Happy Mothers Day, It’s a time of reflection and appreciation for the incredible women who have shaped our lives.
From the mothers who raised us to the maternal figures who have guided and supported us along the way, Mother's Day is an opportunity to celebrate their love, sacrifice, and unwavering presence. As we spend time honoring those in our lives, we also take time to think about our own self-care and nurturing our well-being.
Self-Care Matters
Self-care is a fundamental aspect of maintaining balance, and overall well-being in our lives. Taking time to showing ourselves love and carving out moments of solitude, indulging in a favorite hobby, or simply giving ourselves permission to rest, self-care empowers us to recharge and replenish our energy.
Sometimes prioritizing self-care can often feel like a as meeting the needs of others can leave little time or energy for self-nurturing. However, practicing self-care is essential.
Celebrating Self-Care
I encourage mothers and maternal figures to take time for themselves, engage in activities that bring them joy, and honor their own needs and desires – whatever that may be, whether it's enjoying a leisurely morning, taking a peaceful nature walk, or indulging in a creative pursuit, let's celebrate each and every day in a way that nurtures the mind, body, and soul.
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.
In this video I show you how I take a background page, that has leftover paint on it and turn it into a page full of detail, doodles and mark making. I had shared in an online collaboration called Second Saturday Art. You can check some of my other videos in my Playlist Here.
When I work in my art journals, I always have a spare page that I can put all the excess paint that you are sometimes left with in your pallet and rather than wash it off I will add it to a random page in the journal.
I was able to come back to the page and started to add doodles, marks and a figure emerged. I went with the flow and had fun. Check out the video to see the finished page, and take a look at the process as it unfolds.
Before You Go
Come and join us on Patreon. You can now join as a FREE member and get access to posts before they appear here on Realityarts-Inspiration. I also have a 7 Day Free trial on the $3 Tier You can get access to over 400 posts, videos, and digital downloads. Learn More HERE
Welcome to Material Musings, in this video I share some ways that I use fabric scraps and create mini projects. I show you some of the panels and wall hangings in progress, waiting for either some stitching, beading or to be added to another project.
I also share how I create these fun badges, they will either be placed on another project or can be used as a tag or in an art journal spread. I will be adding some more stitching to the pieces and maybe some beading to each of them.
How are you using your fabric scraps, or your supplies that you have neglected?
If you decide to create them, remember to share on IG and tag me @realityarts
Check in your own supplies to see what you have. Here are some of the additional supplies that I used:
Brads - https://amzn.to/3VsNA7c
Hot Glue Gun - https://amzn.to/3vtsb32
Embroidery Thead - https://amzn.to/3VsATJr
Ribbon - https://amzn.to/3PvE3Zh
Fabric panels (available in different colors) - https://amzn.to/495SutS and check out - https://amzn.to/3Tq9ghM
Have fun!
Before you go
Join us for FREE on Patreon or try out one of the Tiers on the 7 day free trial:
Welcome to Material Mondays! Today, we are delving into the world of slow stitching and completing textile and fabric artwork. You can check out the accompanying video below, I'm excited to share with you the process of working with different materials and adding intricate stitches to create textile art pieces.
Last week, we looked at an incomplete piece that I've been working on, in this video and I'm happy to say that it's now complete! I added additional stitching along the figure's body and clothes, defining the edges and creating shadows with darker threads. The completed piece measures nine inches by nine and is titled "Rest A While."
I'm considering framing it, but it will also be available for purchase unframed on my Etsy shop or website.
Here is last weeks video if you missed it
New Textile Art
Working on small stitches, is something I find incredibly enjoyable. It allows me to add intricate details and textures to my artwork, giving it a unique look and also enables me to experiment with various stitches, threads, and materials.
I enjoy working on multiple projects and I find that when I come back to these unfinished pieces, that I am able to look from a new perspective. Stepping away from a piece can be a refreshing way to gain new insights and inspiration.
Slow stitching and completing textile and fabric artwork is a journey and It's about finding joy in small details, experimenting with materials, and letting inspiration guide your hand. I hope this glimpse into my artistic process has inspired you to pick up your needle and thread and embark on your own creative adventure.
Join me next time on Material Mondays as I continue working on this piece and explore more stitching techniques. Until then, stay inspired and keep crafting!
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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.
Welcome to Material Mondays, In this video I share some of the projects that I am working on and how I would take some of them forward.
