Three Muses

Moving on....

noreply@blogger.com (Miss Phillips) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 19:35:00 +0000

As we Muses continue to grow, we are leaving Three Muses to follow our own paths. Robin is now teaching art in public schools full time, and loves being in the classroom. I'm going solo under the name Meristem Studio. I'm happy to announce a new Etsy shop, new blog, and within a few months, a new website. I will continue to blog about my own work and creative processes, local art happenings, and other amazing artists at the Meristem Studio blog.

Thank you so much for reading and supporting not only the artists of Three Muses, but all of the indie artists and crafters we've shared in this blog. I look forward to seeing you at Meristem Studio!

Peace,

MoniqueWe Could Not Keep Her

Screenprint on paper by Monique Phillips

Indie Artist Spotlight: Kristin Leamy of Meanbean

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:09:00 +0000

I recently had the opportunity to chat with Kristin Leamy of Meanbean. Meanbean bags are a favorite among crafters for their versatility. Owners of Meanbean bags describe them as "high quality" products made with "exciting" fabric, and praise Kristin for her excellent communication and super friendliness. With business practices like this, it's no wonder Kristin is selling Meanbean bags all over her home state of Oregon and the world wide web. Read what she has to say about doing what she loves as a business.

Tell us about you and Meanbean. What do you create?

I make fun little bags that can work alone, or as mini-bags inside the purse you already carry. Often they’re used by needle crafters as project bags and notion bags, but of course can be used for anything!

Custom Broad Beanlet available at Meanbean.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this? How did you get started?
I’ve been sewing alongside my mom since I was about 8 or 9 years old, but about 4 years ago, I was given a sewing machine of my own, and caught the bug! I was on Craftster.org a lot in those days, and happened upon a fun little tutorial about making a small gathered purse. By the time I’d finished the tutorial, I understood the mechanics of putting them together, and realized it’s the same, regardless of shape. I began experimenting, and have been playing with shapes and colors ever since.

Retro Hawaii Lima Bean available at Meanbean.etsy.com

How did you learn your craft?
Growing up, my mom made a lot of clothing and toys, aprons, etc for me. Of course, I wanted to see how she did it, etc. She and my dad have always encouraged the creative, curious side of everyone they meet. Various crafts I tried, leading up to sewing, included latch hook rugs, cross stitch, crochet and a brief stint in embroidery.

Do you do this fulltime? If not, what else do you do for a living?
Unfortunately, I am not running Meanbean full time…YET! One day, though. For a living, I work at an aftermarket performance parts shop (for people to make their cars go faster) as the accounting department.

Do the two jobs impact each other?
So far, aside from not being home all day to create and market, there’s a good relationship between my two jobs. I’ve been lucky enough to be able to take home boxes and packing material that would otherwise be recycled, and upcycle them into shipping materials for my bags. I dream of the day that I am running Meanbean full time!

Who are your inspirations or influences?
I think it’s mostly my daughter – she’s colorful in personality and in what she chooses, and it’s rarely something that would traditionally “go together”, which appeals to me a lot.

Bright Squares Broad Bean available at Meanbean.etsy.com

What do you do besides make awesome things?
Make other awesome things!! I knit and crochet, read voraciously, indulge in random reality TV, go to movies, play Rockband with my husband and kiddo, and throw down the occasional competitive board game.

What is your favorite creation from your shop? Why?
The Beanlet Sets, by far. They’re very versatile, and super cute, and with the current trend of larger bags, makes grabbing just your essentials super easy.

Custom Beanlet Set available at Meanbean.etsy.com

What is your favorite handmade possession?
My husband’s crafty too, and I doubt I could choose just one, but of the top ten list, I think the collaged box he gave me in high school that now holds all our love notes (from high school) is my most treasured.

How do you promote your business?
Word of mouth is the best, but also I make sure my friends have a couple of business cards, I talk about the new stuff I’m making, have made or have gotten on my blog, I’m on Ravelry, as my bags appeal to knitters and crocheters as well, and just recently I was approved to be added to the Bust Girl Wide Web!

Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Don’t be afraid to talk about your stuff!!! Honestly this is probably the thing that’s gotten me the most business. It sounds trite, but it’s totally true – BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU DO. If you believe your product is so totally awesome that person X just HAS to hear about it, they’ll WANT to hear about it when you start talking, because you’ll be excited. It’s contagious, and it gets the word out!

Surprise Messenger Bag by Meanbean.etsy.com
(Interior shown, with tons of room, and plenty of pockets to keep you organized!

Where else can we find you and Meanbean?
Oh boy, ok. I’m on Facebook, there’s a fan group called Meanbean Bags. I’m on Etsy at meanbean.etsy.com. Also on DaWanda at meanbean.dawanda.com. As for"brick and mortar" stores, I’m also at Twisted, a yarn shop in Portland, Oregon, at 28^th and Broadway of the Hollywood district. The bags are also at Menucha Conference Center, in Corbett, OR, and at the Lorang Fine Arts Gallery, in Hood River, OR.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
I plan to never grow up. Or, Batman.

Skulls in Love Little Bean (silk lined) available at Meanbean.etsy.com

Etsy Treasures: Hello, Cupcake!

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:58:00 +0000

After weeks of waiting, weeks of having my heart skip a bit as I passed by the covered storefront... Hello Cupcake finally opened.

Hello Cupcake is a new bakery in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, dedicated to, yes, the cupcake. I'm so glad the cupcake craze has hit DC. There's something special about the cupcake... adorable and individual servings of cake and frosting, in imaginative combinations... and you don't even have to share. Unless, of course, you want to. The cupcake is a beautiful thing.

The grand opening was today, and I stood in line, watching entire display cases full of cupcakes walk out of the door. When my turn came, there were only two flavors left to choose from - Root Beer Float and Triple Coconut. I bought one of each, and a portable pink cupcake holder. After all, I knew I'd return.

And no, I didn't eat both cupcakes. I took one to a bon voyage happy hour and gave it to the guest of honor, after he agreed to let me have a taste. The other, I saved to enjoy at home. Delicious.

So, of course, all I could think about were cupcakes. If you're in the DC area, you must visit Hello Cupcake. If you're not, I'm sorry. But just wait until you see the cupcakes in Etsyland.

Chocolate Cupcake with Emory Cherry in Pink Liner by dottietal
Dottie makes the cutest things. I wish I knew how to sew so I could buy this for myself.

Cupcakes in Love T-Shirt by MamaMonkey
MamaMonkey's cuteness spreads to
baby and maternity clothes as well.

