I found this really great article on self-discipline, and thought I'd share it with you guys. >> read it here <<
I struggle with motivation and self-discipline in my life, so I am always on the lookout for reminders and tips on how to live a happy, productive life.
Having self-discipline in your life can make you go from fat to fit, poor to rich, sad to happy. It's the secret behind 'The Secret'; focusing all of your energy/time/thought into achieving a goal, and making it a reality. If you think about it, it's pretty freaking magical. You can dream something up - almost anything - and with enough determination, you can make it a real thing.
Take art for example - at an early age I had an interest in drawing, and I just... kept drawing. The skill evolved over time to become what it is now, and it's still evolving. It was easy for me to keep drawing because I loved doing it. It didn't really take self-discipline (at least in the early stages, but learning to paint with watercolours etc.. did take focused thought/time to learn).
But there's many facets to a person's life, some of which DO need self-discipline because they are not necessarily enjoyable things to do (but must get done). For example, exercise, eating healthy, doing your homework if you're in school, keeping up with all of your obligations, doing taxes, etc...
So how do force yourself to be responsible and get those things done that you need to do? That's what I have a problem with. It's a mixture of laziness and not caring, or something like that. Maybe that's depression?
But, the interesting thing I learned in this article is that self-discipline is a whole other thing. You make a set of 'rules' for yourself, and there's no ifs, ands or buts, it's an absolute. You have to do it. Your day isn't over until you - take out the garbage, scrub the bathtub, or eat a serving of vegetables. Whatever you need to do, you just do it. No sleep until it's done!
So with that said, I'm going to stop procrastinating, get dressed, and go to the thriftstore and see if there's any pretty summer skirts in my size. I will report back with photos of my findings ^_~
Are you self-disciplined? Do you need to be more disciplined in your life? What did you think of the article?
Showing posts with label personal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label personal. Show all posts
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
You have to be Bones to be Beautiful
I usually like to try to keep this journal upbeat and positive, but right now I'm fuming to the boiling point and feel like I will explode in fury.
The modeling industry is a piece of crap. A piece of fucking crap. They want emaciated women, many of which have to starve themselves and learn to cope with eating disorders and the constant pressure of staying thin and looking 'perfect'.
Sure, there are some women that look like that naturally and that's fine. I'm not saying that one body type is superior or inferior to another. What I'm saying is that this industry is promoting mental and physical illness onto many girls, even those that aren't models at all.
They love to hire 12-14 year old models who are really tall and thin (and haven't exactly blossomed into womanhood yet). These girls have no boobs and no hips, and that's the point. But, when older models want to enter the trade, at the ripe old age of seventeen or eighteen, they are expected to have a child's body type, which doesn't make sense when they aren't children anymore!!!
A girl who's close to me was told to lose two more inches on her hips. She's already underweight and still not 'perfect'. She's already got an eating disorder, so this type of criticism just adds more fuel to the fire.
Right now I just feel so much hatred for the modeling industry, and the media that warps little girls brains into thinking they have to be bones to be beautiful. You know what? You are beautiful for just being alive! You are beautiful for the good actions you take in life. You are beautiful at ANY size. I want women to be empowered and to lose the self-loathing. I want to feel empowered and lose my own self-loathing.
I don't know how to solve this problem with the media and the modeling industry, and the unrealistic expectations it has. I'm just lucky that I'm not as effected by this stuff as my dear friend is. I'm just lucky that I can see more self worth in myself than what my reflection shows in the mirror. If there was anyway I could get her and others to see that in themselves... then I think we'd have a solution.
My own contribution to a solution will be to portray women of different body types in my art. Some will be thin, or muscular, or plump. And each one of them will be beautiful. I will celebrate cellulite and tiger stripes, curves and flat planes, and show how variety truly is the spice of life.
We are people who deserve to be treated as people, not objects to be molded to the desires of others.
The modeling industry is a piece of crap. A piece of fucking crap. They want emaciated women, many of which have to starve themselves and learn to cope with eating disorders and the constant pressure of staying thin and looking 'perfect'.
Sure, there are some women that look like that naturally and that's fine. I'm not saying that one body type is superior or inferior to another. What I'm saying is that this industry is promoting mental and physical illness onto many girls, even those that aren't models at all.
They love to hire 12-14 year old models who are really tall and thin (and haven't exactly blossomed into womanhood yet). These girls have no boobs and no hips, and that's the point. But, when older models want to enter the trade, at the ripe old age of seventeen or eighteen, they are expected to have a child's body type, which doesn't make sense when they aren't children anymore!!!
A girl who's close to me was told to lose two more inches on her hips. She's already underweight and still not 'perfect'. She's already got an eating disorder, so this type of criticism just adds more fuel to the fire.
Right now I just feel so much hatred for the modeling industry, and the media that warps little girls brains into thinking they have to be bones to be beautiful. You know what? You are beautiful for just being alive! You are beautiful for the good actions you take in life. You are beautiful at ANY size. I want women to be empowered and to lose the self-loathing. I want to feel empowered and lose my own self-loathing.
I don't know how to solve this problem with the media and the modeling industry, and the unrealistic expectations it has. I'm just lucky that I'm not as effected by this stuff as my dear friend is. I'm just lucky that I can see more self worth in myself than what my reflection shows in the mirror. If there was anyway I could get her and others to see that in themselves... then I think we'd have a solution.
My own contribution to a solution will be to portray women of different body types in my art. Some will be thin, or muscular, or plump. And each one of them will be beautiful. I will celebrate cellulite and tiger stripes, curves and flat planes, and show how variety truly is the spice of life.
We are people who deserve to be treated as people, not objects to be molded to the desires of others.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Art and Depression Dammitttt
Well today is one of those shalajbksjasaBLAH posts.
