video. It makes me smile and it makes me happy. I hope it does the same for you. (I'll be sharing some artwork soon.)

I'm not trying to be you

2008-10-16T01:45:00.000-04:00

Just trying to be me.

Days go by

2008-10-10T20:35:00.005-04:00

Some days I feel like I can tackle anything. Other days I feel like a fraud. Today is one of those "other" days. I am mentally drained, all the time. My new job is in the administrative part of the medical field and it has taken me and rung me out. Creatively, I've been in the dumps. I realize that somewhat has to do with my lack of communication with Glen, who really was a cheerleader of the highest caliber. I can hear his response now in my ear, taunting me to take a leap of faith and leave it but I can't. We're in the middle of some heavy and uncertain economic times. A job, especially one that pays well and is close to home is a god send. I need to see those positive aspects and then move on with it.

But then, there is the creating and the fact that I haven't been doing much of it lately. I feel a bit lonely. Not in the, "I'm by myself" sort of way. Obviously with children and a husband I am anything but. I'm lonely because creating was a comforting companion. It was a something that calmed me, something that excited me, it was something that fulfilled me in a way that few could understand.

So, I've jump started myself. I decided to support two artist and take some online classes they were offering. (Side note: You know what I hate? I hate it when I read how certain people have never, "taken a class or read a book," to do art. Bull crap. You have to learn somewhere. Whether it be in a more traditional sense or an unorthodox manner, learning from someone else is a process that we go through It does not make us less original or less of an artist.)

I'm not doing everything to the letter. I have my own style and I kind of like it but it's nice to get another point of view that you might incorporate in your own process. Plus, it's nice to have a supportive community in which to share your accomplishments with.

On that note, that other blog? The one I keep saying I'm going to start but done? I think I might start it sometime this week. I'm not expert, that is for sure but I do believe that art is process of sharing so that you can grow beyond what you know. So, maybe I'll write some articles about creativity and techniques that I use and enjoy. The world is a road yet untraveled. Wonders never cease.

The world turns...

2008-08-28T10:54:00.003-04:00

My job ends on the 31st. I admit both relief and anxiety are both warring inside of me. I will be going back to school briefly to gain some certificates in the field I am working in but with that, I am also expanding the possibilities of what could be artistically for me. The road is curving ahead and I cannot see where it goes.

I guess that is part of the journey itself.

A little help from my friends....

2008-08-07T16:51:00.004-04:00

Snow Man - Glen C.
Have I mentioned how much I adore Glen? If you haven't read his blog yet, you should. Glen is a fine artist of *cough cough* years. He has done everything from portrait and sculpture to writing a novel. I always find him witty and insightful and perhaps you will too. (The above painting is one of my favorites)

http://amomoi.blogspot.com/

Summer days

2008-08-06T14:44:00.003-04:00

It's already August and I feel as though summer is just slipping through my fingertips. I remember a conversion I had with my mother in which she said that once the kids started going through school, it will seem like time is just flying by. I want to freeze time right here. Where my children are young and full of inspiration. Where their world is safe because my husband and I say that it is. I want to see their excitement as they go over the hill of their first roller coaster and cringe when I find out that they want to do it again and again and again. Summer is going by way too quickly and I want the magic clock that makes it stop.

Crack it, crack it good...

2008-07-29T15:57:00.002-04:00

I am in love with crackle. It lends such texture to a journal page. I believe my next youtube video will be a how-to on it.

Detailed

Ch-ch-ch-changes...

2008-07-29T15:13:00.004-04:00

Today I have been contemplating change. While I will not say that I am horrible with change, I do have difficulty with it. There was a time in my life when change wouldn't faze me. I was young with a world of possibility in front of me. I was beholden to no one and could do as I please. Making a split second decision was easy, who would it effect besides me?

Ah, how times have changed. In place of youth I now have age, in place of spontaneity I now have a planned out agenda. Most importantly, instead of being beholden to no one, I am now beholden to a family. Change is not easy for me now, I have too much to worry over.

I am now at a crossroads. A job that once fit my needs is quickly becoming a burden that I cannot bear. Yet, finding a new job in this economy is not exactly piece of cake and I am scared of all that it will bring. My mind is addled with "what ifs" and fear of the unknown is just filling my stomach and squeezing my heart.

