Ludid Ryu

Appreciation & Giveaway

2012-01-29T20:53:00.010-06:00

I have so much appreciation for you who encourage and support me through your comments and e-mails.

And for sharing your creations and creative life via your blogs.

How truly wonderful it feels to be able to connect with fabulous people from all over the world.

So I have prepared this surprise giveaway to celebrate this little creative space with all of you. If you have never commented or are not a follower, and this space brings a little smile in some small way, I encourage you to become a follower.

As I mentioned, this giveaway is a surprise item so you will not know what this lovely item is until a winner is announced. Along with this surprise item will come other small surprise goodies!

Leave a comment perhaps to share what your favorite childhood memory is for a chance to win!

Make sure to include your contact info so I can find you if you win.

A random winner will be selected Tuesday night at 8:00 PM U.S. Central time and I will

announce the winner on Wednesday morning. To find out what time it is in your area click here.

-------------------------------
Thank you everyone. Comments are closed.
Winner will be announced tomorrow morning.

sneak peek

2012-01-27T07:25:00.005-06:00

new painting sneak peek.

the other painting mentioned in my

last post is in time out.

loving this one.

enjoying the calm approach

to the creative process.

carving my own stamp.

beginning to work on the details.

working on a little giveaway for this weekend.

happy friday.

morning meal

2012-01-26T09:30:00.004-06:00

Stages

2012-01-23T11:20:00.001-06:00

i started setting a timer as i work on this painting.

it is a ritual i began doing to take this painting

slowly through its stages.

painting (especially on a canvas) is not a comfortable

medium for me. frankly, it often stresses me out.

i enjoy it, so i work through the stress or anxiety.

then i wait until it expresses what it is meant to be.

just a little reminder that life of threads

wraps are available here.

days of color:explorations

2012-01-23T07:40:00.001-06:00

playing with lots of color, sketching, and faces.

once in a while, i draw and paint

a face i like. her eyes turned out quite

dreamy i think.

a little corner of my creative space.

this year will be all or mostly about color.

stitching frames

2012-01-20T07:50:00.002-06:00

under the moon

taking some moments these weekend to enjoy the

outdoors to do this and this.

hope you enjoy those videos as much as i did.

splendid and truly inspiring.

happy weekend.

intentions

2012-01-17T11:48:00.002-06:00

“God help us to live slowly:

To move simply:

To look softly:

To allow emptiness:

To let the heart create for us.

Amen.”

― Michael Leunig

ignite the light

2012-01-16T09:40:00.002-06:00

a wish written so high.

it wants to burst.

ignite the light.

DIY Stationery and Video

2012-01-13T15:00:00.005-06:00

Canson Watercolor Paper; Koi Watercolors & Brush; Sewing Machine; Thread

my sister-in-law is wonderful at sending

thank you cards. i created some simple

stationery cards so she can add her

own words and phrases.

i had some envelopes

already so i just cut the paper to fit the envelopes.

enjoy and thank you for watching.

Better

2012-01-12T20:13:00.000-06:00

thank you for your get well messages.

it has been a rough recovery, but i am

happy to say that i will be

blogging soon.

i'll be sharing peeks of what i hope

will be a colorful 2012, a video, and a

giveaway.

Healing

2012-01-06T20:05:00.002-06:00

By the time you read this, I will be recovering from surgery.

I am alright.

Healing.

Everything else will have to wait.

Wishing you a restful weekend.

embracing 2012

2012-01-04T07:40:00.008-06:00

grateful and excited to enter 2012 with this article found here.

slowly and gently welcoming 2012 with a new focus

with a blank canvas to welcome magic and wonder.

a year of self-care and mindfulness.

wishing you a wonderful year.

my dad's place

2011-12-22T08:32:00.008-06:00

photo by my dad

wintry scene from

somewhere in the Texas panhandle

(last month)

Homemade Granola Gift Giving

2011-12-17T09:25:00.001-06:00

i thought the previous post was the last one

for 2011, but i had to share this little gift

i made for my son's teachers.

i made some granola at home using this recipe.

added my personal touch with these diy tags.

used sticky back canvas and stamped letters

including the date it was made.

stamped the sides using

these beautiful stamps.

of course, i had to try it with a little bit of yogurt.

happy creating. happy holidays.

it's time:cardboard christmas cards

2011-12-15T14:08:00.003-06:00

few more things to finish up along with these

christmas cards. i made these for a party tomorrow

and some friends.

made with cardboard and washi tape.

