DeannaMaree

DeannaMaree is Moving!

2010-09-04T21:24:00.003+10:00

Hi there! I have a suprise today - something that I've been in the process of doing for months and months! I have officially moved over to my own domain, onto bigger and better things! As you would know my heart hasn't been here for many months, I've felt my direction changing and it's time to make the offical move! I've valued your friendship, and I hope you will follow me over to http://www.deannamaree.com where I plan to continue blogging, but with much more dedication!

This blog will remain just the way it is - I often look back through my posts and see where my journey has taken me and how my artwork and outlook has evolved over time.

Just before I wrap up here though, I wanted to share this photo! I have been busier than ever before lately, and today I had my first ever stall at the markets!(The Olive Tree Markets). So here we are.. frantically trying to get everything together before opening time!

In progress..

2010-07-11T18:07:00.002+10:00

This is a painting that has put the love back into painting for me lately, it has been a pleasure to sit in front of and mixing up all those colours has been so much fun!

Life goes on..

2010-07-09T11:01:00.004+10:00

A tiny Blue Wren

I was spoilt on our 2nd anniversary.. taken to a little cabin in the woods.

I couldn't decide what I thought of this - cute in a strange kind of way?

Puppy - not such a puppy anymore, but still adorable!

Stay a while longer?

2010-05-01T23:07:00.002+10:00

I know my presence has been lacking here in the last few months, and without giving you a whole lot of reasons and justifications for my absence.. I just wanted to tell you to stick around if you don't mind - I have something much bigger and better than this blog just around the corner. It has been a work in progress for some time, so please don't go anywhere just yet! xx

Iyla

2010-05-01T22:17:00.006+10:00

If you follow me on twitter, you will know I've spent my last month or more (in between long hours at my day job) working on a custom portrait of a little girl named Iyla. The painting is quite large, and was by far the biggest challenge I've taken on at the easel. Ever. I've never met this little girl, yet she reduced me to tears on so many occasions! At last this painting is all boxed up, and is on its journey to Iyla's bedroom wall!

Puppy Feet & Set Me Free!

2010-03-12T17:13:00.011+11:00

Here's one little (and very cute) reason for my absence here lately! I have the pitter-patter of four little demanding feet following me around! We named this little boy Buddy, and we're loving him and his puppy antics.

I have this week away from the office to do a custom portrait of a little girl, and I am loving it. Going back to work full time, and feeling like a caged bird within those grey office walls has given me a whole new level of determination to free myself.

I am very frustrated that I do have to go back to work next week, I know within myself that success for me as an entrepreneur is just around the corner. I can feel it, and it is so frustrating that it is just out of my reach at the moment! I plan to use my frustration as the motivation I need to get things moving - to get my blog re-designed, to dust my Etsy shop off and freshen it up with new work/prints.

If you are a designer, with Wordpress skills (or you know someone) - I'd like to hear from you. It's time for some major changes!

Sandra Juto

2010-02-26T11:35:00.003+11:00

I adore this Granny square blanket by Sandra Juto. And her photostream on flickr - wow!

The moment we've been waiting for!

2010-02-25T20:57:00.008+11:00

Some very exciting news for us girls in Australia today! Anthropologie are now shipping here! I am very excited, and I know you will be too. If you haven't heard of this delightful shop until now, don't wait around here any longer (as much as I like having you).. go check it out!

A little about me - February 2010

2010-02-20T13:29:00.008+11:00

1. This is me. February 2010. In my pyjamas, about to hop into bed

2. This is where I like to go walking. I take my camera here most afternoons

3. This is something I often see.

4. This is where our new house is soon to be built.

5. This is what is sitting on my easel, awaiting some finishing touches!

Blown Away!

2010-02-20T11:59:00.007+11:00

Wowwwww! I don't even know what to say - other than it won't be long before some of Whitney Smith's pottery finds its way to my house! I know I've featured Whitney's etsy shop here before, but I stumbled across her flickr stream today and these images just blew me away! These pieces were part of a huge order Whitney did for a shop in Japan, which I can only imagine is one amazing shop!

Test prints!

2010-02-05T17:50:00.003+11:00

Look! Here's one of my test prints, all framed up! I'm happy with how they're turning out - now I just need to decide on a fancy paper/canvas to print on! I have a whole pack of Hahnemuhle sample papers to play with! I decided today that the standard print size will be 8 x 10 (as opposed to either A4/US Letter size), that way customers worldwide will be able to find a frame easily.

An Update

2010-01-24T15:46:00.007+11:00

Hello there, guess what I've been doing? Lately I've been using every spare moment to work on a complete redesign of my blog. I figured it was time.. I have tossed up many ideas, and I'm still not sure what the end result will be.

I've thought about changing to wordpress, or starting a completely new blog with content that focuses on handmade/indie as a whole rather than my own artwork so much. I'm not sure which way my path is about to take career wise, but if I do keep blogging here under DeannaMaree, a blog makeover is long overdue anyway!

In other news.. I am so close to having prints available! Just in the process of finding the paper/canvas that produces the best print. Also trying to figure out how to make prints available in US letter size, and A4 as well. So keep dropping by, one day in the next couple of weeks I will start releasing prints!

I wanted to share this beautiful artwork with you today, by Jane Hill. I love her work because it combines so many of my favourite things - painting, home decor, flowers, colour, clothes, shoes... Have a look through Jane's portfolio here, or her Etsy shop here.

I'm back!

