Gumball Grenade

Whew! Things to be done today!

2011-02-13T09:16:00.001-08:00

I still love my Sundays! Coffee, lovely blogs, shop updates and making stuff! Little S and I have a bow holder to finish up. I have some boxes and journals/sketchbooks to finish as well. I've saved some aside for the wee ones to decorate along with me. YAY!

Gumball Grenade goes public! and a Shop Update too!

2011-02-06T09:20:00.000-08:00

Ha ha! Not that public, but you can now find Gumball Grenade designs in Little Cherry Blossoms boutique down on Historic 25th street, Ogden, UT.

However this morning was a SHOP UPDATE morning! Additional Post cards and Keepsake Boxes now available in the shop! However, be sure to swing by the Gumball Grenade Facebook Page, give it a like and get a free gift with your purchase!

Valentine Postcards! And other wee goodies!

2011-01-19T13:56:00.000-08:00

SHOP UPDATE TODAY! Finally got a minute to catch my breath and add some new little items to the shop today. The postcards are available for reserve and will ship out on February 1st! They are so lovely with wee fancy rounded corners! All arrrrrgh available in the shop www.gumballgrenade.etsy.com

"For Us to Share"

2010-11-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Universe has a lot to offer up. What a shame it would be to not have someone to share it with. When I look at my wee ones play together, they offer up tiny glimpses into how strong their little bond has become. When my two little ones gaze up to the sky I hope they realize that not only is the Universe for them to take on, with full force and gusto, but more importantly it's for them to share. This little 5 x 7 canvas should be available for sale in my little Gumball Grenade shop in just a few days! I hope to make an illustration out of it as well! Can't part with it until then!

Dear Creativity, where have you been? It's Been Too Long!

2010-08-14T11:06:00.001-07:00

In the last year I had to go from being a stay at home mom of two beautiful wee ones, to moving out of my house, to moving back into my house, to working full time, to adjusting to having my kids in day care, and having many long awaited adventures with one's I love more than I can explain. My art space is now semi-functional, with things in bags and boxes, some here some over there, but my creative side just couldn't take it anymore! A favorite spot for spurring on my creative bug has long been illustrationfriday.com.

So I took a peek over there for the topic which was fittingly enough "Star Gazing" Couldn't resist. Here's the initial shaded sketch! Halloween is coming and I couldn't resist! The best step of adding color is next. I'm hoping to get that done before heading out to Craft Lake City! Beyond excited for that! I hear they'll be showing Handmade Nation there as well! Sunday, I believe. A GIANT dose of creativity. I'll share pics of that event too! And the ever so sweet and talented Isabell's Umbrella will be there too!

Flight of Fancy Treasury

2010-01-12T06:30:00.001-08:00

A very cute and whimsical treasury which includes my illustration "My Paper Airplane". It was put together by fifthquadrant over on etsy! Thanks! Who doesn't want to hop on a plane and take off to somewhere new and exotic. It's an urge I fight hourly, but I'm appeased with the knowledge that there is time...plenty of time for more great adventures!

Full of Thanks!

2009-11-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

The last six months have turned my world completely around. Full of struggles, but in the end so very full of LOVE and LIFE. LOVE and LIFE in all it's complexities and imperfections is what it's all about! I'm truly thankful!

3 is such a good number!

2009-11-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

I've just made it possible for my collectors to pick out any three prints of their liking! Even better is that it comes with a bit of a price break! woot! Gotta love that.

Gumball Grenade 2009 Holiday Packaging!

2009-11-04T04:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a whirlwind of flying paper, rubber scraps, ribbon and ink. I'm getting ramped up for the holiday season. Whew! I love how some things can be energizing! Those are the things in life to focus on. If it revs you up then keep doing it. I revamped my stamp for my mailers, made up some new hang tags, and have more business cards, cello sleeves, and backing board on it's way. Gotta make sure those prints arrive safe and sound, and in perfect condition.

Hope Everyone Had a Fantastic Halloween!

2009-11-01T06:20:00.000-08:00

I've been neglecting my blog, but for good reason...LIFE! It sneaks up and takes you by surprise. Surprises are good and change is even better! As of this morning I'm officially all ramped up for the upcomming Holiday Season. I even have some cute holiday themed illustrations in the works. So until then here's a little picture from Halloween!

We Are...STRONG project!

2009-08-25T02:47:00.000-07:00

I've been away for so long, but I'm thrilled to let you all know that for the month of September I'll be participaing in Yaelfran's We Are....Project.

SEPTEMBER'S ISSUE: 16 PAGES!!!!!!!!"WE ARE..." is a monthly publication, that showcases Etsy's artists illustrations in black for you to paint or just to keep as they are. Every month we will featuring a group of 10 illustrators who will showcase their interpretation of a different theme. For August, we have... "HAPPY" , for September we have... "STRONG".This publication is printed on 250 gr paper, with professional printer. Its size is 4 x 6 inches closed. A very sweet size that gives you the possibility to take it with you in your bag, wallet, pocket, etc.You can also separate their pages (by trimming them carefully) and have different and gorgeous postcards!!!!

Here are the participants for this month:

Corid

Gumballgrenade

Christinaromeo

Lertsis

Thisisalliknow

ZukzukBadbird

Seasprayblue

Marmeecraft

Restlessthings

Essimar

Jessgonacha

Laurageorge

Yumiyumi

Kwilson544

Yaelfran

(By Holly Becker) "... I was telling a friend back a few years ago that what the indie craft world really needs is a coloring book for kids designed by artists, each page from a different talent, all pages inspiring and fun... I think kids can use a little diversity and exposing them to the art community at an early age is a good idea. Plus, they can color it so it's fun and interactive, developing their creativity. Though my coloring book idea didn't go beyond my desk, I'm suddenly spotting a trend - artists coloring books are slowly popping up in the independent craft communities online and I'm loving it!"

Free Gumball Grenade Download Over at IndieFixx.com

2009-07-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note here to let you know that Jen over at IndieFixx.com has released new Feed You Soul art prints for download! This is such a great project and includes several of my favorite artists. I'm thrilled to have been invited to participate! So anyway here is the link where you can download a new Gumball Grenade art print to feed your soul! Oooh! Also be sure to read the "When they Were Kids" interview with the beautiful Elsita Mora!

Art is the stored honey of the human soul, gathered on wings of misery and travail.

~Theodore Dreiser

Sweet Little Art Pins!

