ATA Girls: (All Those Artsy Girls)

New E Book to Inspire and Heal: Making Whole:Therapeutic Art Projects to Heal Your Soul

2014-07-31T05:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends!

We just wanted to share a great new e book on Kindle for fans of creative challenges that help you define and reflect upon who you are and what you are about.

Making Whole:Therapeutic Art Projects to Heal Your Soul is the fourth book on Art as Therapy published by Diane Fausek Steinbach and is a well-organized and detailed book featuring 19 new projects that will inspire deeper self-awareness and healing. Many of the process' can be addressed again and again over time with differing results, providing the artist with a look at their own emotional growth.
Great illustrations or samples, simple instructions and perfect to use for self-growth or with groups in a therapeutic setting, it's a MUST download!

Get it here! Making Whole:Therapeutic Art Projects to Heal Your Soul
for Kindle
For other readers try Smashwords here: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/463503

Eggsperiments don't always work!

2014-03-26T06:46:00.000-07:00

Easter is right around the corner… yes folks – it’s that time of year when egg artists around the world (myself included) get put their glitter and glue and work feverishly to produce fancy eggs for everyone to enjoy. For me – that not only includes putting together the IEAG (International Egg Art Guild) quarterly magazine, but working to increase my stock of saleable eggs.

I have a problem though, and it maybe one that every artist shares (comment if you agree). I get bored! I like to design and experiment, not do the same thing over and over. That means I haven’t settled into one style of egg art –but play around with everything. My show tables are definitely an eclectic mix of it all. For that matter – so are the stores!

Lately, I experimented with a new kind of colored egg kit that I found at the local Michael’s store. It had beautiful 14K gold glazed eggs in amazing colors. So – I thought – why not. Bought the kit and ran home to try it.

Now the kit showed gorgeous eggs in solid colors of gold, green, violet, pink and blue, all with the incredible gold sheen. I followed the directions exactly. Did I get what was advertised? Take a look……LOL.

The solid color just would not apply evenly to the egg shell, so I ended up being creative and did a kind of sponge painting on them. While pretty, not eggsactly what I anticipated.

Does that mean I stopped… nope. I broke out the washi paper, inks and egg wraps and went to work…. After all – I have a table and store to fill.

Anyone in the Rockford Illinois area can come see me this weekend (March 29 & 30, 2014) at the Rockford Egg Show and Sale. Held in the Midway Village & Museum (6799 Guilford, Rockford, IL), the show features some of the best Midwest egg artists displaying and selling their eggs, as well as suppliers selling miniatures and art supplies. A great place to spend an afternoon, the show is open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Stop in and say hello.

For directions – here is the link to the museum ( http://www.midwayvillage.com/wordpress/event-registration/?ee=6 )

Tell me what you are creating special for the holiday season!

Announcing new Etsy Store: My Murdock Designs LLC: Great Hand Made Bags and Totes and More

2014-01-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends, It might be a little early in the game, but My Murdock Designs LLC at Etsy is an ATA Girls favorite we wanted to share. A new endeavor by our friend Cynthia Frozena Monty, she will be selling handcrafted, original pattern designed and crafted bags, totes, jewelry, totes and even dog collars.

The idea for the business came from her love and loss of her beloved pet Murdock. Family member for over 14 years and best buddy, the loss of Murdock left Cindy with a void to fill and a wish to honor his memory in a creative way. My Murdock Design LLC was born.

Cindy started out as an artist, and art therapist, and although her path has taken her on a winding journey through a few healthcare/therapy jobs, raising three boys, and freelance sewing/design work -her passion shows in her work on My Murdock Designs.

Although the beautiful work and attention to detail is worth a visit alone, the backstory to this amazing business is worth another look. Get the tissues out... and read the local news story that talks about this unique relationship between Murdock and the Monty Family. Meanwhile, visit her store, and drop her a note of encouragement. We artists have to stick together!

Family had one last weekend with an aging friend

Murdock posed last fall with Cindy Monty and her sons, Christopher (from left), Noah and Benjamin.

