Welcome October - Material Musings - Small Projects - A busy month!!

 

Well October is here, and it has brought with it a lot of creative projects that I hope you will be able to take part in some.  You can dip in and out as you choose with the main focus of doing something creative each and every day.  Check out the most recent Material Musings, we will be sharing a new one in the next few days, an update of the stitched project.

Fodder Challenge

Today also kicked off the start of the Fodder Challenge - With a lesson given by Tracey Wozniak, you can get all the information about joining Fodder School HERE

I had great fun creating the watercolor mushrooms and made quite a few varieties of mushrooms, will need to add them to my creative projects.  The techniques learnt were also fun.

I will be sharing as many projects that I can do for the month and I am also excited to share the project that I created which you will be able to catch next week.

Creative Gardener

As it is Tuesday my Creative Gardening post normally comes out and I recently did an update on my Aloe plants, that seem to be growing at an alarming rate.  You can check out the video below.

There has been a lot of other growth in the garden, and I will do a garden tour towards the end of the month.

Gratitude Junk Journal - Early Bird

We have an early bird rate on our Gratitude Junk Journal, which I am teaching in.  If you would like to get 20% off then enter the code AMORE24  at the checkout.

Learn More About Gratitude Journal HERE

Art Resource Hub

Every month in the Art Resource Hub I share a FREE digital Download, for your creative projects, here is the one for October:

Blog Challenge

Finally, I am part of the Ultimate Blog Challenge, and so will be sharing with you about all the wonderful creative adventures I find myself on for the month of October (just what have I let myself in for I ask myself) We are going to be pushed to another creative level, I think.

3 Reasons to Spend Time Being Creative

3 Reasons to Spend Time Being Creative

Finding moments to express our creativity can be so refreshing and rewarding especially when we are bombarded on all sides for our attention. Here are three reasons why spending time with art supplies is a great way to enhance your life:

Boosts Mental Health and Well-being

Engaging in creative activities like drawing, painting, or sculpting can significantly improve your mental health. It provides a therapeutic outlet to release stress and express emotions. Studies have shown that art can reduce anxiety and depression, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. 

Enhances Cognitive Abilities

Using art supplies stimulates the brain. Whether you're sketching a landscape or assembling a collage, the process challenges your mind to think creatively and explore new perspectives. This mental exercise can improve your overall cognitive flexibility, making you better able to tackle your everyday challenges with creative solutions.

Encourages Self-Expression and Personal Growth

Art is a powerful form of self-expression that allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and ideas that might be difficult to articulate with words. It enables self-discovery and personal growth, helping you understand yourself better and communicate more authentically. As you experiment with different mediums and techniques, you also build confidence in your abilities and develop a unique artistic voice.

When you incorporate creative activities into your routine with your art supplies it not only enriches your life but also nurtures your mind and spirit. So, pick up those brushes, markers, or clay, and let your imagination soar!

Check out some of Artezas Art Supplies, and discounts on Amazon HERE

Arteza's Art Supplies

Join us HERE on Realityarts Academy for FREE art courses and resources. 

Creative Weekend - Starts Here

What creative activities are you planning for this weekend.

If you would like a few hints and tips, I will provide you with 5 creative activities that you can do in a weekend. You can get all the family involved, or this might be something you do for a quiet moment.

Here Are 5 Creative ideas that you can think about doing:

1. DIY Studio Decor

Spend the weekend revamping your creative space with a few DIY projects. From creating your own art mood board for inspiration or upcycling old furniture that will help with your materials/tool storage, think about projects that you can do in a couple of hours or an afternoon.

2. Nature Inspired

Cole my dog loves being in the garden

Take your creative endeavors outside and set up an easel in a nearby park or your own garden. Let the beauty of nature inspire your artwork as you paint landscapes, flowers, or any other scene that catches your eye. Take a look at the colors and the subtle differences in shade. See if you can recreate this using your art supplies.  Come and join me in the garden for additional inspiration HERE

3. Free Art Courses

Take a look at the selection of FREE courses on my course platform and why not try them out using different supplies, and see how you can vary the results.  Courses can be found HERE

4. DIY Craft Projects

Unleash your artistic side with DIY craft projects - these are small projects that you can personalize and create small batches that can be given as gifts or when you are sending out one of your art pieces. You could try making handmade cards, or creating your own jewelry. These hands-on activities are not only enjoyable but also allow you to express your creativity in unique ways.