2009-07-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

Real quickly here are some of the latest additions to the Gumball Grenade shop. Cute little shrink plastic pins! Yay! So I just got back from beautiful California and made a visit to the amazing Renegade Craft Show. I went to the show with the intent to preview the event and see if it's something I'd like to participate in. I have to say I was impressed! Lot's of impressive artists showcased some amazing items and some displayed work created using really interesting techniques. Some favorite Etsy sellers were there such as Mary Ink and Berkley Illustration. Another seller was quite innovative with an image transfer process he developed and used to print his graphic art on to leather! I was amazed! So much creativity in one place lots of good energy. Anyway, enough of my rambling!

Randomness! I'm not so sure.

2009-07-15T19:12:00.003-07:00

Lots of really unexpected and oh so wonderfully coincidental things have happened in the last couple weeks that have caused me to wonder if life really is all that random afterall. Hmmmm, I think there are greater forces at work in this universe. Anyway, I'm a little late on announcing the winner of the Fourth of July contest! But the results from Random.org are shown above! Congrats!

Flights of Fancy on the Fourth...Oh and Free Shipping!

2009-07-04T06:51:00.000-07:00

Yay! It's the Fourth of July. I've heard it said that "I'm flawed if I'm not free." So true! I love that today is a celebration of independence. I imagine the little soul in the illustration above is crying "freedom!" as he takes off on a grand adventure. On other things I've heard...every year while watching fireworks I'm amused by what little children say. This year the cutest thing I've heard so far this year is, "Why is it making magic in the road?" So here's wishing everybody a little magic in the road and in the spirit of celebration you'll find FREE SHIPPING on all items in my Gumball Grenade shop! Also, be sure to enter to win a free Gumball Grenade print of your choice! To enter simply visit my shop and leave a comment telling which print you'd like. Contest ends July 10th. Winner will be selected by Random.org and announced on July 11th! Happy Fourth!

Treasury by Teacup Elephant

2009-07-02T13:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Teacup Elephant for featuring my print in her "Stars and Stripes" treasury! Very patriotic! Temporary link: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=68494

Sundaes in Las Vegas

2009-06-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

Just got back from Vegas and had an amazing time! Just when you think things are the way they are in your little corner of the world little coincidences and surprises give you some insight into your life. This trip was full of those little moments. I had the opportunity to try some new things like asparagus...yummy! Heard some really bad jokes...gross. Got caught in a rainstorm (loved it). Saw a fun show. Had the best time people watching and wandering with my favorite mischief maker ever! At one point my partner in crime pointed out a rather sad and sickly looking man, who was sitting by himself enjoying an ice cream sundae. My partner in crime mentioned how sad this man looked and I was struck with how you can be completely surrounded by people and be so alone. There was slight comfort seeing how much he was enjoying his sundae. It was clearly the highlight of this man's day. It made me even more grateful that I had an accomplice in all things mischief. Well, just as this little man scraped his last bite from the sides of his cup, he was struck by the inevitable brain freeze that follows a delicious sundae. This poor man just squoze his hands to his head and placed his head on the table and waited out the pain. You almost wanted to pat him on the back and let him know it would all be okay. It was hard to watch. In my world he would have skipped away on a quest to find the greatest ice cream shop in all of Las Vegas and along the way he would have discovered someone to skip down the boulevard with him.

Fables and Foxes Flip Doll

2009-06-17T05:56:00.000-07:00

So I finally finished up this little owl art doll! She's actually two dolls in one. Her dress reverses to reveal another doll! You can see additional pics here on my Fables and Foxes Blog.

More Fables and Foxes Related Fun!

2009-06-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

I spent a majority of this weekend working on this new folk art doll or whimsical sculpture. I still need to finish up some of the final details but it's coming together nicely! I just realized how stern fox looks! You'd almost think she was for a mug shot!

Unfold Illustration Friday and Fables and Foxes Shop

2009-06-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

So I did this illustration for my other shop: Fables and Foxes but I figured I'd share it here for my gumball readers as well :) She calls out to be sculpted.

First Little Gumball Grenade Art Doll

2009-06-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

Here is his. He's little but cute! Sculpted with polymer and hand painted. He measures 3 and 3/4 inch from top to bottom of base. He's currently available my Gumball Grenade shop! here

First Gumball Grenade Face Sculpture!

2009-06-11T08:24:00.000-07:00

Here is the face I've come up with for my Gumball Grenade sculptures and art dolls. It had to be innocent and sweet. Hopefully he is! The star on his cap still needs to be added but he doesn't mind being photographed without it.

Folk Art Doll Face

2009-06-11T06:50:00.000-07:00

Last night while I was waiting for paint to dry on my lion, I decided to sculpt a little folk art doll face and put a dress together. I still need to add the body, legs, and paint. I actually had to sculpt and paint her face prior to sculpting her head and hair. Weird but it helped me visualize her a bit more clearly.

Also, for those who collect my Gumball Grenade prints, there are some whimsical sculptures brewing! You see in my illustrations I rarely show a face. Most of my illustrations are shared in little bedrooms and baby nurseries. They are designed for magical thinkers only! I like for the viewer to place themselves into the viewpoint of my little souls, gazing up to the sky and remembering when, or thinking and dreaming "If!" So I was a bit stagnant when it came to sculpting because I had to find the right face to finally show! I sculpted a little face last night, but haven't had a chance to see it with paint yet. I'll paint it today and share a peek at it later! I hope to have several Gumball Grenade sculptures to offer this upcoming Holiday season! I'm so excited!

A Guardian Folk Art Doll

2009-06-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

Last night I couldn't resist making this sweet fox. She's holding a red cardinal in a protective way. Don't worry she doesn't intend to eat it! She guarding it from other dangers. She's keeping it safe from other dangers she knows too much of.

She's just as high as my bear and I must say they look like they walked out of the same forest when standing side by side. Here she is.

Bear Folk Art Doll Sculpture

2009-06-09T16:12:00.001-07:00

So as you can see I've had sweet little bears on the mind and maybe a little bit of Little Red Riding Hood as well! You see a while ago I signed up for a cloth and clay doll workshop taught by the extremely talented Jane DeRosier. I have such a love for folk art dolls and thought that it would be a great way to get started. Well I'm more than embarrassed to admit that even with a mom who teaches and sells sewing machines I still have not had the time to learn how to sew! But today I just felt the need to make some kind of folk art doll so I ran downstairs to find my paper clay and get started. I was set on making a doll even if I had to hand sew every little stitch. Well you know how it goes, when you need something you can't find it. I ran downstairs to take advantage of my time and began rummaging through the various piles, corners, and drawers. I couldn't find it! Determined to complete the mission I settled and grabbed my box of old polymer clay. Either it will work or it won't I thought to myself.

