Wednesday, February 16, 2011

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #21

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT Tuesday) Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.  
I hope you will join in the fun!


I have only recently became acquainted with Anna's beautiful artwork.  The whimsical quality of her drawings delights my  heart and fills my eyes.  The kitty pictured above is especially sweet.

Anna writes, "I have been painting all my life since I remember me. When I was a child, I read a book where story hero Karandash painted pictures, which become alive as soon as they had been finished. I thought if I will learn to paint really good, my pictures will become alive some day too. This child dream still lives deeply in my heart. I know it will never happen, but I feel addicted to magic of painting and drawing, because it makes our life so emotional and colorful."  I can identify with Anna--when I was a little girl I would dream the same kinds of dreams. 

To see more of Anna's art, visit Art by Anna.

I first became acquainted with Bob through my friend Amber.  He is a truly amazing artist and a nice guy, too.  Most of his unique pieces are ACEOs.  The incredible detail he puts into his "Bone Work" art is stunning.  Happily, you can find his artwork for sale on Ebay at b.l.ink!  I have seen his work in real life--it is beautifully made. 

Bob writes, "...My life has been good for the most part.  I draw, I live, I work, I raise my son as best I can, and hope that is good enough for all things to turn out well in the end."

To see more of Bob's wonderful bone art stylings visit Bone Work by Bob.

Julia Christie is a graphic artist, who's work woos the eye.  The exquisite detailing in her artwork is lovely.  I like her stories and I have enjoyed reading the step-by-step descriptions of her own creative process.  She is a dear lady who's work is truly marvelous.

Julia writes, "I live on the west coast of Washington State on an island. The San Juan Islands are my neighbors and yes, I do know how lucky I am. I am fortunate to have fallen in love with the most wonderful man in the world...For some reason, he continues to fancy me too. I am a mother first and foremost and it is such an incredible privilege to guide my little ones as they learn how to navigate through this world. Mothering can consume me ~ I'm trying to make a little room for me again tho, so I'm working on writing my first novel. I've also rediscovered the artistic side of myself and am having a blast finding artistic inspiration everywhere!"   Thank YOU for inspiring us, dear Julia!

 To see more of Julia's fascinating work, visit Serendipity - A Mother's Tale.


I have been a big fan of Al's for a long time, now.  He has a way of seeing our world which bewitches the  eyes.  His work is truly breath-taking!  I count it a privilege to know this talented photographer.  He has been and continues to be an inspiration to me.

Al writes, "Born in London, I've lived in The Netherlands, New York, and Washington DC. Now I've settled down in Colorado and love taking pictures. Unless otherwise stated, all pictures are taken by me with my Nikon D40X. I do almost no photo editing - occasionally I will crop or remove a dust spot, but that's all. What comes out of the camera is what you see here."

To see more wonderful photography, visit Al's Photography Blog.

I met Prospero through my sister Clytie.  I have been a big fan for quite some time.  This artist philosopher often ties his photography to words and phrases in such a way, I find myself fascinated to find the link between the two.  His artistic photography is startlingly beautiful, wonderfully thought-provoking.  I want to add that his lovely assistant Angelina, is especially adorable. 

To see more visit Prospero at the Serendipitous Garden.

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.
*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art on Linky tools.
*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.
* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.
(We artists need to encourage each other!)
* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

The Rose


This is an ACEO, 3.5 x 2.5 inches.  Over the past day or so, I've been experimenting with Prismacolor pencils on black art paper.  This is the last of four experimental ACEOs.  I love roses--I especially love the way this one turned out!   I thought this Rose would be perfect for Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentines Day Everyone!

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #20

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT Tuesday) Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.  
I hope you will join in the fun!

I have been a big fan of James Browne's artwork for several years.  His work is ever inspiring to me--I  LOVE his unique style and the whimsical way in which he views his world.  As he states, he paints for those who remember what it is like to walk in the heart space of a child.  