I am busy and have lots to do, but I'm tired, broke, and desperately need a cup of coffee (even if just for a temporary rush). But I will settle for tea. I'm out of my favourite one (a yummy raspberry one made by lipton I think).
Anyway, I feel bleh, and I needed somewhere to say that. Even though things are looking up, I feel stagnated in my head. Like stuck in the mud (or soul sand, if you play minecraft).
I'm a little lonely too. And I want to go to Paris, today. I feel young, dumb, and immature, and yet like I'm aging too fast (I have way too many grey hairs... sad face). I just hope I make something out of this thing called life. I guess that's what we all hope for.
I want to take my camera and shoot the hell out of stuff. Go on adventures, take some chances, make some mistakes. Get a tattoo, or pierce something naughty.
Forget professionalism (at least for today).
Do you have any advice on how I can get out of this three year long funk? I'm getting tired of it, and bored out of my mind. One can only paint and make stuff so much until they go bonkers.
Here's some art I've been working on:
I hope you're all having a better day than I am. I think I'm going to make that tea now. :)
I am busy and have lots to do, but I'm tired, broke, and desperately need a cup of coffee (even if just for a temporary rush). But I will settle for tea. I'm out of my favourite one (a yummy raspberry one made by lipton I think).
Anyway, I feel bleh, and I needed somewhere to say that. Even though things are looking up, I feel stagnated in my head. Like stuck in the mud (or soul sand, if you play minecraft).
I'm a little lonely too. And I want to go to Paris, today. I feel young, dumb, and immature, and yet like I'm aging too fast (I have way too many grey hairs... sad face). I just hope I make something out of this thing called life. I guess that's what we all hope for.
I want to take my camera and shoot the hell out of stuff. Go on adventures, take some chances, make some mistakes. Get a tattoo, or pierce something naughty.
Forget professionalism (at least for today).
Do you have any advice on how I can get out of this three year long funk? I'm getting tired of it, and bored out of my mind. One can only paint and make stuff so much until they go bonkers.
Here's some art I've been working on:
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| The Swan Girl, oil on wood, for an upcoming show at Blackbird Studios in June. |
I hope you're all having a better day than I am. I think I'm going to make that tea now. :)
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Art Business - thoughts, plans, insecurities
Today feels like one of those 'what am I doing, where am I going?' days.
I feel a bit insecure about my art - am I painting what people want to see? Am I painting something that is worthy of a dollar sign? All I know is that when I put my paintings on the wall to dry, I smile when I wake up and see them. They make me feel happy, so hopefully there's some people out there that feel the same way.
My audience has grown quite a bit in the last month (now up to over 1500 fans on facebook, which feels pretty awesome if I do say so myself), but I'm not sure how to sell stuff to them. I don't want to come off pushy, or fake, or something, if that makes sense... I don't want to use some marketing trick to try and get sales. I want people to fall in love with my art, and let their hearts make the purchase... I know, it sounds cheesy, but it's how I feel.
I suppose the first step is to actually make some art available for sale. I'll have some of these originals ready very soon, so that will be a start. If they sell, I can fix my printer and then start to offer some prints, and see what happens.
I've also been meaning to look up publishing opportunities in books, magazines, and in art blogs and online zines. I also need to save to get an ipod touch so that I can join instagram and meet some new arty folks on there.
I've also been thinking of seperating my fine art and illustration business (which I've named after myself), and my Bohemian Faerie business (which is focused on wire jewelry and other items for other faes out there). So I'd have two different shops for them - for my art and prints, I'd sell it directly on my website, and for my Bohemian Faerie items, I'd sell that on etsy. I don't know though, there's a lot to think about. What do you guys think I should do?
I'll leave you with an update of my artwork in progress, and something that popped into my head just as I was dozing off last night...
"if I paint it, they will come."
I feel a bit insecure about my art - am I painting what people want to see? Am I painting something that is worthy of a dollar sign? All I know is that when I put my paintings on the wall to dry, I smile when I wake up and see them. They make me feel happy, so hopefully there's some people out there that feel the same way.
My audience has grown quite a bit in the last month (now up to over 1500 fans on facebook, which feels pretty awesome if I do say so myself), but I'm not sure how to sell stuff to them. I don't want to come off pushy, or fake, or something, if that makes sense... I don't want to use some marketing trick to try and get sales. I want people to fall in love with my art, and let their hearts make the purchase... I know, it sounds cheesy, but it's how I feel.
I suppose the first step is to actually make some art available for sale. I'll have some of these originals ready very soon, so that will be a start. If they sell, I can fix my printer and then start to offer some prints, and see what happens.
I've also been meaning to look up publishing opportunities in books, magazines, and in art blogs and online zines. I also need to save to get an ipod touch so that I can join instagram and meet some new arty folks on there.
I've also been thinking of seperating my fine art and illustration business (which I've named after myself), and my Bohemian Faerie business (which is focused on wire jewelry and other items for other faes out there). So I'd have two different shops for them - for my art and prints, I'd sell it directly on my website, and for my Bohemian Faerie items, I'd sell that on etsy. I don't know though, there's a lot to think about. What do you guys think I should do?
I'll leave you with an update of my artwork in progress, and something that popped into my head just as I was dozing off last night...
"if I paint it, they will come."
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
How Authentic Are You Online?
I would say I'm pretty much myself online. And in some ways, my truer self, online then off. I have anxiety, and when I'm with people in person, I tend to feel awkward, and not express my thoughts the way I really feel them. But online, I have time to think, time to figure things out, and a delete key - so I can express what I want, exactly how I want at the time.
There are some personal things that I don't share - like disturbing nightmares that happen all to frequently (and vivid dreams in general), depression, fears, etc... but that's probably because I like to think of this blog as my happy place. A place where I can share positivity and inspiration, and hopefully uplift others while I'm at it.
