Think creatively... Be passionate and true... Draw a colorful life.

Wishcasting Wednesday

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:59:00 +0000

"It is my feeling that Time ripens all things;

with Time all things are revealed;Time is the father of truth."

Francois Rabelais

How do you wish to spend your time?

I wish...
To engage in the simplicity of life.

My thoughts
No need to be in such a rush...
we might miss out on the little things.
Those just might be the most meaningful moments in our lives.
I wish...

To take the time to talk, laugh, and sing... with family and friends.
To listen to others share their stories;
gather around and embrace what has been placed in front of me.

source

Take the time...

To build strong family ties and loving communication;
give where it has been neglected and nurture where it is needed.
Keep loving friendships close and dear to me; never taken for granted.

source

Write a note, send a letter, scribble a heart on a piece of scratch paper;

never thinking I am wasting my time...

telling others how much I care!

I wish...

To enjoy a few of life's simple pleasures...

That are important to me.

source

A cozy place to snuggle up with my Husband.

Read a good book, delight in some sweetness...

Enjoy a road trip and making plenty of playtime,
to indulge in my creativity!

***

How do you wish to spend your time?

wish here

Mini Junk Journal

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 22:10:00 +0000

"I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them."

~PABLO PICASSO

junk journal book

Well, it isn't really "junk"...

I think it very useful. The little pockets can be filled with artful treasures or notes.

Created from coffee filters, scrap paper, corrugated cardboard,

paint swatches, left over paint, prints, and ribbons.

I enjoyed creating these "artful clips".

So many different ways to put them to good use, don't you think?

***

Happy Tuesday!

What Fuels Your Fire?

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 21:40:00 +0000

** GOOD QUESTION, right... **

Call it whatever you wish... inspiration, your drive, or your creative passion!

We all have it, live it, or wake up wanting it.

What better way to start out this week, than to share with you this incredible video.

Danielle LaPorte

http://www.daniellelaporte.com

What lights your FIRE...?
Pre-order now. This will be released on April 17th. Gift yourself or put it on your wish list.
I am gifting myself, with this book, as of today, it has been pre-ordered!

I CAN NOT WAIT... I will keep you posted and if you wish post a book review.

***

** Thank you **
for everyone wishing me well!

Knowing others care, really can cheer you up.

Means a lot to me... having your support during these times,

when I have no control over my health issues.

((hugs))

I am still working on my tag collection...

As I stated in an earlier post, working with smaller pieces of art allows me to heal.

Working within a smaller space...

gives me that permission to slow it down.

I do know for some, this is more challenging....

For me, it is the little things in life that are important, and creating on a smaller scale

is a reflection of that.

I did mention, creating an altered box to store all these tags.

Far from completion... but I did wish to share!

I used torn pieces of masking tape to cover the whole project.

I want to give this altered box a real textured affect.

***

Happy Monday!

Go Ahead... ask me this question

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 00:58:00 +0000

I am a tagger?

Technically speaking...

***

Yes I am.

This is but a small collection of what I have been working on

over the past few days.

I haven't been feeling too well, got caught up in a Fibro. Flare.

Yet, creating these altered tags...

has been very therapeutic, yes art does heal!

***

Thought I would share a few of my favorite, so far... that is.

***

I decided I need to place these tags in an altered box.

I thought, If I am going to put these to good use,

the tags need to be available for easy access!

I have plenty of boxes laying around, to use for art.

So, I will create a storage tray for these...

Yes, I will share with you the finished project.

I am looking forward to sharing with you more altered tags and the storage tray.

Wishing you a creative Saturday!

Friday's Lovely Links

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:40:00 +0000

Enjoy your visit... and these delightful links.

source

***

** Moleskine Diary **

created by

Anna Rusakova

click here

** DIY **

String Closer Envelope

http://fabienne-franck.blogspot.com

** DIY **

Magnetic Envelope Project

created by

http://blog.basicgrey.com

Download PDF

Here

** Fabric Covered Altiod Tin **

Tutorial created by

http://greenbeesbees.blogspot.com

** 101 Free Printables **

These are absolutely free!

http://www.everythingetsy.com

** 3-D Dimensional Collage Art **

Rebecca Sower

http://rebeccasower.typepad.com

** Art Journal Pages **

created by

vibekescrapperogskryter.blogspot.com

** Home Decorating **

Decorating Rooms / DIY projects

http://theinspiredroom.ne

***

Have a wonderful Friday!

