Courageously Creating

I Heart Minneapolis and Open Book (Visual Journal Pages)

2012-01-29T12:41:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of journal pages I made today. I am working in a Flexi-Sketch book that measures 6 x 12 inches. I love the long pages. There is just something that draws me to them.
I also journaled about how much I love Open Book in Minneapolis. It is the home of my favorite places: The Loft Literary Center, The Minnesota Center for Book Arts, and The Coffee Gallery. If you live in the Midwest and you enjoy writing, book arts, letter press, or coffee/tea, you must visit Open Book.

iphone fun and a journal page for Open Studio with Misty Mawn

2012-01-27T21:01:00.000-06:00

Using Fusioncam

Using Leme Cam

What is your favorite iphone or smartphone photo app?

Have you taken a self-portrait lately? Just do it. It's good for you.

Crows and Loring Park Photographs-January 2012

2012-01-21T20:11:00.000-06:00

Gray wisps in the darkening sky

You are there

Seeking a spot to rest for the night

Soon to join your family

of black feathered friends

you remain

steady

on the tip top of the tree branch

through wind and cold temperatures

until tomorrow

when you will fly again

somewhere new

A Story About Crows

2012-01-21T11:06:00.002-06:00

My mother is an artist. One evening, when she was out in the city, she saw a murder of crows flock to Loring Park. She was so taken by this event, she asked me to take some photographs for her to paint from. So on a cold day in January, I walked around the park and took photographs in daylight, twilight, and dusk. I wasn't prepared for the shift in weather, as just a day before, it had reached nearly 40 degrees. But this day, it was in the teens, which is much more typical for January in Minnesota. When it was dark, I was photographing right from my car, as it was freezing outside. The wind and cold were making my fingers refuse to click the shutter, so in my car I went, blasting the heater. Frantically warming my fingers, yet patiently waiting for the moment, I sat. Then I heard them. They were coming from many directions, and cawing loudly. Now I was snapping pictures left and right, literally. It was a truly amazing sight that lasted for about an hour.

I will post more literal pictures of the crows flocking soon. I also hope to share my mom's paintings once she finishes them up.

How has nature amazed you lately?

Art + iPhone Photos = Happy

2012-01-16T12:45:00.001-06:00

All of the above photos were using the Lo-Mob app.

Below, I used the TtV Camera app.

Hope you have a fabulous day!

Getting Ready to Elevate the Ordinary

2012-01-15T20:27:00.000-06:00

On February 13th, Andrea Scher's 6 week online photography class called Elevate the Ordinary will start. I am having a hard time waiting until then.

I have been to a local fabric outlet twice in the last couple of weeks, and I am so inspired by the colors and shapes that I see there. I just had to take some photos. I always get a little nervous when I start taking photos in a store, but sometimes you just have to go with the inspiration and not worry about anything else. Who cares if people think you are a little crazy, right?

Artwork from Saturday

2012-01-14T23:22:00.001-06:00

The self-portrait above, and the writing piece below are for Misty Mawn's Open Studio online class. We are one week into the class and Misty has already provided her students with so much inspiration, technique, and fabulous assignments in a variety of media. She is an impressive teacher. I think we all feel pretty lucky to be in her class.

It's been a wild weekend so far. Thank goodness for art spaces and time to create.

How is your weekend going?

Upcoming Online Class from WildCreativeHeart

2012-01-11T05:11:00.000-06:00

A fellow artist, nature lover, and spiritual being is offering a fantastic online class. It starts on January 16th, and runs for 5 weeks. You can find out all of the wonderful details on her site Wild Creative Heart.
She has a promo video up on YouTube. Here is the link for that.
We can always use a little more spiritual connection in our lives, don't you think?

Photos from Monday and RADLAB Love

2012-01-09T18:17:00.000-06:00

It was sunny and nice out today. I took two walks. It was so nice to feel the sun and smell the fresh air. I also took a few photos, then altered them using RADLAB. I love RADLAB.

What is your favorite photo editing software?

(Sometimes I look crabby in self-portraits. How about you? Serious or smiley?)

Cats Like to Plan, Too

2012-01-08T10:06:00.000-06:00

My cat decided that she really liked the idea of planning for the new year. When I wasn't looking, she grabbed my pencil and planner and gave it her best shot.

She decided that planning is exhausting. She said that she'll leave it up to me to make sure that she gets enough kitty treats and love throughout the year.

New Year's Eve in Minne-snow-ta

2012-01-01T09:41:00.000-06:00

My husband and I went for a walk last night around 9:40pm just when the snow storm was dumping huge fluffs of snow. It was so fun walking in the quiet, white night. Snow makes everything look so magical.

My husband is a flashlight maker. Last night he used

his Direct Drive XM-L U2 (a TorchLab original). He sells his lights through

Oveready.com His lights light up the sky. It was so awesome to see the snow

pouring down on us.