Well here's the end result! Her name is "Sorrow" in conjunction with the theme over at Cloth and Clay Dolls. Can you believe that she is the first sculpture I've done in over a year! I couldn't believe how she turned out! When I compare her to some previous paper clay dolls I made I am shocked with the difference. I'm glad I followed this nagging need to sculpt and took the time to do it. Creating her has definitely encouraged me to keep sculpting and add more of these folk art dolls / sculptures to my Fables and Foxes etsy shop.

Oh I should mention her details: She's sculpted out of polymer clay and painted using acrylic paints. She stands just slightly under 7 inches tall and has been antiqued and distressed to give her that folk art feel.

I also thought I'd add in this photo so you could see her prior to painting:

Don't Forget!

2009-06-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

To add a bit of color today!

Craving Illustration Friday

2009-06-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's been far too long since I last participated! I couldn't resist so here is my submission for this weeks Illustration Friday! I've had coffee, tea, honey and cakes on the mind lately. Some cravings however, can be quite dangerous. This illustration is a pencil sketch that has been digitally colored.

Saturday Sings Sweetly to Me!

2009-06-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

So a while back a lovely person shared this song with me and asked if it influenced my work. Unfortunately I had never heard the song before. It's a very melodic and sweet song called "Boats and Birds" by Gregory and the Hawk. I don't think this you tube video was created by Gregory and the Hawk but it's pleasant to watch and let's me share the song with you! So here's a sweet song for you this springly Saturday morning.

Two New Illustrations Added to Gumball Grenade

2009-06-05T07:56:00.001-07:00

So here are two of my latest illustrations added to the Gumball Grenade Etsy shop yesterday evening! The top one is titled "Things Left Behind" the second is "Stay the Course." There is a third one that will be posted soon as well! Oh and I did get a minute to add a listing to Ebay as well! Click here

Ankle Case and Neko Case

2009-06-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit remiss in my blogging lately. I went in for my second set of x rays on my ankle and it was determined that it was fractured (broken). They want me to go see an orthopedic doctor and they'll determine how much longer I have to wear the large black brace or if I need a cast! Oh I hope I don't need a cast! I have a trip planned to go to Vegas with some girlfriends and can't imagine going to sweltering Vegas entombed in a cast! So fingers crossed until Monday.

A side story on the black brace...I went on a very sweet date to an outdoor concert performed by Neko Case last Sunday! It was wonderful. I played hookie from wearing my brace. I just figured that walking around with it would be uncomfortable, and sitting on the garden lawn would be even more uncomfortable! It gets quite crammed with open outdoor seating. Well as I was people watching I saw another concert attendee wearing the same brace on the opposite leg. Instant guilt set in over not wearing mine, but I didn't want to be shackled on such a nice night! Anyway the night was perfect and I don't think skipping the brace had too much of an impact on the healing process.

Alright enough about my ankle issues... here's an update on more uplifting topics! I have some art boxes left over from a recent show that I'm probably going to list on Ebay tonight. Those will go up along with some miniature originals (also called ACEO's) seen in the photo above! I'm hoping to get them all listed tonight! Until then enjoy the pics!

Also, on the first I sent over my illustration to Jen at InidieFixx.com for her wonderful Feed Your Soul art project. Such an amazing project to have been invited to participate in! It will be available for download for FREE in July! Yay for free art in a down economy! By then I'll have some new prints to go along with it listed in my shop: Gumball Grenade

A Sweet Red and White Etsy Treasury

2009-05-24T09:24:00.000-07:00

I love the burst of red! This treasury was created by ValeriaH (who has some stunning photographs in her shop might I add). Tresury link while its avail: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=59990

Accidents Happen

2009-05-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

I fell down the stairs. Um, I was moving a couch. I missed about three steps and landed on my left ankle with the weight of the couch. POP! So now I'm wearing a big black clunky brace and have put additional dents in the walls and furniture lugging this brace around!

Gumball Grenade's First Movable Art!

2009-04-15T15:35:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited to share this. It's a cute little puppet theater that I made! The first of it's kind for me and definitely not the last! It's made of wood, paper, digital artwork, plastic, string, and lots and lots of labor! The little tag has the faded word "Bloom" on it and even sweet little Bethezda the cat makes a brief showing now and again. I've absolutely fallen in love with automata and puppetry. What got me thinking about this was a series of things which just built on each other. The first was my love of papercutting, then I started exploring animation and watching some of the old silhouette animated movies. Then I was further intrigued when an episode of Make featured an artist's collective named the Lotus Girls. They had a demonstration of some of their pieces which were these huge fire emitting metal sculptures. It wasn't just the mechanics of it all that left me awe struck, but also the idea that viewer manipulation of the piece was an essential part of their art. There is definitely something striking in that. At the same time I did some research and discovered some wonderful books that explored the world of automata and there you have it. I've made it available in my Gumball Grenade Shop!

Also, don't forget to enter the giveaway for the Cuddles Pin here.

Art Boxes Galore!

2009-04-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

So I'm still getting ramped up for the upcoming show and I'll be taking a bunch of these wonderfully charming, little art boxes! This is just a small sampling of what I've been working on. They're quite time consuming but well worth the end result. Have a lookie! As time permits I'll be adding them to the Gumball Grenade shop and what's left goes to the show!

...So I just checked in on the one's I just listed and saw that one box had 97 views! I said "This is a mistake. There's no way." Then I checked the front page of Etsy.com and to my delight saw this:

Easter Holiday Giveaway!

2009-04-12T10:24:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter! I hope you are all having a nice Easter morning! I've been overwhelmingly busy making up new items for the shop and for a show coming up at the end of April. However, I need to catch up with you all and announce the next giveaway! The winner of the March giveaway was number 12 (Candy).

Details: Made of shrink plastic and sealed with an acrylic sealer. Not to be submerged in water :) Nickle Pin Back. Approximate Dimensions: 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) wide X 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)long **NOT Intended for Children**

To win this sweet little pin simply visit my Gumball Grenade shop then return to this post and leave a comment regarding something in my shop! Simple! Winner will be selected with Random.org and entries close on April 30th! Enjoy your day!

Decorated Moleskine Journals Added to the Shop!

2009-03-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

I just thought I do a quick post to let you all know that I've added some new moleskine journals to my Gumball Grenade shop today! Each of these is decorated with an image transfer of one of my illustrations and then hand painted details are added! Signed and sealed! I was a little worried I wouldn't get a chance to share them because it's been snowing all morning long! Finally, there was a break in the gloomy weather which allowed me just enough time to get them photographed and listed.

I've been missing in action!