Life is what you make it, oh so they say but what if I make it a complete mess? Too many doubts linger where the shadows like to play and I'm left a marionette of their machinations.

We are all connected.

2008-07-27T09:45:00.002-04:00

Those who inhabit this planet are all connected. Something as small as a honeybee disappearing can put the rest of this earth's inhabitants in serious peril.

With all of that seriousness out of the way, how rockin' are these bees? Did you know that Bees when they find a good source of nectar come back to the hive and tell the others how to find it by creating a unique dance and performing it for them?

I'm not sure if they dance to hip hop but hey, one can dream, right?

Journaling when you don't have much free time..

2008-07-24T10:42:00.010-04:00

Journaling has become very difficult for me these past few months. I always seem to have some crisis to advert, some knee to patch up or some bill that needs to be paid. (They're persistent little things, aren't they?) When I can finally sit down, I find my brain just not wanting to engage. It rather sit idle, waiting for sleep to set in.

I tried to break myself out of that mode by making it easy to journal when I did have time. In this I found a new way to unwind by preparing things for eventual journal entries. The added benefit to all of this was time spent with my husband. I would gather all of my supplies and place them on the kids old plastic table sit on the couch and work. He enjoys the fact that I am sitting with him and not whining about what he's watching (sport, blech)and I get to spend time with him and not have to whine about what he's watching (sports, double blech).

I bought a pallet of tube watercolors from Ocean State Job Lot (If you have one in your area, check it out, they have a decent small art section.) They are not the "best" quality but they come in a lovely array of colors and are suitable for working in a journal. I love running two colors together in big drips. Most of the time I do analogous colors as they appeal to me more (more about that can be found here).

I also found myself printing out a lot of my photography. I'm an amateur shutterbug with more pictures on my hard drive than I know what to do with, so why not use them as journal fodder?

I bought a package of 4x6 photo paper from the Dollar Tree. While the paper isn't the actual best quality (obviously, it cost $1) I find that it actually works with what I am doing. I don't do things glossy and perfect, I'm rather messy and matter-of-fact about things. So having pictures that look a little worn around the edges melds in with the rest of the page instead of sticking out like a sore thumb.

The left page by the by was done with Crayola crayons. They're colorful, cheap and you can buy yourself every single color you can imagine (and some that you can't). Everyone and I mean Everyone should have a box handy.

Another way i created backgrounds was with the Portfolio brand water-soluble oil pastels. I would place the color on where I wanted it and then take a finger to smudge it into the page. To avoid the sticky nature of the pastel, I would lightly brush over it with water and then wipe some of it away with a paper towel. Between the finger smudging and paper towel I was able to rid myself of a lot of that problem.

And can I say how much I love the Luminere paints? I bought this blue/green/gold color at Joann's Fabric and fell in love. They give this gorgeous sheen to the pages.

Anyway, that's it for now. Hopefully I will be back to my creative self in no time. ;D

I've got art around here somewhere....

2008-07-22T22:41:00.005-04:00

So, I've been busy (my family is visiting for a week) Plus a lot of upheaval at my place of employment. (Someone want to give me a push in the artistic life direction? The damn paycheck is keeping me from realizing that goal.)

While I try to get my artist self back to former fighting glory, I insist, INSIST, that you check out my two friends. Both of them known in my real life. They can actually track me down and stalk me if they want. (A bit scary, I know.)

The first is my art guru mentor, Mr. C. He just opened up his new blog over at

http://amomoi.blogspot.com

If you want to get to know a working artist who has lived and learned and shares as if his life depended on it, then you need to go read his blog. Say hello! He'll be quite pleased if you did.

The second person on my must read list is my sweet little baby bear, (We shall call her BB for short) She is witty, hilarious and very, VERY sweet. She is the cream in my coffee or is that the coffee in my cinnamon flavored cream? (hahah)

Her blog is found at: http://lendmesumsugar.blogspot.com

So,go say hello, tell them I sent you and hopefully I'll be creative really soon!

Doodle, doodly do

2008-07-12T13:39:00.002-04:00

I'm practicing a three quarter profile, what do you think?

Doodling

2008-07-09T11:31:00.002-04:00

I am enjoying just creating simple colorful backgrounds with water soluble oil pastels and then drawing over them with graphite pencil. I did a glaze of white over their faces to create more definition and I do like the results. Being that I have 18 6x6 canvases coming my way, I might do a series like this.