How did you spend New Year's Eve, and what are your plans for ringing in the New Year?

I Am Here

2011-12-26T18:48:00.000-06:00

This poem was written today as an introduction to Misty Mawn's Open Studio online class.
The "Open" sign rests on the wall outside of Betsy Bowen's art studio in Grand Marais, Minnesota.
I chose this photo to go with the poem I wrote because "I am here, and I am open" to receiving the grace that is here for me. It has been a long time since I've felt so connected to Spirit. I am trying to keep my connection true through writing, listening, making art, and breathing. By participating in these activities, I am able to calm, center, and connect with Great Spirit and the energies of goodness all around me.
It is hard to explain the shift that has taken place within me. All I know is that something has happened, and I am feeling pure LOVE.
May the LOVE radiate to you, through you and around you, as well.
Blessings to you,
Briana

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS!

2011-12-24T11:40:00.000-06:00

Just About One Year Ago (in Photos)

2011-12-09T12:54:00.000-06:00

Dear Universe, God, Great Spirit . . .

2011-12-04T12:45:00.000-06:00

Dear Universe, God, Great Spirit, Mother Earth, Goddess of Life,
Please help my husband and I as we continue to try to start our family. This journey has been long and difficult. I am trying to see the gifts that this journey has brought to us. There definitely are some, but the best gift would be having our own baby. The financial stress of treatment is overwhelming, so I am leaving that part up to you. We will do our part by being good humans, we will continue to take care of our health, and manage our emotional stress. We are thankful for this beautiful planet and would love to share the joy of life with our own little one. Please guide us through this, so that we may bring home a baby from the hospital in 2012.
May It Be So,
Briana

To read more of our story, please visit the Help/Donate page of this blog.

Baby, You Are So Loved Painting for Sale

2011-12-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

This original 6x6 painting is now up for sale in my Etsy shop. Thanks for looking!

Tea time and book club

2011-11-29T05:49:00.002-06:00

For this month's book club meeting, we gathered at a local coffee shop. I had tea, someone else had hot chocolate, and another person had coffee. I really enjoy the atmosphere of coffee shops. Not sure what it is exactly.
Our book that we discussed was Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer. The reviews of the group were mixed. It was a sad book, but also quite symbolic and deep. There will be a movie coming out in 2012 starring Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock. I wonder what the movie will focus on, as there were many layered stories in the book. If you are looking for something to cheer you up, this probably won't do it. One positive message of the book is to remember to say "I love you", as you never know when it might be too late to say those important words.
What are you reading?

Orange Spiral Arts Re-Design

2011-11-26T16:48:00.000-06:00

Hello All,
I worked on my business blog, Orange Spiral Arts, today. I'd love it if you'd take a peek and share some love over there. Thank you so much!
-Briana

Our Two Thanksgivings

2011-11-26T13:43:00.002-06:00

My husband and I went to two Thanksgiving meals on Thanksgiving Day. We went to my grandma's house for a 1 o'clock meal, then to his parents' house for a 6 o'clock meal. The meals were quite different, which we were very thankful for. Here are a few photos from Thanksgiving at two households in the midwestern part of the USA.

A fresh salad with pomegranate seeds and persimmon fruit.

Carrots and rutabagas cooked to perfection.

The table setting at my Grandma's house.

The table setting at my in-laws' house.

Here is my plate of food from my Grandma's house.

This food is traditional for me and my family. We grew up eating this same thing nearly every Thanksgiving.

This is my sweety carving the turkey at his parents' house. The dog is quite interested.

If you are from the USA, what did you eat for Thanksgiving? Do you and your family have any traditions or Thanksgiving rituals?

Thankful for Nutritious and Delicious, et tu?

2011-11-22T21:22:00.001-06:00

I tried a new restaurant in Minneapolis recently. It is called Tosca. It is here that I ate my first kumquat. It was served on a bed of greens on top of goat cheese. It was delicious.

I hope you are getting all kinds of nutritious and delicious food in your tummy. And if you are celebrating Thanksgiving this week, Happy Thanksgiving. I am grateful for so many things. What are you most thankful for?

Photos from My Saturday

2011-11-19T20:24:00.000-06:00

Bringing in the firewood.

Today we got our first snowfall. This photo is from the beginning.

My Remains of the Day goodie swap package arrived today!

Here I am messing around with some iphone photo apps. This was a bleached border.

What can you make with a paper bag, tape, and paint?

2011-11-18T17:26:00.000-06:00

I have been looking for a journal with brown paper. I know that they are out there, but not where I have been looking so far. I decided to see what I could do on my own with a lovely brown paper bag. I used Duck Tape and clear plastic yellow tape. I've added a little paint here and there, just for fun. I am not quite sure where this will go, but I sure had fun making it! Love it when inspiration strikes!

Hi

2011-11-16T20:35:00.000-06:00

This is my RadLab self.