5. Photography Expedition

Grab your camera or your phone and set out on a photography expedition in your city or a nearby scenic spot, or again wander around your garden seeing what amazing animals or plants you can capture.

These creative ideas offer a mix of artistic, culinary, and outdoor activities to make your weekend both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling. Whether you choose to work on these projects alone or involve your family, exploring your creative side can lead to a weekend full of inspiration and self-expression.

Come and check out some of the FREE Mixed Media courses on my Course platform. You can check them out HERE

Arts and Wellness Cafe - Compassion

Come and join me in the Arts and Wellness Cafe

In our creative journey, it's crucial to approach ourselves and our projects with a compassionate mindset. Here are three ways we can infuse compassion into our creative endeavors:

Investing in Ourselves with Value

Education plays an important role in our growth, and investing in our own learning demonstrates self-worth. There are many programs and resources available that can accommodate different financial circumstances.  These include: bursaries, sponsorships, skills exchange and more,  By valuing our own growth, we communicate to others that we prioritize self-improvement.  Check out the Art Resource Hub for a range of opportunities listed every month. Learn More

Embracing Diverse Sources of Inspiration

Compassion towards ourselves involves recognizing the many influences that shape our creativity. While mentors within our field are invaluable, we can also find inspiration from diverse sources beyond our immediate discipline. Whether it's learning productivity techniques or wisdom from authors and their autobiographies, each resource contributes to our development. Embracing these varied influences honors our individual journey and encourages a compassionate approach to self-growth.

Encouraging Experimentation and Interpretation

Compassion in creativity extends to embracing experimentation and personal interpretation. As we learn techniques and skills, we allow ourselves the freedom to adapt and fosters a nurturing environment for growth, while sharing our experiences and encouraging others to explore their creative gifts and abilities.

I would love you to join me in the studio and check out the video where we look at some examples and additional ideas. Learn More

Before You Go:

Remember to enjoy the journey!

Get this months FREE digital Download Papers HERE

Free Digital Downloads - Jan - Dec 2023 - 7 More days

 

Every month on my course platform I give away a digital download, for you to use in your creative projects.  January - December 23 will be available until the 7th January 2024

You can access the digital downloads HERE

A new download for January 2024 will be available in the next couple of days, so come and join us!

Ignite Your Motivation and Creative Spark

Welcome to the Arts and Wellness Cafe! What's in your cup today? As you sip your favorite drink to unwind, we're about to embark on a journey of motivation and creativity. I have been growing herbs and medicinal plants, like fresh bay leaves, right in my garden for a while now and I make sure that I use them in my tea and cooking, and it makes such a difference to my overall well-being. In today's video we look at ways in which we can stay motivated using our creativity, and today, I want to explore these themes with you in this post as well.

Cultivating Motivation

Motivation is the driving force behind our creative endeavors. It's what keeps us going even when we face doubts or creative blocks. I've found that motivation isn't just about pushing through challenging times but also about setting up your own toolkit for those moments when you need a creative boost.

Creating Your Toolkit for Motivation

Think of your creative journey and be prepared to create a toolkit for yourself.  It filled with inspiring ideas and activities. Here are some tips to consider:

• Variety is Key - Have a range of creative activities at your disposal. Whether it's painting, writing, or crafting, having options allows you to choose what resonates with you in the moment.

• Journaling - A journal can be a powerful tool for reflection and motivation. You can use it to jot down your thoughts, set goals, and even draw or paint when words fail you.

• Playlists of Inspiration - Music has a profound impact on our emotions. Create playlists of songs that lift your spirits and help you get back into the creative flow.

• Creative Breaks - Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery or a short, creative activity to refresh your mind. Carry a portable project with you, like a small art journal, to seize those spare moments for creativity.

