There’s something about starting a painting without a clear plan that I love because you never know where it will end up.
I began this one as a simple tree study—just focusing on branches, shape, and the fun, colorful patterns of the tree bark. But somewhere along the way, I started to see something else forming. At first it was just a suggestion… and then suddenly, there it was—a dog, tucked into the lines of the tree.
It’s funny how that happens.
Once I saw it, I couldn’t unsee it. So I followed it. One dog turned into another, and then another, until the whole piece shifted into something entirely different. What started as a tree became Dog Wood—a kind of hidden world where blue dogs are woven into the branches.
The blue came naturally. It felt a little dreamlike, a little playful, and just slightly unexpected against the structure of the tree. So far the dogs are obvious, and I’m wondering if I should add some that are more subtle—the kind you almost have to sit with it for a moment before they start to appear. I will have to keep working on it and see.
I love when a painting does that. When it changes direction on its own and becomes something I didn’t plan, but somehow feels more right because of it.
This one still feels like it’s unfolding, but I’m enjoying seeing where it wants to go. I will post an update after it is finished. I do like the title so far “Dog Wood” as I love a play on words but I might add to it to make it more lyrical. I will have to wait until it is done and see what comes to me.
Six things about me and my experience that might surprise and delight you.
1. My husband, Greg, and I once drove straight through a rainbow. For a fleeting three seconds, we were completely surrounded—an endless shimmer of tiny rainbows scattering in every direction, like we were inside a living prism. Then, just as suddenly, it vanished as we passed through to the other side. I’m grateful Greg saw it too, because it felt so unreal I might have convinced myself it was only a dream—but it really happened.
2. I was hypnotized once and, in that strange, quiet space, I met my feminine self. She stood with a long black braid falling down her back, her presence strong and calming, like she belonged to something older than memory. Without speaking, she placed a feather in one of my hands and a stone in the other. I took them, feeling their difference—one light, one heavy—and crossed my arms over my chest, holding them there as if they mattered more than I understood. Even now, it feels like a message I haven’t fully unraveled.
3. When I was 36, a man I had been dating—someone I’d only recently parted ways with—took his own life. It shook me in a way I wasn’t prepared for and left me with a stark, unshakable truth: life is fragile, and it doesn’t wait.
In the aftermath, I felt a strong pull to step away from everything familiar. I packed a backpack and spent three months traveling through Europe, moving between hostels and small hotels, meeting strangers who became temporary companions along the way. Together, and sometimes alone, I gathered moments and experiences that have stayed with me ever since.
That journey changed me. I learned how to take care of myself in unfamiliar places, how to trust my instincts, and how to stand on my own with a quiet confidence. More than anything, I came home knowing, deep down, that I would be okay.
4. When I was 37, I felt a pull to leave Seattle, the city I’d always known and start somewhere new. I wrote down three options—San Diego, Albuquerque, and New York City—folded them into slips, dropped them into a hat, and picked one. New York City.
I followed that decision and stayed for nearly three years, allowing the experience to shape me in unexpected ways. It was there that my painting style began to take form, and I exhibited my work with the 14th St Painters while working out of a studio in Manhattan. But at 40, something shifted again, I found my way back to the Northwest, and this time, I didn’t need chance to guide me—it simply felt right.
5. When I was 45, my first husband passed away from colon cancer. Before he died, he made it clear that his little bachelor-pad casita in Baja, Mexico, was meant for me—he wouldn’t hear of it going to anyone else.
A few years later, I met Greg, and together we took on that place as a shared labor of love. Over the next 18 years, we poured ourselves into it—repairing, rebuilding, and slowly shaping it into something I know would have made Peter proud. We made the long drive down the Baja peninsula from Washington or Oregon and back nearly 30 times, each trip becoming part of the story.
Those years are filled with memories I still carry vividly—camping on quiet beaches with our border collies, watching the sun melt into the horizon, and savoring some of the most incredible Mexican food and margaritas I’ve ever had.