(note: i found the stamps i used at a thrift store and do not

show where they are from)

now it's time to

enjoy all that this holiday season brings.

best wishes for you and your families.

--ludid

Glitter and figurine

2011-12-10T21:02:00.000-06:00

a little bit of saturday sparkle and sweetness.

(with halftone phone app frame)

a bit of cozy and a bit of clean

2011-12-06T11:15:00.001-06:00

cozy at home.

making so much progress in my creative space.

While i was cleaning...

2011-12-03T08:55:00.000-06:00

while i am cleaning my art space, i am taking little breaks to work in an altered book. today, will be mostly about cleaning and spending time with family. hoping to watch this movie. a favorite of mine to watch during the holidays. happy weekend.

DIY Threads Christmas Ornament

2011-12-02T06:55:00.005-06:00

here is a simple video tutorial for making a christmas ornament with threads.
if there is a problem with the video here, watch it here.

8 points

2011-11-29T07:38:00.004-06:00

it seems weird to be doing this at this time of the year,

but i am going back to the drawing board to

create an art space that is comfortable and cozy.

more importantly, get rid of some clutter.

sounds more like spring cleaning i know, but

i feel i need to do this now before i can focus

on more creating and the holidays.

weekend love

2011-11-26T09:19:00.000-06:00

more journal making with a favorite supply-colorful waxed thread.

weekend reading. loving both.

~~a few of~~ my favorite pages.

yummy decorate tape.

getting ready for an evening of ballet-the nutcracker.

enjoy your weekend and don't forget

free shipping over at my shop until monday.

Free Shipping Cyber Monday

2011-11-24T17:15:00.000-06:00

visit my my shop during these dates to receive free shipping.

at this time, free shipping for United States orders only.

thank you. happy shopping.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T07:34:00.006-06:00

my best wishes for a happy thanksgiving.

update: check out the Winter 2012 issue of Somerset Studio Gallery

to see some of my life of threads collages.

making a journal-the process

2011-11-20T21:27:00.001-06:00

the completed journal will be loved and cherished.

he will fill it with stories and memories.

and i enjoyed making it for him with all

my heart.

at home

2011-11-18T09:27:00.004-06:00

with thanksgiving right around the corner,

i am enjoying getting my home

ready for the holidays,

making gifts for family and friends,

and preparing a simple ornament tutorial
for next week.

wishing you all the best.

these days

2011-11-10T09:06:00.000-06:00

desk view and more

2011-11-05T22:42:00.001-05:00

a view of my desk today.

i also picked up the painting my son and i painted in september from

the framing store. professionally framed and it looks beautiful.

i will take a picture once it is up on the wall.

thank you Bid Kids Magazine for sharing the link

to the painting collaboration video on your facebook page today.

enjoy the rest of the weekend.

sketches

2011-11-03T09:14:00.005-05:00

i am focusing more on slowing down as i create.

these sketches are allowing me space to rest.

sketching like this is also keeping my heart warm.

i hope you are finding creativity that keeps your heart warm too.

happy thursday to you.

hello november

2011-11-02T00:00:00.003-05:00

saying goodbye to october with this in my mind.

simplicity.

slowing down a bit.

my body and spirit need some care.

Phone Apps

2011-10-29T20:00:00.002-05:00

Original artwork + Camera Effects App + Magic (gives it a round border)

+ Photo Effects App + Tilt shift

Camera phone + BeFunky App + Viewfinder + Photo Effects App + Gritty HDR

Great reason to play with my android.

Keeping the threads.........

2011-10-28T14:12:00.000-05:00

happy weekend.

Life of Threads Necklaces

2011-10-26T23:09:00.003-05:00

as i give these threads a second chance, i see things flowering in unexpected ways.

a tiny square caught my eye. as i held it in my hand, threads and other pieces

began to bloom into necklaces.

three are now available in my shop.

Where trust thrives

2011-10-26T11:02:00.006-05:00

it is so difficult to find that solid ground where trust thrives. i am unwrapping the ideas that have been perculating and practicing leaning into them with trust. i hope that in all that the online world offers (good and not so good) you are finding that safe place where you want to be. i am focusing on exploring that type of landscape as i try to fulfill my calling and try new things.

random stamping:fresh beat

2011-10-21T08:21:00.002-05:00

always good to keep some pages from an

old math book nearby for random stamping.

something you should know about me:

i am a bit goofy. i can sing and dance to

this fresh beat band song like a true fan.

love them.

enjoy the weekend.