• Self-Made Cards - Craft encouraging cards for yourself. Fill them with inspirational quotes, messages, or simple words of motivation. Keep these cards handy for when you need a boost.

Fueling Your Creative Fire

The Art of Doodling and Mini Projects

I've found that breaking down creative activities into smaller, more manageable tasks can be immensely motivating. For example, I create small squares of art that I can work on when I have a few minutes to spare. These squares can be filled with doodles, drawings, or patterns. They serve as an excellent way to keep the creative juices flowing and give you a sense of accomplishment, even in short bursts of time. 

Challenges and Overcoming Creative Blocks

Creative challenges are a natural part of the artistic journey. They can manifest as moments of self-doubt, lack of inspiration, or feeling lost in a creative fog. During these times, it's crucial to fall back on your creative toolkit . Take time to reflect, relax, and rekindle your creative spark. Remember, challenges are opportunities to grow and discover new aspects of your creativity.

Creating for Yourself

While sharing your creations with the world is wonderful, don't forget to make art just for yourself. I create wearable art and art journals that are just for my use to play in. They are a space where you can explore and experiment without any external expectations.

Recycling and Repurposing

Don't underestimate the power of recycling and repurposing materials - you probably have a lot of the supplies you need take a good look around, you just have to change your perspective and have an inquisitive mind.   You can check out the video HERE

Before you go

Motivation and creativity go hand in hand. Your toolkit should be filled with activities and practices that fuel your creative fire. Embrace the power of mini projects, altering them where necessary to keep your creative juices flowing even in the busiest of times. Challenges are part of the journey, and they offer opportunities for growth. Remember to create for yourself, enjoy the process, and let your creativity shine.  Thank you for joining me, and I look forward to sharing more creative adventures with you.  Stay blessed and be a blessing!

What are You doing on Wednesday 18th October 10am EST - Join us and be part of an international 'Art In'

Sign up to my Mailing list for further details HERE

Unleash Your Creativity - Start Creating Today!

 

Do you ever feel like you're constantly running out of time, juggling multiple tasks and commitments, and simply don't have enough time to express your creativity? If so, you're not alone, I used to moan about not having time to create. 

Many of us struggle to find the time and space to let our creative juices flow. But what if I told you that all you need is a little bit of time, space and a bit of preparation?

A selection of elements cover this art journal

Creativity is not about having unlimited resources or vast expanses of free time and if you are waiting around for that 'day' it will never come. Instead, think about making the most of the resources and time you do have, no matter how limited they may seem. You'd be surprised at what you can create in just a few minutes of focused, uninterrupted time.

You don't have to be a professional artist or writer to be creative. Creativity comes in many forms and can be expressed in countless ways. Whether it's doodling on a art journal, listening to some music (and dancing like no ones watching), or experimenting with a new recipe, there's no limit to what you can create.

Give yourself at least 10 minutes to get the ball rolling. Set aside this time for yourself, free from distractions and interruptions. Use this time to tap into your inner creativity and let your imagination run wild. You might just surprise yourself with what you come up with!

Embellished art journal page

Check out the Embellishments video which will show you how to create your own embellishments for your art journal or creative projects. In this way you are creating elements for future use and they are there when you need them or if you only have a short time to create. You can also find ways to create pockets of time that you are able to dip into.

There's no better time than now to start creating. It's time to stop letting time constraints and busy schedules hold you back, you have to schedule your daily creative time, and you won't regret it. Embrace your creativity and enjoy the journey that brings immense satisfaction and joy.

Check out some ways to embellish your art journal

Creativity isn't about perfection. It's about expression, exploration, and most importantly, enjoying the process. So see where the journey takes you. You might just find that you have more time for creativity than you thought.

I have a wide variety of videos on my channel and you can get some tips on creating your own backgrounds and working in your art journals, along with the many other free classes and resources that you will find in the Arts Resource Hub.

3 Creative Tips for Carers: Nurturing Yourself in the Caring Role

Introduction

Being a caregiver is a role filled with love, compassion, and dedication, but it can also be incredibly demanding and emotionally taxing. In this blog post, we'll explore three creative tips for carers that not only encourage self-care but also enhance the caregiving experience.

