Ive been napping this past week!

Yes I have been bit of a slacker with Colored Sprinkles. I just needed a break and I needed to put things in order. I am trying to decide the future of this place and what path I am going to take it down!
my options:
A) what I have been doing(interviews, reviews, etc.)
B) my own place for my art and my ramblings.
C) both A and B

Not quite sure yet, haven't decided. I have gained enormous inspiration from several blogs and I have also become interested in new projects that I have on the back burner at the moment.

I am almost hitting 1,000 views on this here blog and that makes me very happy!

Tonight I head out to the island and then tomorrow it is a pumpkin and apple picking Saturday with my friend Melissa and a few of her friends. Should be fun and I will have plenty of pictures to post come Monday:)

As for now just give me this time and by the end of the first week of October I will have this place on the right track.

Thank you as always for stopping by and reading.
I look forward to many more posts that may be enjoyable and inspiring to you!!

My self portrait challenge #1...............

So I stumbled across this great site.............. The Self Portrait Challenge through someones blog, of which I cant remember because I have been looking at so many lately (its addicting... list coming soon)

Every month a new self portrait challenge is posted and then you just go with the subject and snap away.

For the month of September the challenge had to do with "In the bathroom" I finally uploaded my take on the whole "In the bathroom" title and here it is..........................................................................................

"Qtip Patty" haha

Swapping..........

I'm off on the swapping addiction.
There are many great websites that offer swaps and they match you up with fellow swappers. Swaps consist of anything and everything including homemade and store bought items. Its a fun thing to find in your mailbox besides bills.
What I'm really interested in are international swaps.............because with these you have the chance of getting some great items from different countries.
The following is a list of stuff up for swap for gimme your stuff.
I look forward to hearing from far off people in distant lands ready to swap some great stuff:)

What I will send:

Magazines
Colorful Yarns
Fun Jewelry
Candles
Books
arts and crafts scraps
beauty products
various stationary items
soaps
candy
Beads
and tons more:) If you would like something in particular just let me know!!!!!

WHAT I am looking for:

great stuff from other countries
magazines
jewelry
teas
anything vintage/old
postcards
anything French:)
Handmade stuffs
Arts and Crafts items
Candles
hair items
books
Music (especially french Indie or pop)
Recipes (especially from France)
Soaps
beads
Scottish and Irish items
Comic books from other countries


Just feel free to leave me a comment or message if you would like to do a swap!!!!

Leonie's life.

The following artist is someone I actually know from a message board I used to go to about 2 years ago. Back then she was just starting out and getting her feet planted on the ground. Now she has published a book, has a great website/blog and has had and will be having(again) her very own art exhibit!

She is as inspirational as she is endearing.


Who is Leonie?

I'm a 24 year old artist, illustrator, writer, photographer and all round Goddess. I run artists circles and spiritual women's circles, and also organise and run spiritual and creative women's retreats. I self published my first book "Today I grew like a wildflower" when I was 22.

You can check out my online playground at ~ Leonie Life
My Goddess of Leonie etsy store is at ~ Leonie's Etsy

Top 5 Inspirations:
1. Mama Earth
2. Great Spirit
3. Joy
4. Colour and Light
5. Goddesses

You are an artists of many many mediums, which one gives you the most satisfaction? Which is your favorite to work in?

I love playing in all kinds of mediums... I think a balance of them all keeps me happy and in the flow. Too much of one can make me a bit headsy. I feel like I want to share about spirit and how I see life, and to share it in as many ways as possible.

A perfect day would be one of painting goddesses, taking divine photography, writing out my spirit lessons to share and creating sacred space with women. Full, lush and busting at the seams with joy!

What do you most of your paintings represent? What subject/style are you drawn to when painting?

Most of my artworks represent goddesses, great spirit and the divine in every woman. I love creating artworks that will bring joy and soul~space into homes.

I paint in acrylics, ink, gouache and mixed media… whatever calls me at the time. Sometimes I need to get my hands messy with paint, sometimes I need to create delicate watery vibrant gouache and inks.

Important people in your life and why:
(list as many as you like or as little)

My Self... learning, exploring and discovering the treasure and Goddess I am.
My lover and journey man… he sees the highest parts of me and reminds me to head to her when I forget.
My dear dear mama, papa and siblings… they are a part of my skin, blood, breath and heart.
My goddess sisters from life, women's circles and artists circles… they give me the space and place to dream myself bigger and deeper.