The Sweater I Wore Today

2011-11-15T20:34:00.000-06:00

When it was my birthday . . .

My Sweety gave me this super soft sweater. It is from Target. It's the "Chenille cardigan with shall collar", which happens to be on sale online right now. I love it, and I wore it again today. It was the perfect thing that I needed to keep me cozy at work when I was feeling kind of crummy.

Gina Rossi Armfield's Animal Spirits class

2011-11-14T17:40:00.002-06:00

A couple of years ago, I saw an article in Somerset Studio about a woman's spirit animals artwork. I really loved the images, so much that they stuck in my head all of this time. I couldn't recall the artist's name, but with the help of Google, I now have the information that I was searching for. I was feeling really called to these memories of this woman's art, and I thought I remembered that there was an online class that went with the theme of spirit animals. I was pretty sure I wouldn't be able to find the class, but I did! I went with my inspiration here, trusted my gut, and went for it. I found Gina Rossi Armfield's blog, Joyful Purpose, at www.sweetsistergina.typepad.com
Sorry if this a bit choppy. I am not feeling well, and am trying to post from my phone.
I took some pictures of the work I have been doing for Gina's class. If I can't figure out how to attach them, I will create a new post soon with the photos. The class is great, and I am so glad that I trusted my inner wisdom to seek it out. How are you doing with your creativity? Any fun projects to share?

Stage 2 of Paintings for "Get Your Paint On-Beyond the Basics" online class

2011-11-11T14:42:00.000-06:00

Not sure if anyone will see it, but I did some research on fertility symbols around the world. With some of those images in my subconscious, I began to sketch out the above figures in my two paintings for Get Your Paint On-Beyond the Basics. This is stage 2, just beyond the underpainting. I am not sure what they will look like when they are completed. Will I paint anything out? Will I bring something in particular to the front of the painting? Usually when I create, I completely trust the process and am in a "zone". Sometimes things appear to me as I work. Some people call this creative voice, creative vision, God, Spirit, etc. What happens when you create? Do you pre-plan your work, or create in the moment as you are guided? I'd love to hear about your process, as creativity is fascinating to me.

Photos from Today (Sorry if you don't like cats)

2011-11-06T19:30:00.000-06:00

Here are my two canvases, with background paint on them, for Get Your Paint On-Beyond the Basics. You might think I am a huge University of Minnesota sports fan by the colors I chose, but really I chose what called to me in my bucket o' paints. Perhaps it's the influence of fall. Who knows. Not sure how they will evolve, but I will be sure to share as they progress.

I am in love with my new birthday boots. They are by the company Simple. They are narrow and fit my feet perfectly. They are so comfy, they feel like slippers! Thanks for the great gift, Sweetie!

My cat has something she'd like to say. What do you think it is?

Hope you had a nice weekend. Tomorrow, Creative + Practice begins, and I am super excited! (Read previous post for links and info).

10 Things You May Not Know About Me

2011-11-05T07:09:00.000-05:00

1. My favorite color is orange. I especially like orange and lime green, or orange and pink together.
2. I used to hate the color pink when I was a teenager and young adult.
3. I recently became familiar with Marcy Nelson-Garrison's P.I.N.K. Paradigm, and I think it is really cool.
4. I will be at a CPR training for four hours today for my work requirements.
5. I am an online class fanatic.
6. And I am taking two online classes at one time. One started two weeks ago, and it is Get Your Paint On-Beyond the Basics with Mati McDonough and Lisa Congdon.
7. The second online class starts on Monday. It is with Lisa Sonora Beam, and it's called Creative+Practice. Here's a little video teaser she just shared on November 3rd.
8. I am a morning person, but sometimes I can stay up really late and make art.
9. I am a book lover, and Amazon.com is my friend.
10. I hope to be a mother someday soon. I am going to start making artwork around being fertile, becoming pregnant, and becoming a mother.

The piece I am sharing today was not drawn by me; I printed and colored it with Stabilo CarbOthello pastel pencils. I found it on the site fertilitymoon. I am not crazy about the site because of all of the advertising among the articles. Also, whole paragraphs appear twice for some reason. However, there are a few bits of good information, and I did enjoy the Art Therapy printables.

Where I Have Been Lately . . . Some Good, Some Bad

2011-10-31T16:57:00.000-05:00

I have been ~~reading~~ devouring Goddess Leonie's new book 73 Lessons Every Goddess Must Know. Her book came just in time for me to face some difficulties this week. I have a dear family member in the ICU, and another who was in Advanced Care at the same time. I have been feeling really bummed out, so I decided I needed to follow Goddess Leonie's advice and make myself a green smoothie (pictured above). You can find out more about green smoothies from Goddess Leonie's new book, and also from Day 18 of the World's Biggest Summit. Daphne Cohn shares a video on how to make your own green smoothie. The World's Biggest Summit is over, as of today, but I believe you can still sign up and have access to all of the fantastic interviews. Some are mp3's and some are via video. I have been listening to the recordings on my commute to and from work, and have found them extremely inspiring and well done. Thank you Goddess Leonie for putting together the World's Biggest Summit! It was awesome!!!