Another thing that I was pleasantly surprised with was the journal I used for these past few drawings. Usually if I try to gesso a cheap or even an expensive lined journal, I find that the paper buckles and curls. But this journal that I got this past winter from a local dollar store has laid, flat, flat, flat which is FABULOUS (so glad I have another ten journals :P)

Contemplative

2008-07-08T14:54:00.004-04:00

I'm retreating a little bit. I'm trying to find center. A number of opportunities have presented themselves to me and I am at a cross roads. In my usual nature of over analyzing everything, I'm hesitant to take a step forward. I have a husband who is supportive and wishes to propel me forward but I hold back. Why is that? Too practical, too critical, too much judging myself under the skin and into the heart.

I've been journaling a bit and pages seem to run into two color schemes. The first being blue and green, the second being blue and purple.

Now the first thing that I realize is that I am right now attracted to analogical color schemes. Which if you know a little about color theory, is a harmonious color association. So am I looking for harmony or am I becoming more harmonious?

The second being that the traditional views on color moods, the following can be said about my choices:

Blue: Blue represents peace, tranquility, calm, stability, harmony, unity, trust, truth, confidence, conservatism, security, cleanliness, order, loyalty, sky, water, cold, technology, and depression.

Blue can "slow the pulse rate, lower body temperature, and reduce appetite." Blue is considered a business color because it reflects reliability.

Green: Green, one of most-often cited favorite colors. It represents nature, environment, health, good luck, renewal, youth, vigor, spring, generosity, fertility, jealousy, inexperience, envy, misfortune.

"Its cool quality soothes, calms, and has great healing powers." It is often worn in operating rooms by surgeons.

Purple: Purple represents royalty, spirituality, nobility, ceremony, mystery, transformation, wisdom, enlightenment, cruelty, arrogance, mourning. Purple is considered an exotic color.

So where am I, I wonder.

Journaling or not?

2008-06-25T08:59:00.004-04:00

A lot of what I do, I consider as just creating art. While there might be some message or feeling behind what I do, it is not always auto biographical. I feel safe showing it on here because what you see is more of what I enjoy to show. I love the visual journals of Traci Bunkers. (http://tracibunkers.blogspot.com/) They are very raw and honest pictures of her life. I admire her bravery of displaying them for the world to see and judge but it also brought to mind my philosophy on art journaling.

I like to think that I have an art journal, that is, that I enjoy creating art in a journal on a daily basis. It is a chronicle of my process and progress and a good coffee book when I am done! ;)

What I would like to have is a visual journal, to many of you there is no distinction but to me there is. A visual journal in my eyes is just that. A personal journal of your life that you express with more than just words. To me it is different in that the former is a chronicle of my artistic endeavors while the latter would be a chronicle of my life, my thoughts and my journey as a person. It's a bit more personal and makes me feel more vulnerable.

I am thinking on it, only because I am of the idea that it is important to have a heart outlet, a place to let it all out without fear of repercussions or judgment. A place to look back on and reflect and even learn from.

I enjoy sharing my art journals, they are part of my process but I believe I might have to keep a visual journal as well for the purpose of having a place to expel thoughts and feelings and then stick it under the bed for another day.

2008-06-24T10:30:00.004-04:00

I haven't created a ATC in a long while. The size is perfect for doodling when you're really suppose to be working. You though, did not hear that from me.

Into The Woods

2008-06-22T17:24:00.004-04:00

I've got no words today. Too tired, too worn, too much wishing that I could ciphen my children's energy, make it into a drink and get drunk off it.

Journey

2008-06-17T23:44:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I feel I get so caught up in goals and destinations that I forget to experience and enjoy the journey that gets me there.

Work in Progress

2008-06-16T13:19:00.001-04:00

There is a Gorilla siting in the back of my mind and it's patiently waiting for me to tempt it with a banana.

Peace is a work in progress. There are always bananas trying to make that other part of you want to come out and play.

Root Canal

2008-06-09T20:47:00.006-04:00

There are a few things you should know about me. One is that I'm a stubborn mule, the second, that I have a very high threshold for pain. So keeping this in mind, it should be no surprise that I put myself in a very bad situation but not paying attention to my mouth when it began screaming in pain. Finally today I caved and went to the dentist, who then told me the dreaded news. I have a tooth abscess and in order to prevent future problems I would need a root canal to save the tooth.

