The Happy Painter

My Favourite Color is Rainbow

2012-01-29T10:11:00.002-04:00

Making a mess, slopping on paint to see what happens ... it's a PERFECT Sunday morning!

Yoga & Written Journaling Class - Room for More!

2012-01-28T17:07:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited about the 4 week Yoga & Written Journaling class coming to the Satori Centre for Well-Being on Sunday Mornings, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m., February 5 - 26, 2012. And I need 3-4 more participants to make it a go!

Come explore that true, authentic place that journaling and yoga cultivate and nourish!

If you'd like to join us email me here.

The Journey of the Blue Tulips

2012-01-28T14:36:00.002-04:00

I started out with some paint roulette, drawing smalt blue, french ultramarine blue and phthalo turquoise. Turns out the phthalo turquoise had aged badly in the tube, so I was left with the two other blues. So I played and then the tulips appeared. And then while waiting for ALL THAT to dry I somehow ended up watching Brene Brown's TED Talk on the power of vulnerabilty (see link and video below) ... and ended up at a very different place. Great journey though ... and an excellent talk. My kind of thing ... being yourself. I highly recommend it.

www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability.html

Beep Beep

2012-01-28T09:16:00.002-04:00

Beep, beep.

That's the sound the snow plows made all night. It didn't make for a great night's sleep, but here it is Saturday morning, the roads are pretty good and the sun is shining ... and I'll be sure to schedule in a nap this afternoon.

All part of the Canadian winter experience!

No, thanks

2012-01-27T08:00:00.002-04:00

Yesterday's post of collaged images with a watercolour background became the inspiration for today's page.

Very fun ... I'll definitely try this approach again.

That's Okay

2012-01-26T09:00:00.002-04:00

One of the (many) inspiring ideas from the participants of last night's class was the combination of watercoloury backgrounds with collaged surrealistic images.

So this morning when I wrestling with my ego (represented by the canary) I did a quick magazine scan, snip, tape and wash. Also dug out my bag of Pigma Microns to try some non-black ink.

I generally prefer to use my own images for collage, but have to admit this was fun. And it might serve as inspiration to a future painted page.

2012 Vision Board in Progress

2012-01-24T20:43:00.001-04:00

Participated in a great vision board workshop last night - online on ustream with Elaine Shannon at Crystals and Karma in Rothesay. I'm going to sleep on it and then add some embellishment later in the week.

Photo 1 is how it looked last night, and photo 2 below is how it looks tonight. Fun!

Expressing your inner voice through creativity and yoga - The Aquinian, January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T12:30:00.003-04:00

Here's the article from my interview with Julia Whalen of The Aquinian about the upcoming Yoga & Journaling class running in February at the Satori Centre for Well-Being.

She did a great job with me ... talented lady!

Expressing your inner voice through creativity and yoga

For more information about the class visit my website or email me.

Do It On The Paper

2012-01-24T09:29:00.003-04:00

Playing around with colour directly on the paper this morning. No outcome in sight .... just want to see what happens.

I used DS Hansa Yellow, W&N Perm Aliz Crimson and W&N Prussian Blue here.

... I'm thinking about coming up with and trying out a new palette of colours again. Hmmmm ...

Happy Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T10:05:00.002-04:00

It's true. I find it hard to come to terms with being a pig under the Chinese horoscope system.

Oink.

Bah humbug!

Snort.

Just Another Magic Sunday

2012-01-22T11:07:00.002-04:00

It's a cold morning, but the sun is shining and my to-do list is blissfully short (or I am in denial about it's length.)

Started off with paint here ... ending up doodling with ink. It's very hard to stop ... but the smell of breakfast lured me away.

I treasure my magic Sundays, and do not take them for granted. The rationale for the title is that the line "Just another manic Monday" from the Bangles' song 'Manic Monday' was playing in my head.

Hand and Heart Shall Never Part

2012-01-21T12:00:00.002-04:00

Many years ago, I cross stitched a sampler with the words "Hand and Heart Shall Never Part." It hangs on a wall in my bedroom and has been the first thing I see every morning for 20 years.

I guess it kind of explains why I am and have always been a "Do what you love" kind of person, as well as the importance of loving what you do and doing what you do with love. But for me, "do what you love" always comes first.

I did some regular writing with wc pencils and then smudged it intentionally with water. A fun technique for semi-hiding what you've written. But I know what's there. I like that.

The Yoga and Written Journaling Class is Coming in February!

2012-01-19T10:44:00.006-04:00

I'm so excited about the 4 week Yoga & Journaling class coming to the Satori Centre for Well-Being on Sunday Mornings, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m., February 5 - 26, 2012.

Come explore that true, authentic place that journaling and yoga cultivate and nourish!

If you'd like to sign up please email me here.