James writes, “The older I have become and as my artwork matures the more my heart yearns to create. This yearning becomes a passion and my true emotions flow out of me as I paint. When you create, I believe you have to open yourself up and reach deep within to really get a feel for what you're all about and what you hope to say or express in your painting. Then everything you paint becomes real to you and for the viewer anything is possible. I paint for just that reason. It is a wonderful feeling to share my imagination and emotions with people through my paintings.” 

To see more of James Browne's whimsical artwork, visit Everland.

I have only recently discovered the wonderful artwork of Laurie J. Grove.  The little Jack Russell terrier above is an example of the exquisite detail found in her art.  Her cats are also beautiful.  Laurie is a natural born artist who has the gift of drawing the essence of her subjects into the pieces she creates--each one is delightfully inspiring.  Laurie attended the University of Texas in Austin and Texas Tech University.  There she studied photography, drawing and sculpture.  Her artwork can be found in all 50 states and in over 37 countries.  It is a privilege to know this lovely lady.

Laurie writes, "I have always loved the arts and can remember being pretty serious working with my pastels and charcoals before age 10..."

To see more of Laurie's fabulous art visit Art by L. J. Grove.   
 

I am also featuring my talented sister Clytie, who's artwork totally inspires me and fills my eyes.  I love the art she creates from "genuine" graffiti, trash and recycled treasures.  Each of her amazing works of art, are one of a kind and absolutely beautiful.  I am in awe of her imagination and creativity.  Sissy is a HUGE inspiration to me. 

Clytie writes about the source of the graffiti she uses in many of her artistic creations.   "I watched as the abandoned mega-church across the street became a magnet for taggers and graffiti artists. Many works of art were made on walls backed with drywall. Subsequent vandals kicked in these walls, leaving pieces of graffiti scattered around. I picked these up, removed the drywall backing, and turned them into art. The mega-church is now cleaned out - no more graffiti. But I have my stash!!!"

To see more of Clytie's incredible graffiti art, visit Random He'Art'Work.



It is only recently I became acquainted with Georgina Bedwell and Midnight the Wonder Cat.  What a delightful blog--depicting the daily blog of a fictitious cat--but as she says, don't tell him, he doesn't know.  I fell in love this blog.  With the recent loss of our own dear Bootz--the adventures of Midnight (from a cat's view), made me laugh and inspired my heart.  Thank you Georgina!

Georgina writes of herself, “I am a daughter, a friend, a girlfriend, a grand-daughter an artist, an aspiring writer, a wise cracker, a dreamer, and a thinker who above all else wants to create a beautiful life.”

To see more of Georgina Bedwell's engaging art, visit Midnight's Blog.

I LOVE the artwork of Elizabeth W. Sever.  Her birds are especially darling.  The detail of her work is astounding, as is the warm feel she infuses into each piece.  She makes me smile--the way she sees the world is wonderful and the sometimes hidden humor in her pieces is inspiring.

Elizabeth writes, “I love birds. They remind me of people I have met..” 

To see more of Elizabeth's fabulous artwork, visit Elizabeth W. Seaver Fine Art.

 If you would like to take part in FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, 
these are the guidelines:

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.
*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art on Linky tools.
*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.
* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.
(We artists need to encourage each other!)
* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Our Sweet Friend Bootz The Cat

This is our sweet little Friend Bootz The Cat.  Boots flew away from this earth ten days ago.  She left a giant hole behind.  How we miss the funny things she did.

She had claimed the left side of my desk as her own.  If I happened to leave something I was working on in HER space--she'd push whatever it was off the desk--into the garbage, then sit back on her haunches, staring down as though to say--well, that's where THAT belongs.  She would often jump onto my desk.  She would start her flying leap from across the room.  The impetus of impact would send everything except Bootz, onto the floor. I think she liked the noise it made--and the fuss I made.  lol  She was so cute I could only laugh at her.