-ing

2011-10-19T20:23:00.003-05:00

cleaning:rearranging:organizing

gathering:stitching:folding

welcoming:permitting:considering

enjoying:finishing

New life of threads item in the shop

2011-10-17T18:45:00.010-05:00

i've been spending much time outdoors finding little

treasures to bring indoors. placing sticks and twigs in vases and

in these life of threads holders.

this is a new item just added in my shop. it was difficult

to name because they could be used as napkin rings or pencil holders.

make a bouquet of flowers and place them in the holders. i like

that there are so many possibilities.

enjoying making these as well.

All threads

2011-10-17T08:30:00.000-05:00

today's collage: all threads

i am gently being pulled into a quiet place.

soon, but not now.

the threads are calling.

here is to a brand new week.

Grown up dream

2011-10-15T14:02:00.004-05:00

my son recently asked his uncle (my brother).... what do you

want to be when you grow up?

i told my son for next time to ask him----

what is your grown up dream?

and boy, does that open up a world of excitement and possibilites.

the best gift i can give to my son is to guide him as he finds

his purpose and passion.

Making piñatas & video

2011-10-13T14:30:00.004-05:00

making piñatas was always a fun activity to do as a family. i remember the
balloons,all the sticky glue, strips of newspaper, paper mache, and all the hours spent.
of course, there is the pleasure of hitting it to receive various yummy treats.

i see now more than ever, that it is the process that is the most memorable and valuable.

here's a quick video where i finish up the making piñatas
journal page for my about childhood series.

Cindy Lantier-About Childhood

2011-10-12T05:00:00.003-05:00

photo by Cindy Lantier

http://lantier.org/

http://www.mgfpodcast.com/

1. Do you still have a piece of artwork you created when you were a child? Describe or explain. If not, is there a specific memory that you recall about a piece of artwork, art or creativity in your childhood

I’m sure I did all kinds of arts and crafts as a child, if only in school. But the first piece I specifically remember creating was in third grade. It was a simple wall hanging made with a separated napkin, Mod Podge, and Diamond Dust. My mother hung it in the guest room and it stayed there for years. In fact, when my mother made her transition last summer, it was still there! Because I lived so far away from my mother’s house, I only had one opportunity to take my things from the house, and I completely forgot about this wall hanging. Suddenly, I’m wishing I had it.

Art or creativity in my childhood is a complicated issue. I loved to color and draw as a child – most kids do. I’m told that I drew on the walls, and I know I colored on a painting that hung behind the couch when I was growing up. I don’t remember being punished for any of this! As long as I chose “appropriate” forms of expression, my creativity was supported and encouraged, but when I reached outside the box I’d been put into, my hands were slapped. I have an older brother who, at one time, could draw anything. He didn’t just copy what he saw; he could draw a doe that was almost jumping of the page without having anything to look at in front of him. He received special attention for his talents, including private art lessons (we didn’t have a lot of money, so this was MAJOR support from our parents). The encouragement he received acted as DIScouragement to me. I assumed that I wasn’t artistic. I remember being supported in the domestic arts – knitting, embroidery, counted cross stitch, candle wicking, bead work, cooking – but not the painterly arts. That was clearly my brother’s domain. By the time I was in seventh grade, I was actually afraid of art and I avoided it at all costs! I thought I had no talent, no vision. It was an odd tension to live with, to be encouraged to be creative but afraid of art.

2. What does it (artwork/memory) mean to you now?

The glittery napkin art I created in third grade reminds me that I was creative at an early age. My mother’s proud display of that piece also reminds me of her love and support, even if I didn’t recognize it as encouragement at the time.

The memory of creativity in my childhood is sometimes painful, but often amusing, depending on my mood. If I’m feeling melancholy to begin with, I can ride the wave of sadness and unfairness. But mostly, I look at the contrast between the memories of art in my childhood and the reality of my adulthood as a testament to the creative spirit that lives inside us all. Creativity and artistic demonstrations were destined to be a part of my life and years of discouragement couldn’t prevent it from shining through.

3. Will you be willing to share a photo of the artwork you did as a child or share artwork/photo inspired by that memory?

As I mentioned, I don’t have that special piece of artwork that I created as a child; I wish I did. Inspiration is one of my early pieces and I still love it. To me, it’s a Muse carrying my creativity back to me after all those years of ignoring it. This isone of the pieces that is most responded when people see my work up close. I think that’s because of the emotional reaction I had during the creation process.

----------------------------------

thank you for sharing your story.

nice to have met you in flying lessons.

Life of Threads Wraps 2

2011-10-11T13:55:00.004-05:00

each thread is a symbol of second chances

and new opportunities.

order your life of threads wraps here.

