tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76141360211135489092024-02-08T11:09:31.340-08:00Jane Maday's Art BlogThis is my new blog all about my adventures and pitfalls in the world of Art Licensing.jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.comBlogger133125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-43556530225345943182014-06-16T10:06:00.003-07:002014-06-16T10:12:08.633-07:00Southern Colorado<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBuY_mPsqaQ/U58clqNU0rI/AAAAAAAAA3w/ZSeMSo6oAO8/s1600/P6150258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBuY_mPsqaQ/U58clqNU0rI/AAAAAAAAA3w/ZSeMSo6oAO8/s1600/P6150258.jpg" height="125" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This past weekend we decided to take a driving trip to explore some areas of Southern Colorado that we hadn't yet seen. The photo above is of the Sangre de Christo mountain range. This region is so incredibly beautiful. I had to thank John for bringing me to live in this beautiful state.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UtF6cC8p2Lw/U58dOyBqmlI/AAAAAAAAA34/mICD_WoelSw/s1600/P6130137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UtF6cC8p2Lw/U58dOyBqmlI/AAAAAAAAA34/mICD_WoelSw/s1600/P6130137.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We started in Manitou Springs, one of my favorite little towns. I had been here before, and it was nice to show it to John. Manitou is full of little galleries and pretty little shops. This is the hotel where we stayed, The Cliff House. It was built as a stage coach stop in the 1870's. It was a real treat. Our room was in the tower at the left, so it was round. There were roses, a bottle of wine, and chocolate covered strawberries waiting for us in our room!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUqCxRadh1w/U58fW9dd66I/AAAAAAAAA4c/v-ltoozke3A/s1600/P6130141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUqCxRadh1w/U58fW9dd66I/AAAAAAAAA4c/v-ltoozke3A/s1600/P6130141.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was nice to see some of my products in the shops!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwnSwJOiXns/U58d8hckmFI/AAAAAAAAA4E/di4HhmJAhz8/s1600/P6140143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwnSwJOiXns/U58d8hckmFI/AAAAAAAAA4E/di4HhmJAhz8/s1600/P6140143.jpg" height="400" width="295" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br />
Manitou is very close to The Garden of the Gods. This park is famous for it's standing red rocks. This one is called Balanced Rock. It is a little hard to tell, but this huge rock is balance on a quite small point. John is making sure it doesn't fall off.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-KHDAPZSZU/U58epWys_vI/AAAAAAAAA4M/tzWLnMEGivc/s1600/P6140144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-KHDAPZSZU/U58epWys_vI/AAAAAAAAA4M/tzWLnMEGivc/s1600/P6140144.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am holding up a different one.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ASb5eGGGvds/U58fEyY6QOI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/bybJrLMnRzY/s1600/P6140145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ASb5eGGGvds/U58fEyY6QOI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/bybJrLMnRzY/s1600/P6140145.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are ancient, gnarled trees growing put of the red soil.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrqdyLfzsYE/U58fzVVml3I/AAAAAAAAA4g/0DGdeBL8yoQ/s1600/P6140158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrqdyLfzsYE/U58fzVVml3I/AAAAAAAAA4g/0DGdeBL8yoQ/s1600/P6140158.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The towns are brightly decorated. There are many murals on the walls, and sculptures in the gardens. And there are lots of little humorous touches like this one!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Upn670o5txs/U58gNTJuGNI/AAAAAAAAA4o/yNuz__0aSnE/s1600/P6140163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Upn670o5txs/U58gNTJuGNI/AAAAAAAAA4o/yNuz__0aSnE/s1600/P6140163.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The next day we drove to Royal Gorge, site of the world's highest suspension bridge. You can see it in the distance. There was a dreadful fire last year, so it is temporarily closed to car traffic, but the park operates a shuttle that goes across. It stops halfway across for you to take photos, but I was too afraid to get out of the bus. The wind was blowing so hard, and we were so high up!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ngV38U-umo8/U58g5xTIDQI/AAAAAAAAA4w/k9Wrv1ae4ZY/s1600/P6140170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ngV38U-umo8/U58g5xTIDQI/AAAAAAAAA4w/k9Wrv1ae4ZY/s1600/P6140170.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
John was brave enough to get out though, and he took some wonderful pictures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZDAiRop_Ls/U58hIRGvy1I/AAAAAAAAA44/KRUZuouZXtM/s1600/P6140165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZDAiRop_Ls/U58hIRGvy1I/AAAAAAAAA44/KRUZuouZXtM/s1600/P6140165.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iCZpHUjwgJc/U58hSLXD9YI/AAAAAAAAA5A/E7FdO10sbN4/s1600/P6140162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iCZpHUjwgJc/U58hSLXD9YI/AAAAAAAAA5A/E7FdO10sbN4/s1600/P6140162.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
John convinced me to sit here for a photo. I was so frightened of being that close to the edge! Does it show?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6L-9cRNpVcc/U58hr8x2ACI/AAAAAAAAA5I/1jdanTLOPWQ/s1600/P6150230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6L-9cRNpVcc/U58hr8x2ACI/AAAAAAAAA5I/1jdanTLOPWQ/s1600/P6150230.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The next day we drove through absolutely spectacular scenery to visit St. Elmo. They say that St. Elmo is the best preserved ghost town in Colorado. I am not sure if it truly qualifies as a ghost town, as the general store is still operational, and a few of the cabins are used as summer residences, but it was well worth a visit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbTedcXguAE/U58iaQEl2qI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/2YROJ30B2aM/s1600/P6150231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbTedcXguAE/U58iaQEl2qI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/2YROJ30B2aM/s1600/P6150231.jpg" height="299" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are many structures still standing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YEGsSMvBHhU/U58io467gPI/AAAAAAAAA5c/SaDwq1a-a7k/s1600/P6150219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YEGsSMvBHhU/U58io467gPI/AAAAAAAAA5c/SaDwq1a-a7k/s1600/P6150219.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TXkwtzEYMPE/U58iv0RTiUI/AAAAAAAAA5k/IYTy5nkKW64/s1600/P6150222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TXkwtzEYMPE/U58iv0RTiUI/AAAAAAAAA5k/IYTy5nkKW64/s1600/P6150222.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlLJeFbNQrk/U58i8a6K2YI/AAAAAAAAA5s/nt98Uw-MYUI/s1600/P6150253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlLJeFbNQrk/U58i8a6K2YI/AAAAAAAAA5s/nt98Uw-MYUI/s1600/P6150253.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of the best parts is that the chipmunks are very tame and you can feed them sunflower seeds. Now, I know you shouldn't feed wild animals, but these little creatures are taken care of by the general store and tamed as part of the tourist draw. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-emBN6qMeyLI/U58jfeeU1LI/AAAAAAAAA50/A1kDv0B1X84/s1600/P6150249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-emBN6qMeyLI/U58jfeeU1LI/AAAAAAAAA50/A1kDv0B1X84/s1600/P6150249.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