"Um, okay... when do we start?" I ask hoping that next week would be the mark but knowing fully that it was not the case.

"No, we start now. I need to drill a hold into your tooth, take out the nerve and then clean out the infection." he replied with a sympathetic tone.

Yeah. Next time, I go at the first twinge of an annoyance. I can't believe I'm going to have to get one of those suckers. Blech.

I think many people need to remember that an art journal, is just that, a journal. If you're too busy wondering how other people are going to perceive your work or how you should edit it for online use, then you're doing it wrong. Share, yes but don't' over think it to the point of losing the purpose behind having one.

Motherhood

2008-05-28T10:23:00.002-04:00

Someone asked me the other day what motherhood was like. I answered, "Motherhood is the knowledge that your heart no longer resides within but outside your body."

"Sounds scary," they mused.

Oh you don't know the half of it.

Mariposa

2008-05-23T21:35:00.003-04:00

I've been contemplating my intuition. That nagging voice in the back of your head that tells you something isn't right, something is off, something is different. I listen to that voice quite a bit as it has never really been off the mark. I tend to pick up on the nuances of body language and inflection of voice. Perhaps that is what makes me good at reading people. I quietly analyze behind my defenses and wonder if this time I will be wrong.

I hate it when people change towards me. I rack my brains wondering what have I done wrong and pretend I don't notice.

I know this is old and most of you who visit have seen this on youtube but I'll place it here for posterity anyway.

Questionable

2008-04-28T11:16:00.002-04:00

This is what I want.. to catch the whimsical -- that sweetness and elegance in being simple and bright. I want to capture translucent light that filters through gauze and the playful breeze that billows through trees. I want to hear my song sing itself in that way that only I can decode. I want to be female. Strong but soft, bold but subtle. I want to be succulent and warm to the touch. I want to be simple yet complicated, layered like a good plot in a book. I want to be something more, something else and yet be me.

I want to be this. Achieve it to be it is what I say but I hold back and I wait. I need to stop looking for the start gun to go off and just go.

I want my heart song... in gentle defiance of what people think it should be.

Dunce

2008-04-09T22:03:00.002-04:00

From people that you work with that don't quite "get" it to 8 children who seem to have lost their way in the path of love and humanity, it seems that Albert Einstein just says it best.

I haven't been doing much lately. My daughter has the stomach flu, I've been sick as well and work is well hectic. I am working on a series of paintings for my daughters room. It will be fun to share those here. I've already begun cutting out butterflies for the first one.

Slump, slump, slump, slump

2008-04-09T00:51:00.003-04:00

First because she said she is stalking me. I love you, Candace! Forgive my lame self for not contacting you. I'm an idiot. I am, I'm sorry. :\

I've been in a creative slump lately. This was my last youtube venture.

The Rabbit Hole

2008-03-24T21:11:00.004-04:00

How far does the Rabbit hole go? As deep as the imagination allows.

Cathedrals

2008-03-18T10:28:00.001-04:00

Circus Runaway

2008-03-03T12:47:00.001-05:00

There are days where I would like to run away with the circus. Funny enough I never wanted to run away with them as a little girl. As an adult... well that seems to be a different story. :)

Detailed:

Ageless

2008-02-29T10:59:00.001-05:00

March is almost upon us, which means that my birthday is coming up. 33. It seems like a blink of an eye and I'm past twenties and diving into my thirties. Do I feel different? With the occasional gray hair and perhaps an ache or pain that wasn't there before, no, not really. My mind still races as if I were 19 and in love with the world at times. When I look around, it seems like people think it is wrong to be how I am, that I should, "grow up."

I work, I help support my family, I cook, clean do laundry ... so why can't I dream? Aging is an evil trick of the body that the mind cannot comprehend. It still thinks it has eternity to be.

Dream Friends

2008-02-28T09:17:00.003-05:00

This morning I decided to make myself a peppermint stick milkshake. Shhhhh, don't tell my kids.

Psuedo rule makers and art snobs

2008-02-26T14:17:00.007-05:00

Those who can do. Those who can't criticize.
Suzi Blu: Art Journal Playshop With Suzi Blu: Rubber Stamp Letters

So, yesterday on youtube I just happen to follow a link to a person who professes to be sick of copy cat artists who follow pseudo gurus and I couldn't help but shake my head.