So in general, I would say that I am not the same person I am online, in person. I think here, you get to see the real me, or at least who I want to be.
So in general, I would say that I am not the same person I am online, in person. I think here, you get to see the real me, or at least who I want to be.
And then there's this picture:
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| me being a dork... as usual... and in public places. LOL |
How authentic of a blogger are you?
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Currently
What's New:
I've recently given my blog, Lacewinged.com a full on makeover!
Inspiration struck, and I just had to tear down the walls, throw some furniture around, and mix things up a little.
I even changed my blog name & identity to The Bohemian Faerie (as well as my url)
Lacewinged always felt more like a place holder name, until I found the 'right' fit for me. I wanted something that represented me and my style, as well as my love of Faerie.I hope you like the new look & feel of The Bohemian Faerie!
Reading:
I just finished reading The Clan of the Cave Bear >> it was a popular book in the 80's that was turned into a movie, starring blonde bombshell, Daryl Hannah. I'd seen the movie when I was around seven, and when I saw the book in the thriftstore over the summer, I immediately picked it up!
Over all, the book was really great. It presents a time in early human pre-history, where Ayla, a modernish human, is adopted and raised by neanderthals ("the clan"), and her struggle to try and become more like a woman of the clan, even though her very being is the opposite.
The book was about A ZILLION times better than the movie.
Watching:
Currently I'm watching The Walking Dead, Dexter, and The Vampire Diaries... all which kind of relate around death and dead things, LOL. There's some other shows I've been meaning to catch up on, like True Blood & Supernatural (and I want to start watching Game of Thrones, it sounds amazing), but it'll be a while before I make it through even the first three!
As for movies, I recently watched Resident Evil - Retribution, and yeah it sucked. Milla was great, as usual though. I'm hoping the sequel will be better.
Listening to:
I've been listening to a lot of 'new to me' Lady Gaga songs, like Americano, as well as some old Michael Jackson hits (he was SUCH an amazing dancer).
Thinking about:
The paintings I have to finish for the Grimm Art Show & NaNoWriMo.
Loving:
Making collages in polyvore, awesome friends, beautiful fall leaves, Halloween, black cats, and GLITTER!
Looking forward to:
Well Halloween is tomorrow, although I will be posting this afterward (perhaps on Friday or Saturday). I'm super stoked about my homemade/thrifted/cobbled-together Halloween costume, and can't wait to take pictures tomorrow, and wander around the neighbourhood snapping pics & admiring decorations.
Feel free to comment with your answers to the questions! I'd love to see what you're up to! :)
Questionaire snatched from Marcia
I've recently given my blog, Lacewinged.com a full on makeover!
Inspiration struck, and I just had to tear down the walls, throw some furniture around, and mix things up a little.
I even changed my blog name & identity to The Bohemian Faerie (as well as my url)
Lacewinged always felt more like a place holder name, until I found the 'right' fit for me. I wanted something that represented me and my style, as well as my love of Faerie.I hope you like the new look & feel of The Bohemian Faerie!
Reading:
I just finished reading The Clan of the Cave Bear >> it was a popular book in the 80's that was turned into a movie, starring blonde bombshell, Daryl Hannah. I'd seen the movie when I was around seven, and when I saw the book in the thriftstore over the summer, I immediately picked it up!
Over all, the book was really great. It presents a time in early human pre-history, where Ayla, a modernish human, is adopted and raised by neanderthals ("the clan"), and her struggle to try and become more like a woman of the clan, even though her very being is the opposite.
The book was about A ZILLION times better than the movie.
Watching:
Currently I'm watching The Walking Dead, Dexter, and The Vampire Diaries... all which kind of relate around death and dead things, LOL. There's some other shows I've been meaning to catch up on, like True Blood & Supernatural (and I want to start watching Game of Thrones, it sounds amazing), but it'll be a while before I make it through even the first three!
As for movies, I recently watched Resident Evil - Retribution, and yeah it sucked. Milla was great, as usual though. I'm hoping the sequel will be better.
Listening to:
I've been listening to a lot of 'new to me' Lady Gaga songs, like Americano, as well as some old Michael Jackson hits (he was SUCH an amazing dancer).
Thinking about:
The paintings I have to finish for the Grimm Art Show & NaNoWriMo.
Loving:
Making collages in polyvore, awesome friends, beautiful fall leaves, Halloween, black cats, and GLITTER!
Looking forward to:
Well Halloween is tomorrow, although I will be posting this afterward (perhaps on Friday or Saturday). I'm super stoked about my homemade/thrifted/cobbled-together Halloween costume, and can't wait to take pictures tomorrow, and wander around the neighbourhood snapping pics & admiring decorations.
Feel free to comment with your answers to the questions! I'd love to see what you're up to! :)
Questionaire snatched from Marcia
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Halloween Plans!
Halloween has always been a special day for me. >> take a look at what I did last Halloween here & here <<
Since I was a kid, I relished the magical holiday. I loved planning my costumes, collecting candy, and the general sense of mystery in the foggy, fire-crackled air, on Halloween night.
As I've gotten older, and other kids grew up, and moved on, I still held onto the magic of the spooky night. Even now, I still love to dress up, eat candy, and walk through the streets with friends on Halloween night, looking at the decorations and the little trick-or-treaters. I think, if I ever have kids, I will thoroughly enjoy taking them out for Halloween (and then the gran-kids after that)!
So for this Halloween, I have a few plans I'd like to share!
Although it's been credited above, I'd like to make sure to note that the beautiful eye shadow make up is done by Katie Alves, and you can see more of her work here.
I hope you all have a very happy Halloween! :)
Since I was a kid, I relished the magical holiday. I loved planning my costumes, collecting candy, and the general sense of mystery in the foggy, fire-crackled air, on Halloween night.
