Wax Resist - Material Musings - Project 2

 

Join us for the next part in the Wax Resist Series on my Channel, sharing how I work on one of my projects and the techniques used to create a wax resist/batik piece.

You can catch the first episode below

You can catch us live in the chat, stitch along with me and have fun creating.  I will also be sharing the main project that I am working on.

Looking forward to seeing you in the studio. 🤩

Wax Resist Projects - Join us for Material Musings

 

Working on a wax resist project, come and join us now in the live chat, where I will be answering any questions you may have on the project.

Come and join us!

Leaf Arts - Day 7 Reflection and Encouragement

 

Day 7: Reflection and Encouragement

I have really enjoyed this creative journey looking at the different ways that you can create on dried leaves. I invite you to take what you’ve learned and bring your own artistic voice into the process. 

Working with leaves as a medium is both grounding and inspiring, connecting us to nature while pushing creative boundaries. If you’re excited to explore this art form, don’t forget that my Leaf Art Course is available 

Learn More and Enroll Today!

Thank you for following along this week—I’d love to hear which technique inspired you the most! Leave a comment below and share your creative journey!

Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

Want to Learn How to Create with Leaves?

If you’re curious about working with dried leaves as an artistic surface, I teach techniques that allow you to incorporate them into your own projects. My Leaf Art Course covers everything from preparation to design, giving you the tools to explore this unique medium with confidence.

Sign up before February 16th 11.59pm to take advantage of the discounted price! 

Learn More and Enroll Today!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for the next featured design in this exciting week of leaf art exploration!

CHECK OUT THE LEAF ARTS COURSE HERE

Creating Clusters and Layering Technique - Day 6 - Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

 

Day 6: Layering Techniques 

Layering multiple techniques—stitching, painting, and burning—allows each element to shine while complementing the others. 

There are some fun ways to bring the small leaf clusters together to create some interesting designs.

Today’s piece show how using some of the skills taught can help you create a rich and dimensional work of art. 

Tomorrow, we wrap up the series by reflecting on the process and encouraging you to experiment with your own leaf art creations.

Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

Want to Learn How to Create with Leaves?

If you’re curious about working with dried leaves as an artistic surface, I teach techniques that allow you to incorporate them into your own projects. My Leaf Art Course covers everything from preparation to design, giving you the tools to explore this unique medium with confidence.

Learn More and Enroll Today!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for the next featured design in this exciting week of leaf art exploration!

CHECK OUT THE LEAF ARTS COURSE HERE

Woodburning Designs onto Leaves: Day 4 Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

 

Day 4: Woodburning Designs onto Leaves

Woodburning on leaves is an intricate process that requires a gentle touch. By etching fine lines and patterns into the surface, I create a beautifully rustic effect that highlights the leaf’s organic qualities. 

You can get a range of patterns and designs by using the different heads that you get with the wood burning tool, but you also need to know how to adapt the tool so you can use it to the maximum and achieve different looks.

Tomorrow, I’ll share how painting and mixed media techniques can further enhance these natural canvases.

Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

Want to Learn How to Create with Leaves?

If you’re curious about working with dried leaves as an artistic surface, I teach techniques that allow you to incorporate them into your own projects. My Leaf Art Course covers everything from preparation to design, giving you the tools to explore this unique medium with confidence.

Learn More and Enroll Today!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for the next featured design in this exciting week of leaf art exploration!

CHECK OUT THE LEAF ARTS COURSE HERE

Weaving Across the Surface: Day 3 Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

 

Day 3: Weaving Across the Surface

Combining fibers and dried leaves brings a whole new dimension to mixed media art. In today’s designs, I’ve used weaving techniques to add layers of texture and depth.  It is quite a meditative act, weaving on a material so delicate - you are forced to slow down and take it all in as you work.

The result that you can achieve are gorgeous, it is amazing to think that you can fuse nature and fiber art in this way. With the varieties of yarn and threads, the possibilities and combinations are endless.

In tomorrow’s post, I’ll introduce woodburning as a way to carve delicate patterns onto leaves, and share some of my designs.

Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

Want to Learn How to Create with Leaves?

If you’re curious about working with dried leaves as an artistic surface, I teach techniques that allow you to incorporate them into your own projects. My Leaf Art Course covers everything from preparation to design, giving you the tools to explore this unique medium with confidence.

Learn More and Enroll Today!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for the next featured design in this exciting week of leaf art exploration!

CHECK OUT THE LEAF ARTS COURSE HERE

Crochet on Leaves - Day 2 Exploring Sea Grape Leaf Art

 

Day 2: Crochet on Leaves

Crochet isn’t just for fabric - it can beautifully frame and enhance natural surfaces. Today’s piece features crochet work on the sea grape leaves, giving a lace-like effect on the leaves. 

This technique adds strength while keeping the organic elegance of the leaf intact. By adding different color yarn and fibers you can create different looks.  I also use the crochet to join leaves together.

Tomorrow, I’ll be sharing examples of my weaving on leaves!

Want to Learn How to Create with Leaves?

If you’re curious about working with dried leaves as an artistic surface, I teach techniques that allow you to incorporate them into your own projects. My Leaf Art Course covers everything from preparation to design, giving you the tools to explore this unique medium with confidence.

Learn More and Enroll Today!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for the next featured design in this exciting week of leaf art exploration!

CHECK OUT THE LEAF ARTS COURSE HERE

The Fun Continues: Create Your Own Cardboard Bookcases!

 

The Creating with Cardboard Course has been an absolute joy so far! Watching participants transform simple, everyday cardboard into beautiful, functional bookshelves has been nothing short of inspiring. Each creation is unique, filled with personality, and showcases just how much fun recycling can be when combined with creativity!

The Early Bird Special has been extended to the 15th February!

If you haven’t joined yet, great news—the early bird special has been extended to 15th February! Now’s the perfect time to jump in and start crafting your own custom bookshelf. Whether you want a miniature bookshelf a whimsical storage space, or a decorative shelf for your favorite trinkets, this course will teach you what you need to know.

Why Not Gift a Creative Experience? 

Looking for a unique and meaningful gift? Instead of another store-bought item, why not give the gift of creativity? A gifted spot in this course is perfect for anyone who loves hands-on projects, sustainability, or exploring new art techniques. Whether it’s for a crafty friend, a family member, or even yourself (because self-care through creativity is important too!), this class is a wonderful way to spark inspiration.

What’s Inside the Course?

• Step-by-step tutorials to create and decorate your own cardboard bookshelf
• Creative techniques using paint, collage, and other mixed media elements
• Sustainable crafting tips—learn how to repurpose materials in fun and artistic ways
• Bonus content! Extra videos and ideas to personalize your bookshelf, create miniature art journals and more.

Sign up before 15th February to take advantage of the early bird price and start creating today!

Join the Creative with Cardboard Course Now!  Sign Up Here

Art Journals that now have a new home!

We Came on Merchant Ships Exhibition - June 2023

I was selected to be part of an exhibition called We Came on Merchant Ships, at the Queen's Park Gallery as part of the Central Bank of Barbados Crop Over Visual Arts Exhibition. It is Open throughout the Season of Emancipation, this exhibition explores the rich history and cultural contributions of the African diaspora.

This is the first of the 3-part series, We Came on Merchant Ships – Movement and examines movement with the works of 29 artists showcased through paintings, sculptures, mixed media pieces, installations and more. It captures the reasons why people move, modalities for movement and the various cultural manifestations of migration – forced and free – with a special emphasis placed on the transatlantic slave trade.

The Exhibition was curated Oneka Small, and runs to the 22nd June 2023

Here you can see a gallery of the opening event and the art work on display.  I will share in another post the work that I have on display and let you know a bit about their story.

You can also see some of my work on my website HERE

Join me on Patreon for the 7 Day FREE Trial - CHECK IT OUT HERE

Unlocking The Magic of Stitching in Nature

 

I am constantly fascinated by the intricate and unique designs that can be achieved working on the leaves. It's incredible to see how the texture and color of a dried leaf can be transformed into a beautiful work of art with just a few simple stitches and other creative techniques.