Stamps and balls

2011-10-10T06:20:00.002-05:00

handmade woodcuts i made for my visual journaling childhood series.

handmade doorknob eraser stamps.

fabric balls.

Life of threads wraps

2011-10-07T07:00:00.012-05:00

i started experimenting with my life of threads wraps as wall art.

there are also many cans, jars, even books in my art studio that are
dressed in these wraps. you can also see what the wonderful Becky Shander
created with some of my life of threads wraps.

wraps are available in my shop now.
the possibilities are endless.

Tidbits

2011-10-03T10:12:00.008-05:00

here are some pics of things that have been or are on

my desk at the moment. see some of the items here.

i am also looking forward to participatingin my first

craft fair this november.

over the weekend, i followed this recipe and made this

basil smoothie. truly refreshing. i made the syrup

with less sugar that the recipe calls for and it was still simply

delicious.

the painting collaboration i posted last week was featured

in Crescendoh yesterday. such a treat and so honored.

thank you.

check it out here.

Announcing my 209happy Etsy shop

2011-10-01T09:40:00.001-05:00

I am excited to announce the reopening of my etsy shop with a new name. This last month and half has been all about making some lovely items for the home, handmade notebooks, and some prints. The name of my shop is now called 209happy which represents my love for family and home.

My goal is to add new items in the shop more often. I hope you stop by and perhaps

find something for yourself or a loved one.

Perhaps you have noticed that my blog address has changed. It is now http://www.ludidryu.com/. Although I have retired by turn up the sound name, it will always have a special place in my heart. I believe it will still redirect you to my new address, but I hope you will update the blog site address

to keep following my creative journey.

See you here.

:racing towards the finish line:

2011-09-29T12:00:00.004-05:00

my projects are finished.

what a joyful experience.

working on taking pictures and

writing descriptions.

i am not really racing to get there, but

eager to share my little creations.

i am also playing around with

my secret garden trees.

More studio happenings

2011-09-26T12:00:00.012-05:00

no beauty shots of my space.

it is in a very messy stage,

but i am okay with that

for now.

Studio happenings

2011-09-26T06:44:00.002-05:00

walking/jogging before sunrise offers so many opportunities

for reflection. i like that i can take that time to consider

all the ideas and new perspectives that emerge while

i greet a new day.

have a great monday.

--Words--

2011-09-22T11:00:00.001-05:00

surrendering to the rhythm...

pushing my horizons.....

feeling the glow.

Stack

2011-09-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

a stack.

it stands for productivity and accomplishment.

participating today in this online collaborative project.

weekend painting collaboration (and video)

2011-09-19T05:20:00.001-05:00

i love art. he loves art.

my four-year-old son and i collaborated on a painting.

here is a little video of the process.

enjoy.

thank you for watching.

playfulness continues

2011-09-18T01:30:00.020-05:00

paper and fabric collage

leftover fabric and paper scraps contribute to
my playfulness in making these little collages.
see previous ones here and here.

great way to take a playful break from other projects.

Little changes

2011-09-15T06:51:00.013-05:00

making the creative process the focus.
simple.
complex.

anxious to begin a pre-dawn ritual to
revitalize my day.
that's my favorite part of the day.

then continue with some moments
in the studio.

making little changes in my routine and
adding a big rosy bow to everything i do
will surely make a difference.

Jamie Ridler-About Childhood

2011-09-14T05:42:00.001-05:00

Photo by Jamie Ridler

When I was a girl, my mom signed me up for a theatre class. Though theatre was to become a major part of my life, this course didn’t make much of an impression. From that entire time I barely remember a detail – except one moment, a moment that changed my life and shaped my aesthetic.

In addition to presenting our dramatic rendition of Rip van Winkle, some kids performed a movement piece. Each of us had a chair. The stage was in darkness. The music played. You were to be absolutely still until the spotlight hit. In that moment, you danced your dance. Whatever was in your heart, you danced it. In that moment, I felt my soul awaken. It lasted 7 seconds. It lasted my whole life.

Nothing was ever the same.

2. What does it (artwork/memory) mean to you now?

Dance has been one of the most important companions of my life. She has brought me home again and again and again. As a girl who grew into a short, curvy woman, I wasn’t sure what place dance could have in my life; it wasn’t going to take me into the commercial realm. For a while, I forgot dance was there at all. But now, as a creative living coach who helps women awaken their own creative spirit, dance is one of my most powerful allies and once again, an important part of my life.

3. Will you be willing to share a photo of the artwork you did as a child or share artwork/photo/video inspired by that memory?