Happy Birthday Etsy for Animals Cupcake Zippy Pouch
by Hazel Honey
You get a cupcake. A designated charity gets 50% of the proceeds. Yum.

Blue Wave Cupcake Stand by Lauren Begley

Available at lbegley.etsy.com

Coffee & Cupcakes Linen Tape (hand stamped with hand-carved stamps)
by Craft Pudding

You can still enjoy the real thing from one of Etsy's premier online bakeries. Bangerang Bake Shop / Fat Daddy Bake Shop is a fully licensed commercial kitchen with tons of rave reviews and repeat customers.

Bare Naked Lemon Lime Cupcake by Bangerang Bake Shop

Fat Daddy Float Cupcake by Bangerang Bake Shop

may you dream in cupcakes Blank Notecard by happydaystudio

The prodigal blogger returns...

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:21:00 +0000

Oh, my poor, dear, neglected blog!!

I'm been so busy with moving, the start of a new semester, and (the most fun) the flu... my poor blog has been withering away here in the corner.

I'm back, healthy, and (mostly) packed for the new move. I'm starting to feel a bit less crazed as my days become more manageable. So I'll be back to my regular Wednesday editions of Etsy Treasures, and Friday Indie Artist interviews.

But I'm not the only Muse who's making a return. Robin has finished grad school, and landed a full time teaching position! Woo hoo!! We are working on a (hopefully) weekly educational feature, but more on that later. For now, check out these new listings...

Hugs,
Monique

Glass Vases by Wendy Jackson

Available at threemusesart.etsy.com Butterfly & Lace Coasters
Available at threemusescrafts.etsy.com

Indie Artist Spotlight: Janyce Boynton of Sojourn Quilts

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 16:07:00 +0000

This week, our spotlight shines on Janyce Boynton, the fabric artist behind Sojourn Quilts. Janyce shared the ups and downs of her artistry, and what lobsters have to do with her journey.

Mountain, Lake, & Four Trees Silk Collage by Janyce Boynton
Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

I'm a fan of quilting in general - from the traditional ones my grandmother made to the more modern art quilts. Janyce's work is especially wonderful, familiar, and inviting. Her shop, www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com, features a wide range of quilted works and fabric collages including fabric art cards as low as $5, intricate wall hangings as fit for a fine gallery as for your home, and of course, lobsters. Wait - lobsters??

Tell us about your work. What is it that you create?
I make quilted art wall hangings, fabric collages, and NotYerAverage Lobsters. When I can, I use recycled materials. I love haunting the local thrift stores. There are great treasures to be found and, when I make my purchase, I’m helping people in my community.

How long have you been doing this? How did you get started?
Officially, I started business in November of 2000, though I’d started making quilted wall hangings before then. I never really intended to be a quilter. I was in a craft store with a friend. She held up a quilting magazine and said, "I bet you could do this!" About the same time, I received a box of fabric from my grandmother. I said, "Sure! Why not!" I got frustrated trying to make everything straight with traditional patterns. I remember sewing, taking apart, sewing, and taking apart a square—I can’t remember the name of the pattern—and getting so frustrated. I threw the square in the garbage and, really quickly, drew an abstract pattern of a mountain I like to climb in Acadia National Park. Practically nothing was straight in it. I dug furiously through my pile of fabrics, grabbing whatever looked interesting and started cutting. I had so much fun putting that wall hanging together! I realized I like the flaws and "happy accidents" that happen with this type of free form quilt making. I haven’t looked back since!
I opened my Etsy shop in February 2006. It’s been a great way to learn about on-line selling (and buying!), meet some awesome people with similar interests and show my fabric art to an international audience.

Sunshine & Flowers Quilted Wall Hanging by Janyce Boynton

Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

How did you learn to quilt?
I’m pretty much self-taught. I’ve read a lot of quilting and art books. I’ve worked with miles of thread and oodles of fabric. Lots of experimenting and trial and error.

You make and sell three different lines of quilted lobsters art dolls. So really.... why lobsters?
I love my lobsters. It didn’t start out that way, though. Lobsters are kind of a Maine cliché. All the locals roll their eyes at the idea of a stuffed toy lobsters found in tourist shops on the coast. I did one lobster originally—reluctantly--at the request of a customer. Then, I figured since I’d spent all that time figuring out a pattern, I’d do a few more. I started making the lobsters from flannel shirts (also very "Maine") in all kinds of crazy colors—not just "traditional" red and, over time, started seeing them as canvases--jumping off points for some fairly crazy ideas. Though some of the lobsters can take 6-8 hours, they’re also a nice break from longer quilted projects. Some of them (like my pirate lobstarrr or my mermaid-wannabe lobster) make me laugh when I’m making them. It gives me a chance to play and explore with techniques and to lighten up my day. Really…who can take a lobster all that seriously? And, in a strange way, I’m starting to feel like my lobsters honor how I feel about growing up in Maine. In integral ways, this place has influenced the way I think, learn, grow and interact with the world.
Above, right: Mr. Red and NotYerAverage Goth Lobster both by Janyce Boynton. Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

Are you able to work your art full time?
I recently made the decision to focus on my shop and artwork full time. I was sewing for someone and doing my Etsy shop on the side. While I loved working with handmade textiles to create beautiful clothing, I found didn’t have a lot of energy to put into my own work at the end of the day. Because of the ebb and flow of the clothing business, I also went weeks sometimes without updating my shop or producing anything new. After struggling with trying to find some balance, I decided to leave that job in April, 2008. I still may need to pick up a part-time job for practical reasons, but it won’t be sewing for anyone else. My intention is to focus as much time on my own artwork as I possibly can.

Describe your creative process.
A spark of an idea. An image. A color. A word or phrase that strikes me as odd or new or unusual. Any tidbit that sticks in my brain is worth pursuing to me. I don’t always have an exact idea of what I’m doing or how the finished product is going to look when I start out. Often, I do a life-sized sketch—an impression--to use as a guide. I’m totally comfortable with making changes, though, if the fabric or design dictates it. My best pieces seem to have a mind and flow of their own. I swear I could just throw all the pieces of fabric in the middle of the floor and the quilt would make itself. If I’m struggling, I know there’s something about the piece that isn’t true—I’m forcing the design or fabric or concept or process in some way. That’s when I need to step back and take a breather. Solutions to design problems usually come when I’m doing something else—walking or baking or playing music.