Creative? I Am

2012-01-19T09:52:00.002-04:00

This is a page started with the inspiring and wonderful "Express Yourself with Watercolouring" class last evening, on the theme of affirming our creativity and giving ourselves permission to play in our journals.

I woke up this morning with a revised version of Sharon, Lois & Bram's children's song Skinnamarink playing in my head... and so, that's where the journal page wandered off to.

I never quite know WHAT will happen on the journal page, and that's probably what keeps me so in love with journaling.

Serendipity is a Strange and Wonderful Thing!

2012-01-18T11:27:00.010-04:00

As most of you have heard, I was thrilled last week to receive my copy of the Winter Edition of Art Journaling magazine which includes my article "Journaling as a Practice."

In reading the magazine, it came to my attention that my responses in the five "We Asked the Artists" sections of the magazine had been attributed to Joanne Sharpe, instead of to me. Turns out the misquote was a simple printing error. No harm done.

The serendipitous part is that I got to discover Joanne's art in the same issue and on her blog, and I had the good fortune of chatting on the phone with her. (Getting calls from artists from NYC - heady stuff for a small town Canadian lady, like myself!) All in all, a serendipitous week, it truly was.

For more information on Joanne Sharpe, visit her blog and check out the Letter Love 101 Online Class she has coming up in February.

My own watercolour and art journal work are best seen here or on flickr and I am on Facebook. I too, have an online class running in February - the second annual 21 Days in February: Explore Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling.

I am a Sky Watcher

2012-01-18T10:09:00.003-04:00

I am forever fascinated and amazed by the colors of the sky in the morning.

This morning I tried to capture some of the colors I saw both yesterday and today. I find some of the colors very hard to identify ... it's as if they are a fleeting bit of one-of-a-kind morning magic just for me.

Here

2012-01-17T10:30:00.003-04:00

This is a great example of a page that went somewhere I didn't care for.

I started off with reds and blues, and didn't like that at all. Sooo ... once I knew I didn't like it there was complete FREEDOM to go all out with it. Mistakes can be serendipitous, educational and soooooo much fun if you just go with it.

I don't know if I would call this page serendipitous, but I will say that I do like the end result better than that intial icky stage. And most importantly, I had a lot of fun layering on paint and tape and stamping paint on with various sized bottle caps.

She Didn't Know She Was Allowed to Stop

2012-01-15T09:27:00.002-04:00

It's true for me that I didn't know that I was allowed to stop before I started yoga. I pretty much lived in my head, my body just being the vehicle that transported me around. What a difference learning to relax and to move with my breath has made in my life. I'm grateful ... and much more able to go with the flow and to stop and relax.

Dah Do Ron Ron

2012-01-14T08:42:00.002-04:00

Saturday rocks! I can't help but sing ... and paint ... and play.

My Inner Critic Has A Big Butt

2012-01-12T12:37:00.002-04:00

I went as guest to a different yoga class today. I went to the back of the room (to go unnoticed) which worked fine until in downward facing dog I was faced with a backside view of myself in the mirror behind me. Eek ... is it really that big? Do I really look THAT old? Why do my feet look so weird? So much for staying in the present moment! I then looked down the length of the mirror to see how big everyone else's butts were. That little scenario took about 1.5 seconds ... and then I pulled myself together and brought my attention back to my breath.

I laughed with myself the whole drive home. Being human is so "interesting!" And, seriously, I am quite delighted to be here doing the stuff I love to do whatever shape and size I am. I am grateful indeed.

Yeehaw

2012-01-11T09:37:00.002-04:00

Yeehaw is my favourite word! (It's really strange ... I'm not from the wild west or anything.)

I'm using it this morning because a new watercolour journaling class starts tonight, and I can't wait to share and play. It's what I love to do.

Yeehaw!

Forward to the Past

2012-01-10T15:51:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow is the first evening of "Express Yourself with Watercolour Journaling" class at the Charlotte Street Art Centre. It's very cool for me to be teaching there because it's where I went to elementary school. A funny twist is that the Multi-Purpose Room where the class will be held is part of what was my Grade Three classroom. Grade Three was my least favourite year of elementary school, most memorable because the teacher - Mrs Ritchie - made me sit in the middle group (instead of the top group ... or whatever it was called) for about a month that fall because I had started the year two weeks late due to illness. I never forgave her for it.

I was a small child, but my ego was adult-sized even then. :-)

We're going to have fun!

Spin Me Round

2012-01-10T12:09:00.003-04:00

Even doing what you love involves some administrative tasks and I've been going at it like a wild woman since yesterday. Sooooo ... I'm a little scattered. Could it be that I try to fit in one too many priorities on my daily "get to" list?

Guess I'll do some yoga and eat lunch. The chill drill, so to speak.

Trust

2012-01-08T13:29:00.002-04:00

In honour of my six years of painting and the last day of the holiday school break I did a second page today.

Trust and small steps is my intention and my mantra, so I just keep on repeating it.