6. In 2023, I drew an image of a woman cradled in a giant hand—it felt like the hand of the Universe, holding her safely and protectively. One month later, I found myself in Bali on a yoga retreat, and there I was, sitting in the palm of a huge hand sculpture. It felt so uncanny, like something I had imagined had come to life. How amazing is that?
It’s Thanksgiving, and I just want to wish you a heartfelt, grateful day of Thanks. Whatever you’ve got cookin’ to celebrate—whether it’s feasting, relaxing, or just soaking up the good vibes—I hope it warms your heart.
The article drew me in. I immediately wanted to answer the questions so here they are from the article and my answers.
What’s something small that made you smile today? My friends dog Bandito and his cute little face with his funny overbite.
What’s something beautiful you’ve noticed in nature lately? The flowers in our yard are so gorgeous!
What’s one thing you love about where you live? The sunshine and ocean view (in Todos Santos, Baja, Mexico)
What’s one thing you’re grateful for at your work or school? Being creative.
What’s a simple pleasure (like your morning coffee or a cozy blanket) that makes your day better? Loving on our doggies, Nikki and Riley. They brings me such joy!
What’s one thing your body allows you to do that you’re grateful for? I love doing yoga and glad my body is limber to be able to.
Who’s someone in your life you’re thankful for, and why? I am thankful for my sister as she is so supportive, a good listener and we must have a similar sense of humor as I love a good belly laugh with her!
Who’s a friend or family member that has supported you recently? My husband is my biggest fan and supporter.
What’s one thing you’re proud of accomplishing recently? I’ve been selling my designs on Amazon tshirts and I’m reaching some of my goals.
What’s one piece of advice you’re thankful you received? Believe in your dreams, keep reaching toward them and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t.
What’s something you’ve learned recently that made your life better? I am learning how to craft using toilet paper rolls and it’s great to use and recycle something to keep it out of the dump.
What’s a challenge you overcame that taught you a lesson you’re grateful for? Try to use my spanish even though it is challenging. It’s the only way to improve!
What’s a meaningful gift you’ve received? I received hugs from some new friends and that felt like a gift.
What’s a random act of kindness you experienced? A nice Happy Thanksgiving text message from my cousin. 🙂
What’s a skill or talent you have that you’re grateful for? Making art!
What’s a hobby or interest that adds value to your life? Sunset watching! I love it. The ocean and sunset views from our deck our so inspiring.
What’s a tradition or holiday that you look forward to? I am looking forward to Christmas.
What’s a place you’ve visited that made you feel happy or inspired? Going down to the beach near our house and walking in the sand and looking at the ocean. And maybe seeing whales spouting.
What’s one thing you’re looking forward to right now? Experiencing the holiday season with Christmas decorations, gift giving and holiday events.
What’s a happy memory that brings you joy? All the fun travels we have done. This year we went to Mexico City and Oaxaca.
How about you? Any happy memories you want to share?
I love raven art mugs! Ravens are such mischievous, interesting creatures! Some people love them, some people hate them. I love them! I don’t have any raven mugs for sale yet but maybe one day I will. But you can find raven art prints in my Etsy Shop.
A number of years ago, one of my art collectors, sent me this gorgeous mug by Natalie Warrens, a Portland, Oregon artist. I love the black with the blue background and the red spirals. It’s very dreamy!
It’s funny how one tends to pick certain mugs to drink from and I love having favorite mugs to choose from depending on how I’m feeling.
I thought you might like to see some other cool raven mugs that I found online. I know some of these might seem expensive but you can’t put a price on art and how much joy it brings you every time you see or use it! Plus they are handmade!
I will note, some of these mugs are no longer available for sale but perhaps the artist will do a custom order for you if you find one you love.
This one is from The Clay Bungalow on Etsy. I love how the raven is bowing to pick up the cherry. The spots of red and yellow leaves with the black is striking. The way the leaf and berries wrap into the inside is cool too.
Gaean Allusions Studio has made this ceramic raven mug below which has a very whimsical quality. And you know I love whimsical!