Pathways Miniature Fabric Collage by Janyce Boynton
Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

What inspires you and influences your work? So many things inspire me—nature, music, literature, great art. As for people, I’d say my grandmother, who always had crafts for us to do when we went to visit, and some friends who taught me how to do Ukrainian-style eggs (pysanky). I vividly remember how slow the process was—the sweet smell of the beeswax—the food we ate and the conversations we had throughout a long weekend of egg decorating. Once the wax goes down on the egg, there really isn’t any way to change it. Through this process, I became more comfortable living with my mistakes…incorporating them somehow into the design of the piece. It planted a seed somewhere in my consciousness that art was more than just slapping some paint on paper (I wasn’t quilting back then). It was a life-style: a way of being. The deeper I get into the artistic process, the more introspective and aware I become of my own processes and how those effect what I produce, the closer I feel to living what I am creating. A "sojourn" is a "resting place along life’s journey" I try (with varying degrees of success) to bring a piece of that sentiment into every piece I make.

Trees, Path & Flowers Quilted Wall Hanging by Janyce Boynton

Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

What do you do when you're not quilting?
I love taking walks in my neighborhood and in Acadia National and Baxter State Parks in Maine. Walking gives me a sensory understanding of the world that doesn’t come from whizzing by the trees and mountains and ocean in a car. I also play guitar (a bit) and sing. I’m into cooking, too, especially breads and cookies. I’m getting fresh vegetables from a local food guild this summer…and love trying to find new ways to prepare the vegetables. I even found a great recipe for turnip! Imagine that!

What craft or art form do you wish you could do?
Spinning wool, pottery and metal work. I think because they’re all tactile and alive somehow. I love what people can do with bits of hair, mud and metal. Done well—so inspiring.

What is your favorite handmade possession?
A hand-carved, primitive owl some friends gave me when I graduated from college. They were the coolest, oldest people I knew at the time—always looking for ways to keep their minds and bodies alive and well. They were probably the first people in my life who really saw me for who I was or could be. I think about how important that is every time I look at the owl.

Silly Purple and Orange Bird Miniature Collage by Janyce Boynton
Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

How do you promote your business?
Ah, marketing! It’s my weakest area. I tried doing shows for a while and hated them. So, I’m putting my focus on building a stronger on-line presence. I’ve got my Etsy shop and Flickr account. I’ve also joined two street teams: Visual Artists Street Team and Etsy Guild for Art Dolls and Such. I’ve just had some professional pictures done of my lobsters and am in the process of applying to several online advertising sites. I’ve spoken locally to groups about my experience as a woman starting out in business. I also have a blog called What Shoes I Wear where I interview other artisans about how they use creativity to understand and rise above life’s more challenging moments. It’s been a great way to meet people from around the world, learn some new and interesting things and stay inspired.

Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Learn the business end of things. It’s easy to become absorbed in creating and let the paperwork and other boring administrative stuff go by the wayside. I think most artists starting out (me included) undervalue their work. Learning pricing formulas and basic accounting skills helps de-mystify how money moves through a business. It’s the only way I know of to actually make sure I’m making a profit. After that, focus on what you love to do. Listen to your own natural rhythms. Hear what your eyes and hands and heart is telling you. Be sensitive enough to honor those feelings, courageous enough to put those feelings into action, and strong enough to move beyond the naysayers and self-doubts. After all that…laugh…have fun…take risks…don’t take life too seriously.

Who are some of your favorite Etsysellers or indie artists?
Oh, so many talented people to pick from! Jewelry maker Farafield, Fiber Artist Ontheround --who just started on Etsy , painter Rukshanahooda from India and many of the VAST artists, the art doll makers from EGADS (http://egadsteam.blogspot.com/), potter Dayle Tognoni Ward. Really, I could go on and on. I’ve got a favorites list available to view in my shop on Etsy.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
Oh, gosh. I haven’t decided yet. I’m soon to be 46 and am just finding my stride in life. I want to be young at heart, happy, always curious, always learning new things…and open to whatever shapes and forms that takes. It’s about the process for me…I’m not sure I care to actually reach the point where I’m grown up! I’m having way too much fun!

Orange Flower and Me by Janyce Boynton

See more at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com

Mediterranean Dreams

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:50:00 +0000

We've just listed these beautiful photographs by Wendy in our shop. Each are from her travels to her homeland of Greece.

Enjoy!
Monique

Street In Hania by Wendy Jackson

Available at threemusesart.etsy.com

Acropolis by Wendy Jackson
Available at threemusesart.etsy.com

Field of Gold by Wendy Jackson
Available at threemusesart.etsy.com

Oooh... Picasa

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:36:00 +0000

I love Picasa's easy to use photo management software, but this is new to me. I just discovered they have an animated gif generator. Unlike other programs, Picasion.com allows you to create animated gifs with more images and more options. I just created a few versions of this to use on our social networking sites, like Facebook and MySpace.

Three Muses animated gif created by Picasa

Flickr and Picasa users can import pictures directly from their online albums, and anyone can upload images from their own computer. Picasion.com will generate an animated gif you can save to disk, a URL you can link to, and HTML code you can post on your blog or webpage.

Hugs,
Monique

Indie Artist Spotlight: Shelby Crutchley, Encaustic Painter

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:43:00 +0000

This week, I had the chance to chat with Shelby Crutchley, a member of Etsy's Visual Artist Street team, about her work and online art business. Shelby and her business partner Beth own BS Art Studios, and the online store by the same name. Ironically, Shelby and Beth met working a a creative arts firm, where, Shelby explains, "we learned you can actually make a living by doing art".

A long-time artist, Shelby has recently taken the plunge to working full-time for herself as a professional artist. "About a year ago I resigned from my job as a sales person for a creative arts firm and had been working a part-time job. I just recently quit the part time job to focus on this full time." She admits, "It is so scary, but exciting and liberating."

Shelby is a talented artist, working in a medium that may be unfamiliar to some. I've always been an admirer of encaustic work, but like many, had questions about the process. Luckily, she readily explains some of what goes into encaustic painting.

Where did you study art? How did you learn?
Most of my learning has been self-taught. Thankfully I did have some amazing teachers in high school that helped me understand color theory pretty well. I do try to take classes at the local art league just to see what other people are doing and to find new techniques and such. Art is a lifelong learning process. I hope I never stop.

Summer Thunder by BSArtStudio.etsy.com

Can you tell us about your creative process?
What I love is color. Something may catch my eye, like a magazine ad, a comforter, a towel, a flower, the ocean. I try to remember those colors. Then, when I am in my studio, I start by mixing a bunch of colors. Once I have completed the mixing process (most time intensive part) I just play.

What exactly is Encaustic?
Encaustic is the process of using wax, resin, and pigment to paint. An artist will heat the wax and fuse it to an absorbent surface (like a wooden panel or canvas). The artist must heat the paint to apply it to the surface, which is the tricky part, because it begins to cool almost instantly.