This page is inspired by Jill K Berry's work. Her lettering is amazing! I'm not neat, but I have fun.

Happy 6th Anniversary!

2012-01-08T08:44:00.003-04:00

It occurs to me that it has been six years since my first watercolour class. I truly had no idea what I was in for!

So much joy and comfort ... so many new doors and worlds have been opened ... and so many wonderful, creative and courageous people met. Each day is filled with adventure and unlimited possibility.

I'm more than grateful. I have been transformed.

(And I am more accepting of my mistakes ... including putting 2011 instead of 2012 on this page. Love it.)

Yes, I Can

2012-01-07T09:14:00.002-04:00

Things are starting to speed up as we move through January so it's important to be vigilant about maintaining balance and perspective. So a little pep talk with a reminder about the big picture was in order for me this morning.

I'm laughing myself silly because this kind of looks like someone fleeing from a fire and not quite like someone dancing in the fire. But maybe I need to think about both of those images ... and choose to dance, because I can! Yes, I can.

Local Yoga & Journaling Class

2012-01-06T15:08:00.002-04:00

The Yoga & Journaling Class is coming in February! (This is not an online class.)

Come explore that true, authentic place that written journaling and yoga cultivate and nourish. Bring a yoga mat, a journal and pen, and your shining self. No experience necessary. This will be a gentle yoga practice. Pre-registration is required. Email me here to register or for more information.

Taking My Joy Where I Find It

2012-01-06T08:33:00.002-04:00

School starts up on Monday, so this is the last quiet routine-free weekday morning of the holidays. I've enjoyed the holidays with the family around, but I am looking forward to a little less meal prep and cleaning and more interruption-free time to create next week.

With both the holiday and school day scenarios, I do my best to focus on taking my joy where I find it. And remembering to ease up on myself when I get grumpy when the house gets too crowded, messy and loud.

21 Days in February - Explore Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling

2012-01-05T08:51:00.003-04:00

21 days of creative prompts and sharing to tickle your fancy, delve your depths, nourish your silly-bone, and exercise your watercolour journaling skills! (This is an online class.)

For more info visit the Facebook event page at www.facebook.com/events/262184040500268/ or the Creativity Matters website at creativity-matters.weebly.com/january---march-2012-creati... or email me here.

Is it Contagious?

2012-01-04T09:24:00.003-04:00

I've watched others have such fun finding and adapting various containers to serve as travelling palettes for years. But I had not caught the urge ... UNTIL I spied this little empty chocolate box left over from the holidays. Dang, we had tons of these ... I wonder if they're still in the recycle box?

Thinking is Not All It's Cracked Up to Be

2012-01-04T08:37:00.002-04:00

Warm colours are in order on this nippy morning. And I'm not going to think either. Wish me luck with that.

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?

2012-01-03T10:36:00.002-04:00

This is my first quiet morning since before Christmas, so although I have a long "get to" list, I couldn't ignore the urge to do a second journal page.

I always have lots of ideas when I am procrastinating.

So why these picks?

Albert Einstein - He was brilliant and understood both logic and mystery.

Marilyn Monroe - She pairs nicely with Albert, and who was she really?

Don Cherry - It would be impossible to tear your eyes away ... like watching a train wreck.

Jesus Christ and the Buddha- What really happened way back then? Have we garbled your message? Any advice?

Stuart McLean - For humour, facilitation skills and peace making.

My Friend Clare - She would ask the questions that I forget to ask ... and then we could talk about it afterward.

I would probably like to have Rick Mercer and Ron James on standby in case anyone can't come. Or maybe they could be our servers.

Okay ... NOW back to work.

The Tao of Popeye

2012-01-03T09:11:00.003-04:00

When I find myself in times of trouble
Cartoon characters come to me
Speaking words of wisdom
[pause a beat] to me.

Some days I just wake up goofy. Go figure.

Curious by Nature

2012-01-02T15:08:00.002-04:00

I don't often have a grand design or idea before I sit down to do a journal page. Mostly I just want to see what happens. Sometimes I like the result, sometimes not. But the process of putting paint to page... THAT always rocks.

Yeehaw. Rock on.

Live. It's 2012!

2012-01-01T11:38:00.002-04:00

We had a lovely, quiet New Year's Eve. Good food and family.

... and it will soon be time for leftovers... again.

Happy New Year!

2011 Journal is a Wrap!

2011-12-31T11:26:00.003-04:00

So, I printed the digital image out on 140 lb Strathmore paper, added some ink to highlight the two most important words - TRUST (as in 'trust the journey' and 'go with the flow') and BE (as in 'do less, be more' and 'be yourself'), punched some holes ... and now my 2011 journal is complete.

I've printed on 90 lb paper often, but had never tried the 140 lb ... and it worked great. Yeehaw.

2011, I'm grateful. You were a peach of a year.