Kick The Moon Studio has made this black and white one. I like the raw quality of it. I also like the little button on the handle to put your thumb!
You can find lots of cool mugs at Crazy Cat Lady Ceramics on Etsy. This one is great with the icons and the raven. I love a magical looking cup! And I like the sepia tone on this one with the white background. It’s unique.
Chris Hudson and Shelly Hail are the artists at Crazy Cat Lady Ceramics and they write, “The raven is a symbol of eternal life and the link between heaven and earth. The other talismans like the hamsa and the hexagram all represent good luck and protection. With every sip, the user is calling in the good and keeping out the bad. It’s a good luck magic cup!”
The Pagan Slip has these handmade and slab built raven mugs available. I like the colors and the position of the crow that looks like it is dancing.
Wild Crow Farm Pottery (don’t you love the names of these pottery studios) has this whimsical raven butterfly mug. So cute!
This one is gorgeous! I love the wings spread on this raven by Retro Ramics. Charlene and Amy are the ceramic artists who make these beautiful illustrations on their mugs. As they say, “It is a hand-crafted one-of-a-kind artwork (small imperfections are implicit in the process). Each mug is unique.”
Hope you enjoyed looking at the raven mug images. Do you have a favorite ceramic artist? Let me know in the comments below.
We have been wanting to get back into traveling since Covid slowed us down. Now we are finally doing it! We are headed to Mexico City this week and also to Oaxaca. I am so excited! Both are such creative, artistic cities! We’ve done a bunch of research and gotten lots of recommendations. We’ve looked at different museums to visit and I want to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum as I love her self portraits! They each seem to tell a story. I love paintings that tell a story.
Frida Kahlo
So if you don’t know, Frida Kahlo was a prominent Mexican artist known for her vibrant and emotional paintings, often depicting her own life experiences and struggles. Her art was influenced by her physical and emotional pain, stemming from a childhood polio infection and a near-fatal bus accident in her teens. Her work is characterized by its surreal and symbolic elements, reflecting her tumultuous personal life, indigenous Mexican culture, and political activism. She is such an icon for independent women and her personality quite a force I understand. You have to admire that with all she went through.
I once saw her work when I was in Santa Fe, New Mexico and I would love to see more of it.
Painting Frida
In honor of our trip to Mexico City, I have been doing some painting of Frida portrait art.
So I’ve always wanted to do a Frida portrait. But for some reason I never have. Until now.
It all started by chance. I had three small paintings I was working on. Acrylic on paper. Sort of Mexican desert scenes. After awhile of working on them, I started to get frustrated. I didn’t like them at all. They seemed too contrived. So I started covering them over in paint and a portrait started to emerge in one of them and then I thought of Frida. And there you have it. She came to life in my painting.
I continued painting on the other two, covering over the desert scenes with faces. And they too turned into Frida Kahlo faces. But I didn’t think they really look like her — just her character — so I started calling them my Frida Sister paintings. So they are her but they are not her. More like the essence of her.
I might do a touch more work on them but mostly they are done. I am curious. Which one is your favorite? And have you been to Mexico City and what is your favorite museum there?
I will leave you with this poem. I wanted a poem that talked about Frida Sisters. Something that could relate to my painting’s theme.
Frida Sisters Poem
by Anonymous
Frida’s sisters, fierce and fond, In vibrant strokes, they paint their bond.
Through trials, tears, their spirits soar, In Frida’s art, their souls explore.
In pain, passion, they persist, With bold colors, truths insist.
With brush in hand, they dance and sing, Echoes of hues, their voices bring.
Sisters, bound by art’s embrace, In grace, they find their rightful place.
Through Frida’s eyes, they seek to see, Strength within, the will to be.
In canvas, solace they find, Bound in promise, their souls entwined.
It seems so obvious now because I love Boho art decorating but I didn’t realize until recently that is where my colorful art fits in.
