by Great Joy Studio | Nov 14, 2011 | Field Trip, Home Arts
A few weeks ago I began to collect the colorful leaves that were beginning to appear everywhere. I’ve never been able to resist picking up every interestingly patterned, colored or sized, etc., leaf that was floating around. This year I found them to be especially inviting and comforting as well. Such a simple treat to see and enjoy on a brisk walk. Since we live in a heavily wooded area, there was a never ending supply. I am remembering now that I held on to all that I bothered to bend down and retrieve. Although temporarily forgotten about, evidently I stashed several stacks underneath various items around the house and studio. I’m just now discovering their hiding places. They will be enjoyable to paint.
by Great Joy Studio | Aug 28, 2011 | Field Trip
This Giant Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio cresphontes) joined us late in the afternoon as we hung around the kiddie pool on their last lingering summer day. We watched in amazement as she (he?) fluttered all around us, nearly landing on each one. It never stopped flapping it’s wings so these were the best shots I could manage. A striking looking creature.
I think I need to try my hand at painting some of these. This last image (not mine) I discovered during a little bit of research.
by Great Joy Studio | Aug 25, 2011 | Field Trip
Just caught a glimpse, a tiny hint of Fall, out the studio window. Here, Dogwoods are always the first indication of the season’s change whether, flowers in the Spring or rusty red leaves in Autumn. Good to know it’s just around the corner even though, still feeling the summer heat at 100 degrees. Ooh, and just saw a leaf float to the ground. Yippee, c’mon Fall.
by Great Joy Studio | Jul 21, 2011 | Field Trip
Kid in a candy store – That was me, right after my first glimpse of the 2011 CHA Summer Conference & Trade Show on Monday. It was my first CHA show and my roving eyes could scarcely take it all in. There was so much creative ‘eye candy’ to see all together in one place and beautifully displayed. Creativity as far as the eye could see, oh MG (gosh), my mouth was agape with eager anticipation of visiting every booth I could squeeze into one day.
My specific reason for going was attending one seminar, Learning Adobe Illustrator taught by my talented friend Phyllis Dobbs. The class was well worth the investment in time and travel. Phyllis (FB link) provided all of the basic knowledge to begin creating fun computer graphics, also a first for me. I recommend taking one of her classes if you get an opportunity.
During class time I spotted a very fun, decorated hat across the room and maneuvered myself toward the wearer for a closer look. Turned out to be none other, than our LinkedIn group, artist acquaintance, Gail Green. The following day Gail was demonstrating her new line of designer stamps at Impression Obsession.
An added attraction displayed center showroom was the ‘Craft Couture’ display.
It’s good to be home, inspired by all of the creations, creators and vast array of available materials, like visions of sugar plums dancing in my head. I think the two day road trip, just may be the shot in the arm I needed about now. Nothing like a showroom full of every kind of art and craft supplier to spark the imagination.
by Great Joy Studio | Jun 30, 2011 | Field Trip
Sharing art supplies and techniques this week at our 1st Annual (mini) Art Camp.
Art Appreciation - Field Trip
St. Louis Art Museum field trip, Art Camp, kick-off.
by Great Joy Studio | Jun 6, 2011 | Field Trip
Actias Luna – Luna Moth, life cycle
It’s a treat when these fascinating creatures show up for a short showy viewing. This one was spotted by Sydney on Sunday and it is still perched on the brick under the porch light this (Monday) morning. With only five days to live, what’s he/she doing sitting on the wall? The one in the red coat (close-up below) was featured in my “Woodsy Wonders” fabric line.
