Grateful for being an artist

 

I painted this map over a year ago for a fabric collection. Earlier this month I pulled it back out and added a few more characters to it. I thought with all those buildings it needed a better sense of community.

Community-is what I associate with this time of the year. Gathering with friends and family in hopes of not only leaving with a full belly but also a full heart. (which in my opinion, feels even better)

I find my peace through making art. I like to gather inspiration from all around me. Easy to access everyday things can spark an idea. The other day I heard the Rolling Stones, Wild Horses. With this time of year, it got me thinking about wild turkeys. (which roam my parent's neighborhood) This piece came from that thought.

 

Wild turkeys, couldn't drag me away.

Wild, wild horses, may you find them one day.

 

Being an artist is fun yet taxing, you need to keep your eyes, ears, and heart open! 

Hope you're feeling open to all the wonder, community and beauty that comes with this time of the year. 

 

Fall field of flowers.

 

I wish I had this pattern on napkins for my Thanksgiving table!

Just a splash of color is all you need on a table towering with food. 

Original art at Artfully Walls

Gift giving season is here! I have two one-of-a kind pieces available at Artfully Walls in their Original Art capsule. Autumnology is watercolor painted on Arches cold press paper and is a folksy homage to fall.

 Dinosaur delight is acrylic on canvas with a fluorescent orange pop. I’m pretty sure everyone loves flowers, including dinosaurs!

 Both pieces come framed.

If you're looking for something less expensive... I have a Circus Menagerie 

(which would be the cutest in a nursery)

 and I Think I Can printed on fine art paper.

Who couldn't use a boost of self belief?

 

 

Unraveling

Unfortunately, I'm a worrier. Right now I have multiple uncertain things in my life. 

I guess we all do in one way or another.

I often paint in a sketchbook at night to relax. I've found myself painting lots of things in boxes lately. 

It gives me a sense of control.  Feels safe- plus, it looks pretty! 

This is what I came up with last night. I found comfort in thinking that many of the things on my mind right now will most likely have answers or at least some insight with just a little time.

Until then, there is tea! 

3 Good Things

 

Forgot to add LOVE, that's an important one!

💓  🔷  🟡

Dia de los Muertos

 While I'm not Mexican I live in a neighborhood with a wonderful Mexican community and over the years here I've come to appreciate and anticipate the cultural events in the fall. Mattie Rhodes community center has a big Dia de los Muertos celebration the starts late October and ends the first week of November with a night parade. Which I can't wait for.

This year they did an altar at the Crossroads Hotel K.C. which was beautiful!

 I've long been looking for way to re-frame the concept of death and I like the ritual of welcoming our loved ones back for a night of remembrance and celebration. Keeping memories alive and paying respect to those we love fills me with some relief. The gone forever concept is a lot to take. Even before I felt this way my art has wandered into the motifs, colors and symbols of life, and love.

*Marigolds are a symbol of passion and creativity! 

Perk up!

 

Drink it, draw it there's, something about coffee I never tire of.  ☕