2010-01-08T22:48:00.006+11:00

Hello, and Happy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a relaxing break. We had a great holiday - travelling north a long way, and spending a lot of time catching up with family and friends. The highlight of my holidays was finally getting that fancy camera I've wanted for so long! This means I am even closer to being able to offer prints of my artwork!

We're back at home now, back to work and life as normal. I've been making the most of daylight savings, and going for evening walks with my camera! We are lucky enough to have a beautiful park/reserve just down the road from our house. There are many winged and legged subjects there that are just to happy to smile for me!

Colors of the Season..

2009-12-09T20:48:00.001+11:00

Minty Fresh!

2009-12-05T17:10:00.002+11:00

I finally got another treasury today! I've had this one ready to go for days.. turns out that a lot of the original items I was going to include were sold.. but I found some perfect substitutes anyway! Check it out here..

New Painting "My Friend.."

2009-12-05T11:25:00.003+11:00

Hi there, and happy Saturday! This time last week I was at my easel - covered in pink and yellow paint! I did this painting for my best friend, for her birthday yesterday - so now she's seen it I can now share it here!

Knock Knocking

2009-12-02T18:28:00.005+11:00

I often hesitate when I go to share something with you here, as I know from time to time different things do the 'rounds' of the blogosphere. The last thing I want to do is be an echo, so when I find something I like I sometimes assume that everyone would already have seen it. But I was thinking today - is this really true? I mean there is so much out there, even within the handmade/indie niche! I'm sure our tracks around this niche are somewhat varied, and I hope that occaisonally I am able to bring something here that is new to you!

Today I'd like to share these beautiful mixed media yarn wreaths by Agnes Blum of Knock Knocking. Most of these photos where taken from Knock Knocking's flickr photstream. You can also check out her Etsy shop and blog. Enjoy!

Happy December!

2009-12-01T20:01:00.008+11:00

Hello there, and happy December! I am sitting here this evening looking out over our neighbourhood which is slowly lighting up with Christmas lights. Such a buzz in the air! I've been munching away on candy canes all afternoon, and I've created a candy cane inspired treasury in Etsy Poster Sketch that I can't wait to share with you! Just have to get myself a treasury again!

Speaking of treasuries, did you see my Teal Appeal treasury on the front page of Etsy on Sunday? I just happened to log in at the right time (how lucky is that?) and I saw it! So happy for the sellers that were featured, and all the sales that they made!

A couple of days ago at work, I spent quite some time signing my name on dozens and dozens of Christmas cards that we send out to our customers. I thought I would put together a little collection of some of my favourites from Etsy. Enjoy!

Holiday Cards - Skate Away by Cathy Nichols

Holiday Tree Card Set by Naokosstoop

Bear and Squirrel Christmas and Holiday Cards by Amber Alexander

Winter Wonderland Greeting Cards by The Nebulous Kingdom

Bunny Art + Fashion = WOW!

2009-11-28T13:12:00.005+11:00

How adorable are these? They are handpainted by Fleur Fenner of NYHop, combining art and fashion to produce amazing one of a kind pieces of clothing. I know what I will be purchasing myself in time for next winter!

I ♥ Lil Fish Studio!

2009-11-27T17:42:00.004+11:00

A little inspiration from Lil Fish Studio's flickr stream. You'll have to click over and see the rest for yourself, but I'm warning.. it will have you engrossed! (So do it anyway!)

Teal Appeal!

2009-11-27T15:26:00.001+11:00

Such a pretty colour! Visit the treasury and leave the featured sellers some clicks here!

Add a Little Sunshine!

2009-11-23T19:42:00.001+11:00

Isn't yellow such a happy, cheerful colour? ♥ Visit the treasury here!

My Next Project?

2009-11-23T19:13:00.003+11:00

Thinking about adding a little touch of playfulness to a room.. time to get the sewing machine out again!

Image: Princesspinestudio

Yes please, I'd like one of them!

2009-11-16T16:53:00.003+11:00

My Etsy Xmas Wishlist in the form of a treasury!

Treasuries

2009-11-12T23:21:00.003+11:00

Autumn Colors. By TheRedPistachio

Avairy or Asylym? By KnotChaCha

Giveaway!

2009-11-04T18:38:00.002+11:00

A little exciting news I wanted to tell you days ago! Vicki over at one of my favourite blogs - Simply Hue, is running a Spotlight on Artists feature. You have to go check out all the talent there, it's a great feature! While you're there though, make sure you leave a comment to be entered in my giveaway! That's right, I will be giving away one of my originals as part of the feature! Go see what you could win here!

A Sunny Spot

2009-11-04T18:29:00.004+11:00

Finally.. time to introduce another new painting! Painting has been such a slow process now that I'm back at work full time, but I've been painting whenever I can. I enjoy the little time I do get to be creative so much more now there is less pressure to create! I could go on about that some more, but right now I'd just like to show you my painting! So here is my latest creation, titled A Sunny Spot and just listed here!

A Happy Place!

2009-11-01T21:42:00.001+11:00

One day when I go on an Etsy spending spree, these are some of the purchases I will make! Visit the treasury here!

Trust the Process

2009-10-28T19:26:00.006+11:00

If you are an artist or creative type, you would probably be familiar with the 'paralyzed with fear' feeling that comes sometimes at even the thought of beginning a creation.

In my post yesterday I asked this question.. "How often do we miss the experiences of the ''journey' because we are so concerned with ending up at the destination?"