Wise Words for 2012

2011-12-31T07:54:00.005-04:00

I'm not one for New Year's resolutions, but I do love to celebrate the lessons and gifts of the past year and set some wise words for the New Year. So, these are my wise words for 2012. Thanks to those lovely ladies who inspired me on Facebook yesterday and to Laure Ferlita who got me started on wise words back in 2009.

This may turn into a journal page ... or not. It's hard to say. Or I could just print it out journal page size on 90 lb watercolour paper.

Happy New Year!

Found Poetry: Celebrate the Beauty

2011-12-30T09:11:00.005-04:00

This exercise comes from Quinn McDonald's new book on raw art journaling. The page is taken from C.S. Lewis' 'The Magician's Nephew.'

It was fun, fast ... and kind of eerily auto-biographical.

It's all about following your own bliss, no matter what the naysayers think, to celebrate the beauty of life.

Oh, but you can't.
They all fell,
their very names are forgotten.

Perhaps you fear this Magic.
I can see the truth whether you speak it or not.
Art for the love of beauty
has made a potent spell.

Still Enjoying 2011

2011-12-29T09:58:00.002-04:00

I suppose I should be thinking about intentions and goals for 2012, but I'm still enjoying 2011. I'm really getting into this relaxing in-between week.

On the other hand, I'm pretty sure that a lot of things I wrote down on January 1, 2011 actually did come true. It's been a fabulous year with lots of risk taking and new challenges, balanced with more peace and mindfulness than ever before. So I think I'll nap on some 2012 intentions for a few more days and then see what happens!

Journaling as a Practice - Art Journaling Magazine Winter Edition 2012

2011-12-29T08:19:00.000-04:00

The winter 2012 edition of Art Journaling magazine is now available for order online here. My article is titled "Journaling as a Practice." I can't wait to get my copy!

Just Goofin' Around

2011-12-28T13:04:00.002-04:00

I am definitely not in my painting groove this week, but will just keep on goofin' around until I find it again. The main thing is that I have fun, learn things ... and then turn the page. Kind of a metaphor for life, come to think of it. So here's to goofin' around!

Down Dog Tuesday

2011-12-27T13:25:00.002-04:00

The holidays were wonderful, but I'm pretty happy to have made it back to yoga and paint today.

Thinking of making a theme for January - hands and fingers! Not sure if I want that much challenge with all the other stuff that will be going on in the New Year. But then again ... why not? Journals are great places to practice.

January - March 2012 Yoga and Creativity Classes

2011-12-22T19:48:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited! In addition to my article in the Winter Edition of Art Journaling magazine hitting the newstands on January 1, 2012, I've got lots planned for the New Year.

Here's the full January - March 2012 Yoga and Creativity Class line-up. For more information visit my website here or email me here.

Free New Year's Gentle Yoga Class on Monday, January 2nd,10:00 - 11:15 a.m. at the Wellness Clinic Studio for 2011 class participants, friends and family. It's my thank-you for your support and a great way to ease ourselves oh-so-gently-but-jubliantly into the New Year. Pre-registration and a completed health form are required. Email me here if you would like to attend!

Express Yourself with Watercolour Journaling at the Charlotte St Art Centre
Wednesdays, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
January 11 - February 8, 2012
Fee: $100.00

Gentle Yoga at the Wellness Clinic Studio
Friday Mornings, 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.
January 13 – March 2, 2012 (8 weeks)
Fee: $100.00
Drop-ins welcome. Fee: $13.00/class with completed health waiver form.

Gentle Yoga at the Wellness Clinic Studio
Saturday Mornings, ~~9:00 - 10:15 a.m.~~ Note: Class time changed to 10:00 - 11:15 a.m
January 14 - March 3, 2012 (8 weeks)
Fee: $100.00
Drop-ins welcome. Fee: $13.00/class with completed health waiver form.

Yoga & Journaling at the Satori Centre for Well-Being
Sunday Mornings, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
February 5 - 26, 2012
(4 weeks)
Fee: $60.00

21 Days in February 2012: Explore Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling - Online Class
February 7 - 27, 2012
(21 Days)
Fee: $45.00 Canadian Funds

Joy

2011-12-22T09:02:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday to my eldest son who turns 21 today!

Best Christmas present ever.

Hurry It Up, Honey!

2011-12-21T08:04:00.003-04:00

Getting my teeth cleaned is not my favorite activity. You sit (for A-G-E-S doing nothing interesting, useful or fun) while someone (I swear) mines your teeth A-S S-L-O-W-L-Y A-S P-O-S-S-I-B-L-E for possible revenue opportunities for her boss, the dentist.

But I am thankful for having access to good dental care and for having teeth. Oh, and for NOT being a dental hygenist. So it's a win-win, in the end.