Encaustic painting is actually an ancient art. It started with the Romans and Egyptians around 100 CE. They would use wax to caulk their ships, and this progressed to using decorative pigments in the wax to create elaborate designs on the ships. If done correctly, encaustic painting can last thousands of years. It is very sturdy.

Like many, I've always wanted to experiment with encaustic painting, but have been half afraid I'd set my home on fire, and half afraid I'd breathe in something hazardous. Is is dangerous? Toxic?
I can completely understand. Working with encaustics isn't too dissimilar from working with oils. Stay within some parameters and you'll be fine. Just don't eat the paint!

But seriously, I make sure to do my work in a very well ventilated space. If you keep the paints under their flash point (depending on the type of wax, anywhere from 150 degrees to 250 degrees) you will avoid noxious fumes that happen when the paint begins to smoke. A temperature controlled hotplate or heat gun is the best way to do this. I also try to use a hue of some of the toxic pigments rather than the actual pigment (cadmium red hue, instead of cadmium red). Other than that, just make sure you take the same kind of precautions as you would when working with solvents and paints when you oil paint, and you should be fine.

Note: If you ever do smell fumes, or get lightheaded, make sure all heated surfaces are turned off and leave the room immediately. That probably means you did something incorrectly and the air needs to clear. If you're unsure about starting with encaustics, I believe R&F has a good listing of workshops across the country to attend.

Above right: Fiery Passion by BS Art Studio

Who, or what, are your artistic influences?
Artistically speaking, I find a great amount of influence from the Abstract Expressionists. Color wise, I am in love with contemporary impressionists and the color choices they use.

What about your professional influences?
In life, the people around me both influence and inspire me. My parents have an amazing work ethic and have always pushed me. I am always striving to do as much as my husband seems to be able to do - I swear he is superman. Someday I hope I have the wealth of creativity that he does.

What do you do besides make awesome things?
I love movies. Especially summer blockbusters with lots of action. I love to read, and actually have to limit how much I read because I lose track of reality.

Looking In by BSArtStudio.etsy.com

What is your favorite handmade possession?

A silver color platter in the shape of an oyster shell. It is so elegant and beautiful. Truly a piece of art - but completely functional and practical.

What is your favorite creation from your shop?
Herding Fish. I took the colors from my honeymoon (we just got back on July 5th). We were snorkeling and taking pictures, and my husband kept having me "herd the fish" towards him by swimming through them. The colors in the fish and the movement they has was so spectacular. I cannot even begin to depict it, but it is fun to try.

Herding Fish by BSArtStudio.etsy.com

How do you promote your business?
I'm doing a lot of social networking online. I'm telling everyone I know and meet about my work, handing out business cards constantly. Blogging, sharing blogs, writing articles. I've also entered some local art fairs, and I'm looking at possibly entering the festival circuit. It's a tough life sometimes, but I think it would be worth it. I'm very lucky to be able to paint for a living, to do something I love.

Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Just keep your head up and keep going. I think a positive outlook is the most important part. People will pick up on it and be drawn to you. Negativity drives people and customers away. Do what you love, and the sales will come.

Who are some of your favorite Etsy sellers or indie artists?
That is hard. These are two sellers that were amazingly helpful when I first started on Etsy, and their work is very close to my mentality on life. Have fun and enjoy it
MDaisleyMoffitt.etsy.com
LiveFunky

What do you want to be when you grow up?
I don't quite know yet, but I think I'm doing it. Painting for a living. Maybe professional traveler too. Then life would be perfect.

Breaking Through by BSArtStudio.etsy.com

You can see more work by Shelby and Beth at BSArtStudio.etsy.com and on Shelby's blog at www.lableuefille.blogspot.com.

Etsy Treasures: Young Artists

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:53:00 +0000

As Etsy is quickly becoming known as the online marketplace for original art and handmade crafts, its community continues to grow by leaps and bounds. I've been thrilled to see some of my local friends join the ranks of indie entrepreneurs and open their own shops.

Even more exciting, I think, is the number of young people joining the Etsy community and selling their art or craft online. And by young, I mean young... you can find work by first-graders on Etsy, often in special sections of their parents shops.

Of course, Etsy has rules, guidelines and suggestions to protect both children and buyers. Shops listing the work of persons under the age of 18 are to be run or overseen by an adult, who agrees to Etsy's Terms of Service. Still, kids are creating their own artwork, writing their own listings, and selling online. It takes the idea of the lemonade stand to a whole new level. As an educator, it's heartening to see parents and youngsters embracing art together, and to see kids getting positive attention for their efforts and some sort of real-life "work" experience, as varied as that may be. As one parent puts it, these young artists are "learning the valuable lesson that Legos don't grow on trees".

That said, check out the work by these talented young people and be sure to visit their shops!

Audrey just turned 16 today-- Happy Birthday! Her shop is full of hand-drawn ACEOs and bookmarks with quirky characters like this one.

Wide Eyed Bride ACEO by Audrey of auddities.etsy.com

Avo, age 8, is one of my favorite young artists on Etsy. I've enjoyed chatting with him about materials and ideas for his fantasy-inspired sculptures. As the name suggests, DragonFairies.etsy.com is home to many strange and mythical creatures. Ar is clearly a family activity; Avo's shop includes work by his 5 year old brother, and both his parents has their own Etsy shops.

The Dragon and The Brave Night by Avo of DragonFairies.etsy.com

I happen to love robots... and pirates and ninjas. Luckily, so does Connor of roboboy.etsy.com. He just turned 7, and with the help of his mom (pacokeco.etsy.com), Connor is putting his original art on greeting cards, gift tags, and even handmade rubber stamps.

Mr. Crunch Robot/ Do a Little Dance Gift Tags

by Connor of roboboy.etsy.com

Joshua is another young artist following in the steps of an entrepreneurial parent. His mom's shop, terbearco.etsy.com, is known for wonderful handmade stamps, and now Joshua, a fifth-grader, is making his own featuring his original art. This one is great for Etsians, but both Joshua and his mom will create custom stamps for you.

Etsy Rocket Ship Mounted Rubber Stamp
by Joshua of notjustartsandcrafts.etsy.com

TresLocas.etsy.com is a shop for two amazingly talented artists, Onyx (age 9) and Néa (age 6), and their mom. Most of the art is their shop are original paintings and mixed media work, rather than prints. There is so much to see at this shop. I'm showing you my personal favorite, but check out all of their work.