I see that you had your very own exhibit, congrats!!!! How do it feel to see your stuff up there and being looked at? What did you take from the whole experience? AND would you do it all again? (probably yes:)

Thank you very much :)
I had my first solo art exhibition at a gorgeous little gallery in the country last year... You can read all about it here: Welcome to my Exhibition!


Would I do it all again?
Funnily enough, I just organised my next one today!

It felt quite amazing to see all my art on the walls. I actually lay down on the floor of the gallery just to soak it all up: I wanted to feel like I was in a sea of my own visions and colour. It felt perfect and vulnerable in so many ways: I felt like it was my skin on canvas on display, and I also felt brave and wide open. It was also incredibly special for me to have so many of people of my heart~family to be there in the one room together, looking at my art and making divine connections.


What is your number one basic belief about life, love? What rule do you like to live by?

I believe that we are all divine, living out our own stories and journeying to where we need to go. All of life is sacred.

The next top 10 things coming up for Leonie:
1. Solo art exhibition
2.Writing book proposals
3. A month adventuring in India
4. Having a greeting card range published
5. Being Leonie
6. Organising and running a women's retreat

7. As my love reminds me "Life is for Being, not Doing"
8. Wild adventuring
9. Sacred dreaming
10. A life of divine creation

And last but not least.........leave us with one great inspirational quote that you may know by heart or you just came across:

"Joy is an option" ~ that one is my own... and sums up who I am and what I believe. Magic is just around the corner... put your magic goggles on!

Created by Keemo!!!!

The following artist's paintings are truly one of a kind and interesting. He takes everyday portraits of people and turns them into one of a kind conversation pieces for your wall. With collectors of his art all around the world it leaves one wondering............who is this Keemo guy and how does his creative side of the brain tick?

Well I know why, so why don't you go read and know why as well!!!

Name: Keemo

Age: 34

Home sweeeeeeet home: Grand Rapids, MI

Website: Keemo Gallery

Myspace: Kemmo's Myspace page

Ebay: Shop Keemo on Ebay



Top 5 can’t live with out art tools/supplies:


1. Watercolors and Ink. I have this little setup that I can take anywhere to paint. The paints are enclosed in a little box. Put a rubber band around my pens. Good to go.

2. Sound. Music, Talk Radio, This American Life. I love streaming This American Life while painting. Nothing makes me sit back and be quiet like This American Life.

3. Time. I need more of it! If you know where to find more time, please email me!

4. People. Just about every one of my paintings is based upon someone I have met or ran into over the course of the day. Without them, no paintings.

5. My Family. This should really be number one on the list. Their support is unbelievable. I would be lost without them.



What brought you into the art world? Have you always had a knack for painting and drawing?
I have been drawing for as long as I can remember. I used to draw everything as a kid. Classic kid stuff; Cars, Monsters, Football Players, etc... Transformers were huge when I was a kid. Used to draw them all the time.
I remember one drawing I did when I was in elementary school. I was probably about 4th grade. It was a drawing of the Detroit Lions Quarterback at the time. Can't remember his name. Anyway, I was so proud of it. Without a doubt, it was my best drawing to date. Well, the quarterback had a towel tucked into the front of his pants to wipe his hands in between plays. On the towel I spelled out the team name. However, I spelled it Detroit LOINS (instead of Lions). That pretty much sums up my life right there. It wasn’t until about 8Th grade that I discovered that it is OK to "color out of the lines", so to speak. Haven’t drawn a quarterback since.


The techniques, medium etc you use in your pieces are usually:
I mainly paint with watercolor and ink and I usually work small. The main reason is that it just fits into my lifestyle and how I work. I work in really small bits of time. 15 minutes here, 20 minutes there, a little ink on one painting, then add color on another painting, while that is one is drying, I’ll start another painting. It is not uncommon to have 3-5 paintings going at the same time.

Usually, by the time 10:00 or 11:00 PM rolls around, I will have a few finished paintings.