As someone who has cared for a loved one with dementia, I understand the importance of finding moments of respite and self-expression. As we look at these tips think about how you can incorporate creativity in your own journey.

Tip 1: Embrace Creative Activities for Self-Renewal

As a caregiver, it's easy to get caught up in the daily routine of providing care for your loved one. However, it's crucial to remember that taking care of yourself is just as important. One way to achieve this is by embracing creative activities that allow you to express yourself and find solace in the midst of your responsibilities.

During my time as a caregiver for my mother, who battled dementia until 2022, I discovered that creativity became my sanctuary. Engaging in activities such as art journaling, and writing provided an outlet for my emotions but also allowed me to step away from the constant demands of caregiving even if it was for 5 minutes. These moments of self-renewal were essential for maintaining my own well-being.

Whatever time you might have available there is a creative activity that you can try out.  Find a creative pursuit that speaks to your heart. Dedicate time to this activity regularly, even if it's just a few minutes a day. It will help you recharge and bring a sense of balance to your life.

Tip 2: Share Creative Moments with Your Loved One

Caring for someone doesn't mean sacrificing all the activities you love. In fact, involving your loved one in creative endeavors can create meaningful connections and beautiful memories. Consider sharing your creative moments with them.

For example, if you enjoy painting, set up a space where both you and your loved one can create together. Even if their abilities have been affected by their condition, the act of creating art can be a source of joy and connection. It's a wonderful way to engage with them on a different level and create lasting, positive experiences.  

This is exactly what I did with my mum, I asked her if she would draw something for me, got out a few supplies and we both sat at the kitchen table enjoying our creative activity and each other's company.  I had some music playing in the background and a light snack for when she wanted a break, but she spent the next hour focused on her activity.

Be patient and adapt the activities to their abilities and interests. These shared moments can strengthen your bond and offer a welcome break from the routine of caregiving.

Tip 3: Connect with a Creative Community

Caregiving can often lead to isolation, making it essential to seek support and connections outside your caregiving role. One fantastic way to do this is by joining a creative community or group. Whether it's an art class, a writing workshop, or a local crafting club, these communities can provide you with a sense of belonging.  I joined an Art Therapy group run in a local community center and you were able to attend for 6-12 sessions.  There may be initiatives being put on in your area that you can check out and they may have resources to help you.  You can join our online creative community as well HERE

Interacting with others who share your passion for creativity can be therapeutic and uplifting. It allows you to step away from your caregiving duties, even if temporarily, and focus on your own growth and well-being. Additionally, these creative communities often offer a space for self-expression and learning, which can be immensely beneficial for your personal development.

Next Steps

Being a caregiver is a demanding and selfless role, but it's crucial to remember that your well-being matters too. By incorporating creativity into your caregiving journey, you can find moments of solace, foster connections with your loved one, and build a supportive community around you. Whether it's through painting, writing, or any other creative pursuit, nurturing your own creativity can help you maintain balance and find joy in your role as a caregiver. 

Join me on my Realityarts Course Platform where I have a series of FREE courses and digital projects that you can access.  Find out more HERE

So, what creative activities do you do to help you unwind and relax? Share your experiences and ideas with us in the comments below, and let's inspire each other to embrace creativity in our caregiving journey.

On the Blog

Check out my Tips for Carers and A-Z of Dementia, Carers Journey

Arts and Wellness Cafe - Enhance Your Creative Journey

 

Welcome to the second episode of the Arts and Wellness Cafe. In this episode, we are diving into our creativity, unlocking the potential of your creative journey. Have you ever wondered when that spark of creativity ignited within you? Creativity is not just a privilege reserved for artists; it's a tool that can enhance everyone's overall health and well-being in a number of ways. Check out the video for more details.