John enjoyed feeding them too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L_sMjEgk00k/U58jsVJNbYI/AAAAAAAAA58/N3wljW4PiiM/s1600/P6150195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L_sMjEgk00k/U58jsVJNbYI/AAAAAAAAA58/N3wljW4PiiM/s1600/P6150195.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There were chipmunks and two different types of ground squirrel. Look at how chubby this little fellow is!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BgrvxzxLig/U58j_CsxiYI/AAAAAAAAA6E/SOHCwhg1c-E/s1600/P6150187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BgrvxzxLig/U58j_CsxiYI/AAAAAAAAA6E/SOHCwhg1c-E/s1600/P6150187.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And there were so many hummingbirds! I think there will be quite a few paintings in my future as a result of this trip!</div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-16322836886101889412014-05-18T09:43:00.000-07:002014-05-18T09:43:19.404-07:00New Art Supplies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C5mHKF8D_Mc/U3jfRzh3DRI/AAAAAAAAA3U/3CXmsQsXpQI/s1600/squirrel+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C5mHKF8D_Mc/U3jfRzh3DRI/AAAAAAAAA3U/3CXmsQsXpQI/s1600/squirrel+lowres.jpg" height="370" width="400" /></a></div>
There is nothing better than new art supplies, and this month I have indulged myself a little. I read about the Princeton Select Filbert Grainer brushes, and wanted to give them a try. These brushes have divided bristles at the tip. I think they were originally intended to help with painting grass, but I want to see how they worked for painting fur. These brushes are very soft, ideal for watercolor. I found that they were good especially for doing the fur underpainting, where you want to cover larger areas. Since they make parallel lines, the fur does come out looking a little stiff. I went in and used my beloved Silver Brush Ultra Mini round brushes for the details and everything else. I used a #10 round and a #6. That is the beauty of these brushes: even on a fairly large brush, the point is incredibly fine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-20LOVlBjMGI/U3jg4YKK_EI/AAAAAAAAA3g/v2adBsik9Pg/s1600/wren+low+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-20LOVlBjMGI/U3jg4YKK_EI/AAAAAAAAA3g/v2adBsik9Pg/s1600/wren+low+res.jpg" height="338" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also bought some new watercolors, just for fun. They are a Russian brand, White Nights, that was recommended to me by Helen Dardik. I purchased them on eBay. They were quite nice, but I have to say, the Mission Mijello Gold are still my favorites. The White Nights are good, and have a broad selection of colors. However, they are made with honey, which I hadn't encountered before, which gives them a slightly unusual texture. And some of the colors, the earth tones especially, didn't have the strength of pigment that I get from the Mijellos that I usually use. The reds and yellows however, are beautifully bright. One thing I was unable to find out was the toxicity levels. I am pretty vigilant about using non-toxic colors, because I am dreadfully untidy and end up with paint all over my hands most days! So I was a bit uncertain about Russian quality control on that, and didn't sample any of the cadmium colors ( I use Cadmium Hues in other brands, because they are a non-toxic version of the color). But I did have a wonderful time exploring and playing with these new toys!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-26781804222300370482014-04-13T08:31:00.000-07:002014-04-13T08:31:24.421-07:00Art Retreat at The Makerie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZF5OR1I9nUs/U0qnBCTD6xI/AAAAAAAAA2M/c3rANnwCf58/s1600/my+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZF5OR1I9nUs/U0qnBCTD6xI/AAAAAAAAA2M/c3rANnwCf58/s1600/my+hand.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
On Friday, I attended my first art retreat, and I am so glad that I did! It was organized by The Makerie in Boulder, CO, and held at the Colorado Chautauqua. I took Be Kid Creative with Jennifer Mercede, and Again! Again! (pattern creating) with Helen Dardik. I came home so inspired, and with lots of new knowledge to experiment with.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OO8PyuVndYc/U0qo6Dq6ZOI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/a2CMg34VVmM/s1600/P4110012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OO8PyuVndYc/U0qo6Dq6ZOI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/a2CMg34VVmM/s1600/P4110012.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Chautauqua backs up to the Flat Iron mountains in Boulder. Such a view! And the weather was perfect. (unlike today; we have gone from 70 degrees yesterday to snowing today!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Nf7r0rcqLM/U0qpg-8nWyI/AAAAAAAAA2g/buEZq3YjvHE/s1600/P4110016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Nf7r0rcqLM/U0qpg-8nWyI/AAAAAAAAA2g/buEZq3YjvHE/s1600/P4110016.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I took Be Kid Creative in the morning. My goal for this class was to help myself loosen up. I paint very tightly and tend to restrict myself. I always feel like whatever I paint should be usable for my work. This class gave me the permission to just let go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z4DwmSOqE3g/U0qp-8WIwsI/AAAAAAAAA2o/vWPuCYNbGzg/s1600/rooster+sketch910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z4DwmSOqE3g/U0qp-8WIwsI/AAAAAAAAA2o/vWPuCYNbGzg/s1600/rooster+sketch910.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We did a lot of gesture drawing and scribbling.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JZq-V6AeOPo/U0qqaKYutUI/AAAAAAAAA2w/4gjpoSJAoGU/s1600/P4110019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JZq-V6AeOPo/U0qqaKYutUI/AAAAAAAAA2w/4gjpoSJAoGU/s1600/P4110019.