BOD - Book of Days 2012

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 22:52:00 +0000

Welcome... to my documented life art journal.

Interested in the project BOD read my pervious post HERE

***

We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think.

When the mind is pure,

joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.

BUDDHA

** What Brings You Joy? **

***

Thought:

Our personal joy is owned by us...

It is only stolen, if one allows it to be.

Happy Thursday!

Wishcasting Wednesday- What do you wish for the world?

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:11:00 +0000

I wish... for us all, to embrace our beautiful Mother Earth.

source

For us to treat her (our world) as a whole.

For all to understand...

we are sharing this planet, we call "earth".

***

That what happens at one end of the world, effects us all.

No matter how far the distance, what faith we might hold,

wherever belief system we live, talents, riches, or possessions we might own...

We are all human beings sharing one planet!

***

Mother Earth

provides us will everything we need to live... let us honor and respect her gifts.

Let us respect one another... there is enough to go around.

This is a wonderful world we live in

let us all treat her, ourself, and others right!

May the sun, moon, and stars, bless you and all you love.

May Mother Earth cradle you in her arms and protect you.

Always tend to go in peace, allow laughter to mend wounds,

and

leave behind love to follow.

What do you wish for the world?

wish here

My Valentine Wish...

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:12:00 +0000

To you:

Comfort on difficult days,

smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds,

laughter to kiss your lips,

sunsets to warm your heart,

and

hugs if ever your spirit sags.

I wish

beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being,

faith so that you can believe,

confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself,

patience to accept the truth...

and

Love

to complete your life.

** Happy Valentine's Day **

The Fashion of Frida Kahlo

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:57:00 +0000

The year was 1954, the year Frida Kahlo passed away.

Diego Rivera

had her dressing room at the Casa Azul locked,

with the stipulation that it could be opened 50 years later.

Imagine...

that day became a reality,2004.

The discoveries behind that

closed door were revealed for the first time ever!

Frida Kahlo

paper doll dresses

These original pieces were designed by myself

and

the dress are created in a 3-dimentional form.

Could you imagine being there...

exploring Frida's dressing room!

With a little imagination, this is what I thought I might have seen.

Happy Monday!

BOD - Book of Days 2012

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 21:46:00 +0000

I invite you into... My documented life in an art journal.

Interested in the project BOD Click Here

***

There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.

Maya Angelou

** Inhabit Your Story **

***

Thought...

if you were to inhabit your life story using art,

how would you "visually" show others?

Happy Saturday!

Friday's Lovely Links

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:45:00 +0000

Enjoy your visit... and these delightful links.

source

* * Art Journaling **

Art Journal verses Scrapbook

Vanessa's layouts are a must see.

http://www.prettydays-studio.com

** Art Journaling Pages 101 **

Tutorial

http://tangiebaxter.com

Tangie creates such beautiful art journal pages.

** Rolodex Collection **

DIY- Rolodex Scrapbook

http://bluemossgirls.blogspot.com

Idea Rolodex File

http://carrieb.typepad.com

Artful Order Rolodex

DIY- using paint swatches

http://inmyownstyle.com

Free Printable Templates

** Printable Journaling Cards **

Ephemera Inspired

http://sweetlyscrappedart.blogspot.com

** An Owl Library Card **

http://www.lovevsdesign.com

** Mark My Words **

nose stuck in book

Download bookmarks here

http://wewilsons.blogspot.com

Have a wonderful Friday!

Oh I Wish... for a handmade gift!

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:46:00 +0000

source

* Pay It Forward 2012 Project *

Erin Keane

http://art-is-try-artistry.blogspot.com

Is the host of Pay It Forward.

