The fun starts at 10AM Central Time Dec. 31st. We will keep the room open until 7AM Central on January 1, 2025.
Every hour or so we will have a new lesson, tutorial, or demo. EVERYTHING will be recorded and available to you for the first three months of 2025 (replays + a private group on Kiala Givehand's Mighty Network + select replays from previous Marathons + there are already bookbinding tutorials to get your creative juices flowing).
It’s going to be a fun time. You don’t have to be on for the entire time, just show up when you can & create. The schedule is live see the link below. Get some rest, gather your supplies and come have fun with us!!
You can check out the teachers on their Instagram profile. The Teachers are:
Do you ever feel that you are creatively blocked? Then you should look no further than your own garden, green space or local park!
We can find a wealth of inspiration when we take a walk in our gardens or green space, and there are so many ways in which we can look to nature and produce beautiful creative projects.
Here are 5 tips for using the natural world to unlock your creativity:
1. Allow it to guide your art - Look at the kind of things that you might find to add that inspiration to an art project. It could be the twist of a branch that inspires a brushstroke, or the texture of bark or rocks recreated with modeling paste or gesso. Step outside your comfort zone and see where the natural world takes you.
2. Choose Your colors from natures palette. Nature offers a vast and vibrant range of colors. Observe the color combinations of a flowers petals, the contrast of a cloudy sky, or the variation of greens and browns that you find in a garden.
Choose colors that evoke the emotions and feelings you want to convey in your art, and let them be your guide. This plant is called the paddle plant and I love the color combination. I would never have thought to use it in my art.
Welcome to Material Musings, In todays episode we look at ways that you can use your fabric scraps and create a series of fabric cards.
By stitching your scraps of a base fabric, adding decoration and stitched words you can make use of the scraps and turn them into something useful. You could also make things like placemats, coasters, covers for art journal and more.
With the addition of stitched words you can further add to your pieces. You can also add a small woven piece to add to your fabric cards. All of the additional fabric has either been painted, stamped, stenciled or wax resisted.
Try and experiment and see what combinations you can come up with.
Before You Go check out - Bag Envy
Discover the best materials, tools, and tips to elevate your bag-making game with ten seasoned experts at Bag Envy on October 4th at 11 AM PST! By securing your spot, you’ll gain lifetime access to the event recordings, allowing you to watch and rewatch content at your own pace. Plus, you’ll get a digital swag bag full of goodies. Don’t miss out on the chance to score additional giveaways by joining the event live. Sign up today through Creative Spark and save $20 off at checkout with the code bag24reality. Find out more about Bag Envy HERE
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.
In this video I share how I create my art journal plaques. They are great for adding encouraging words in your journal and to decorate it as well as also being used for other creative projects. Check out the video and let me know how you will use them.
Fathers Day Special Sale
The sale continues - get your discounted courses. The sale finishes on the 17th June at 9am. Use the Code FATHERS50 at the checkout. Take a look at the courses available HERE
Welcome June, it is the first day of the month and a great time to think about some of the creative projects that you can do. Here are a few examples of what you can do in your art journal and mixed media creative projects:
Nature-inspired Collages: Collect leaves, flowers, and other natural elements to create intricate collages in your art journal. Use different textures and colors to add depth and interest to your compositions
Watercolor Landscapes: Experiment with watercolors to paint serene landscapes or vibrant cityscapes. Let your imagination wander as you blend colors and create dreamy scenes.
Found Object Sculptures: Gather everyday objects like buttons, keys, and old jewelry to assemble unique sculptures. Combine them with clay or wire to create three-dimensional artworks that tell a story.
Remember, the beauty of mixed media and art journaling lies in the freedom to experiment and express yourself without constraints. Let your creativity flow and have fun exploring new techniques and ideas!
If you didn't catch us in the live premier this afternoon you can take a look at how I created this page here which was part of a collaboration for #secondsaturdayart. Click on the video above or HERE
It started out with the digital download page I created of the tulips, which is part of a kit that I created on my Patreon platform you can check it out HERE.
