Nightingale

Nightingale is for those who find themselves in the dark night of the soul. Nightingales are known for their powerful and beautiful song. God gives us a song of hope when we can't see the light of day. The “Envisioning Stage” of a painting intrigues me. This is when I imagine a portrait and create …

Masquerade Mask Decorating for Kids

Painting and decorating masks is a fun and easy activity for kids of all ages. Even my 3-year-old granddaughter can express her creativity with this art activity. Supplies Check out this Mixed Media Mask-Making Essentials list on my Amazon Storefront for products I use. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can …

Artistry Unleashed: Inspiration and Resources for Creatives

Artistry Unleashed is a mini magazine for creatives who want to develop talents and use those talents to make a difference in their world. https://youtube.com/shorts/t0InUQCFk4Y Artistic types in need of encouragement, inspiration, and helpful tips for making art easy, writing flow, or crafting creative. The mini-magazine is an interactive pdf with live links to resources. Preview …

Art Heals the Soul

Listen to the painting paired with the song that inspired her: https://youtube.com/shorts/hiGcKnbdlxw The story behind Deborah Keily Hanson and my collaborative project, Golden Butterfly of Chiang Mai, is so amazing that I wanted to share her account with you: “I was really inspired by your painting of the Rose. I have been dealing with long …

Making Peace with Empty Spaces

“You’d think with two photographers, and one who is also an artist, we’d have something on our walls.” My husband grumbled. 3 years has passed since we bought our home and still no wall décor.  “We’ve both agreed on a wine country theme for the dining room,” I added apologetically, "since we live in wine …

Prioritizing People, Projects, and the Practical

Trying to balance these three essentials can cause consternation for the creative.  We want to be present for people, but not to the point where we don’t have time for our projects.  Projects are important—from home improvements to artistic endeavors. Yet, life can’t just be all about projects at the expense of people. And then …

Time Management for the Creative Change your Mindset

It’s as if the two sides of my brain collide; the artistic, unrestrained, go with the flow crashes against my responsible self.  Do whatever you want whenever you want wars with organize thyself.  Chase after every idea butterfly as opposed to schedule a time to clean your toilet.  Elya loves to paint butterflies! Paint away …

A Divided Heart

I’m a creative with a divided heart, I love writing as much as I love art! “What must it be like,” I muse, “to be single eyed toward one focus? It must be wonderful to concentrate fully on one discipline."  I marvel over other's Instagram profiles filled with a solitary love. My page is checkered with …

Cocoon yourself to Create

Sometimes life circumstances set us aside, and we find ourselves holed up at home: Caring for the sick Helping family Battling illness Managing home-improvement projects ________ (insert your reason here) Our normal running around turns into staying put. I’ve been thinking a lot about how what cocoons us also creates opportunities for art.  "Chrysalis" by …