Erin explains how this project is stemmed from a

Facebook challenge, which took place at the beginning of the New Year for 2011.

You can read about it here as she explains how the process of "pay it forward" came about.

***

I also, had the great opportunity of participating in this last year of 2011.

It was very inspiring!

I received all five handmade gifts.

Created and crafted by very talented, beautiful artful souls.

I made new friends along the way!

Which I am, still in contact with, to this very day.

I also want to give credit to

Andria

http://andria-drawingnear.blogspot.com

Who is always so willing to share and inspire others with her

art, thoughts, tutorials, and links to such projects/swaps as this one right here.

Thank you!

Creating art and sharing our talents with others who are like minded...

has a very powerful and inspiring effect on us all.

Care to join me, here's how it works: rules

Want to participate, please leave a comment on this post.

The first three people who whole heartily, are willing to commit to the project

will receive a small handmade artful gift from me!!

Post this project on your blog / website.

(FEEL FREE TO COPY AND PASTE FROM MY SITE THE RULES)

Gather three new participants .

Be willing and able to "Pay It Forward" by sending out your gift!

** Please link to this original post **

I, in turn, will include a link to your post

so that we can follow the project from its origin.

Now, that you have made your decision.

Committed to the project.

Posted your comment.

Created your own very own post of the project to your site.

Email me

artistaprilcole@gmail.com

Your full name and mailing address

Date of when you will be posting your announcement of the project.

A Link to the post as well.

I will be sending you...

a heartfelt, handmade gift created by me!!

In turn, give (small, simple, heartfelt) handmade gifts to your participants.

Let the create joy grow exponentially!!

Will you be the first?

Bonita Rose http://www.bonitarose.com/2012/02/join-fun-pay-it-forward-2012.html
Theresa http://visualjournaling.net
Lindsay http://dryadajournals.blogspot.com/2012/02/pay-it-forward-2012.html

*No worries... once you have notified me I will place you name and link to your site.

Happy Thursday to you!

Wishcasting Wednesday

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:31:00 +0000

What do you wish to attract?

The essence of Purity.

source

Iron rusts from disuse; water loses its purity from stagnation...

even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind.

~Leonardo da Vinci

***

If you look up the definition purity

These two key words keep reappearing;

freedom from

Exactly... the purity of freedom!

Freedom from the corrupting elements that have surrounded my life.

Freedom from guilt, of a past I can not change.

Freedom to live out my life in a way that makes me feel content.

Freedom to be self expressive, through my artwork.

The freedom to be pure at heart... to be who I am, where I'm at.

source

By fully engaging in such an element of this nature...

I couldn't wish for anything more.

***

Our time is limited here, however you choose to view it.

I wish...
to spend my life attracting the purity of it all!

source

What do you wish to attract?

wish here

What Draws Us Near...

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:28:00 +0000

Ever Notice... we are drawn to what we can identify?
Weather it is something personal, or by an experience; the attraction is there.

* Frida Kahlo *

I feel a real connection with this artist;

for her WELL KNOWN EXPRESSIVE paintings and her pain.

To share will you my artwork for the day...

I created these business card holders

from you guess it a...

** RECYCLED TIN **

So, whenever I am working with using Frida Kahlo as my subject,

It is very personal to me.

* Mini Journals *

Color and books.

I just can not... EVER seem to get enough of either one!!

There is nothing more satisfying than creating your very own.

I was so thrilled to find the time, to finish up on these wonderful mini journals.

If you are interested in creating some of your very own

read here

(There is a link to the video on this post)

So tell me... what draws you near?

Happy Tuesday!

BOD - Book of Days 2012

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:27:00 +0000

Imagine... a whole year of your life documented in an art journal!
Interested in the project, read my previous post on BOD here

Here is a sneak peek into my life...

These journal pages are very person..

Signifying events that are taking place in my life.

Thoughts and feelings.

Gentle reminders towards how I need to

"EMBRACE"

***

Enjoy your peak into my BOD art journal.

I always enjoy sharing

with all of you!