Feb. 9, 2012

It was time. Murdock's hips were failing, his hearing was gone and other ravages of age had caught up with him.
So his family, the Monty family from Wauwatosa's west side, convened a tearful meeting at the dining room table. It was decided that they all - mom, dad and the three boys - would go with Murdock to the vet's office the following Monday and hold him close during the final moments of his life.
But first, they would spend the weekend doing the things Murdock liked best, spoiling him with treats and giving neighbors a chance to say goodbye.
Such is the love that people have for their dogs. This is not an uncommon story. That's the beauty of it. It happens all the time.
That Saturday, Jan. 21, they took 14-year-old Murdock to the sledding hill at Currie Park. He couldn't run and chase the kids like he used to, but he could remember those days.
Cindy and Joe Monty got this dog before any of their children were born. It was 1997 and they were vacationing in Door County when they saw a roadside sign for free puppies. All of the eight puppies were black and white except for one brown one. That's the one they took home, giving the owners some bakery in exchange.
The dog is a mix of malamute, black Lab and Australian shepherd. Joe came up with the name Murdock, after a loopy character on "The A-Team" TV show.
From the beginning, Murdock hardly ever barked, and he went everywhere with the family. The tellers at the drive-in bank got to know him by name. He carried a backpack and sat in the canoe during several trips the childless couple made to the Canadian side of the Boundary Waters.
The family grew. Christopher is 12, Noah is 11 and Benjamin is 9. Until now, they have never known life without Murdock.
On the final two nights with their dog, the whole family bedded down in sleeping bags in the living room to be close to Murdock. Saturday night they watched a movie together.
"Everyone said it had to be funny," Cindy said. "We could not watch 'Marley & Me' or anything like that. We watched 'Grumpy Old Men.' "
Murdock was given free access to a bowl of popcorn. Everyone slept right there on the floor.
On Sunday, they all went to Elm Grove Park, another favorite destination. When they got home, the boys pulled out Murdock's favorite toys from over the years. Then they made a steak dinner. Murdock didn't often get table food, but tonight he would have his own steak.
"He looked at us like, you gotta be kidding me. He ate it with gusto, and he hadn't been eating that terrifically in the weeks before. His hips were so weak that it was hard for him to stand at his bowl of food for any length of time," Cindy said.
Word got around about Murdock, and neighbors stopped over to say goodbye. Some brought comfort food. Murdock had a reputation as a friendly rover who would show up in people's yards. They said he would be missed.
Monday morning came. Joe, a UPS driver, had a day off, and Cindy didn't need to go in to the bakery where she works. The boys did not have school.
They decided to take Murdock on a last walk, even though it was rainy and dreary. They would skip the leash this time and let him lead.
In recent weeks, it was hard for Murdock to walk more than half a block. He used to love running along on bike rides, but it got to the point where Cindy would include him by putting a comfy pillow in the kids' bike trailer and pulling him behind her bike. Aging calls for compromise.
Limping along, Murdock led the family to Eisenhower Elementary School more than three blocks away. It was a walk he had done many times as Cindy accompanied the boys to school.
After they returned home, they toweled the dog dry and got in the minivan for the ride to Elmbrook Veterinary Clinic. Benjamin tried to comfort his mother by telling her, "It's the right thing to do." Cindy and Joe and the boys sat on a blanket on the clinic floor with Murdock. It was time.
When the weather warms up, they plan to bury Murdock's ashes in the yard and mark the spot with a concrete angel. In the meantime, they put his leftover treats in a bucket near the curb and urged neighbors to take them for their pets.
It's too soon to consider getting another dog, Cindy said. They will know when it's time.

Holiday Ornament Making : Zombies and (steam)Punks Everywhere!

2013-11-06T08:51:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone! Started work on my holiday gifts, and went all Zombie Nutcracker! What do you think? Also continued my trend from last year with the Steampunk snowmen and gals. Now all for sale at our store-envy site!

Nothing like a zombie-fied nutcracker to get you in the mood right? Want something custom? Email me at dianesteinbach@gmail.com

~Diane

Glitter Glitter Everywhere

2013-10-10T11:27:00.002-07:00

All glitter is not created equal. That’s what I have discovered lately. In the course of creating my Christmas Holiday ornaments for this year (yes folks, I did say Christmas!),

Winter Egg Ornament

I have been glittering my little heart out. After all – what’s not to love about a glittering egg ornament twirling on your holiday tree – right?

White Glitter with Gold Accents

There is clear glitter, big glitter, colored glitter and glue-glitter. In addition, there is big, regular, small, fine, ultra fine and ultra ultra fine. There is white glitter that is enhanced with slight color enhancements so that even though it goes on and looks white or clear, it sparkles with gold, green and blue accents.

Then there’s also vintage glass glitter that is larger, hard to find and available in only a few colors like copper and aqua. (I got mine from Martha Stewart YEARS ago!) And the colors - - ARGGGHHHHH ! How do I choose?

Velvet Glitter on Eggs

During my last trip to the Eastern Ohio Egg Art Show I picked up some new “velvet” glitter. OMG – I am in love. It is nothing like my regular old glitter and creates this beautiful velvet look to my egg ornaments.

But can I simply ignore my old standbys while I use this special glitter and the glue needed for that velvety look – or do I mix it up and use both? I’m SOOOO confused.

Colored Velvet Glitter

I have learned a trick however that allows you to glitter something and not have the glitter fall off. After gluing and glittering your item, let it dry completely, brush off any extra then apply a second layer of glue or some Mod Podge over the entire item. It will seal your glitter in and keep it from attaching itself to everything and everyone in the area. Try it and let me know what you think.

In the meantime – I’m going back to my craft room to make more glittering creations. Have a craft sale coming up and I think these sparkly beauties will be a hit!

Remember - there's only 76 days left til Christmas!

Dani

Art as Therapy.... Meditative Nature Art: Stone Cairns

2013-06-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,
Wanted to share this art therapy column ATA Girl Diane Steinbach wrote for another blog; Treasuringgrace.blogspot.com.

Her topic is the making of Stone Cairns, and it sounds like the perfect spring weekend project to get your head clear and find some peace in the chaos.
Check it out...

Making Whole: Healing Through Art: Stone Cairns

Making Whole is a bi-monthly art therapy column focused on art to heal.

A stone cairn is basically an elegant stack of stones, not held together by any mortar or cement. Found in ancient civilizations all over the globe, they are currently found in desert communities, hiking trails and used not only as an art form, but as navigational and ceremonial markers.

