Artistic Musings

Getting Organized

2011-11-18T22:07:00.000-08:00

Tonight I buckled down and started looking at my finances and what I have and haven't done artistically in sales this year. First let me explain - I have done hardly anything to make or push any kind of sales. Everything I have currently is sort of on automatic pilot - a couple things on Etsy, some images on a public forum on Cafe Press, and my very outdated webpage - of which I'm not even certain which email it's supposed to send to if people have questions *blush* Alot of cleaning needs to be done to at least give a fresh start to the remainder of this year, and the beginning of next year.

I sat down and hand wrote all the various things I want to (and need to) keep a record of. I got out an archaic 3 ring binder with tabs and paper. I realize that the computer is more efficient - but there is something fun about having a tangible book to play with and decorate and .. well - be artistic with as well as logical. Then I started looking at the sites i do play on and started recording everything down in pen on paper. Somehow seeing it written before me kind of made it hit home - this is real. A dream I started back in 2004, getting a fresh start. It's exhilarating!

Now that I see what I have done, it's time to sit down and actually set out my goals, battle plan, and things I need to get done, and a realistic time frame to get them done. I also need to take note of the things I need to spend money on, how much and how to save for it. This is an effort in focus and will for me - I am distracted by anything shiney and can easily loose my focus for a week at a time if I don't keep myself focused. Thus why a tangible notebook I have to look at, touch and play with every day can make a world of difference :P I might even scrap book, and collage the battle plan to allow the two sides to have a say (right brain left brain) - I'm just pleased as punch to be making steps this far into what I want to do.

Ultimately the plan is to get to where I am creating an hour a day - something, anything, for friends, for myself, for the sites - doesn't matter - creating for creatings sake - I can put a name and a place to it when I'm finished. Just get myself to the page, and get those creative juices flowing. I have alot to say artistically, written, and a little of both.

It may seem silly to write all this down and make it public, but I share it both for myself, and anyone wanting to get started with their own stuff. A historical journal if you will - to look back on, and learn from, and share.

Productive night

2011-11-17T21:23:00.001-08:00

I am so pleased with tonight. I made alot of progress on my battle plan, and some real forward movement into the future. I still have quite the to do list, but at the top of that is to get to bed at a reasonable time so I can hit it again in the morning. There is nothing standing in my way anymore from seriously pursuing what I want to do, and what I believe I can do. The sky is the limit and now is the best time to begin. I have had so much on hold for so long - I'm just busting at the seams to get ready and start making this real. There are no rules - I can make, draw, sculpt, create anything I like as long as I have the supplies. I don't have to stick to one particular thing - it's fluid right now. The more I do the more I'll find my style and my flavor in what I like.

It's very exciting, and worth every ounce of belief in myself. This is for me, for my boys, for our future together.

A step - a breath - a beginning

New Start

2011-11-17T15:34:00.000-08:00

It's now November, and alot of changes have occurred in my life. I haven't glanced at or even looked at my website in nearly a year - not really looked at it. It's time to clean house, add new artwork, and delete old outdated stuff from it's hallowed pages. I have new friends with lovely websites that I would love to link, and I refuse to put their work on an old outdated website that has enough dust to be a health hazard. it's time to rebuild, rethink, and believe again. I have alot of work to do - so I will keep this short and add updates as I go along.

Cheers :D

Childrens Books

2011-06-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

So in the self help book Artist Way it starts you dreaming and writing what you really want. You work through projects and ideas to break down blocks and fears and hesitations that tend to get into the way. I have read this book 4 times - once all the way through, twice to chapter 10 and then stopped for one reason or another. I didn't believe as firmly as I do these days. The book helped me get half way until I made some drastic changes and sought out therapy. These changes have been hard, but I'm better and stronger for it - and am so very glad I sought out therapy to help with everything

All that is just part of what's going on right now. My excitement stems from the revival of an old dream. A set of early reader children's books I came up with before my kiddos were born. The idea is for me to both write and illustrate these books - every single one. The ideas have been rattling in the back of my mind wanting to see the light of day. I think it's time to start the actual living breathing portion of the Dr. Frakenstein piecing together - wonder if I could make a laboratory artistic space just for fun he he he. There will be alot of research put into these, as well as alot of time into the art and writing that will make them really something to treasure. The ideas are a teaching concept for young children about the world around them. I don't want to say too much because it would spoil the surprise - however I do plan to post pictures, scans and such that won't spoil the surprise but show what I'm up to. This is a beginning, one I feel I've waited a long time for. No more waiting - time for the doing :D

I cannot believe how beyond jazzed I am about this!! YAY! :D

more to come .... :D

June

2011-06-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

The house is quiet. It is strange still not having my kids full time. I thought I would find myself endlessly creating with wild abandon. That hasn't been the case. In fact most of the time I spend the time reflecting on what makes me tick. I have told my therapist I am my own best subject - I honestly mean it. I have turned my life inside out and backwards in my mind in the attempt to seek a healthy mentality. My life isn't that different from most people - we all have our trials and our tribulations. We all face challenges in a myriad of ways and live the life we've been given in the ways we see fit.

What I'm finding as the days pass and I get used to being on my own is that creativity still runs through my veins as strongly as ever. It is presenting itself in different ways though. I write alot more, I've reinvented my wardrobe, My arrangements are getting better and quicker. My jewelry is taking on a whole new flavor, and I have a collection of shoes (yes this is odd for me :P ) I seem to be my creative canvas for the moment. There is nothing wrong with that - I imagine everyone goes through phases where they totally overhaul themselves from the ground up. I rather like the spicier sassy me that is emerging. I ponder when I totally embrace my self confidence and strength what I will be like. I'm not so worried about the end result as I am enjoying the journey. The feel of new fabrics in my fingers and upon my skin, the sight of shoes that actually entice me (still very weird - I've always been a tom boy), all of a sudden I'm ooing and awing over corsets, steam punk Victorian era clothing, and chokers - I adore chokers. My old wardrobe has found itself on the racks of the local thrift store, and I hope it makes someone else happy. Theatre tickets, sampling new cuisine, and finding music that appeals is also a new focus. It's alot of fun :P

I do however feel I'm at a point where I need to start showing up to the page every day again. I have several projects that have sat on the back burner while I found my footing. Some I've promised to others, and some I have always wanted to do. Time to buckle down and see what appears on my page as I allow the creativity to take hold and really pull my focus into the projects. It's been a long times since I lost myself in a picture without fear of being interrupted. Rather excited at the prospect this really is what my new life is like. When the boys are here we play and play hard, when they go to bed I dance. Now it's time to switch things up a bit. Time to put the music on and let the rhythm guide my hand and paint and artwork.

I was talking to a dear friend of mine today about reconnecting and connecting with artists of like minds. I am starting to reach out and embrace other creatives in engaging conversations. Support and encouragement comes from without as well as within. There is nothing quite like an artist circle cheering each other on to make the creativity flow with more confidence.

Tiny steps - one at a time. Keep moving forward!! Keep breathing. :D and absolutely show up to the page and let the creativity guide the chosen tools of making :D As a very dear friend of mine reminded me - Leap and the Net will Appear! Serendipity will make the path smoother, and creativity really does like to breathe and live in new creations.

Yay - it's time to play!! :D

Magic

2011-02-27T20:15:00.000-08:00

As time passes and I learn to live on my own and face my own fears of being alone I find that there is a tsunami of emotions I've not allowed myself to feel. These emotions have stood in the way of my artwork and free creation. They have stopped me with guilt from throwing myself fully into a moment to feel it entirely. My artwork comes from my passions, my heart, my soul, my whimsy and my desire to explore the unseen. I have allowed others to stop me and I have stopped myself from allowing that to shine - to really come forth and present itself in the form of images, written words, and physical representation.
As I release the emotions of guilt, fear, trepidation and pain I am starting to see a whole new landscape before me. One where magic exists in the pages of my sketch books, where powerful landscapes and figures jump out of my daydreams and want to show themselves to the world decked out with their weapons, armor and various trinkets.
Among my insane amounts of blank paper I also seem to have collected quite the library of how to books. How to draw dragons, robots, faeries, clothing, perspective, and a whole array of cartoon and caricatures. I also have painting books, illumination and calligraphy books, quilting, sewing, and cookbooks. My passions have shown their way by the collections I have kept. I seem to have hidden troll dolls, dragons, mermaids, faeries, all sorts of shiney glass, candle holders of various shapes and sizes, and various odds and ends in the nooks and crannies of my home in various figurines, trinkets and pictures that show very plainly that I am a whimsical artist. I may have been hiding, but I still shone with the treasures I brought home.
Apparently I am not as squashable as I before assumed. I shine brightly to myself now - and it's baffling how I couldn't see it before.
I embark on new adventures now - in my own mind and heart - and I have my pencil poised to capture the various critters, peoples, and landscapes I encounter. I'm very excited to see what flows upon my canvases now - only my own imagination is the limit!
I know, most likely, I will still hit road blocks and challenges. However, my stride is more confident, my heart is thumping loudly at the prospect that I have a whole new world to explore!! Time to see what the future holds without trepidation - carpe diem as they say!! :D

New Life

2011-02-11T22:25:00.000-08:00

So much has changed since my last post, and yet in a way nothing has changed. I am still seeking balance within myself. I am still trying to figure out what life and living is. The one answer I have found to be true is that I wasn't being true to myself. Due to that real failing towards myself I couldn't be much for anyone else around me. The past couple of months I have made tough decisions for the betterment of all. Some have called those decisions selfish - but if they had walked in my shoes and saw and felt what I felt they may or may not have made the same decisions. I don't posses any mind other than my own - and therefore cannot make any decisions beyond those I feel are the best for myself and my children at the time the decision is made.

As a result of those decisions I sit in my own place, an apartment I now call home filled with light and color. There has been a series of emotional battles fought upon these floors - all within my own mind and heart. At first I could not touch pencil to paper without tears. I could not gaze upon my paints without fear. My canvases sat blank as they have for the past several years, and my insane amounts of pads of paper sat unopened in the corner of my room. It was a total shock to see just HOW many art supplies I had collected in the attempt to prepare to create something, anything. I have been hoarding and stashing supplies for years - waiting. Every clearance sale and garage sale was the opportunity to collect more, and they would go into piles that would collect dust until the next clearance sale. It's mind boggling actually.

I did create - I have a website filled with finished and framed images. Every image was a tough battle to pursue an image that showed itself on the page. To chase it's outline and details and nail them down before fear took over, or doubt, or life got to busy or any amount of excuses that threatened to make the image just another half finished unfinished piece. I have boxes filled with such. I have portfolios filled with experiments and doodles and some finished pieces too. The attempt to show the world I really am an artist, and once in awhile I would add a new image to show progress into that dream without actually pursuing it with the heart and soul I truly wanted to. Don't get me wrong - every finished piece, every sketch, every attempt at something new added to my arsenal of skills and knowledge. I don't regret a single line or paint stroke. What I regret is that I only partially half lived the dream I wanted to and let fear and doubt drown my attempts so many times.

This brave new world is frightening - odd - when I was a teen there was nothing that could stop me from conquering anything that crossed my path. Now I fear the future due to it's uncertainties. I hope to embrace my younger views with my older and more experienced knowledge. To start being true to myself, my dreams, my wishes and hopes. I don't want to be afraid to find out just what I can do anymore, nor do I want to make excuses for why I am not drawing an hour a day. Those are goals I have written down and taped to my bathroom mirror. It's a start.