Jamie Ridler is a creative living coach and the founder of Jamie Ridler Studios. From coaching to workshops, from podcasting to blogging, Jamie’s work helps women find the confidence and courage to discover and express their creative selves so they can be the star they are.Website: Jamie Ridler Studios http://www.openthedoor.ca/Twitter: @starshyne www.twitter.com/starshyneFacebook: www.facebook.com/jamieridlerstudiosPodcast: http://www.creativelivingwithjamie.ca/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jamie, thank you for gifting us with your story and dance.

Lost in threads and codes

2011-09-12T06:50:00.018-05:00

both pictures taken using the retrocamera app.

after listening to this podcast, i decided to add the qr

codes to my very own cloth labels for the creations in progress.

so excited and working hard on this collection.

On my nightstand

2011-09-10T09:52:00.001-05:00

used retrocamera app

Action

2011-09-09T12:15:00.002-05:00

the "someday" project turned into an action plan.

i had to write down my goal. then wrote

down step by step of what needed to be done.

i am marking each step completed as i move forward

on this collection which is full of heart.

learning so much in the process.

also enjoying the outdoors more since

the temperature has down a bit.

Stay tuned next week for another inspirational

artist interview from an artist who sparkles.

Not a bird

2011-09-07T06:59:00.004-05:00

collage on paper

it's a duck-horse according to my son.

just play.

Grand plié

2011-09-06T09:33:00.002-05:00

a few experimental designs.

i just call them the ballerinas.

Simply Red

2011-09-05T12:18:00.005-05:00

a little glimpse.

something brewing over here.

while listening to this.

happy monday.

Unimaginable

2011-09-01T14:54:00.001-05:00

"Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable."

—Mary Oliver

Like a gentle bird

2011-08-31T22:37:00.005-05:00

taking pictures of my art while holding it in my hand

made me think about how we should be more gentle with ourselves,

our relationship,s and our art.

like holding a little

bird in the palm of our hands.

Full of color

2011-08-29T15:05:00.002-05:00

another painting i finished. this pink is very uncharacteristic of

my choice in color. i have to admit that it brought a

huge smile to my face.

i am mainly working small, but i plan to start working

on larger wood panels or canvas soon.

Business crafty-DIY

2011-08-27T12:50:00.006-05:00

an event today might give me the opportunity to share my

business card.

so i got to work and carved my own stamp.

stamped my name with this stamp kit.

this old, but super sharp papercutter that my dad gave

me was just what i needed.

i typed my contact information on sticker paper,

cut strips to card size....

and

attached it to the back.

all set.

my creativity is nourished for today.

feels good.

how did you nourish your creativity today?

Untitled

2011-08-26T12:28:00.000-05:00

still experimenting.

trying to get all these ideas

out of head.

Alison Lee-About Childhood

2011-08-24T09:42:00.001-05:00

photo by Alison Lee
www.craftcast.com

1. Do you still have a piece of artwork you created when you were a child? If not, is there a specific memory that you recall about a piece of artwork, art or creativity in your childhood?

This is the first craft I made when I was 4 and a half. It's a purse I made for my mother for mother’s day. I knew that making “something” was what made me feel good. I can still remember how I thought this was a substantial purse and that adding the handle was brilliant spark of creativity. And then of course an embellishment of a flower for a touch of style.

2. What does it (artwork/memory) mean to you now?

I remember how good it made me feel. Plus the concept of learning something from watching tv made it’s first impression.

---------------------------------------------------

Alison, thank you so much.

Something new

2011-08-23T15:01:00.002-05:00

a new collage piece i am experimenting with.

Riding the yellow school bus

2011-08-22T06:45:00.003-05:00

school begins today in my neck of the woods. my son starts his first day of pre-k.

a new school year also reminds me of my experience of moving to a new country as a child.

when i moved to the U.S.A with my family about 30 years ago, we were excited

about many things. one being that my siblings and i would be attending school

and learning a new language. we were even more excited about riding

a yellow bus to school. we were thrilled about the whole concept.

there were times when we almost missed the bus (we did one or two times)

and i remember my mom running behind it trying to get the bus driver to stop.

although there were times when we wished we didn't have to ride the bus,

the memories i have of the yellow school bus are pleasant.

this visual journaling childhood series is a long term journaling project

for me. it continues to be so enjoyable to remember this time of my life.

i continue to carve wood to make a permanet mark of that memory.

you can follow my visual journaling childhood series here.

check out the artist interviews about childhood here with more

wonderful stories coming later on in september.

if you would like to take a button about this series, check it out on the sidebar.

have a great monday.