I was thinking more about this today, and I realised that it is just the same with our creative journey. Often when we are planning an artwork, we have a vision in our mind of what we want to achieve. We see the colours, the textures and can close our eyes and visualize the artwork as a finished product. We can already see how it will look hanging on that wall, or sitting on that shelf.

We focus so much on this final artwork, and our vision of what it 'will be' that the creative process that actually leads to our vision can easily become daunting! We are overcome with fears that it won't be as we imagined, and we doubt our ability to actually produce what we were able to visualize.

I love this amazing and inspirational post by Ashley at 31 Experiment, and the painting below that inspired her words. In her post Ashley also quotes Julia Cameron on why we struggle to start sometimes.. "Our ego plays this little trick to keep us from getting started. Instead of allowing ourselves a creative journey, we focus on the length of the trip. "It's such a long way, we tell ourselves".

Such a long way, and we're not even sure where we're going, or if we'll even end up where we want to. The reality is, often things don't turn out as we imagined. But I have found when we do trust the process and show up at the easel with our paint and brush, often it turns completely different and perhaps even better than we could have imagined.

As Ashely puts it, "Creativity lies not in the DONE but in the DOING". Such a simple concept, but how easily we forget! Trust the process! Believe in yourself!

Letting Go

2009-10-27T18:12:00.008+11:00

I wonder sometimes, at what I have missed out on experiencing because I have been held back by fear. Undue fear at that. By nature I worry - if there is something to worry about, or even if there isn't - you can always count on me to worry about it!

I learnt a valuable lesson over the weekend. We had an amazingweekend, one of those ones where you don't make any plans and just do whatever seems like a good idea at the time!

Late on Friday afternoon we decided to pack up and go camping. With no real plan in place, and without a map we just drove.. It was well and truly dark when we finally found somewhere to camp. We could hear water running but other than that we had no clues as to what we would find when we woke up in the morning. So, imagine my suprise (and delight) when I sat up and saw this...

How many times do we let fear hold us back? "What if we can't find somewhere to camp? What if we get lost? What if it storms?" So many fears that would normally slow me down and make me think twice. Letting go is sometimes scary, some of us like to be in control.

How often do we miss the experiences of a 'journey' because we are so concerned with ending up at our planned destination? When you take away that destination, when you don't know where it will end - all you have to experience is the journey, and you can be entirely in the moment.

We couldn't find anywhere to camp for quite some time, we did get lost - many times, and it did rain. However while we were lost, we saw some amazing things and found places we would otherwise never have found. We laughed a lot. We slept under the stars, and when the clouds covered us and it started to rain we put a cover over us and snuggled closer.

On My Easel

2009-10-18T21:50:00.003+11:00

Here is another painting in progress! It's a slow progress now I'm back at work, but there is one coming along!

His and Her

2009-10-12T16:40:00.001+11:00

This treasury was actually my husband's idea, titled His and Her.

A Cute Find

2009-10-10T09:41:00.004+11:00

Hello there, look what I found! I thought they were too cute not to share - even on the weekend! These little creations are by gypsy and twink, and there are lots more to be found here!

Shades of Romance

2009-10-08T21:55:00.000+11:00

The sun has set in golden skies, it's a perfect evening for romance..

Something to tell you..

2009-10-06T17:07:00.004+11:00

Hello dear readers.. I have a little sad news today. I've been putting off this moment where I share my latest for too long already. So here it is.. Today, my dreams of making a career out of my artwork have been put on hold, as I started back at a full time office job this morning. There are quite a few reasons why I needed to take the position, I won't go into it all now. It is just a temporary position, but I don't think I will be able to be back here creating full time for a while. I may be able to have Friday's off, and I'll be painting where I can.. in fact, after a day in the office today I just can't wait to be able to sit down at my easel again. I will blog as often as I have time for, so please keep dropping in - Art and handmade is my passion, I won't be going far away!

Looking Forward by Shirae

Dear Mr. Blank Canvas

2009-09-30T11:41:00.003+10:00

You know what? I just did a quick count of all the big blank canvases I have sitting in my studio - there are 19. Can you believe that? Nineteen huge white canvases with a whole lot of nothingness on them. Problem is, for some reason they are freaking me out lately. It's as if they are sitting there threatening me with an artistic failure if I dare touch them with a brush. Can you relate to this feeling! I love this image by Ashley at 31 Experiment.

I know from experience that the only way to break Mr. Blank Canvases power over me, is just to splash some paint at him. Just start somewhere, anywhere..

Through Olive Groves

2009-09-24T14:42:00.004+10:00

I hope you're not too bored with all these treasuries, I really love curating them so they're probably not going to stop popping up here! This one is inspired by that gorgeous olive green. Here's the link!

Courtney Oquist

2009-09-23T23:03:00.004+10:00

Just sharing another one of my 'hearts' tonight, these cute drawings are by Courtney Oquist. I can't stop looking at this little owl, those feathers are adorable!

More Beautiful Treasuries!

2009-09-23T13:43:00.007+10:00

Here are another couple of treasuries I've found my way into!

Thankyou baahar...

and kanokwalee!

Fruitfly Pie

2009-09-21T18:47:00.005+10:00

You might've noticed a little yellow owl down in the corner of my most recently curated treasury. This adorable owl is made by Wendy of Fruitfly Pie. When I finished creating my treasury I had a browse through each of the shops featured, and WOW! I fell in love with many things, but none more than these vintage inspired ceremics, you have to go see for yourself!