Frida is Not Well by Onyx of TresLocas.etsy.com

Flower Girl by Nea of TresLocas.etsy.com

You can sometimes find handmade dolls by Hannah, in a section in her mother's shop at penpusher.etsy.com. Hannah is ten, and has been crafting for several years already.

Shy Nadine: Handmade Fairy Doll
by Hannah at penpusher.etsy.com

Madelaine started selling her photography and digital art on Etsy when she was only 16. People are often surprised to discover her age (now 17), when they encounter her hauntingly beautiful work and pure professionalism. Madelaine is a great example of what can happen when you allow young artists the opportunity to practice their craft, explore their artistic interests, and even start their own businesses.

The Offering by Madelaine of madelaine.etsy.com

Ad Madelaine returns to college full-time this fall, I can only imagine she'll be swamped with her course load but learning much from school and life to enrich her art. Luckily, she's already passing the torch to her younger brother, Silas. Only 7 years old, Silas has opened shop at gummytoes.etsy.com with the help of Madelaine and their mother. I'm looking forward to seeing more by Silas and other young artists!

Friendship Forever Card (Blank Inside) by Silas of gummytoes.etsy.com

Indie Artist Spotlight: Jennifer Price Davis

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:23:00 +0000

I think I fell in love when I discovered this ACEO by Jennifer Price Davis, at right. Recently, I had an opportunity to chat with the artist about her life and work.

Jennifer has been making art as long as she can remember. "I got started by making pretend art shows with my sister where we’d paint like a hundred thumbprints on a piece of paper, then write “5 cents” in the corner! We were gearing up for a HUGE art sale. I imagined myself in a gallery even then." Luckily for us, Jennifer opened her first Etsy shop, www.gingerlime.etsy.com, in November of 2007. After nearly a year, she is moving into a new shop with a more recognizable name - www.jenniferpricedavis.etsy.com.

Jennifer is a mixed media artist whose work is bright with raw energy. In addition to her paintings and ACEOs (Artist Cards, Editions & Originals-- mini works of ark), she also makes handpainted magnets, pushpins and pendants.

Where did you study art? How did you learn?
Basic drawing classes in high school and college. I also took a painting and ceramics course to get into an Art Therapy program. Other than that I just play.

Are you a full time artist?
I don’t do it full time yet! I am also a Career Counselor (ironic, huh) I don’t know if they impact each other really. I know that doing one makes me more aware of how much I want to do the other, though I really appreciate my current job and the great experiences I have.

Can you tell us about your creative process?
My process is pretty simple: Wake up at 5:00am(ish) and run to the attic; pick up what I am working on or want to work on; get paint, paper, and any other media down until it feels like what I felt inside is on the “canvas”. Throughout the process I tell myself to breathe, play, and take my time because I get sad when I have to stop, but that’s no reason to rush. Promise myself that if it doesn’t turn out, I can throw away or recycle if possible…I also promise myself that I’ll clean up my studio – next time.

Ever by Jennifer Price Davis.
Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com

Who, or what, are your influences and inspiration?
Hmmmm, my husband and son motivate me and inspire me. My mom, dad, and sister are all influences in my life too. Other than that, I am inspired when I see any art and feel the soul of the piece. Yoga, color, love, humor, faith questions, suffering…all of that stuff inspires me. Lastly, people are my inspiration. The life around me is amazing and I wish people knew how awesome we are.

Understanding People by Jennifer Price Davis.

Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com

What do you do besides make awesome things?
I find new and exciting ways to use ellipses (…) and smileys! I eat awesome food because my husband is the best cook ever! I work, run on occasion, and play with my little guy – we dance and watch a lot of cartoons and superhero stuff…I love that stuff!

What is your favorite handmade possession?

A blanket that my mom got from a woman who knitted it for me when I was a baby. She passed it on to my son when he was a newborn. Of his blankets, that became his “must have” blanket (still is now and he’s 5). He named it “Monkey”.

What is your favorite creation from your shop?
It would have to be Tuesday I and Tuesday II. I LOVED using spackle/spackling… I’ll be doing more of that.

Tuesday I , Tuesday II by Jennifer Price Davis

Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com

How do you promote your business?
I talk about it quite a bit. It’s an extension of me. I have done a few home shows, mostly featuring my jewelry, but more recently, my heart ~ mixed media painting. I enter local shows and auctions to get my name out there and my house is full of my art (thanks to my husband and his cousin). I actually sold 3 pieces to family visiting from out of town because it was hanging!

12.Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
I’m still working at it myself, but you have to believe in yourself. You can’t let anyone define you or discourage you. You also have to get good at what you love and play! Don’t say I can’t make that…you might not be able to sell it, but you can make whatever’s in your heart.

Who are some of your favorite Etsy sellers or indie artists?
Now that’s tough…Etsy rocks too hard and I don’t know a lot outside, but right now, my favorite shops and/or pieces are:
http://maryannwakeley.etsy.com
http://abreakastudios.etsy.com
Dog's Astral Trip with Angels in Hats by bogARTstudiogallery
Scandal by Rebecca Meyerson of Three Muses

What do you want to be when you grow up?
I don’t know about what, but I know who I want to be when I grow up…That answer is me!

I Tell My Secrets to Butterflies by Jennifer Price Davis

Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com

Etsy Treasures: Happy Birthday!

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:42:00 +0000

It's my birthday today! Tonight, I'll be celebrating amongst friends and family with mojitos and salsa music. But first, in a bit of an early celebration, I've decided to share some of my absolute favorite handmade items from Etsy.com. I've been blessed with so much in my life, that there is little I have need for. But if I won the lottery tomorrow, I'd run and add all of these to my shopping cart!

Of course, you can imagine how difficult it is to choose only a few favorite things from a treasure trove so full of wonderful creations. While I add new things to my list of favorites all of the time, I've been eying each of these items (or shops!) for a long time.

This felt birthday pin by Lupin made me laugh out loud the first time I saw it. I could wear this every birthday from now on! Tonight, though, I'd rather be wearing one of these gorgeous silk flowers in my hair. I love pretty much everything in Piper Ewan's girly-girl shop, from the flower brooches to her garters and corsets.

Flower Brooch in Flame by PiperEwan.etsy.com

And because I love the idea of wearing flowers in my hair almost as much as love woodcut prints...

Hibiscus by Viza Arlington of VIZArt.etsy.com

If ever there were a piece of art I really felt I needed in my life, it would be one of Tracy Suter's house paintings. Her resin jewelry is wonderful (I have my own artgirlx necklace thanks to a generous gift from our fellow Three Muses artist Robin), but her mixed-media houses evoke within me a strong emotional response, calling up the fears and dreams we keep only to ourselves.