She would follow my husband and I around the house, interested in everything we did.  When I would sit at the kitchen table to draw or read, Bootz would hide under my skirt, sitting on my toes--snagging anyone who passed by, along with strings, feathers--whatever might dangle into her reach.  She knew how to open doors and loved to watch the birds from my husband's office window.  She slept on Alan's lap in the evenings and spent her night times cuddled between the two of us.

She rarely spoke, but when she did--we knew something was up.  She needed additional water in her dish, or wanted more food.  She disdained  people food of any kind, preferring her science diet food. 

The day before she left us, she snuggled more than she had ever before.  She stayed as close to each of us as she could.  She even would lay her head on my arm as I worked on my computer.

This picture was completed some days ago--I wanted to share her happy face with you.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #19

This week, in honor of Bootz The Cat, I am featuring artists who love cats and who's drawings have touched my heart.

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT Tuesday) Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.  
I hope you will join in the fun!
  

Stephanie Manchipp’s work is new to me. This wonderful artist trained at Reigate School of Art and Design, and is a well-known artist whose work has been sought after by a variety of international publishers.  

Stephanie uses a variety of mediums to create her imaginative pieces, including watercolour, oils, acrylic, pastels and oil pastels.  My favorites are her exquisite cats.  It is not surprising to discover she is a Member and Vice Chairman of the Society Of Feline ArtistsShe is a member of the prestigious Society of Industrial Artists and Designers, S.I.A.D., and sometimes exhibits her work along with her gifted husband, artist Ben Manchipp.

To see more of Stephanie’s lovely artwork, visit her gallery at Manchipp.com.


I have featured the art of Sandrine Curtiss on FAT Tuesday before--and I love her description of herself as a self-taught artist who, inspired by the talent of her older sister, started drawing portraits with graphite pencils.  I have actually had the awesome privilege of getting to know this incredibly talented artist.  Her artwork is not only truly amazing, but she is a lovely person.  Her drawings of cats especially touch my heart.

Not surprisingly, in the summer of 2002, Sandrine won a full scholarship for the Art Instruction Schools in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Her beautifully drawn pieces are so realistic, they almost seem to move.  She understands the soul of her subjects.  Sandrine is a HUGE inspiration to me.  I could look at her artwork and never get tired of looking.   Happily anyone can purchase her collectible artwork on EBay! 

To see more of this precious artist's incredible work, visit Sandrine's Gallery.


I was delighted with artist Sue Sareen's cats.  The drawing above especially caught my attention.  Our Bootz sometimes slept in this exact position.  Though Sue paints across a wide variety of subject matter, she has a particular affinity with cats. She enjoys their independence, their sinuous grace and beauty of movement. Always in her paintings there is a strong sense of intimacy with the subject matter.

Sue has published a book on watercolour painting, produced two videos and frequently writes articles for the Leisure Painter, and The Artist magazines. She teaches regular classes and workshops on watercolour painting in her Nottingham studio and organizes painting weekends and holiday’s abroad.  That sounds like a LOT of fun.

See more of Sue Sareen's lovely work at Sareen Arts.


Dawn Russell's artwork is a delight to my heart.  A native Californian, this talented artist has a variety of styles and subjects.  She has been drawing since she could hold a pencil, and has wanted to be an artist since she can remember.

Her artwork can be found in collections around the world.  She has been a juried artist in several guilds and has won awards in international competitions since she was 10 years old!  Her artwork has been widely published in various magazines.  Dawn specializes in  pet portraiture, but that's not all, this wonderful artist also does cartooning, greeting card designs, trading cards, and more. She paints, sculpts, draws, and does something called pyrography. It is no surprise she also designs jewelry!

To see more of this eclectic artist's fabulous work, visit Dawn Russell Artwork and Photography.


Jackie Coote's cat drawings are filled with personality.  The painting above is especially special to me, because this kitty reminds me so much of our dear Bootz.  Jackie is a self-taught artist and a member of the Society of Creative Arts of Newtown and the Putnam Arts Council of Brewster, NY.  She works mainly in watercolour, but has lately begun to get back into acrylics and oils.