Into the woods...Through fields of gold

2009-09-21T18:35:00.002+10:00

I curated another treasury today, titled "Into the woods...Through fields of gold". Here's the link, check it out for yourself!

A little distraction!

2009-09-19T11:51:00.005+10:00

Hi!! I know, I know.. it's a beautiful Saturday afternoon and I should be at the beach, the markets, kickin' back with a good book.. anywhere but here! But I've been a bit distracted lately, I've had a shocker at my easel this week, so I just popped in today to say hello and let you know a little of what I've been doing! Besides trying to figure out the best way to make prints of my work, we've actually been looking at houses - that's right, we're hoping to buy a house soon! I've spent hours collecting decorating inspiration, here some of my flickr favourites. I am hoping that when we do buy, it will be a house that has potential for a little renovation so that I can inject my own style/personality into it. So that's what I've been up to, I will keep you posted! Have a great weekend!

In a Mustard Field

2009-09-16T23:00:00.003+10:00

I made a treasury over at Treasury West today, it's titled "In a Mustard Field". How cute is that little apple cover?

A new addition!

2009-09-16T22:39:00.003+10:00

Hi there.. I'd like to introduce you to my fancy new printer tonight! (It isn't the exact one pictured, but it is the same - I just couldn't wait until tomorrow to take a photo for you!) It's an Epson Stylus Photo R2400, I have been wanting one since forever (so long that there is now a newer model out but shhh..!) This one will be more than perfect, and I'm excited that I'll be able to offer amazing prints of my artwork very soon! I still have quite a few things to sort out, the main issue is being able to offer US Letter sized prints as well as A4. But get excited, it's finally happening!!

Golden Rod and Blue Sky

2009-09-09T17:40:00.002+10:00

I know, I know.. another one, its just so pretty though! Thankyou baahar for the feature, here's the link if you want a better look. I have a thing for that duck egg shade of blue at the moment, more about that later!

"Blueberries for Breakfast" 20 x 30

2009-09-08T23:49:00.003+10:00

Blueberries for Breakfast..warm morning sun - this pair have it all! Available here now! Oh, and I was in such a hurry to photograph it before the sun went down today, I forgot to sign the front! Why is it you only notice little things like this after you've spent an hour making the listing pics?

A Delightful Duo

2009-09-07T00:59:00.003+10:00

I was in the right place at the right time tonight/this morning, and managed to get myself another treasury. I love curating them, I could click through Etsy for hours and hours! Actually that is exactly why I'm still sitting here past 1am. Hello there Monday.. So before I go and shut my eyes for a few hours, here is the link to this treasury, titled "A Delightful Duo", good luck to all the sellers featured!

Red...Meet Blue!

2009-09-02T00:42:00.002+10:00

I managed to snag another treasury tonight! It is titled Red...Meet Blue! It was inspired by my last post here! I'd love for you to visit, and leave some clicks behind!

Spring!

2009-09-01T22:30:00.009+10:00

Loving that it is the first day of spring here! Beautiful warm sunny (longer) days, clear blue skies, flowers, birds, what's not to love? I was trawling through flickr today - looking for new painting inspiration.. I don't know if it had anything to do with the change of season, but I noticed the photos I were adding to my favourites had quite a bit in common..

1. Dogwood Blossoms at Spring Grove 2. Hello Spring

3. Dogwood Blossoms 4. Spring Pink

Purple Berry Breeze

2009-08-31T22:27:00.003+10:00

Hello there.. I'm back! No more holidays for a while either, I have so much to do! Thanks to all the lovely people out there who have supported my dreams by purchasing artwork lately, I now have a very bare shop! There are still a few paintings available, but I've temporarily topped my Etsy shop up with listings titled "custom". I am always interested in doing custom work if you like my style but want something to in a particular colour or size. Here is a custom order I did while I was away, it is going in a bedroom that is dark purple with hints of green. I sent it off to its new home in California today!

Crafty Treasury

2009-08-22T20:11:00.001+10:00

My note cards are included in this crafty treasury, go check it out!

Hello From 'Home'!

2009-08-20T21:35:00.004+10:00

Hello! How are you? As you know I am still on holidays (vacation for some of you!).. I just wanted to pop in give you a little update! I have missed my blog and readers, 1 more week and I will be back posting as usual! I currently have my feet up at my parents place (home), out in the country in South East Queensland. I didn't leave my work behind completely, I packed a few canvases and my paint, and I'm glad I did - I just received a custom order today! The weather is beautiful here - fairly cold at night, but the days are amazing and these photos I've snapped around the garden are evidence that spring is just around the corner!

Another Treasury.. and Holidays!

2009-08-13T11:28:00.002+10:00

Wow! I've never been featured in so many treasuries in a week! Thankyou Bon Bons and More for including my otters in your sweet treasury! I am in such a hurry right now - we are offically on holidays in less than half an hour.. so much to do still! I will be posting here when I have access to, but my blog will be a little quieter for a week or so. I have sold so much original work this week, my shops are looking a bit bare.. so I think I will be spending my holidays painting! I will still take orders in my shops, but just remember I won't be able to ship anything until the 27th of August.

"The First Scents of Spring"

2009-08-10T13:06:00.004+10:00

Another painting - inspired by all of the flower buds starting to open, spring is so close! I fiished this one of Friday, you might have already noticed it listed on Etsy. I can't decide which orientation the painting should be, portrait or landscape? I think I will leave it up to the buyer!

Lovebirds Treasury

2009-08-10T12:53:00.002+10:00

Thanks so much to Fairyfolk for featuring Twilight Lovin' in this wonderful treasury!