Boho art decorating involves incorporating vibrant and eclectic artwork, often characterized by colorful prints, into a space to create a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere. That is me! I love boho decor! And my artwork fits right into that style.
In boho decor, colorful art prints can serve as focal points, adding personality and energy to the room. These prints often feature bold geometric designs, nature-inspired imagery, abstract patterns, or cultural motifs. They may be displayed in mismatched frames or hung directly on the wall to create a dynamic and layered look
Boho art decorating encourages creativity and individuality, allowing for a mix-and-match approach where different styles and themes can coexist harmoniously.
The use of colorful art prints and pillows as well as linens adds warmth, depth, and visual interest to the space, contributing to the laid-back and free-spirited vibe characteristic of boho decor.
Here are some tips to help you incorporate boho art prints into your decor:
Choose a Focal Point: Select a prominent wall or area in your space where you want to display your boho art prints. This could be above a sofa, bed, or fireplace mantel.
Mix and Match Prints: Embrace the eclectic nature of boho style by mixing and matching different prints and art styles. You can combine prints with various motifs such as florals, geometric patterns, animals, or abstract designs.
Frame Selection: Consider the style and color of frames for your prints. Boho decor often features natural and textured materials like wood, rattan, or distressed metal. You can also opt for mismatched frames for a more eclectic look.
Create a Gallery Wall: Arrange your boho art prints in a gallery wall display for a dynamic and visually appealing focal point. Mix different sizes and orientations of prints to add visual interest.
Layering and Texture: Incorporate texture into your display by layering different elements such as textiles, macramé hangings, or woven baskets with your boho art prints. This adds depth and dimension to your decor.
Consider Color Palette: Boho decor often features a rich and earthy color palette with warm tones like terracotta, mustard, teal, and ochre. Choose prints that complement your existing color scheme or add pops of color to brighten up the space.
Accessorize with Plants: Bring in some greenery with potted plants or hanging planters to enhance the natural and organic feel of your boho decor. Plants also add freshness and life to your space.
Personalize Your Space: Incorporate personal touches such as photos, souvenirs, or handmade artwork alongside your boho art prints to infuse your space with character and personality.
Balance and Symmetry: Maintain balance and symmetry in your display by evenly distributing the artwork and ensuring that the arrangement feels cohesive and harmonious.
Experiment and Have Fun: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different arrangements and combinations until you find a layout that feels right for your space. Have fun expressing your creativity and personality through your boho art prints!
When you’re ready to purchase some artwork for your boho art wall, my Etsy Shop will be ready for you! 🙂
Lumaprints, who I partnered with a few years ago, asked me to be a Partner Spotlight Artist for their blog. It features an artist interview and photos of my work.
I love artist’s interviews and have done a few over the years such as the one for Art is Fun. So I was thrilled to do it. I love partnering with Lumaprints as they make beautiful prints!
My customers love the prints too! You can read some of my 5 star Etsy Reviews in my Etsy Shop.
I like the article’s introduction. Particularly where they say – “Lindy, an acrylic painter and creator of vibrant, whimsical art, resides in the Pacific Northwest and draws inspiration from the region’s lush landscapes. With a passion for infusing her creations with vivid hues, her work reflects her energy and joy. Her art marries the beauty of nature with expressive artistry, offering a feast of color for the eyes and soul.”
Inspired by vivid color and nature
I feel energized and happy when creating with vivid colors. Nature inspires me with birds, trees, and shapes like my favorite, the swirl! You can see my style in these pieces below.
A few things I love about my artist feature, besides the introduction are the great questions such as about my creative process and other questions like – How do you handle creative blocks or challenges in your work? and Can you share some of your most successful pieces on Etsy, and what you believe contributed to its success?
I enjoy reading the Partner Spotlight series myself! Reading what other artists are doing and finding new art to admire is inspiring! Every artist has a story and I especially love learning an artist’s process and what inspires them.
While in Mexico last year I made a few painted recycled planter boxes. I used the large black plastic planter boxes from the nursery that some of our other plants came in. For others, I used recycled washing machine drums.