House of Loss by Tracy Suter of artgirlx.etsy.com

Also among my favorite Etsy artists is Jen Maestre. I've always wanted to touch her pencil urchin sculptures and am so glad to see smaller (more affordable!) works in her shop these days.

Hibernation 2 ACEO (made of real pencils) by Jen Maestre

Silver and Blue Pencil Urchin by Jen Maestre

Spin Designs also makes beautiful laser cut jewelry, but it is their mobiles that I adore.

Mod Twist Mobile by spindesigns.etsy.com

Everyone who knows me also knows I have a ridiculous collection of jewelry and accessories. I'd love to add these to the collection.

An all-time favorite, named after one of my favorite novels.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings Necklace by socharmed.etsy.com

Blackforest Cake Satin Wristlet by meringueshop.etsy.com

I think I would wear my glasses more if I could carry them in one of Oktak's casually elegant cases.

Eyeglass Cases by oktak.etsy.com

More casual elegance from two of my favorite clothing designers on Etsy. It's hard to choose just one thing from each of their shops because I love everything they make.

The Other Side Dress by wildewear.etsy.com

The Lilly Dress by gaiaconceptions.etsy.com

Thanks for checking out my favorites, and have a wonderful day... I know I will!

Hugs,
Monique

Indie Artist Spotlight: Tamra Gentry of AgJewelry

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:53:00 +0000

Today marks the first in a weekly series of feature interviews with talented independent artists and craftspeople. I'm please to start the series by introducing you to Tamra Gentry, a talented metalsmith and jewelry artist.

In 2007, Tamra launched Ag Jewelry Design with her own website, then opened an Etsy shop for the beautiful, handcrafted jewelry. At the same time, she also opened an Etsy shop called Hair Thingys, for gentle hair jewelry.

Tamra's jewelry pieces are truly wearable works of art, and each is one of a kind. One of the reasons I admire Tamra is because she is dedicated to fair and ethical practices in the manufacturing of her jewelry. Each element she either handcrafts herself, or uses responsibly sourced materials, such as Karen Hilltribe pieces, handmade by Thai artisans.

How did you get started?
I began making HairThingys because I have locked hair, and I couldn’t find anything I liked that was stylish, different, *and* made of high-quality materials at the same time—so, I came up with my own solution. My metalsmithing evolved from beading. I began as a beader, got bored with beading and moved from that to working with PMC (Precious Metals Clay). I got bored with PMC and began using traditional methods of working with metal. I fell in love with metalsmithing and haven’t wanted to do anything else.

Where did you learn your craft?
I took a few workshops that taught me the very basics of metalsmithing (equipment, soldering, etc.).The rest I’ve learned on my own—everything from granulation to stone setting, etc.

With the exception of an excellent workshop I took through Revere Academy, I haven’t been satisfied with taking classes. I got tired of spending a lot of money on classes where I wasn’t learning what I wanted about the technical aspects of fabrication (that’s my background in science speaking). So, I continue to learn on my own.

Banded Black Onyx (Sardonyx) Artisan Pendant and Necklace

Is Ag Jewelry Design your full-time job? What else do you do for a living? How do the two impact each other?
I started developing my business full time when I quit my job in academia in April 2006; but, with the economy being in such disarray right now and with business moving along so slowly, I recently took on a part-time job in arts administration *for now* so that I can support my business.

It’s something that’s low-key enough and doesn’t involve any excess investment in time or state of mind—I chose carefully because I really didn’t want anything that was stressful and that would eat into my creativity. On the other hand, it’s a position in a field where I have room to grow into a bigger position if it ever came down to that. I like it, I like the organization I work for, and I am happy that it doesn’t interfere with my business. I actually enjoy observing and participating in the growth of another small business—one that just happens to be arts-based.

Oh, and many of the patrons who support the organization have deep pockets, so you’d better believe that when I attend our events, I’ll be wearing my jewelry.

Who are your influences?
I am a huge fan of the work of African-American Modernist jeweler, Art Smith. –I love the Modernist period of jewelry in general. I am influenced by Charles Lewton-Brain, who discovered the fold-forming technique of metal forming. I am also influenced by ancient Greek/Etruscan jewelry—I love chain-weaving and granulation.

Birdseye Rhyolite and Moonstone Pendant on Handmade Sterling Silver Chain with Toggle Clasp

What do you do besides make breathtaking jewelry?
I spend time with my husband of 14 years, I’m working to compete as an amateur bodybuilder or figure competitor, I love gourmet cooking, I love to travel, and I’m an amateur astronomer and a hobbyist photographer.

What is your favorite handmade possession?
From my own hands, it’s a forged copper bracelet I made recently using a metal forming technique called fold-forming. Made by someone else, I would have to say it’s a wooden sign hanging in my studio that says “Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude.”

How do you promote your business?
I haven’t done nearly as much promotion as I should be doing. I have my website, my behind-the-scenes blog, and I’m about to start another blog that’s geared more specifically toward the customer and towards promotion of my work. I’ve joined a few social networking groups, and I move in and out of those as I evaluate the extent of their benefits. I also did a really nice newsletter for a while—I just got tired of writing for it. I may pick that up again and stick with it.
Next year I plan to do at least three shows/fairs, I’m going to re-join a few professional groups, and I’m going to hit the pavement a bit harder.

Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Aaaah, persistence, persistence, persistence.

Who are some of your favorite Etsy sellers or indie artists?
I love Fat Daddy Bake Shop—they make some wickedly delicious cupcakes that come packaged in small Mason jars. I also love the woodwork of s2ARTz and jimjenkins510. Oh, and another favorite is definitely natalyasots ceramic teapots.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
A Master Jeweler/Master Metals Craftsman.

Tamra is well on her way. You can see more of Tamra and her work online at the following sites:
www.Ag Jewelry Design.com
www.AgJewelryDesign.etsy.com
www.HairThingys.etsy.com
Tamra's behind the scenes blog

Etched Jade Barrel Hair Thingy by Tamra Gentry

Available at HairThingys.etsy.com

Wave Hill Jellybean Pendant on Handmade Chain by Tamra Gentry

Available at AgJewelryDesign.etsy.com

All jewelry shown is currently available in one of Tamra's shops. Be sure to visit them all!

New Screenprint Listed

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:44:00 +0000

Two Annas, another poetry-inspired screen print, has just been added to our shop. See more at www.threemusesart.etsy.com.

Two Annas by Monique Phillips of Three Muses

This makes me want to scream.

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:05:00 +0000

Thanks, abitabite, for including Glen's Megan: Scream in this awesome treasury!