It's a Bird's Life!

2009-08-09T14:20:00.007+10:00

I don't normally pop in here on weekends, but last night I was lucky enough to get my first treasury on Etsy - it was sort of by accident actually, I had a little panic when I realised what I'd done! So here it is, or you can visit it here for a closer look!

The sky has turned a brilliant pink, its a perfect evening for romance..♥

2009-08-05T16:19:00.003+10:00

Here is one of what feels like a million things I have been working on lately. A brand new painting - I titled it 'Twilight Lovin' and so far I've listed it on Etsy and MadeIt. I wasn't sure about the pink at first, having never used it much in my pieces, but now its finished I love it!

The Mincing Mockingbird

2009-08-04T22:56:00.008+10:00

A bit more bird love today - what did you expect? I wish I could say these were my own birds - aren't they cute? Theses birds are by The Mincing Mockingbird - go see all the other birds for yourself!

Giving it a Go!

2009-07-31T01:03:00.003+10:00

Just really quick tonight/this morning - somehow 1am has swung by already, and I have managed to come down with some sort of cold so really shouldn't be sitting here with freezing fingers still! I just wanted to say thankyou for all the feedback on my post a couple of days ago - here, and on twitter as well as in the thread I started on Etsy. I took notes of all your suggestions and tallied up each response. The result is - I'm just going to go for it, give it a go! I've been busy drawing and brainstorming quotes - do you have a favourite quote you'd like to see as an illustration? Here is a peek of my latest one - "Stand Tall". Again, sorry it is blurry.. I haven't had time to watermark anything, so blurry it is!

Giveaways!!

2009-07-29T21:35:00.005+10:00

Giveaways!! We all like giveaways, and as much as I wanted to keep these to myself so as not to decrease my chances of winning further - here are links to some giveaways currently happening around blogland. Over at Oh, hello friend: win this cute little dwelling complete with a bird on top and two trees by Petite House.

Then head over to Adelle to help celebrate a blog anniversary with a "Follow Your Heart" print by Paint All Night Studios. (One of my favourite art shops!)

When you're done there.. there is a Stitchface giveaway happening at Automatism.

I would really love to win any one of these giveaways, but I'm sure you would too! Good Luck!

Tell me what you think!

2009-07-28T17:13:00.005+10:00

I have an idea, and I'm going to share it here before I progress any further with it. I need your feedback! Ok here's the deal.. Basically I would really like to be able to offer beautiful high quality prints of my paintings. I get told over and over that people love my work, but can't afford my original artwork at the moment. I would like it if my work was available to everyone. Problem is..I can't afford to buy a fancy new camera and printer at the moment. So I had this idea that I would open a new shop, selling printable illustrations/quotes like these below. They would just be a couple of dollars, and when purchased you recieve a printable file to print yourself as you wish. If just half of my twitter followers bought one print each, there would be my new camera and printer! I know there is a lot to consider.. but what are your thoughts? Would you buy printable? (The illustrations are only blurry as they're low quality, to avoid people printing them straight off my blog).

Summer in Blue

2009-07-24T00:36:00.004+10:00

Look at this treasury.. anything familiar?!

2009-07-22T22:36:00.011+10:00

Tonight I wanted to share with you some of my favourite blogs. I decided to choose just 10 that I really enjoy reading on as soon as I see a new post published! There were so many to choose from, my blog list is always growing - I wanted to share them all, and maybe one day I will.. but for now here are my favourites at the moment! What are some of yours? Oh, and I have to apologize in advance if some of the links don't work properly.. having blogger issues tonight. Fingers crossed they turn out ok when I publish..

Bird Nerd

2009-07-21T20:43:00.005+10:00

Today I'm taking you back to one of the very first Etsy sellers I hearted, and that is the very talented Chelsea of BirdNerd. Chelsea's work inspires me to no end, and if you take a visit to her shop you will see why!

Made It

2009-07-20T22:17:00.003+10:00

I have had a shop on Australian based handmade marketplace MadeIt for months and months, but I don't think I have ever introduced it to my blog. My listings all expired last week, so I have just added some brand new ones of my larger scale paintings. I am in the process of rethinking the shops I have and what they will contain, but for now you can still find me on MadeIt, Artfire and Etsy.

Whitney Smith

2009-07-15T21:55:00.005+10:00

So sweet! These creations are by Whitney Smith. Sometimes my etsy radar functions in a rather delayed manner, and I am suprised when amazing work like this pops up seemingly from nowhere. I can't believe I have only discovered these now, Whitney has even been a featured seller on Etsy before! So this is me catching up .. Wowww!! Look at those birds! Adding to my 'one day when my paintings are walking out the door and I have so much cash I just have to spend it' list. :)

Stepping Away

2009-07-14T22:53:00.006+10:00

At the moment I am taking a step back from my easel (just a little step). Sometimes it just gets to a point where I just feel creatively drained, and I have to step away! There are so many things besides painting I want to try, but painting always takes priority! I don't want painting to become something that I don't look forward to waking up do do, so this week I'm mixing it up a bit! And I tell you.. it has been SO much fun! Today for the first time I had a play with polymer clay - I absolutely love it!! This pear is so tiny and cute, the photo just doesn't capture its cuteness! I have also been making some felt pins.. note the pear theme lately! Tomorrow will be a cushion, and then some Illustrator work and more notecards! At the moment nothing is listed for sale, I'm just playing around.. but in the back of my mind is the thought that I should split my shop into 2. Once just for paintings.. another for things I make just because!