Below I will show you some of each.
To make the painted recycled planter boxes, I first washed them really good and got the dirt off. Then I covered the used plastic planters with a couple coats of gesso. I like Liquitex professional white gesso which I buy in the one gallon size. Or the gesso I get from Utrecht. They both also have smaller sizes and a basic version which is less expensive.
The gesso helps the acrylic paint stick to the surface and not peel off when the planter boxes get hot in the sun.
I made a sketch of what I wanted on the planters. Then I painted that on the sides. After putting on a couple coats of acrylic paint, I covered it with a clear shiny acrylic varnish.
I think these recycled planter boxes held up pretty well seeing as it has been a whole year in the sun. The shiny finish on them has dulled a bit but the color is still vibrant.
That goes to show how well the Utrecht acrylic paint holds up. Utrecht is the brand of paint I like because it covers really well. The density is great and I love the vivid colors. Check the recycled planter boxes out below.
The one below is a recycled planter box using hibiscus flowers as my inspiration. We have a bunch of hibiscus in the yard and I love that flower. I also made a colorful hibiscus painted mural a couple years ago.
I used a different technique on the recycled sugar skull flower planter boxes below. I used a recycled washing machine drum. I coated it first with gesso like the others. Then I painted it using white paint for all the line work.
After it dried, I went over it with a transparent wash, adding more color. Then I finished it with a coat of acrylic clear varnish.
I am pretty happy with the way they look with the more mature plants in them now. I think they add a lot to our garden space. Hope you enjoyed looking at them.
I love working in Photoshop or Illustrator to create designs to put on tshirts and home decor. Recently I created a Day of the Dead Sugar Skull tshirt design.
My digital download Affirmation Card Deck is one tool I use for creating the life that I want to live. I believe these positive words help me manifest my goals and keep positive energy running through my life.
To help you with having positive affirmations in your life, I’ve created a few digital download Affirmation Card Decks which you can purchase inexpensively in my Etsy Shop. Print them out and use them in your personal projects. They are not for commercial use or for reselling.
Above all, they can help you get to the heart of what you want to create in your life. It’s sort of like reprogramming your mind to think a certain way. I believe we are what we think we are. So using positive affirmations is self-talk that can benefit you in lots of ways!
Positive Affirmation Card Decks
The best way you phrase positive affirmations is if they are already true. Not that you would like them to be true but that they already are true!
Sometimes your mind will register a negative word even though you are saying it positively. So be careful how you word affirmations. You may say, “I no longer feel stress” but the word stress is what your mind hears so if you say instead, “I feel peace within” you are more apt to actually feel peaceful.
There are so many places you can put these cards so you see them during the day. Put them on the fridge, on the bathroom mirror, your window sill, in your pocket or purse. Tape it to the dash in your car or on your computer screen. Remind yourself how wonderful and creative you are with these affirmations!
Sometimes I will pick a card for the day and repeat the affirmation throughout my day. I love the little reminder and to help me with staying fit.
Intention Words Card Deck
And there is a deck with individual intention words. Get started using intentions with this colorful card deck.
By setting an intention before you get up in the morning or before your meditation or yoga practice, it allows the Universe to know how you would like your life to proceed. My Intention card deck comes with an instruction sheet on how to use them with intention sentences.
Artist Use of the Intention Deck
If you are an artist, you can also use these cards to inspire you while you paint! Are you stuck with what to paint next? Pick a card from the deck, for example it might be the “Passion” card. What mark or image can you make that represents that word? Maybe use red in your next paint stroke, or make a heart or kiss shape.
Then pick another card. Maybe it is the “Quiet” card. What represents that word? Is it a soft breeze? A light stroke? Paint what you feel when you think of that word. Or use the colors from the cards. Pick a card and use the colors from it in your next paint strokes. Let your imagination take over and tap into your intuition.
Free Bookmarks
There are also 3 free om lotus bookmarks with all the downloads.