Added Later: Umm... soooo... turns out that I had the BEST dental hygenist ever this morning. She was fast, she was funny, she was fine. I am grateful. There's a lesson there. :-)

Too Much Waiting Around

2011-12-20T11:48:00.002-04:00

It's not always easy to be patient. And when it's a real struggle, I know that means I really need to take a breath, relax and let things flow where they may. And so I say ... flow on. :-)

I am a Woman with a Mission

2011-12-19T09:12:00.002-04:00

It may be cold, but I've got my master week-before-Christmas list ... and I'm well rested and raring to go. So, I'm grabbing my hat, scarf and gloves and I'm outta here!

Holding Your Heart in Your Hand

2011-12-18T12:20:00.002-04:00

It is a busy time of a year ... remember to be kind to yourself. Everything will get done, and if it doesn't, it's okay.

Okay? XO

Not Ready ... Ho Ho Ho!

2011-12-14T09:22:00.002-04:00

No, I'm not ready for Christmas ... but I shall keep plugging away at it. And I'll enjoy each moment of it.

Ho ho ho!

Merry

2011-12-13T10:13:00.002-04:00

Yay. It did leak. I had myself a merry little old time with this little journal page.

I love the time before Christmas. :-)

It's the Journey

2011-12-13T09:40:00.002-04:00

My love affair with tape continues... I sometimes want to leave it with the tape on 'cause I like the way it looks. One of these days, maybe I will. But not today because I'm TOO curious to see what it will look like when I take the tape off!

Journal Cheerleader

2011-12-12T10:03:00.002-04:00

A journal can be a great place to bring out and exercise your inner cheerleader. I brought mine out today and she kindly shared this quote from the Tao of Piglet with me...

"No one else will ever do
The special things that wait inside of you."

I think I'm good to go now! Rah. Rah!

Yogini in a Tree

2011-12-11T12:30:00.002-04:00

Our faux tree goes up before the real one. It's so much fun to see all the old ornaments that reflect different ages, stages and interests of our lives over the years. I've had some easels and paint ornaments on there for quite a few years, but just realized last night there were no yoga ornaments. So grabbed a scrap of Strathmore paper, added some gold Twinkling H2Os, punched a hole, added a string and there you have it. No kindergartener could be more pleased with herself. (Snort!)

Yes

2011-12-11T07:54:00.002-04:00

I'm visualizing a yes for something I'm hoping for this week. So this is almost like a mantra mandala.

It's quite fascinating - physiologically speaking - how the brain reacts to the word 'yes' in comparison to the word 'no.' So ... one more time .... YESSSSSS!

Red Doors

2011-12-10T12:53:00.002-04:00

Making messes on a Saturday. What could be more fun than that?

Boney Fingers

2011-12-08T09:52:00.002-04:00

Back in the 70s there was a country song called Boney Fingers. I can remember cracking up every time I heard the chorus. Still makes me laugh.

Listen to Hoyt Axton at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqf2daVP3yI

Of note, it appears that both "bony" and "boney" are in the dictionary ... so I've used both. :-)

How Beautiful Life Is

2011-12-07T12:11:00.002-04:00

I love this quote .... it's so true!!!

The full quote is:

"The more you paint, the more you realize how beautiful life is. To be alive. What a gift we have. That helps you get past the bad times." ~ Tony Bennett

Deer in the Headlights

2011-12-06T09:47:00.002-04:00

It's fun to play with layers and tape. The only drawback here is that I'd fogotten what I was thinking about at the start by the time I'd finished and wanted to add some words. Or maybe it was that I thought of too many things to put into words. Regardless, a fun diversion to dabble at while getting the boys up and out the door this morning.

Dion Dior & More ... An Artist You Should Know

2011-12-05T11:46:00.001-04:00

The talented and 'oh-so-colourful-I-love-that' Dion Dior invited me to guest post on her wonderful blog 'Dion Dior and More' today. She gives online classes, too. Check out her blog by clicking the blue link below.

Dion Dior & More ...: An Artist You Should Know:

Bigger

2011-12-05T10:15:00.002-04:00

It is definitely true that my appetite for life is bigger than my stomach. That's why I practice yoga and journaling ... to keep me from bursting!

Sunday

2011-12-04T10:40:00.002-04:00

Just playing around this morning. No destination, just enjoying the process.

Merry Marker Mayhem

2011-12-01T13:14:00.003-04:00

I got carried away with a thick marker on this gift tag sketch. I never like thick marker ... so why did I pick it up?

But...

Did I have fun?
Yes!
Is there something I like about it?
Yes, the colours!
Will I paint again tomorrow?
Yes, absolutely!
Am I glad it's December?
Yeeeesssssss!

There you have it. Great job, old bean. Carry on.