I always find getting started on a new piece is an exciting, and I am inspired by the fabric, threads and embellishments. I take a stitched piece to a particular point, then are drawn to other pieces. As artists, we often find ourselves surrounded by numerous incomplete projects at different stages. I find that there are quite a few benefits of having several projects on the go and will share some of them below.
Variety is the spice of life: Having a range of incomplete projects allows us to explore different techniques, themes, and ideas. Each project represents a unique creative journey, providing us with opportunities to experiment, learn, and grow as creatives. With multiple projects in progress, we can switch between them based on our mood, inspiration, or specific skills we wish to enhance.
Inspiration from Different Stages: Projects at various stages offer inspiration and new perspectives. When we review our incomplete projects, we gain new insights and ideas for their completion. The early stages of a project may spark our creativity, while those nearing completion motivate us to add the finishing touches - some of mine include extra slow stitching or beading. We are then able to discover unexpected connections between ideas.
Stitched projects at their final stages
The Therapeutic Power of Slow Stitching: I love slow stitching on projects, it provides a tranquil and meditative experience. Engaging in slow stitching allows us to immerse ourselves in the process, savoring each stitch, and enjoying the journey. This mindful activity promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental wellbeing. What better way to look after yourself!
Health Benefits of Creative Activities: Participating in creative activities has been shown to have numerous health benefits. These activities promoting feelings of joy and accomplishment, and boosts self-esteem. Art also serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, enabling us to express our emotions and thoughts.
Check out the work that I share in the video, I eventually choose to work on a dragon fly design that has been wax resisted on cotton, and I will be adding stitching.
If you find you have multiple projects to complete, go easy on yourself and don't become overwhelmed. Allow your intuition and creative spark to guide you and know that as you are mindful about your activities you are impacting your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
So, whether you're exploring new projects, revisiting incomplete ones, or immersing yourself in slow stitching, embrace the joy of textile art.
You can check out some of the other Material Monday posts on my YouTube playlist - HERE You can also check out some of the videos below.
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.
Developing a creative routine and managing the critic are integral aspects of nurturing your artistic practice. We don't always have the hours we crave to be creative, but you can look at ways that can help you identify areas that you can incorporate into your routine.
Here are a few things you can do to develop your creative routine -
Developing Your Creative Routine:
Allocate time for play: Make sure to
dedicate time to indulge in activities without any specific end goal. This
helps you enjoy the creative process and explore without restrictions.
Create a schedule: Establish a morning
routine that sets the tone for your creative day. Consider incorporating
elements like gratitude exercises and spending time in nature to stimulate
inspiration and mental well-being.
Be Flexible: While having a
routine is essential, remain open to adjusting it based on your needs. Allow yourself the freedom to spend more time on certain
activities or projects when necessary.
You can find additional tips on my Patreon platform.
Why not check out the 7 Day FREE Trial to take a look at some of the informative videos and digital downloads that you can have access to.
I am going to be teaching on a few more courses next year and I am excited to share them with you. The first one is One Badass Art Journal 2022, we are running a giveaway and you can enter HERE Leave your details and your name goes into the pot for a chance to win a seat.
Enter HERE for a chance to win a spot on the course
Here is what you will be getting on the course....
• get 17 badass art journal lessons (includes a book making lesson)
• learn BADASS mixed media techniques
• be infused with confidence, creativity and inspiration
• learn great tips and tricks you can use again and again
• play with a variety of tools, adding to your skills
• experience beautiful color combinations and blending techniques
• make BADASS, mixed media, art journal pages
Here’s what you can expect:
• Step-by-Step Mixed Media Tutorials
• Video Tutorials
• Downloadable PDFs
• Wonderful for beginners or anyone who wants to RELEASE their inner BADASS.
Creative JumpStart - Creating Connections 2022
The second course that I am teaching on is called Creative Jumpstart, registration opens on 29th and I will be able to share with you additional information. You can find out about all the teachers HERE
Creative JumpStart was created by Nathalie Kalbach for hobbyists and artists alike to learn from the best of the best, and take action to build a creative habit.
The workshop is delivered over four weeks via 38 pre-recorded lessons and interactive sessions (think live webinars and a private forum just for CJS students & instructors to connect). You get the chance to ask questions, get hands-on help, and join the creative community.
I will share more about the course and a sneak peek of my class in the coming week.