I’ve always loved celestial things. They are magical. I love the stars and the moon and what they represent.
For me, their symbolism is about how we are all connected. How the permanency of earthly things is fleeting but the universe is endless!
The universe is always there and always will be. Long after we are not on this earth.
Inspired by Celestial Quotes
Quotes that mention stars, the galaxy, planets and the universe are so inspiring! I’m always attracted to them.
“I think the Earth and everything around it is connected – the sky and the planets and the stars and everything else we see as a mystery.” — Sarah Brightman
“Though my soul may set in darkness, it will rise in perfect light; I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night.” — Sarah Williams
“Be clearly aware of the stars and infinity on high. Then life seems almost enchanted after all.” — Vincent Van Gogh
Celestial Events
A couple years ago, the solar eclipse left a huge impression on me. There was an infinity of half moons floating around our yard. Not many people know about this but I took some photos to prove it. And I captured them in two paintings I titled “In the Shadow on the Floating Moons I and II” And recently, we experienced the lunar eclipse.
When we were in Baja we were able to see the lunar eclipse very clearly! It was if the moon was a little ball hanging in the sky and you could reach up and pluck it from the sky. The 3-D imagery of it was incredible.
These celestial events have inspired me to create this print.
I’ve created a celestial digital download print using some of the imagery from one of my paintings. It is a single mason jar filled with the universe. Pure magic in a jar.
You are stars and light
“You are stars and light” digital print
With a file size that is 8″ x 10″, it will print out nicely on a 8.5″ x 11″ sheet of paper.
I’ve used Photoshop to enhance and create the imagery. I really enjoy creating digital art using my paintings! Moreover, I’ve been using Procreate to make art so stay tuned for more imagery from that.
I painted this colorful celestial artwork intuitively as I often do with my art.
Sometimes my paintings feel as if they develop all by themselves and I am just the channel for the creativity.
When I was through with it the title “Sending Love and Healing Light” instantly came to me as that was what I was feeling from it. It uplifted me and I felt the positive energy radiating from it. I love the celestial theme and colors.
I decided to dedicate it to my hubby, Greg, as he was feeling under the weather and could use some healing energy. So I told him I was “Sending Love and Healing Light” to him with this painting and he said that made him feel good. Yay!
Colors of yellow, oranges and red are featured in this new whimsical bike painting. It’s a red mountain bike with an adventurous raven riding along through a colorful woodland. I use vivid blue to contrast with the orange around the tires to represent movement and energy.
I think this is a fun addition to my bike and raven series. I’ve titled it “A Wild and Wondrous Ride.” It is 12″ x 12″ and painted on a wood panel with black painted 1.5″ sides.
I like to show whimsy in my paintings by adding the little white details like the petals on the tires. This is a play on words as you pedal a bike.
Additionally, you can see a part of the title in my piece toward the bottom where it says WILD. If you look in some of my other bike paintings you will also notice a hidden word from the title.
The flag banner represents peace as I use the colors of prayer flags. It also represents fun and I like to add it in some of my bike paintings.
You can see some of my other bike and raven paintings in my Etsy Shop as well.
Also, I list different sizes available but if you need a custom size, just send me an email and I can give you an estimate for cost and make you a custom listing.
This is a repost from March of 2015 with a couple modifications.
I’ve listed 10 things that I try to do to attract positive energy into my life. I’ve put a positive affirmation to go with each one.
1. Accept myself and my situation as I am living right now, in this moment. Live here right now. Practice non-judgement and just let what is be.
I accept and appreciate my current situation.
2. Still my thoughts and meditate a little bit every day. Be silent and just be. I’ve been doing Reiki self healing on myself every day and that feels really good.
I feel fully connected to my experience of life.
3. I visualize myself in positive ways. You are your thoughts, so choose the good ones as they say.
Every cell in my body is healthy and radiates health.
4. Give myself or others a gift and be grateful. It can be a compliment, a smile, a hug, a little piece of dark chocolate or a flower but think of it as appreciation and love for myself and others. Feeling grateful for what I have lifts me up.