Endless

2011-11-30T13:42:00.003-04:00

There are so many possibilities, it can be hard to choose what to do first. I usually choose painting when that happens. And I got to use my triad from yesterday. :-)

Triads Are Curious Critters

2011-11-29T10:34:00.002-04:00

In a gross manipulation of my own paint roulette rules (where I am supposed to 'randomly' select colours), I intentionally picked perylene red, indian yellow and prussion blue to play with this morning. These are all colours that I've liked in the past.

And it turns out that I like these colours together. Setting the page upright to dry caused some mud in the bottom third, but there are some interesting neutrals there, too. Good to know. Fun to do.

Draft Layout for Holiday Card

2011-11-28T15:49:00.002-04:00

I'm collaging a holiday post card to send to those who have participated in my face-to-face creativity and yoga classes this past year. This is the pre glue layout. The odds of it staying as planned are likely slim!!!!

Made from print-outs of my own watercolour images and text.

Dreams Come True

2011-11-28T07:51:00.003-04:00

I am thankful for the dreams-come-true that I am living today and I look forward to seeing how they develop over time. Balancing going with the flow with setting intentions is an art I am still working on. It could ... perhaps ... be my life purpose to work that out!

Again

2011-11-27T19:41:00.003-04:00

I had time to work on another page before and after dinner time. It's been an odd painting day. I love colour always, but today it's like I'm slathering on brick mortar. I can't seem to get enough on the page.

Maybe it's because it was a very grey day and I didn't get enough fresh air!

There's Something About Ultramarine

2011-11-27T11:18:00.002-04:00

Today's random paint roulette selection was ultramarine (green shade.) After doing an initial background wash with the ultramarine, I disliked it intensely! (Really intensely.) So, I covered it up with recent paint roulette colours - winsor lemon, scarlet lake, permanent rose and cerulean blue.

The whole process was strangely unsettling. Perhaps the urge to control, rather than go with the flow won on this one. And I'm not so sure that's a good thing. Who knew journaling could be so enlightening? :-)

All I Want For Christmas is My New Found Peace

2011-11-26T12:39:00.003-04:00

For some reason I'm feeling 'Christmassy' early this year. It used to be sort of a mad marathon of functions, obligations and meeting self-imposed expectations. But not anymore. That's no doubt why I enjoy it all the more!

Call It Procrastination, If You Must

2011-11-25T14:03:00.003-04:00

Wonderful morning with some great ladies at yoga class. Arrived home with lots of energy and calm to tackle some housework. Yes, when I'm planning to do housework, I do my VERY best painting ... or maybe I just enjoy it all the more.

And all is not lost, I dusted and folded laundry between layers! Now back to it. Where's that vacuum cleaner?

(This is a piece of an old painting. I think the green line up the centre was a stem.)

Today is Your Day!

2011-11-25T08:46:00.002-04:00

It's a great gift to be able to start anew every day ... and a relief!

I was looking for "beginning again' quotes and this Dr Suess one came up. I love it. Perfect as I prepare for a yoga class this morning!

Shine Where You Are (Pep Talk)

2011-11-24T14:30:00.002-04:00

A journal page is a great place for a pep talk. Starting with a piece of a discarded painting makes it even easier and faster.

Made the human error of comparing myself with someone else today. And now I've had my pep talk and I'm over that. Being human is always so entertaining! SNORT. Loving kindness to all!

Courage is Bold

2011-11-23T07:22:00.002-04:00

This image from 2007 has been repurposed with another round of paint roulette, masking tape resist and ink. It's fun to just see what happens next. (I LOVE that.)

Today's random colour choices were: cadmium yellow, cerulean blue and permanent rose... all colours that I like, although none of them are on my current palette.

Paint to the Edge!

2011-11-22T09:26:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I like to select colours that are not on my current palette, just to see what happens. Today I drew scarlet lake, winsor lemon and indigo. I do use indigo often, but rarely scarlet lake ... and winsor lemon may be my least favourite colour because of it's opaqueness.

It's good to go outside of your comfort zone ... paint to the edge!

Logos for Love

2011-11-21T11:10:00.002-04:00

Playing with logos this morning. I don't do many ... I only logo for love. If it was work I wouldn't enjoy it. :-)

What to Do, What to Do

2011-11-21T07:58:00.002-04:00

This is the back of yesterday's page and the other half of the old rock practice piece from last week. I was tempted to skip it - it was so BLAND looking - and start a new page, but then thought better of it. Perhaps there really is more freedom when we have nothing to lose.

And there's no better way to start the day than with colour. Uh huh. Uh huh.

Graduation Memory - More Heartful Than Artful

2011-11-21T07:37:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I put special things in my art journal that don't involve painting.

These are leaves that I picked up during a walking meditation exercise on the last day of our 300 hour SYTT yoga teacher training on October 16th. I gel mediumed them on to the page last week. Because this was a special memory on its own there seemed no need to "art it up!"

Sunday Tunes

2011-11-20T11:05:00.002-04:00

I happily discovered this morning that my iTunes mysteriously works again.