Jackie painted while in high school and became interested in painting again after she raised her family. Although Jackie's work as an artist varies in style and subject matter, she is frequently inspired by her own five cats (Frank, Dennis, Eddie, Lily and Donald), as well as the furry companions of her friends and family. 

To see more of Jackie's wonderful drawings, visit her gallery at Feline Artists.


I have the lovely privilege of knowing this artist personally.  She is my dear Friend.  Amber Day is a self-taught artist, who's beautifully detailed watercolors are exceptional.  Though she paints a variety of subjects, her cat drawings are especially cool.  There is a whimsical quality to her work which greatly inspires me.  You can find Amber's collectible artwork for sale on Ebay under animaegirl! I own a few pieces of her work, including the tiger above, so I feel especially blessed!

You can see more of Amber's charming artwork at Doodles by Amber.


Here is another of my favorite artists, Lynn Risor.  She is an inspiration to me.  I especially love her cats.  I have no idea how she is able to create the beautiful paintings she does--but I am grateful to God for her presence in this world.  Lynn also does incredible murals, as well as animals painted on rocks which look so real they almost seem to move.  She is a brilliantly gifted artist and I am honored to call her Friend.

To see more of Lynn's charming artwork, visit her blog and art gallery at L. Risor.

 If you would like to take part in FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, 
these are the guidelines:

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.
*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art on Linky tools.
*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.
* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.
(We artists need to encourage each other!)
* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Bootz The Cat - Goodbye Dear Girl


Friday morning our darling Bootz fell ill and was gone in a matter of hours.  My husband and I are still a little shell shocked.

A visit to the vet revealed Bootz The Cat had a collapsed lung and an enlarged heart, with only hours left to live.  Bootz did not show any symptoms of discomfort, until just a few hours before she died.  We  miss her with all our hearts.

We are grateful to have had her in our home for the short time she lived here.  This is a sketch of our dear Bootz--I will be doing a full pen and ink based on this graphite sketch, then a colored version. 

Bootz The Cat rests peacefully beneath the bird bath--I am sure she must be delighted.  Though she was an indoor cat, one of her chief delights, besides my husband and myself--was to watch birds through the office window.

Monday, January 17, 2011

Yehaw! Eagles and Snarling Lions



These are ACEO cards which I made for my Sissy Clytie, Niece Victoria, Mum and Dad.  You will have to guess which went to whom.  (grin)

I will be away from my desk next week, so will not be able to put up FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, however, I'll be back the following week, so stay tuned!

Have a wonderful week, everyone!

Friday, January 14, 2011

Love at First Sight - Guest Heart Thursday

No hidden hearts today!  They are in plain sight.  As you can see, these two are in love.  This ACEO was inspired by Bootz the Cat.   In real life, as I type these words, Bootz is lounging across the corner of my desk, her head resting on the phone book like a pillow.  Bootz is a Ragdoll.  She isn't even full grown, yet sports a 14-inch tail.  Her body is 16-inches long.  Add those together, with her considerable muscle and girth--she's quite a girl!

Bootz the Cat fills our life and home with laughter.  How grateful we are for this loving little, er humongous roommate!

For more heart art, photography and altogether fabulous heart stuff from around the world, visit Clytie at Random Hearts for Guest Heart Thursday.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #18

Some of you have asked about the Name "FAT Tuesday."  It is merely a clever acronym my sweet Sis and I came up with for Featured Art Tuesday! 

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT Tuesday) Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.  
I hope you will join in the fun!


J. Stephen Hunter is one of my favorite artists.  He is incredibly imaginative and creative, as you will see when you look at the various mediums he uses.  Not only does he paint light in a way I've never seen before, but he creates whimsical clocks, beautiful things out of leaves and is a gifted photographer.  I have met this gentle, brilliant teacher in person.  He has inspired my heart in every area of my own art.  