2009-03-28T17:40:00.000-07:00

Although I've posted very scarcely in the last week, I've been working on lots! First, I've been getting ready for a couple of local shows here in good old Utah! I've made quite a few pins and booklets/journals with some new techniques that I'm very pleased with. Second, I've been working on a commissioned piece that I have absolutely fallen in love with. It's going to be soooo hard to part with! It's one of my first paintings with a hot air balloon and I've wanted to incorporate them for soooo long. Second, it has a narwhal spouting hearts! So here are some in progress pics of this 11 x 14 inch painting. However, the banner is not finished! I'm waiting to hear back from my collector as to what should be inscribed here. These things take careful consideration you know! Well here's a pic of the piece that I'm so in love with at the moment!

Shop Update Today! All Three Paper Boat Illustrations!

2009-03-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

"Paper Boat Wishes"

"Seaworthy"

"The Everlasting Land"

All three paper boat illustrations have just been added to my Gumball Grenade shop today! I've been wanting to do limited editions for quite some time so I'm quite happy to have a complete set of three to share!

To Sail With a Whale Published in Somerset Digital Studio!

2009-03-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

It's here! I've been anxiously awaiting the arrival of Somerset Digital Studio's Spring '09 issue and I just checked on their website and you can see a page shot of my To Sail With a Whale illustration! Yippee! You can peek at it and order your own copy right here: http://www.stampington.com/html/som_dig_vol2.html

Also here's a snapshot of the cover! Thanks so much Somerset!

The Everlasting Land

2009-03-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

Where do you suppose it is?

This limited edition print, "The Everlasting Land" will be made available in my Gumball Grenade shop tomorrow! Also, don't forget to enter the giveaway!

A Seaworthy Giveaway!

2009-03-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited! Today marks the launch of a round of giveaways that I'll be doing! I aim to have more of these giveaways and will set them up to coincide with the holiday of the month. So with today being St. Patrick's Day it seems to be appropriate to celebrate!

Today I'm giving away a signed and numbered print of my latest illustration in my Paper Boat series called, "Seaworthy." Beautiful to think that such a delicately constructed thing like a paper boat can be seaworthy enough to brave troubled waters. In this piece I imagined the paper boats being inscribed with important things and then set off to brave the sea. Although the boats are made of only one tiny, little sheet of paper, they will still arrive to their final destination. I haven't even added this print to the shop yet! The next Gumball Grenade shop update is Thursday so the entire series will be available then!

Details: To win this limited edition "Seaworthy" art print simply visit my Gumball Grenade shop then return to this post and leave a comment regarding something in my shop! Simple! Winner will be selected with Random.org and entries close on March 31st! Take care!

Paper Boat Series

2009-03-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

"We'll need wood and we will need stones for a brand new house,

To leave, leave, forever leave, the everlasting land.

We'll cross the sea and we will brave storms in a paper boat.

To leave, leave, forever leave the everlasting land." - Lyrics and song by Cocoon

I'm completely loving the song Paper Boat by Cocoon. So relaxing and dreamy, just a perfect for a little Sunday. I spent my afternoon thinking about love, spirituality, and paper boats of all things! And of course sketching! Out came a new series of illustrations called the Paper Boat Series. Here's a little preview and be sure to take a listen to this sweet little song! So charming to hear the French accent and to hear the lead singer coaching the crowd on roaring like a dinosaur! Seems universal to me!

Are You Awake? One of those perfect little questions.

2009-03-11T07:39:00.001-07:00

Night Visitor acrylic on 5 x 7 inch wooden plaque

Are You Awake acrylic on 5 x 7 inch wooden plaque

I've had these two little sketches in my sketchbook for awhile now and couldn't resist painting them out. Remember when you were little and just couldn't fall asleep. You wanted someone to be awake with you. Everything felt just a little too quiet when everyone was asleep but you. So you'd turn to your little friend, knowing they were asleep, yet still you'd timidly ask, "Are you awake?" And with that singular question you knew you'd have someone to share your thoughts with. These should both be available in my Gumball Grenade shop later this evening!

Sneeches

2009-03-02T06:28:00.000-08:00

I'd be remiss if I didn't post about Dr. Seuss today! So I figured I would share which of his tales is one of my favorites. Would you have guessed it was "The Sneetches" A tale of consumption and discrimination and in the end the sneetches realize what is important

"I’m quite happy to say.That the Sneeches got really quite smart on that day.The day they decided that Sneetches are Sneetches. And no kind of Sneetch is the best on the beaches. That day, all the Sneetches forgot about stars and whether They had one, or not, upon thars."

Giveaway and Tagged it's 6's

2009-02-27T06:03:00.000-08:00

Jan of Expressive Papers just tagged me! I've never been tagged before this. Thanks Jan! The goal is for me to blog about the 6th picture in my 6th picture folder. So not only will I blog it but you are free to save it and use in your paper creations. This is a scan of a hand marbleized sheet of rice paper. I use it as a texture background in my illustrations. It makes a beautiful sea and sky layer.

You can download it here in my gumballgrenade flickr photostream!

Pale

2009-02-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

I'm ready for the wildlife to come out and enjoy spring. Rarely do I think of spring and Easter without also thinking of Beatrix Potter and her amazing depictions of little, forest creatures. My grandmother gave me an inscribed collection of her tales when I was little and it is still a cherished gift. With the advent of spring weather coming I have a strong desire to get into the mountains. I want to see Spring coming out of it's long slumber. Getting into the mountains is something I need to do more. What I have been doing more of is making one of a kind pieces lately. Here is the latest piece called Pale. Available in my Fables and Foxes shop.

Romantic Little Love Plaque

2009-02-25T14:31:00.000-08:00

Today I finished up this little romantic piece, "You Were My Ship" scalloped wall plaque. It's a wooden scalloped plaque which measures about 5 x 7 inches. It called out to have something Victorian-like so I used one of my papercut designs as the focal point and added some lovely blues, browns, and creams to give it a dusty, almost ghost-like feel. It's one of those pieces where you finally get what is in your head onto the surface. It's scratch and dirty and very old looking. It's currently available in my Fables and Foxes etsy shop!

Danger! A Must Have Apron!

2009-02-24T05:30:00.000-08:00

So I thought I had blogged about this! It was one of those things where you think "Oh that's something I'd like to add to the blog." and then you play it in your mind and the next day you think you've actually done it! But I didn't do it, I just wholeheartedly believed I did! So here's what I've been meaning to share:

So cute! I can get over her use of color and the green faux bois pattern! And look she used my "Wolf and Little Red" fabric. I'm giddy! So much detail and love when into it's creation. This my friends is the pure craftiness of Polly Danger! Who is Polly Danger you ask. Well here's her bio:

"Polly Danger wishes she could inhale air and exhale flowers, but since she can't (yet), she crafts! She's inspired by color and texture, is currently obsessed with gardening, and is continuously obsessed with sugar. Mmmm, candied violets . . ."