I have drawn - dragons seem to be filling the pages in my sketch book. Some cute, some fierce, some just basic. Regardless of their basic structure - I find the fierceness they carry, their humor, and ageless wisdom, somehow comforting. I may not be able to predict life tomorrow, a week from now or a year from now. I can however plan to draw as many dragons as I can fit unto the pages of my sketch books. Learning bone structure, muscle structure and the intricacies that they hold. When I get bored with that I will move onto whatever catches my fancy. I have commissions that have waited years to be filled - another goal I have is to find the faith to finish them with such beauty and grace that the wait is worth it.

When I started this journal it was intended to record the progress I made as an artist. To show those that read it that I am as human as they are and that if they wished to pursue their dreams it was entirely possible. Not only possible, but worth every step toward that dream. I hope to make that happen now with this journal. It is not intended for personal jabber about the drama's of life - but instead for the journey I take as an artist. My successes, failures, attempts and experiments. I am just one woman - with an insane amount of paper begging to be turned into something more fun than the polar bear in a snowstorm look. I have whimsical images begging to be brought into the light to play with the viewer. I have serious images that may tug at the heart. I have romantic and nude art I wish to present as beautiful and tasteful - if not a tad on the playful side. It's time to begin, stop making excuses, and see if I can't jump into the drivers seat of this dream I've held since I was a child - to be an artist.

3am

2010-06-23T01:55:00.000-07:00

Here I sit looking at my computer while my family sleeps. My mind is going in circles over the movies I've just watched. The Book of Eli and then followed by Pandorium. I can't help but feel there is a personal message I'm just barely touching upon. A concept that hasn't quite sunk in that I'm missing. In the Tarot deck there are several cards where the person is chained or tied up - and the chains are broken. They are choosing to stay in their own paradigm out of fear to reach out to another life, or lifestyle. To break out of the "norm" into a happier life. I am certain that is what I have been doing. In The Book of Eli he is on a path of faith, of ultimate faith. Somewhere along the line I've lost that and just lived the life by going through the motions instead of REALLY living my life. In Pandorium perception twists the mind and causes so many issues for those that are awake on the ship. If they had just made different choices, learned to step outside of the prison they saw themselves in, everything would have been different.

My ramblings are an attempt to find out what I am seeking - where I need to go and what I need to do. I am an artist, I am learning to be a florist, I am a mother and I've been what my perception of a wife was - although I am certain at this point that perception is rather flawed due to my up bringing. I have lived with our friends at a distance - not to keep them at bay - but because that was our lifestyle. I miss my friends. I miss barbecues and hanging out. I miss dancing and playing - and water balloon fights and camping and so many things that I used to call normal. Now we just live in our four walls - interacting only when reality deems we leave the house. This is not living - and my lack of artwork has been a clear sign to me that I'm not happy. I'm not depressed - I just have to break the bonds of my illusionary prison and reach out to humanity in an attempt to find like minds.

Outside this bubble I live within is a world full of life. It's time I joined in the quest for purpose, friendship and living. I do mean join too, with my head held high, a smile upon my lips and a heart filled with fun. I am done hiding - to the friends that know me, and those getting to know me - come out, come out wherever you are - it's time to play :D

Middle of June

2010-06-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

Life has taken a loop de loop course and lead me directly back here. Funny how that happens. I am now working full time as a florist in a little floral shop inside a grocery store. It has been so good to get out of the house and learn a new trade. I have found that as long as I'm working with my hands I am happy. There are so many things to make and do and create!!

I am signed up for and preparing to start an 11 week course in Floral design starting July 5, 2010. I am so excited. I am doing this for several reasons - among them a pay raise, and more knowledge to pull from in regards to what I'm doing. I also just want to be certified :D It is expensive to take, but not nearly as expensive as the bachelors degree that I am also planning on taking as soon as I have the first semesters monies saved up. I'm still oscillating on the actual degree. I would love to be a full on Graphic artist/illustrator - but I also enjoy web design. We'll see where it lands. Either way I'm going to aim for a minor in business.

I have not had alot of time to paint - but after finding a couple of image blogs I plan to start posting my doodles and art pieces as I do them. I want to focus on the human form for the moment - people are so fascinating I want to be skilled in drawing them :D That and I would love to focus on learning how to do beautiful and successful pin up artwork. There are so many things I want to draw well - the list is endless. Luckily I have plenty of time to explore many different avenues that will hopefully lead to beautiful works of art.

Signing off for now - have much to do before I have to be at work this morning.

May the Muse of creativity inspire you!!

2010 - I made it!

2009-12-31T23:40:00.000-08:00

The first moments of the new year finds me in deep contemplation of my path as an artist. I think this year is the perfect time to start really pushing the envelope and see what I can do.

Saw Avatar with my family tonight to ring in the new year - it was perfect and beautiful and inspiring and wow - ooooh wow. The perfect way to ring in the new year.

Blessings to you all - may this year find you inspired, creating, and happy!

Drawing People

2009-12-15T18:47:00.000-08:00

So I'm a bit out of practice drawing people. A dear friend asked me to draw some images for her. I tried and had a hard time. My publisher and friend recommended "How to Draw Lifelike Portraits from Photographs" by Lee Hammond. It is an excellent book and helped a great deal in the techniques and tools needed to do what I was struggling with.

I had a book, the tools, and a fear in my gut that I wouldn't do well I couldn't get rid of. Through the year I have had many distractions some life made some self made. Yet the fear remained. I couldn't pin point it or even find it. I just knew every time I tried to draw the images something would go wrong and it would come out looking more like Frankenstein than the wonderful adorable children it was supposed to look like.

Yesterday my determination kicked in. I can do this, I know I can do this, I've done it before successfully - so what is the issue. Come hell or high water I decided I was going to tackle this project and figure out what the issue was and then successfully create it to the best of my ability.

I found the issue, I realized what was throwing me off finally - it was their smiles and the teeth. I was afraid of drawing teeth wrong. I kept making the mouths too small or the wrong angle. It was a puzzle that kicked in my own vanity. Funny the things that really kick off a series of fears and that ca stop a project dead in the water if you let it.

I am glad I figured it out - I now have two images looking at me with great smiles and bright eyes. I still have alot of work to do - but it was sooo worth doing and succeeding.

I can't wait to post it with the original pictures :)

The Drowning Woman

2009-10-31T07:44:00.001-07:00

A Poem by Christina Nordloh
written on Halloween 2009

I must have appeared
As a drowning woman
To those that saw me there
Floundering and gurgling
In the warm summer air
Upside down and backwards
a shadow of herself
Grasping at nothing
As I talked about saving myself
Kicking this way and that
A fool at best
From the shore
Those that could see
Knew my efforts were fruitless
In the shallows of the pool
Their shouts did no good
Nor did lectures or silence
For Floundering was my choice
Until something changed
This morn when I awoke
And placed my foot down
I found purchase on solid ground
and stood
The water only reaching my waist
Upon the empty shore
A sign did read
"Now pick a direction
and see where it leads!"

Passing of Time

2009-10-04T02:59:00.000-07:00

I woke with a start from a dream where I was 17 again. Yet I had all the memories from where I am now, and even a sketchbook of all the pieces I had created between now and then. It was a wild dream. It got me thinking of all the things I would change if I were to do it all over again - what would they be. Since I lack the time machine, or the ability to go backwards in time - I can only grasp what I would and can change from here. What do I want to be, as opposed to what I am allowing myself to be. Procrastination seems to be the theme for this year. Not on purpose - but as a side effect as I muddle through an ocean of emotions and thoughts.

I would love to say I have been drawing and creating every day. That my focus is on creating beauty that shines from within. In reality I have been growing and changing as a person, and realizing some of my dreams that I have let slip by over the years. I give my power to others and then make excuses when I don't take the reigns of my own destiny. It's not working lemme tell ya :P

Yesterday I saw a dream realized. A solid financial partnership between my local Art Guild and the Local Music Store. We installed artwork from 24 artists - and the place looks amazing. I recall the stress and anxiety as people had to shift their thinking to this new venue so quickly due to the circumstances. I recall the personal stress I went through trying to decide the right course of action. I am thankful that I listened to my heart - because I have a feeling this will be an amazing journey for the Music Store, the Art Guild, and myself. It feels like a beginning with some powerful after effects.

I can't change the past, I can't go back in time. However I can take what time I do have and truly make something with it.

As my Grandmother is laid to rest, and memories of my childhood echo back to me in waves of emotions and experiences. The things that are very clear are that I have loved deeply, I have daydreamed what I want to be when I grow up, I have let opportunities pass me by, and I am learning to live again. What better place to really start living than where I sit now.

Where has the time gone

2009-08-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

So were over half way through August and I recall having a blog of sorts.. *blushes* lol

I have been so busy of late doing a variety of events and things in my life. Paramount on that list is I have gone back to work as an art camp teacher. For those of you that know me personally, yes you were right - I love teaching art!! For those that don't know me well, you'd think so to if you saw me in person. I love what I do. the kids are fantastic, and what they make is fantastic. I work for a company called Academy of Art, we only use high quality materials, and college level criteria toned down so a 6 year old can understand. They gobble it up and create amazing pieces. I will post some images so you can see what my boys have done.

I have also been involved with my guild putting together what we call "Front Range Exhibit" This is a m0monumental event that includes kids and adults of all ages, who can submit one piece of artwork. This show is going to be fantastic!! I am excited to see all the pieces . See the way the registration goes is it's by mail - the first 110 I get are the ones that get into the show - artwork unseen. What they do goes in - as long as it's family friendly of course considering it will hang in the library for one month. The applications are already in - however - if your reading this - you are cordially invited to the reception on October 23rd, 2009 at the Phillip S. Miller Library from 6:30-8 to celebrate in the creations that hang there!! Please come join us.

On a similar note I am in a gallery at 240 s. Wilcox St. Castle Rock Colorado 80104 called On the Street Gallery. Our next reception will be September 19th, 2009 from 2-8. A drawing will take place with prizes awarded for those who guess "Where in Colorado" some of our pieces that hang in this show are - kids and adults alike can participate!

I just finished a piece that I will post here - a study on phoenix's - It doesn't have a title, but it is finished. It is the first of many.

Currently I am working on two commissions for a lovely lady - portraits. They will post to my website when they are finished.

Creatively - I'm so busy just going it's hard to recall where I've been. I have rocks to wrap in wire to raise money for our event, I have angels to make and put up on Etsy and Ebay. I have baby blankets made of fleece and flannel to make and post, and I have my family to care for. Just on the go go go!!

I hope this finds you creating!!

Summer Time

2009-07-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full swing. Fans and air conditioners running can be heard wherever you go. Children play in sprinklers, with water guns, and beg to stay up till the sun goes down at night. I remember these days, I recall the beauty and intensity of summer. The desire to submerge myself in crystal blue water that smelled of chlorine. The endless days of hide and go seek as the sun set into the horizon. I recall stolen kisses, and romance. So many adventures are had during the summer!! I sure hope cloud watching is still a favorite pastime. I'm learning how to go back to some of those things and be a kid again so that endless joy and whimsy can enter my artwork. The piece that has stolen my eye at the moment has those qualities I seek in my drawings. A message of hope, a bit of crazy fun, and the freedom to be an individual. I can't wait to show it, but it has a ways to go just yet. Seeing all the artwork on Deviant Art.com is definitely a draw to keep at the canvas and just keep going! I really love it here, and all the amazing creativity that lives so free upon these servers!