As I've gotten older, and other kids grew up, and moved on, I still held onto the magic of the spooky night. Even now, I still love to dress up, eat candy, and walk through the streets with friends on Halloween night, looking at the decorations and the little trick-or-treaters. I think, if I ever have kids, I will thoroughly enjoy taking them out for Halloween (and then the gran-kids after that)!
So for this Halloween, I have a few plans I'd like to share!
Although it's been credited above, I'd like to make sure to note that the beautiful eye shadow make up is done by Katie Alves, and you can see more of her work here.
I hope you all have a very happy Halloween! :)
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
♪ ♫ The cat came back the very next day ♬
Late last night my mom heard little mews at her bedroom window. She waited, not wanting to scare Honey away, and eventually Honey hopped right through the open window and was home!
I hadn't seen her for 11 days, and she'd been gone for four of them. She was starving, and totally pigged out on a whole can of tuna cat food. Then she wouldn't leave us alone, purring, and rubbing up against us.. and when I went to bed, she snuggled in the crook of my open arm, purring, as usual.
I can't tell you how relieved I am, and how much I missed her. She really is a big part of my life, and I love her dearly. Thanks so much for all of your kind thoughts and prayers; I'm sure they aided in her safe return. :)
Here are some pictures of the sleeping beast.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
No news yet
I spent hours looking for my lost kitty yesterday.
From 7-9 pm, and then from 12-2ish am... pretty much until my voice was hoarse from calling her name, and my legs refused to push any further.
I am so tired, and feel a sick ache in my stomach. I feel like I've lost my baby, and I don't know what to do. Today I've put in an order for fifty posters, which should be ready tomorrow. I'm going to put them inside of plastic page protectors and staple/tape them all around the neighbourhood. Literally EVERYWHERE. I'll go out again tonight and see if I can find her.
I am so worried that a coyote or racoon might have gotten her, or that she might be more than a five block radius away... I just have to hold out hope and be strong. I miss her so much, and to think that I might never get to snuggle with her again makes me want to cry.
:(
From 7-9 pm, and then from 12-2ish am... pretty much until my voice was hoarse from calling her name, and my legs refused to push any further.
I am so tired, and feel a sick ache in my stomach. I feel like I've lost my baby, and I don't know what to do. Today I've put in an order for fifty posters, which should be ready tomorrow. I'm going to put them inside of plastic page protectors and staple/tape them all around the neighbourhood. Literally EVERYWHERE. I'll go out again tonight and see if I can find her.
I am so worried that a coyote or racoon might have gotten her, or that she might be more than a five block radius away... I just have to hold out hope and be strong. I miss her so much, and to think that I might never get to snuggle with her again makes me want to cry.
:(
Monday, September 24, 2012
I'm back!
I'm back!
Kelowna was great. I had a lot of fun, and got to spend some quality time with my favourite people. I did lots of painting, got to hold a baby kangaroo, and play cod zombies with my gaming buddy. Good times!
Unfortunately, while I was gone, my cat figured out how to open the living room window, and escaped. She's been gone for three days. She only comes to me when I call her, is very skittish, and small. I am so incredibly worried about her. She's normally an indoor cat, though we have gone for walks together, so thankfully she's fully aware of where "home" is.
I called the SPCA, and they said they'd let me know if anyone brings her in asap. I put her kitty litter & food on the balcony, in the hopes that she will be able to smell her own scent from a distance. I walked around the block last night calling out to her (and instead another black cat came up to me and demanded to be pet). I'm going to go out for a walk right now and look in another direction, in case she went that way. Tomorrow I'm getting posters printed, and will put them around the neighborhood & contact my close neighbors.
My little darling means so much to me, and I feel responsible for her escape... and the danger she may be in. If only I had been here... I might have been able to prevent this from happening. :(
Anyway, I'll keep you updated on the search. Please send out good thoughts & prayers that our little fur baby finds her way back home!
x Sasha
Kelowna was great. I had a lot of fun, and got to spend some quality time with my favourite people. I did lots of painting, got to hold a baby kangaroo, and play cod zombies with my gaming buddy. Good times!
Unfortunately, while I was gone, my cat figured out how to open the living room window, and escaped. She's been gone for three days. She only comes to me when I call her, is very skittish, and small. I am so incredibly worried about her. She's normally an indoor cat, though we have gone for walks together, so thankfully she's fully aware of where "home" is.
I called the SPCA, and they said they'd let me know if anyone brings her in asap. I put her kitty litter & food on the balcony, in the hopes that she will be able to smell her own scent from a distance. I walked around the block last night calling out to her (and instead another black cat came up to me and demanded to be pet). I'm going to go out for a walk right now and look in another direction, in case she went that way. Tomorrow I'm getting posters printed, and will put them around the neighborhood & contact my close neighbors.
My little darling means so much to me, and I feel responsible for her escape... and the danger she may be in. If only I had been here... I might have been able to prevent this from happening. :(
Anyway, I'll keep you updated on the search. Please send out good thoughts & prayers that our little fur baby finds her way back home!
x Sasha
Friday, September 7, 2012
26 before 27
1. Eat Healthy & Get Exercise (at least one 30 min speed walk a day)
2. Go to California in April (visit Ashley, meet Christina & Richard at their gallery show, and of course, Disneyland!)
3. Move into a house (where I will have space for an office & studio & large garden)
4. Date (haven't done this in a looong time)
5. Dress up and get fancy more often
6. Finish work on Cryptic Femina (my art collection)
7. Take a course (maybe sewing, or pottery)
8. Learn to drive (I'm a scaredy cat)
9. Go on an Alaskan Cruise in August 2013 (I dream of seeing the Aurora Borealis)
10. Illustrate a whole faerie tale
11. Write an e-book 'how to'
12. Go kayaking (my favourite water sport, haven't gone in a couple years)
13. Look through a telescope
14. Whiten teeth (odd, I know, but I've been meaning to try this for ages)
15. Video Blog
16. Go to Faerie Worlds in Oregon
17. Start a comic, and share the pages with friends
18. Finish the vampire Etiene's short story with illustrations
19. Re-open my art shop (which also involves fixing the printer)
20. Spend more time with friends
21. Save for a Europe trip
22. Sew my own dress
23. Make a doll out of clay with a shadow box
24. Do what I say I'm going to do. Follow through & be dependable.
25. Go out on my own more often.
26. Live life to the fullest!
Have you ever made a list like this? Link me! :)
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
I'm 26 now!
