Zentangle Moleskin 2

Obviously there is something about zentangles that calls to me. I made the pledge (to myself) to do another accordian moleskin. The format will be a mandala followed by a "free motion" design. Yes, it's calming to do, but it also calms the mind and that is good for me. There is an element that helps me to work out of my comfort zone and to learn contrast, color and other arty concepts.

The center circle and the two circles to shape the outer band were done with templates and a compass. All the rest is created freehand. OK, a ruler for the bands on the side.

Each page is an enjoyable lesson. There are so many techniques and designs that can be learned and incorporated. Oh boy, what is next!

Sketchcrawl and fabric

Yesterday I joined others at the Sketchcrawl held in Davis, California. This group was organized by Pete Scully. If you check is website you'll see his terrific work. Yes, he counted the rows of bricks in the building. Pete is the one in the black hat.

My very humble drawing was of the building next to the brick structure which housed the coffee shop.

It was funny, I seemed to find myself alone which is not really the intent of a gathering. But it did help me to gain confidence to sit and draw in public. There were many languages spoken and I could tell when the same set of footfalls changed direction. Davis, which is a small town, is the home of the University of California, Davis campus and it seemed that families were checking out the surroundings. Also, there was a soccer tournament with over 100 teams and players and their parents were strolling through the town.

While walking through the town I visited an artists co-op called The Artery. Currently one of the featured artists is Lillian Grant. Her zentangle type work on huge scrolls of a heavy paper inspired me to pull out my new set of fabric markers and try some designs on a white on white fabric. I have no idea where this project will lead me, but I just had to try it out.

So may toys, so little time!!

Journal and Postcards

It's over:( The watercolor journal class was held on just two Saturdays and now I must continue on my own. That is always a challenge. Here are two pages that I did which helped me to just sit me down and enjoy the moment.

I have no idea why I'm making fabric postcards, but here are a couple more. Actually, I'm thinking that it would be fun to make them as Christmas greetings. However, would it be fun if I had 75 to do?!

OK, call me crazy. It's near 100 degrees today and we are going golfing. Let's see, I just got a golf umbrella for my birthday, so that should be no problem. Ha!

Watercolor Journal Workshop

Feeling that I needed a boost in the idea of doing an art journal, I signed up for a class with Susan Keale. There are two sessions, each four hours. A lot of the information was for absolute beginners, but I knew that I could learn something and, I did! We did a color wheel that had the inner circles include mixes with yellow ochre, raw sienna and burnt umber. Simple enough, but helpful. Among the books she recommended were Danny Gregory's. I knew that I was in the right class. Our homework was to draw at least 10 minutes each day. Of course, it took much longer for this first painting, but that is just what I wanted, motivation.

I attended my art quilt meeting and one member cleaned our her library and generously let us have our pick of books. As a small thank you for such a kind gesture, I made this fabric postcard. Thanks again, S!!

To the Americans reading this, have a Glorious Fourth of July! The the rest of world, may you also have a nice day!