So my ice tea with lemon and I are going to explore the porch for fae, and watch the sun go down with my family, wishing all our friends could join us too

Illustration

2009-06-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

My dream has always been to be an illustrator. To make the images found in the enchanting coloring books that captured my imagination in my childhood. Faced with the ability to finally focus my pen, ink, pencil, or other chosen weapon I embark on a new journey to find my true calling. I find it wonderfully serendipitous that I find Deviant Art just as I'm about to jump off the cliff into the unknown world of fantasy and creativity. I have so many things I want to create, so many things I want to pursue. With the small blocks of time that riddle my day I hope to really push the creative flow and see where I am lead and where I end up. I hope to meet many sprites, goblins, giants, and every day people on my way into the recesses of my imagination. So today I begin by working on a beautiful commission I have the pleasure of creating.

Getting stuff done!

2009-06-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

I heard a wonderful quote today from an author I met today named Victoria Hanley. It's an excerpt from her book "Seize the Story" that just came out recently. The quote is "The more you use your imagination, the more it develops." After hearing that I drew the picture at the top of this page. I have found I'm getting more work done, and the reason for it is that I'm showing up to the page. I'm sitting down and dedicating time to work, and the results are surprising me. Every picture I get better, I find more techniques and ideas. My imagination seems to have taken hold and is leading the way to new horizons. I have no idea where this will lead, but I can feel my feet firmly on the path.

It feels awesome to let go of the fear and just create. I hope to have many more works under my belt soon. It's time to really kick it up a notch and follow my heart and my pencil.

I really love the image I'm working on right now. It's a commission piece of a dog a cat, and bird island in California. I really made it something to look at, and am seriously going to have to make a print to put in my own house!! I didn't know i could make a cat look so real - I've never tried. Nor did I know that planning out the composition like I did could make such a difference. New ideas, new concepts, and the creativity is soo awesome. If this is what it feels like to be wholly myself - I don't ever want to stop!

Finding the faith in myself has been a journey - one I plan to keep asking the question and finding the answers for the rest of my life. Each day brings a new morning with it a new chance to create something new and beautiful. It doesn't matter if they know my name down the block, in Paris, or wherever - what matters is that I keep creating.

Follow your dreams, find the faith - it's worth the trip!

Art Walk Art Talk

2009-06-12T07:12:00.000-07:00

So I'm lead chair of this event called Art Walk Art Talk that's happening in Downtown Castle Rock. I should have been writing about it for months so that this was updated with pertinent information about the event. But as I've been incredibly busy with real life and planning the event the reality of that slipped my mind. Details - 20 artists working live outside in downtown Castle Rock - surrounded by a 1950's car show. It should be fantastic - weather permitting (prays for good weather) The times for the show are from 10am - 4pm.

I haven't had the chance to draw any artwork for the show save for two very small images I plan to bring with me. I need to get my pencils out and really get going on my pictures. I have so much I want to do!! I can't wait to see the commissions I have to work on finished - I hope they are fantastic and the person requesting them is quite happy.

Time to get all the things I need to printed and ready to go for the show!

Cogs and Steampunk

2009-05-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

My journey into the world of steampunk has begun. I am truly inspired and fascinated with the possibilities of this concept and world. This particular piece displayed above was done in collaboration with a very very dear friend, and although it is truly an artistic piece and not of engineer detail - I love what I've created. I really want to explore more reflections and concepts. In this piece the reflections came from my imagination more than they did from a real piece - thus the more grain or weathered look to the cogs. I am aware that the teeth lean, and aren't all the same size. I kinda allowed the piece to come together as it were, and am pleased with the whimsical look to everything. For a first piece I am celebrating! I love the deep blue, and the engraving on the light silver attachment pieces. I really like how the face turned out, and had fun with the wings. The entire piece was a joy to put together, and I hope that future pieces will bring such passion and enjoyment to my world. This piece really held my attention, and allowed me to see where I could take things. I hope to find models, I hope to explore what's been done and further the field. I really want to know the ins and outs of steampunk, where it started and where it's headed. I personally want outfits I can actually wear to!! So much fun to be had!!

May inspiration strike you, hold you for ransom and show you the ways of passion and life!!

To draw or not to draw

2009-05-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

There is a common misconception that artwork can only be created during the throws of inspiration. That to write, draw, make music, or create in any fashion you have to have a muse sitting on your shoulder filling your heart with child like passion. The reality is that inspiration is awesome, it feels good - it feels like falling in love. I know few people who don't love that sensation, that excitement like Christmas morning when you start a new project, or have a new idea. The cold hard truth is that creation requires you show up to the page more than that initial burst of inspiration. That even when the chips are down, you have cold, the weather is wrong, and you feel like doing nothing - you still show up to the page. You make a line, you dare to loose yourself in the project. Sometimes it will click and hours will pass before you realize it, and other times it's like walking up hill through a stream during a thunderstorm. The point is - every motion you place into the project is a motion forward.

This topic. although something I understand intimately - is something I still struggle with. I have been known to "misplace" my sketchbooks when my heart feels threatened. To blame others or outside events for the reason I'm not drawing or making things. I have thrown artistic temper tantrums when I think I've ruined a piece. I'm human - no matter how alien I feel at times - I'm human. so I post this in hopes it will reach someone - to touch their heart. To understand that today - regardless of how it's going - is the perfect day to create and work on that project that sit's all dusty in the corner. No completed project that is seen by others feels alone or lonely - it inspires those that view it. Even if it's only to say "Hey - I think I could do that!!" and they go and create something of their own.

Thought for today - instead of waiting for the muse to speak - make it curious about what you are doing.

Why I love to do Demonstrations of my artwork

2009-04-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

I was recently at a Star Con convention and learned a bit more about the Steam Punk movement. I have to say an addiction has started, and ideas are flowing like crazy. I love the whole concept of "anything done by magic can be created and done by machines" I am not a heavily machines take over the world kind of person - I like my forests and my magic. But the concept has me enraptured!! I wish to play with the concepts and ideas, they've really grabbed my imagination and run. I was talking to a dear friend of mine and we discussed a picture - since I draw that's fairly natural - and we came up with a wonderful idea. So simple - yet incredibly complicated to draw. I have the under drawing complete at this point, and I am LOVING IT!! The whole concept is Steam Punk inspired. You are looking at the inner workings of a clock, with roman numerals as the actual numerical portion of the clock. You can see all the gears and springs and various other elements. Currently it's just a line drawing - but I believe it's one of the best ones I've ever created. There will be a hidden element in the picture you'll have to look for, and I don't want to spoil the surprise here. I had NO idea I would love drawing gears so much - gears and cogs and things that interact. Alot of my past work has been static - a single figure with a wonderful background. I can definitly still do that sort of work, but this whole engaging interaction artwork is amazing! I have SOOO much passion for this piece! I find it interesting to create, as well as look at - I myself as the viewer get lost in which way the cogs are going, and where it all takes place. I've never really been pulled so completely into my own artwork before - been entranced by what I'm drawing. *chuckles* I've found a style that suites me, and I can tell this is the first of many to come. It's taken me two days to get the concept drawing down, I am hoping that by the end of today I will have something to show for my work - it would be fantastic if the piece was finished - I know though that with all the reflections and shiny bits that many layers of pencil will be required for every square inch of the piece. I'm going to give my best though and see what happens. I am curious what the general public will think and how they will comment. That part I live for - negative non commital noises I ignore - not worth my time. But the truly "WOW" reactions I live for. If a child see's what I'm doing they are naturally drawn to the creative process - it would be awesome beyond words if all of a sudden refrigerators around Castle Rock were covered in cogs and wheels and things that move. My goal is to inspire, I claim no credit or fame - if you go out and create because you like what I've done - then I have done my job. I've simply passed the torch of my passion to create on to someone else and only good things come from that! Now the cool part is that it's infectious. If I create and inspire, and someone creates and then inspires - it moves down the line and creates a beautiful flow of creativity. I simply start the ball rolling and see what path it takes. I find unending joy when someone walks up to me and says "Hey - you know that demo you did way back when, I decided to do an experiment and this is what I came up with" I just LOVE that - I really do. Someone out there saw what I did, got inspired, created something and had the bravery and courage to approach me to show me what they created of their own volition! It's fantastic, you can see the beginning of a beautiful relationship with making things in it's starting phases. Even with the hesitation and questions in their eyes - it's a beginning - and I can guarantee it's a fantastic ride. My hope at that point is that they continue to share their work, continue creating - because at that point it's all them - and sooo beautiful. I will continue to push myself, to get myself out there and really focus on challenges. I will continue to grow, and change and experiment. I plan to for the rest of my life. I just hope I can touch and inspire as many souls as I can on the way - because everyone deserves the joy of a completed project they created on their own. Everyone also deserves a group of people around them that supports and encourages such endeavors. I know the concept is scary, because the piece comes frown within - but have the faith to pursue it. In the end either you've created a beautiful piece of artwork or you've thought about it - if you had a choice - which memory would you rather have! For me - the answer is definitely the memories of creating and finishing the piece!!

Go out there and make something!! I really truly would love to see it!!

Earth Day

2009-04-22T05:15:00.000-07:00

My children came bustling up to me yesterday yelling "It's Earth Day tomorrow MOM!!" They were so excited. I love that schools get involved and get the kids so excited. I saw children with artwork everywhere I went yesterday with paintings of their earth. I recall when I first became aware of Earth Day, and shared the news with my brother. That's when I started carrying trash bags in my pocket and collecting cans and cleaning up area's I happened to be in. I realized pretty quick that it was impossible for me to keep a field clean with all the trash people just let fly, but I was content to do what I could when I could. I still keep grocery bags in my pocket, I still collect cans and trash. My favorite part about that habit is that my children do to. I have lost count of the times both of my kids at one point or another have looked at me completely puzzled and asked "Mom why do people always trash the place up, why can't they just find a trash can?" I never have a clear answer other than to educate them to what it does. I have passed on a legacy that is part of who they are becoming, and by making Earth day fun for our kids we all do. Our earth is such a precious precious thing, it is the very reason we are all alive. Today I will contemplate how I can make a further difference in my home, life, and especially with my artwork.

Statement - Do something new to celebrate Earth Day!

Stalling

2009-04-17T03:34:00.000-07:00

3:02 the clock reads as I toss and turn in my blankets. My heart pounds in my throat, and no matter how I breath, position or lay, I can't seem to make it stop. It's that sheet soaked heart in the throat feeling you get from a nightmare that has successfully scared the hell out of you. Yet I can't remember a single image or thought. Just the constant pounding of my heart. My husband sleeps inches away and I dare not touch him for fear of waking him and enacting his on insomnia. I toss on my pink fluffy robe over my bare skin, it has been like a teddy bear comfort many times in these nighttime ventures. I meander to the kitchen to put water to boil. Hot cocoa is the cure for all middle of the night ills in my opinion. Although sleepy time tea would do me a world of good. I know not why my heart pounds, although I have suspicion. I just pray those I love are alright, and soundly sleep in their own warm blankets. A storm rages outside covering the world yet again in a blanket of snow - will spring never fully arrive.