He writes, "…I love being an artist.  I know I am one because the voices in my head all come from my right brain! Creativity is my adrenaline so I'm continually doing new things and avoiding repetition. I hope I never get pigeon-holed into “this is what I do.”

To see more of J. Stephen Hunt's wonderful art, visit Right Brain Reader

I have the lovely privilege of knowing this artist personally.  Amber Day is a self-taught artist, who's beautifully detailed watercolors are exceptional.  She constantly surprises me with her imagination and wit.  She makes me laugh, yet there is often an interesting pathos to be found in her art.  There is a whimsical quality to her work which greatly inspires me.  You can find Amber's collectible artwork for sale on Ebay under animaegirl! I own a few pieces of her work, so I feel especially blessed!

Of herself, Amber simply writes, "I am a stay-at-home Mom, artist, and author.  I've been happily married for 12 years now (we are still on our honeymoon).  I'm a life long Oregonian and love the greenery and mountainous landscape of this state!"

You can see more of Amber's charming artwork at Doodles by Amber Day.



Bill Ross is new to me.  I LOVE his hilarious cartoons.  They make me laugh and his concepts are brilliant.  I hope to see more of this artist's inspiring work!  

Bill writes,  "I was... fortunate to make the brilliant decision to move to Nashville, Tennessee, the greatest city on the planet. I know, that's a debatable assessment of Nashville, but I really, really like it here. I'm convinced that if I could sing, play an instrument, or were good looking, I could be a country music star. Till then, I make my living drawin' funny pictures, and painting rectangular paintings."

To see more of Bill Ross's humorous artwork visit Bill Ross Draws.  



Melinda Lincoln-Napoletano is one of the most thoughtful, inspiring individuals I've had the pleasure of knowing.  Her eclectic pieces are a study in contrasts--her poetry is moving and her thoughts are profound.

She writes, "I still believe in magic and dreams and that I am the one in charge of creating my own reality. This is a very magical time of year and I absolutely refuse to let anyone destroy that for me. This next year will be a time of growth for me....of making dreams come true and accomplishing goals....of determination and hard work...of changes.....and to be honest...I am tired of waiting around for my life to sort of happen on its own....I gotta make whatever happen happen if I want it to....so look out 2011!"

To  be utterly inspired, visit Breathe.


I found Rosie Rowe in my search for inchys.  They are tiny detailed one-by-one inch drawings--Rosie's are exquisite!  However, once I'd lost myself in her blog, I found even more treasure.  She is a very creative lady.  One of my favorites is the piece I found above.  What a beauty!  And how very inspiring.   

Rosie writes, "...the more I write, the more occurs to me and I lose myself in the page. I don’t have time at the moment to set aside proper time for art journaling. I sit with a tray on my lap to support my French Kitty book, a glue stick, my printouts, scissors and a couple of clear tubs which hold my most used pens and pencils, my tin of Neocolour Brights II and a watercolor brush."

To see more of Rosie's fabulous work, visit Altered Art & Stuff.

If you would like to take part in FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, 
these are the guidelines:

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.
*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art on Linky tools.
*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.
* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.
(We artists need to encourage each other!)
* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

 

Monday, January 10, 2011

Amber Kitty

This was a Christmas gift for a dear friend of mine, Amber.  She is one of the sweetest people I know, and a wonderful artist as well.  You can see more of Amber's amazing artwork at Doodles by Amber Day.

You can also find Amber's collectible artwork for sale on Ebay under animaegirl!

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Heart of Joy - Guest Heart Thursday

When I think of hearts I am more often feeling joy, rather than heart ache--though that is a real part of having a heart in the first place.  I am so grateful for joy.  For the beauty of friendship's smile.

For more heart art, photography and altogether fabulous heart stuff from around the world, visit Clytie at Random Hearts for Guest Heart Thursday.


Tuesday, January 4, 2011

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #17

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT Tuesday) Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes all types of art mediums, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.  