So, I enjoyed a little music on my headphones and a little painting.... no outcome in mind, nowhere to go, nothing to do, nowhere to be but right here, right now.

Registration Now Open for 21 Days in February 2012: Explore Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling Online Class

2011-11-19T09:43:00.001-04:00

Online Class: 21 Days in February 2012: Explore Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling
Email me here to register! See the Facebook event page here.

21 Days of creative prompts and sharing to tickle your fancy, delve your depths, nourish your silly-bone, and exercise your watercolour journaling skills!

Overview: This class is for those interested in cultivating a journaling practice by responding to creative journal prompts. It is suitable for anyone who has taken a beginner watercolour class or has some basic experience with watercolour. You do not have to be an expert.

The objectives of this class are to:

- Express yourself

- Aid you in developing a regular art journaling habit

- Practice your watercolour skills

- Practice some simple writing exercises to enhance your journal-keeping

- Give your imagination a chance to come out and play

- Develop the risk-taker in you

- Have fun!!!

This class is not demo-based and technique critique will not be provided. The emphasis is on self-expression and responding to prompts in your own unique way. Breaking rules and imperfection are highly recommended.

Duration: February 7 to February 27, 2012.

Fee: $45.00 CDN funds via PayPal. (You do not have to be a PayPal member to use it. You can use a credit card.)

How It Works: To register send an email to me at donnamu66@yahoo.com. You will receive an email with information on how to pay via PayPal. Participation is confirmed when payment is received. Approximately 3-7 days before the class begins you will receive an email invitation to join the online 21 Days in February group on the Creativity Matters network hosted by ning.com. This is a private group open only to registered members of the class.

Starting on February 7, 2012, daily journaling prompt and inspiration PDF files will be posted to the 21 Days in February group. You will be able to download the PDF files to your own computer and will be able to post your work and comment on others work. If you choose not to post your work, that is okay, too.

Please note that the daily journal prompt sheets are intended for class participant use only. Participants are encouraged to share their completed pages on their photo-sharing sites, blogs, websites, etc.

The 21 Days in February group and its contents will be deleted approximately two weeks after the class ends.

Technical Requirements: You must have access to a computer with email, Internet and PDF file reading capability, and be familiar with using these programs. (Adobe Reader can be downloaded for free at: http://get.adobe.com/reader/ ) Please note that computer, camera, scanner, software, photo-editing or posting support is not provided.

Supplies:

- Watercolour sketchbook, watercolour paints and brushes of your choice

- Pencil, eraser, black marker/ink, masking tape (or painters tape), scissors, glue and a ruler. (For glue, soft gel medium is recommended, but is not required. An ordinary glue stick or other white or craft glue will work.)

- Access to a printer or photocopier to make a black & white copy of a photo of yourself

- Anything else that you want! (You can never have too many art supplies.)

Cancellation Policy: No refunds will be provided. The journal prompt sheets can be downloaded and used in future, if not in February.

Here's a prompt page from the 2011 class.

January 1, 2012: Winter Issue of Art Journaling Magazine!

2011-11-18T17:24:00.001-04:00

I'm happy to report that it is now confirmed that my article and artwork will appear in the Winter issue of Art Journaling magazine to be on the magazine shelves and available for order online January 1, 2012. What a great way to start a new year!

Serve With Our Gifts

2011-11-17T09:26:00.003-04:00

Several years ago I was doing a lot of reading about service. It left me thinking that I should do whatever I was asked to do to the best of my ability. I still believe in doing my best, but I've learned that I serve best when I'm sharing my authentic self and using my best gifts. So saying 'no' to what doesn't work for you is the courageous and wise thing to do.

There wasn't much room on the back of yesterday's small journal page - a piece of a recycled painting - to fit that in ... but I've managed it!

Art Journaling Magazine Article Update

2011-11-16T20:17:00.002-04:00

Big day!!!! Received the layout preview of my article for Art Journaling magazine. Yeehaw!!!

The closest thing I could find to a jumping for joy image was this old November 2008 one done in watercolour pencil.

Why My Journal Pages Have Holes

2011-11-16T13:08:00.002-04:00

To answer the question of why there are holes in my journal pages I've posted this photo of my current journal in progress. For this journal, I am using document rings and a temporary cardstock cover. When I'm done with it, I will make the final journal cover.

Thanks for asking the question!

Yes IS the Word

2011-11-16T09:48:00.002-04:00

I let my inner coach out to play this morning. And she says:

Yes.
Yes, I can.
Small steps.
Trust.
Yes.
Of course!

Try it. It feels great! Yeeeeesssss!

Watercolour on a piece of a discarded painting.

Om for the Holidays - New Classes!

2011-11-16T08:51:00.000-04:00

Come om to gentle yoga at the Wellness Clinic Studio in November & December and in 2012. Beginners welcome! Pre-registration required for all classes.