In the midst of the trauma and near tragedies of family members, I won tickets to a concert at First Avenue last Wednesday, via Radio K. I had been really wanting to see the band Phantogram, since my sister introduced me to their music this past spring. I was even thinking that tickets to a show would make a fantastic birthday present. I didn't even know that they were coming to town when I put that thought out into the Universe. Guess what? They were coming to town, and I won tickets. Guess who I took? Yup, my awesome sister. If you like techno/electronica, you'll like Phantogram.

As of yesterday, both family members are doing much better. One is out of the hospital, and the one whose hand I am holding, is still in there. It looks like she is going to make it, and we are all very happy to hear that news.
Hope you and yours are doing well.
Blessings to you,
Briana

Honey, Everything's Coming Up Roses

2011-10-17T16:04:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I spent the day with my mom. It was a day of bonding, talking, creating, walking, and photographing. That's my kind of day, 'ya know?
Our walk took us around Lake Harriet, and into the Rose Gardens. I was shocked to see beautiful roses still in bloom in mid-October in Minnesota. It was a true gift and a blessing that we crossed that street to take in the smells, sights, and sheer beauty. I would like to share some of my photos from yesterday in the hope that they bring you a sense of joy and peace.
Namaste,
Briana

Ah . . . Photography, Collage, and Spirituality, All Together

2011-10-10T20:56:00.002-05:00

Catherine Anderson is the author of the fantastic book called The Creative Photographer. I mean, I REALLY LOVE THIS BOOK! Today, on day 10 of The World's Biggest Summit, presented by Goddess Leonie Dawson, there was a video of Catherine Anderson talking about SoulCollage. I've had mixed feelings about this process for some reason, but tonight, after watching Catherine's video, I was sold. How could I not be? I love collage, photography, and spirituality, so what is not to love about this SoulCollage process? Perhaps I just didn't know enough about it. Perhaps you are now interested as well. If you are, there is a new version of the original SoulCollage book. You can find it here on Amazon.com. Here is the video that just might inspire you to do a little SoulCollage. Enjoy! :)

Thinking about the Day of the Dead

2011-10-08T19:54:00.001-05:00

I am preparing to teach a mini workshop about the Day of the Dead, which is a Mexican holiday to honor and celebrate those who have passed on.
I just spent a lot of time on Etsy looking for ideas, inspiration, and supplies for my workshop. If you click this link, I think you will be able to see some of the things that I found that I think are pretty cool. There were a lot of other things I liked, too, but was trying to keep things under control, if you know what I mean. Take a peek, and see if anything sparks your interest!

To color and celebration!
Cheers,
Briana

The X FACTOR

2011-10-05T22:06:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I am about to say this, but, tonight I became enthralled by the auditions for The X FACTOR. I don't know much about the show, because I don't watch TV. I did watch about a dozen videos on YouTube posted by TheXFactorUSA. I am very moved by music, family support, and positive encouragement. If you like those things, I bet you'll like the "best of" auditions on YouTube, too.
(Thank you to Mary Ann Moss for posting two of her favorite videos on her blog!)
Yes to music! Yes to big dreams! Yes to life!

Fall Camping (Part 1)

2011-10-04T05:42:00.000-05:00

There are so many special things about camping in the fall season. The leaves are turning on the trees. The air is crisp, which makes that camp fire feel amazing. The birds are migrating over head. The squirrels and other animals are foraging for winter. And if you are lucky enough to wake up in the morning, and it was below freezing at night, you'll see amazing frosty plants, grasses, and leaves at sunrise!

The thermometer we brought read 27 degrees. Now that the sun was out, it was already warming up to 30 degrees. Note, that is still below freezing! That night, I had a dream that my face was literally freezing, and it probably was. Good thing my brain woke me up, so I could snuggle into my sleeping bag.

Many of the trails we hiked were horse and pedestrian trails through the woods. It was fun to see horses up close.

Does anyone know what these plants are called? I love their overall shape, as well as the little round tubes that make them up.

Can you see the dirty little ladybug on my boot?

Day of the Dead Exhibit

2011-09-26T20:59:00.000-05:00

If you are in the Twin Cities area, you've got to check out the Day of the Dead post card exhibit at Open Book in downtown Minneapolis. It is running through November 6th, 2011, so you have a little bit of time to go and see it. If you are not in town, I've included a number of photos from my visit to the show today. Both my mom and I entered post cards. It was so fun to see them hanging among all of the other wonderful works of art. We were blown away by the great work of all of the participants.

So, I am wondering. Do you celebrate or have any rituals around your loved ones passing on to the next life? Have you ever been to Mexico to see a Day of the Dead celebration? There are some great books out with fabulous photographs. One of the books that was in the Minnesota for Book Arts Shop was The Days of the Dead: Mexico's Festival of Communion with the Departed.