New Painting - "Catch me if you can.."

2009-07-10T15:14:00.003+10:00

This little bird has found his way inside, and really likes the look of those juicy pears!

The Secret Nest

2009-07-07T22:35:00.007+10:00

I have to confess, there is something I so badly want to reveal here.. a very exciting project! But yes - you know it, I can't just yet! Not until things are a little big more certain anyway. You know how it is - as soon as you put something in writing, it falls apart before your eyes! So I've been trying to stop myself spilling anything by posting my 'hearts' here one after the other, I don't think I will ever run out.. but I am going through them rather quickly lately! Ironically I actually stumbled across these gorgeous animals by The Secret Nest while searching with the word 'secret' on Etsy today! Aren't they cute?!

Amy Giacomelli

2009-07-06T20:08:00.006+10:00

There is one very talented artist I have bean meaning to share with you for a long time.. Amy Giacomelli (who paints under the brush name of Natalia Skye) is the very first artist that caught my attention on etsy, and I am still continually inspired by her work - I can be found checking in at any one of her four etsy shops daily! Make sure you have a look at each of her shops, because they each have a slightly different feel/style.

New Painting!

2009-07-04T19:32:00.003+10:00

Just popping in real quick this weekend, to introduce another painting! It is titled "Blue Beauty".. I hope you like it!

Close to the heart - Courage

2009-07-02T19:03:00.003+10:00

As artists, we are familiar with many types of people and many different responses to our work. There are the amazing. supportive people that believe in us to no end, and to them we thank truly. Sadly, on the other hand, we come across some very ignorant people as well. People that believe our days are a breeze, when the truth is we have never worked so hard before. There are disrespectful people that ask whenwe are getting a real job, or if we are looking for work. There are people that tell us we will never make a living out of art, without understanding the real reasons we have chosen to do what we do. There are those who just look away when we explain that we are an artist, as if we don't even deserve their attention. To these people, we also thank. They are the ones that make us more determined to succeed. They make us work even harder, in ways they will never understand. They help us just to believe in ourself regardless of what anyone thinks, and to keep trying. They are the people that give as courage.

Image by Stephanie Fizer

Amber Alexander

2009-07-01T23:07:00.006+10:00

I have been side tracked once again tonight - I love looking at artworks that just make you smile! You may have seen some of these before but I just couldn't resist posting them! These prints are by Amber Alexander, there are so many more in her shop!

Psssst! Amber has a blog as well!

Shop Update Postponed!

2009-07-01T16:23:00.002+10:00

I tweeted earlier that I would have a shop update this afternoon, unfortunately it will have to be tomorrow. There's not enough sunlight left to get good photos today. Here is a peek however.. this painting is huge, one of the biggest I've done. There's still a few little things not quite right, I'll be trying to get it perfect tonight ready for a photoshoot tomorrow in the morning sunlight!

ViolaStudios

2009-06-29T23:18:00.009+10:00

Who would have though that preloved wool sweaters could be turned into creations so adorable? I'm so impressed! These creations are from ViolaStudios, and are made with recycled and repurposed materials. I had a hard time choosing just a few to blog - so make sure you visit the shop to see all the other cute creatures!

The Nebulous Kingdom

2009-06-25T23:01:00.009+10:00

Anne-Julie of The Nebulous Kingdom is having a birthday sale at the moment. Prints are only $15, and if you buy 2 you will get a 3rd print free! Anee-Julie's work is amazing! Have a look at her blog as well!

Delight in the Day - Tea

2009-06-24T22:52:00.006+10:00

One of the very first things that stirs my senses every day is a nice warm cup of tea. Every morning while my computer is starting up I go downstairs to the kitchen, and always come back up to start my day with one of three types of tea. Ginger tea, green tea or peach flavoured green tea. I'm sure most of you have a cup of tea on a daily basis, does it stir your senses? The aroma, the warmth and that wonderful combination of flavours that leaves you feeling so refreshed? And its so healthy.. think of all those antioxidents! These illustrations by Aline of yumiyumi capture so perfectly just what delight a simple cup of tea brings to my day. Aren't they gorgeous?

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-23T22:21:00.002+10:00

After a few weeks away from my easel.. I am excited to introduce another little birdie to the collection! I've just listed him on Etsy, and soon Artfire. I really enjoyed painting him, and I have another HUGE canvas all prepared for something special. Give me a few days.. and I may be introducing that one too!

Hang in there..

2009-06-20T00:09:00.002+10:00

Gonna be alright by Prettyfnmess

Cathy Nichols

2009-06-17T23:15:00.003+10:00

There are so many artists I admire, and would love to share with you. Just when I think I am getting through them, I discover another handful of talent! I don't think I will ever run out of 'hearts' to share! These paintings are by Cathy Nichols - I have been following her work for quite a while now, and always love checking back in her Etsy shop for new work. Psssst.. Cathy has a blog as well!

Thousand Birdies

2009-06-11T10:51:00.003+10:00

I have been hoping to get a blog redesign done for some time now, I'm getting more and more unhappy with my blog lately and I don't really have the time to play around with it. I discovered a blog revamp competition called Thousand Birdies Giveaway on Gisele Jaquenod's blog today! I love Gisele's work and would be so happy to win a revamp! You can enter too, just visit her blog for conditions!