Your portraits are not your run of the mill paintings, they have a style of their own. Where do your ideas come from? What resources do find useful?
To some degree, I don’t try to think too hard about my painting anymore. I just try to enjoy the process of painting, and to just let them be something genuine from me. The ideas come from everything. I know that sounds vague but its true. I try to let everything be a potential spark for an idea. This could be an interaction with a cashier at a grocery store or maybe tripping while stepping off the curb. For example, last week, I pull into the gas station and pull up to the gas pump about 3 seconds before someone else. That guy gave me the finger and then went to another pump. He kept staring at me like I he was going to come over give me a lesson. I thought, “That guy deserves a portrait.” When I got home I started a painting of him.


What would you consider to be your biggest achievements so far from your artwork?
Hmmmm. Biggest achievement? I received an email a few months ago from a person (I’m not sure if I should give his name) who has bought many pieces of my artwork. He wrote that his family really enjoyed my artwork. Particularly, his young son. I think he is about 8. He wrote, that his son was so inspired by my artwork, that he started creating his own drawings and selling them. He even opened an “Art Stand” (replacing the Lemonade Stand) on the side of the road and sold his creations. That makes it all the hours and all the paint worth it right there.

Favorite artist who influence you:
Without a doubt, David Lynch has to be my favorite artist. I saw Eraserhead when I was about 15. It changed my life. If my artwork was a David Lynch character, it would be be the Log Lady from Twin Peaks! As far other painters, there are so many great painters out there. Neck Face, Mike Egan and The Inky Dreadfuls come to mind right now.


For those out there who are just beginning to pursue the art field and possibly sell their work, what would be some great advice for them to ponder before heading out there?
I guess always remember what you are creating art for in the first place. Once you start getting into the world of selling your art, to some degree, your artwork becomes a product. (Like it or not. It does.) People look at your work and judge it based on many things that may have nothing to do with why you created the piece. Not everyone will like your art, no matter who you are so don’t take criticism personally. Just keep doing your thing and enjoy what you are doing and stay true to your own art. (Oh yeah, you may want to be sure to have another job to pay cover the bills and all the painting supplies.)

And as always you can find many more of Keemo's intriguing paintings at: Keemo's Gallery

Now thats crocheting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

With the cold days and nights coming I found it only suitable to feature an artists that creates brilliant hats and headbands. Now we are not talking about your average crocheted beanie hat here, we are talking about pieces of art work literally. Oh and one correction, feel free to flaunt any of her styles in the Spring and Summer days as well!!!

Ok ok just go and see why you might want to consider sprucing up your head attire from now until, well whenever!!!

Bio

Name(nicknames as well): Monica Burnett or moni, monifer, moo

Age: 21

Where home is for you: Orange county, CA

Song on your ipod/cd player or even record player as of lately: Anything off the new Rilo Kiley cd!

Someone you have looked up to throughout your life: My mom, when I was little she would make things all the time, I loved to just watch her.

Book you have been reading or your last favorite read: Vogue (I'm a scholar, clearly)

Something you find yourself loving to over indulge in: Yarn & clothes!

Interview

1. At what age did you first pick up a crocheting needle? Were you self taught or did someone teach you? And what was the first item ever crocheted by you?
I guess I was about 14 when I started "hooking" ,my mom taught me how! Mom is always making blankets and cute little baby sweaters, knitting and crocheting up a storm!
So I asked her to share the love and teach me the ways of the hook.
The first thing I ever crocheted was a silly little red hat.


2. Your headbands, hats, necklaces, etc have a lot of character. How do you come up with the designs for them? Are they made up of a combination of patterns and techniques?
I don't know how to read patterns, I'm not good with math and counting and all that business. I just finagle around with the yarn and my crochet hook until something pretty comes out!
I'm not sure if my techniques are legitimate or not.. but hey if it looks like a hat in the end, then I win!

3. You have been featured in "Adorn" magazine, in boutiques, on Craft Lab(show on HGTV) and your hats and headbands are making their way onto to some of the characters on two Nickelodeon shows. It all must feel so surreal, how has it felt?
Its crazy! But its really nice to get the recognition. I always miss it though when they play the nickelodeon shows that feature my stuff, I would love to see it!

4. Besides crocheting all your sensational accessories, what else fills up your free time? Any other activities you enjoy?
I love playing with my dog, seeing friends, doing artsy stuff, cooking and baking, oh and thrift shopping!