Holiday gift certifcates available. Contact me here.

Gentle Yoga
November 18 – December 16, 2011
(5 weeks)
Friday Mornings, 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.

Gentle Yoga
January 13 – March 2, 2012 (8 weeks)
Friday Mornings, 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.

Gentle Yoga
January 14 - March 3, 2012 (8 weeks)
Saturday Mornings, 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

Two New Watercolour Journaling Classes for 2012

2011-11-15T18:27:00.002-04:00

Just in time for holiday gift giving, two new watercolour journaling classes are planned for 2012. Gift certificates available!

Express Yourself with Watercolour Journaling
Wednesdays, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
January 11 - February 8, 2012
Charlotte St Art Centre
For all levels of experience including beginners.
Fee: $100.00 CDN

21 Days in February: Exploring Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling
Online Class
February 7 - 27, 2012
For those who have had at least a beginners watercolour class.
Fee: $45.00 CDN

Email me here for more information!

Better with Age

2011-11-15T08:14:00.002-04:00

This was an old rock painting exercise. I played with it to make it look old and 'antiquey.' (Really, I just played with it with no outcome in mind.)

Occupy Your Mat

2011-11-14T07:26:00.002-04:00

Today's page was done on a 1 by 6 inch scrap from an old painting. It was fun to play on such a small surface. It started out as flowers and ended up as trees ... I love that about journaling!

Warm Me Up!

2011-11-13T12:08:00.002-04:00

I'm feeling cold today, so thought I'd paint something to warm me up. I used masking tape as a resist and then I really liked the way the tape turned out, so it became my frame.

And, yeah, I think I'm a bit warmer now.

Dana A for JKPP

2011-11-13T10:17:00.003-04:00

I love to paint much, MUCH more than draw. It's the thrill of seeing what the paint will do next that I find most exciting.

See: http://www.flickr.com/groups/portraitparty/discuss/72157628024727816/

Thanks

2011-11-11T10:47:00.002-04:00

That's all that needs to be said today.

Peace, Love & Remembrance

2011-11-11T09:57:00.002-04:00

It's Remembrance Day here in Canada and so I say "thank-you."

Big Dreams... Or Too Much Coffee?

2011-11-10T07:26:00.005-04:00

I really don't require a second cup of coffee to get going in the morning, but sometimes I forget.

Lost in the Trees

2011-11-09T09:48:00.006-04:00

As the page says ... one of these days I will find my yoga-art painting style.

Guess I'll just keep practicing.

Small steps.
Trust.
Balance.

Kinda Weird

2011-11-09T06:48:00.004-04:00

When I don't know what to paint, but want to slosh paint around I sometimes randomly open a page in a catalogue for inspiration. That's what I did this morning.

Regardless of the photo and catalogue model I choose these journal ladies often end up looking the same. Kinda weird... but kinda fun.

One Thing

2011-11-08T10:08:00.005-04:00

I have tons of ideas I would like to develop and implement. But often my expectations of what I can accomplish in a given time period or the obstacles that arise can leave me feeling a bit disappointed.

This morning I took a few moments to document some of the things I've taken on this year, and I was quite surprised when I saw the list. I really have gone beyond my comfort zone in more ways than I have been giving myself credit for.

So the theme for today's page focuses on paying attention to doing and giving myself credit for one thing ... and not berating myself for the things that don't get done. I'm breathing easier and smiling already!

Monday

2011-11-07T08:02:00.002-04:00

Painted, scissored and glued while wrangling the highs schoolers out the door this morning.

The flower and eye are painted in watercolour and the background is a page from Anne of Green Gables.

Maybe will paint something later... but this was a great way to use wrangling and waiting time.

Dreaming for 2012 - Stay tuned!

2011-11-06T11:30:00.001-04:00

Soooo .... dreaming up new journaling, yoga and creativity class and workshop ideas for 2012. On deck, for sure, is an all new online 21 Days in February - Explore Your Creativity with Watercolour Journaling, in follow-up to the 2011 version. Stay tuned for more information over the coming weeks. I LOVE class development!

Irreplaceable (Printer Obituary)

2011-11-06T09:55:00.003-04:00

My printer has been making loud, obnoxious noises lately. Or at least it was... until about an hour ago, when it seemed to expire altogether. Of course, it IS replaceable. I'm just showing it due respect for the many good times we've shared.

Now that I have this opportunity to get a new printer, I would like to have one that I can make archival quality prints with. Anyone have any recommendations? I'm stumped.

(Note: The lady image is blurred. It's not you. It's the last thing the dear departed spat out. Loyal to the end... and hey, it still scans!)

Collaged print outs of my own images with words from yesterday's newspaper.

Something Better

2011-11-06T07:24:00.002-04:00

Keep on putting yourself out there.

Believe.
Be persistent.
Be positive.
Be yourself.
And have fun!

It'll be alright. Trust me.