See more wonderful collections by visiting Etsy's Treasury.

Etsy Treasures: Books

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:04:00 +0000

I have always loved books. When I was young, the trip to the neighborhood library was a highlight of my week. I'd curl up on the mahogany window seat and read for hours, finally leaving with as many books as I could carry. Now, I relish rainy days as the perfect excuse to stay inside and read my newest novel. As much as I enjoy reading, I also love the feel of bound pages in my hands. This week Etsy Treasures is dedicated to the art of both the written word and to handmade books.

Haunted Artists Support Group is a MySpace group of indie artists. GANK is the first issue of the zine showcasing their work. Beautifully made in a very limited edition of only 30 copies. You can see more work by Anthony Myers and other Haunted Artists at http://www.myspace.com/hauntedartist.

GANK Handmade Zine available at anthonymyers.etsy.com

Speaking of haunting and beautiful, I have long admired the mixed media and digital art of Jennifer Gordon of StilettoHeights. For anyone else who just can't get enough, she is now offering collections of her work in gorgeous coffee table books. The Mixed Emotions books showcase her artwork, and are printed in limited editions, while Words & Pictures includes both Jennifer's art and poetry.

Words & Pictures by Jennifer Gordon of StilettoHeights

I imagine these little art books, with their hand-sewn, tea-stained pages, would be a joy to touch. Luckily they are available as a set of three zines for a pretty awesome price.

Set of Three Handmade Zines by hownowdesign.etsy.com

Ok, so I know this isn't a real book, so much in the traditional sense, but it looks like a book, and it's perfect for those who want to pack a bit of Earl Grey with their lunch-break reads. These adorable tea books are available in tons of fabrics.

Tea Book by EliteElishi.etsy.com

Also in the not-actually-a-book-but-still-pretty-wonderful category are Mark Beagle's wooden bookmarks. A cabinet maker by trade, Mark's shop turtlebones is full of assemblage art reminiscent of Joseph Cornell. He uses leftover wood to make these Japanese-inspired bookmarks.

Rosewood Bookmark by Mark Beagle of turtlebones.etsy.com

Prefer filling the pages of a book yourself? These are a few of my favorite handmade journals.

Double-Bound Sketchbook/ Journal by ladiestheytalkabout.etsy.com

Ponder Handcrafted Journal by Cheryl Edwards of artsylifedotnet.etsy.com

Hepburn's Notebook by RedOtter.etsy.com

Happy reading!
Monique

5 Ways to Boost Creativity

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 18:21:00 +0000

Happy Monday!

I've set my calendar to officially include more time for painting and printing. It seems sad that I need to do that, but I think it will help me to dedicate more hours to creating work than to the necessary evil that is administrative schtuff.

Are you feeling the need to recharge your creative juices? Here are a few ideas that may help.

1. Make time. Life is hectic. We are busy people. Like every other important thing in our lives, our creativity needs to be given time and attention. I've scheduled in blocks of time throughout the week just for making art.

2.Work it out. Studies have shown that moderate aerobic exercise has a positive effect of creativity, lasting for up to several hours after an exercise session.

3. Go back to your roots. Think about what you enjoyed creating as a child. Break out the crayons or finger paint and let yourself enjoy the process.

4. Allow yourself to try and fail. Doing things we know will work is safe, boring, and teaches us little. We learn the most from our experiences. Try something new, and enjoy an imperfect experience.

5. Invest in your creativity. Buy something that is inexpensive but can be used to create. A notebook, a pen, a pack of Sharpies. I do this often... maybe a bit too often. :-) You can find plenty at the Three Muses supply shop, Crafty Tools.

Hugs,
Monique

Etsy Treasures: Vino

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:20:00 +0000

I'm a day late with Etsy Treasures because it's been a maddeningly hectic week. I did take a few minutes between meetings yesterday to wander into Best Cellars in Dupont Circle. I'd passed this little wine shop a million times before, but never entered because I assumed it was an expensive boutique.

Imagine my surprise when I discovered rows upon rows of unsung yet delicious wines, most under $15 a bottle. Of course, stumbling upon a wine tasting was also a pleasant surprise . After tasting the Alsace Willm Gewürztraminer, I couldn't wait to take it home and try it with Muenster, a German-inspired tradition. I also snagged a bottle of Penfolds Port (an after-dinner favorite of mine), and a sparkling red, La Sera Red Malvasia.

The good folks at Best Cellars offer tastings every day, so if you're in the Washington, DC area, be sure to visit their store. In the mean time, here are some wine-inspired treasures from Etsy artisans.

Hugs,

Monique

Where I'd like to be enjoying my wine right now...
Blue Chair by Wendy Jackson of Three Muses

Spring Floral Coasters by Three Muses

Lavender Wine Cork Board by catiahades
... a perfect gift for your favorite wine lover

Deep Blue Wine Markers by JenNixon

Vin de Poche Wine Wrap by pearmcgee

New Treasuries

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:56:00 +0000

We're featured in two Etsy Treasuries at the moment... check out these beautiful collections, and be sure to visit all of the shops featured. Enjoy!

Hugs,

Monique

Treasury by Becoming Jewelry

Treasury by Jeannette of MCNovelties and MaisyH

Soho Exhibit

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:59:00 +0000

I'll be running around a bit mad today, preparing to install an exhibit at Soho tomorrow-- at 6:30 AM! No, not SoHo in New York, Soho Tea & Coffee in Dupont Circle, Washington, DC. Luckily, they have a full espresso bar and delicious menu. I'm sure I'll be needing a double latte just to start hanging work.

I've been a fan of Soho since I moved to DC in 1995. Back in the day, I'd stay there for hours drinking mango loose-leaf tea and eating bagel melts while doing my homework. 13 years
later, Sami, the manager, still brings each customer's order to their table with a smile. Soho is known for a great coffee and tea selection, a very affordable menu, and free wi-fi, and for being open from 7:00 AM until the wee hours of the night-- sometimes 4 or 5 in the morning. Soho is one of my favorite places in DC, and I'm excited to have my work hanging on their walls.

My work will be at Soho for the entire month of July. Soho is located at 22nd & P Street, NW, about 2 blocks from Dupont Circle. I invite you to check out some of my new work in person, while enjoying a cup... or two.

Hugs,
Monique

Winter Berries by Monique Phillips

To Anna, With Love

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:28:00 +0000

It seems like so long ago that I started thinking about a series of screen prints inspired by my favorite poets. I'm so excited that the first batch is finished, scanned, and ready to go. Along the way, I discovered that I can't get enough of Anna Akhmatova or the process of screen printing.