From larger stones at the base, to smaller stones on the top, the rocks towers can be placed in a single placement, or in groups, and in any location. Depending on the stone colors and shapes and the way the stones are stacked, the cairns convey an emotion or feeling to the viewer. For some reason, most people feel a connection to the cairns... do you?

Collect stones from local beaches, woods or anywhere you can find them. Pick out an indoor or outdoor area where you can safely construct your cairn. Feel free to use superglue or epoxy to hold your cairn together especially if you have pets or children around who may bump or topple your cairn.

Stack the stones into a cairn. Make one or a grouping of cairns.

Process:

The act of creating the cairns is a meditative process that connects us to the earth in a healing and peaceful way.

Guerilla Art: How Art Therapy and Guerilla Art Can Set You Free!

2013-05-16T14:43:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends, we just wanted to share this bi-monthly column by one of our ATA Girls on the Treasuring Grace blog to share the inspiration. Its about an art therapy process that involves giving away your artwork... kind of Guerilla Art.... meant to help artists release their emotional baggage along with the canvas...
Check it out. What do you think?

Making Whole: Healing Through Art: Found Hope (Love,Courage, Peace,...) Guerilla Art

by Diane Steinbach

Making Whole is a bi-monthly art therapy column focused on art to heal.

We have talked about Guerrilla art here before. Basically it is the concept of bringing art into the community in an unexpected way. Usually it involves big, bold artistic statements, but in this case, it is more about a generous sharing of handmade art and a simple message to a stranger that is a gift to the art maker and the surprised recipient.

Making art is a deeply personal expression for most of us, and because of this, the act of giving it away, to a stranger...indeed, to leave it behind is both terrifying and liberating. This art therapy process challenges the artist to consider a concept on a personal, emotional level, and then share it with a stranger. By creating something meaningful, then lovingly gifting it away, the artist can work through issues of loss in other areas of their lives.

You'll need: Small art canvases between the sizes of 4x6 to 8x10" on hard board, acrylic paints, brushes, water, Pens, high quality writing paper, dry glue sticks

Choose a word that reflects something that is important to you: Hope, Courage, Love, Peace, Faith, Joy, Friendship, Mercy, Forgiveness etc.

On the small canvas, paint an abstract expression of that word using color, line and movement. Use the entire canvas area, covering it entirely. Let it dry.

Once dry, paint the word your chose boldly somewhere on the canvas, over the painting. Allow to dry.

Pick up the paper and pen. Cut the paper down to the size of the canvas. Write the word "Found" followed by the word you chose to represent on the front of the canvas. (so, you'd have "Found Love, or Found Forgiveness, Found Courage etc.

Read the rest at : http://treasuringgrace.blogspot.com/2013/05/making-whole-healing-through-art-found.html

Eggs Eggs Everywhere and not a one to eat!

2013-03-14T13:31:00.001-07:00

It's getting close to that holiday that makes every Egg Artist's heart go pitter patter.... Easter. Now that's not to say that egg decorating is only for Easter... oh no - it's an all year round passion that includes conventions, shows, clubs and even an international guild. That's right folks - Egg Art is EVERYWHERE!!!

What can you do with an egg? (you ask innocently) Anything you want - it just takes a bit of imagination. There's the traditional egg decorations like Pysanky; incredible jeweled eggs inspired by Fabrege; carved eggs; beaded eggs; jeweled eggs; dyed eggs; painted eggs; eggs that are open with dioramas inside (like the old sugar eggs); eggs that are made into jewel boxes; you name it - you can do it to an egg.

Even Steampunk is making it's way into the egg art world. Diane and I are having a back and forth exploration of the world of steampunk - as many of you have noticed. This is my latest try. I elaborated on it a bit, as Steampunk to the artists of the Guild (of which I am now 2nd Vice President and Newsletter editor!) and the rest of the world can mean 2 different things. I toned down a bit, added a little bling bling (because everyone loves some sparkly) and came up with this ornament just in time for the holiday. (warning- obnoxious self promotion occurring now) They will soon be on my Etsy and Store Envy sites - links on this page - along with all my other springtime creations available for quick sale now in time for Easter! (phwww that's over with - on to the rest of the article!).

From Ostridge to Finch and everything in between, eggs are everywhere. The White House receives one from every state, created by artists across the country, and holds a ceremony where they are put on display just in time for Easter. So.. what does my house look like right about now? You REALLY don't want to know - but I can show you the display on my desk!

So - what are you doing with your eggs for Easter. By the way - you can make a really great custard with all the innerds after blowing out all those eggshells!

by Dani

Steampunk Raven Sculpture

2013-02-16T12:02:00.001-08:00

When thinking of what to make my friend for her birthday, I thought about creating something funky for her house, which is now being renovated. As we both kind of lean towards "the dark side" I picked up some raffia covered wire and started to play around with a framework skeleton of a raven.

The raven symbol is a good luck symbol in some cultures, while others find it to be a creepy and unsettling symbol ala Hitchcock's "The Birds." Me? I think of them as kind of a mix of all the iconic imagery, and a good place to start for my steampunk gift.

I started to bend the wire into the raven shape, much like a dimensional contour drawing.

Then, I spray painted the covered wire black.

Next, I began to build up the "skeleton" with gears and twiddly bits to replicate eyes, vertebra and the layers of the birds wing feathers.