How did that happen?!
 |
| meeeeeee surrounded by magical tacky ps stars! |
 |
| the cake |
I had a lovely, quiet birthday at home with some lovely ladies.
We drank cupcake wine, ate cream puffs, and black forest cake.
I wonder what this new year will bring?
Monday, August 13, 2012
Overcoming Artist Block
Hello friends!
This will probably be a bit of a longer post than normal. I feel reflective today.
I'm really happy (and relieved) to say that I'm finally past my art block. It was going on for nearly three years, which also happened to coincide with my time spent at art school and out of art school. The program I was in (IDEA - illustration & design, elements and applications) was incredibly intense. I can't really describe the way I felt during that program in words. I met some amazing people, felt like I had a giant creative family, and learned a lot along the way.
I had dedicated myself so much during the second year, that I was spending over 12 hour days at school, working on my assignments (many days as long as 16 hours a day). The program was full time, so I was there all week and most weekends. I prayed a lot during that time, asking God to keep me focused and sane, because the hours and assignments piling up stressed the hell out of me, and I was mentally drained.
So basically it was hell, but the kind of hell you're dedicated to and don't want to give up on. I ended up having some sort of a nervous breakdown right after Christmas break in the second year, and ended up having to leave the program. It didn't help that I have a panic disorder, anxiety, and agoraphobia, so all in all I had a lot to work on, and am still working on.
It's taken a long time for me to pick up the paintbrush/pen/pencil because I actually feel inspired and need to make something. I haven't felt this overwhelming desire in years... I think my time spent at school had sucked that spark out of me, and now that I was out, it didn't know how to come back.
I've been reflecting lately over what has changed in my mind. Why do I suddenly have ideas again? Why am I so inspired and filled with creativity and the need to create? I think I've figured it out.
Christina Lank and Alice Savage are two artists who are constantly producing artwork. Everyday they have something new to share. Everyday I see there work, their inspiration, and I see something of myself hidden there. Their drive, their talent, their need to create... and I feel like it's bringing me back to me. I've found myself thinking, 'oh Alice has a new drawing up, I should share something too!' or Christina is working on a painting and showing the wips and I think, 'I should paint something so I can share the wips too!'.
In a business sense/promoting sense this makes perfect sense. You want to sell art? Be a prolific artist, and constantly share new work. I have a strong interest in business, so those thoughts are always in my head. But as an artist I think I forgot the simple joy of creating and then sharing. I want to be a part of the fun, and share my work with my artist friends who inspire me. Simple as that. :)
Christina also mentioned the idea of making an 'art collection' with a theme, and how that inspires her. I've been thinking about this for a few months - what kind of theme is me? what do I want to paint a lot of? But I think the real question should have been, what do I need to paint a lot of? and then focus on that.
Now that I'm feeling inspired and full of creativity, the theme of a collection has finally come to me, and with that a NAME!
This will probably be a bit of a longer post than normal. I feel reflective today.
I'm really happy (and relieved) to say that I'm finally past my art block. It was going on for nearly three years, which also happened to coincide with my time spent at art school and out of art school. The program I was in (IDEA - illustration & design, elements and applications) was incredibly intense. I can't really describe the way I felt during that program in words. I met some amazing people, felt like I had a giant creative family, and learned a lot along the way.
I had dedicated myself so much during the second year, that I was spending over 12 hour days at school, working on my assignments (many days as long as 16 hours a day). The program was full time, so I was there all week and most weekends. I prayed a lot during that time, asking God to keep me focused and sane, because the hours and assignments piling up stressed the hell out of me, and I was mentally drained.
So basically it was hell, but the kind of hell you're dedicated to and don't want to give up on. I ended up having some sort of a nervous breakdown right after Christmas break in the second year, and ended up having to leave the program. It didn't help that I have a panic disorder, anxiety, and agoraphobia, so all in all I had a lot to work on, and am still working on.
It's taken a long time for me to pick up the paintbrush/pen/pencil because I actually feel inspired and need to make something. I haven't felt this overwhelming desire in years... I think my time spent at school had sucked that spark out of me, and now that I was out, it didn't know how to come back.
I've been reflecting lately over what has changed in my mind. Why do I suddenly have ideas again? Why am I so inspired and filled with creativity and the need to create? I think I've figured it out.
Christina Lank and Alice Savage are two artists who are constantly producing artwork. Everyday they have something new to share. Everyday I see there work, their inspiration, and I see something of myself hidden there. Their drive, their talent, their need to create... and I feel like it's bringing me back to me. I've found myself thinking, 'oh Alice has a new drawing up, I should share something too!' or Christina is working on a painting and showing the wips and I think, 'I should paint something so I can share the wips too!'.
In a business sense/promoting sense this makes perfect sense. You want to sell art? Be a prolific artist, and constantly share new work. I have a strong interest in business, so those thoughts are always in my head. But as an artist I think I forgot the simple joy of creating and then sharing. I want to be a part of the fun, and share my work with my artist friends who inspire me. Simple as that. :)
Christina also mentioned the idea of making an 'art collection' with a theme, and how that inspires her. I've been thinking about this for a few months - what kind of theme is me? what do I want to paint a lot of? But I think the real question should have been, what do I need to paint a lot of? and then focus on that.