For $3 each month they have access to a new set of digital download background papers, tags and videos giving ideas for how they can be used.
I had fun creating the image and incorporating the tulips with the figure.
It is all about creative play and experimenting with the supplies that you have. These papers will be then added to my art journal. There are tags and other elements that can be added when the digital download pages are cut up.
If you want to check out the FREE members page of my Patreon you will see early release and posts there first. If you want to access the digital papers and others in the series you can check them out using the 7 Day FREE trial which will give you access at the $3 tier, and you have over 400 posts, videos and downloads to check out in the meantime.
The page was great fun to create, and I look forward to creating more using this technique.
Welcome to Material Musings today, I am sharing one of my fabric projects with you. I have a range of projects that are in a stage of nearing completion and I often work on small batches at a time to get a group of them complete, and move them on to their next stage.
The projects are made up of a variety of different materials, including some that have been wax resist dyed, painted and there is some slow stitching that brings it all together.
It is a lovely relaxing time to do some slow stitching while getting some of these pieces complete, and they are now ready to go on to the next stage of their journey and I will think about what additional embellishments would look good.
Have fun with your stitched projects.
Before you go
Join us in the Art Resource Hub for the new digital download papers that are available to you for FREE to use in your creative projects.
How have you been feeling creatively? We can sometimes feel creatively parched and need a spark to help us 'refill the wells'. Are you looking for ways to jumpstart your creativity and hit the ground running with new and innovative ideas? Here are some 8 tips to help you get started:
1. Set your sights. Whether it's a new creative idea, a writing challenge, or simply picking up a new skill, having a goal guides your creative compass. Try something new. There are usually quite a few online challenges for you to sink your teeth into, I will also be sharing a Free 12 week course called 'Kickstart Your Creativity Series' in a couple of weeks so sign up to my course platform to be notified. Sign up HERE
2. Make time for daydreaming. Schedule dedicated brain-sparking sessions. Brainstorm in the morning light, doodle during your lunch break, or let your mind wander after dark. In my latest Arts and Wellness Cafe I look at one of the Words for the Month - Stillness In our stillness we can find treasures.
3. Shake things up. Ditch the familiar. Try a new art form, write with a different voice, or explore a tool you've never touched. New experiences unlock hidden creative talents.
4. Find your inspiration tribe. Soak up the creative energy of others. Follow inspiring artists, attend workshops, or join a local group of fellow dreamers. Join us in the Creative Community on the course platform - Check it out HERE
5. Disconnect to reconnect. Sometimes, the best ideas bloom in the quiet. Take a digital detox, go for a nature walk, or lose yourself in a good book. Unplug and let your mind wander. Read that book that you have been promising yourself.
6. Tame the mental chatter. Mindfulness practices like meditation can help you focus and quiet your inner critic. A calm mind is a fertile ground for creativity. Take out your needles and thread and do some slow stitching - You can pick up some inspiration in Material Musings
7. Embrace the unknown. Step outside your comfort zone. Learn a new dance, travel to a new place, or take a class in something totally unfamiliar. New experiences jumpstart innovation.
8. Just start. Perfectionism is the creativity killer. Don't overthink it, just dive in. Pick up a pen, play with some paint supplies, doodle, create with recycled materials, do some slow stitching. The act of creation itself is the magic spark that ignites imagination.
Remember, creativity is a journey, not a destination. Keep experimenting, keep exploring, and keep feeding your curiosity. The well of wonder is always waiting to be refilled, and the greatest creations start with a single step. Now go forth and create!
Creating Fabric Beads: A Sustainable and Creative Project
Ever wished you could transform your leftover fabric scraps into something beautiful and useful? Look no further than fabric beads! They are surprisingly easy to make and offer a fantastic way to recycle unwanted materials, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Scraps into Treasure:
This project starts with a simple base, like a recycled plastic tube, or check if you have any plastic drinking straws in one of those draws in the kitchen. They offer a sturdy core for your fabric bead. Wrapping thin strips of fabric around the tube with glue or stitching creates the foundation of your bead.