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then we started scribbling on large boards. (then I got splinters, so I sanded the board and then scribbled on it!) It didn't matter what marks we made, as we were going to paint over it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aZ_WMGMF1k/U0qrH019uNI/AAAAAAAAA24/ueuVac-FcoI/s1600/P4110023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aZ_WMGMF1k/U0qrH019uNI/AAAAAAAAA24/ueuVac-FcoI/s1600/P4110023.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We started out with our fingers (you can see how messy I got in the photo at the top of the page). Then we did my favorite part. We were blindfolded, and had to work with a partner. My partner loaded the brush with paint and put it in my hand. I didn't even know what color it was. All my senses were focused on just feeling the brush move around the board. I didn't know where or how it looked. My partner would reload the brush when it got dry. We both agreed that the sensation of just painting was wonderful. This is an activity I highly recommend!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I kind of stopped taking pictures at this point, because I just wanted to immerse myself in the experience. I brought the board home, with many more layers of paint on it, and now my son and I are talking about finishing it together. I would love to see how he adds to it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7hfOSIv1QE/U0qsc6ljOtI/AAAAAAAAA3E/2HYx_Iq_jy8/s1600/P4110026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7hfOSIv1QE/U0qsc6ljOtI/AAAAAAAAA3E/2HYx_Iq_jy8/s1600/P4110026.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After a delicious healthy lunch with some new friends and old, I took Helen Dardik's class on pattern making. Now, this was fascinating to watch her process. It was quite a switch to go from a very physical class to a cerebral one, but Helen was a charming teacher. I can't wait to get started putting my new knowledge to use!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I cam home absolutely tired, but happy and renewed. I will certainly keep my eye out for what classes the Makerie offers in the future! I have always been hesitant to spend money on myself to take these somewhat expensive classes, but it was completely worth it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-25336428414437002772013-11-28T08:22:00.001-08:002013-11-28T08:22:50.709-08:00Happy Thanksgiving!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qy_ZNemYIJ0/Updtx-5vUmI/AAAAAAAAA1k/FRzL2uOY5UI/s1600/Happy+Harvest(copyright).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qy_ZNemYIJ0/Updtx-5vUmI/AAAAAAAAA1k/FRzL2uOY5UI/s640/Happy+Harvest(copyright).jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-46290690033402011522013-11-19T07:14:00.003-08:002013-11-19T07:14:48.057-08:00New Fabric CollectionI am always so happy to see a new fabric collection. This is my new Neptune's Garden line. This is just a preview; the line will be in shops in Feb. I love how it came out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ANXLGdi7bQ/Uot_b5VYt6I/AAAAAAAAA00/pKOCPREdMj8/s1600/fabric+one418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ANXLGdi7bQ/Uot_b5VYt6I/AAAAAAAAA00/pKOCPREdMj8/s640/fabric+one418.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The line is based on the wonderful trip to Key West we took this summer. I feel that in order to capture the feeling of a place in a painting you really need to go there in person.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbbaptOFfuE/Uot_82tla1I/AAAAAAAAA1A/cH4gmCLziPI/s1600/fabric+three420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbbaptOFfuE/Uot_82tla1I/AAAAAAAAA1A/cH4gmCLziPI/s320/fabric+three420.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--cXW-JVHlC8/Uot_87qfxuI/AAAAAAAAA08/FLH6YlFodjU/s1600/fabric+two419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--cXW-JVHlC8/Uot_87qfxuI/AAAAAAAAA08/FLH6YlFodjU/s320/fabric+two419.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The line will be available from Wilmington prints and sold in quilt shops.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dsFPg3ewMc/UouAPwh3AEI/AAAAAAAAA1M/YasXpL8GXnA/s1600/fabric+five422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dsFPg3ewMc/UouAPwh3AEI/AAAAAAAAA1M/YasXpL8GXnA/s320/fabric+five422.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40gBa2JMGd0/UouAQMWq5rI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/HwEDzfpBKvI/s1600/fabric+four421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40gBa2JMGd0/UouAQMWq5rI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/HwEDzfpBKvI/s320/fabric+four421.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Designing for fabric is such fun! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-74564750851203539482013-08-10T11:34:00.000-07:002013-11-19T07:17:30.401-08:00JournalingI find it really hard to switch off from work-mode and to let myself just make art for relaxation, do you? I feel like everything has to be licensable. I am trying to break myself of that habit though, but it is making my art feel a bit stressed. I need to get back to just creating for the sheer joy of it, without worrying about the end result.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To that end, I got my journal back out. It has been ages since I just doodled. I thought I would share some of my journal pages with you, dear friends. Sometimes my journal pages are pretty basic and functional, like this spread above.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qHIMfGeDrY/UgaF8oZC92I/AAAAAAAAA0E/dJ6OHOLtRhs/s1600/journal+page+two+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qHIMfGeDrY/UgaF8oZC92I/AAAAAAAAA0E/dJ6OHOLtRhs/s400/journal+page+two+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometimes I use lots of collage and paint. Sometimes I print out my scanned in painted pieces and collage with them! I also have fun with the set of antique stamps I bought in Wisconsin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtPCiHekafM/UgaGZJxc_hI/AAAAAAAAA0M/MoHrVayw9YU/s1600/journal+page+three+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtPCiHekafM/UgaGZJxc_hI/AAAAAAAAA0M/MoHrVayw9YU/s400/journal+page+three+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On other days, I am just in the mood for something fairly quick. A little pen and ink, a little watercolor, ta-da! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cqlwdD4M0sE/UgaGuX3DikI/AAAAAAAAA0U/eWcfEc-Ppow/s1600/journal+page+four+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cqlwdD4M0sE/UgaGuX3DikI/AAAAAAAAA0U/eWcfEc-Ppow/s400/journal+page+four+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometimes I am happy to just leave things in black and white. I draw everything freehand with the pen; I don't draw with pencil first.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LaEfENqLFRk/UgaHPEd_0AI/AAAAAAAAA0c/KpwoENx2Fj4/s1600/journal+page+five+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LaEfENqLFRk/UgaHPEd_0AI/AAAAAAAAA0c/KpwoENx2Fj4/s320/journal+page+five+lowres.jpg" width="197" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometimes I want to use lots of color and all sorts of media. here I have used pen, watercolor, Pan Pastels (love them!), collage, stamps, whee! After several days of letting myself have journal playtime in the evenings, I feel much refreshed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-14884493875585048612013-06-23T08:59:00.001-07:002013-06-23T08:59:27.594-07:00Beachy Dreams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfdey-4_fgI/UccaXql3r7I/AAAAAAAAAzs/CZckEDRq_7I/s1600/Sea+critters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfdey-4_fgI/UccaXql3r7I/AAAAAAAAAzs/CZckEDRq_7I/s640/Sea+critters.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