Overall the effect is steampunkilicious, I think. What do you think?

What Drives You To Create?

2013-02-04T08:19:00.001-08:00

I received an e-newsletter from Weaving Today and the title was "What Drives Us to Weave?" It's an excellent post and I would encourage everyone to read it for it discussed what drove the writer to take up the craft. It got me thinking (as any good post should) about what drives those of us who live to craft and create artwork to actually work on art and crafty projects.

For me - a large part of what drives me is the desire to create something. It's not just making something fun - which every project I do inevitably is - but a real need to make something from nothing. It doesn't matter if the material is foodstuff, beads, yarn, eggs, paper, paint or any other of the myriad of possibilities. The actual act of creation is what I'm driven to accomplish.

I also find that when I am not able to work on something I can get very "testy" (as my better half so carefully puts it). Leo actually asked me just last weekend when I was going to paint again. Now I don't know if he was genuinely curious or if it was his way of saying "you need to chill out!" but he was absolutely correct in questioning me. Life can get away from us as we rush here and there trying to get as much accomplished as possible so it doesn't all pile up into a huge mountain of things that have to get done. The whole process of creation makes us slow down to consider the possibilities of what we are making and how to make what our imaginations have come up with.

So my question for this post to all of you out there is - What drives you to create? Post a comment below to start our conversation.

image:

License: Some rights reserved by Maria & Michal P.

Wood Hearts for Valentines Day

2013-01-21T09:56:00.001-08:00

Next Stop - Valentine's Day!

Well - we covered Mardi Gras (2/12/13) last time - so we are moving on to Valentine's Day. I decided to try something different this year....partly because - I admit - I'm bored with the normal Valentine's Day stuff. There's only so much red, candy, and flowers a girl can take! Also - I REALLY didn't want to take down my Christmas (now Holiday) tree. I love the look of the lights in the window when I come home - it just lends a festive atmosphere to the house. So - I decided to do a Valentine's tree!

I started this weekend with a trip to the craft store to purchase a bunch of die-cut wood hearts. I found the wood ones, some tin, and a bunch of different paper punches to use as well. JACKPOT. Breaking out my other craft supplies I started making ornaments for my tree.

First - I wanted some garland to hang - so I punched a bunch of hearts out of patterned paper, added some glitter and attached them to some red ribbon with hot glue! - So cool!

Next came the ornaments. I started with the wood die-cuts as they would take the longest to dry. I painted some and stamped others. I took some pastel markers and started adding color as well as putting some sparkly dots and texturized paint to give them more pizzazz. (Three of them are shown here). I also painted then started to bead a few. Once they are dry - I'll be adding some eye hooks to the top and on the tree they'll go.

In addition I took some additional scrapbook paper and punched all different sized hearts, that I added ribbon loops to for hanging. I'm in the process of decorating those now. And you know there will have to be an egg or two coming.

All in all - the tree is beginning to look very festive. As soon as it's done I'll shoot another picture and post. Start making your own ornaments and send me a link, comment or picture so we all can see what you've come up with.

Now -- where's that box of chocolate!

Dani

Mardi Gras Decorated Egg

2013-01-07T09:20:00.001-08:00

Another Holiday - OH MY!

It’s just the beginning of 2013 and already the year seems to be passing so fast. One holiday season is over and another is just around the corner. Hard to believe that Mardi Gras is Feb 12, Valentine’s Day is Feb 14^th and Easter I coming up fast. So many artsy things to make and soooo little time!

I thought I’d start with Mardi Gras this week and work my way through – so be prepared people! I LOVE Mardi Gras. Now keep in mind that I’m located in the cold northern state of Wisconsin and have never actually been down to New Orleans for this great celebration but I love it all the same. The colors, costumes and parades, not to mention the stories and traditions just boggle my brain. This means, of course, that I need to come up with cool things to make and do.

First, I’d like to share with you this really great egg. Originally purchased from Gerry Meyer, I was fascinated with her combination of beads, glitter and decoupage to decorate it – so had to make some myself. I think it expresses the fun and spirit of the celebration and is the highlight of my Easter Egg tree. (More of my Easter Eggs, including this one, can be found in the Etsy store or in the ATA Girl Store.)

Another great tradition is the throwing of beads. This is a fun project for anyone to make and enjoy. Simply find some colorful beads and some ribbon. String the beads on the ribbon and tie a bow with the ends. You now have Mardi Gras beads you can wear and display!

Great food is also a tradition at Mardi Gras which is also “fat Tuesday” before the start of Lent. King Cakes, for example, are made of a cinnamon filled dough in the shape of a hollow circle. The cake is topped with glaze and then sprinkled with purple (representing Justice), Green (representing Faith) and Yellow (representing Power) colored sugar. Somewhere inside a King Cake is baked a plastic baby. Tradition dictates that whoever finds the baby holds next year’s party. A great recipe for this can be found at: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/mardi-gras-king-cake/.

More holiday goodies to come – stay tuned!

Customize your LightSwitches: Easy Modge Podge Project

2012-12-26T15:06:00.001-08:00

I recently moved into a new home and in setting up my new home-office I decided to take my private space personalization up-a-notch. Since I was going to be able to stay in this home for more than my normal 6 months or a year stint, I re-painted and considered how to funkify my office space. While I waited for the wall-paint to dry I considered the dull, plastic light switch on the wall and thought, "I can do better."