5. When did you start up your business/website? I'm sure with gratification comes stress, how do you manage that whole aspect?
Hmmm I suppose I have always been selling things, ever since I was little. But I started my site about 3 years ago. I never really get stressed out about my hat business, its just all so fun and its everything I love to do. Sometimes it gets hectic or busy but its all worth it!


6. In addition to yarn what other elements/textiles do you use in your designs?
I like to throw in some fabrics, and I love embellishments like rhinestones, beads, little doo dads, lace, anything pretty I can find! I love to search thrift stores for ideas or little things to add.

7. Do you plan on broadening your business? Adding other items? What are your plans for monicaburnetthats.com down the line?
I like to keep it small, just selling things on my site, to small shops and at craft shows. That way I am 100% involved, I love that.
And about adding more items..I am always coming up with new ideas, I recently just added wrist bands! Whenever I get an idea I whip up a practice piece and see if its good enough to put up on the site.

And sometimes I like to end my interview with a fun, sometimes off the subject sort of question, so here it is...........


8. I noticed you have an adorable little dog............tell us a little about your friend?
That's Nutmeg! Shes 3 years old, I got her 1 year ago from the animal shelter.
She has been known to steal balls of yarn and run around the house decorating everything in a layer of string.. shes nuts.

Be sure to visit Monica's website to view all of the styles she has out at the moment. There is also an array of headbands, wristbands as well as a mens line.

monicaburnetthats.com

Monica also accepts custom orders which is a great way to really make yours a one of a kind Burnett hat!!!!

Show some love to "Much Love"

Along my expedition to dig up various artists, crafters etc. I came upon this fun jewelry maker whose line goes by the name of "Much Love" To me it seems that she named her line after all the love she puts into each fun piece. But you will just have to read for yourself and possibly go own one of her handmade vintage jewels!!!!




Bio

Name(any nicknames): Anna (no nicknames)

The place you call home: I have had many homes. I lived in the UK, Indonesia, and now Australia… but most of my life growing up was spent in my hometown Yogyakarta, Indonesia… My province is actually called DIY. So I’m literally a DIY girl! :)

Most used art/craft supply: a lot of ring bases and buttons

Any hobbies besides jewelry making: Web/graphic design

One of your favorite ways to relax: Watching a Gilmore Girls DVD, with subtitles in a random foreign language

The time of the year you enjoy the most: I don’t have a specific favorite time, I like the type of nice days that just surprise you out of nowhere!

Interview

1. How did you begin creating your rings and necklaces etc? When did you decide to finally start selling them?
Before, I just started by making jewelry for myself. Then at the beginning of this year, I started making a lot of rings, and decided to sell them through Meet Me at Mike’s, an indie shop in Melbourne. It was really scary gathering up the courage to approach them in the first place! So I was delighted when they agreed to stock them. Not too long afterwards, I started making and selling cupcake necklaces through them too. Then a few months after, I opened up my Etsy shop.

2. Why the name "Much love" is it because much love is put into each and every single design?
Yes! I pour in a lot of love into each and every piece. And actually, the first “Much Love” rings collection featured a lot of heart shapes, so I thought the name suited it perfectly at the time, and it’s just carried on until now.

3. I noticed your pieces contain several elements and layers. What might go into say a pair of your earrings? What objects and materials do you work with the most?
I try to make my pieces quite simple. A pair of earrings would just consist of the studs and the chosen material, either a pair of cameos or buttons. I sometimes layer 2 buttons for my rings – one layer being the background, the other being the main feature (e.g. see the squirrel ring). Having layers allows me to experiment with different combinations.
For my rings and earrings, I work with a lot of vintage and new buttons, cameos, beads, and plastic flat backs. I also enjoy working with polymer clay, which results in my cupcake necklaces… and sometimes I make them for rings too.

4. Do you have a favorite place where you like to pick up all your supplies and materials that you use to make your jewelry?
There’s not really a single favorite place, I like to explore a variety of shops, markets, and online stores. I like the excitement of finding something new in different places.

5. What draws you to the whole vintage appeal?
I love the charms and uniqueness of vintage items, as it’s not something mass-produced that everyone can have or wear.