I am grateful for all the positive things in my life.
5. Take time out to daydream. I have a dream journal and visualize myself accomplishing my goals. You can write out some steps on how you can accomplish what you want out of life.
I am devoting time and energy toward my goals.
6. I set my intention to be happy and I don’t get wrapped up in drama. You deserve happiness and success and don’t let anyone tell you different.
I am a magnet for happiness and success in my life.
7. Have faith. I believe I am right here in the right moment, doing exactly as I am supposed to. I trust in the universe that if things are not going as planned that there is something better out there for me. It will show itself in time.
All that I need comes to me at the right time and place in my life.
8. Let go and detach. Accept others for who they are. I think it’s true if you hold on to anything too tightly, there is a blockage of energy that happens. So let go and relax. It will all be okay!
I accept everyone as they are and continue to pursue my dreams.
9. Seek out my own unique talents. For me, that’s doing my Art. Every person has something unique about them. If you live your life by asking yourself how you are best suited to serve others with your highest and best self, I believe things will start to unfold for you.
I acknowledge and honor my talents, and share these with others.
10. Laugh! I can feel the endorphins spread through my body after a good laugh. It’s healthy so find ways to laugh more. Watch a funny movie, read a funny book or watch funny videos. And hang out with people who make you laugh!
When I got hacked I lost my entire blog so this is a repost (modified) from April 2015.
I will admit it. I’m a weanie when it comes to swimming in big waves at the ocean so I don’t go in very deep when I see waves crashing. I’ve never been a strong swimmer. You might say I dabble in swimming. I have snorkeled a couple times and enjoyed it but I don’t have a deep desire to do it again.
Since I’m not a mermaid, I decided at least I could paint one.
“She Carried the Light”, acrylic on paper, 9″ x 9″
So here she is carrying the light through the depths of the deep blue sea.
Inspired by the beautiful orange hibiscus flowers in our yard, I decided to repaint the mural located on the street in front of our place in Todos Santos. The mural is on what we call the old pila (water tank) that we turned into a planter a few years ago. It had a fish mural scene that I had painted but it had faded badly and looked dated. So it needed a fresh face.
First I made a sketch of a hibiscus flower design.
Then I put it into Photoshop layered over a photo of the pila to play with the design. I tried out different colors. This is what it looked like for my inspiration.
Next I freehand sketched it on to the pila and outlined it in dark brown. Then I started to put the colors on.
I continued painting and filling in my sketch with colors of paint I had on hand. Once the final coats of acrylic paint were on, I outlined it in a dark brown.
Hope you enjoyed seeing the process of my hibiscus mural.
I am re-posting some of my old blog posts since my blog was hacked and I lost everything.
One of the things that lights me up is making things. That is probably obvious since I’m an artist. But I really like making art and putting them on products to send out into the world! Spreading the love you might say. So I sell prints of my work on Etsy and I have a Zazzle shop for home decor.
With the same thought in mind, I applied for a Merch account on Amazon and now I have Amazon Tshirts for sale! That means I can now sell T-shirts on Amazon. Amazon Merch is a tier system. So I started with 10 designs and once I sold 10 T-shirts, they bumped me to 25. After selling 25 T-shirts, they bump me to 50 and now I am at 100.
It is inspired by all those people working hard to follow their dreams! Like me and many of my friends and family! What about you? Are you following your dreams? If so, be happy and keep on keeping on!
Next up is my Yoga Girls T-Shirt. A favorite as I love yoga and I love the saying “We Are One” plus I love flower power floral designs! It’s a great combination.
Many years ago I read the book The Artist’s Way by Julie Cameron and there was an exercise in it where you write an encouraging letter to your inner artist (Task 8 in week 11). I just found mine the other day in a box. Here it is, although I did modify it slightly.
Dear Inner Artist,
Do not be afraid.
Let yourself go and flow.
You can be all that you want to be.
You can make art, sell it and support yourself and your family with art sales.