Happy Monday

Mail Art - Tribute to Artist

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:21:00 +0000

These wonderful artist

shared their talents

and

sent out

"HAPPY MAIL".

They deserve a around of applause... don't you think?!

created and sent by : Harmony

http://feedyoursoulart.blogspot.com

***

created and sent by: Fran

http://wethree3.blogspot.com

* watercolor *

ATC

created and sent by: Corinne Marie

* mixed-media collage *

ATC

*ATC*

created and sent by: Karenann Young

http://karenannyoung.blogspot.com

Thank you

This really makes my day!

What is arriving in your mailbox?

Do you wish to exchange some "happy mail"?

Leave me a comment or an email.

***

Have a wonderful Saturday!

Friday's Lovely Links

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:20:00 +0000

Enjoy your visit... and these delightful links.

source

* Paper Bag Pockets Tutorial *

http://thescrappytree.blogspot.com

* Journal Pages *

Daily Scrap

created by: Susie

http://mylifeonebitatatime.blogspot.com

* Valentine's Day Wreath *

DIY

created by:

http://www.iveyhandcrafted.blogspot.com

* Tiny Pincushion Tutorial *

http://www.origamimommy.org

* Free Art Class*

Artist Steve Aimone's Expressive Drawing Class

Mail Art...

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:46:00 +0000

Makes me very happy!

doesn't everybody...

get super excited when there is something artful in their mailbox?

Let me give you the grand tour.

This is where all my "happy mail" comes from...

It is so delightful.

To reach my hand in there and pull out "mail art".

It ranges from day to week...

from all over the world...

and

the envelopes, everyone is getting so creative!

Love it all.

They are a work of art!!

Almost a shame, to rip open at times.

Let me share with you...

some of the things that surround me, as I make my way to the mailbox.

My mini birdie flag.

"welcome"

I adore birds as you can tell.

You betcha!!!

The American Flag.

I've have a long list of family members who have severed this country.

Also to include...

My Husband, a Marine who served in The Vietnam War.

My Son, A Combat Engineer, in the Army, served in Iraq.

I made this hanging rooster, years ago.

All out of found scrap wood.

With all the moving I have done, over the years...

There are a few things, I refuse to leave behind!

I simply adore my Tin Man.

The pie tin hat, serves as a feeding tray for the birds.

My Husband is trimming our front tree right now...

so he is just relaxing in my

bright yellow Adirondack Chair!

And, right on the front porch, by the foot of our door is...

These Lady Bug Rocks!

I got these rocks years ago, at the beach, painted them with oil paints.

The "smile face"

my daughter made out of a ball of pottery clay.

It is simple but sweet, I think!

Yes...

I am colorful from the inside out!

I do hope you enjoyed the tour.

I have received some wonderful "mail art".

By incredibly talented artist.

I will be sharing and posting about it all very soon!

I am very grateful for everyone...

who has sent me a piece of their artwork

and

are willing to shared their talents with me.

Something very magical happens...

when you share a common interest,

something you feel very passionate about...

A friendship!

develops along the way.

***

Wishcasting Wednesday

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:27:00 +0000

I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel,
but we are well equipped for it, if only...
we tap into our talents and gifts and allow them to blossom.
~ Les Brown

source

What do I wish people knew about you?

(me)

Take me as I am.

This is the real deal here!

With all my faults and flaws... I am who I am.

Nothing less.

source

I didn't become who I am without my fair share of...

life's little lessons!

Nothing was handed to me on a silver platter I had to earned it.

Fight for self righteousness.

Declare my own dignity and respect.

Own my right to live in peace.

Build character from the ground up.

And if ever...

The BIG BAD WOLF

was to come

and

try to blow my walls down...

HE HAS GOT ANOTHER THING COMING!

source

Take me as I am.

What do you wish people knew about you?

wish here

A Rolodex Epiphany

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:18:00 +0000

Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org
Discribes the definition of epiphany as a feeling.
A process of presenting objects in a way no one had thought to do before;
the result was intended to induce an epiphany of "what art is".