Tea time

2011-08-18T21:23:00.001-05:00

i just found some childhood friends on facebook. the memories

i have of them are so precious for me. so excited to reconnect with them.

i wish we could have some time for tea and remember our childhood

experiences and catch up.

if there are any childhood friends that you want to find,

try looking for them. it is so good for the soul.

these last several hours have been so good my soul.

Julie Prichard-About Childhood

2011-08-17T06:45:00.009-05:00

1. Do you still have a piece of artwork you created when you were a child? If not, is there a specific memory that you recall about a piece of artwork, art or creativity in your childhood?

Memories of Growing up with an Artist Mom:
In 1976 I was 5 years old. My mother stayed at home with my brother and I. She was an artist.

Spending hours over her drawing table as we played outside, we were not permitted to disturb her concentration. She labored over the most intricate pencil drawings I have ever seen-to date. She reproduced National Geographic images with impeccable accuracy. She made drawing look easy.

Turpentine for her oils, tubes of paint, the rubber eraser that was like play-dough, the Prismacolor blue 2B pencils...her wooden drawing table. Those are my most treasured memories of art as a child. I saw the neighbors and my relatives look at the paintings and share their delight.

all photos by Julie Prichard

http://www.julieprichard.com/

In the 70's we wandered through art supply stores. Most notably, Aaron Brothers. Aaron Brothers in the 70's was the size of a current day Best Buy. It was a super-warehouse of art. Frames, easels, the pads of huge paper...the clay! I remember one of my favorite aisles was the ceramics section. Huge rolls of real clay...I dreamed of owning a pottery wheel. While my mother shopped for the perfect wood and matt for custom framing, we wandered. I studied my wallet and collected pens and pastels a la cart that I could afford. If we were "good" while she was in the store, we left with small art treats. It seemed like we were in Aaron Brothers every week.

My father instilled in us the knowledge of how to fix and repair things for ourselves. I can't say that I ever remember having a repairman over to the house to fix anything in those days.. We stayed home a lot (still do) and learned how to entertain ourselves. I attribute these factors to my creativity today.

I was encouraged to be creative by being given a small Vivitar 110 film camera. My father would develop the film at Fedco for me. I would study the pictures and could not wait for him to bring the photo envelopes home. The processing seemed like it took forever in those days (I think it actually did). When I was frustrated that I could not draw like my mother, I picked up some film and went to take pictures of the neighborhood kids. My love for photography has not stopped since then.

2. What does it (artwork/memory) mean to you now?
Every time I enter any art supply store, I am taken back to those days as a child. Everything is familiar.

My mom is private and has never shown her art. But I love her for exposing me to art. I love her for having it in our home. And my dad....thank you for building the confidence to take things apart.

-------------------------------------------------

Julie, thank you so much.
read more about Artist Interviews: About Childhood here.

the orange one

2011-08-15T12:00:00.010-05:00

the orange constellation.

several months ago i found a great vintage book

with fabulous paper.

i am using the paper for some of

my new constellation collages.

stitching on the back of the collage.

Connect the dots

2011-08-14T17:05:00.013-05:00

making my own constellations.

Visual note

2011-08-11T09:38:00.000-05:00

i want to:

take a hot bath

get a massage

take off my shoes and play in a puddle

learn how to dance a few ballroom dances

Lori Vliegen-About Childhood

2011-08-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

photo by Lori

Lori's blog: http://www.elviestudio.blogspot.com/

Lori's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ElvieStudio

1. Do you still have a piece of artwork you created as a child? Describe or explain. If not, is there a specific memory that you recall about a piece of artwork, art or creativity in your childhood?

as i was growing up, my father was a pilot in the air force, so we moved around a lot. we were always limited on how much we could fill the moving truck with, so my mom really wasn't able to save things for us. unfortunately, i don't have a piece of artwork that i created as a child, but i do have fond memories of coloring in my color books (always staying within the lines.....), and there was a particular piece of art that i made when i was about nine years old that i remember. it was a wood-block carving of a mouse sitting underneath a polka-dotted mushroom. part of the reason i remember it so well is because i cut my thumb really badly using the carving tool! but the main reason i remember it is because it won a contest at school, so it was on display in the library window for an entire week.

2. What does it (artwork/memory) mean to you now?

one of my biggest memories about having my wood-block print on display in the library is that every time i walked past and saw it, i felt like an artist. i had almost forgotten that there were moments during my childhood that i really felt this way.....i grew up excelling in logical subjects like math, and i had decided that i wanted to be a teacher when i grew up. i don't remember anyone ever calling me an "artist" when i was young.....but i know i felt like one at times. it's interesting what we can learn from our own inner-child!