Delight in the Day

2009-06-11T00:47:00.009+10:00

Every day is a gift, yet so often the miracle of each day is taken forgranted. We all know we aren’t here forever, yet somehow we feel as though we have forever – that our last day is somewhere so far in the future. We go about life from day to day, week to week, and year to year and we are always looking to the future. We tell ourselves that things will be better tomorrow, or next week, that things will improve if only I we had this, or could do that.. it will be better when this or when that happens – sound familiar? Sadly, so often we forget the miracle that today is.

From time to time, we all need reminding that life is a miracle. Our planet is a miracle. Our senses – seeing, hearing, touching, smelling, tasting – each sense is a miracle! Lets engage our senses!

Lets appreciate the little things, those simple delights in life, little indulgences things that make us feel warm inside.

A scented hot bath

A good book or favourite magazine

Wooly socks

Summer dresses

The smell of baking in the oven

A tea party

A cosy fireplace

A vase of flowers

A box of delicious chocolates

Glamorous high heels

A massage

Freshly laundered linen

Moist, dark chocolate brownies

A candlelit dinner

Home made iced tea

A swing under a leafy tree

A picnic

Hot towels

Favourite perfume

I would like to explore these every day delights with you, not so much in words, but in images, art, recipes, people, tutorials, videos – as part of an ongoing feature here at my blog. I want you to be involved, so take the time to write to me, or comment. I read every comment – so share things that bring about this sort delight in you, send me your links, poems, recipes, colours, photos – whatever it is that stirs your senses. Please welcome.. Delight in the Day!

Images

1. Don't wait Until Tomorrow by Dazeychic

2. The Little Things by LuckyBlueBirdArt

3. Enjoy the Ride by Dazeychic

1000 Twitter followers ~FREE SHIPPING~ 48 Hours!

2009-06-09T17:39:00.002+10:00

Hello! I recently reached 1000 twitter followers, and as a thankyou to all the tweets following me (or going to follow me) I am having a Free Shipping SALE! For 48 hours, you can purchase anything from my shop and I will ship it to you absolutely free. The only condition is, you must be following, or follow me here. The sale will end 5.30pm Thursday AEST! If you've been considering a painting purchase, now is a perfect time!

Misako Mimoko

2009-06-09T12:10:00.007+10:00

These little dolls are by Eva from Misako Mimoko. I have been a fan of Misako Mimoko for a while now, and I regularly visit Eva's wonderful blog. Her shop has recently been updated - sadly the first two dolls pictured here are already sold (I just love them), but there are many more to choose from! Why not take a peek?!

Black and White

2009-06-04T14:10:00.003+10:00

Thankyou Euphorianchic for featuring my cards in this black and white treasury! I have had visitors coming and going all week, so there has been quite a lack of paint being splashed around! I have visitors until Monday, and then more later next week. I'm not sure whether working from home is a good or bad thing at the moment!

Lets Help a Girl Out!

2009-06-02T13:37:00.005+10:00

Jess from Vol25 has launched a big sale in her Etsy shop today, in hope of raising some money to replace her camera that she lost a couple of weeks ago. Jess has so many great prints in her shop.. head on over and check it out! You can also visit her blog here!

"My Favourite Spot" - Bird and Magnolia Painting

2009-05-30T22:52:00.004+10:00

Today we had some sunlight briefly.. I was able to snap some better photos. Hope you're having a great weekend!

Another Painting!

2009-05-28T22:05:00.003+10:00

I wasn't going to show you this painting until I finally had a nice sunny day to take photos - but I just can't help myself! I love hearing what you have to say, either here or on twitter.. all the comments are really inspiring! This painting is quite large put together, and I've made it so that it can either be split into two paintings or made into one like below. I really love this one, (I don't often fall in love with my own paintings!).. I'm not sure if I want it to leave! Now lets hope for sun and beautiful photos tomorrow (its raining as I type) - can it really stay dark for over two weeks?

Middleburg Sculptures

2009-05-27T15:18:00.006+10:00

Hello! Just wanted to share another one of my 'hearts' today. These wonderful sculptures are by Middleburg and I think this tree full of birds has inspired me - I have been thinking about it for days, maybe this weekend I'll make some paper mache birds of my own. I have a sculpture technique of my own that I'd like to write a tutorial for - maybe this weekend I'll have some time out from painting and make something different!

And here it is..

2009-05-26T17:03:00.003+10:00

Just listed - A special for my blog readers. Free shipping within Australia on this painting, just send me a convo through Etsy with your location and quote "Blog Special" for an adjusted listing.

New Painting Preview - "Keeping her company"

2009-05-25T16:19:00.002+10:00

I can't believe the sun is still hiding! And not just that - the sky is so, so grey it is pretty much impossible to photograph artwork! So no listing today, but so you could get some idea.. here is the best pic I could get this afternoon. It is titled "Keeping her company" and this photo really does nothing for the painting!

A brand new week!

2009-05-25T11:08:00.003+10:00

Good Monday morning to you! I hope you had a great weekend if you've had it- I know many of my blog readers are on the other side of the world and are still enjoying a lazy Sunday - and many have a holiday tomorrow also! I am about to finish off a painting, and hopefully will have enough sunlight this afternoon to photograph it. Visit back in a few hours if you're interested in a new painting listing! This morning, another one of my cushions has been included in another gorgeous treasury! Thankyou beadeliciousbaby! I'm off to create!