Homemade Gift Wrap

2011-09-25T16:58:00.000-05:00

So ya know when your printer is giving you trouble and you have to print those test pages to check on the ink? I have turned some of those papers into gift wrap. I used watercolor paint and stencils on the paper. I taped two pieces of 8.5 x 11 papers together with yellow transparent tape. And voila! My best friend's birthday gift is all wrapped up! Note: not all types of people will appreciate this type of wrapping paper, but all of your cool, arty friends will!

RaNdOm InSpIrAtIoNs

2011-09-25T11:35:00.000-05:00

I was playing around with my iphone apps again. I found Popbooth, which is a fun photobooth app. It was FREE through iTunes. I am pretty sure there is a version for the Android as well. I just can't get enough of colorful things!

Speaking of colorful, I created my Totem Animal for Mira Reisberg's Hero's Art Journey online class. I really wanted my animal to be a woodpecker or a swan, but I just can't get away from my love for turtles. If you click the totem animal link above, you can find out what your totem animal is, too, by asking yourself a few simple questions.

Salamander City (In the Woods)

2011-09-20T05:37:00.000-05:00

I was at a local state park this past weekend with my husband. We went out for a walk in the woods shortly after a five hour rain had stopped. Guess what we saw a lot of? SALAMANDERS! These little creatures are so cute! Luckily my husband has had plenty of experience with these amphibians, so he didn't hesitate to pick them up for some photo shoots.
If you are interested in learning more about salamanders, go here.

Happy Harvest Moon

2011-09-12T20:22:00.000-05:00

I took these pictures last night of the moon, which is nearly full. Tonight is the harvest moon. Isn't it amazing what we get to see from Earth? The moon is so beautiful. We are a lucky species.
How are you celebrating this time of year?
What are you noticing where you live?
For me, the winds are blowin' in from the North. That means cold weather will be here soon! Not sure if I am ready, but here it comes.

BIG Fearless Painting Work for Week #5

2011-09-11T10:27:00.000-05:00

(This photo courtesy of my husband) :)

Wow! I completed my first really BIG painting last night for Connie Hozvicka's BIG FEARLESS PAINTING online class. It was truly an amazing experience.
Just in case you are wondering, yes, that is a representation of myself, and yes, I am wearing an orange cape! I guess that's just how I'm feeling right now!

BIG Fearless Painting Work for Week #4

2011-09-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

These are self-portraits. One is from a blind contour drawing, and the other is from a contour drawing while looking in the mirror.
I am loving this online class. If you haven't taken anything with Connie Hozvicka yet, do look her up. She's a great teacher! You can find out what she's up to on her blog here.
Thanks for stopping by! Feel free to let me know you are here by leaving a comment below.

Naturally Beautiful on Labor Day

2011-09-05T12:25:00.000-05:00

I wish all things good, natural, and beautiful for you on this Labor Day holiday.

Also, if you enjoy taking photos, I highly recommend the new book by Catherine Anderson called The Creative Photographer. Dragonflies just might come visit you while you are reading outdoors!

If you haven't seen it yet, feel free to come by and visit my new blog called Orange Spiral Arts. Much more will be coming soon!!!

Renaissance Festival 2011 (Photo Post)

2011-09-03T21:59:00.000-05:00

Have you been to any state, county, or local fairs lately? What were some of the highlights?

Morning Art Page-Tuesday

2011-08-30T05:33:00.000-05:00

Every time I use my art materials lately, I feel like I am learning something new about them. I am not sure if I am just more aware and present when creating, or if something else is going on. I am happy to be creating on a regular basis again, that is for sure. Even "morning pages" or "warm-up" exercises can help you grow so much as an artist. That personal expression through line, shape, color, etc., is so freeing.

Morning Sketch for BIG Fearless Painting online class

2011-08-29T21:10:00.000-05:00

This week for BIG Fearless Painting with Connie Hozvicka, we are to create a "morning page". Each day this week, we need to commit to making something in a smaller journal. Today I used Crayola markers and oil pastels. The daily commitment is going to be a little tough for me, but I am really going to try to make it happen. If for some reason I can't get up early enough, I will try to force myself to make the sketch before I go to bed.
Connie has some other classes coming up, so if you're interested, you can find out more on her website here.

Here is the elephant that inspired my "morning page" today. I saw him at the Renaissance Festival.

BIG Fearless Painting Work for Week #3

2011-08-24T05:50:00.000-05:00

I am in Connie Hozvicka's BIG Fearless Painting online class right now. I am part of "Tribe 7", meaning, this is her seventh group for this particular workshop. I am having a great time painting BIG. It is something I was really intimidated to do. I have been enjoying painting outside in my backyard, as the weather is still nice and summer-y here in Minnesota.
What classes are you taking or have taken that you would recommend? What painting or creative work have you been doing lately? Leave a comment to share your thoughts.