Benefits of Engaging in the Arts on Health and Well-Being

Here are a few benefits for engaging in a creative activity:

1. Stress Reduction: Engaging in creative activities such as painting, drawing, or crafting can act as a form of mindfulness, allowing you to focus on the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety.
2. Emotional Expression: Art provides a safe space for emotional expression. where you can explore and communicate your feelings.
3. Self-esteem: Completing a creative project can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-esteem.
4. Increased Brain Function: Engaging in creative activities stimulates various areas of the brain, promoting memory retention, and overall mental acuity.
5. Social Connection: Participating in group creative activities, such as joining an art class or theater group, fosters social interactions and reduces feelings of isolation. Join our arts Community on my course platform HERE

Learn about the Arts Resource Hub HERE

When we explore some ways to kickstart your creative journey: There are a variety of ways you can start your Creative Journey and here are a few ideas to try:

1. Art Journaling: Begin by keeping an art journal. It can be a mix of sketches, writing, collage, or any other medium that resonates with you. Use it as a space to document your thoughts, feelings, and ideas visually.
2. Creative Writing: If you enjoy writing, start a personal blog, write short stories, or even attempt poetry. Writing allows you to explore your imagination and express your inner thoughts.
3. Crafting: There is so much joy to be found in crafting - trying activities like slow stitching, woodworking, or jewelry making or other crafts can offer a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
4. Visual Arts: Experiment with painting, drawing, or sculpting. You don't need to be a professional artist; just pick up some supplies and start creating. The process is often more rewarding than the end result.
5. Music and Dance: Learn to play a musical instrument or enroll in dance classes. Music and dance are excellent outlets for self-expression and emotional release.
6. Photography: Capture the world through the lens of a camera. Photography allows you to find beauty in everyday moments and share your unique perspective.
7. Cooking and Culinary Arts: Get creative in the kitchen. Experiment with new recipes, flavors, cooking is a delicious form of artistry.
8. Gardening: Cultivate a garden or tend to indoor plants. Gardening connects you with nature and allows you to create a living work of art.

Join me in the Creative Garden LEARN MORE

Incorporate art into your mindfulness or meditation practice. Coloring books designed for adults or mandala drawing can be particularly soothing, and check out some cool FREE courses, there are free courses and digital downloads that you can try out.

Remember that creativity is a personal journey, and there are no right or wrong ways to explore it. The key is to start, enjoy the process, and embrace the positive impact it can have on your health and well-being.

When did you realize you wanted to do something creative? 

It's never too late to embark on this creative journey, and the benefits to your overall wellness will be worth every stroke of the brush or stitch made.

Birthday Celebrations - Blessings!

 

So, I am celebrating another birthday this year.  I feel thankful to have made it through another year and have the opportunity to continue working on those ideas, goals, and dreams that I have within me.  Time seems to be moving even faster as we age so we have to make the most of the time we have.

Sometimes you can get stuck in reflection, this time last year we were organizing my mother's funeral, which took place two days after my birthday, it still seems a bit unreal.

I spend more time reflecting and sharing creative thoughts in the Arts and Wellness Cafe.  I would love you to join me.  Take a look below.

Join me in the Arts and Wellness Cafe

I share some art reflections, and ways in which you can alter work for someone who just wants to do a bit of a project.  This is the first of many Arts and Wellness Cafe - come and hang out for a while in the studio and play a while with your supplies. I would love to hear how you use creativity in your day to day work.

Arts Resource Hub

If you have limited supplies I have tons of resources available in the Arts Resource Hub and several FREE courses with digital backgrounds that you can use in your projects.

Stay blessed and be a blessing!  Have a wonderful weekend!!

Material Mondays - Stitch and Paint Part 3

Welcome back,  It's time for another edition of Material Mondays, where we delve into the world of slow stitching and painting on fabric. If you've been following along, you know that this is the third week I've been working on this project. It's been a delightful journey of progress, and I can't wait to share the latest updates with you!

As always, this project is all about taking our time and enjoying the artistic process. Instead of rushing, we've been adding small bits here and there, allowing the piece to evolve organically. It's a great way to stay in touch with our creative flow and not feel pressured to finish everything in one go.