The house is silent save for the random snuffle or snore, and of course the clickity clack of my keyboard as I steadily type along. There have been many changes in my life over the past month. Alot of old memories have been shared with a dear friend that has brought to life the old me that used to love life and hadn't yet been seduced by the droll hum drum of the daily grind that adults seem to forge their lives and imaginations into. Memories roll across my mind now, memories of dancing for one. I snagged my ipod, dusty from sitting on the shelf. Charged it up, and it has been a constant companion for two weeks now. The music plays, I sway and dance. I looked around the house to find it truly too cluttered to dance - so I cleaned up the basement to make a "dance floor" of sorts. Now my feet hurt, my legs burn, my breath comes in ragged gasps and glasses of water get tossed down my throat at regular intervals. I dance - dance to feel the music coursing through my veins. Dance to feel the magic of the world around me swirl and shift. I dance to exercise, to push myself to move. Finally I am moving and not sitting, I am creating with my body, sweat and breathing what I've dreamed of for years. A mix of ballet, jazz, erotic, ballroom, and pure my inventions flows from my feet and up through my fingertips. I imagine a world created by me all around, a world where magic is possible, and friends I can't see often are there existing and keeping me company. Somewhere along the line I lost my appetite - between eating to stay alive and dancing I've lost 13 pounds - I plan to loose much more through pure sweat if I can help it. It feels awesome to have energy again. I'm landing my spins better, my center of gravity is better - and I just feel better all the way around. A simple thing to dance, you simply move. Why then did it take me 17 years to get back to it - why did I wait till I was 33?? To be honest - it doesn't matter - the reality is I'm no longer waiting - I'm doing!

My art has suffered for the love of dance, images have come across my desk loosely and largely unplanned. A new me is emerging - one that believes in magic with a powerful love of music. I don't know who this new me is, but I like her. She's more daring, more courageous - more ready to take on the world as it were. She doesn't hide behind her covers or behind her hands. She sits up tall and straight and doesn't make excuses - or at least I'm learning not to. The old frumpy hum drum me is shedding her skin to reveal a beautiful real version of myself. I don't look at magazines at the corner market anymore = who cares what they look like in those tabloids - they are simply glorified barbies anyhow. They aren't me, they aren't going to stand over me and say "don't eat that, exercise more, take care of yourself" they are going to make barely fabric dresses look beautiful - you know the ones no real human can wear. So why bother, why let the "American Ideal" get me down. All it does is make me look less, feel less, and be less. I want to be more!! More me, more real, more alive.

5:00 am - that's what my computer reads as I type this sentence. Two hours it took for my heart to return to normal and for sleep to pull heavily on my lids. Another night of sitting and typing, another night where sleep eludes me. I wish I were out making memories right now - mmmm yummy :) For now though I think me and my sock feet are going to shuffle back to bed and see if my pillow feels more like a pillow than a sack of bricks.

Thought for the day = what would make you love life again??

Spring Rain

2009-04-12T02:39:00.000-07:00

Being I am of an imaginary fae like artist the spring rain has powerful reactions on my creativity. It brings forth the season of Spring, that most people associate with the fae. The blooming of flowers, the coming of the bee's, new gardens, and babies. There is just something powerfully magical about that truly first night rain storm. The sound of the silent snow is replaced by the pattering of millions of drops of water, and if were lucky the crack of thunder. The storm that awoke me this morning was of the pattering quiet kind, that drips down the windows and makes one think of warm blankets and hot tea. For me the sound of rain also has romantic properties. Something about that rhythm of the pattering droplets makes me want to dance, and be free. There are so many romantic comedies where a dash in the rain leads to that first kiss moment in the movie. The sound and feel of the rain, the rhythm of the droplets landing on everything around us - it gives the illusion of privacy. A place we can all play safely, passionately, and it draws our focus to whatever is directly around us.

This particular rain storm occurred in the wee hours of Easter. A day I've always had trouble with. Due to new memories I've been creating artistically I think I can safely replace the death of my father oh so many years ago with the dawning of a new Spring - and let the fae by my guide. I will never forget the love of my father, but I can safely let go of the pain - let the storm wash it away. Now I have new thoughts when the rain falls, and for Easter. Let the creative force be my guide, and heal my soul on all fronts. This is a time of healing, love, and new beginnings.

May today be an inspiration for all things good!

Monday's and to do lists

2009-04-06T05:56:00.000-07:00

Mondays have become my work days. I am vice/co president of our local art guild and I always have a list longer than I am tall to get done. I'm working on getting organized, and if you've ever known me in real life this is not an easy thing for me. It does not come naturally - in fact random acts of chaos are more the norm. However if I am to really make a difference in my community as an artist and a leader, organization is crucial at this juncture in my life. I don't know how people look like they always have it all together and know exactly how to handle things. I hope my illusion is firmly set in place by the time the guild switches over to new management and board members. At this point in time I am seeking people with skills to place in the various jobs that need to be done, and people that have skills in making it all run smoothly. I have learned a great deal. For one; organizing artists is akin to herding cats - and I'm just as cat like as everyone else. We are so easily distracted by super wonderful new shiny things and just expect things to happen the way we want them to - if anything is out of place we have a voice and aren't afraid to use it.

Now the trick is to figure out how to keep myself on task and not fly away on flights of fancy, while still following my artistic dreams and chasing the winds of fate. It's an interesting juggling act - and hopefully I will make it look easy. At the moment I look like a carnnie attempting their first balancing act - the crowd knows death is certain if the person shifts a quarter of an inch one way or the other - and by golly I feel like I have to sneeze *grins*

For now - I'll send out a billion emails, ask a billion questions, and hopefully figure out how to record the answers for future use. I'm reminded of the movie "Meet the Robinsons" and the quote "Keep moving forward!" A friend has reminded me that this point of view is fantastic for personal growth and goals - I'm taking the advice to heart quite literally!

Soo - "Keep moving forward!!"

Post Teen Lit Conference

2009-04-04T17:47:00.000-07:00

Ok - so the gang at Grumpy Dragon is fantastic. We had so much fun today!! The potential snow scared off alot of the teens that had planned on coming, but it was still a fairly good turn out. I am thankful that the amount of snow that was planned waited till this evening to fall. I wonder just how big the storm really would have been if there wasn't a collective thought of "please don't snow!!" . Regardless of the turnout I got to hang with my publishers and two of the other artists that are also making coloring books. Hollyn and Claudia are the artists - have to say - they are fantastic - and so are thier amazing ideas. Hollyn started the ideas of the coloring books - and it's really taken off. It was a fantastic day - and a start of a beautiful career for me. Now I get to see where I can really take this thing. See what challenges I can put myself to. I am really looking forward to it, and after today I'm inspired to draw!! There isn't enough time for the amount of ideas buzzing around my head - so I'll take them one at a time, write down the rest and get to them when I have time. Oh such a beautiful wonderful fun day!! Thank you all that got to spend it with me - my heart is light with ideas and concepts and the faith to dream!

Be inspired - be very inspired!!

Snow and Conferences

2009-04-03T17:41:00.000-07:00

I am going to the Teen Lit Conference tomorrow - hopefully. Apparently there is a snow storm on the way that may drop bucket loads of snow on our heads. I can't help but wonder what kind of humor the powers that be happen to have lol. I'll take it in good stride though - one of those - what happens happens kinds of things. I have 12 images sketched and 2 complete for my first coloring book, and several books planned for the next 6 months. This has done several things, for one it's got me drawing consistently, and since it's for a coloring book it feels more like play than work. My images and compositions are getting alot stronger with my publishers help, as well as variety withen the image itself. All in all it's making me a stronger artist all the way around that will echo into my further pieces. I love when I take something on for fun, and it turns out to be a learning experience!!

Unplanned art

2009-04-02T21:42:00.000-07:00

So today started out funky. Funky moods, funky thoughts, and a moody awakening.

A friend talked with me through the day - making it oh so much better.

After dinner I danced to exercise. I have started doing this to gather my passion to apply directly to my artwork. I move to music to loosen my muscles, gather my focus, and get in touch with all things creative. When I got to a stopping point I grabbed a piece of mattboard and painted the image that had come into my mind. White acrylic on dark blue mattboard. Two figures kissing in the rain. Simple, romantic and a heck of alot of fun. It took me 30 minutes to make, and flowed so easily. I'm liking this new side of myself, I feel an intense sense of freedom. The image I painted is posted at the top :)

Shattered cages - new beginnings!

2009-04-01T05:56:00.000-07:00

I used to dance alone in my living room when I was 16. Dance with the music up and with wild abandon. I didn't care how it looked, no one was watching. I was typically home alone, my mom at work and my brother hanging with his buddies. So i would dance, and use my imagination to create worlds of fantasy and beauty. All innocent. I danced until I was 18 - when I moved out in with a family from church. I haven't danced really since until now. Turn up the music and let my body move to the music and rhythm. Not caring what people think, and carve out times when I am alone. A deep connection to the words and music I feel move my soul. Last night as I danced my imagination took hold and I was in a cavern that reached 100's of feet into the air. I was connected to the primal magic that my written characters tend to have. I FELT my self made prison shatter into a million diamonds. I don't care what my 33 year old body looks like, I can change it. I don't care that my wardrobe is filled with frumpy clothing - it won't be for long. I don't care that I haven't had a passion to cook for the last 6 months - I can taste home made bread just out of reach. I don't care that time has passed and that depression has lead alot of my decisions - I'm making new ones now. I don't care what society says I should be or who I should be like - I am me - 100% me - and I can't wait to see what I can do with my artwork and written world. I find myself surrounded by supportive wonderful people who love me for who I am just as I am. Who want to see me really stretch my abilities and move forward on this creative path that calls so beautifully. I can taste the worlds I've read about, I can feel the winds filled with magic as I type. I know they will work their way into my stories, and my drawn and painted artwork. I don't care if I am ever famous, recognized or even known. I plan to create with the same wild abandon that I dance with.

My goal is still to inspire the world to be creative simply by doing what I love best.

Coloring Books and stuff

2009-03-28T04:04:00.000-07:00

I think waking up at 5am has become my new thing, I'm just all of a sudden awake. I am finding that waking up this early allows me to get more things done. This is first on that list - update the blogger :)

So I'm working on a coloring book - it will be wonderfully cute when I'm done, and it's all my own design. My publisher is working with me on it to get the details right. When it's finished I will have 41 original images that are printed on one sided super thick Bristol board. Technically I'm working on four coloring books. It would be awesome if I am able to get them all out this year!! I just finished image 12 of the rough drafts in my first coloring book, I need to count the number of pages I have for the second one. They are currently in my "need to file pile" The second one I'm working on is going to be a small chunky book - I'm LOVING these smaller ones - they just pop into my head from no where - it is sooo awesome. I need to get them all scanned and sent to the Grumpy Dragon for review. I think a couple of them I can just ink where they lay on the page. Others I will have to fiddle with to get the perspective right. I am getting some outside help from a dear friend of mine though. He is helping me give the page more depth by adding his two cents in helpful feedback. I have found myself also writing a story with a friend - at this rate it will be a full blown novel. I've always wanted to write - and this current project nearly feels effortless. Were close to 30,000 words already! So much creativity going on to share with the world!!

It's nice to be surrounded by people who truly understand me, and can offer helpful feedback as opposed to "I don't like that, but I don't know why." Type stuff - that is an opinion and doesn't help anyone.

I've begun to reconnect with all sorts of people in my life, I'm finding a great deal of them are artists. My heart swells in what we have in common and can talk about now that were older and a bit wiser. I am choosing to surround myself with beautiful wonderful creative people - and have found my life full and rewarding. It also contains a great deal less drama!!