How about an epiphany of...

An Altered Rolodex

** Valentine **

created by: April Cole

Altered Rolodex Card Project

click here

photos - participating artist - project

http://www.flickr.com

Happy Tuesday!

Mini Journal

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:00:00 +0000

Okay, I have to admit.
I was sidetracked...
Didn't stay focused on what I was wishing to accomplish for the day...

I am a sucker for three things:
* Creating artful things out of reusable items. (recycle, reuse, recreate)
* Books of any kind! (book hoarder)
* Anything colorful (makes me happy)

Mini Journal

Created from recycled greeting cards.

Over the weekend, as I was visiting my favorite blogs...

I came across this fantastic video

on using your old greeting cards to create a mini journal.

Thank you

** Jennibellie **

http://jennibelliestudio.blogspot.com

I fell in love with this idea... so clever.

It literally took me minutes to make and there was no sewing involved!

Enjoy watching Jenny's video tutorials

HERE

Out of just a few cards

I was able to make this mini journal.

This will be used in my BOD journal.

***

Happy Monday!

Life... Just Enjoy The Show!

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 22:12:00 +0000

Sharing my thoughts for today.

Love this concept on life...

"The show" and " "I want my money back" are both metaphors.
Wanting my money back represents "time", the show represents "life".
No matter what...
In the end we can not get back time and we should simply enjoy living out our lives.
Enjoy your life and live for today.
Life is a journey and there is no need to get caught up in others dogma.
Live life to your fullest potential, loving yourself, and where you are at in life...
"Just enjoy the show!"

Happy Saturday!

Friday's Lovely Links

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:43:00 +0000

Enjoy your visit... and these delightful links.

***

Fabric Wrap Project

DIY

http://corrieberrypie.blogspot.com

Mixed- Media Canvas

Wonderful layouts and inspiration.

http://rondapalazzari.typepad.com

Paper Valentine's Day Cones

Delightful paper project.

http://mypaperlust.blogspot.com

Art Journaling

Sharing the beauty and wonder of art journaling.

Fantastic Art Journal community!

http://artjournaling.tumblr.com

Granny A Day
The 365 Project of Dana Beach

These are so sweet, lovely site!

http://craftyminx.typepad.com

Wish to learn how to crochet?

* Free Crochet Course *

http://www.craftyminx.com/crochet-school

Bookmark this link!

Happy Friday!

***

A Tribute To Mail Art - part 2

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:36:00 +0000

John Held Jr.

"I love getting this art in the mail... the mailbox is a museum,
so this is like going to the opening of a show."
I personally, could not have said it any better...!!
Enjoy this wonderful video.
If you have ever been on the fence about, sending out mail art...
I do hope this video will inspire you, give you new meaning, a purpose...
flat out, encourage you to... just DO IT!!

** Create Mail Art **

If you are interested in exchanging your art with John Held Jr.

click here

Thought I would share with you these...

Mail Art Envelopes

I really enjoy colorful envelopes. So much fun to create!

ATC's

For trade of coarse... it just isn't mail art without them!

What happy mail art will you be sending?

Happy Thursday!

***

Wishcasting Wednesday

artistaprilcole@gmail.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:19:00 +0000

What do you wish for your health and wellness?
This is not a subject I talk too much about... it's personal.
There isn't a cure and to this very day... there are still many physicians out there
who do not believe or are not willing to treat this chronic illness.
It is widely misunderstood and misdiagnosed!

* Fibromyalgia *

wikipedia

What do I wish for...

Make it go away!

Rid me of this illness... and the imprisonment that this has caused.

source

Through the years, I have lost more than you think...

A great career.

The ability to do the things, I once loved.

Friendships.

And yes... even family members.

They just do not want to understand!

Fibromyalgia...

Is chronic, widespread pain, muscle spasms, fatigue,

sleep disturbances, anxiety, headaches...

and

the list goes on and on!!

Are we having fun yet?

We look fine on the outside.

If only you knew... the storms we battle.

***

Wishing you all...

Happy Healthy Wednesday!

wishes here