Keep Austin Weird

I just now finished this little collage project for my co-worker, Austin. A few weeks back, we went to Austin Texas for a conference. Austin being in Austin ,Texas was weird in itself - ya know because the signs with "his name" were everywhere. (I was only used to seeing his name on emails and documents!)

I knew I had a collage project in the making - if nothing else, but to to capture the link between his name and his weirdness (just kidding Austin!)

So I'll bring this into the office on Tuesday and hang it on his cube somewhere.

Keep Austin Weird!

Home is where the art is...

An entry for Inspire Me Thursday :-)

Manifesting Change Collage Projects

Art Projects Can CHANGE your LiFe

CoLlaGe is the way I capture ideas. Ideas that remind me of my goals and dreams. It is also the way I capture memories of people I love and care for.

Collage also helps me bring my dreams to reality. Just in the same way dream journaling and goal setting bring about the changes you want to see in your life - certain collage projects do the same, but are infinitely more fun than making my usual lists.

Most of these photos are from my house manifestation collage project. Since I have been searching for a new home and thinking about future property investment goals; I set out to create art that would remind me to stay focused on finding a new home.

So the key to this type of collage project is to keep your thoughts and choices focused on your goals. That way when the project is done it becomes an ongoing reminder of your intentions. My thoughts focused on my love of interesting architecture, brownstone buildings, and city skylines; then it evolved from there.

I prefer to work on canvas instead of paper. I use acrylic paint, new and printed paper, prismacolor metallic pens, gel medium, and a little bit of time. Most of my projects are finished within two days. Occasionally, I will ask one of my kids to help - or vice versa.

So - the result of this particular project?? In under one week's time we discovered our new house and the offer was written up. Lest you think this is something magical - I think not. No, I think it's the powerful combination of being in that artful zone AND focusing on your goals and intentions at the same time.

So this year, as you set your Creative New Year's Resolutions, plan a little Manifesting Change Collage project and see where it leads. Hey you never know!

Be well!

Lise

____________________

Style Points: Creative Weekends In from the Cold!

It's been hovering in the 30's and 40's overnight at my house lately. Though it's perfect power walking weather, I'm not spending much time outdoors when the sun's not shining bright or I'm not VERY active. So, to mark this transition back indoors, I decided I needed to do something creative over the weekend.

I started two collage projects for my kids. I'm not finished yet, but I have one jungle and one ocean theme started. This is the jungle where grandparents peek out at you through bamboo stalks; and an ocean where my two-year old floats with some big, colorful fish. I am planning to add a poem to each canvas. Maybe about jungles and oceans or fish and trees. I love the way a collage seems to draw you in. People stop and stare, hoping to find themselves on the canvas. It's fun, magical almost.

My next project will likely involve beads. I'm debating about whether to make a couple of beaded valances for my daughter's room, or a beaded light fixture for over her tub. Either project will likely add an opulent vintage appeal. These projects are soooo girly and creative, but they give me what I seek in most of my projects... INSTANT GRATIFICATION!!!

So I'm looking forward to seeing YOUR completed projects, whatever they may be.

Be Creative!

Lise

Home Arts Inspiration

I thought I would share a recent email I received from my friend Valarie Jean Bailey. She writes:


Dear Lise Richards

Your Artistic Lifestyling Blog Site is ever so inspiring. The green color scheme of your
graphics is cooling to the eyes and adds tranquility to one's vision.
I especially want to comment on your Family Collage Workshop, it did indeed inspire
me.

I was designing wall pockets for a commission from a NC children's museum, when I came upon your workshop. Using family & friends photos & pix from my backyard bird sanctury, I made the attached wall pocket.

Thank you so much for your wonderful creative & inspiring ideas.

Valarie Jean Art Quiltz

Valarie Jean, you've taken the collage project to a new level. This is amazing!

Thank you for sharing!!

Lise