Easter is nearly upon us - what's your favorite thing about spring? Find a way to put a bit of that in your home to see every day if possible!

Passion

2009-03-24T06:24:00.000-07:00

I have opened up my life in new and interesting ways, and as a result have found something I didn't know I had lost. Working through the Artist Way book - I finally made it past week 6 and am open to the idea that I wish to push forward and really learn what it means to become fully enmeshed in my artwork and have the focus to pursue it. What I have found is my passion, my ability to be in love with life again. I'm not sure where I lost it, or where it went - but finding it again I feel so alive, so fully in the moment. Everything revolves around spending time making life fun and bright and shiny again. I don't mean by buying new things - but in fact by making new things. To take the old drab look and spice it up to be more myself. To go into cohorts with my husband and make our house more about our life and less about the crap to person ratio. When I put color to paper, or words in sentences I feel a sense of freedom. Kinda like you imagine a child who has just escaped their clothing and is running freely through the house with that unmistakable giggle that rings of "look what I'm getting away with"

I do - I feel when I create something that I imagine in my mind that I'm getting away with something. I had so convinced myself that I couldn't draw without a picture. Life became dull and drab because the reality of what that meant was I couldn't create at all without a visual prompt, and if my photography sucked (and it's not my strong suit) then I couldn't create at all. It was a nice little catch 22 trap of procrastination designed specifically to keep me trapped and blocked.

So I've moved on, now images are flying out of my heart with wings and a desire to be created and seen by others. I use pictures for reference for shadows and shapes - but my artwork is freely taking shape on it's own. I have NO CLUE what this means or where it will take me. I do know that I'm enjoying this ride to it's fullest and when the car stops for me to rest after a big project I accept the down time and get back in line for the next ride!

Am I scared - a little. This is seriously uncharted territory. However I am choosing to take life with the perspective of an explorer - blocks in my path are just another way to hone my skills to find a way past and deeper into uncharted territory. My life has new meaning and purpose now - and that involves pure playful creativity in it's rawest of forms.

I'm curious where I'll end up when the ride is truly over. I hope as I come across others that they will see the path I've taken, and have the courage to explore their own paths. It would be downright awesome if the world had the opportunity to forge ahead with their true desires as creatives and the faith to walk the path!

Take a moment to watch a child at play, take note of how carefree they are - find out how you can feel that free again!

Week 9 in the Artist Way - reading my morning pages

2009-03-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

Ok - so I opened my morning pages that I started writing on 1-24-2007 - over two years ago. The first paragraph that I ran into inspired me to post it - it hit me square between my eyes and helped me like me a bit more. At least I started on an interesting note :) So here goes - lemme know what you think :)

1-24-2007 9:09 AM Wednesday (yes I put the day and time - helps me have a point of reference)

Welcome to the first page of my 2007 journal. Warning the contents of these pages are my private musings and explorations. All opinions are subject to change in the middle of the page as well as from day to day. All venting or complaining are merely for the purpose to explore these feelings and may or may not contain valid opinions or feelings. You are entering an artists mind and life - sanity generally is a loosly used term or description.

yup - as I re-read it here it still hits home. That's incredibly accurate and I feel kinda awesome that I had the wisdom and the skill to write it. That may sound incredibly egotistical - the reality is that I'm just now starting to acknowledge myself as a writer and this was a great way to affirm that. Just as I start reading my journals to document insights and dreams I get met with this friendly playful me.

To me this screams "there is hope yet" Hope to become a writer, to continue to be an artist, to find fun and learn to play again. Hope in every aspect - it's a great feeling!

*raises glass* here's to finding something awesome you like about yourself that is truly you!

Reconnecting

2009-03-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

I have joined the reconnecting passion of the latest new thing called Facebook. I know there's a myspace - I was afraid of the rumors that it had turned into a over glorified free for all with no moral basis. I have no proof - but it was enough to make it so that I did no more than make an account so I could see pages friends wanted me to view. On Facebook though I've found a home - a place to play - and all of a sudden some wonderful old friends. It's like a High School reunion without the travel costs - minus all the wierd awkwardness because there are pictures, and histories, and chats. I'm really enjoying seeing old friends, and reconnecting with the people that used to know me. I have no idea what the future will hold, but if it's filled with good friends I'm really looking forward to it. I forget that alot of people didn't know that Caleb and I had married - that we have been married for 13 years. I forget sometimes that it wasn't general knowledge. He's been my husband, friend and companion - for me I have a daily reminder in the beautiful life we've created. We don't live lavishly - simply and happily would be a better description. We have our two children, our dog and two cats. We have a garage, a backyard, and a mortgage - typical American lifestyle to be honest. I am an artist - part of the art guild here where I live. I love to draw, paint, sculpt - and now that my kids are a bit older I can indulge in such creative ideas as writing childrens books and making hand crafted creations. My passion lies in my drawings though - and I have whole worlds yet to explore. For those reading this just finding me - the web link is http://www.TRCreations.com -- my new ventures :)

Have a beautifully creative day!!

Art Museum/Dazzle Jazz club

2009-03-09T12:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was fantastic! I had my first girls day out with 4 other women in about 10 years. I've never been one to have alot of women as friends, and thus the whole ritual of "girls night out" has been a rare occurrence. Yesterday was the exception to the rule in all categories! We went to Dazzle in down town Denver - I HIGHLY recommend it! We went to the brunch, and the food was fantastic, the music was enchanting. The din of talking customers was a tad on the noisy side, and the wine was flowing freely by the time we got there at several tables so of course they got louder. I suggest if a trip is planned, prepare to clap after every song - the musicians need to know the crowd appreciates their art! FYI - make reservations - it's a very popular spot!! So after we were stuffed to the gills with fresh raspberries, cream brullie (sp??), fresh omelets, spicy Cajun fish, cheesy grits and an array of mouth watering delectable's - we walked the 4 blocks to the Art Museum. Floors and floors of art awaited our pleasure of meeting. The fee for entrance was only $10 for the Museum - and worth every penny. By the time I walked out I was on sensory overload and inspired to create. I came home and started playing with my clay. I'm making one of those cool fairy doors you see in stores - but I'm personalizing it. I'm still designing it so that it will stand on it's own. I'm using polymer clay and will post a picture of it when I get it finished. On the way home I created a neat idea for polymer pendants that I'm going to attempt to see how they turn out.

A couple of things I learned on my Artist outing/girls day:
1. carpooling is awesome
2. bring at least $50 in cash - don't expect to use plastic
3. have fun!

I hope that everyone gets a chance to go out and play this week = have fun, do something different and find little joys in life that create wonderful memories!!

Tina

updates updates

2009-03-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

I've put new images on the website. Romancing the Arts Show is finished, down and returned to the artists! New shows are in the process of being put together and settled. I can't believe it's March! What happened to January - I swear someone pushed the fast forward button. It's all a blur of dishwashing, laundry, meetings, planning, thousands of emails, small bits of time playing World of War Craft (I was a really bad addict - now I'm a sometimes visitor), planning committee's, listening sessions, LOTS of phone calls, and alot of drawing and doodling. I feel like the world has accepted me as an artist, and then went "so can you handle THIS" lol - so far the answer is yes. Surprising even to me. I am surrounded by caring intelligent people who are teaching me so many wonderful things. I have alot to learn, and ALOT of questions to ask. I'm learning to be less egotistical and know it all - because in actuality I am just learning so many things. I don't have years of experience or an educational degree to back me up - I'm learning on the fly. As such by this time next year I'll know a great deal about how all this works - and it's a great start!

I hope this finds you well :)

Tina

The aftermath of Reading Deprivation

2009-02-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

So perhaps I cheated a little, perhaps I did read and stay on top of my most "important" emails. Perhaps I did read my current novel a tad here and there. *looks around room and leans closer* but I did learn a few things this week about myself. As I type this, a flower looks up at me - not your typical flower - and I can't wait to finish her to place on my web page. She appeared to me at the beginning of the week while I was journaling. At that point she had a companion. In this image though she is alone and the viewer will have to decide what she's doing. She has no eyes or nose or typical anthropomorphic characteristics - however she's chalk full of personality. She came about in a coffee shop, while I avoided the books like a kid in a candy store that can't have sweets. I sat down with my mini pad of drawing paper and started doodling - and poof there she was. So I brought her along for the demo yesterday at the gallery. The response was awesome! Nothing like gettng a thumbs up from your colleges who are there to play and chat :)

My coloring book characters are starting to really pop onto the page as well - I finally figured out my water elemental and the earth elemental is starting to formulate. The fire one I have but need to rearrange the placement. 41 images - 41 wonderful cartoonish images all from my imagination. For alot of artists the response to that last sentence most likely would be "Big Deal". The Answer would be that 2 years ago I was certain I HAD to have a picture or image in front of me to work from. That at best I was a really good copy machine that could take elements and add them together to make great art. All of a sudden withen the last few months that neccessary step faded away into the mists of my imagination. I might need a picture for reference on shadows and highlights - but not for the entire image. My shading and blending are coming alot more naturally too. Like someone turned on a light switch and showed me the imaginary world I treasure so much!

This round of the Artist Way I find myself reaching beyond where I had before. Daring to take that next step and truly have faith in the Creator. My ideas are getting recorded for future use, my dreams are starting to take shape and form. I don't yearn to be an artist anymore - because I'm already there. I am an artist. Now I yearn to test myself and see where it takes me! To connect with other artists and share the magic that is creating amazing things.

As I drift off into the busy day ahead of me I hope the wishes that others will create today float through the air and land with playful gusto.

Thought for the day: "May you keep your Muse very busy today, and hopefully play a little in the process!"

Moving Past

2009-02-19T06:04:00.000-08:00

Today the sun is bright, and the sound and feel of spring is in the air. Today my son cries for his lost friend, and celebrates that she's not in pain anymore. It is a bitter sweet day - a dark chocolate day in the history of our family. A monumental phase of life that is so normal it's written into screen plays, books, and stories. Yet it doesn't feel common at all. To watch his tears, to get a billion hugs from grieving - somehow it seems so huge - so close. I'm just thankful I have the knowledge to help him through this, the experience to be certain when I tell him this is normal. I do not enjoy the pain of my past - but I am thankful that I can pass along the ability to understand on such a powerful level that this really is part of life. The reality that every morning will bring a bit more relief and the one that has passed is alright and with them in heart and memory. I also enjoy my ability to create because as I type this my son has a pencil in hand and is transferring his pain to the paper in the form of creativity. A hint of the sunshine that is so bright outside is glinting in his eye as he makes motions to move past this. I hope this day helps him forever down the line as he runs into tough situations. Today we start healing and moving into the future.

A sad day

2009-02-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

My son has a rat - a pet rat. She is white with a head that looks as though she dipped her head to her shoulders in creamed coffee. She has been a wonderful companion to he and myself. Today though she isn't doing so well. She has a tumor - common among little critters like her. Her personality hasn't changed, but the full left side of her head is numb and blind. We knew it was coming, we knew her life was going to be short. That knowledge has lead to many conversations and explorations in regards to the cycle of life and what it really means to loose someone you love. In my own world the small child that dealt with her fathers death at 4 1/2 is watching, listening, and learning from our discussions. The discussions my own mother was grieving to heavily to explain with compassion and understanding like I can do now. I feel as though I'm explaining to myself the process I know so well, and making sense of it throughout the stages in my life where I've lost someone dear and close. Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents etc.

