Inspiration

Where Do You Find Inspiration?

Whether it be in a particular color palatte; an antique photograph; a found object; the way the warm autumn light plays its magic; the formation of a beautiful succulent; learning something new; being challenged by a friend; a holiday; a visit to farmer's market or antique faire; a good read; or a walk in nature -- we are surrounded by inspirational moments everyday if we allow ourselves to be open to it.

During the last few weeks, I have gradually cleaned out my studio.  Going through every drawer, every container and every nook and cranny, I discovered I have a plethora of supplies that I am not currently using.  As a result, I decided to share some of my goodies with you and created what I am calling my "Inspiration Kits".  Each kit contains a selection of fabric, antique cabinet card wrapped with trims and ribbon, a tea-dyed shipping tag full of vintage/antique buttons; and French ephemera.  Each kit features a different color and is wrapped in a clear bag sealed with ephemera, torn silk fabric, vintage velvet leaves and a tea-dyed gift tag.  Perfect for the holidays!  Take a look in my Etsy store to see if any of them appeals to your sense of inspiration.

Learning Something New

Inspiration can come as we learn new techniques and surround ourselves with other creative spirits.  There is still room in "Queen For A Day" and registration is still open.  I will be team teaching this weekend class again with my dear friend, Riki Schumacher February 26 and 27 here on the beautiful central coast of California. 

Students will learn to etch; cut, shape and form sheet metal; cold joining; basic soldering with a micro torch and basic wire wrapping.  You will make your very own shadow box to showcase a found object of your choosing.

You can't be "Queen for a Day" without your crown or a box to keep your treasures.  A lot of you have seen these amazing embellished boxes that Riki has featured on her blog.  She is actually going to share how she created this fabulous crown.  Yes, you will be fabricating this crown structure yourself and enhancing it with jewels.  A lot of the supplies for this workshop will be supplied so the student supply list will be minimal.  Just show up and let us pamper you. See the flyer under "Teaching" in my right hand sidebar. Space is limited.  You may contact me via email:  belladonna1351@charter.net.

Being Challenged

Sometimes we are prodded by friends to take on a creative challenge.  My dear friend, Diane Cook has done just that.  She has not only challenged me but all of you as well.  Check out the information regarding this challenge HERE on the Brass Bouquet blog.  Okay I know I am a little late in sharing this with you as Diane asked for entries to be sent to her by Nov. 30....however, you can still take the challenge yourself.

No matter where you find your inspiration, not only in your artwork but your personal life as well, keep in mind that you, yourself, are the greatest piece of art work you will ever create. 

"I like to think of myself as an artist, and my life is my greatest work of art.  Every moment is a moment of creation, and each moment of creation contains infinite possibilities.  I can do things the way I've always done them, or I can look at all the different alternatives, and try something new and different and potentially rewarding.  Every  moment presents a new opportunity and a new decision.  What a wonderful game we are all playing, and what a magnificent art form...." ~Shakti Gawain~

Tootles

Diana