Saturday-Part II (Photo Post)

2011-08-20T20:00:00.000-05:00

Saturday-Part I (Photo Post)

2011-08-20T14:42:00.002-05:00

Amazing Face

2011-08-16T20:26:00.000-05:00

On my morning commute, I was driving behind this silver semi-truck. I suddenly started seeing faces looking and smiling at me. I had to pull out the camera, and was so excited when I was able to capture what I was seeing in real life. The sunrise and movement of the vehicle made the faces shift and change, but I saw various smiling faces for a long time. Hope you find it as amazing as I did! No wonder why I was in such a great mood this morning!

Caterpillar Sighing Video from My Backyard

2011-08-14T21:14:00.000-05:00

Look what I swa

BIG Fearless Painting Work for Week #1

2011-08-13T20:11:00.000-05:00

It has felt good painting BIG this week. It has also been good to loosen up and experience the process of painting. These are all warm-up exercises. I am really excited to start week #2 of BIG.

Circa Ceramics at Powderhorn Art Fair Photos

2011-08-09T05:51:00.000-05:00

I totally loved the Circa Ceramics booth at the Powderhorn Art Fair. This husband and wife team create brightly colored ceramic dishes, magnets, as well as charms for necklaces. The husband was the person in the booth when my sister and I stopped by. He was so, so nice. Don't you just want to give business to people like that? I bought a necklace for me, and one for my sister. I'd love to have a kitchen full of their dishes, too. Maybe some day. You can see more of their work from their website, etsy, blog and on flickr. Enjoy!

Faces 101 with Carla Sonheim

2011-08-08T22:11:00.000-05:00

I've been making art for Carla Sonheim's Faces 101 online class. She is a fantastic teacher. I am having lots of fun camping with Carla!

Imaginary Creatures Day 1

2011-08-01T21:52:00.000-05:00

I am Camping with Carla Sonheim this August. (There is a link to her classes on the right sidebar). This first week is about making imaginary creatures. With Carla's amazing guidance, I created something that I think is pretty fun. Here it is:

Total Alignment with Connie of DirtyFootprints Studio

2011-08-01T08:59:00.000-05:00

I am totally into what this wise woman is up to. Check out her blog this week for a FREE week long workshop. It is called Total Alignment.
Sending all good things your way!
Peace and Smiles,
Briana

New Journal Pages (In Stages)

2011-07-31T23:12:00.000-05:00

These pages were done for Juliana Coles' class called "Initiation". I started out with stenciled and spray painted images, then worked with text and paint from there. Any first reactions? Thoughts?

Self-Portrait Today

2011-07-25T20:58:00.000-05:00

I am reading Wide Open by Randi Feuerhelm-Watts. Does anyone know if she is still making art? I could only find things by her from 2009, with the exception of a photo book about graffiti, called Street Level. Randi, if you are out there, say "hello"!

Photo Fun

2011-07-16T13:39:00.000-05:00

Every now and then I remember how fun it is to use my phone apps on my camera. That IS the main reason I wanted an iphone. I need to take more photos with it and post them here. What's your favorite iphone app?

New Header

2011-07-10T11:14:00.000-05:00

I made a painting this morning based on an idea I had upon waking. I liked it so much that I used part of it as my new header for this blog. For those of you who were here looking at the header from yesterday, which one do you like better?

Thanks for sharing your opinions!

ART, BOOKS, AND INSPIRAITON

Header from Saturday (No. 1)

Header from Today (No. 2)

Which one do you like better?

I appreciate your feedback.

This is the painting. I am not sure if it is finished yet, but I am enjoying it as is right now.

OrangeSpiral

2011-07-09T13:57:00.001-05:00

I finally updated my OrangeSpiral Etsy shop. I actually have several new things to add, too, but I haven't taken the photos yet. I will do that this weekend and post some note cards and postcards featuring my original photographs from my recent trip Up North.

Thank you for taking a peek. If you like something, let me know. If you'd like to see something specific in my shop, I'd love to hear that, too.

Full Tilt Boogie-Sewn Chains Binding

2011-07-09T10:37:00.000-05:00

Hi All,
I've been fully taken by Mary Ann Moss' Full Tilt Boogie class. This week I made another journal that she teaches in the class. It uses Keith Smith's sewn chains binding technique. Mary Ann said it was easy, but I really didn't believe her until I tried it myself. Guess what? I can say with a smile that it actually was easy! It is also very beautiful. Here are a few pictures of my journal.

The cover is an old library book. The library pocket is still attached to the back! I just love that!

New Class Pet

2011-07-05T21:03:00.000-05:00

I am not one who typically likes small pets, like gerbils, hamsters, or fish. However, I was taken by our new class pet right away because of its amazing colors. I particularly like its colors when I use funked out photo apps and my iphone camera. Here are a few quick snaps of "Rosie".

