Things I like

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Make Mine Mini Reader Challenge

Yesterday I finished the submission to the Cloth, Paper Scissors reader challenge due Januar 4 and uploaded it today. I have one more project to get done this month, and then it's off to find something else to do! My New Year's resolutions include slowing down a bit. I will really, really try!
For some reason, Blogger has laid her on her side.... even though the original is not like that. Oh, well. I have named her "Delta Dawn" because she reminds me of Delta Dawn, waiting for the fiance who never shows up...

Monday, December 24, 2012

The Sketchbook Project 2013

I have chosen to participate in the Sketchbook Project for 2013, and it's a good thing! It is the last one that will be a traveling exhibit in the manner they have done it. My book is nearly done. It consists of a 34-page journal/sketchbook that is 5x7 in size, and will be a part of a library of thousands of others, available eventually in a permanent library in Brooklyn. I've never even been to Brooklyn! I began the book thinking I would just sketch, zentangle and what-not, but as I have been getting more and more into art journaling, I found the book evolving into a narrative of the year. Of course it contains my portraits of nameless women (and I am trying to learn to draw happier faces) but it also includes my elation at the President's re-election, my sadness at losing my ten-year-old Pomeranian, and includes a tribute to the 20 children in Connecticut. That sketch is also included here. As I end this year (and complete this book) I am consolidating as much of my web activity as I can, and closing the Etsy store. I really want to focus on making art.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Happy Solstice....

Now that we have apparently survived the passage into a new era of some sort, I am making big plans for the coming year. Or perhaps better described as making small plans. I really resolve to try and slow down a bit . The first change is that I will be closing the Etsy store, and de-emphasizing my retailing. I will no doubt keep making stuff, however. I have started a local meet-up group for art journaling, and offer classes for a very small fee including supplies. Journaling, particularly art journaling, is excellent therapy for anyone of any age and I am sold on the activity. The time of the New Year has always been for me a quiet time to reflect, and sometimes to be amazed at the changes in my life during the year just past, and to marvel at the possibilities to come. And at my age, to be ever aware of abilities as well as limitations. I do enjoy sewing from time to time, and am finding pleasure in fiber arts, painting my own fabrics for use in quilting. I have just finished two large quilts but I expect to put more focus on small ones for wall decor, and will share photos from time to time. I have learned a lot from books, such as those by Rebekah Meier, and more on quilt art from Rayna Gillman. Happy 2013, everyone.