Oh, it is summer, and what a good summer it is! Except for my recent bout of pneumonia, of course! But thank goodness for antibiotics, because it means I was able to take a wonderful and inspiring trip to the Florida Keys. I even went snorkeling on a coral reef for the first time. Now, I know that according to my clients I should be painting Christmas designs right now, but I just couldn't bear to wait to paint all the beachy goodness. Hooray for the beach!<br />
<br />
What is on your drawing table this week?jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-17151939844470253232013-05-22T10:52:00.000-07:002013-05-22T10:52:37.348-07:00Bears<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RcZ80fu_Tt8/UZ0DhkMQqSI/AAAAAAAAAy4/mU-NKy1Kgl4/s1600/playing+bears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RcZ80fu_Tt8/UZ0DhkMQqSI/AAAAAAAAAy4/mU-NKy1Kgl4/s400/playing+bears.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The weather was beautiful, so my daughter and I decided to do some wildlife watching. We drove to Keenesburg, CO where there is a wildlife rehabilitation center. What a wonderful trip. I was especially fascinated by all the bears they have on the 400 acre property. Since the weather was mild, the bears were feeling very playful. It was wonderful to see them engaging in this behavior in a natural setting.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPf5ZszQp34/UZ0ERmICbOI/AAAAAAAAAzI/phyaIrDJYDE/s1600/bear+climbing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPf5ZszQp34/UZ0ERmICbOI/AAAAAAAAAzI/phyaIrDJYDE/s400/bear+climbing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, I had to do some sketching.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNl95N_uFGI/UZ0E6eXbeOI/AAAAAAAAAzU/0URj_rQNr1U/s1600/IMG_0568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNl95N_uFGI/UZ0E6eXbeOI/AAAAAAAAAzU/0URj_rQNr1U/s320/IMG_0568.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got the wonderful chunky mechanical pencil from Aaron Bros. Art and Framing. I really like it, it is great for loose sketches. The sharpener is in the bottom of the pencil.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9d0PMc0KoEU/UZ0FSHB15LI/AAAAAAAAAzc/FQ85CWDnJFw/s1600/bear+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9d0PMc0KoEU/UZ0FSHB15LI/AAAAAAAAAzc/FQ85CWDnJFw/s320/bear+lowres.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decided to do a watercolor study as well. Perhaps it is time for me to do another lodge series, featuring our friends, the Bears!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-1638019342029823082013-04-27T09:21:00.002-07:002013-04-27T09:21:23.836-07:00GiveawayLooks like most people signed up for the giveaway over on my Facebook page. And we have a winner! Hooray for Debi Matlack! Stay tuned, more exciting things will be happening soon.jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-11658275268591868262013-04-20T08:52:00.002-07:002013-04-20T08:54:34.221-07:00A Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLs81uMShR0/UXK4fJRTLhI/AAAAAAAAAyU/DiYrU3PkPVQ/s1600/giveaway+one.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLs81uMShR0/UXK4fJRTLhI/AAAAAAAAAyU/DiYrU3PkPVQ/s400/giveaway+one.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Okay, it has stopped snowing, the kids are healthy, and life has settled down again. That means it is time for a giveaway! I have put together a box with 2 notepads, a magnet, a boxed set of cards, three flags of assorted sizes, and a jigsaw puzzle. Fun stuff, right? And all you have to do to be entered to win is to leave a comment on this page, or one my facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JaneMadayStudio">https://www.facebook.com/JaneMadayStudio</a>. Extra entries by liking my facebook studio page, or this blog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZiTLy_Tlz0/UXK6FU_WiII/AAAAAAAAAyc/h4KWpg5r1Hc/s1600/puzzle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZiTLy_Tlz0/UXK6FU_WiII/AAAAAAAAAyc/h4KWpg5r1Hc/s400/puzzle.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is a closeup of the puzzle. There will be more giveways to come! Good luck!jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-87544966304441709142013-04-17T13:56:00.000-07:002013-04-17T13:56:34.389-07:00Creative Lettering<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JoekScNE_6s/UW8KhHSMq8I/AAAAAAAAAx8/9US_4fsB4yg/s1600/creative+lettering886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JoekScNE_6s/UW8KhHSMq8I/AAAAAAAAAx8/9US_4fsB4yg/s400/creative+lettering886.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One thing I will admit is that I am not very good at hand-lettering. I do want to improve though, because I love the casual lettering that is so popular right now. I would also like my journal pages to look better. And, I must also admit, it bugs me when there is something I can't do, and that makes me want to practise it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I purchased this book by Jenny Doh, and I am very glad I did. The designs in the book are inspiring to look at, and the artists give tips on how they work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3DJYZLBSsBk/UW8LpaKGI6I/AAAAAAAAAyE/JTxhEMOvt4c/s1600/Lettering+practise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3DJYZLBSsBk/UW8LpaKGI6I/AAAAAAAAAyE/JTxhEMOvt4c/s400/Lettering+practise.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a page from my sketchbook where I did one of the projects in the book, from the Flora Chang chapter. I love her work, so I was happy to see she was included in the book. As you can see, I still have a long way to go before I am proficient, but I am having a good time playing with it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-79395155617149449652013-04-10T11:46:00.003-07:002013-04-10T11:46:43.578-07:00Meow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-efQsamEw3_U/UWWzSZakLKI/AAAAAAAAAxs/kXRtDK57iI4/s1600/kitty+in+progress867+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-efQsamEw3_U/UWWzSZakLKI/AAAAAAAAAxs/kXRtDK57iI4/s640/kitty+in+progress867+copy.jpg" width="546" /></a></div>