6. Besides ETSY are there any other places/or ways people can find and purchase your jewelry?
Madeit.com.au, Meet Me at Mike’s in Melbourne, or just by sending me a message or comment on myspace!
I’m currently looking for other shops to stock my stuff, whether it may be an online or physical shop

7. Being the designer herself who puts out these fun pieces, how many do you own? Are you constantly wearing what you make? Any compliments in stores and what have you?
Oh, absolutely!! I have so many pieces that I wear and keep for myself. A general rule is that I don’t want to make a jewelry piece that I would not wear myself. I do get occasional compliments from my friends, who sometimes also become a Much Love customer.

8. Is this what you love to do the most?? Is being a jewelry designer in your future? What would be your main goal for "Much Love?"
I definitely LOVE what I’m doing. I would like to keep building the business, and make Much Love become more widely recognized by people. I dream of the day I see someone on the streets wearing a Much Love jewelry!
I’d like to think I’ll continue to be a jewelry designer for many years to come, even though it may not be my main career, it’s more like a profitable hobby :)

Maybe you would enjoy wearing one of Anna's one of a kind vintage inspired pieces???

You can find her...............................here.........Much Love Myspace page ...............and here......... Much Love Etsy shop ............................as well as at..............Much Love Made it page !!!!

Edward and Marcus!

Well this is what has been keeping me busy(besides all the other blog stuff) I recently took in two Green Iguanas named Edward(after Edward Scissorhands himself) and Marcus ( after Neiman Marcus, my boss's favorite store) They are just babies and about the size of my hand. In about 4 years they can grow up to 6 feet long, thats a big lizard:) They are quite skittish right now but we hope to socialize them so that we can take them out of the tank and interact with them. In due time as all things go, right??!! For now take I guess take a break from the art world and check out Edward..............and..................................................................................................... Marcus!!!!!!!!!!!!

Charlie Girl you say?????

Yes "My Charlie Girl" I do say and my next person that I would like to introduce you to.

Bec Winnel, owner of "My Charlie Girl" is an illustrator/Design student from down under................well Australia that is!
Being once an illustrator major myself her sketches and drawings drew my attention.

Bec has an assortment of girls she has illustrated that catch your eye and exude their very own personality straight off the paper or canvas they are done on.

Well read on and see what inspires her and why she calls her design line "My Charlie Girl".......


Bio

Name: Bec Winnel aka "MyCharlieGirl"

Age: 29, almost 30!

Location: Melbourne, Australia

Favorite indulgence at the moment: hmmmmm.....drawing, chocolate and my hairstraightner!

One song that you can listen to over and over again and never get tired of: A song I adore....let me check my itunes.....

One of your favorite artists who has inspired you: Ali J, aka Aussie Patches.

Name one thing you could not live without: My little white fluffy doggy Charlie

At what age did you start to become interested in art?: I remember being interested in art as far back as I can remember!!!!!

Interview
(Milo Girl)
1) In your new sketch titled "Milo Girl" she is carrying an empty can of Milo filled with plants, for us Americans(or people who don't know what it is) what is Milo?
At least I know I'm curious!
hehehe.....Milo is an icon Aussie food, much like the way Vegimite is iconic. Its a yummy drink that tastes a bit like hot chocolate that you have with milk, hot or cold. Its also supposed to be "healthy" giving you energy, vitamins ,and minerals....like a sports drink.

2) OK now that we got the Milo mystery out of the way,what medium was "Milo Girl
" created in?(ink, pencil, paper) First I sketched her out with pencil then completed the illustration with a fine pen liner and added the bit of detail with good old coloured pencils.
3) I notice that you mingle in the digital aspect of art as well as the traditional sketches and paintings, which would be your favorite way of producing art and why? It always changes...at the moment I'm having lots of fun with traditional mediums, but I am feeling the urge to get back to some digital work. Ive seemed to find I cant limit myself to one medium....I get bored to easily!

("Fauvist me" right)

("Flaunt" above)



("Lost N Found")


4) Where did the name "My Charlie Girl" come from?? hehehe...my puppy, her name is Charlie and everyone thinks she is a boy, having such a traditional boys name. I am always saying back to people,"no she is my charlie GIRL". When I had to think of a name for her, that was the first one that popped into my mind.

(Charlie herself!)