Patreon
Why not join me on Patreon It can be a busy time with all these courses and if you are not able to join me on these courses, you can always check out over 60 Patron only posts that include tutorials, how to videos, behind the scenes and more for as little as $3 per month.
Join me in the studio as we work on an art journal page, the aim is to use up supplies that you have been sitting on and allowing to dry up and feel neglected.
It is time for you to dig them out and give them a new lease of life, create an art journal page with me, or create something else with what you have.
I am looking forward to see what you create and you join the journey.
Join me on Patreon for some behind the scenes look at the work that I do, for as little as $3 you get monthly art videos, downloadables, printable backgrounds and much more!
I took the plunge and started a Patreon Page a while back, as I move forward in my bid to create free content for those interested in the use of creativity and the effect on our health and well-being.
My passion is creating and sharing how the Arts and Creativity can impact our health and well-being and in the process help you spend more time using creativity to unlock your creative talents.
What is Patreon?
Patreon is a place where you can support artists who create content you love, so they can makemorecontent. It's kind of like a membership with different tiers, the cool thing is that you get rewards for each month you support, whether that is just once or on an ongoing basis.
I have been an artist for over 15 years, a mother, a carer and a creative soul. I looked after my mother for over 17 years and have seen first hand the changes that take place in a loved one living with dementia and the impact on the family. I was not longer able to care for my mother and a few years ago and had to put her in a nursing home which was devastating.
Art Heals I used art and creativity as a tool to help me through the 17 years and saw first hand the positive impact that it had for me as well as my mother and I went on to share my art and creativity with men and women who attended a day care center specializing in dementia care. I believe everyone should have access to the arts across the board. Creating and sharing what I am doing, encouraging participation and hopefully being inspiring means so much to me, especially when you can create important resources for free. The importance of the arts to our lives really came to the forefront of what I was doing when my mum started showing signs of Alzheimer’s which is now in the severe stages and while the effects were devastating, Art and Creativity and improving both of our nutrition helped us navigate the uncharted territory, and there has and continues to be so many treasured moments.
The Arts gave us the space to express ourselves in ways that words could not. I have been creating and developing resources for everyone and anyone who just wants to be able to create and find themselves in the midst of their situation too, I also started a free Arts and Health network sharing and curating information about Arts and Health events globally. If I can make a positive impact on just one person that would be a blessing.
Subscribe to a Tier on Patreon My goal is to help you find ways to incorporate art and creativity into your life and to find those pockets of time. My art and workshops are designed to inspire you to dream, to remind you of all that you already know, and to help you discover the best parts of yourself.
I want to do more and I’d LOVE for you to be part of the adventure with me. Through your subscription to my Patreon page, I will have the resources to create more art and more content (including ongoing workshop series, digital downloads, tutorials, vlogs, books!). And you will have access to as little or as much as you want. You decide when you select your subscription tier! I want to create community; a space where we can all share and spread our creative wings together. I want to share the ins an the outs of this imperfect, messy and beautiful journey and I want inspire you on your own journey. The ability to create isn't reserved for the special. It is for ALL of us.
Your soul knows there is more, Your mind has forgotten. My work aims to remind you while you increase your creativity and unlock your hidden talents, Join me.”
Arts and Wellness - Working with Fabrics and Journals
Welcome to Arts and Wellness Episode 233 which you can also listen on the Podcast. Check out the video where you will see how I use the fabric scraps in the art journal, making use of the texture and colour that comes from the material.
Taking time to create enables you to focus on you and work on areas of your life that need some thought. It is a great stress reliever as well. There are many ways in which you can take part in the arts from participating, watching someone create or looking at the finished art in a gallery setting.
Check out the video HERE where you get a glimpse in the studio and we work on an art journal with fabric scraps
Working with scraps in Art Journal as a background
On Wednesdays we focus on the Arts and how it can impact our health and well-being. I will be talking with artists, looking at activities that you can do to be more creative across the board and for those who are carers tips and strategies that you can use. I will also be sharing reviews, resources and other insights. I will be looking at the nuggets that the artists share and see how we can apply it in some way to our own lives, what ever your interests.
Lots of yummy colour on the baby wipes
Watch the video below and subscribe to the art channel
Welcome to Inspirational Shorts Review - Each week I review an art supply, tool or book and today I will be looking at Creative Paint Workshop. You can check out the book on Amazon and join me in the video below to see inside the book.
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!
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