In this installment, I'm excited to focus on adding some additional stitching and beading.  I will share the following:

1. Defining the Shirt: I'll start by adding more stitching around the neck to emphasize the shirt's bead details. 

2. Moving on to the head and body area adding more stitching

3. Bird and Beads: Our figure has her arm around a bird, and I'm eager to enhance it with possible beadwork in and will look at what colors I have. 

4. Detail on arm: To distinguish her arm from the body, I'll focus on adding intricate details between the existing stitches.

Throughout this project, I've discovered that it's essential to let go of the notion that everything must be finished in one sitting. Embracing the artistic process means allowing the piece to breathe and grow. It's been a learning journey to give myself the freedom to step away and return with fresh inspiration.

Adding extra beading on the collar

I have found when working on the fabric pieces, that rather than having a pre-drawn plan, I prefer letting the piece guide me. It's like an unfolding story where every stitch and bead adds a new chapter. This spontaneity allows for unexpected surprises and takes us on a journey of discovery.

We are approaching the finishing line with a few additional touches and completing this piece is my focus for the upcoming week, and I'm eager to see it all come together.

Remember as you go forward in your creative walk that art is about embracing the journey and enjoying the process. Don't rush; savor every stitch, bead, and brushstroke. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, the creative path has something extraordinary to offer each one of us.

I hope you've been inspired to dive into your own artistic projects. Until next time, when we return to reveal the final masterpiece, happy creating!

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Before you go:

Free Course - Recycled Stamps and Stencils

Material Mondays - Discover the Positive Impact of Regular Stitched Activities

Embrace the Joy of Material Mondays

Welcome to Material Mondays, a delightful journey into the world of mixed media art and slow stitching! In this blog post, we'll explore the incredible benefits of engaging in regular stitched activities. Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner looking to explore new creative outlets, the positive impact of these projects on your well-being cannot be overstated.

In the video I share with you a project that I am working on which combines painted fabric and slow stitching. I built up the images on the fabric using stencils, and fabric paint and then found the images on the surface.

There are so many great ways in which slow stitching can impact on your health and wellbeing, here are a few ways for you to consider. 

Nurturing Mindfulness and Relaxation

One of the most great aspects of stitched activities is their ability to induce a state of mindfulness and relaxation. Working the needle through the fabric,  creates a meditative experience.

Fostering Creativity and Self-Expression

Stitched projects are a perfect avenue for nurturing your creativity and exploring your artistic voice. With the projects you can infuse your personality, emotions, and unique perspective and create something truly one-of-a-kind.

Cultivating Patience and Resilience

Stitched activities can teach us the valuable lessons of patience and resilience. As you embark on a project, you'll encounter challenges along the way - threading a needle, tangled threads, intricate designs, or the need to redo a section. Through perseverance and determination, you learn to embrace these obstacles as opportunities for growth. The slow, nature of stitching encourages you to savor the journey, appreciate the process, and celebrate the small victories achieved with each completed stitch.

Connecting with Tradition and History

Embarking on stitched projects allows you to tap into a rich tradition that spans centuries. Stitching has been practiced across cultures and generations, creating a deep sense of connection with those who came before us. My mother use to create these intricately crocheted table decorations and many other things. I was always amazed at the designs that she came up with just two simple supplies – the crochet needle and the thread.

Promoting Self-Care and Well-Being 

Regular engagement in creative activities can significantly contribute to your overall well-being. The act of setting a dedicated time for creative pursuits is an act of self-care, allowing you to prioritize your own happiness and fulfillment. Through stitching, you can alleviate stress, and boost your mood. Additionally, the sense of accomplishment and pride that accompanies completing a stitched project gives you a much-needed sense of satisfaction.

As you join us in Material Mondays each week why not bring your supplies and embark on your own stitched adventures, don’t feel rushed to finish a piece of work, depending on the detail that you include determines the length of time it can take.

Remember the positive impact these activities can have on your well-being. From fostering mindfulness and creativity to cultivating patience and resilience, stitched projects offer a variety of benefits that extend far beyond the final masterpiece. So, grab your materials, and ignite your imagination!

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Before you go - Check out the Free Course: Mixed Media Art Tags

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