3. Will you be willing to share a photo of the artwork you did as a child or share artwork/photo inspired by that memory?

i've tried to re-create my little "mouse under the mushroom" artwork as best as i can remember it. however, instead of carving it from wood, i've used a piece of speedball speedy-carve (and this time i kept my thumbs out of the way!). i've also left a lot of the "imperfections" in the carving, because i remember it that way. thank you, ludid, for inviting me to share these memories.....i've really enjoyed it!

-----------------

Thank you so much for sharing your story Lori.

Whimsies

2011-08-09T07:13:00.001-05:00

i have found that i most enjoy carving my

own stamps on this type of linoleum.

a few whimsical designs. any preference?

coffee

tea

vino (wine).

see up close here.

please stop by on wednesday for the first artist interview in the

series about childhood. it is sure to be a treat.

i can always count on the passion of this artist for carving stamps, journaling,

and sharing joyful artwork and messages.

if you would like, grab a button for this series,

it is posted on the sidebar.

New artwork

2011-08-08T06:00:00.004-05:00

exploring horizons, nature, and civilization.

see more here.

Fine things

2011-08-05T06:36:00.009-05:00

yesterday while making prints of some new work, i

met an employee of the print shop who said something

that is true about being an artist. he said "being an artist

must be a grand experience."

i hope you will visit my new portfolio here which

features new work. my etsy shop will be updated soon

with some prints as well.

a new project that fills me with so much joy will begin

in the next weeks.

being an artist is simply one of many fine things.

Making paper boats

2011-08-03T13:00:00.007-05:00

handmade woodcut stamp

my siblings and i spent time outdoors

all day and everyday growing up.

one outdoor pleasure was making paper

(and wooden) boats.

we used to make wooden boats with

my dad. this is what i remember and cherish the most.

we would float them on puddles, ponds, and lakes.

the paper boats eventually sank or dissolved. yet, it gave

us the opportunity to make more and more.

that's what makes this childhood activity exciting.

ever since i started journaling about my childhood,

i think about how much i miss living close to my siblings.

luckily, we have a big reunion coming up later this month.

maybe, we can make some paper boats and float down a creek

or make one or two wooden boats with my dad.

Builders

2011-07-30T16:39:00.000-05:00

"On a summer morning

I sat down

on a hillside

to think about God -

a worthy pastime.

Near me, I saw

a single cricket;

it was moving the grains of the hillside

this way and that way.

How great was its energy,

how humble its effort.

Let us hope

it will always be like this,

each of us going on

in our inexplicable ways

building the universe."

-Mary Oliver

Song of the Builders

Swap goodness.....greatness

2011-07-28T20:00:00.003-05:00

last month, i participated in my first swap. i received this lovely package

today from Rike.

so gorgeous. i can't wait to try them.

find more of her amazing stamps here.

some sweets from Germany.

my son already claimed the blue one.

thank you, Rike.

Out of this world

2011-07-25T19:16:00.000-05:00

Number 4 from Planet Fil

collage on paper

a few scraps and an out of this world imagination.

because sometimes we just need to play.

They just do

2011-07-21T12:52:00.003-05:00

what good is it to leave what we desire most unfulfilled?

and so, the ~~dreams~~ goals i have need to be fulfilled.

they just do.

doubt and all

fear and all

JOY and all.

Cheese

2011-07-20T23:09:00.000-05:00

Urban Cheesecraft from Etsy on Vimeo.

Enjoy this video and story.

I just purchased a DIY cheese kit here to

make some at home.

The search begins for some dairy farms in

my area to visit.

Climbing trees

2011-07-18T07:18:00.001-05:00

Visual Journaling-Childhood Stories

Climbing Trees

my siblings and i lived at a bible school campus where my

parents studied for missionary work. we played with other

missionary kids except they spoke english and we spoke spanish.

we picked up speaking english quickly.

what brought us together was the power of childhood play.

in this case, it was climbing trees.

a specific tree comes to mind when i think about all the trees

i climbed as a child. the perfect tree stood next to our house

where we all gathered to play.

it was big enough to hold all of us kids that climbed it.

it was safe and comfortable for our skill level.

once we were up and sitting in our favorite spot,

we felt like we were on top of the world.

when i spot a perfect climbing tree, i feel like being a kid again.

i like to think that healthy trees enjoy this childhood activity

as much as kids do.