Here is what I am working on today. Just because it seems like a long time since I have painted a kitten! Meow!jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-90684442888072089432013-04-09T15:18:00.005-07:002013-04-09T15:20:33.371-07:00Busy DaysThings are busy here at the studio, as usual! It seems to be sample time, too. I love seeing how my products turn out.<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ILQ_QIMqDUQ/UWSQcYVc7jI/AAAAAAAAAxE/D9SaoYjUiRM/s1600/sample+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ILQ_QIMqDUQ/UWSQcYVc7jI/AAAAAAAAAxE/D9SaoYjUiRM/s400/sample+box.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got two big boxes of sample goodness from my agent the other day, and she says two more are on their way. Lots of puzzles, of course, and flags, and some nice stationery products. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ew2J4l4rvU/UWSQ4PO9zjI/AAAAAAAAAxM/gbjh6OT8XjI/s1600/journals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ew2J4l4rvU/UWSQ4PO9zjI/AAAAAAAAAxM/gbjh6OT8XjI/s400/journals.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are some pretty new journals from Enchante. They are available at Ross stores.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBGWQnxeIbo/UWSTPn3TTtI/AAAAAAAAAxU/vsf7UenjlDs/s1600/flower+friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBGWQnxeIbo/UWSTPn3TTtI/AAAAAAAAAxU/vsf7UenjlDs/s320/flower+friends.jpg" width="320" /></a>I love this group of four puzzles from Holdson. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Unfortunately, I think they are only available in New Zealand and parts of Europe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoiZJCbByiI/UWSTfRM3sLI/AAAAAAAAAxc/mtDJ5UJtdaU/s1600/sweetie+pies+puzzle+sample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoiZJCbByiI/UWSTfRM3sLI/AAAAAAAAAxc/mtDJ5UJtdaU/s320/sweetie+pies+puzzle+sample.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is a close up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In other news, the Surtex show in New York is fast approaching, and like all my artist chums, I am painting away so I have lots of exciting new art to show. I am just bursting with new ideas and I don't know what to paint first!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-56083884654724543362013-03-29T07:10:00.000-07:002013-03-29T07:10:06.733-07:00Happy Easter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BAVlWpitpkU/UVWfs9ZjpCI/AAAAAAAAAw0/COCnlRWOeRw/s1600/bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BAVlWpitpkU/UVWfs9ZjpCI/AAAAAAAAAw0/COCnlRWOeRw/s400/bunny.jpg" width="327" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Happy Easter, everyone!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
We are so ready for Spring here at the studio. Our last snowfall is finally starting to melt, so now we are entering the phase of muddy little paws coming in and out of the house all day. Nevertheless, I love the changing seasons. The wet weather means that the grass and flowers will soon be coming back to life. I am wearing bright pink today, no more winter grays for me!</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-20284790455325704032013-03-10T09:53:00.001-07:002013-03-10T09:53:22.984-07:00Emerald Green<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1bzPhaWPlxg/UTy1ASCS_2I/AAAAAAAAAwE/sxigdDz938w/s1600/emerald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="33" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1bzPhaWPlxg/UTy1ASCS_2I/AAAAAAAAAwE/sxigdDz938w/s400/emerald.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
St Patrick's Day is coming up, and that has me thinking about the color green. Pantone's color of the year for 2013 is Emerald green. I can't say that this is my favorite green, as I generally prefer more natural "woodier" greens, but Emerald can look very modern and classy. (actually neither of those adjectives really describe me, so maybe that is why I don't paint with Emerald much!).<br />
<br />
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=Y7fb9_lyo4HjsM&tbnid=7aQBte_VzhfM0M:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dexigner.com%2Fnews%2F26248&ei=T7Y8UYrWM9D_yQGW2YCQBw&bvm=bv.43287494,d.aWc&psig=AFQjCNHOsx2q1WCaZT8CdcC19YpSnO1VDQ&ust=1363019695793483" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="283" id="irc_mi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSxeMkNXcn9D51ocwV2xcUt35b4p1Nygbt-a48lHXs1Yexw0TpiMQ" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Here is a Pantone suggested color palette using Emerald. I am going to see how I can work this fresh color into my designs this year. To mix Emerald in watercolor, I have used Peacock Blue and Permanent Yellow Light. The watercolors I use are Mijello Mission Gold.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBmTJsJ7vLc/UTy5UndOOSI/AAAAAAAAAwU/lEN03Z98iSU/s1600/colors791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="78" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBmTJsJ7vLc/UTy5UndOOSI/AAAAAAAAAwU/lEN03Z98iSU/s400/colors791.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AoBV7_tmDyU/UTy5dW_mddI/AAAAAAAAAwc/GPHBxH3biHI/s1600/bass+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AoBV7_tmDyU/UTy5dW_mddI/AAAAAAAAAwc/GPHBxH3biHI/s400/bass+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been experimenting with finding natural subjects where I can incorporate the new color palette. This is lots of fun and has led me to subjects that I might not have thought of painting otherwise! Happy Painting, everyone!</div>
<br />
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-24593298191468993112013-03-03T12:44:00.001-08:002013-03-03T12:46:07.475-08:00CreativityLast week, I set the photo collage below as my profile pic on a social networking site. I had no idea I would set off a big debate on the nature of creativity, both on and off the site! The debate centered on whether everyone has innate creativity, or whether it is a special gift that only certain people are born with.<br />
<br />
Certainly, some people are highly creative. These are the people who make great strides, both in art and technology. Scientific American Mind magazine featured an article last year, which stated that highly creative people are missing a "filter" in their mind which helps process information. Because that filter is missing, these people group sensory input in different ways from other people, and this leads them to make new connections, both visually and cognitavely. <br />
<br />
However, I think that everyone is born with a certain amount of creativity. You only have to look at the way children play to see them use their imaginations. As children grow, though, many of them start to suppress their creative impulses, from fear of not measuring up, of being mocked, or of not fitting in. Our school system also contributes. The fact that teachers now are required to "teach to the tests" mean that there is little room for creative or out of the box thinking in the standard classroom. My compliments go out to all the teachers who manage to overcome the regulations set in place and make the learning process fun and stimulating. That requires some real creativity!<br />