Working with Embellishments
Here's where you can go to town in your art supplies! Grab those forgotten seed beads, ribbons, and any other embellishments you have lying around. Each bead becomes a canvas, waiting to be shaped with contrasting threads, seed beads, or even bits of wool, the possibilities are endless!
Benefits of Creating your Beads:
Creating fabric beads offers more than just artistic satisfaction. It's a fantastic way to:Reduce waste: By repurposing scraps, you give new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
Develop crafting skills: Learn basic sewing and beading techniques, perfect for future projects.
Enjoy a mindful activity: The repetitive nature of beading can be quite therapeutic, offering a moment of calm.
Create unique pieces: With endless combinations of fabrics and embellishments, every bead is a one-of-a-kind treasure.
Getting Started: Check out the video to see how I created them. Here are some of the supplies that you will need.
Fabric scraps: Any fabric will do, from cotton to silk.
Embellishments: Beads, buttons, yarn, ribbons, the possibilities are endless!
Needle and thread: For stitching the fabric and securing embellishments.
Glue gun (optional): Offers a quicker alternative to stitching for some steps.
Recycled base: Plastic tubes, paper or plastic straws
Your finished fabric beads can be used in countless ways stringing them together to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings. You can also use them as embellishments and sew them onto clothing, bags, or pillows for a unique and personalized touch.
Creating fabric beads is a fun, sustainable, and rewarding activity, it is a great time to express your creativity, so, gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and let the joy of fabric bead making take over!
In
today's art journal video, I am thrilled to share with you a unique and
eco-friendly approach to creating art journals using recycled materials,
specifically Tetra Pak cartons. These cartons, commonly used for packaging
beverages, pose a recycling challenge in many areas. However, instead of
letting them go to waste, we can repurpose them into beautiful and functional
art journals that provide endless creative fun.
The Need for Recycling and Repurposing
Recycling has become
increasingly important in our efforts to protect the environment and preserve
valuable resources. By recycling and repurposing, we can
reduce waste, conserve energy, and reduce the harmful effects
of pollution. Tetra Pak cartons, due to their complex composition, often
present a challenge for local recycling centers, and this led me to explore alternative ways to reuse these
cartons and turn them into something meaningful.
Creating Art Journals
Art journals are a great way to express our creativity, capture our thoughts, and document our
experiences. They serve as a personal sanctuary for self-expression and
reflection. By repurposing Tetra Pak cartons into art journals, we not only
divert them from landfills but also breathe new life into these everyday
objects.
The Creative Process:
In future videos, I
will be sharing the step-by-step process of creating these art journals with my
patrons. From preparing the cartons to binding the pages, each stage offers
opportunities for customization and personalization. You can choose to leave
the carton's original design intact or transform it with paints, collages, or
other mixed-media techniques. I have also reused the cartons as temporary plant pots in the garden and
there are a range of other creative projects that you can use them for.
I would
love to know how you use yours, and whether you have tried using them for a
creative project, by transforming
Tetra Pak cartons into art journals it provides a unique way to express your
creativity while making a positive impact on the environment.
Join us on
Patreon if you would like to see how I put the art journal together, and
remember you can sign up for a 7 day FREE trial and view over 90 Patron only
posts.
Welcome to today's art journal. Today, we're going to explore a mixed media art journal that I created and consider some of the numerous benefits it brings to your creative journey. If you've never tried art journaling before or you're looking for some inspiration to reignite your passion, you're in for a treat! Check out the video to see how I sometimes play in my journal and fill up some of the pages, prepping them for future use.
Art journaling is a unique form of self-expression that combines elements of visual art, writing, and creativity. It's a personal space where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and ideas while experimenting with various art techniques and materials. Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner, there are countless reasons why spending time in your art journal can be incredibly rewarding, let's take a closer look at some of these benefits.