Rain and Red Umbrellas

2009-05-23T00:04:00.004+10:00

Can you hear rain on your roof right at this moment? Many people in Australia have seen a lot of rain this week and are hoping the sun comes out again soon! I love the rain - I sit at my easel in front of a heater and listen to it on the roof, or watch the birds play in it out in my backyard. My biggest complaint with all this grey weather, is that I haven't been able to photograph my work for days which is a bit frustrating, because I do like to share! So while I have no real reason to complain now, I did live in the city just a year ago and remember some of the hassles that heavy rain would bring in the city, especially commuting to and from work. I used to walk to work from the train in Brisbane, and when it rained I was always amused by the sea of umbrellas that would seemingly appear out of nowhere. It would make me smile every time, like little lemmings they would pop up all around, sometimes there were so many, that if you happened to get caught in a shower without one of your own you could just duck from umbrella to umrella without really getting wet anyway! I'm not sure why, maybe because they were most readily available, but most of the umbrellas were black.. and I used to wish that there were some prettier colours to brighten up those dark, grey days. Enjoy these beautiful red umrella artworks, and have a happy weekend!

White Ocean by Naokosstoop

Red Umbrella by Carambatack

Girl in the Rain Print by TheLittleMushroom

VENTO by Dilkabear

Terrarium Ornaments!

2009-05-21T21:42:00.006+10:00

I'm sure by now you have noticed the terrarium trend. The amazing little indoor gardens have been blogged about a lot, and you can find many of them complete and for sale on etsy. I have been thinking about making one, there are so many tutorials out there and you really don't need many supplies. I have a lovely round glass bowl picked out.. and the fun part is thinking about what I want to put in it! There are so many cute little ornaments, here are some of my favourites!

Spring Snails by JooJoo

Signature Red Mushroom Pair by Craftsty

Cactus and minature pots by JooJoo

Wee Gnome and Bird. Forest Friends by Humblebea

Little White Pear Fruit by Fanciful Form

Little Red White Ceramic Clay Mushroom - Tall Toadstool by TheLittleRedDoor

G. Sakowski Designs - WOW!

2009-05-20T22:40:00.004+10:00

Sometimes when I see something very cute, or something I really, really love.. it hurts! Do you know the feeling? I am so fascinated by these amazing scarves at the moment. I love scarves, I wear one most days, sometimes I forget to take it off before crawling into bed. Just look at all the gorgeous things by G. Sakowski Designs. I think I will have to invest in one of these scarves sometime in the near future, I am in love. The only problem is.. I don't think I could choose just one! Wow!

I am reading..

2009-05-20T14:35:00.002+10:00

I have one wonderful husband, who knows just how to keep me happy! I am now receiving three of these magazines in my mailbox. One a while ago, and a couple more this month.. and the fourth didn't turn up in my mailbox, but just happened to find its way into my groceries yesterday. But because my husband is so wonderful, I'm sure if he's reading this he won't mind that this did occur. Wonderful husbands understand that these things happen from time to time. xx

An Update

2009-05-19T22:39:00.013+10:00

I'm back! I missed blogging and I have a bit of catching up to do! First I'd like to share some of my creations from the past week. The weather hasn't been so great for taking photos and I know its annoying that this photo is split in two, but I thought if I did that you might be able to see them a bit better. I have a few of these cushions/pillows listed, and maybe one more to list tonight. The others will have to wait until the sun gives me a few minutes to get some etsy worthy photos.

Then there was our anniversary weekend. We went exploring the beautiful coastline just a couple of hours from home. The weather was amazing and some of the places we found were incredible. I like to go where most people wouldn't go - not always the safest option - climbing around cliffs, and crawling through forests but it's always so worth it!

And finally tonight, I wanted to share a photo that I felt was a little milestone. A packaging/shipping table. It may not look that exciting, but the fact is that I had enough reasons to create one. I hope that things keep going well and it can become a more permanent fixture!

Warming Up With Red Treasury

2009-05-18T14:58:00.002+10:00

Hello there! My internet connection is still very slow but I really wanted to share this treasury with you! There was another one I wanted to share as well, but I forgot to get a screen shot of it before it expired. But I managed to get this one, and thankyou Euphorian Chic for including my cushion in this wonderful treasury!

My absence

2009-05-12T18:46:00.003+10:00

I currently have a paaaainfully slow internet connection as a result of a little too much downloading this month. It has taken too long just to get far enough to let you know that much, so I won't be trying to post any photos tonight, noway! At this rate, I won't be back blogging until next Tuesday, unless I manage to find my husbands work computer unattended for a few minutes sometime. It is out first wedding anniversary this weekend, and it is my turn to organise a weekend away. I haven't entirely suceeded in keeping everything to myself, but he doesn't know where we're going, or where we're staying yet. Thats about all from me right now, I hope this much makes it to my blog.. See you next week!

The weekend is here!

2009-05-08T22:48:00.002+10:00

Today has been filled with cutting, lots and lots of cutting. I have a lot of cushions in creation. The one I made a couple of weeks ago has been commented about probably more than any of my other work. I can only assume it hasn't found a new home yet because we all like to have a choice - nobody wants to buy just one lonely cushion.. so I am busy creating the rest of the set that goes with it. Here are lots of birdie bits and pieces.

It has been a busy day, busy week - my most successful week as an artist yet. I am enjoying this journey and I hope it continues to be more and more successful! I am continually amazed at the connections I make daily with people on the other side of the world, and encouraged by all the support out there. I'm glad the weekend is here, I am going to force myself to step away from the art/craft that has become my life and spend some time well, stocking up on supplies! Seems there is no escape! Have a great weekend!