You can make enough $ to be able to afford the things that you want to own and travel the world.
People will buy the art that you make. You will be successful with your art and it’s sales.
You are a natural leader, a healer and a teacher and people learn from you.
Flow with the the natural rhythms of life that are here to guide and help support you.
You are a great artist!
You tap into your higher power and channel the creativity from the Source.
You have control over the life you lead by taking the choices presented to you and acting on them. You know that all that is, is not what it appears.
If you want to be a painter, than do it. If you want to be a creator, than do it. You have the resources and the talent.
Take your motivation and go with it.
You know what to do and if you don’t there are resources to help you learn.
Do not let anyone talk you out of it or tell you that you are not good enough because you are good enough and not “just” good enough but great!
You are unique and have something to share.
You uplift the spirit with your art. Your art is a celebration!
You are so, so, so loved! – From Me
“Expect the universe to support your dream and it will.” – Julia Cameron
Now it’s your turn. What does your inner artist need to hear?
As a child, I grew up with my bedroom window right next to a fragrant, white blossomed shrub whose scent would waft into my room. It was a fragrant, intoxicating floral aroma. It was a dreamy perfume. One that I would breathe in deeply as I lay on my bed on a warm summer afternoon as I drifted into an afternoon nap.
Just thinking about it makes me relax.
We all need a nap from time to time. It’s especially important for introverts who gather their energy from being by themselves. I’m an introvert and I just love a good nap!
We’re in Todos Santos, Baja, Mx right now. We have a hammock and it is the perfect napping place.
It is the resting of the spirit, the going inward that allows me to come back to the outer world refreshed and ready to create. A nap is like a creative incubation for the soul. It restores me upon awakening and then I can get back into the studio and start creating!
My art studio in our casa.
Some people love naps and some people don’t. What about you? Are you a nap person?
Try this little trick if you need a little cheering up. Grab a piece of paper and start listing all the things your heart loves! It will help you be grateful for all the beautiful things in this world.
Here’s my list for today (in no particular order).
Ancient tapestries
Petroglyphs
Lavender oil
A moon sliver
Making original art
Sand Dollars
The smell of a puppy
Daisy chains
Vivid color
Skipping stones on the water
Hiking a trail
Outdoor showers
Spiral shapes
Border collies
Hanging art mobiles
Smell of cookies baking
gnomes
Foot massages
Geodesic domes
Watching ocean waves crash
Watching a sunset
Licking an ice cream cone
Warm wool mittens
Lighting incense
Bangles and dangle earrings
Boots from Australia
Frothy, hot mocha
Game of billiards
Beatrix Potter drawings
Ravens
Watching a sloth move
Laughing until tears run down my face
Solar lanterns
Picking blackberries or blueberries
Camp fires
Watching horses play
Tall palm trees
Laying on a rock in the sun
Bubble baths
Peanut butter chocolate fudge milkshake
Twilight
Handmade sandals
Hanging out with family / friends
Peace signs
The golden hour with long shadows
Smell of fresh cut grass
Delta blues music
Double rainbows
Maps
Handwritten letters
Finger painting
Swimming in the Sea of Cortez
A monsoon down pour of rain
Scented candles
Walking a labyrinth
Watching an inspiring movie
Listening to Christmas carols
Kayaking a flat lake
Star gazing
Remembering a dream
Listening to good ole rock ‘n roll
Yoga outside in the a.m.
Travel to new areas
Visiting an art gallery
Mountain bike riding
Painted toe nails
Mosaic stepping stones
Reading the book The Power of Flow
Writing a poem
Trying new foods
Eating organic
Growing our own food
Van Morrison music
Camping on the beach
Green smoothies
Reading my horoscope
Birthday week celebrations
Hosting visitors
White puffy clouds and blue, blue sky
Flying a kite
Hot springs
Reading Rumi
Taking dogs for a walk
A nap in the afternoon
Sitting around the fire in a Teepee
Dream catcher
Learning, remembering and using a new spanish word