Along with just being completely enamoured by the craft apron above, I'm also quite smitten with the name "Polly Danger." It brings to my mind the image of a crafty woman wielding a pair of scissors and a sewing needle like a samurai! With a facial expression that seems to say "Bring it." And she clearly does as you can see from this picture of her "Hot Martha" apron.

Find out more about what's crafting in Polly's world by visiting her blog and shop: PollyDanger.etsy.com

New Original Artwork! Safe Keeping

2009-02-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

"Safe Keeping" original 5 x 7 mixed media on wood.

I remember when I was little I was always on the hunt for tiny little treasures. Once found, the next important task at hand was to find the safest and most secret placed to keep them. Flowers were tucked in books. Coins and sparkly trinkets went into the ballerina jewelry box. Little plastic figures of deer and gnomes were tied around a scrap of string to hang around the neck or tucked into a pocket. But some of the wishes one holds most dear are meant to be kept in the most special place of all, planted into a quiet little corner of your soul and left to bloom in due time. Available for purchase here: Gumball Grenade

Thinking about the Life of a Tree...

2009-02-22T07:15:00.000-08:00

Curious isn't it. These are new pieces that I created from two of my original paintings. I really wanted to portray an old and vintage feeling. It reminds me of those jagged, old, stop and go, black and white , flickery films and animations, I'm sure there is a term for that style of film and animation, and if not then there should be. I picture this fox and deer moving around inside these little vignettes in that style, with the background noise being the whir and clicking of an old projector. Makes me want to learn animation. STOP MOTION - that what the style is called I think? These pieces will be available as prints in my Fables and Foxes shop.

Dirty - This took me a year!

2009-02-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

I've neglected this painting for over a year now. Maybe longer. It was just one of those pieces where I didn't know where to go next. So I set it aside and there it sat in a dusty corner of the basement, completely alone and unloved. Today I grabbed it and finished it! It's a larger piece and it's going to hang in my formal living room which has been completely bare for the last two years other than furniture, so it will be nice to add something personal to the room finally. I dream of the day I can take over the room and convert it to a studio space. I'll take some pics once it's framed!

Sour Grapes Painting is Finished! Yay!

2009-02-17T16:34:00.000-08:00

Well here's the problem I went and played around with the painting digitally and I prefer the digital version! So the digital version is going up as a print in my Fables and Foxes shop. The "Sour Grapes" painting is...I don't know...it is here for me to ponder.

I've been smitten with the tale of how the saying "sour grapes" came about. Some poor little fox spies a bunch of delicious ripe grapes hanging from a grape vine that has grown up a tree. Despite his best efforts the little fox is unable to reach them. In the end he walks away, with the thought that the grapes were probably sour anyway! Life is like this sometimes. You blow up an idea to insurmountable proportions and then with the flick of fate the idea is no more. Reality hits. You realize that what you desired so much wasn't attainable, or wasn't worth attaining. So you walk away. Isn't desire interesting.

New Art over the Holiday!

2009-02-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a wonderful weekend, and if your here in the U.S., then I hope you were able to partake in the three day holiday! I can't say that I did anything incredibly exciting with my weekend, but I did find some time to connect with other artists and start some new work which is exciting for me! It's always energizing to me to be able to connect with other creators, it seems to give me a creative kick in the pants! So here is sneak peek at one little work in progress called "Sour Grapes."

A Little Bird Told Me Valentines Limited Edition Art Print

2009-02-14T07:33:00.001-08:00

A Little Bird Told Me...that I was loved. What did your little bird tell you? This is a limited edition print for Valentine's Day 2009! It's 50% off today only! It's available in my Gumball Grenade etsy shop! Yay! Happy Valentines Day!

MOST Favorite Valentine's Day Cards EVER!

2009-02-09T11:20:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you how excited I was last week when I received my Valentine's Day Cards order from artist and illustrator Julia Pott! If you haven't seen her work and are a bit of a twisted romantic, then you may find that her work is the perfect blend of humour, cute, with just the right sprinkling of morbid (see panda literally giving his right arm for his love!).

The cards read:

"I like you. You don't seem to have noticed"

" I am not thinking about you"

I'm also a HUGE fan of her animation work so I've included that in this post as well! Enjoy! Be sure to visit Julia's Etsy shop for even more illustrative goodness!

The Big Bad Wolf in Silver!

2009-02-08T08:20:00.001-08:00

It's been such a busy week. The little ones and I had a bit of a cold. We are all feeling much better now and are enjoying a quiet Sunday afternoon. So I'll take this quiet moment to share one of my latest fine silver creations, Little Red Riding Hood's Big Bad Wolf! Made entirely by hand out of fine silver PMC / Metal Clay! I love working with metal clay. I just don't don't get a chance to do it as often as I'd like to! He is now available in my Fables and Foxes etsy shop.

Ahhh My Shadow! Etsy Finds Groundog Day!

2009-02-02T10:32:00.001-08:00

It's Groundhog day! So funny to type G-r-o-u-n-d-h-0-g lol. As I was flipping through the Storque articles I was surprised to see one of my shadows! Actually one of my silhouette papercuts "Things I've Read of Bears" made an appearance in their collection! Yay, Thanks Iheartmoustaches of Etsy! Here's a link to the article. Scroll down a bit in the article and you'll find me! And can I just say how much I love that Peter and the Wolf Necklace and La Cerf that make up my neighbors in this collection!

Little Red Riding Hood Cast in Silver!

2009-02-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

While I do adore the craftiness of shrinky dinks there are some things that just need to be done in fine silver. I thought about making some shrink plastic pins and brooches of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf but the designs seemed to call for something a little more. So over the weekend I made some fine silver necklaces influenced by the design. I think the dark patina suits the fairytale image well. Here she is:

Available for purchase in my Fables and Foxes Shop.

Have you met Wishing Willow! Swing in for a Giveaway!

2009-01-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

If you've not visited the wonderful blog Wishing Willow then you are truly missing out on some lovely finds! Read on to find out a bit about the fantastic team of Nate and Tara:

Tara: "As a little girl, I found a kind of magic in the silhouette of a willow tree, as if all the hiddenness of a world undiscovered lurked just on the other side of its branches. Wishes, I imagined, lay waiting to be made within the shaded cove of the willow. Being a grownup doesn’t mean a girl can’t wish anymore. But I have a better idea now of the kinds of things worth wishing for. My goal in creating this blog is to provide for all of you a forum where products that are truly special can be featured, reviewed, and shared with a community that remembers what it was like to make wishes…and the magic of finding out that some wishes come true."