The comment was made in relation to Suziblu, whom if you have not seen one of her youtube videos is this woman trying to make it as a working artist and creates videos where she encourages people to create art/visual journals and helps them by giving them prompts and how-to's. She has grown quite popular in youtube land with her introduction to art journals garnering over 60,000 views.

So, what has this woman and the people who enjoy her videos done to deserve being labeled as copycats and pseudo guru's? Share their enthusiasm and positivity? Begin their own journey in the world of personal art for art's sake? Copy a few pointers as a starting point to discover their own style?

I find that people who feel like they need to define and coat things in a negative context are usually upset that someone blew up their spot. Did this woman claim that she created the concept of an art journal? No. Does she sit there and point fingers at other's and call them copycats? No. So what is it? What could possibly cause someone to get so upset over a person who put their feelings out there and in return received a lot of positive feedback?

Perhaps it is the fact that someone is being followed and recognized because they dared to put themselves out there and they were rewarded with a connection. Perhaps in the back of their mind they are saying to themselves, "Not fair! Why does she get the accolades, she's done nothing special, hasn't invented something new. Why is she getting the credit for it?" When what they really mean is, "That could be me, I can't believe I didn't think of it first, second or last. I can't believe I didn't do something, anything and in the end got rewarded with nothing."

Now it could be that this person really has no desire to do these things but if that is the case, then why rain on someone's parade? I just don't get the whole, You're not "legitimate" if you don't fit into the parameters of my own self-imposed rule book.

What is the purpose of my long windless rant? I guess that life is too short. If you're so "fed up" that certain people have adopted a style or laud a person for turning them on to something new, then here is a thought, ignore it and do what you like. Getting angry of things of little importance is like waiting for the start gun to go off in order to live your life. In the end it's a waste of time that could have been better spent doing something that makes you happy.

Inspiration

2008-02-23T14:32:00.001-05:00

I got the most wonderful e-mail about a week ago from someone who viewed one of my youtube videos. It's nice to see that people are inspired by what I do and perhaps it encourages them to do it themselves. I cannot express enough how important it is to understand that there are things you do for yourself, not an audience and visual journaling is one of them. Pick up a pencil, pen, crayon, marker and just do something. One drawing leads to another, leads to a collage, leads to acrylic paints, leads to canvas and before you know it, you're wondering how in the world did you not express yourself artistically.

Here is a new journal page with a, "how I did it," youtube video to accompany it. I'm in the process of brainstorming a few other videos with the intention of encouraging others to journal. Well see how that pans out but until then, enjoy and please let me know what you think. I appreciate it all of your comments!

New Pages

2008-02-22T08:46:00.002-05:00

Make ART!

2008-02-16T19:40:00.002-05:00

Created this in response to Cheekychen's call to arms on youtube. Amazingly enough, with all the artists submitting videos of their artwork, there is no "Art" category on youtube. He's hoping to change that. View the short, short video below.

Love, Love, LOVE!

2008-02-13T12:05:00.001-05:00

Holy cow, red and pink everywhere.

New pages

2008-02-07T13:39:00.000-05:00

I'm telling you, this journal is inspiration gold. AHH

hangs head in shame

2008-02-06T14:20:00.000-05:00

I've been ignoring you, little blog and I apologize! My fingers have been busy creating art, working on new journals and etc, etc, etc...

I have so much to share, so if you're tuning in, I suggest you go do a load of laundry and come back so you give your browser time to download all the images. All set? Great! And away we go!

I decided to try out some new techniques. There is a young lady on the net who goes by the name of ink_smear. She has these lovely melancholic journal pages that I just love. Unfortunately, I cannot be melancholic to save my life. I'm not sure why but my angst ends up being too bright and colorful to be anything more than a passing whine on the, "get over it" train. Nonetheless here is my attempt. I was feeling pretty blah that day.

See what I mean? GREEN not any green mind you, oh know, bright spring green! *sighs* I give up, I'm going back to my happy little world.

Anyway, in that fiasco, I ended up messing up some of my moleskien pages and they fell out. Well, I just taped that sucker back up with some packing tape and we were back to new.