They say that you learn much much more than you anticipated when you teach someone something you know well. I think when were on the other side of this I will be a stronger person, and my son will have a skill set for dealing with death that will help him throughout his life.

Links to good media to share with children on this topic :
Fall of Freddie the Leaf - http://www.amazon.com/Fall-Freddie-Leaf-Story-Life/dp/0805010645
Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium - http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Magoriums-Wonder-Emporium-Widescreen/dp/B00128VA76/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1234977432&sr=1-1

Reading Deprivation - Day 1

2009-02-16T20:59:00.000-08:00

Ok - so the reading deprivation is bugging me more than I thought.
I've found myself writing poetry for the first time in years. I
thought I would share it. Here's the poem I just wrote.

Reading Deprivation - Day 1

The written word ripped from my grasp
Computer hard drives remain still and cold
The TV a silent box staring at me
Daring me to push that switch
Testing my resolve

I feel compelled to create
And yet angry and sullen like a denied child
As if my favorite toy is being washed for the day
Or forgotten at home while I head to vacation

I'm not going anywhere
I sit at home and look at my rooms
I notice smells I didn't know were there that I don't like
So I clean up a bit
I notice piles that had grown over time
So I sort them
Laundry piles get smaller
While children run under foot

My art room doesn't make me happy
It still feels like a borrowed store room
Cluttered with junk and a To Do List a mile long
It only shows portions of me -
A drum here, a dragon there
A sparkly hand made mask up on a shelf above an overfull fabric shelf
A flower here and there - silk of course
There are no living things in this room space
Save for myself and my cat - and a small heater if that counts

My imagination however rubs it's hands in delight
Once it is past the barriers of my constant distractions
It will run free and most likely nude just for fun
Free to rearrange and create with wild abandon
My adult side complains
My child side pulls on her boots to go outside to play.

Tina - written 2/16/2009

Reading Deprivation

2009-02-16T07:36:00.000-08:00

Chapter 4 of the Artist Way - A path to Higher Creativity has a task your supposed to do called Reading Deprivation. It basically tells you to stop reading for a week. This includes emails, books, newspapers, websites, and anything you can think of that involves the written word. I'm adding TV, computer games, and other electronic devices to this list as well. Sounds like I'm torturing myself doesn't it - for most people who read this they are most likely already starting to list reasons why they couldn't or woudn't ever do this. There might be a quickening in your breathing and pulse. Interesting isn't it. Why would a person reading this react in such a powerful way??

If you've gotten past the first paragraph your doing well. What this task actually does is it shows you where your spending your time. If a person reads email and surfs the internet every day from say 8-10:30 in the morning - and now they are supposed to avoid that - what do you do with that time - how often do you find your hand reaching to turn on the computer. It shows you where your time is being spent, and how your life is affected by constant distractions. All of a sudden you have these bubbles of time that have nothing in them - so what do you fill them with? The answer is different for everyone - for me this week I hope to fill the bubbles with art - lots and lots of art. I've already updated my webpage at http://www.TRCreations.com and now I'm updating my blog.

A friend mentioned in our Artist Way Group that I do my best to not pull my family into it this time. In the past I have just declared the week a no tv week for everyone so we spend time together. This time though I shall take her advice = not change their lives and see how I do by focusing on my own week and let them live their lives as usual. This is a challenge for me - we have constant distractions around the house. I'm curious how reading deprivation for me and not anyone else in the house will be like - I can feel my own pulse quickening and the arguments bubbling to the surface. I really really want to see the results though. I'll post here as the week progresses to document my progress.

Personally I highly recommend trying this to anyone. The truth is that it's ONLY 7 days out of a billion in a persons lifetime. Seeing yourself in a much clearer way after the week is over is interesting, and can be very healing.

Quote for the day : "Do you remember what a sunset looks like? Turn off the tv, turn off the computer, go outside and find the beauty that occurs every day in your own backyard!"

Hair on Fire

2009-02-11T10:55:00.000-08:00

It would take me a month to post all the things I have found myself doing all of a sudden. A general overview - alot of things artistic involving alot of artistic events - alot of them with me on the committee. My email fingers are on high speed, my children are making valentines for their respective parties, and my coloring books are starting to take shape for publishing. My ferrets are also starting to play in my imagination in the way ferrets tend to do. I feel like a really crazy orchestra trying to play all the notes to the direction of an unseen director who has full confidence in me. I seriously need to find that confidence for myself LOL. I'm getting there.

The Artist Way meetings have been fantastic - and the group of people that are attending are wise beyond my years and have some amazing insight into the world around. I have been inspired to create after every session, and have followed that inspiration. My difficulty comes in carving out that bit of time where I create for me instead of answering emails, running errands and talking on the phone. I have an infinate list of to-do's and they are so enticing to my work-a-holic side. It's time I let myself play and make beautiful things. There is a Prismacolor competition I would LOVE to put in an application for. I have a picture that has been politely giving me puppy dog eyes to complete - ironically there isn't a puppy to be seen in the image and won't be lol.

On my to do list for playing with my children - a science experiment involvoing creating rock candy for Easter gifts in wonderful colors. I'm already collecting jars.

To do list for my family - get the seeds planted for germinating now so we can plant them in June - no sunburning this time (mourns dead sunburnt plants from last year)

My personal to do list - infinate of course :) I have so many ideas giving me puppy dog eyes!!

Time to ferret the smallest munchkin off to school - have a fantastic creative day!!

Tina

Fantasy

2009-02-05T08:53:00.001-08:00

Spring always makes me think of fae, flowers and baby animals. It also is the time I start my seeds going for my garden. At this point in the year I find myself designing a fun coloring book that involves fantasy heavily. The images were flowing freely there for a bit - but somehow the full moon always throws my creative energies all over the place like scattered stars. All of a sudden I have too many projects needing my attention - or asking for my attention - or simply looking to cool not to try. I never realized it before but the full moon is very hard for me to come back to earth and stay grounded in reality - it's when I want to fly with all the flying creatures of the world and play hopscotch in the clouds. It's also when I'm at my deepest need for affirmation that it's ok to play like this by finding others of like energies to play with. We are few - but that innoscent connection to our young inner children is a beautiful one. The full moon is coming - so if you happen to hear howling mixed with giggles just know it's temporary - I'll come back to earth soon and regain my focus. I'm hoping the fae I run into while flitting around will stand still long enough for me to draw them - I wonder how you flatter a fae *grins*

Quote for today: "If you can not see, taste, smell, feel, or hear the magic of the world around you - go out and find some!" Tina Nordloh 2008 in regards to her temporary lost connection with her imagination.

Time flies

2009-01-31T10:12:00.001-08:00

The world seems to be speeding up with the variety of projects I'm involved with. There is so much that still needs to be done, and I have a feeling that will be a common quote from me. The Romancing the Arts Show is up at the Phillip S. Miller Library - the dates for the reception and the announcement of the winners is Friday February 13th from 6-8:30. I anticipate this is going to be an awesome night! We will have food, people dressed in costume talking about the ancestor famous artists, violins and fun. I can't wait to see how my Iris fairs. I'm just happy to be there. I see the show like a handful of diamonds - they all glitter beautifully when gathered together in one place. There are 61 artists that were accepted and 98 pieces hung - and it's truly a beautiful show!!

As for me - I'm just running around so busy doing things and being part of things. I'll write more about it when I have time. For the moment though I'm headed to a re-grand opening potluck. See you soon.

Tina

Artist Way

2009-01-20T06:54:00.000-08:00

I had an incredible experience on Sunday. I decided that I wanted to go through the Artist Way 12 week program again, but this time I wanted to do it in a face to face group. So I sent out emails, got a room at the library for 14 weeks, and showed up on time. We had a group of 10 people and it was fantastic. I've also sent them a link to the yahoo group I belong to, and I can't wait for discussions and topics as we focus on the chapters. Artist Way is a creative self help book written by Julia Cameron. I picked it up the first time in 2004, and have been an advocate ever sense. I have faced alot of my childhood fears and hangups and am a better person all the way around for it. The tips and techniques can be applied to creatives and non creatives alike. 3 pages of journaling a day to dump all the mental clutter and be able to see clearer and focus better. One 30min - 3 hour trip on your own doing what you enjoy - as a an artist I refer to them as artist dates straight from the book - but others could consider them a me date, or time to myself. Then there are tasks - like making a list of monsters that picked on you or didn't support you, and a list of those that did, or people that you admired. You write to yourself as a child and tell them who you are now, and where you would like to be, you write to yourself now as if you were 80 looking back. It's a nice wake up call to see where you are, what you want to be and how to get there. For this week I work on sketches for my books, I work on the Artist Way, I get my shows and guild requirements flowing properly. A busy week - espeically with family coming for the weekend starting on Thursday. Sometimes I wonder where I will get the chance to breath or focus - but then I find myself sitting on the couch with my kids watching Ben 10, or Scooby doo. It all works out, I just have to make sure I remain on the path to balance in all things :)

Thought for the day - if you were to go for 3 hours to do something you haven't done in a long time - where would it be. Then be daring and make it happen!

Public Speaking - what was I afraid of?

2009-01-09T04:18:00.000-08:00

In the past public speaking, heck the thought of public speaking, would make me shake in my boots and start stammering "um,,, ahhhhhh" Not sure what changed this time. I was asked to give a 30 minute speech on the ornament and guild and gallery and not only did I keep in my time limit - not over or under - I recieved complements on content and presentation. I'm really happy with how it turned out. I did miss some key points, and with some practice I can be less "stiff" and more charismatic. It was the oddest thing, it was like my speech teacher from college was saying "stand here, cover these points, look around the room, now move here and use a prop" it was kinda neat actually. I'm not afraid of public speaking anymore.

I have also started a local Artist Way group - and the interest is blowing me away. I hope we get a nice solid group that everyone - myself included - can benefit from. It starts January 18th - I'm excited! I am hoping for a casual open atmosphere where we can discuss each chapter each week, and I actually would rather have my listening ears on for these sessions. I learn so very much from the conversations that come from each chapter. Things I didn't realize were normal, or issues I had no clue other people have had too. It is nice to be among people you suddenly realize really are on the same path. I will never claim this path is an easy one - unblocking and changing bad habits into good. However - it is an amazing one. It's nice to be able to live life free of fears, anxiety - and overall to be chasing that dream of being what I've always wanted to be. An artist.

The down and gritty - I'm just an average person. I had a bumpy childhood, a poor childhood, and one where my imagination was my best friend. I grew up with a very very low self esteem, and very harsh on judging myself. I created bad habits out of neccessity, or because I thought I had to. I have luckily stayed away from the vices that held and hold my mom so tightly in their grips - and to whatever muse encouraged me to stay away from smoking and drinking am ever grateful. We all have our stories, or skeletons in the closet, our REAL life as opposed to the glamourous show we tend to put on for others. The scariest monsters are those in our past, and I can tell you - when you finally shrink them down to what they really are - the healing is blissful.

Now as me - I'm a gal who's part of an amazing guild, who suddenly lost her fear of speaking publicly. I painted a beautiful ornament that got to go somewhere special and is fun to talk about. I am preparing my artistic presentation today to present to my publisher and were inches away from signing a contract (more about that when it's a done deal) This year - 2009 - promises to be a working year. A year where I test my skills, and my endurance. The motto - "Just keep drawing" (for some reason I can't type that without Dori's voice from Finding Nemo popping into my head) Or the alt - "Just keep Creating" Doesn't matter what, for whom, or how. I just have to keep going.