Valerie Greeley is an incredible illustrator and textile designer. As you can see by the piece above, her work is exquisitely detailed and absolutely lovely.  I am a longtime fan and am deeply inspired by this amazing artist who has a passion for pattern and creating books from start to finish--that includes illustration, decoration, printing and binding!  Since I've become acquainted with Valerie--I've made a few books from start to finish myself. 

Of the piece featured above Valerie writes, “I choose this new illustration to start off the year, I have brought the lemons, you will find hot water in the pot, now you need to add some honey, stir well with the spoon provided and help yourself to a piece of cake!"

To see more of Valerie's wonderful artwork visit Acornmoon.
  
 
I was fascinated by Rebeca Trevino's incredible box art.  I especially loved the one featured above.  She says she has been making boxes most of her life--even as a little girl.  Her description of herself as a child artist is charming.  Each box is beautifully crafted--each has a unique personality and message. 

Rebeca writes, ". . .   As each box emerges, it develops its own personality and strength.  At the heart of my work is the absolute need to recycle things, to rescue stuff that has been forgotten or thrown away.  In a sense the “stuff” gets reborn, it gains new meaning, a new career.  The materials I use seem to have a sadness to them.  I love taking unwanted items to create new images so people can see their own story. Each box is absolutely one of a kind.”

To see more of Rebeca's wonderful boxes visit Obtainium Art.

 
Patsy, a wonderfully creative collage and scrapbook artists lives in the Philippines.    I was totally fascinated and inspired by her journal--I've featured one of the pages above.  Each page is a study in fascination.  I absolutely LOVE her artwork and feel inspired to start a journal of my own, such as she has featured on her blog.

Patsy writes, “When I get home from work, I stay in my craft room and make collages, scrapbook layouts, ATCs, and think of ways to re-use things normal people would throw away."

To see more of Patsy's marvelous journal art, visit HeARTworks.
 
 
I was totally captivated by Samantha Marshall's twisted wire jewelry.  As you can see by the lovely necklace pictured above, her work is so intricate, it boggles the mind.  I want to sit and stare each piece--wondering how she was able to create such beautiful things.  She creates Artist Trading Cards.  Her tiny paintings are also quite wonderful.

Samantha writes, I really love all sorts of art and at the moment I really enjoy making ATCs and jewellery. I am starting to get back into drawing as well, after 20 years of not doing any!!!  I love my job as a teacher and I am so lucky to be able to teach in many different areas in Western Australia. I am teaching in the far north-east of Western Australia at the moment and it's spectacular!!!!  I am so lucky to have a wonderful family-my daughters and my husband are a constant source of joy and inspiration.”

To see more of Samantha's intricately eclectic jewelry and artwork, visit Art Junket
 
 
Patricia Chapman's art  made me laugh--as you can see she has a tremendous sense of humor.  The piece above is called Power Hungry.  (grin)  Each of her one-of-a-kind pieces evoke strong emotions in me.  I was charmed.  I was amazed.  I was inspired.

Patricia writes, “I create assemblage and collage art using found objects and found images, text, and a large measure of humor. I draw my subject matter from life, love, and other impossible situations.”

To see more of Patricia's humorously creative artwork visit Assemblosity.
 
 If you would like to take part in FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, 
these are the guidelines:

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.
*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art on Linky tools.
*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.
* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.
(We artists need to encourage each other!)
* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Springtime Winds - Guest Heart Thursday

I know winter has just begun, but the girl inside my heart longs for the breath of Springtime Winds.  Here in Oregon we have had, even for us web-footers, more than our share of rain so far.  In the event of a soggy winter without much hope for snow, I find myself already longing for spring with its fragrant flowers and green leaves.

Hence, I finished drawing this bit of Springtime just this morning.  With this bit of spring--my heart is happy again!  If you look closely you will find some hidden hearts--how many can YOU find?  Happy New Year everyone!

For more heart art, photography and altogether fabulous heart stuff from around the world, visit Clytie at Random Hearts for Guest Heart Thursday.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #16

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT Tuesday) Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes all types of art mediums, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.  