By the way, after the children named the fish "Rosie", the teachers read "Male Beta" on it's original jar. OOPS! The children will never know, right?

Trip Up North in Photos (Part 2)

2011-06-29T20:01:00.003-05:00

My husband really wanted me to wear this head piece to protect myself from the ravenous mosquitoes, but I declined. I only allowed enough time to take a photo.

This is a wilted version of the Minnesota state flower: The Pink Lady Slipper.

My husband caught a snake on our hike through the woods.

Are eagles and ravens friends? They seemed to be for the moment we saw them together on these branches.

Do you see that rainbow? It was an amazing phenomenon.

The is the bridge in Duluth, Minnesota that leads to Park Point.

Don't you just love this business card? I sure do.

Pictured here are hand woven hammocks being sold at the Art Fair at Park Point, near Duluth, Minnesota last weekend.

I fell in love with the art of Tatiana Oles. One of the items I purchased from her might show up in some future projects I have up my sleeve.

No Radio

2011-06-28T20:56:00.000-05:00

During the week, I have a fairly long commute to and from work. Sometimes I listen to a book on cd. Sometimes I listen to my ipod. Most of the time I listen to the radio. I am usually tuned into 89.3 The Current because the DJ's are great and the music isn't so bad, either.
Tonight I tried the radio, but I had to turn it off. It wasn't because the music sucked, or because I was on the phone while driving.
It was because I had a lot of thinking to do. My mind was preoccupied with questions about my life, my future, and possible decisions to make. The message that kept coming up the most was that I have to find my joy. What brings me joy? What makes me feel happy and inspired?
Sometimes that seems like an easy question to answer, other times, it's a mystery.
Maybe I'll have to make the commute in silence all week long, just to see if my inner, wise voice will make itself loud and clear for me to hear.

Weekend Up North in Photos Part 1

2011-06-27T20:54:00.000-05:00

The weekend was full of fishing, camping, canoeing, rock skipping, art gallery viewing, and communing with THE NATURE. How did you spend your weekend?

Off for the Weekend

2011-06-24T07:46:00.000-05:00

I will be taking a break from posting this weekend. I will be exploring, photographing, and canoeing instead. Will be back soon! Hope you are doing something fun, too!

Because WE can

2011-06-22T20:58:00.000-05:00

We have the freedom. We have the right. Let us not forget.

If you'd like to see these in person, just visit Minneapolis, Minnesota's Open Book.

How to Make a Crazy Card with Paper Scraps and Tape

2011-06-20T11:06:00.001-05:00

How to Make a Crazy Card using Tape and Scraps

1. Start with a piece of paper, folded in half.

For example, a 9” x 12” sheet of paper, folded in half, would make a card that is 6 x 9 inches, or
4.5 x 12 inches, depending upon the paper grain.

Any size paper will work.

2. Use a paper trimmer to cut different sized “chunks” out of the front and back of the card.
I prefer to make the “chunks” a variety of sizes, but how you choose to do it is great.

(Sometimes you need scissors to finish the cut).

3. Use collage scraps, paper ephemera, or photos to add the “chunks” back into the card. You can use a cutting mat to measure the specific sizes of paper you’ll need to fill the spaces back in.

Now it’s time to use that TAPE!!!!

Attach the paper pieces to the card with colorful tape. You could use masking tape, Japanese washi tape, or clear plastic decorative tape, etc.

{A variety of thick and thin sized tape is really fun to have when creating cards and journal pages.}

Remember, the back of the card is just as important as the front and inside of the card. So, don’t be afraid to wrap tape around the edges of the card onto the back.

Other Considerations:

To jazz up the front of the card, here are a few suggestions:

1. Create something out of tape, like a square frame that might surround a picture or set of words.

2. Use rubber stamp letters to spell “Thank You” or “Happy Birthday”, or whatever you’d like to say.

3. Use pen and ink to create a doodle.

On the inside of the card, you could:

1. Use rubber stamp letters to print your message.

2. Use a pen or pencil to write a nice message in your own handwriting.

3. Use a typewriter or computer to type your message. Then print and paste that onto the card.

On the back of the card, you could:

1. Use decorative borders . . . either rubber stamp or a paper version.

2. Write or print, “Handmade with Love By . . .”

3. Leave it as is, because it already looks great!

I came up with this method of card making while working on a journal for Mary Ann Moss’ online class, Full Tilt Boogie.

Making cards, or journal pages, in this manner is a great way to use up those bits and pieces of paper strips and scraps that we simply can’t throw away.

Card open

Front of card

Back of card

Use your creativity and have fun!

[This is the first tutorial on my blog, and I'd love to hear feedback on what you liked! What other tutorials would you like to see?]

Video is Up-Full Tilt Boogie Exposed Spine Journal

2011-06-20T09:30:00.000-05:00

Full Tilt Boogie-Exposed Binding Journal

Music by Sigur Ros

This is one of my first videos using iMovie. I learned how to add music. I am excited to have learned this process. This video is far from perfect, but a step in the right direction!