I have seen painted and decoupage'd light switches online and they are truly the fastest and easiest art project you can do to customize a room in less than a few hours. Think about the overall style of the room decor and then collect some images, text or whatever and start gluing or painting that simply wall plate.

For mine, I started by spray painting my white plastic light switchplate a metallic iron/coppery color to match my dark "drama" wall in the room.

Since my office is where I do my writing, and my overall decor in the room was going to consist of vintage photographs, old typewriters and other related stuff like that, I decided to print out some old photos, and use an old typewriter font to print out the definition for the words "illuminate" and "darkness" since it was a light switch. Get it? Clever huh?

I ripped the paper and crinkled it so that it looked old, and used an old photo (of myself, cause I was so cute) and applied them to the plastic wall plate with Modge Podge. I added a final coat on top to seal the whole project when everything was in place.

The final project turned out kind of cute... a subtle artistic touch that reflects my love of language and the other vintage photos in the room.

Get creative today, just grab that switch plate off the wall and get started!

Happy Holidays from ATA Girls

2012-12-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

Holiday Wishes

I don't know about all of you, but I use this holiday time to do some reflection. With only 5 days remaining until Christmas is here and only 11 days remaining of 2012, it is the best time for me to take a minute or two out of the hustle and bustle of the season to sit down and just breathe. As big fluffy flakes of frozen water descend from the sky to coat everything in a blanket of white, a silence falls over the wintery world. Isn't it wonderful! The sounds of cars traveling on snow covered roads becomes the gentle crunch of tires moving slowly through the drifts. All is quiet.

This is the time of winter I love best. Just after a big snowfall, before the snowplows come barreling through, before the sounds of shovels hitting pavement and snowblowers roaring down driveways. It's the perfect time to sit by the window with a cup of hot chocolate (and a cookie or two), look out at the world and think about the past year. What am I thankful for? What do I wish I had accomplished? What regrets do I have? What can I do better?

This year I have much to be thankful for. I'd like to say a big THANK YOU to my sister, Diane, who is the developer of this beautiful blog and does all of the behind the scenes stuff that makes the page, facebook page and ATA girl store come together. She's an ATA girl with fingers in many pots of paint, able to create works of artsy goodness with a snap of her fingers. She's given me an outlet for my writing and allowed me to let my creative juices flow so that this blog can be filled with cool things for you all to read. I'm thankful for all the wonderful ATA girls and guys I've met, some of whom I've been able to share with you here. I'm also thankful for our many followers and friends that have "liked" us here or on our facebook page. Your support has been a guiding force for our endeavors.

So to all of you who take the time to visit our page, support our stores, and enjoy our projects.... we wish you a Merry Holiday Season and a Safe and Happy New Year.

Dani

Pecan FIngers! Christmas Cookies

2012-12-10T09:43:00.002-08:00

15 Days and Counting

Can you believe it - -only 15 days left until all the excitement is over! I know - I've been crowing about the fact that all my Holiday pressies have been bought or made and wrapped up ready to go. And now (thanks to a 3am start time on Sunday) all my cookies and treats are done and in containers ready to be shipped off or presented in person. Since I'm in the cookie mood - thought I'd share a favorite with you all.

Our family has always LOVED these cookies. These finger-sized pieces of powered sugar delights are easy to make with few ingredients and one of our family staples. At least until I can master the Hungarian Butterhorns Aunt Rosie used to always make - just can't get them quite right! Anyhow - here's a recipe for you to try.

Pecan Fingers

Cream together:

1 cup butter

¼ cup powdered sugar

¼ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla

1 tblspn water

Mix in:

2 cups flour

2 cups ground pecans

Heat oven to 350

Make finger shapes by taking 1 large tsp of dough and rolling it into an oblong in the palms of your hands. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. May be placed close together as cookies do not raise.

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until slightly brown on edges

Immediately roll warm cookies in powdered sugar and place on wire rack to cool

Makes 5-8 dozen depending on size.

Enjoy -- and yes Diane - I made enough for you! Happy Holidays everyone!

Hand Made Holiday Cards

2012-11-30T08:09:00.001-08:00

Only 25 days til Christmas!

Not long ago I wrote a post telling everyone how far ahead I was in the Holiday present preparation area. Well... I lied! Not really - but come on - even those of us who make most of our presents and have worked diligently over the past 10 months to make sure everything is done in time can run into problems. The baked goods haven't even been thought of, and while most presents are done I completely forgot about the Holiday cards!

I, in my infinite wisdom, decided to once again make my Holiday cards. Am I smart enough to use all those wonderful stamps and paper I bought last year? Nope! I had to come up with a different kind of card and decided I was going to paint snow scenes on flat board canvas and send those out as my cards this year. I do admit that there aren't that many that we actually send out - so I don't have a lot to make. However I did not allow for drying time - as of course I have to do these in OIL!!! GRRRR Between trying to find the time to actually paint them to spreading them near the radiators in my craft room so they can dry just a little faster, I am tearing my hair out!

I went through all my old pictures for ideas that weren't already floating around in my head. After clipping them to my project board where i could see them all at one crack - I tried to do multiple boards at one time. Painting on an assembly line works - sure it does! You put the gesso on all the boards first - then lay in the skies, trees, snow etc on each one after the other. After all - you are using the same colors on the brush for each ... right? WRONG!