<br />
Creativity doesn't just mean that someone is good at an artform or can come up with a new invention. Do you ever deviate from a recipe, adding ingredients that you think will taste better? Do you add your own touches when you sing a song? Do you play with your children and come up with new ways to encourage or inspire them? How about the outfits that you wear each day; I bet you don't wear head to toe monochrome, day in and day out.<br />
<br />
Creativity is part of every day, whether we realize it or not. It is up to you to nuture whatever feeds your creative spirit. Dance, sing, hug your children. Draw, paint, cook. If nothing else, put your head back and daydream. How do you express yourself? I would love to know.jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-31855529132935593342013-02-24T11:16:00.002-08:002013-02-24T11:16:40.291-08:00I'm on Facebook!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gh8DrK8izYs/USpmjBTTo-I/AAAAAAAAAvw/t-FWKuUPVFc/s1600/I'm+Creative+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gh8DrK8izYs/USpmjBTTo-I/AAAAAAAAAvw/t-FWKuUPVFc/s400/I'm+Creative+lowres.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
Hey, Gang! I just made a Facebook page for the studio! Stop over and let me know you "like" me (you really like me!). We're going to do fun stuff like have giveaways so make sure you check in every now and then to see what we're up to.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JaneMadayStudio/photos_stream#!/JaneMadayStudio">https://www.facebook.com/JaneMadayStudio/photos_stream#!/JaneMadayStudio</a>jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-38029091346721657232013-02-20T06:59:00.000-08:002013-02-20T06:59:34.748-08:00Waiting for Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-354VLDdWhmg/USThtRsO8ZI/AAAAAAAAAvc/wXW6l1Tx3pE/s1600/spring+bouquet+lowres.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-354VLDdWhmg/USThtRsO8ZI/AAAAAAAAAvc/wXW6l1Tx3pE/s640/spring+bouquet+lowres.tif" width="537" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh, I am so ready for Spring! I want to paint all the bright and pretty colors, but outside my window the snowflakes are falling. Oh well, soon it will be summer and I will be complaining that I am too hot, so I guess I should learn to appreciate the moment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been thinking about how technology has changed my life since my college days. When I was in art school, the school only had three computers, and there was only one small class to teach how to use them. Then I graduated and went to work at Hallmark. Computer art was in it's infancy then. I was trained in using them (reluctantly) and we had to save everything on these giant discs called Bernoullis, that were about the size of an ipad today. They could only store one piece of art. (Do I sound like a dinosaur yet? You must think I learned how to draw by chiseling my art on rocks!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fast forward to today. I still paint the traditional way, but I simply must have my photoshop programs to manipulate the art afterwards. The painting above can now be placed on all sorts of different backgrounds and products with (practically) a touch of a button. And if I accidentally splash some paint, whoosh, I can erase it, just like that. But a worrying trend in the outside world seems to be that the actual skills of drawing and painting are being neglected because it is just so easy to whip something up with the computer. There are some people who create the most amazing art with the computer, and I do admire them so, but there is also a lot of slapped together work. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I go for a few days without actually drawing or painting, I get a bit irritable, do you? I need the tactile feel of the brush or pencil in my hand. I need to escape to the art planet and pour out my heart onto the page. So I would encourage you, for the benefit of your heart, your soul, and your skills, to draw, draw, draw!</div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-16620270856291117042013-02-13T11:06:00.001-08:002013-02-13T11:07:26.958-08:00Paintin' Peacocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xj-Ru50CFGQ/URvkMELL8cI/AAAAAAAAAvI/O6srs-a6dro/s1600/unfinished+peacock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xj-Ru50CFGQ/URvkMELL8cI/AAAAAAAAAvI/O6srs-a6dro/s400/unfinished+peacock.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I am still painting away on peacocks and just loving all the colors! I thought you might like to see this painting in progress. Thank goodness for gouache paints, because the tail needs lots of layers. I have done the underpainting of the feathers with Raw Umber watercolor (Daler Rowney is my fave brand of Raw Umber as it is warmer than some other brands). Now I am using a mixture of French Ultramarine and Turquoise gouache over the top. Finally, I will use blue and green watercolor pencils to finish. It is lots of fun to have so many tools at my disposal! I love to play with different mediums. My job is such fun!<br />
<br />
I am also lucky to have good friends to walk with me on my journey. Yesterday I was really struggling with the background to place these birds on (using photoshop). I sent out a cry for help to a dear clever friend, and she helped me see what I should do. Big hugs going out to all my art friends today, even the ones I haven't met yet!jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-49063648764741173482013-02-11T12:56:00.002-08:002013-02-11T12:56:30.961-08:00EtsyHello everyone! Jane's assistant here, things have been busy here at the studio, but we just wanted to let all of you know that some of Jane's prints are now available on Etsy! There will be more added soon within the next couple days. <br />
<br />