Out of the leaves I have tried so far I particularly enjoy working with the Sea Grape leaf, which dries into a rich, deep tan or reddy-brown color. Using this leaf as my canvas, I began my slow stitching process by adding some basic stitches around the leaf.

As I progressed with my stitching, I felt inspired to add more details to the piece. I used a wood burning tool to create a series of intricate holes that would serve as decorative elements. The combination of the stitches and the burn holes created a stunning visual effect that really brings the piece to life.

What I love about this process is that it allows me to create art out of resources that I have readily available in my garden. The final result is a beautiful and unique piece that showcases the natural beauty of the dried leaf.

I invite you to watch the video of the process and take a look at the images of the completed piece. You'll be amazed at how something as simple as slow stitching on a dried leaf can create such a stunning work of art.

Thank you for joining me for Material Mondays.  Check out some of the other designs that I have done on leaves.

Weaving a design into the leaf

Working with leaves and Fabric

Ready to make some BADASS art? One BADASS Art Journal 2023

 

If you have never taken the One Badass Art Journal workshops here is some background information for you, we hope you join us!  I have the pleasure of joining such a great group of creatives for another year. 

Q: What is the One BADASS Art Journal course?

A: The One BADASS Art Journal course is a workshop that provides 17 mixed media lessons and 16 instructors, designed to inspire and teach individuals to create, learn, feel confident and provide them with the techniques and inspiration to feel BADASS when they make art.  The theme for the One BADASS Art Journal course in 2023 is "CHALLENGE YOUR INNER BADASS."

Q: What kind of lessons will be included in the One BADASS Art Journal course?

A: The One BADASS Art Journal course includes 17 lessons, including a book making lesson, other classes will teach individuals about mixed media techniques, tips and tricks, and techniques that you can take into your creative practice.  

My session looks at challenging ourselves to take time out - think about the things that mean a lot to us - what are your favorite things to do? And try and incorporate this into an art journal and more importantly into our day-to-day lives.

Q: Is there a discount for the One BADASS Art Journal course?

A: Yes, there is a 20% discount available for the One BADASS Art Journal course when you use the code CREATE20 at checkout.

Q: What are the benefits of taking the One BADASS Art Journal course?

A: The benefits of taking the One BADASS Art Journal course include learning mixed media techniques, tips and tricks, and techniques for beautiful color combinations, watercolor, blending and so much more. You will also be infused with confidence, creativity and inspiration, and will have access to a supportive community. Additionally, you will have the chance to play with a variety of tools, adding to your skills and have the opportunity to challenge and step outside your comfort zone.

We hope you join us.  To learn more about the artists - Click HERE

Mixed Media Play Date Online Course

Mixed Media Play Date. Giveaway and 

Teacher Intros. Day One!

I am so thrilled to share with you that I will be one of the guest teachers on the the Mixed Media Play Date hosted by Tiare Smith. As teachers we all want to help you put PLAY in your art and your day!

Tiare has assembled an AMAZING group of artist instructors to do just that, and we are gonna fill your creative wells with inspiring ideas, Fun, JOY and gratitude!

The Mixed Media Play Date - a new mixed media collaboration will bring you endless inspiration,  fun, freedom in your creativity and a community like no other.  I have taught on a number of courses hosted by Tiare Smith, and you are guaranteed to come out of your comfort zone, find your happy places and pick up so many hints and tips and fun from day one.

There will also be LIVE STREAMED MIXED MEDIA PLAY DATES 

and PAJAMA PARTIES and MORE!!!!

 LEARN MORE HERE!

We all worry about finding enough time to create, and our inner critics voice can often get overwhelming, but as your guides we are here to help you tune into your inner voice, guide you as you see new things in your art and creativity, we will be your companions, supporters and cheer leaders, it will be a friendly place for you to be yourself and thrive!

Daily Giveaways!!!