My problem was that they were looking exactly alike. I might as well BUY the cards instead of making them. After all these are kind of the presents for these people - at least that was the idea! Something for them to have and to hold and sell for megabucks when I become a famous arteest. I'm only thinking about their future you know! As with any good painting - each has to be created separately - to allow the creative juices to flow. But how many snow scenes can I put onto canvas at one time... I just can't paint the same type of thing over and over and over again.

I think I had better get out the stamps and paper before it's too late!

~ Dani

Art and Craft Fairs - Oh the Humanity!

2012-11-12T08:49:00.001-08:00

With the holidays fast approaching, the number of art and craft shows are increasing. I decided to write this post not only as a nod to fellow artists and hopefully new "ATA Girls", but as a reminder to everyone that most artists and craft people make a living from these shows and our support is necessary to keep the inspiration flowing. With the "shop local Saturday" looming on November 24th - I would like everyone to include artists everywhere in this number. Whether at a art show, craft shop or on-line - purchasing handmade and handcrafted items help support our community. Now that my "preaching" is over - here's some fun things!

I attended the Brookfield East High School Holiday Arts & Craft Fair this weekend (located in Brookfield, WI) and was pleasantly surprised with the large number of artisans and crafters who had booth, not to mention the number of people attending. We arrived early and just look at the line 30 minutes before the show opened - those are some dedicated shoppers!

I found some wonderful items - some of which I can't mention until AFTER someone (Diane) receives her birthday present. Can't spoil the surprise now can I!. However - I did come across many wonderful artists - some of which agreed to let me feature them in today's post.

Meet - Deanna Peterson of Bright As Day Designs! I was floored by these pieces of fabric art that she has created. Purses, clutches, book covers and more adorned her booth in vibrant colors and designs. Each one a separate piece of art. In talking to Deanna the one thing that struck me was she when she told me that she was never able to do the normal art like painting or drawing - but when she started to work with fabric the inspiration just came! Take a look at just a few samples of her work. I specially love the "cottage" purse. The front looks like the front door of a cottage, while the back had the back of the house and a trellis with beaded flowers adorning it! Amazing. Welcome to the world of ATA Girls Deanna. More of her inspired designs can be found at www.brightasdaydesigns.com. Check her out!

Another wonderful artist I found at the show is Rosemary Schires. What incredible designs she creates with beads. I was just amazed and found myself coming back again and again just to look at her items for sale.She told me that often she is up all night with her designs speeding through her brain just waiting to pour out from her fingertips. While she also does other art - she feels shes found her niche with beads. I completely agree! Take a look below. If you are interested in contacting Rosemary - drop me a line and I'll put her in contact with you!

One final note - as with any artwork or craft highlighted anywhere on the web - please be aware that these designs are the property of the artist and should not be copied or duplicated without the artist's permission. Hence the first time we've used the "copyright" symbol on our photos for this post. This is the way artists earn their living and "swiping" the designs and ideas from them can do serious damage to their livelihood. Please be respectful of their incredibly inspirational ideas. Thanks and don't forget to shop your favorite artists for your holiday gifts this year!

You're Gonna BUY That? Make it Yourself!: Beaded Holiday Decorations

2012-11-04T15:20:00.000-08:00

Has anyone other than me, myself and I drooled over holiday decorations (while frantically writing down descriptions and taking pictures) as soon as they are placed on the shelves. After all, why on earth would I spend $10 - $50 on something I'm sure I can make myself! I see you all shaking your heads at me. Yes, I realize it wouldn't be just that small amount because, of course, you need to have lots of each of them in order to make things look "right", not to mention all the accessories that you need to keep the themed look flowing throughout your entire tree, room, house, neighborhood........ (you get my drift here, right?)

How easy are beaded garlands..... I mean really! I made mine by taking jewelery wire and stringing beads of various sizes on it, making sure to "loop" the ends and seal them with a crimp bead. I used silver seed beads to make the smallest strings, some red shiny bugle beads I had left to make some accent garlands, and some Czech glass beads in various sizes of the same color to make a fancier garland. I KNOW I saved myself a couple of hundred dollars - I just KNOW I did!

And don't talk to me about those beautiful beaded icicles that dangled from all the fancy display trees. I took some more jewelry wire, found my stash of different sized AB and clear Swarovski crystals and strung them, smallest on the bottom to the largest on top. I also had some unused head pins that allowed me to make some in different sizes and still allow them to hang nicely on the branches of my tree.

To top it all off - I went a little crazy (I know you all think I am already!) and made beaded snowflakes.... take that Martha! I love the look of these. I've placed the pattern in our ATA girls store, and have also placed some of the extras I made up for sale (have to support the beading habit after all!).

I've already found the cool decorations I'm planning on making this year.... wait until you see it! The craft table will be busy making these cool things - not to mention the egg ornaments, steampunk ornaments, holiday cards, paintings, and who knows what else will come to mind before the holidays.

Did I mention the 10 dozen cookies that will need to be made too. I think I need a clone!

Dani

Wordless Wednesday: Introducing Homer

2012-10-31T07:58:00.000-07:00

We've been so busy creating interesting things to share with everyone, we haven't really taken any time to introduce ourselves to you. I'd like to start by introducing the most interesting member of our family, Homer.

