Just Play!

"I was just playin'." That student phrase held a lot of power over my self-control when I was teaching middle school, since it was often a denial of any responsibility! 

But last week, I decided to experiment with image transfers, heat embossing, stamping, inks et al. No Zentangle. No drawing. So why am I sharing this in a blog about my Zentangle journey? Because it's all connected. First, my journal pages to illustrate what I did:

After playing "mad artist" for a while, and taking notes on my results, I really wanted to tangle something.

In his neverending generosity, Lar at one point asked what I had been up to in my studio, since I hadn't rushed him at the door with my usual, "Come see what I did today!" Knowing that I wasn't especially excited with my work, I quipped, "I was just playin'!" I went on to explain that I'd been exploring and experimenting this week and showed him the sketchbook. And in the end, I used the heat embossing to make cards for our Meals on Wheels clients this week.

"Fly with happy wings today."

When's the last time you gave yourself permission to "just play"?

You're invited! Saturday, 7/15 from 8 to 12

My first art sale is tomorrow, Saturday, 7/15 from 8-12 in Homestead Village, Chapel Hill (27516). It's part of our neighborhood yard sale. The entrance is on Hearthstone Lane and Homestead Road. 

I'll have some matted pieces:

As well as some framed original art cards:

And some printed cards:

Here are a few more pieces. There's even a jigsaw puzzle!

Hope to see you there!

Saying yes

Self-doubt and fear have occasionally led me away from new experiences and challenges. I'm not good enough. I'm not ... enough. Overcoming fear has appeared on many a new year's resolutions list in my adult life. Remarkably, for me, last week focused a lot on saying yes. You can see this in last week's art. I replied "Yes" to an email to say that I would participate in our neighborhood's yard sale on July 15th. Surprised to feel energized by my choice, I started preparing things to sell. I have never sold any of my art. I've given away what I haven't kept, to our Meals on Wheels clients, the Little Free Art Gallery in Carrboro, the West Carrboro Minim Art, friends, family, random recipients....I still have pieces that I no longer have room for, but they don't feel destined for the above. Several friends have suggested that I sell my wares, so I'm saying yes!

Here's what's ready as of today:

Matted originals

These are all framed greeting cards with original art.

And in my journal this week:

I'm pleased with what what I have so far and will keep you posted about new additions!

What can you say yes to in your life?