5) Which piece/sketch has been your favorite and why??? I would say that I really like "Indie".....I like the soft lines and soft colors but I also like how she is part abstract and has a bit of an edge. I also really like "Audrey", every time I look at her I smile :) Audrey Hepburn is just so beautiful!!! ("Indie" left) ("Audrey" right)

6) It appears you are studying Graphic Art, where do you see your self down the line with a Graphic Arts degree?? Would your like to work for a company or independently?? Well, to start off I would like to work for a company in a creative field like an art magazine or music company. I would eventually like to work freelance and work form home in a beautiful house in the country not to far from the city. It would have a beautiful studio with windows looking out into the mountains....ahhhhhhh..sounds so nice.

7) When coming up with these different images of girls and other scenes do you use live models, resources or does it all just flow out of your imagination? Some pop into my head and then I just sketch them out. Some come from images I have come across in magazines and on the Internet that I really like as well as inspire me. Some of them are even my own photography:)

("Le Purrrr")

8) And finally................what is your biggest motivation? What makes you wake up and want to create? How do you come up with all of your ideas? My motivation are the ideas in my head that I need to get out.....and knowing that once they have, there will be a finished result...an artwork to look at. And what also inspires me is art itself! Seeing all the beautiful art everyday on the Internet, in galleries , and in books inspires me to create :)

("Doodle Girl")

Well there you have, yet another talented indvidual worthy of looksy:) Maybe her art will inspire your art!!!

All of the above artwork AS WELL as many more can be viewed and purchased at the following sites...................................... Myspace page, ETSY page , as well as her Made it page.

Looking for a a new creative forum to join???

Diyscene.com is a site created by an engaged couple by the names of Christian Flickinger and Katie Soltysiak.

Katie being the main Diy-er in the relationship is also known as Red Thread Diy. She creates clothing and bags from scratch and also does t-shirt reconstructions. Katie began selling her creations on Ebay but now also set up shop on Etsy as well.

Christian is a Systems Developer where he works, and a Web Developer in his free time. He has told me that he has great support for Katie's endeavors to the point where he purchased her a surger this past Christmas so she can keep on doing the things she loves to do.

With both of their talented minds they have come up with Diyscene.com a forum for those of us who are into creating. It is a place to share and discuss all things DIY.

Once signed up feel free to join in any of the numerous conversations going on, or ask questions on a certain subject. Its the perfect community for anyone who loves to make things as well as meet people who do the same.

Also be sure to swing by the following:

Diyscene's very own myspace page

Katie's Red Threads myspace page

Christian's personal website.................... Nexdot

as well as his blog...........Nexdot Blogspot

Check um...........as im told there is alot in store for Diyscene.com!!!

Crankyyellow.com..................cranky who?

Cranky Yellow in their exact words is an............" Independent Publisher of art and handmade goodness" Plain and simple BUT what a wonderful idea.
When one enters their website they are filled with creative goodness.
There are ways to become involved in what they are promoting...................which would be the people against the mass produced items from big corporations and the lack of good representation of the little people(the indie artists and crafters).

In other words Cranky yellow is a pro artist/crafters organization and they are always on the lookout for new people to get involved.

Spend some time browsing their site and see how you as an artist can submit your work, join the discussions in their forums, and even participate by inquiring about getting flyers sent to you to put up to spread the good word.

This site is chock full of info, interviews, links, OH so much I cant just list it ...........you must see it for yourself!

I highly recommend you bookmark this site and support the folks at Cranky Yellow and even get your butts involved!!! How you like them apples??

Visit them here: crankyyellow.com

or here: Their myspace page

and even here: You Tube

And there are plenty of more places to visit when you click on the "interactive" tab up on top on their main web site!!!

Artsy Mamas, yes thats what I said!

Organizations/groups/forums/websites all play a key factor in our world as artists. These are the places we connect and learn from each other. As for myself these are the places I network with and gather all the inspiration I need to keep my art going as well as this blog, because without them I wouldn't be able to find half of the great people I do.

Artsy Mamas caught my eye with their colorful myspace page. I read on and thought "what a wonderful idea for all those creative mothers out there" The Artsy Mamas is a different way to gather with other moms and spend time in a productive yet fun way, and most of the time you don't even have to worry about getting a babysitter.