Link to YouTube Video

Taking a break from the journal, I decided to make an attempt at using my own photography in my artwork. I have more pictures than I know what to do with and I was sure I would be able to find some use for the ones that don't make it to the album.

Again, experimenting and while I semi-like the results, I still found it too piecey. Need to find some cohesiveness in my work.

So, I decided I needed a larger canvas to journal on and went to borders where I found some amazing "scrapbook" journals by their Paperchase line. The paper is what I like to call, "paper bag brown" and are thick making them perfect for visual journaling. I've been so inspired by the size and look of the journal that I have been on a journaling spree since the 2nd. Here are all the pages up till now: (click on the thumbnail to see the larger image)

Whew! That will teach me to procrastinate posting again!

I couldn't draw a stick figure

2008-02-02T10:50:00.000-05:00

Ha, proved myself wrong, didn't I?

Opening the door...

2008-01-29T20:00:00.000-05:00

Rotten Apples

2008-01-28T14:39:00.000-05:00

I hate this page. Nothing works, the colors are horrible and everything I did to save it just made it worse. Nevertheless here I am displaying it, if anything for the simple point that art is a process and sometimes you make really crappy art. I salute you, horrible page. You've shown me what not to do the next time around.

For the last few days, I've been in a very "paint splatter, makes no sense, what is going on here?" type of mood. What's pretty cool is that the pink// sky blue one got a note from Linda Woods. If you don't know who she is, she is the author of two books that I just love, "Visual Chronicles" and "Journal Revolution" (which is the book I bought for my father to get him on the journaling band wagon.) While my mantra has been that I am doing this for me and that I share because I enjoy doing so, it is nice to have someone whose written a book on the matter give you a thumbs up.

PROJECTS!!

I have a few projects in he works that I hope will just help me with my goal of being creative on a consistent basis this year. One of the things I'm going to do is create a mini studio in my basement. I have a walk-out basement with a huge amount of space that I really do not use. I'm going to create a work space/studio for myself there. I'll be working on saving my money to create it (No CREDIT!) and hopefully having that space all to myself will help me set time for myself.

The other thing I have going on is creating a pretty room for my daughter. She's asthmatic and isn't allowed to have things like mosquito netting, drapes, etc... in her room to reduce the amount of allergens she is exposed to.

So, we're going to create a special place for her so that she feels she is getting her "girlie" room without compromising her health. Part of this is creating a series of mixed media paintings on a little mouse girl that I've drawn and she seems to love. I'm sketching out ideas in my journal and perhaps when we finally move into our own home, I will be able to make one of those paintings a mural on one of her walls.

So much to look forward too, I can't help but be excited.

Art/Journal Prompt.

2008-01-24T16:14:00.000-05:00

I like the various prompts out there. So many talented people just inspiring one another and that, is encouraging. Sometimes though, I would like to inspire myself and so I create my own moment of thought that pulses, blinks and scatters out into the expansive cosmos or whatever it is you wish to call it.

nolens volens \NO-lenz-VO-lenz\:
Whether unwilling or willing.

I like this saying. It's Latin and that alone makes it cool. (Ever notice that everything sounds more grandiose in Latin? No? Give it a try.)

So, where was I? Oh yes, Nolens Volens. What makes an artistic soul? Is it the steadiness of their line or the smoothness of their curve? Is it their value of color or their ability to render beauty in black and white? Does the artistic soul rise above in surrealistic splendor or instead, does it explode in a brilliant kaleidescope of impressionistic light?

In the end the word Nolens Volens describes it best. The artistic soul is driven to create, to express to visually expound whether willingly or unwillingly and no amount of previous talent or skill can derail the drive to do so.

So I learn to create, regardless of quality or quantity because I can and most importantly because I must.

*Feel free to leave your own thoughts in comments or trackbacks.*

Hello Yellow, Batman!

2008-01-23T02:29:00.000-05:00

I was feeling, "sunny" so I changed the layout a bit. My layout's so bright, I've gotta wear shades. (Yes, that was an 80's reference.) Not sure how long I can stomach the yellow but wooo, Sunny days.

The right frame of mind.

2008-01-22T16:09:00.000-05:00

I have been reading this book called, "Drawing on the right side of the brain, which was highly recommended by an artist friend of mine. It is fascinating and validates some of the feelings I had about not being able to, "see," what I wanted to draw.