Do you want to WIN A FREE Year Long Spot on this Online Course with Us?

To enter (each action gives you an additional chance to be entered):

• Sign up to my Mailing list
• Follow and Like my Facebook Page
• Subscribe to my YouTube
• Follow on Instagram
• Share this blog post and use #amandatrought so I can find it

Contest closes Monday 26th November at Midnight (AST) 

Each day up to December 1, Tiare will be introducing you to a different Artist Instructor,  and we will be making daily giveaways, so you will have extra opportunities to win a spot by visiting each artist!!

I will be sharing more about the course and share some hints and tips on the 21st November and over the next 7 days. So be sure to check back HERE to have an extra chance to 

enter and see who is sharing for that day.

Stay blessed and be a blessing

Update - Survival and Triumph Online Auction - 24th Sept - 2nd October 2017

I am thrilled to have been chosen to be part of the online auction called Survival and Triumph.  The auction will occur from September 24th Noon EST to October 2nd at 3pm EST.

Me, Myself and I - Mixed Media Art

The artists include:

Donna Davies Timm, Lauren Rudolph,, Annie Hamman, Jennifer Bonneteau, Lara Provost, Renata Loree, Jennifer Albin, Lynda Fortin King, Mystele Kirkeeng, Donna L. Martin, Katrina Koltes, Jenny Doh, Dana Primrose Bloede and ME!  I feel honored to be part of the line up.

Each day there will be two artists. Dates for each artist are a surprise. Our auctions will run from 12 noon (first day), 1pm EST each day thereafter to 11:30 am EST the following day. Then the next two artists will begin at 1pm EST noon until all 14 artists are featured. Each artist will have approximately 15-25 pieces up for auction.

The auction is being hosted by Stephanie Gagos on Facebook and she has been sharing some of the work so far that will be included in the auction.

Here is a few of my pieces so far, I will be sharing more over the next few weeks.  If you would like to attend the auction you can do so HERE

Engage - Mixed Media Art Sculpture 

Remember to check out the other artists.  Our work is being shared on a daily basis on the Facebook group, and we would love to have you attend.

Me, Myself and I - Mixed Media Art

Anonymous Charity Art Show - starts today!

The Event

I will be taking part in the Anonymous Charity Art Show again this year, which is run by the The Frame & Art Co

I have submitted 6 pieces to this charity event and it would be great to have you come out and join us, if your anywhere near Barbados! You will be able to see art and purchase art from a great list of artists.

The 'Anonymous' Charity Art Show Opens TODAY between 5.30pm and 8.30pm and continues to 14th January 2017 and you will be able to see over 150 original paintings.

The Art

Each painting is created on 12” x 12” canvases and in a variety of styles and subject matter, and will be sold for $350 Bds each.  The artists will remain a mystery until after the purchase.  This is amazing value for an original work of art, and with Christmas and birthdays and other celebratory events coming up they do make beautiful gifts.  

In fact why wait until you have a reason, you don't need a reason to purchase art, at the end of the day it is a great way to support artists and raise funds for charity as well.

The Charity

A portion of the proceeds will go towards the Nature Fun Ranch, run by Corey A Lane, which helps young people with their personal development, by cultivating positive outlooks. The ranch allows young people to speak freely with one another about important topics, including HIV/AIDS, providing them with a positive focus to guide their lives in the right direction, in a rural setting while tending to horses, working vegetable patches, or managing fish hatcheries.

Artists participating

Here is a list of the artists participating in this exhibition, some are established artists and some are up and coming - including yours truly there in the mix as well! : 