Now that I'm feeling inspired and full of creativity, the theme of a collection has finally come to me, and with that a NAME!
Cryptic Femina will be feminine, ethereal, but also with, as someone once commented on my work, "an edge of the nasty." Picture beautiful, detailed lace; and only when you look closer do you realize it's embroidered with skulls. There will be mystery, emotion, and strange and mystical women and places. I'm also going to be doing a lot of sculptural and mixed media pieces.
So now I need a goal - some way to share and present all of this work with people. My work is pretty much lowbrow pop fantasy art, so I need a place that caters to that audience. The Ayden Gallery immediately popped into my head. Admittedly I'm a bit intimidated about approaching them, as pretty much a nobody, and being all like 'hey, want to host a solo art show for me?' But I'm pretty brash like that, so we'll see what happens. (of course I would word it more politely, and show a professional portfolio of some sort).
Welcome to my thought process, haha! Anyway, lots of exciting things coming, I'm sure. I just have to work hard, stay motivated, and feel inspired.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
August is here!
Hello all! I hope your week is going fantastically!
If you're a reader of my blog, you've probably noticed I've been blogging a lot less lately. It's mostly because it's summer time, and I either want to be outside, or am passed out about inside from the heat. As the weather starts to cool down, I'll get back to posting daily, but until then I will try to post two times per week or so.
The good news is I've been busily working on items for our new shop, Sparrows Trove, which will be debuting very soon. The items are looking gorgeous, and I can't wait to share some pics with you hehe...!
I'm also hoping to be able to go to the Vancouver Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention this September, and am busily creating new art to share. My friend Alison Spokes is going to be there too, and I'd love the opportunity to meet her in person.
Here is a new piece I'm working on. It started as a plain ol' sketch I scanned into photoshop, and then after cleaning up the line art, I though about adding colour to it, and here we are. It's inspired by Marie Antoinette, burlesque, and of my love of details. I used various photoshop brushes made by some talented deviants:
This weekend I might be going camping at a friend's cabin. I'm nervous, because of my anxiety and agoraphobia (so obviously this would be hard for me to do), but at the same time I LOVE camping. I love everyone sitting around the campfire roasting hot dogs, and swimming, and falling asleep under the stars. I really hope I can overcome my fears and have some fun.
Are you guys doing anything fun in August? Oh! I can't forget to say, Happy Lughnasadh!
If you're a reader of my blog, you've probably noticed I've been blogging a lot less lately. It's mostly because it's summer time, and I either want to be outside, or am passed out about inside from the heat. As the weather starts to cool down, I'll get back to posting daily, but until then I will try to post two times per week or so.
The good news is I've been busily working on items for our new shop, Sparrows Trove, which will be debuting very soon. The items are looking gorgeous, and I can't wait to share some pics with you hehe...!
I'm also hoping to be able to go to the Vancouver Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention this September, and am busily creating new art to share. My friend Alison Spokes is going to be there too, and I'd love the opportunity to meet her in person.
Here is a new piece I'm working on. It started as a plain ol' sketch I scanned into photoshop, and then after cleaning up the line art, I though about adding colour to it, and here we are. It's inspired by Marie Antoinette, burlesque, and of my love of details. I used various photoshop brushes made by some talented deviants:
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| Marie Antoinette wip |
This weekend I might be going camping at a friend's cabin. I'm nervous, because of my anxiety and agoraphobia (so obviously this would be hard for me to do), but at the same time I LOVE camping. I love everyone sitting around the campfire roasting hot dogs, and swimming, and falling asleep under the stars. I really hope I can overcome my fears and have some fun.
Are you guys doing anything fun in August? Oh! I can't forget to say, Happy Lughnasadh!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Artist Questions MEME
When did you get into art?
I've been drawing since I was a toddler. I was an only child, so drawing was a good activity to do when I spent so many hours alone. I also had lots of stories and characters in my mind, and since I couldn't write yet, I expressed them through pictures.
Show us your oldest piece of art you have on hand:
I was really proud of this one at the time. For some reason, it didn't bother me that I didn't finish drawing the leg or the second wing, haha. I'm still not really a perfectionist, but I would definitely "finish" an image completely now. Even though this is digital, I feel most comfortable working traditionally.
What defines your artistic style?
I'm influenced by anime/manga and the Japanese aesthetic, as well as the voluptuous style of the women in Fathom comics. My inking is also heavily inspired by art nouveau/Mucha. One of my older influences is Brian Froud. I love Arthur Rackham's art as well, though I only discovered his work a couple of years ago.
Do you practice other styles/have you tried other styles in the past?
I'm always trying new things. Tedium makes for a bored Sasha.
What levels of artistic education have you had?
Quite a bit, actually - though I must say that my abilities are mostly due to my own practice over the years. And my art teachers have never really been fond of my style of work anyway. I took a semi-private portfolio building class for two semesters outside of high school, many many many life drawing classes over several years, and painting and illustration classes in university. I also took a lot of design and typography classes.
What is your favourite piece that you have done?
Generally whatever piece I'm currently working on! :P
This one (above) is definitely one of my favourites, and was even published in an art book last year! :)
What do you like most about your art?
I love my characters, and the secret stories they tell. I love to draw the magical little details, strange outfits, and haunting atmospheres. In the piece above, for example, I loved doing the line work on her tights, shading her hair with grays, and dotting the stars in the background sky with my white gel pen.
What do you like least about your art?