Anna Akhmatova, of course, is the poet upon whom these first monoprints are based. Anna lived through the Bolshevik Revolution, the assassination of her husband (poet Nikolay Gumilyov), and oppressive censorship of her own work. They say the Soviets would have assassinated her-- if she hadn't been so popular.

Barbs & Rowenberry by Monique Phillips
Watercolor and acrylic monoprint, 6 layers

I discovered Akhmatova when I was about 14 or 15, and stumbled upon this poem:

You Thought I Was That Type
by Anna Akhmatova

You thought I was that type:
That you could forget me,
And that I'd plead and weep
And throw myself under the hooves of a bay mare,

Or that I'd ask the sorcerers
For some magic potion made from roots and send you a terrible gift:
My precious perfumed handkerchief.

Damn you! I will not grant your cursed soul
Vicarious tears or a single glance.

And I swear to you by the garden of the angels,
I swear by the miracle-working icon,
And by the fire and smoke of our nights:
I will never come back to you.

Whew. Can you see why this stuck with me for so long? Thus, Anna is the first muse for my poetry prints. I'm making these prints available to friends and blog readers before listing them in our online store, so be sure to check out the complete collection below. I'd love to hear what you think, or your poetry-reading recommendations.

Hugs,
Monique

We are treasured...

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:27:00 +0000

Thanks to miabaggali for curating such a beautiful collection with such a wonderful message, and for including my Bird of Peace ACEO.

I'm also honored to have my Nature's First Green Coil Pot among such great work in the Earthly Delights Treasury by strandsoflight.

See more Treasuries on Etsy.

Etsy Treasures: Nurses are angels in comfortable shoes...

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:19:00 +0000

I took the title of this weeks Etsy Treasures from a old saying. Last Thursday night, I had to rush my mother to the emergency room. We were lucky to receive a quick but terrifying diagnosis-- a pulminary embolism. A massive clot had gotten in her lung, and she was starting to go into heart failure. I thank God that the Dr. Amy and Dr. Eddie Fernandez were able to see the problem, and to treat it immediately.

It's Wednesday now, and Mom has been in ICU for nearly a week. Every day, when I see her nurses, I want to hug them and thank them for saving my mother's life. I can not say enough about the compassionate and attentive care she has received by the nurses in the Surgical ICU at Holy Cross Hospital. I hope I'm not leaving anyone out, but want to make sure to thank ICU nurses Annabelle, Kandice, Shannon, Mary, Sun Ji, Ana, and Vonnie. With these wonderful nurses in mind, here are some treasures for the angels in your life.

Hugs,
Monique

This is a Print of a Nurse Healing the World One Bandage at a Time
by Kathy R. Jeffords of thedreamygiraffe

State Board Question & Answers for Nurses Book Purse

by prettytheory

Handpainted Earthenware Nurse Mugs (sold individually)
by Harriet Damave of house of harriet

Nurse's Mate Tool Belt by MiltonMaid

Medic Microfiber Skinny Necktie by Bethany Shorb of toybreaker

Florence Nightingale (8x10 Photo) by Broadarrows

African Mask Scrub Top
Many more styles available at ceceshop

Screen Prints and Love

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:15:00 +0000

I am finally getting around to listing some of my screen prints. The first one is Aya, inspired by the Adinkra symbol for a fern. Aya is used to symbolize the best properties of the hardy plant-- strength, resiliency and independence. These are virtues I like to think I have, or at least, work towards having.

Aya by Monique Phillips
threemusesart.etsy.com

Adinkra is a pictoral language used by the Akan and Gyaman people of West Africa. Initially used only to funeral cloths, Adinkra symbols continue to decorate fabrics for a variety of special occasions. Each symbol has a specific meaning, often relating to virtues, spirituality, or native fables.

Adinkra has deeply personal meaning for me. A few years ago, I had the symbol for "odo nnywe fie kwan" tattooed just above my wrist. My youngest sister had the same tattooed on her calf. The symbol means "love never loses it's way home", a testament to the power of love. Just over a year ago, my sister passed away. Today, it's a reminder that we are only separated by her death, and that eventually, we will find our way back to each other.

Etsy Treasures: Beat the Heat

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:41:00 +0000

It's only June, and here, in Washington, DC, we've already had official "heat emergencies". Hiding inside my air-conditioned home, I spent some time trying to come up with ways to stay cool.

Wear less.

Maybe not less, but at least lighter. Think light and airy cotton dresses, breathable and comfortable tanks. Etsy has tons to choose from, but one of my favorite shops is Gaia Conceptions. Andrea only uses natural (often organic) fabrics in her designs, making then perfect for summer. I kind of want everything in her store. If anyone is wondering what to get me for my birthday in July.... well, you know.

Shell Collector Dress by Gaia Conceptions

Tiva Tunic by Gaia Conceptions

Break out the fan.
I'm not talking about the big box fan in your attic. With a beautiful handpainted silk fan, you'll not only stay cool, you'll ooze cool.

Handpainted Silk Fan by gilbea

Drink up.
Instead of cocktails, try something more refreshing and hydrating-- like TeaNoir's Cosmo blend loose tea. It's delicious hot or iced.

"Cosmo" Loose Leaf Tea Blend by TeaNoir

Hit the beach.
Or the local pool. Or the sprinkler system. However you can play in the water and cool off, do it. I'd like to play in the sprinklers wearing one of Miss Brache's vintage style two-piece maillots. She custom makes each swimsuit so you can specify size and fabric.

Robbie Maillot by MissBrache

I suppose someone would tell me I'm too old for this, but I think this Mermaid Tale/ Beach Towel was made for me! It's giant enough to lay out on, and has straps to tie it around the waist for complete mermaid transformation.

Mermaid Tale/ Beach Towel by tinygreenapples

This bag screams summer. And it's so roomy, I might be able to stuff my giant mermaid tail inside. I could definitely fit a bikini, bottled water, and a good book in here.

Bee Bag by UrbanKnit

Stay cool,
Monique

Collaboration

three.muses@hotmail.com (threemuses) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 18:47:00 +0000

Glen and Rebecca got together recently for an impromptu collaboration. Both are painters, but with very different styles. The result was a lot of fun and some fantastic work.

Backpack by Glen Brown & Rebecca Meyerson.

Foo
Portrait of Glen Brown by Rebecca Meyerson

Plant
Portrait of Rebecca Meyerson by Glen Brown

Not only did they create some awesome work together, but the work inspired Glen to pick up a paint brush instead of an airbrush to create these:

See more work by Glen and Rebecca at threemusesart.etsy.com!