Homer is a Havanese and, in the 2 years he's been a part of our family, he's entrenched himself in our lives and hearts. Given to me by a former boss who could no longer keep him, he joined us at about 8 months old.

Technically a companion for our father (who really didn't want a companion!), he is probably the smartest four-legged person our family has ever had. The breed is known for being gentle and, although I scoffed at the idea, not barking.

It took 2 months before we heard a sound out of him.

I think he realized that "grandpa" couldn't hear him (the doorbell, the phone, someone knocking, etc.) and so he took to standing at the base of whatever chair Dad was sitting in and "woofing" up at him. When that didn't work - standing on his hind legs and putting his front feet on Dad's legs along with the "woof" did.

He is an absolute joy and has become Dad's constant companion. When we take Homer on "vacation" or to Doggy Daycare, there's always a phone call that begins with Dad singing "Oh where oh where has my Homer gone... Bring back, bring back oh bring back my Homer to meeeeeee!"

The pictures here were taken one day when "grandpa" and "daddy" were heading to the store together, leaving me "mom" alone with our little guy.

Picture one - -- ok Mom - where did they go and why didn't they take me!

Picture two - - you said they'd be right back -- where are they?

Halloween Skeleton Flying Army!

2012-10-26T08:13:00.003-07:00

I know it seems like we've completed bypassed a couple of holidays with all of our talk of ornaments, snowmen, trees and decorations.... but I think we've saved the best for this week. In the spirit of Halloween...let me introduce you to my SKELETON FLYING ARMY!

Yes folks - I took my inspiration from a skeleton fairy I bought Diane (who loves all things macabre!) this summer. I thought - why not... afterall - I'll need something to combat the march of the zombie nutcrackers that are sure to make an appearance on our blog soon. So here they are.

So easy to make - I took apart a skeleton garland I found and attached some appropriate colored butterfly wings to their backs. Then it was just a case of raiding my stash of art supplies for accessories. I added steampunk weapons to sashes and even created a steampunk shield for another. Have to come up with some good names though..after all, how can I direct my defenses if I can't call them by name? Any ideas?

I know it's late - but if you're interested in picking up one or two to fight your own battles - check our our ATA girl store. With luck - they'll be flying into your home in time to battle your own ghosts and goblins!

http://atagirls.storenvy.com/

SteamPunk Christmas Tree Ornament

2012-10-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

You know what they say, once you start steampunking... you just can't stop, (ok, maybe I am the only one that says that.) Once you get used to putting on and taking off your bifocals one hundred million times and gluing your fingers together while putting vintage watch gears on a small wood snowman or jewelery box, you get addicted to the whole Victorian, Science Fiction look of the Steam Punk Movement.

Previously we shared with you my work on a wooden SteamPunk egg and snowman, and my work on Holiday offerings for our ATA Girl Store Envy storefront is continuing and I wanted to share my work with you, our friends.

Lately, I have been working on the rest of the SteamPunk Snow family, including a SteamPunk Snowbroad (or Snowlady) and Snowbaby; complete with gear teddy bear. Cute hey?

The same basic ways and means of making them as explained in our Steampunk Snowman process applies here, painting and sealing the wooden snowman ornaments, then applying the gears with a super glue adhesive.

I decided to expand the line a little with a Wooden SteamPunk decorated Christmas Tree, also an ornament and I like the way it is developing.

We added a little more glitz to the trees, using a red or green base color then topping it off with a glitter so that the trees bounce some light from your own holiday lights when displayed. I used some decoupaged lettering on the trees, in this case some text from "The Night Before Christmas" and some typewriter key font to spell out Noel on another in-progress.

The use of tiny watch parts and gears to replicate tree ornaments puts this SteamPunk piece over the top and makes it a fun, (if not eye-crossing) project.

Not into using tweezers to make art? No worries. Support your ATA Girls and purchase them at our StoreEnvy site here. ~ Diane

Egg Dioramas: The Traditional Holiday Ornament

2012-10-05T07:58:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile - but i thought I'd ramp things up again with a little lesson on Eggs. With the holiday season fast approaching - my fingers are flying and the creative juices are flowing as I work on getting my Winter egg collection going. What - you may ask - could I possibly make from eggs that would be appropriate for the winter holidays? Well - read on my friends and bask in my artistic endeavors (ok - just a bit overdone - but it's late LOL )

I've taught many classes for young and old alike during the months up to the Christmas holidays and every time my students are just amazed at what they've created in just a few hours. Now that doesn't include all the prep work I've done for them before hand - but you get my drift. I usually stick to duck and goose eggs as they seem to be the perfect height for hanging.

I love the look of winter scenes with birds and deer running through them. While I often use red birds that resemble cardinals, I've taken to coordinating my bird and outside designs and have expanded my selection to purple and blue. The birds scene here actually match the color of the poinsettia I've added to the outside of the egg.

And of course, blue birds look best with silver accents.

I've also played with larger eggs. This ostridge egg, for example, is one I taught last year at the Ohio Egg Artist show and turned out really well. This one also has 2 matching goose egg ornaments so it makes a great combination.

These diorama eggs are probably some of my favorites to make as I love the glittery, icy look to them.