Lots of things haha. I feel the expressions on my character's faces lack emotion (or are just bitchy) - the poses are stiff and face forward because I want to feature the clothing/hair - my colour pallet could be more sophisticated... maybe more minimalistic and desaturated... so many things haha!
What would you absolutely refuse to draw?
Anything I don't feel a keen interest in. I only draw things I'm passionate about. For example, photo realism, people's pet portraits, still life, etc... I also don't generally use any photo references, and don't enjoy projects where I'd have to.
List at least one of your “artspirations.”
I would say Kmye-Chan is my all time favourite artist. I don't like to peg myself down, or committing solely to one thing, but I have to say her art is a huge, huge inspiration to me. I love the mood, textures, fashion, line work, pretty much everything in her art. If I ever owned an original piece of her work, it would be my most treasured possession (aside from my child hood teddy bear. yes I am sentimental like that haha). One day!
Other inspirations include: Stephanie Law, Nati Peirandrei, Arthur Rackham, Brian Froud, Kelly McKernan, Audrey Kawasaki, and many more!
Tag people!
Erin Kerr & and other artists out there! Send me a link if you fill this out! :)
I've been drawing since I was a toddler. I was an only child, so drawing was a good activity to do when I spent so many hours alone. I also had lots of stories and characters in my mind, and since I couldn't write yet, I expressed them through pictures.
Show us your oldest piece of art you have on hand:
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| Solaris - 2007 - photoshop |
What defines your artistic style?
I'm influenced by anime/manga and the Japanese aesthetic, as well as the voluptuous style of the women in Fathom comics. My inking is also heavily inspired by art nouveau/Mucha. One of my older influences is Brian Froud. I love Arthur Rackham's art as well, though I only discovered his work a couple of years ago.
Do you practice other styles/have you tried other styles in the past?
I'm always trying new things. Tedium makes for a bored Sasha.
What levels of artistic education have you had?
Quite a bit, actually - though I must say that my abilities are mostly due to my own practice over the years. And my art teachers have never really been fond of my style of work anyway. I took a semi-private portfolio building class for two semesters outside of high school, many many many life drawing classes over several years, and painting and illustration classes in university. I also took a lot of design and typography classes.
What is your favourite piece that you have done?
Generally whatever piece I'm currently working on! :P
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| A Midnight Stroll |
What do you like most about your art?
I love my characters, and the secret stories they tell. I love to draw the magical little details, strange outfits, and haunting atmospheres. In the piece above, for example, I loved doing the line work on her tights, shading her hair with grays, and dotting the stars in the background sky with my white gel pen.
What do you like least about your art?
Lots of things haha. I feel the expressions on my character's faces lack emotion (or are just bitchy) - the poses are stiff and face forward because I want to feature the clothing/hair - my colour pallet could be more sophisticated... maybe more minimalistic and desaturated... so many things haha!
What would you absolutely refuse to draw?
Anything I don't feel a keen interest in. I only draw things I'm passionate about. For example, photo realism, people's pet portraits, still life, etc... I also don't generally use any photo references, and don't enjoy projects where I'd have to.
List at least one of your “artspirations.”
I would say Kmye-Chan is my all time favourite artist. I don't like to peg myself down, or committing solely to one thing, but I have to say her art is a huge, huge inspiration to me. I love the mood, textures, fashion, line work, pretty much everything in her art. If I ever owned an original piece of her work, it would be my most treasured possession (aside from my child hood teddy bear. yes I am sentimental like that haha). One day!
Other inspirations include: Stephanie Law, Nati Peirandrei, Arthur Rackham, Brian Froud, Kelly McKernan, Audrey Kawasaki, and many more!
Tag people!
Erin Kerr & and other artists out there! Send me a link if you fill this out! :)
Monday, July 9, 2012
Who Am I?
I was really inspired by Kyla's recent post, about some of the struggles she's been going through with self confidence and social anxiety, and that journey to finding out who she is and accepting the answers she finds.
As of today I would describe myself as an introvert/hermit, socially uncomfortable wreck, unmotivated in every regard, with my mind on my money and my money on my mind.
Obviously that's quite a list of things to work on.
I also have a lot of qualities that I love:
I am extremely curious about the world around me and how everything works. I was that kid who always asked a million questions, like 'what's my shadow made of?'.
I am a big encourager, and always try to encourage the people I love to reach their dreams, and try to help them in any way I can.
I carry with me a huge sense of hope and faith. Hope in the future; faith that everything will work out as it's meant to be, and that God is watching over me, and helping me to follow my path through the struggles. Sometimes I might feel alone, but in my heart, I know that I'm not.
I have a huge creative spark. When I'm feeling creative it's like a big burst of incredible energy - something like a manic high, I'd imagine - and I just feel incredibly overwhelmed and passionate, like I must create RIGHT NOW. It's an amazing feeling... truly what life is all about.
So right now this is me.
Who are you?
Feel free to write a journal post of your own (and send me a link), or comment below, and let me know who you are in your life right now.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Hey all!
Here's a little preview of a piece I'm working on right now. It's inspired by Marie Antoinette, and the age of Rococo aka all things fabulous.
Here's a little preview of a piece I'm working on right now. It's inspired by Marie Antoinette, and the age of Rococo aka all things fabulous.
As you can probably guess, this piece is done digitally, in photoshop. I photographed a sketch I liked, and decided to colour it. I'm really liking how it's turning out, and can't wait to finish and share it.
As for personal stuff... things have been getting crazy again. Remember that family stuff I was talking about a few days ago? Well it's all coming to head. It's between the best of two evils, and a child's future. I am completely powerless to do anything, and for someone like me, that's VERY frustrating. It's easier when things are black and white, and you can choose the side that is good and right; the side you can believe in and defend. But what happens when neither side is wholly good? Who do you support? In this case, I feel like I can't honestly support either side. So I sit and do nothing but hope for a solution I haven't seen that will be best.