"The creative labor behind Wishing Willow's unique look and feel is a team effort. While I oversee the product selection, correspondence with designers, layout and site management, my husband Nate handles the writing of the features themselves. My pleasure in this process comes not only from finding and featuring new artists and designers, but also from enjoying my husband's crafting of words on a daily basis. Wishing Willow, for me, is a showcase not only of your work, but of his as well.Our Best To You,Tara & Nate"

Recently they wrote up a generous and so very eloquent review of my illustrative work. Along with this there is a giveaway so be sure to visit and enter to win one of my prints!

A Pocket Full of Pins!

2009-01-25T13:11:00.000-08:00

Just updated the shop today with some shrinky illustration/art badges! They were so much fun to make. This one is my favorite!

Some New Bethezda Goodies

2009-01-24T06:25:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to get back to making some Bethezda illustrations. When I look at her I see the sweet yet occasionally sassy temperament that female cats are famous for. It is my opinion that girl cats are far more sassy and independent creatures than their male counterparts (but in a good way). This one is called "Bethezda in Blossoms," she's looking a little zen here setteled into a bed of sweet spring cherry blossoms. She can think of no better way to meditate about life's events. I'd love to be sitting there as well.

So the other night I was thinking of making some fun little art pins and pendants and then received a comment from a collector that inquired if Bethezda would ever make an appearance on a pin. Well that was the kick in the pants I needed to develop an illustration and sweet little matching art brooch.

Next on my creative to do list is revisit my sketchbook project, finish up my pins, and work on some new illustrations...Oh and I also need to finish up a paper clay and cloth doll class that I've taken online.

The Art House Gallery's Sketchbook Project 3

2009-01-23T06:47:00.000-08:00

So I'm participating in the Art House Gallery's Sketchbook Project 3 and I'm feeling a bit of a time crunch! I'm also a bit timid about it. It's due by Feb. 15th Here's the progress so far:

The Pirate's Life Series is Complete!

2009-01-16T07:22:00.000-08:00

Yay! This took a bit longer than I expected. Here's how it's put together. First the pencil drawings which are shaded and scanned into the computer. Next, the background, which is made up of one of my painted canvases which has been scanned into the computer makes up the background. Some hand marbleized rice paper, which again has been scanned in to the computer makes up the texture of the narwhale's body and the waves. The swirls in the waves are from the swirls of the marbleized rice paper! Fun huh? Lastly, color it in using Photoshop. Here you can see the final results! All three, We Arrrrr Friends, Tiarrrrghed, and Ahoy Moon, can be purchased as a print set from my etsy shop: GumballGrenade

I NEED to paint!

2009-01-11T16:07:00.000-08:00

I'm craving painting beyond belief! I'm about ready to do away with the "formal" living room, just to have adequate lighting. The problem is that my basement is unfinished and the yellow insulation casts and unbearable hue on whatever I paint. Yuck! It's funny when I ignore the desire to paint I get cranky (that's the nice way to put it). It's impulsive, irritating, and nagging in the best way! Here's a little pic of the first watercolor painting I sold.

Little Red and Big Bad Wolf Fabric!!!

2009-01-05T19:20:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that I'm so excited and grateful to have won this weeks fabric design contest over at spoonflower.com! Yay! Huge, gigantic, hugs and kisses to all those who voted! The design came in with over 500 votes, taking 41% of the votes! That's crazy! So I was curious as to how or even if the fabric was selling over in Spoonflower's etsy shop and was shocked to see that 28 yards have been already been ordered on it's first day! I think it will be available for 1 week only. If you like the fabric and want coordinating prints you can purchase them as a set in either of my shops: GumballGrenade.Etsy.com or FablesandFoxes.Etsy.com

A Pirate's Life For Me

2009-01-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would post a sneak peek of a sketch from a pirate and narwhale series that I'm working on! This little guys is just plain ti-arrrrghed! Sorry, I couldn't resist.

To Resolve or not?

2009-01-03T05:56:00.000-08:00

The new year always brings about the urge for people to resolve to do the next year differently or improve their lives in some way be it big or small. I've pondered the idea of making a resolution and all topics come to mind: living with health, kindness, creativity, green principles, artistic goals. I can't find or even afford to select only one particular idea. Everyday it changes. There are always things to strive for, but there is also so much to be content with. It's a balance between wanting to improve one's life and still living in each moment with the realization and awareness of being grateful for life in the moment. So I leave you with a quote or mantra for the new year that I'm resolving to do. I hope it spurns even more introspection, contemplation, and contentment with life.

"Every day we should hear at least one little song, read one good poem, see one exquisite picture, and, if possible, speak a few sensible words."
-Goeth

Have You Met Spoonflower!

2008-12-30T07:53:00.000-08:00

Have you met Spoonflower! I was introduced earlier this year via another amazing Etsy artist's blog, the infamous and pixie like Emily Martin of The Black Apple. Since this little introduction I've fallen head over heels in love with Spoonflower! This wonderful business is an independent designer's dream ! On Spoonflower.com you can design your own fabric! No minimum order requirement, no requirement for bulk yardage. Submit your design and order! I have been dreaming that a service like this would be made available! In my mind they are an integral part of supporting independent designers and the indie handmade movement. I am absolutely thrilled that my "Wolf and Little Red" fabric was selected by the wonderful people of Spoonflower.com as as one of four fabric designs that could be made available for a limited time on the Spoonflower Etsy shop. It is up for vote along with three other wonderful fabric designs! You can vote for your favorite by visiting the Spoonflower Blog here!

Christmas Comforts

2008-12-27T07:18:00.000-08:00

Each year we try to get down to the center of town to stroll Christmas Village. My parents used to take me through the park when I was little and I have very fond memories of peeking into all of the little elf houses to see what was going on inside. More and more these houses have been adopted by giant businesses and the decor has moved away from the spirit of the season and more towards advertisement. Santa was even MIA on Christmas Eve. But this gave another opportunity to expand on the tale of St. Nicholas and his goings ons. However towards the end of our stroll a bit of handmade was depicted in one of the homes...A SOCK MONKEY! Anyway here are some pics from the village.

My Handmade Christmas!

2008-12-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

Yay! I've had so much fun making goodies and gifts for friends and loved ones over the last couple of days! Here are some chocolate pizzelles I made this morning. Pizzelles are an Italian cookie, but there are also scandanavian versions of this darling cookie as well called Krumkake. I could go broke collecting the different style of irons that make beautiful patterns on the cookie! This is the first time I made a chocolate version! The variety of flavors you can make is countless!

I also made some cashew and vanilla caramels, combining a Martha Stewart recipe with another recipe. I love cashews and I love caramel, so it was all I could do not to gobble up the whole lot of them!