I've placed some of these egg ornaments in our ATA girl store as well as in the Etsy store. Stop by and take a look. If you have any questions - just give me a shout. It's never too late to plan for the holidays.

SteamPunk Snowman

2012-09-13T12:07:00.004-07:00

I have always looked at things a little differently, so the Steampunk movement (the blend of Victorian and SciFi styles) has always appealed to me.

A few weeks ago I posted about the SteamPunk Egg I made my sister, ATA Girl, Dani and I enjoyed making it so much that when my friends and fellow art therapists came to visit me over the Labor Day weekend I planned an art experience for them involving Steampunk materials.

They are all so creative, I wasn't sure what they would want to work on, so I provided a few options of plain, unpainted paper mache' and wood ornament and picture frames to do some Steam Punky collage work on.

They all chose the picture frames to work on (which turned out great, sorry I didn't get any pics) and so I did a snowman ornament, which lent itself perfectly to a mechanized punky treatment.

I started by painting the whole snowman black, then adding on some metallic copper accents to look like doors and metal plates. I then used decoupage glue and ripped up some small copies of classic Leonardo da Vinci illustrations and applied them to the surface of the snowman for more interest. I applied a coating of Modge Podge glue over the whole snowman to seal it and add shine.

Once dry, I build up the surface with vintage watch parts to mimic classic snowman elements like eyes, buttons and I made a scarf out of copper wire and watch parts.

Not artistically inclined but love the little steamy snowman or know someone that would? No worries! I will make one for you! Order from the ATA Girl Store Envy site (see large Button at upper right hand side of blog) or email me at dianesteinbach@gmail.com. Each snowman may be slightly different as they are all handmade. $25.00 a piece. Come in either primarily black (as shown) or copper with black accents.

~ Diane

Spark Your Creativity Now
(http://pinandtack.blogspot.com)

Not Just for Breakfast Anymore... Egg Art

2012-09-07T05:13:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take a little bit of your time to introduce you to one of my favorite art forms - Egg Art. Not just your typical egg dyeing that you normally do around the spring holidays - Egg Art encompasses many different styles. Egg decorating has been around for centuries, and many of those early techniques and traditions are continued today by artists around the world. Just about anything you can imagine can be done to an egg.

The International Egg Art Guild (IEAG) website (http://www.eggartguild.org/) is a great place to start learning about the different forms of Egg Art. More than twenty-five years ago Kit Stansbury put the wheels in motion to form a society where artists could discuss, share and exchange ideas, and promote egg decorating as an art form. Now, with membership in the guild worldwide, they have created a flourishing Masters Program to help anyone wishing to improve their artistry and technique. The artform is flourishing, and nowhere is this better experienced than at an Egg Art Show.

All around the world, egg artists and suppliers gather at a show to hold classes and display their individual art to any who wish to see. The IEAG website has a list of the shows held each year. There is no better place to experience all the various types of Egg Art than at one of these shows. Suppliers are available as well, providing a hands-on opportunity for visitors to purchase kits, miniatures, eggs and tools. Many Egg Artists also display and sell their work at local art shows and shops.

With the invention of the internet - Eggs have gone viral. A search on the words Egg Art on Google recently pulled up over 72,000 hits. Searching on the words Pysanky (a wax resist method), Carl Fabergè, Ostridge Eggs, Emu Eggs, Rhea Eggs, Carved eggs, etc will bring up lists of suppliers, artists from around the world, and general information. One such artist is Lorrie Popow, a Master Egg Artist who has recently placed her training sessions on Youtube for everyone to enjoy.

Lorrie is definitely one of our finest ATA Girls, and we are proud to be able to place the link to her videos on our sight for everyone to experience.

Craft Gadgets: Feed Your Need

2012-09-03T05:37:00.000-07:00

I love gadgets. Specially crafty ones. For example, I was at the WI State Fair recently (a gadget lovers paradise!) and came across a ribbon maker. WOW - that demonstrator was talented... she made some incredible package decorations. I had my credit card out and arms outstretched as Leo (in his infinite wisdom remember all the other gadgets I've purchased over the years that are sitting collecting dust) grabbed me by the waist and dragged me away. I still wipe away a tear when I think of it. sniff sniff if only I had been quicker I could have gotten the website to order it!

My gadget fetish is not only limited to crafty things though. While at the same State Fair (on the same trip) I spotted this little beauty   - the Miracle Whisk (http://www.themiraclewhisk.com/). Just think - in only 5 seconds you can whip up milk that's just perfect for at home cappucino, 10 minutes you can make meringue or whipped cream. Oh MY! Even better - it's stainless steel so Leo HAD to let me buy it. LOL (it's still in the box!)

And my gadget craze is not limited to live demonstrations. Who would have thought that the internet would allow me to indulge my addiction without even trying. I received an e-mail about this product just perfect for scrapbooking, paper projects and I'm thinking - even my egging. It's called the "Stamping Gear" (http://www.eksuccessbrands.com/Inkadinkado/Videos/Stamping_Gear--Join_the_Revolution!.htm) and I LOVE it. It lets you use your stamps and make arched designs with them without trying to figure out placement - what could be better. I even watched the little on-line demonstration over and over and over again.

I'm sure I can sneak this one in the house. Maybe it will come in a plain brown box so no one will know.