GETTING COLOURFUL & CREATIVE. TAP INTO YOUR CREATIVITY.
Hello again everyone, long time no see!
I had my parents visiting from California last week and so I simply had zero time to focus on the blog which is why there was a break. I hope you've all been doing well out there in your own worlds :)
This week I'm going to keep the words fewer and focus more on the imagery. But first, please enjoy this throwback to my formative years. The lovely and ever fabulous Cyndi Lauper singing “True Colors”. I picked this song partially because this week is all about art and colour and that's so Cyndi. I mean, just look at the video! But mostly I chose this song because I'm feeling quite sentimental and a bit emotionally raw after visiting with and then having to say goodbye to my artistic Mother last week. Mama if you're reading, this one's for you. I love you so much you creative soul.
So, I was always a creative kid. And I loved reading. I specifically recall imagining myself as Anne of Green Gables, growing up on Prince Edward Island in another era, and of being wooed by Gilbert Blythe. There were other faves, but she was my ultimate fave.
Basically, I loved all things arts and crafts, and I loved to read and write. And that's about it.
All through my life I've had spells where I stopped checking in with my creative side. Thinking back, whenever I don't touch base with that bit of myself, getting too caught up with phone screens and television screens, I can honestly say that I wasn't as happy at these times as compared to when I'm flying my colorful creative flag and creating things often. Right now I'm flying that creative flag proudly.
In my angsty teen years I would often paint my “blue periods” (Thank you for that term Picasso - so accurate). But later on I began to paint more and more of what I want to see in my life, not just whatever sh*t I was thinking or feeling at that time. Almost painting like a vision board. I have been getting back to this lately. Painting what I want to see.
So keeping this one short and sweet, I just want to encourage anyone out there feeling rather blah, or disheartened, sad, angry, depressed, whatever word that resonates with you. Try getting some paints and brushes, or any materials you're fond of, and get lost in visualising / depicting what you want to bring about for yourself.
For those who feel artistically challenged with paints, or drawing etc., I'd like to encourage you to put on some of your fave music and just make something. Anything. It can be something upcycled. It can involve any craft supplies. Any material. Just get those hands busy. I swear it puts you into what is sometimes called “Flow State”. I consider crafting and creating to be a form of “Active Meditation”. I'm telling you, that you totally end up reconnecting with YOURSELF. That's the best way I can describe it.
Below I've included some of my personal art and craft projects, and an image of Frida Kahlo who happens to be a huge inspiration for me. Be more Frida :)
Okay thanks for stopping by, and have a lovely day or night, wherever in the world you might be.
Tara xx
Bullet Journal Creativity. Visions of being strong and creative.
Acrylic on canvas.
Active Meditation Art & Craft session with Dani of Gallus Makes (formerly Make Kirkintilloch). Upcycled / saved Frida from a bad tee shirt, recycled felt and other materials, and embroidery thread. A quiet creative session for a creative form of active meditation.
Detail of embellished cast-iron lucky horseshoe. Painted, wrapped with crystals and wire and ribbon.
Acrylic on canvas. If I were to title it I'd title it “Searching”.
Upcycled perfume gift boxes. Decoupage using tissue paper, old Alphonse Mucha calendars, Mod Podge, sequins, and glue.
Acrylic on canvas. Untitled. Side Note: looking through all my stuff over the years it appears I've always had a thing with the third eye, energy centres, and chakras? Seem to throw them in everywhere. Should I consider learning more about them? Probably ;)
Another Bullet Journal doodle. There's those chakras again ;)
Upcycled Valentine's Chocolates Box, wine corks, and bottle tops with twine, wire, glue, and tiny aluminum bells. This hangs next to the bar. Homage to all the past drinks we've had. Haha.
One last journal doodle. Had fun with the photo editor. This time there are hearts in place of the chakras. If it isn't to represent what state I'm currently in, I'll sketch to represent what I'm wanting to bring forth for me and around me. In this case giving and receiving good vibes.
Be creative. Be more Frida :)