Simple - effective - standing orders "Just keep creating"

A beautiful first week of the year

2009-01-04T20:04:00.000-08:00

New years eve has come and gone, and the New Year has started - a beautiful and creative 2009 to everyone!

So far, on the agenda, is alot of clearing. Basically cleaning and getting rid of the things that just don't fit the person I've grown into now. Old negative objects that only hold bad memories that hold me down, or colors that don't jive with what makes me zing. In my attempt to clean my art room I have found 12 projects half finished or just ideas on paper. At this rate I'll have enough to keep me busy clear into next year :) Always good to have a variety or projects to fall back on when I need a break from a tough part, or a change in creative focus.

On friday I was asked by a Rotery Club to speak for 30 minutes about the ornament and the guild I'm in. I'm nervous but really excited. This is such a great opportunity, not to mention really good practice for future public speaking. I've spoken to alot of the people involved with the guild and the gallery I'm in for ideas - 30 minutes is a long time - but it will go by quickly.

I am gathering together an Artist Way group and have 12 positive responses! I'm soo excited. I think this will be a terrific group, and positive for everyone that participates - me included. It's wonderful to be able to share ideas, and experiences with others on a similar path. I don't expect it to be a cake walk - the artist way can dig up some pretty wild emotions and experiences from the past. At the end of the course though there is such liberation and freedom over fears and anxieties - not to mention past monsters that plagued our dreams. It's worth the ride, and for my situation, a total revisit!

A great year, a wonderful beginning. Now to get some artwork done!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2009-01-01T06:04:00.000-08:00

So 2009 us upon us as of 12:01 last night. A time for new years resolutions, plans and various other goal setting events. I believe my motto will be "Plan for the Unexpected" combined with "Carpe Diem" With a family like mine that has a tendency to need or want things unexpectedly usually at the last minute my rhythm gets knocked off balance alot. For example I spent the last two days helping my 9 year old brother and sister n law work on a massive school project. I have to say - I am really proud of them. They stuck to it the whole time, and believe me it was ALOT of work. The project was to research, plan and build a midevil castle on a 12x12 board with all the parts labled. We all learned a great deal!! I helped them with minor details like real metal portcullis's out of wire, and nicely printed labels in their chosen font. The rest of the work they did themselves. My plans had included getting the house spottless so I could do some guilt free creating - now I have to start over. Thing is though - things tend to work out the way they are supposed to. I got an extra two days of creating with two of my favorite people, and as such am inspired to create myself.
My two boys are also inspired in much the same manner. Creativity is catching, and tends to pop up when you least expect it. I'm learning to show up to the page consistantly and then ride the waves of inspiration as they hit. It's like swimming towards the shore, you make progress if you keep going - but when a big wave picks you up and pushes you even closer it's a nice incentive to keep going.
So some of my new years resolutions include: Showing up to the page and working, plan for bumps in the road (sick children, family crises, school projects etc.), Make sure I get my weekly ME time (taking time for everyone else is just easier for me - but hurts me in the long run), Take time to PLAY - really PLAY with my kids, and above all - getting organized so I can do it without panicking I've forgotten something all the time. With the Art Guild, my new Artist Way group I've started, creating a serious proposal for my publisher, my family, all things school related, and the various other things I have going on - it's essential I organize my time effeciently.
One of my favorite signs is the Yin Yang - and all it stands for. I have found that it is a symbol that means many different things to many different people. For me - it is the consistant quest for balance. Balance of day and night, the right foods with the not so healthy ones, time for me and time for the world. If I showed a yin yang with the balance of my life over the last year it would look much like someone stuck their finger in the image and swirled it at times blending the colors. My goal is to make the balance in as many area's as I can clear and crisp - it's a forever goal - one I will strive for all my life. I just hope to get some real practice in this year. My art is also a forever goal - each time I put a pencil to paper I learn something. I hope when I die at the ripe age of 200 (grins) I will be a grand master at creating. Wether it is on paper, canvas, with clay, wire, beads, a really cool blow torch, a tasty meal, decorating the rooms in my house, building things like cabinets, gardening, and anything else I care to take a hand at.
When I said the quote used in the article "Just go out and create" I really did mean anything positive! Fine art is wonderful stunning and beautiful, functional art is usable and fun, crafting uses all sorts of wild things, singing inspires the soul, writing conveys a message and can take one on the adventure of a life time, playing an instrument makes the soul sing - and sometimes causes the body to dance, Dancing is a feast for the eyes, vocally telling stories is captivating, and soo many more forms of creativity. I believe we need those that can draw to make beautiful things, and those that can't (or say they can't) to appreciate those beautiful things. The bigger picture though is that even the appreciators have their own way of moving the world by their version of creativity. I envy those that can balance numbers with ease, or those that can read a combination of blue prints and make a building. I also envy those that can sing so beautifully. By envy I mean enjoy. So really - go out and create ANYTHING positive! Happy New Year!!!

Goals

2008-12-27T21:38:00.000-08:00

I can tell when I'm getting more focused on making things happen and getting things done. All of a sudden the dusty cluttered areas of my house start driving me crazy. I go through a frenzy of clearing trying to attain peace in my house and in my heart. I'm so easily distracted that alot of times the dishes get over looked, or the dirty laundry starts looking like the perfect hide and go seek spot. Now is a great time to figure out how to map out my time and balance what part house keeper, mom of two at home during winter break, and what part artist I get to put in which time slot. There are a few things I've figured out about myself that will be a benefit. What time of day I work best at which things, which tasks are hardest and will take the most time. I am aware that I am so far out of balance my focus looks more like a picasso painting. Nothing wrong with that - I just need to shape it all back into clay and start fresh by shaping it into what I would like it to look like and then aim my life that direction.

Thought for the day - Do I really need all this stuff??

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T18:11:00.000-08:00

The presents are unwrapped, the candy has been eaten. The tree looks rather empty without all the colorful presents underneath it. I have a warm cozy feeling though, and no the egg nog wasn't spiked this year. My family surrounds me today in love, friendship, and open acceptance. It is a very nice feeling. Tomorrow I plan on catching up on the chores around here so I can start focusing on my illustrations and the plans for the art shows I need to set in motion over the next months. New Years resolutions include getting organized and maintaining that organization. I'm so far behind right now, but I know that's only temporary as I catch up to the holiday craziness. I face the future of after Christmas with hope and determination. I'm starting my company in the next few weeks and months called PrismCanvas. I am making friends that are positive and supportive. I worry about my mom - but she's on her own path - and will either find her way or not. My job is to keep my family on the level, and keep chasing those stars. I want my children to know that they can chase their own stars and if they fall, can just pick themselves up, dust themselves off and keep going. The one solid truth about art is to make it successfully you have to keep creating. To alot of people this simple truth is scary, I have full faith that anyone who really really tries will succeed. It may not be the way it was expected or anticipated, but each success leads to a new path that will lead to even more discoveries and success. As a stuck artists we see only next week or next year - and it appears terrifying. As an unblocked artist time isn't a factor - the next piece, the next opportunity and goal is the main focus. Wether I have 2 minutes to draw or a week - my goal is to be a grand master artist in as many forms as I can play with by the time I'm 70. I walk a path of creativity - each time I reach a summit I see more I can do, play with, and more dreams to chase.

Holidays and family

2008-12-23T22:57:00.000-08:00

I don't know why the holidays are such a hard time for some. I grew up with a parent that the holidays were always tough on. Yeah it was tight, and yeah we did without a few things - but it was the emotional struggle that always brought things down like a house of cards. Like the shorter days were a darkness they couldn't escape from. Perhaps that's why I enjoy light and color so much - to keep joy around me. As I write this the a fore mentioned parent is having a really tough time right now, and there is literally nothing I can do. The light, love and color I have surrounded myself with is like garlic and holy water if they were a vampire in their opinion. It makes me Sad. I think that's why I love to share my joy of creativity with everyone around me. I can't heal those that don't choose to walk the path I do - but I can share the joy of creating beautiful things with the people who share the love of creating something. My passion in life is to inspire those around me by simply doing what I love to do. Life is to precious not to chase our dreams, and much to short to wait around for it to come to us. No matter how you celebrate the winter season - I hope this finds you in good spirits as you read! If things are tough, I hope things start looking up!! Happy Holidays!!

My obsession with hand making gifts

2008-12-19T08:15:00.001-08:00

I am an artist, a crafter, a writer, and on occasion a semi poet. I am also a Wife, Mom, Aunt, Sister, Cousin, Daughter, Grandaughter, Daughter-n-law, and Next Door Neighbor. Everyone has at least one of these titles in their collection. For myself, I take being an Aunt very seriously - it is my job - and joy - to make hand made gifts for all the kids in my family. My past attempts have led me to learning to crochet, sew, color manga, and a variety of wonderful skills I can add to my resume for life. This year - sewing is my main tool. That and ALOT of stuffing. Since my nephews and nieces read my blog I can't divulge what I am making - but I can tell you I am buried under bolts of fabric, stuffing, and thread. Watch out for the sharp pins too. Last year I made hooded towels for everyone, a couple years before that I made hats and scarves for everyone out of fleece. I like getting creative with something they will use and have fun with. Some day I hope to make them all quilts. The goal - something warm and fuzzy from me. It's my yearly I love you take home hug.

The coolest business meeting ever

2008-12-12T21:06:00.000-08:00

So - I called a publisher. We hit it off fantastically. We set a lunch date. We had a blast! The ideas flow like a spring run off from the mountains. The energy was so high I could have floated on clouds hours afterward. Such a wonderful day. We discussed her ideas, my ideas, shared ideas. The one conclusion that was made was that were pretty certain we will work well together. No contracts have been signed yet - or even drawn up yet. It's all preliminary. However - I KNOW I can do this - and do it well! I just have to convince her counterpart and business partner. That will be a dinner date with them and my husband and I after the new year.

I'm soo excited!! I have had story ideas in my head for years now - and the oddest thing has happened. I feel like someone pulled them off the shelf, blew life back into their embers and now I have fae and dragons flitting around my house. I spent the ENTIRE day while my husband was at work sorting and cleaning and organizing. Tackling cobwebs and piles I've placed in my way to stop me from creating. They just don't belong anymore. In AW (Artist Way) it's called clearing. Basically you clear out all the old junk to make way for the new you. I gotta tell you - it feels fantastic.

So - now I can find my camera, and my checkbook. I can actually see bits of my desk peaking through (is it REALLY that color!!) and I even got some promised things done today. Not on top of the world. Missed a few key events today - but I'm getting there. New years resolution - organization I can keep up with!!

My business card says Illustrator - I'm getting closer and closer to that goal!

A piece completed

2008-12-09T13:40:00.001-08:00

After 8 months on and off my Iris and it's lovely background is finally finished. You can see it here:

(copy and paste) http://www.trcreations.com

I've entered it into the Romancing the Arts show. We'll see if it gets in. I decided on a lattice fence in the background and added a me-designed butterfly to give it a bit more to look at. That one petal on the right draped over so much that it left a big whole what would only be filled with fence - a butterfly was a logical choice :). It feels good to finally have it finished! Now my monochromatic blues piece is calling to me to be completed lol. I'll have to see what I work on next though.

I think for the holidays though my sewing machine will be the one hard at work as I hand make the gifts for all the kids in my family. I love making them home made "I love you" gifts - and they all really seem to appreciate them!