I will try and post again today with something more cheery. :) Thanks for listening! :)
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Kitty & Honey
Hello, hello! I hope you're having a lovely Wednesday, wherever you are.
Before Honey, I had a beautiful tabby cat named Kitty, who sadly passed away a couple of years ago (she was 11 years old). It took my mom and I along time to recover from that feeling of loss, and welcome a new member to our family.
We got Honey when she was almost a year old. We think she may have been under a lot of stress in her previous household, and emotionally neglected. Cat's as kittens need to be held and petted a lot by humans in their first few weeks of life, or they will instinctively be weary of humans, or even fear them for the rest of their lives, which in some cases makes adoption impossible.
When we first brought her home, she was naturally very scared. She hid for about two days under my bed and in my book shelf. I sat by the bed and talked to her sweetly for over an hour, until she finally came out and sniffed me. It was very touch and go. Whenever my mom would make noise in the kitchen, or come in the front door, Honey would hide under the bed, and growl very loudly. Then when we had Tracy's children here, she was extremely nervous, and hissed and spit whenever one of the kids approached her (it's all talk though, she doesn't actually hurt anyone). I think in her previous household she was abused by young children at an early age, and will always be scared of them. I always make sure Tracy's kids treat Honey with respect, and are as calm around her as they can be. Now she trusts them and actually lets them pet her sometimes, and doesn't growl anymore.
Now, almost a year later, I'm happy to say that she has come a long way. She sleeps in the crook of my arm every night, loves belly rubs, hates being brushed, and will smack me in the head with her paw when she wants to play. She isn't really afraid at all anymore, and has made a full turn around, and I believe has become very very happy and content in her new home, with her forever family.
She will never replace Kitty, as I believe no animal can ever replace another's spot in your heart, but I love her just as much, and am so happy to have her in our home.
Honey, being adorable, as always:
Before Honey, I had a beautiful tabby cat named Kitty, who sadly passed away a couple of years ago (she was 11 years old). It took my mom and I along time to recover from that feeling of loss, and welcome a new member to our family.
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| Kitty |
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| Honey |
When we first brought her home, she was naturally very scared. She hid for about two days under my bed and in my book shelf. I sat by the bed and talked to her sweetly for over an hour, until she finally came out and sniffed me. It was very touch and go. Whenever my mom would make noise in the kitchen, or come in the front door, Honey would hide under the bed, and growl very loudly. Then when we had Tracy's children here, she was extremely nervous, and hissed and spit whenever one of the kids approached her (it's all talk though, she doesn't actually hurt anyone). I think in her previous household she was abused by young children at an early age, and will always be scared of them. I always make sure Tracy's kids treat Honey with respect, and are as calm around her as they can be. Now she trusts them and actually lets them pet her sometimes, and doesn't growl anymore.
Now, almost a year later, I'm happy to say that she has come a long way. She sleeps in the crook of my arm every night, loves belly rubs, hates being brushed, and will smack me in the head with her paw when she wants to play. She isn't really afraid at all anymore, and has made a full turn around, and I believe has become very very happy and content in her new home, with her forever family.
She will never replace Kitty, as I believe no animal can ever replace another's spot in your heart, but I love her just as much, and am so happy to have her in our home.
Honey, being adorable, as always:
A short video of Honey:
Do you have any furry companions taking residence in your home?
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Diana f+ Camera
A love letter, to Diana F+.
I've started saving little bits of extra money I make, and putting it towards this camera, as a birthday present for myself. The camera itself only costs about $100, but with all of the peripherals, such as the fish eye lens, wide angle lens, split lens, and 35mm back, it comes out to $320. And that's not counting film. So I've rounded up to $400. So far I've saved $26, and hope to be able to add more to the bank soon. This little graphic I made will stay in my sidebar, which I will update as I save more money.
I seriously cannot WAIT to get this camera. And when I do, be prepared to see lots of epic fails & and hopefully some triumphant wins, in experimental analogue photography.
Okay, so this is totally a post about something I've been obsessing over for the last few weeks.
It's the Diana f+ camera from Lomography. Particularly the Neptune Green. She's just captured my heart.
Here she is in all her analogue glory -
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| Diana f+ Camera via Lomography |
This could be will be me one day - well, me as in I will own a diana and be the one behind the lens, not creepy like I would be this girl
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| photo via bbabyshambles |
Here's some examples of the beautiful photos people have taken with Diana -
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| via i'm nova |
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| via jeabzz |
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| via ava363 |
I've started saving little bits of extra money I make, and putting it towards this camera, as a birthday present for myself. The camera itself only costs about $100, but with all of the peripherals, such as the fish eye lens, wide angle lens, split lens, and 35mm back, it comes out to $320. And that's not counting film. So I've rounded up to $400. So far I've saved $26, and hope to be able to add more to the bank soon. This little graphic I made will stay in my sidebar, which I will update as I save more money.
I seriously cannot WAIT to get this camera. And when I do, be prepared to see lots of epic fails & and hopefully some triumphant wins, in experimental analogue photography.
Tree branch eye lids make up
Hello all!
It's a lovely Tuesday early morning (2am, lol), and I thought I'd share this neato make up I did earlier today. As with most of my art, one of my favourite parts (and likely signatures), is using a lot of ink to line the drawing. I don't know why, but when I ink something, it's like bringing a rough pencil sketch to perfection, and refinement. So I decided to illustrate some creepy silhouette tree branches on my eye lids, and it looked pretty awesome, if I do say so myself. I even wore it out that night.
Anyway, I'd love to hear what you think, and if you think I'm crazy for wearing it outside LOL.
I think I'll do this style of make up for the art shows I have coming up. ^_^
Have a lovely day!
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