Gratitude's and Celebration - New Sculpture - Elouise

For a long time as an artist I have been searching for that medium that would help me feel as if I fitted in.  I went on a journey exploring different mediums and styles, and it took a lot of pushing, and prodding, getting out of my comfort zone and sometimes just trying again.

After a while I became happier with what I was producing, understanding that we all have those moments of feeling as if we are not good enough and that critical voice can stop you in your tracks if you let it.

You can hide that gift, or talent and never embark on that thing that would change how you looked at yourself and your art.

Today I celebrate and I am grateful to all those supportive voices that cheer me on, who encourage and who are leading the way themselves on their own beautiful journey.

This sculpture I have called Elouise, as I was making her I was reminded about the ties that bind us - the ones that are external and the ones which we bind ourselves with.  She is in the process of breaking free and finding her joy and passion which is to dance.

I hope as you step out of your comfort zone you are surrounded by those who are your cheerleaders and supporters and you take that brave step to silence your critics despite the shape or form they make take.

Stay blessed and be a blessing!

Camille - Sculpture

Camille - Mixed Media Sculpture

My latest sculpture is called 'Camille' and this sculpture really speaks to me about holding your piece, being confident and assured in how you carry yourself.

You are a light in the darkness, do not be afraid of your gifts and talents - as a message that we all need to hear.  

I experimented with different materials that brought together her clothing. I had also crocheted some flowers and combined them with a product called 'Powertex' that hardens them and used this within the piece.  She measures in at 22cm and weighs 2.2kg.

I have managed to complete quite a few sculptures that I am looking forward to sharing here over the next few days.  I have been experimenting with sizes and styles as well, and I think I am beginning to find my flow.  I have promised to place them on my Etsy Store - which is still in the development stage, and because we are moving might have to take a slightly back stage.

Camille, Mixed Media Art Sculpture

I hope you like her as much as I enjoyed creating her. Blessings!

Mixed Media Art Dolls - 'Red'

As part of Material Mondays I am continuing to share my mixed media art dolls and I completed a couple more dolls that add to the collection of mini dolls in the series.  I am beginning to find my feet in terms of the design and how I want them to look.  I find that there are so many different techniques I want to do, It is just to find the time necessary to get them to the point where I am ready to let go and see it as complete.

I decided that I didn't want to create art dolls that looked 'perfect' but ones that reflected our imperfections and differences, and who as in our own lives need to be proud of who we are, making the best of our lives.

Red comes in a full length red and gold coat with white and gold buttons down the front.  Her blue floor length dress is finished off with a jeweled broach.

The way that I have been approaching making the dolls is in the same way that I would do a painting, and thinking about the layers, and the stories that I want to come out, and as you look into the eyes you can relate to some part of her story.

Red - Mixed media Art Doll

Hope you like her, 

Material Mondays - Sculpture Figures 1

Allowing myself loose on working with clay has led me to try some more complex pieces, and experimenting with other materials such as powertex which is a fabric hardener.  I have been able to use several different mediums to create this sculpture.  I really love the way the fabric gathers and holds its shape.

I have also incorporated jewelry, gems, and flowers which helps with the overall effect.

Using the different materials gives you different textures, which then show through when you apply paint

I am really pleased with how she turned out, she stands around 12 inches tall.

She comes bearing flowers and is looking for a good home so if you are interested in purchasing I will be putting her up in my Etsy store

Hello Dolly! - Clay Art Dolls

After making Grace the Art doll inspired by Mystele and her class on Soul Food, I have been spending my time dabbling with ideas and have come up with a couple of dolls.  

They are made using recycled materials, clay and then painted.  I was introduced to a product called powertex - a fabric hardener at a craft show and have used this on their hair and clothes.

Ione - Art Doll

They seem to have developed a character of their own, and at the moment I am just playing but hope over the next few weeks to try a few variations and experiment further - I have so many ideas!.

Ione - Art Doll

I like the way she turned out, with her shawl and flowers, lace on her skirt.

Each doll measures aprox 7 inches tall and have been decked out in their finest shawl and some bling

Delores - Art Doll

This doll felt like a Delores for some reason - not sure I will part with these Art Dolls, but will be making some more to put on my Etsy store and website

places to go, people to see!

Making the dolls is a very satisfying activity, one that I didn't realize I would enjoy quite so much, so do come back and see what else I make

Ione and Delores take time out waiting for the finishing touches