Lastly, I finished up a little puppy pop art for my dear neighbor! She has the cutest little Boston Terrier named Zoe. I've been helping her watch the little one during the day. Marzipan, my little Coton de Tulear puppy, just loves her to death! He's so protective and snugly with her. So I put together some cute little puppy pop art prints for her to enjoy. You should have seen me howling at her to get her to tilt her head just right. So sweet!

Here's wishing you a happy handmade holiday as well!

Big Bad Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood Keepsake Boxes!

2008-12-08T12:15:00.001-08:00

Yay! A shop update today! I just added these two adorable wooden keepsake boxes featuring my Dark Forest Big Bad Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood illustrations. You can find them here: Fables and Foxes

Illustration Friday! Similar

2008-12-06T17:58:00.000-08:00

Cuddles 8 x 10 art print: Although they are different species, they are similar in nature.

More Pillow Talk!

2008-12-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

Yay! I zipped over to my mom's house this morning to find that she had completed the Big Bad Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood applique pillows. She said she let out little "horay" when she finished them. Her craftsmanship and attention to detail on these is phenomenal! She came over to my house this afternoon and I gave her a photo tutorial and showed her how the Fables and Foxes shop was looking. She said, "I haven't been this excited about sewing in a long time!" I think we've found a perfect way for us to blend our skills and make something that is truly magical. She's already starting on getting three more pillows together using the same red fabric in the background!

Anyway they are available here!

The Keeper

2008-12-03T18:48:00.001-08:00

I just updated my Fables and Foxes shop with this little papercut, The Keeper Art Print. Such wonderful things lurk in the deep and dark forest. Dare to step in and you never know what the outcome might be. Maybe something wonderful, magical, made up of the pure essence of all things you love. Or linger on the outskirts. Peer from the boundaries. Dance around the edges and never know the wonders that await. I've been thinking of the new year. I'm going to into the deep, dark forest. I'll be sure to leave a trail of crumbs if you'd like to follow!

Pillow Talk!

2008-11-30T15:57:00.000-08:00

So I got an update on the pillows! They look fantastic and oh so improved from the latest post about them! They take a bit of time to create, but the final outcome is so worth it! I can't wait to put them up in the shop. My mom just showed me them in their near final sates! I left her house giddy as a school girl! Hopefully Tuesday will be the day!

Thanksgiving Etsy Shop Update! Just in time for Black Friday!

2008-11-27T17:19:00.000-08:00

I do love a holiday! I'm especially excited to let you all know that I've added three new illustrations to my GumballGrenade etsy shop tonight! Just in time for my Black Friday - Cyber Monday promotion! These art prints, Nestled, Tuckered, and Cuddles are done in a bit of a different style than my usual illustrations, but I just love the way they turned out! I have many more that will be done in this style this coming year!

Also, since today is about being appreciative, I feel it's important to mention a few things I'm thankful for this year:

My family!
Health
Friends
Paper, Pencils, Pens
My Etsy supporters!
The Utah Etsy Team, they are such an energizing group of creative individuals. I'm also grateful for the success of our first ever Handmade Harvest! I was so nervous about launching this event. Despite my nervousness, it turned out to be a success and we were able to raise $400 for Utah's Road Home Shelter in less than 1 month! Yay!
Chocolate

Pillow Prototypes!

2008-11-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

I completely envy my Mom's sewing skills! She's been an avid sewer since her teen years. For her sewing was her personal retreat. Well this coming year one of my goals is to learn how to sew. However, she and I just recently collaborated on a pillow project! I'm so excited to be offering similar pillows in my Fables and Foxes shop within the next couple weeks. Until then, here's a little peek at our pillow prototypes! The second picture shows the back of the large (16 inch) red riding hood pillow.

Dog Outfits

2008-11-17T08:55:00.000-08:00

So this Halloween I came dangerously close to putting Marzipan in a costume! Now I stopped myself as I realized, with costume in hand, that this was a threshold I was not yet ready to cross! Anyway this morning I threw on some bear ears and this is most likely as close as I'll ever get to dressing up my dog!

Finally A PMC Tutorial

2008-11-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

This is not all that well put together, but it does show you a bit about the firing of PMC fine silver, for those who are curious.

Some fancy pants Moleskine Notebooks!

2008-11-16T08:28:00.001-08:00

I love these little cashier notebooks. They have a perfectly smooth surface for printing on. I updated my Fables and Foxes shop with these yesterday and today....I'll be adding some additional fine silver pieces and maybe a small tutorial if my camera cooperates (walks away muttering and growling under her breath).

Harmonious Living

2008-11-15T08:15:00.000-08:00

I love waking up to see all the little animals loving each other, bouncing around the house in playful romps. A sweet little scene this morning at the watering hole quickly dissipated as the aggressor, Boris the cat, tried to claim Marzipan's dog dish for his own. If only the harmony in nature wasn't so fleeting.

And now a glimpse at a new piece. As I type this the tip of my index finger sends the signal of "ouch tender skin!" up to my brain due to it wanting to blister from pressing so hard on the knife blade as I cut each leaf out on this piece.) It's worth it though.

"Wanting In Wheat Fields"

And this lovely little tidbit from Wiki! "Anthropomorphism is a well-established device in literature from early times. Aesop's Fables, a collection of short tales written or recorded by the ancient Greek citizen Aesop, make extensive use of anthropomorphism, in which animals and weather illustrate simple moral lessons. One poet who made high art of the literary device was the northern renaissance poet Robert Henryson in his Morall Fabillis, where the blend of human and animal characteristics is especially subtle and ambiguous. The Indian books Panchatantra (The Five principles) and The Jataka tales employ anthropomorphized animals to illustrate various principles of life.

In conjunction with other symbols it's a goldmine for the creative mind. This piece surprises me though, it's like a journal entry for me visible only in symbols and it directly correlates to what's going in the present for me. Revelation. Hmmm. Prints are now available in my FablesAndFoxes.etsy.com shop!

Things I've Read of Bears

2008-11-13T17:30:00.001-08:00

Things in books are always so intriguing! This is the latest print being offered in my new Etsy shop, Fables And Foxes, called "Things I've Read Of Bears"! So Far I have two absolute favorites, two that seem a bit more special to me than the rest. Is that wrong to say? I don't think so...I can recount a couple original paintings that have been heartbreaking for me to part with, but I'm left with the comfort of knowing they're now in happy little homes.

Invitation Project

2008-11-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

A few pics of an invitation project:

A Love for Being Distressed

2008-11-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

I love the charm, romance, and mystery of old looking things. There is a certain mystery that’s carried with well loved things that have been kept and handled over long periods of time. Even more, I love special, little findings, treasures, and secrets to hide away and keep safe in trusted places. Each box has been gently distressed and sealed to give it an old antique feel. They were added to my Fables And Foxes shop yesterday!