Are there any specific peices that you would like to see as prints in the store? <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JaneMadayArt">http://www.etsy.com/shop/JaneMadayArt</a>jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-65461711982895462382013-02-11T07:17:00.002-08:002013-02-11T19:01:54.630-08:00In the Studio This WeekIt looks like a chilly week in the Studio this week, and I do have Spring Fever! Still, even though we got a little snow here in Colorado, at least we didn't get the three feet that they got in the North East. I like snow, and we are having a drought, but I do draw the line somewhere!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7HCJkh8rpXU/URkKo4R8ufI/AAAAAAAAAuo/l3E77U1WKAg/s1600/peacock+again+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7HCJkh8rpXU/URkKo4R8ufI/AAAAAAAAAuo/l3E77U1WKAg/s400/peacock+again+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm painting peacocks this week. I love the colors, but it is proving to be more of a challenge than I thought. There are so many layers in that tail! I'm struggling with the background as well. I really want to make use of the new "color of the year": Pantone's Emerald. I am sure it will come together eventually!</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-76871910099055404492013-01-30T12:04:00.001-08:002013-01-30T12:17:37.779-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jane's assistant here! I will be guest blogging to help with Jane's workload. It is sample day here at the studio. Here are some beautiful new journals and a photo album from Enchante that will be going on sale at Ross. What a great way to organize your thoughts and memories! We're looking forward to lots of fun new products from this company this Spring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlJY79EfTQ4/UQl14E-wMyI/AAAAAAAAAuU/WihTfRDU9n4/s1600/P1010249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlJY79EfTQ4/UQl14E-wMyI/AAAAAAAAAuU/WihTfRDU9n4/s640/P1010249.JPG" width="473" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Do any of you have any thoughts or input on what you you would like to see updated more frequently? We would love to hear them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-17968316505366250602013-01-19T09:57:00.001-08:002013-01-19T09:57:07.416-08:00Atlanta Gift Show 2013Time for another trip to Atlanta for the winter gift show! I love going to this show. It is so stimulating to see new products and I am always so happy to hang out with my artist friends! Since I work at home most of the time, getting out to shows like these is just vital. The America's Mart, where the show is held is huge. There are three buildings that range fro 15-18 stories tall. There are 5000 permanent showrooms, and 3000-5000b temporary showrooms. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2Z6PuQsYBM/UPray651JcI/AAAAAAAAAtg/ev8180FDzhs/s1600/escalator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2Z6PuQsYBM/UPray651JcI/AAAAAAAAAtg/ev8180FDzhs/s400/escalator.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This gives you an idea of the size of the Mart. This was taken on the 18th floor at the top of the escalator, and yes, it was very scary to hang over the edge and snap the photo!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxGhEHzNEsc/UPra8Qh7S_I/AAAAAAAAAt4/3tceoSFb2Xg/s1600/tmporaries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxGhEHzNEsc/UPra8Qh7S_I/AAAAAAAAAt4/3tceoSFb2Xg/s400/tmporaries.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here is a view of the temporary showrooms.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nhAh9_xVs0o/UPrZ9KR0sGI/AAAAAAAAAtE/uisRNoBhjqY/s1600/toilettattoos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nhAh9_xVs0o/UPrZ9KR0sGI/AAAAAAAAAtE/uisRNoBhjqY/s400/toilettattoos.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of the most fun things about the show is finding the products with my art. So, to show that I am not a snob when it comes to which products I will license to, let me present: Toilet Tattoos! Ta-da!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFCQB0nx_64/UPrZ8VhcbsI/AAAAAAAAAs8/T0x-FgkinuM/s1600/puppy+and+kitten+flags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFCQB0nx_64/UPrZ8VhcbsI/AAAAAAAAAs8/T0x-FgkinuM/s400/puppy+and+kitten+flags.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, there were lots of flags showcasing my art. This is one of my favorite product categories. I love designing for flags.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VIJTl1sm_9c/UPrZsxFapzI/AAAAAAAAAsc/HjccT6VtBjo/s1600/evergreetings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VIJTl1sm_9c/UPrZsxFapzI/AAAAAAAAAsc/HjccT6VtBjo/s400/evergreetings.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Evergreen has come out with a nifty new product; greeting cards with an enclosed flag. What a fun thing to get in the mail!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ze0v2-iXjWs/UPrZ8Ih2guI/AAAAAAAAAsw/G3IlNTQOP9E/s1600/pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ze0v2-iXjWs/UPrZ8Ih2guI/AAAAAAAAAsw/G3IlNTQOP9E/s400/pillow.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is always fun to design for home decor. Here is a pillow from C&F Enterprises. They did kitchen towels as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAQAIBS29R8/UPrZ7r8_FtI/AAAAAAAAAso/Bean0gfE7jM/s1600/mugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAQAIBS29R8/UPrZ7r8_FtI/AAAAAAAAAso/Bean0gfE7jM/s400/mugs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And mugs are always fun. The Rustic Lodge line from Downeast concepts also has matching stationery products.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_UOoN4mj4g/UPrZ8FbFxdI/AAAAAAAAAs4/bemokN_X8Bk/s1600/The+gang+at+dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_UOoN4mj4g/UPrZ8FbFxdI/AAAAAAAAAs4/bemokN_X8Bk/s320/The+gang+at+dinner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But "hangin' with my peeps" is always one of the best parts of the show. But yikes, I look a bit drunken there, don't I! Believe me, I only had iced tea that night! What a wonderfully kind and talented group of friends I have made through this career I have chosen. I am very blessed. In this photo are Joy Molina Hall, Sharon Himes, Terri Conrad, and me when we went out to dinner on Friday night. Three days of laughing, hugging, and inspiration, and now I am ready to get back to painting, hooray!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-74415619276086061012012-08-30T08:31:00.001-07:002012-08-30T08:43:08.755-07:00A Product Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gf-E1I5RgwY/UD-J_nE_wYI/AAAAAAAAAro/VjBx6OinzS0/s1600/goldfinch+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gf-E1I5RgwY/UD-J_nE_wYI/AAAAAAAAAro/VjBx6OinzS0/s400/goldfinch+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVW8tftm-ug/UD-FNAiA60I/AAAAAAAAArU/Hk-gfGkkWdA/s1600/goldfinch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
Last week, the kind folks at Martin F. Weber sent me a packet of their new Mijello Mission Gold watercolors to try. I'm in the middle of an acrylic painting, so I haven't done a lot with them yet, but I couldn't wait to at least give them a try! I have to say, if you like really bright, intense colors, you should check these out. One thing that is nice is that they don't fade very much when they dry. I didn't have a lot of luck with lifting out, but it could be the paper I was using; I have had trouble lifting out on Strathmore paper whatever brand of paint I use. The colors went on very smoothly and dispersed well in water washes. I'll definately be playing with these some more.<br />