In that book, they discussed how children easily tap into the creative or visual side of the brain but eventually our creativity is destroyed by a careless remark or uninterested teachers. Which I find to be true and sad. There are so many variations of art and some art is there to celebrate you, not to hang in some museum gallery. Plus, who is to say that your art in another thousand years will not be considered something of great worth or value? Art is subjective, art is expressive, art is well, art.

With this very enlightened view (and with the blessing of my artist friend) I went into a local chain discount store and bought up 10 8x10 canvases (at $1.99 a piece you just can't beat.) I think I will encourage my children (or in this case my daughter since my son is too busy reading about dinosaurs.) to paint, paint, paint! Paint it, marker it, glue it I just do not care! At the price that the canvases were going for, I say why NOT allow your children to freely express themselves and then hang their artwork. Validate their creativity! Why delegate the refrigerator as the place to put children's art. I say, give it the respect it deserves and hang it in their rooms, hang it in your living room, heck, let the newest piece have a place of honor on a pretty blank wall in your hallway! Think of what message you are sending them:

You are valid, your art is valid.

And that is my wisdom for the day.

More Pages from my Moleskine

2008-01-14T23:22:00.000-05:00

New year, new journal

2008-01-06T17:10:00.000-05:00

So we begin the new year with my lovely moleskien. I need to paint on canvas again and stop finding excuses why I cannot. Sometimes art isn't about doing something gallery worthy but just painting because you need to just put it down on canvas.

A year in review

2008-01-02T20:34:00.000-05:00

Don't you think your life is important enough to chronicle?

Close yet so far away...

2007-12-31T08:17:00.000-05:00

My daughter felt that Mr. Snowman needed a Mrs. Snowman, with a bow.

Snowman's Lament

2007-12-29T23:45:00.001-05:00

Royal Contemplations

2007-12-29T21:19:00.001-05:00

It has been a month since my last post. Already I can feel myself saying, "See, you can't even keep it up." BUT I shut out that voice quickly. I've been learning to do that, lately, shut off the voice. The one that says you're a failure or lazy or whatever-else-you-can-think-of here.

It's been a stressful month. Family drama, death and work just seem to crowd out that small amount of time that I set out for myself. Responsible of me, I know but still, I wonder if it is irresponsible to ignore me.

I have been sketching in my art journal and already my fingers are itching to start my new one for the year. I went pretentious and got myself a Moleskien. Oh la la! So very artistic of me! My goal is to draw in it as often as I can making it a daily thing for me. Expression is the spice of life and who wants to live out their days with bland food? Not I, said the fly and the flea agrees!

Chronicle

2007-11-25T23:40:00.001-05:00

This is a chronicle of my father-in-law's passing. He died On Sunday morning at 7am after a long battle with cancer. During the time we spent in the hospital, I sketched my heart out. It relieved my anxiety... these are the things I finished, with the last one being a sketched I had started during his dying process when I was alone in the room with him, just sitting quietly drawing. The sketches have no secret meanings, I just did whatever came to mind or at the suggestion of the children that were there.

mouse girl

2007-11-22T20:42:00.001-05:00

I spent my whole day today in the hospital. You see, my father-in-law is dying, so many of our days are spent there with him. I get anxiety around so many people so I draw to sort of keep my mind off of things.

Creating without thought

2007-11-19T22:49:00.000-05:00

Ever draw something and have it become something else? Yeah, me neither, at least not until now. I was trying to draw different type of hair and instead, it sort of evolved into a shawl. I want to write a little story about her because I feel she needs one but none come to mind.

I want to call this one a Lioness because somehow I've made her features turn out to be a bit animal like. Wereanimal, perhaps? Ooo, there is a thought. Hm.

Winter's Kiss

2007-11-18T09:07:00.000-05:00

So, I've been sick yet again. My husband bought something called Airborne which he swears by when he's feeling a bit under the weather. Of course, being the eternal skeptic, I sneered at his attempts to make me feel better but took the dose anyway. Three doses and one good night sleep later and I hate to admit it, I'm feeling better. Hm... Tell the husband he's right? Oh, I so don't think so. *grins*

So, part of my blah day was spent creating this little 6x8 piece of canvas board. The colors are a bit off, I don't think the scanner liked the beading. :)