Inspiration Book

I decided that alot of the small clutter on my studio walls belongs elsewhere.  I had put it on the wall because there's something about each little piece of paper that I like, and I wanted to keep everything out there to inspire me.  Well, that didn't work, it was all too distracting. So distracting that I couldn't think when I wanted to come up with ideas of my own. 

To the rescue -- an Inspiration Book.  I decided to pull all of those little pieces of paper down off the walls and put them in an book where I could go for inspiration whenever I wanted it.  The book (11" x 14" spiral bound mixed meda paper) has the added benefit in that I can save and display more there than on the wall. Side benefit?  It gives me a place to use some of the many roles of washi tape that I have collected...they are inspirational too :)

Looking at it so far, I can see how it will help me identify common themes, colors, etc that "speak" to me.  How do you collect inspiration material and ideas?

New Addition to My Art Collection

I'm so excited and can't wait to hang this painting.  I just bought "Market Day" from artist Brenda Furman.  I LOVE the colors and texture.  They made me say "WOW!!" the first time I saw this and Brenda's other paintings.  She uses such a bright and cheerful palette and her subjects are so lively.  This particular painting was inspired by her daily experiences from the time she lived in Cape Town, South Africa.  Brenda says she has yet to see anything here in the states that compares.  Brenda is a very nice lady with a lovely South African accent.  I love listening to her talk. 

As is the case with most of my art collection, I not only love the piece I have purchased, but I also have fond memories of the artist, and some place and/or time associated with each one.  This one will always bring me joy and remind me of my South African studio neighbor at Art Square Studios.

Packages in the Mail

I love getting little packages in the mail! Today, my order from Cathy McMurray arrived.  I had ordered one of her paintings online through her Etsy shop.  "One Fine Day" is a serene and cheery piece.  It came with a Certificate of Authenticity, a little gift card, thank you note and Cathy's biz card, each was a mini-print of her beautiful artwork. Opening this package was a perfect way to start my day :)

"One Fine Day" by Cathy McMurray