<br />
I also tried out my new Copic fountain pen. I didn't realize Copic made these as well as markers. I had a little trouble with the ink line petering out before I was done, as if the ink wasn't flowing as smoothly as it could have. It could be that the pen has to be used a bit more to get the ink really going, or perhaps it was because they had been stored flat, rather than point down. So the jury is still out on that one!<br />
<br />jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614136021113548909.post-10347412001470520972012-08-19T10:32:00.001-07:002012-08-19T10:32:17.935-07:00A Trip to England continued<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-od8LA9E32mU/UDEcEeMnt_I/AAAAAAAAApQ/6co3LSAlr8s/s1600/sketch+lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-od8LA9E32mU/UDEcEeMnt_I/AAAAAAAAApQ/6co3LSAlr8s/s400/sketch+lowres.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A trip to England wouldn't be the same without a stop in busy, bustling London! It was exciting to be there during the run up to the Olympics, although it did mean that some areas were off limits, and other areas were very busy. We managed to get all the priorities done though! The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St James Park, The London Eye, Covent Garden, etc, all in one day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tbFCh2jtNBA/UDEcj0ojCPI/AAAAAAAAApY/7fML76hfH9M/s1600/tower+bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tbFCh2jtNBA/UDEcj0ojCPI/AAAAAAAAApY/7fML76hfH9M/s320/tower+bridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EgcvMUTSyDc/UDEcu1uAhoI/AAAAAAAAApg/x7wIOlIjpCI/s1600/big+ben.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EgcvMUTSyDc/UDEcu1uAhoI/AAAAAAAAApg/x7wIOlIjpCI/s320/big+ben.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m9y5u7eNvgY/UDEef86WZDI/AAAAAAAAAqA/Cd7MEQdp6_A/s1600/graffiti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m9y5u7eNvgY/UDEef86WZDI/AAAAAAAAAqA/Cd7MEQdp6_A/s320/graffiti.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have always been fascinated by ancient graffiti. One thing I like to do when visiting very old castles and buildings is to see what is the oldest graffiti I can find. In the prison cells of the Tower of London there are beautiful, intricate wall carvings. Some were done by the prisoners, others were done for the prisoners.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j25JDRYurPA/UDEdbyZ_f5I/AAAAAAAAApo/YTHnRJREm30/s1600/statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j25JDRYurPA/UDEdbyZ_f5I/AAAAAAAAApo/YTHnRJREm30/s320/statue.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One thing I really enjoyed in many of the places we went were the "living statues". Mime artists who paint themselves and create really elaborate poses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Xy6vw9UGoM/UDEd1KbnRDI/AAAAAAAAApw/7QqI0mCh8cU/s1600/pretty+window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Xy6vw9UGoM/UDEd1KbnRDI/AAAAAAAAApw/7QqI0mCh8cU/s320/pretty+window.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And of course, there is just so much prettiness and visual interest wherever you go. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNew9qbzAPs/UDEeMLpO_MI/AAAAAAAAAp4/S4UBQIXoSFE/s1600/Durham+doorknocker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNew9qbzAPs/UDEeMLpO_MI/AAAAAAAAAp4/S4UBQIXoSFE/s320/Durham+doorknocker.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Arld5QjJKH8/UDEf9lURulI/AAAAAAAAAqY/QhRlUyEDnNw/s1600/gargoyle+birds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Arld5QjJKH8/UDEf9lURulI/AAAAAAAAAqY/QhRlUyEDnNw/s320/gargoyle+birds.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YVuqQCNTlDk/UDEfKEr_mTI/AAAAAAAAAqI/U0ekYQFie5k/s1600/devil's+imp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YVuqQCNTlDk/UDEfKEr_mTI/AAAAAAAAAqI/U0ekYQFie5k/s320/devil's+imp.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
York is full of interesting carvings like these, that date back to the time before most people could read. The shops would have a carved sign to indicate what they sold; a sheep for a wool shop, etc. This devil's imp shows that this shop was originally a printer's. The boy apprentices who ran around delivering the work were called printer's imps!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APL6l4FHbB0/UDEf0g7ZMvI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/xGiJS5F8Ql8/s1600/Lindisfarne+castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APL6l4FHbB0/UDEf0g7ZMvI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/xGiJS5F8Ql8/s320/Lindisfarne+castle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, I can never stay in cities for too long, so we headed for the coast. This is the castle on Lindisfarne, an island that can only be reached at low tide. At high tide the road is completely covered, so you have to time your journey carefully so you are not marooned!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvmHK5Y6_5A/UDEh7N9Ps-I/AAAAAAAAAqg/L8lGn4maUtI/s1600/farne+islands+boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvmHK5Y6_5A/UDEh7N9Ps-I/AAAAAAAAAqg/L8lGn4maUtI/s320/farne+islands+boat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From there we drove to Seahouse, where we could hop on a boat to the Farne Islands, a bird sanctuary. I was in bird watching heaven! We were very lucky with the weather; as you can see, the North Sea is quite calm, which is unusual!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6aSPaoV_edc/UDEiX-s7gQI/AAAAAAAAAqo/J_bJPXhzEBU/s1600/puffin+standing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6aSPaoV_edc/UDEiX-s7gQI/AAAAAAAAAqo/J_bJPXhzEBU/s320/puffin+standing.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EPchWHtR58/UDEidHC4VhI/AAAAAAAAAqw/vpWl0ajwo9k/s1600/puffin+peering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EPchWHtR58/UDEidHC4VhI/AAAAAAAAAqw/vpWl0ajwo9k/s320/puffin+peering.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EqtH1zx3cY/UDEiii9sj4I/AAAAAAAAAq4/ol02Dp2-xCE/s1600/tern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EqtH1zx3cY/UDEiii9sj4I/AAAAAAAAAq4/ol02Dp2-xCE/s320/tern.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We saw so many wonderful birds. PUFFINS! of course, and terns, guillemots, razorbills, just about every sea bird you can imagine. It was one of the best days I have ever had.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6LNPGoLjh0k/UDEi-m29Y2I/AAAAAAAAArA/xa1Le4p3Pvg/s1600/seals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6LNPGoLjh0k/UDEi-m29Y2I/AAAAAAAAArA/xa1Le4p3Pvg/s320/seals.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And to top it all off, after we left the island we saw seals! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
jane madayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11104318734644294870noreply@blogger.com4