This wonderful white on black drawing is by Jim Bumgarner, a new artist I've just recently discovered.  What amazing work he does. I felt so inspired by this drawing of John Lennon.  I think I'm going to have to give this technique a try! This drawing is a part of The Sketchbook Project.  I had never heard of this particular project, but it sounds like an interesting idea!

Jim writes, "I found "The Sketchbook Project" online and my vanity got the best of me. The project is one where participants enter their sketchbooks into the Brooklyn Library where they will be barcoded, scanned and entered into their permanent collection." 

To see more of this wonderful artist's work visit Sketches & Stuff.
 .
Chloe is the artist who made these beautiful colorful beads.  They are made of felt!  I was so fascinated with the idea of felt beads--this is something I must look into now.  This multi-talented artist has a wonderful blog featuring all the things she creates--including drawing and sewing!  What a creative lady she is!  I have thoroughly enjoyed this dear lady's blog.

Chloe writes, "I've been really keen on working with felt of late, and have been intrigued by the idea of creating 3D structures with it. I started off by experimenting with some felt beads today, not sure what I'll do with these, they'll either end up as jewelery or in a piece of work. They were great fun to do!"

To peruse this lovely art site visit Slightly Triangle.


Recently my talented and creative Sister Clytie created a set of ACEO cards depicting the 12 days of Christmas.  

The drawing above is my favorite of Clytie's eclectic and marvelous set of cards.  I love the dancing lady trees--they are so ethereal and lovely to my eyes.  My sweet Sister is one of my greatest inspirations.  She is one of the most beautiful, creative people I know.  Clytie is not only my sister (oh, lucky me!) but she is one of my very very best friends.  

Sissy writes, "Each work I show here is made from GENUINE graffiti, trash, recycled wallpaper, and found treasures...I have never felt like an artist before - until now."

To see more of Clytie's intriguing artwork, visit Random He'Art'work


I fell in love with Geninne's artwork and adore her relationship with her sewing machine.  I can relate!  This multi-media artist is well worth watching!  Her whimsical pieces are inspiring and make me smile.

Geninne writes, "Lola is my beautiful new Singer sewing machine…  I named her Lola because it's what I would've named a daughter if I had one ;)  My other machine died (R.I.P.) from a fall a few months ago…The machine cover I had made for it didn't fit Lola so I had to make her a new one :)  I dyed a yard of natural canvas into a military green color that I love mixing olive green, black & a little bit of brown store bought fabric dye.  I cut patchwork birds our of 100% wool felt and attached them using blanket stitch with my favorite stash of vintage crewel wool…"

To see more of this lovely artist's work, visit  Geninne's Art Blog.

Hazel is another artist new to me.  As you can see from the piece pictured above, she uses stamps and ordinary items to create beautiful things.  I felt so inspired visiting her web page!  Isn't this altered flower and book cute?!

Hazel writes, "The book was a bit fiddly to make, but worth it to me. The ends of the pages are cut from my book and sized to fit inside the matchbox cover. They were gilded so that they would blend in with the front of the book, which is solid with 'pretend' pages. There was a gap between the two stacks of end pages which was big enough to take the peg doll. Then I made a book cover as I would for a real book. It even opens!"

To see more wonderfully creative artwork by Hazel, visit But Is It Art?

 If you would like to take part in FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, 
these are the guidelines:

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.
*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art on Linky tools.
*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.
* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.
(We artists need to encourage each other!)
* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.



Saturday, December 25, 2010

Merry Christmas!

This is my rendition of the Ghost of Christmas Present, a profound character found in the story of Scrooge.  He is such a jolly fellow.  I adore the story and I have a copy of just about every movie made featuring Scrooge--with the exception of Mr. Magoo.

This drawing has no pen and ink lines--it was done entirely with Prismacolor pencils.  Of course, my Beloved posed for this piece--and every time I look into those clear blue eyes?  (sigh)  Well, my heart starts beating faster!

Merry Christmas, Everyone!