Akilah Watts, Alanis Forde, Alexandra Hanschell, Alison Chapman Andrews, Amanda Springer, Ancel Daniel, Andy Peirce, Angela Simpson, Anika Millington, Anna Gibson, Barbara Pickering Caroline Gill, Carol Dawn Hunte, Cathy Alkins, Cherise Harris, Christine Farmer, Corrie Scott, Darla Trotman, Donald Johnson Erika Haddad, Elizabeth McKenzie, Gail Oelmann, Heather Dawn Scott, Heather Meyer, Heidi Berger, Helen Tulip, Jackie Philip Jared Burton, Jean Blades, Jeanne Morgan, Julianne Gill, Julia Seymour, Justin Downey, Justin Small, Katherine Kennedy, Kate Hoenen, Keyonne Yarde, Kristine Choy, Linda Hallwood, Linda Tudor, Loralie Seymour, Lorna Rose, Lorna Wilson, Maria Stanford, Mario Holder, Markley Clarke, Michael Alkins, Michelle Bowe Moreen Beale, Morissa Singh, Natalie Atkins-Hinds, Norma Farmer, Patricia Hernandez, Penny Rollitt, Rachel Mouttet, Rosalie Chiara Roseanne Milligan, Rosemary Ellis, Rosemary Parkinson, Shanika Grimes, Shari Garnes, Sian Pampellone, Simply Saffie, Stella Hackett, Sue Williams, Susan Alleyne Forde, Tanya Foster, Wayne Hinds, Yasmin Vizcarrando and Yolande Lewis.

I am looking forward to seeing you there, it will be great!  If you cannot make it today, make sure that you take the time to visit the gallery you have until 14th January 2017!

She went into the city - I'm Backkkkk!

She came to the city - Mixed media Art - Realityarts

Wow, it has been a while since I have posted, I can't quite believe that time has flown so quickly.  I seem to have so many things on the last two months that I got lost in it all and before you knew it we are at the end of September. 

I do enjoy sharing my posts and things I get up to and will be getting my groove back on and showing you some 'how to' videos using different materials and creating out of recycled materials.  I will share in my next post what I got up to and photos and over the next few weeks share my updated blog schedule to keep you inspired and encouraged and taking a chance - stepping out in faith as you embrace your creative self.  I have more teaching and workshops to share, and more!

This is a painting and video process that I did back in August, and it shows 'Lady Peace' entering the city.  We need peace right now around the world and it takes all of us to bring that to a reality.  We have to call out injustices in all walks of life, in all communities, business, society, it cannot be tolerated.

She came to the city - Mixed media art

We each have within us a unique spark, a gift and treasure that is to share with others around the world.  Don't be hating on others, deal with what you have, don't compare yourself to another, you don't know what they went through to get to where they are - but you have an incredible gift, you just need to know how to use it.

She came to the city to spread peace, love, grace, mercy and hope.  Stay blessed and be a blessing!

Creating on a Budget - Fabric Vase

So sorry that I haven't been around here on my blog.  I have lots to share over the coming weeks about things that I have been getting involved with.  It is great to be able to share some of the opportunities that have come about and as they bless me I hope to be able to bless you as well.

I have been playing around with different materials in the studio, looking at ways in which you can create art especially when your on a budget.  I have a range of projects on my blog that where I have used recycled materials that can be transformed into a work of art and so thought I create a series of a few more things that you can make.  I will rearranging my blog to make some of the projects more accessible, and there will be step by step projects, so please do come back.  Also sign up for my newsletter - the first issue will be out in July, and there will be lots of hints and tips to help you on your creative journey

Fabric Coated Vase

I found some mini vases at my local dollar store.  It can be a great place to find things that you can transform and utilize in your studio, and I have loads of cool projects coming up. 

The original surface of the vase was a lightly engraved but nothing to write home about, so I decided to change them.

I created a face from a mold out of clay and attached using paper clay (another thing I will show you how to make), I then tore up strips of fabric and armed with my powertex (one of my favorite supplies at the moment), coated the fabric and then applied to the vase.

 As the fabric dried I also wrapped it with string to give it additional texture.  Once it all dried I highlighted areas with gold and bronze paint.  I have a video of the vase coming up on my YouTube channel so check there to see it up and personal lol!

I love it, and think it looks quite cool.  I have two more that I will be altering and sharing with you over the coming weeks. 

Fabric Coated Vase - Amanda Trought

Stay blessed and be a blessing!

While your at it check out Craftsy online courses, there are some free ones