I meet with the publisher on Thursday to show her my portfolio - we'll see what happens. I am pretty excited though - being an illustrator of childrens books is something I've always wanted to do! Wish me luck!

Tina

Preparing for a show

2008-12-05T20:28:00.000-08:00

As I type this December 8th looms closer and closer. On this day - a normal Monday for most - I have to have applied for two shows - one at a gallery, and one that will hang at the Phillip S. Miller Library if it's excepted. There's a jurying process. If you've never sent in an application for juried show - the way it works is you send you application, the money, and the images. Then a 1- to up to a team of people look through all the images and choose which ones will stay. This may seem cruel - to have people decide what images they like best to stay in the show - and probably seems biased and unfair. The reality is that they, as a group - have to weigh in a couple of factors. Things like - how much room do they have to hang, how many prizes do they have to hand out, and what kind of reception can they afford. The space, the prizes, and the reception come from the application money. If you get $20 total (say $1 from 20 applicants to keep it simple) then you have to figure out how to have a reception and prizes with EXACTLY that amount unless you get grants or donations from businesses.

In reality - it is just and fair. Usually the selection process is very long, and difficult for the team doing it. If they have a heart like mine - they go home after all the emails are sent, slides returned, and the show set in motion weary that they couldn't let everyone in.

Do I have a chance to get into the show called "Romancing the Arts" - we'll see. My chance is as good as all the other incredible applicants. The point isn't wether I get in or not, wether I win or not. The point is I have the courage to try at all, and the faith that what happens is meant to be. Regardless of what happens - the money I send will go towards one of the greatest receptions I've ever had the pleasure to help plan.

There will be three actors dressed as famous painters of history, violinsits playing for the crowd, food to die for (especially if Rosie and Fay are making it) and a sense of history in the making.

As far as the gallery goes - my Summer Pig is a house favorite symbolizing the mens bathroom (the owner of the buildings choice). The trick then becomes me creating new artwork and getting it framed in time for the hanging. I always help accept and hang the artwork - my heart somehow got painted in permanantly when we helped give it a fresh "new look".

So this weekend, my pencils will fly - my heart will remain focused, and my house will be messy or not - can't think about it till I'm done. Focused to a fault on creating the most beautiful Iris I can - in hues of rose pink, deep burgendy, and light purple. The tricky part is what in the world will I put in the background *grins*.

So - what are you creating??

White House Blue Room Ornament December 2008

2008-12-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

I have a fun story I had to wait till today to tell anyone per a
contract I signed.

The serendipity is that if I had never had the faith to join this
guild, put the time into the gallery, put the personal time into
getting to know an incredible congressman, or brought my artwork to
work on outdoors - this chance would have never come my way. The
store and the links to it follow below.

It all started with a guild I joined here where I live called GCRAG
(GCRAG.org if your curious) Well one of our new members who is also
the former mayor of Castle Rock offered his office walls and
conference rooms for a gallery. So we scraped wallpaper, tore off
trim, repainted, re-trimmed - and when it was all done hung a glorious
collection of artwork from 26 of our members. One of the obligations
to being in the gallery is to man the receptions desk on Fridays and
Saturdays - so we split it into shifts and took turns. One of the
appealing ideas to draw people into the gallery was to demo our work.
So I brought a lovely photo of an iris a friend took and started
drawing it on my paper canvas. I would sit in the beautiful sun and
listen to birds while enjoying the quiet that comes from my sons being
at home with dad for a couple hours.

In that office works a wonderful woman named Ellen - she's a
congressman for Tom Tancredo (who is stepping down this term). I
would stop by her office to chat about her beautiful grandaughter, and
about all the opportunities she's been able to give high school
students in Colorado to have the chance to show their artwork at the
White house every year. She's a terrific woman!

A call came out to find an artist last minute to paint an ornament
that would hang in the Blue Room this Christmas (2008) and she thought
of me and my iris and gave me a call. I gladly took on the project
(although the honor of that call is still sinking in as I type this).
When I went to drop of the ornament she whisked me off to Tom
Tancredo's office and took pictures of us with the ornament (I'll post
those later) and we sent the ornament Fed Ex. The pictures are in an
album linked here:

http://picasaweb.google.com/tina.nordloh/BlueRoomChristmasOrnament2008?authkey=24jQvu_UAy4#

The unveiling of the white house theme is at this link, and just as
Laura Bush walks up to the tree the camera catches a glimpse of my
ornament as it pans across, and then again when it pans up, and then a
closer shot that just glances when it pans onto their faces just
before they start to look at the rest of that amazing tree. 369 hand painted ornaments from each states district that participated are on that tree. See the interview and the beauty of how
they've decorated here:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/12/03/earlyshow/main4644959.shtml

I'm not sure where this will lead - I just know I'm going to keep
painting and drawing. I just recall when I joined this group how
terrified I was to draw - now I draw for the love of it! I wouldn't
be at this point in my life if it weren't for Aritst Way and my desire to be an artist!!

Orginization

2008-12-03T06:18:00.000-08:00

So here I am with 5 projects in my lap all due around the same time. I'm beyond busy, and feel like I'm caught in a tornado. I'm learning to organize - but I have a hard time keeping it all up to date due to being busy. I'm curious how other people make it look so easy. Daily planners, books, calendars, and all that jazz just seem to keep me going in circles when I'm not grounded in what I'm doing. Maby it's the case of too many pieces of paper - perhaps I just need to clear my desk, write a hard copy and a computer reminder and leave it at that. Sounds simple - would help if I could find my hard copy version - it seems to have taken a train to Shanghai. Messy house, messy schedule - and too much to do. *looks around frustrated* I'm not sure whom I should apply the theoretical whip to - me, my children, my husband - or all of the above - and where exactly I get this whip from. Anyone know where you find an invisible non painful effective "whip em into shape" whip?? Perhaps Harry Potter would know, or maby my friendly house elves.

To be honest though - I'm enjoying the need to keep creating. I'm self driven now - but with a place to drive to! It makes a wonderful difference.

A toast to all those truly organized people - may I learn your wonderful talent!!

Good Morning

2008-12-02T05:29:00.000-08:00

Wow that was interesting, I enabled translations on the settings page and it turned all I wrote into Hindi - which would be fine if I could read it to proofread my sentences. To me it looks like beautiful scribbles - which is what english must look like to someone who is Hindi that enabled the English translator. Ahh well - made the morning interesting for certain - and it's not nearly time to get up yet *grins*.

Yesterday was my 13th wedding anniversary - as usual we didn't prepare and it snuck up on us. Not sure why, but it always does - maby it's the nature of how we got married. We got engaged in April, and set the date for August 24th - the day came and went, as did 8 others, and finally on December 1 I looked at my beloved and said "Are you going to marry me or not?" So we went right then down to the Justice of the Peace, got married and walked out with a nice little care package that couldn't even pretend to prepare a person for what marriage really is - but I was able to do a few loads of laundry with the handy laundry soap that was in it. Then we picked up a computer that we had gotten fixed and went home. A year later we had a beautiful reception at a Dinner Theater playing the comedy "A Winter Rose" which was fitting in my mind since my dress had a red boddice and a white multi layered whispy skirt. To me on that night I was the winter rose, even on that incredibly trecherous ice we had to walk on to get to the theater.

From there to hear has been an interesting ride. I didn't start drawing until we'd been married 3 years - now 10 years later I'm still drawing, and enjoying it now. I'm busy, busier than I ever have been with my artwork - but I'm drawing consistantly and loving it. There is so much in my life I am thankful for - and a big one is to the artists around me in various fields for doing what they do. My influences had alot to do with who I am now, the choices I've made to become who I am. People like Whoopee Goldburg, Robin Williams, The book Enders Game, The author Piers Anthony -and his numerous works (I still want a shoe tree for my garden!!) Every jeweler that ever made anything sparkly (I'm part Racoon with an intense love of shiney things - not jewelry - shiney things - you know - giltter, crystals, water in a clear glass and of course the main ingredient - wonderful sunshine) There are many influences - Authors, artists, actors, music - oooh music. I can't help but move when music plays - especially if it has a nice beat. I don't like violence in anything I watch - save for vampire movies. I also don't like it in the music I hear = all this hate rap, and kill em dead rap - can't stand it. Just makes me sick that the music influences you to pick up a tire iron and wack someone just because your pissed off. Our prisons are too full of tire iron sluggers - we don't need to make our children follow their footsteps. I prefer Enya, Loreena McKennit, Journey, Eagles, Madonna, Meatloaf and a ton more - of which escape me in my sleepy stated mind at the moment.

Eclectic, deffinatly tags me as a 30 something white chic - but I don't care. I am who I am, and I create as I create. I also appreciate art - all kinds, all different walks of life. The thing that gives me the most pleasure though, is I encourage art of all kinds - regardless of race, religion, creed, or what have you. If you like to create - do it. You don't have to bare your soul in every picture - just make something from your heart!!

Welcome to my new Blog!

2008-11-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

I am an artist, a creative soul. I am also a mom, a wife, a friend and a sister. I follow the Artist Way closely, and have found a new wonderful world out there that is currently greeting me with open arms. It wasn't always like that - when I started this path I was terrified to pick up a pencil. The below is what I just posted to a wonderful Artist Way Blog called Path of Heart - but it clearly states where my mind and heart are today, and I thought it would fit well here, on my first post. I have a website - http://www.TRCreations.com if you wish to see what I do as an artist. One of the concepts as an artist that Julia Cameron talks about in her books is the idea that when you have a dream you follow it - it feels like your jumping off a cliff - the trick is to have faith that there will be a net there to catch you and help you on the next step towards being creative, and successful. I have had that net catch me lately, and am jumping to another one in this stage of my artistic career. I am a new artist - and glad to have the faith to say it!

*************************************

Today I find myself thankful that I picked up AW so many years ago. Thankful I have so many beautiful people to share my life and my creative spirit with. It's been a wild spiral path to where I am. I started afraid, terrified of my monsters, and blocked from head to toe. I have slain several of those monsters now, and with each defeat I have found more confidence in myself. I have shorn the negative destructive people from my life, or found a way to make peace with them in my own heart. Now my path has taken a different texture, flavor, and overall feel. I am working with a publisher in regards to my illustrations, my angel ornaments have been well received and will be offered year round in a store here where I live. Both of these were answers to my requests to the universe to help me further where I wanted to be.

Now different monsters are popping up - they don't have a form I can defeat just yet - but they will as I journal every morning. These are quieter less obvious - and punch really hard where it hurts. I am balancing my family and my art career - one of my scary topics. The whole concept of am I a good mom, and a good artist - can I really do both? I'm having my theories put to the test now and it's scary, but I know the path I have walked, and I know the results. I keep my staff handy to beat at the shadows as I learn how to deal with one my greatests weaknesses - how to organize my time effectively. The wonderful thing though is that I find my children walking beside me - watching me be accepted by the community, the art guild and the businesses that like what I do. My oldest has designed bookmarks, my youngest is working at creating businesses where he is the boss(they are 6 and 8). The celebrate my success, and hug me when I fail. My incredible husband backs me up 2000% - I know I am a lucky woman!

I have pictures to make, angels to create, rock candy experiements to do with my boys, personal time with my husband - and now time with my new found friends. Fear has glued me to the couch for too long - it's time to get up and greet my new friends with a loving heart and allow their support to wash over me. My hands are shaking, fear is bubbling in the corner of my heart - but I welcome it now - it means I'm standing on a ledge about to jump - I wonder what color the net will be this time - I know it will be there.