Creative Expression - Identity - Mixed Media

I have been experimenting and working steadily in the studio, which I realize I have not shared yet.  I am still settling in creatively, stretching my wings and finding where I feel comfortable but also pushing myself to find the uncomfortable a place to dwell, as that is where some of the growth takes place.

Trying something different enables you to see what can be an inspiration and lead you on a road that you never though you would travel.

I find working with textures, clay, and fabric opening up areas of creativity that I had never thought of and I am enjoying the process.  I am still drawing, sketching, journalling and trying out oh so many different techniques, there isn't enough hours in the day unfortunately, cause I enjoy them all, and why not?

This piece represents for me the idea that we can forget who we are, our dreams, our goals, our desires.  The same people that wore so many labels, called by so many different names, but the very truth to our existence lost under stuff, under activities, responsibilities, untruths, deceptions under-valuing our lives as we fight for a sense of who we are.

I have more work to share, excited as I also have some pieces of art at a couple of galleries here in Barbados, and will also teaching online and would love it if you came and joined me.

Material Mondays - Fabric Bowl and powertex

Welcome to another Material Mondays, where I have been playing about with fabric in a different way.  What was once an old skirt that needed to be disguarded is now a functional addition to the studio.

You have heard me on the blog rage about powertex which is a fabric hardener that I recently became aware of HERE and have been using it in some of my figurines and other things.

I thought I would try my hand at making a fabric bowl using fabric scraps and string to decorate.

The great thing is that you can create any style bowl that you choose and any size, and whilst this won't be submerged in water it is water proof.

It is a great way to use up all those items of cloths that may have not been in a good enough condition to make it to the charity store, and you also make yourself something useful in the process.

This is one suggestion for the bowl, but I am thinking now that I will use it to place my keys in so they don't get misplaced.  If you get a chance to try out the powertex I would really recommend that you experiment it's a lovely product, and in the meantime you will be recycling and doing your bit.

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!

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

Saturday's In the News - New product - Powertex

I went to a Hobby and Craft show at Excel a while back. There was lots to see and many stands with their show specials as well as demonstrations, fashion show and more. They are usually put on a couple of times a year around November and March, and great if you are thinking of trying out a new craft or hobby, or brush up on a new technique.  There is always much to learn and most exhibitors have mini demonstrations going on throughout the day.

I came across a Powertex stand, not having heard of the product before, but seeing the effects, had to find out more about it.  The husband and wife team who demonstrated using the product were really friendly and shared many hints and tips, their display was amazing.

"Powertex fabric and textile hardener is an environmentally friendly water-based liquid sculpting medium. Powertex can replace polyester for fabric hardening and textile hardening. Powertex can harden absorbent materials. Powertex is used for making sculptures, paintings, decorative objects and jewelry. Once dry your artwork can be decorated with oil paints, acrylics, latex or Powercolor mixed with Easy Varnish."

Here are some of the things that they had on display, using fabric and many things that you would probably find around your home you can create some beautiful designs

This was a cardboard box that was decorated with the hardened fabric

You can create bigger indoor and outdoor sculptures 

It can be used for both decorating sculptures and in mixed media projects

It is a bit messy and you will need gloves, though it is non toxic and will wash off your hands with soap and water, your clothes will not fair too well, so you need to cover up.

I brought one of their kits and have been blown away by the versatility of the powertex and other products that you can buy.  It has taken some of the things I have created to another level, I have used it in the mixed media paintings that I create, and I have just loved working with clay and have already used it in creating clothes for some of the art dolls. 

Here are some of the other things that I have been making...

Powertex used to create clothes

Mini Placs

Tea Box decorated with fabric

Mini Dogs

I have created a separate page on the blog with some of my other sculptures and creations.  I really recommend that you give Powertex and other products a try.  You can visit the site HERE

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

Clay Dolls - Grace

I wanted to share with you something that I started last year, but only just got around to finishing. I have been busy in my studio and also just reassessing a lot of things and so posting kind of got put to the side.  Anyway there are a lot of things I want to share over the next few weeks.

Having taken Soul Food 2014 it was in one of Mysteles classes where we made a clay doll.  Working with clay was newish to me, I had made a bowl and a few other things, but never really considered making a doll in anything other than fabric.

Grace - Clay doll

Well, I have grown realize as I have been making her how much I enjoyed working with clay, and this only came as I pressed in with trying to finish her.  When I got over half way to completing her, I saw that like my paintings she had a story.  I feel that each character has a story to tell, and a message meant for someone somewhere in the world and I am so pleased to have been able to let her bring her message of hope, love, peace and joy.

Her name is Grace, and she has been dressed in ribbed tights, a pinkish lace rimmed top and goldish/black shawl, head dress and a flower brooch, the head dress, shawl and top are made of fabric.  She has a clutch bag with her for the most important things she might need to carry
.

Accessorized with jewelry with beads and a mini key which unlocks hopes and dreams.  She and a chain at the back which allows you to hang her in a most prominent place.  I am hoping to find Grace a good home and will be putting her up in my Etsy store over the next few days.  

Grace has a story to tell!

She will be joined by some more clay art dolls that I will be making, as I explore this lovely way of expressing creativity. Watch this space!