You Were My Ship

2008-11-08T03:32:00.001-08:00

One of my latest papercuts , "You Were My Ship". A girl, the sea, a ship, and a sense of something lost, leaving, or both. Also... there is going to be a shop update today! I'm just waiting for daylight to snap some photos of the little lovelies! Here's a hint...think treasures.

The Tortise and the Hare

2008-11-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

I can't put my scissors and knife down. This is clearly becoming an addiction. Above is a preview of what's to come. Today was definitely a hectic day. I want to curl up like that little bunny and have a rest against a large, gnarled, old tree. Really, the race doesn't matter all that much to me. Some days it's just nice to settle on back into your own spot in the universe and take it a bit slower.

Winter Illustration Series is Finished!

2008-11-05T06:05:00.000-08:00

It's been an extremely busy week between volunteering for an international group that supports literacy and setting up Fables And Foxes, (my new Etsy shop). Nevertheless, I still managed to finish out my winter series of illustrations. I plan on adding these little cuties to some hang tags and Christmas cards as well!

Yay! Fables and Foxes is Up and Running!

2008-11-02T13:42:00.000-08:00

Finally! I've been wanting to open Fables and Foxes for some time now and it's here finally! These illustrations and items were needing a little shop of their own. I love the feel of the shop although it's drastically different than the illustrations featured in the GumballGreande shop. Hopefully they'll carve out their own little niche within Etsy as I love them dearly. I love that I've found a way to combine my illustrations and paper cuts with jewelry! I was so excited that I couldn't even sleep last night! Here are some of the creations:

Little Red Riding Hood and Halloween!

2008-10-31T14:49:00.001-07:00

A Little Red Riding Hood papercut that I did this morning! She's one of the first prints that will soon be available in my soon to be stocked up Etsy shop: FablesAndFoxes. I plan on launching about 6 prints on Sunday! This is the first!

More Winter Scenes

2008-10-28T08:29:00.001-07:00

I went ahead and revised my Polar Bear King illustration to match the little foxy illustration below. I'm working on making this a series of three winter illustrations. The final illustration will be a little rabbit. Hopefully it will be complete by tomorrow and then all three will post as a set! Until then enjoy this little "Winter Bear".

GROSGRAIN MINI STORE OPENING NOVEMBER 6!!!!! AND BIG PREVIEW GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-10-27T20:50:00.000-07:00

GROSGRAIN MINI STORE OPENING NOVEMBER 6!!!!! AND BIG PREVIEW GIVEAWAY!!!!

A Friend in Winter

2008-10-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

"Friend in Winter" 8 x 10 inch print

"A little red fox sits quietly in the forest,

listening to quaking leaves sing their wintry chorus.

Tracks mark the way to a cozy den.

We’ll see you when the aspen grove blooms again."

I just updated my Etsy shop with this winter themed illustration. It seems to me that things become more crisp and clear in winter. Even one's thoughts. I'm hoping to work this illustration on to some cards and hang tags as well! The little poem needs some work, but you get the idea!

Illustration Friday: Repair

2008-10-26T08:30:00.001-07:00

All things need repairs now and again. "Midnight Mending" Print. Pencil, watercolor, ink, and digital.

Halloween Cupcakes!

2008-10-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

I made these up for a Halloween party. These were so fun to make! I can't take credit for the idea as it came just in time from this Etsy How To article:http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/how-tuesdays-bleeding-vampire-cupcakes-2796/ . On a side note my cherry puree was so drippy that gravity worked against me in a fast way! As quick as I poured the cherry puree into the frosting bag it shot out! Then when I adjusted the frosting bag, the puree poured out of the opposite side of the bag because I didn't have the bag twisted and I panicked when the cherry puree was spewing all over the counter and oozing down to the floor! It looked like a blood bath in the kitchen! I also added some cupcake toppers that I made up from vintage Dracula movie posters and photos of Bela Lugosi! Humming Bauhaus song now...On the back of each topper is one of the following quotes from Bela Lugosi:

"Death, the final triumphant lover."

"To win a woman, take her with you to see Dracula."

"I have never met a vampire personally, but I don't know what might happen tomorrow."

I just love Halloween!

Marie-Therese Gown GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-10-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

Grosgrain features the most lovely giveaways and I can't resist entering them! This costume is so stunning! Marie-Therese Gown GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

Fourth PikaPackage Giveaway!

2008-10-17T14:43:00.000-07:00

Yay! I'm so very excited to be a part of the Pikaland PikaPackage project! October's giveaway is underway so be sure to visit pikaland.com and enter to win a truely lovely bundle of illustrated goodies! http://www.pikaland.com/ !

Also, Amy has just put out the fourth PikaPackage Zine so be sure to take a stroll though it to read some quirky little interviews by several amazing illustrators!

Winner Announcement

2008-10-13T19:34:00.000-07:00

The entrant that won last weeks giveaway for the nursery print was Moxy. Congratulations! Thanks to all who entered!

Pikaland Pikapackage!

2008-10-12T07:16:00.000-07:00

Amy over at Pikaland had developed a fantastic blog dedicated to all fantastic things illustrative! According to Amy, Pikaland is, "a blog dedicated to living the illustrative life...Pikaland is a happy land." Amy has done an amazing job in collecting and cataloging a selection of wonderful artists. Each month or so Amy presents to the public a collection of her finds in the form of a "Pikapackage". I'm completely ecstatic to be featured in October's Pikapackage. The October package is not available for purchase just yet, but it can be previewed here. Until then be sure to visit her blog and peruse the wonderful artists she has featured.

*** The winner of the contest below will be announced tomorrow! So you still have time to enter!

For a New Addition...Come Out and Play Giveaway!

2008-10-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

So with a new addition to my cousin's family I've been thinking of what to get her. I have a package of wonderful cuddly things all ready to ship out, but wanted to make something special for her nursery which has a green and cream color scheme to it. So I incorporated a vintage nursery rhyme into one of my illustrations...a little old, a little new. I made a version for the boys (all green dots) and for the little girls out there (some pink dots in the mix). Both available in the shop, but the very first print goes to sweet little Victoria. The second goes to the winner of this giveaway. Simply comment to be entered to win! Winner will be selected by the old timey method of pulling a name out of a hat. Contest ends next Sunday, October 12th. Please leave your blog or email so I can contact you!

For the girls:

For the boys:

Red Riding Hood Jacket GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-10-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Red Riding Hood Jacket GIVEAWAY !!!!!!! This is one of the best giveaways I've come across in a while! Swing on by the ever so lovely Grosgrain blog, which features biweekly giveaways of pure cuteness, and Enter to win this amazingly adorable Red Riding Hood jacket!