What works

2011-07-16T14:37:00.000-05:00

journal making appears to be my go to project when

i need a little break from other creative pursuits.

during my trip, i found a cute little shop where i

found these gorgeous colors of wax thread.

i wish i had purchased more.

the process started by altering a book. i painted the covers with

some new work that i hope to reveal in the next month or so.

not sure how i will use the

journal, but the process is what works for me.

Back from vacation

2011-07-14T20:29:00.002-05:00

i am back from a wonderful vacation. after enjoying the most amazing weather

in california, returning to 101 F heat is not fun.

several projects are on my list for the next months. Many

include trying to take action on some dreams. Focusing on

painting and new work.

for now, my to do list includes lots of laundry, mail,

e-mail, and many pictures to upload.

enjoy the rest of the week.

Sunny California

2011-07-08T10:35:00.000-05:00

ready for our family vacation to sunny california.

a little bit of mickey mouse, hollywood, beaches, wine...

with this guide in hand.

while sporting my newly handmade bracelet inspired by this post.

have a great week.

New painting

2011-07-07T08:00:00.004-05:00

Untitled

mixed media on wood

As of this morning, it is finished.

Enjoying a new color palette.

A few more projects these next two days

before my summer vacation.

Those days

2011-07-04T09:50:00.000-05:00

A rare opportunity to feel so inspired and create almost

ALL day is how I would describe yesterday.

Today's agenda includes finishing up an article and perhaps

have another amazing day like yesterday.

Something lovely

2011-07-01T15:00:00.001-05:00

i received this wonderful clutch from my creative friend, Cherry.

she knows my artwork and gave me all these colorful threads.

it makes me so happy to own one of her creations.

her etsy shop is adorable . check it out here.

thank you, Cherry.

On solid ground

2011-06-29T20:34:00.001-05:00

a tree is growing...

on solid ground.

Making mud pies

2011-06-28T18:56:00.004-05:00

Making Mud Pies

it didn't matter that we got messy. what mattered

was that we had a blast getting messy.

i specfically remember a long driveway. my siblings and i would make rows

and rows of mud pies. we pretended we owned a pastry shop

and sold them for a couple of pesos.

The camera lesson

2011-06-25T16:27:00.002-05:00

acrylics, pencils, camera rub on, letter stamps

i have so many pictures when my siblings and i were kids.

it is such a joy to be able to do some artwork inspired by the pictures.

Only you.....I mean blue

2011-06-24T10:52:00.002-05:00

a page from my journal

Building forts

2011-06-21T22:11:00.034-05:00

Visual Journaling-Childhood Stories

Building Forts

My siblings and I spent most of our time outdoors growing up. After school, we went out to play with the neighborhood missionary kids. My recollection of building forts comes from our time spent in a bible school campus in south texas. A field of hills and stacks of tree branches became our little play area with hidden caves and corners.
Precious childhood moments.

Blue

2011-06-20T07:36:00.001-05:00

in my own style, i am trying to incorporate the blending techniques

i am learning in this class with Julie Prichard and Chris Cozen.

if you have never taken a class with these professional and experienced

artists, i highly recommend their classes.

i am taking the class slowly and enjoying it fully.

Art in the park

2011-06-19T18:21:00.000-05:00

he is learning about observing.

he is learning about shapes and lines.

he loves his journal.

i love that we enjoy this time together creating.

Entry ways

2011-06-16T10:40:00.002-05:00

this piece is quietly evolving.

this way.

that way.

nowhere.

somewhere.

Riding bikes

2011-06-14T09:22:00.026-05:00

Visual Journaling-Childhood Stories

Riding Bikes

Learning to ride a bike is a big deal for a child. I still remember the day like it was yesterday. I practiced for days on the courtyard of the church/parsonage we lived at the time. Going round and round. Picking myself up when i fell down until I finally did it. I was seven years old. It was even more special because it was on my dad's birthday. In my view, it was the best birthday present for my dad.

My almost 4-year-old rides a bike with training wheels. Someday he will ride a bike without them.
It will certainly be a little wonderful gift for me because I will get to see him smile, laugh, and have
fun as he enjoys this most precious play.

It's time to invest in a "grown up" bike to start riding again.

I hope you enjoy my new series of journal pages as I remember my childhood.
Hopefully, you can remember some of your childhood stories as well.

Blue trees

2011-06-13T07:24:00.001-05:00

i think i saw blue trees growing in my backyard.

perhaps it was just a dream.

a beautiful dream indeed.

gouache sketch in progress