Enjoy!

Full Tilt Boogie-Exposed Spine Journal

2011-06-18T10:33:00.000-05:00

I spent yesterday engrossed in Mary Ann Moss' latest online class called Full Tilt Boogie. I didn't think I'd finish a book, but I ended up staying up really late to complete it. I was totally enthralled in the whole process. My neck and back were hurting from being at the table all day and night. I'd take a few stretch breaks here and there, and that seemed to help. I am happy with how the book turned out. It isn't perfect, but Mary Ann says that's okay.
In case you didn't notice, I used A TON of tape to piece my pages together. This process was soooooo fun. I loved using tape, scrapbook paper, and ephemera to create the pages.
I've had all of these supplies around for a long time, and never have I used them quite in this way. Life is fun! Art is fun! Online classes are fun! Yay! Yay! Yay!

Recent Journal Pages

2011-06-15T05:32:00.000-05:00

I have been using and loving the new Strathmore Visual Journal series of blank books lately. The one I am currently using is the 9-inch x 12-inch Bristol version. The paper has a smooth finish and is 100 lb. The description on the cover says the following,

“Bristol-Vellum Surface

Vellum finish is great for any dry media including pencil, charcoal and pastel. Also good for pen and ink, marker and collage. Acid free.”

As for the pages I created, the first one contains printed photographs, stencils, a taped in flower, and journal writing. The page is about my sister’s graduation from college at the University of Minnesota. The stencils are from the Stencil 101 Ed Roth stationery kit. To spray them onto the page, I used copic markers and the copic airbrush system. I really enjoyed how the copic markers worked as a spray medium. The thing I had trouble with was the air can getting really cold. I feared that it might explode. The air can states the angle to properly hold the can and to not use it for an extended period of time. I found this a bit annoying, since the angle I was using, was the angle I could achieve the results I was looking for. Apparently the can getting cold is completely normal, and is just one of the drawbacks of compressed air cans.

The next set of pages makes use of a variety of tape, copic markers, and a Photoshopped “stencil” photo of my sister. I liked this photo because it sort of looks like both my sister and me. This was my first attempt at using tape to create a shirt. I also was experimenting with outlining shapes, which is something that I didn’t do until I learned about this technique through online mentors. I give credit to Teesha Moore, Misty Mawn, and Mary Ann Moss. By the way, Mary Ann Moss is teaching a new online class beginning Friday, June 17^th called Full Tilt Boogie. You can find out all of the gorgeous details by clicking on the class title.

Finally the last page spread I have to share includes a spray-painted pocket page on the left. The right side of the page is a bunch of shredded security envelopes and other paper ephemera that was used as padding in a box I received. I just loved the tiny shapes, colors, and bits of security envelope. I used glossy Mod-Podge to glue the pieces to the journal page.

Self-Reflection

2011-06-14T05:58:00.000-05:00

Ah, my cat is studying my artwork. Isn't he sweet?

Just for fun, here are the Wet Ones used during my art making process. The first two sets are in regular colors, then they are photographed using the "vivid" setting.

Scroll down to read the full post.

I did a lot of self-reflection today. It is a practice I used to be more on top of than I have been lately. I believe strongly in the power of self-reflection as a means to stay connected to your inner self. I love to create process-oriented art, then journal write about my process and what things came up for me. Today, however, I sort of did things in reverse. I did the journal writing, then the artwork. The funny thing is, the messages were the same in each exercise. The final message that came through in my artwork was “Truth resides on the inside”. My journal writing revealed that I needed to look inward to find my truth. Interesting, don’t you think? This kind of insight is not surprising to me, however. I firmly believe that these types of writing or art making exercises reveal great wisdom. You just have to stay open enough for the messages to come through. Do you agree? Has this happened for you, too? I’d love to hear your story, or if you’ve posted about this sort of thing on your blog, please leave a link to the post.

Minneapolis Institute of Art

2011-06-13T08:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, my Mom and I went to visit one of our beloved local art museums. We went to the Minneapolis Institute of Art, also known as the MIA. We were taken by so many lovely pieces of art. I got a little excited and photographed a few, but forgot to photograph who created the pieces. I will share them with you anyway. (Note: it is very important to me to give the artist credit for their work, so please forgive my lack of knowledge with these pieces.)
Have a great Monday!

A Butterfly Wing

2011-06-12T07:41:00.000-05:00

I have been really noticing butterflies this past year. I am drawn to them for their color, their "lightness" and "flitting" about, as well as their natural beauty.

Yesterday, my husband and I took another hike at Wild River State Park. He spotted a butterfly wing on the ground next to the path where we were walking. Even though the mosquitoes were CRAZY, we stopped to take this picture. I am so glad we did.

Sending you light, beauty, and fits of inspiration.