Stress Relief and Relaxation:
Engaging in art journaling can be a soothing and calming activity. It offers a chance to disconnect from the hectic pace of daily life and immerse yourself in a creative sanctuary. As you focus on colors, textures, and the act of creating, you can experience a sense of mindfulness and find relief from stress and anxiety.
Creative Exploration and Experimentation:
Your art journal is a playground for artistic exploration. It's a space where you can let go of expectations, rules, and judgments. You can try new art techniques, experiment with different mediums, be inspired and push the boundaries of your creativity. The freedom to make mistakes and learn from them allows for immense growth and discovery as an artist.
Creative Confidence and Courage:
Art journaling nurtures your creative confidence and encourages you to take risks. As you experiment, play, and explore, you develop a sense of trust in your own artistic abilities. This newfound confidence often spills over into other areas of your life, empowering you to embrace creativity and take on challenges with courage.
It's a personal journey that can bring joy, healing, and growth. So, grab your favorite art supplies, find a quiet corner, and let your creativity soar!
Your art journal is waiting to be filled with your unique voice and vision. I hope that you take the time to work in your art journal/s finding that space and time to share your stories.
These are just a few of the many benefits of spending time in your art journal - you can catch the full list on my Patreon on Tuesday, why not sign up for the 7 day FREE Trial.
The 100-day project has come to an end, and it's an exhilarating feeling to look back and admire the collection of 100 unique collage art pieces I have created.
Each artwork, crafted on a book page or card, incorporates a selection of collage ephemera and uplifting words or phrases. Throughout this creative journey, I have not only discovered the joy of creating collages but also explored various other ways in which collage can be used in my creative practice.
It was a real joy creating the pieces, I selected all the ephemera that I had, all the handmade paper, painted paper, paint, stencils, doodling and much more and had fun putting them together.
Collage is fun and spoke to the multipotentialite in me that loves working in on different pieces of art, 100 to be exact. I was able to explore all the different combinations of materials such as paper, photographs, fabrics, and found objects. The tactile experience of gathering and arranging these elements added an extra layer of excitement and creativity to the artistic process.
Creative Expression
Collage art provides an opportunity to express one's personal narrative. I love providing encouragement in my work and telling a story. By incorporating meaningful imagery, symbols, and words, each piece can tell a story or evoke specific emotions, allowing for a deeper connection between the artwork and the viewer.
Experimenting and Play
Collage art encourages experimenting with your supplies and spending time playing. By staying flexible and not limiting yourself it enables you to explore different compositions, textures, and color combinations. This can lead to some powerful pieces.
Therapeutic Collage
Engaging in the process of creating collages can be meditative and therapeutic. The act of cutting, arranging, and gluing materials can be a form of mindfulness, providing a sense of relaxation and focus.
I hope seeing some of my collage art from my 100 day challenge has inspired you to maybe try a challenge yourself, it is so much fun, and great to see what you have produced when you look back.
My art pieces will be made available on my Red Bubble site should you want to buy a print or have an image on a journal.
Enjoy a 7 Day FREE Trial on Patreon
Check out my Patreon, you will find over 90 different projects, videos, digital downloads and more for your to have fun with. Let me know how you get on.
Realityarts - Creativity Book Shop - Some really great titles for you to dive in
Creative Resources
Affiliate Links
Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you purchase a product after clicking an affiliate link, I receive a small percentage of the sale for referring you. I only have links to products that I would buy myself. Purchasing through affiliate links is an easy, painless way to help out your favorite artists/bloggers at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
.png "Material Musings")
.jpg "Bag Envy Summit")
.jpg)
.gif)
.png "Welcome June")
.png "Fabric Projects - Amanda Trought")
.png)
.png "Filling the Creative Well - Online Course")
%20(Instagram%20Post).gif "Join us on Patreon")
%20(Instagram%20Post)%20(2).gif "Join me on Patreon")
%20(Instagram%20Post)%20(1).gif "Enjoy a 7 Day Free Trial on my Patreon")
.png){kind=spacer}
.png)
Posts