Well enough of my rambling, just read on and learn why Artsy Mamas got my attention(and I'm not even a mom, well not anytime soon)

Bio

Age: 29

Where you call home: Murfreesboro, TN

One of your favorite Artsy Mama memories: The feeling that I had when I found out that we were going to team up with the city schools to make the Outreach part of my dream come true!!

What/who do you get the most inspiration from: I am inspired by my mom's spirit which is watching over me every step of the way and saying "Go get em, Artsy Mama".

A main source of motivation: I keep going whenever it gets really rough because I'm constantly reminded by all of the good that I am doing and how my work is making so many people so very happy!

And now its that time again to get down to the nitty gritty.............

1. The name is apparent but when was Artsy Mamas started and how was the idea conceived? What is the story behind it all?? I had the idea after losing my mom and deciding to change my life to be the way she would have wanted her to be. I'd promised myself that in 2007, I'd enter the stage again. My kids were finally weaned and I was ready to get back into the limelight. I was all set to attend an audition and, wham, my husband is sick and cannot watch the kids. That's when I decided that being an artist and a mom was hard and that I wanted to start a movement to make it not so difficult. Then I began thinking about how I wanted to learn so much and never had the money or time to look into classes. After a lot of prayer and mediation, Artsy Mamas was conceived. A lot of changes were made over the first few months but now, it's been born and I'm the proud mom of a brand new organization and, quite frankly, social movement!

2. Describe the main purpose it has for all the moms involved and all those who want to become involved?
Our mission statement says:
"Artsy Mamas provides moms with encouragement, education, and empowerment through the arts, improving their self-esteem and quality of life and positively affecting their children and everyone around them. When you empower a mother, you benefit her child."

3. Is Artsy Mamas a nation wide organization or only based in Tennessee? Do you plan on it expanding and reaching out to other mothers across the country possibly world wide?? So far we are only in Tennessee. But to answer that last question I give you a huge, resounding , YES MA'AM!!

4. I see that the organization is chock full of events for one to attend and participate in............can you describe a few for us so we can get an idea of what goes on with all you Artsy moms? At a play date we might bring the kids together to make Father's day cards or to paint, while us moms catch up on the latest and snack. At a mom-led workshop, we might learn to tie dye or make hemp jewelry while snacking and yacking, of course. And I'm not sure what's going to happen at our outreach program but I'm sure it will be amazing!!

5. One thing that caught my eye was your hopes in reaching out to inner city moms and their children. Has this been accomplished or is it still in the works? What are your plans for this whole side of Artsy Mamas? We start that program this week on Sept. 6! We will begin our outreach program by bringing creative writing, drawing, painting, etc. to the moms of the Murfreesboro Inner City by teaming up with our city schools system. There are still no plans in the works for working with children but the moms project is ready to begin and I'm SO excited!!!

6. So being that you guys are Artsy Mamas you must make some great stuff here and there. Do any of the ladies sell their stuff and if so how does one go about viewing and possibly purchasing from them? We have a links section on our website where some of our mom's businesses are listed. Currently we are trying to get enough moms together to fill a table at a local craft fair. We do not have an etsy account or anything yet but that is something we'd certainly consider in the future.

7. Are your children and those of your members ever involved in your organization? What special activities do you plan for them and do they all interact well with each other all and all? We bring our children to play dates where we have some artistic or crafty activity planned like bubble painting or sidewalk chalk! And, yes, they all get along! They are best friends just like us girls!!

8. If one shall decide to join TheArtsyMamas.com website, what are some of the features offered to them through your site??? We don't encourage people to sign up for our website... that is there only for people who might like to submit a news article for our homepage. What we do encourage, however, is for moms and members of our community to register for our forum. A link can be found on our homepage by clicking the word forum which is listed over to the left. On the forum, you will be given the opportunity to get to know our members, you will find help and support for being a mom, and you will be up to date on all of our latest activities.

And there it is....................The Artsy Mamas! An organization I feel has a great future!! Good luck ladies and also thanks for making a difference!

Summer is over.....

Well sort of. At least Labor Day has fallen upon us and we are on the 4th day of September and im back to days full of silence:) and freedom, well at least untill 4pm!
Feeling the need to be loading up on school supplies even though I am no longer a student I of course got myself some Scooby-Doo pens, a really cute monster pen(which the boyfriend purchased for me) a Thesaurus(which I started using alot), some post its, new dry erase wipe away markers(for the house chore chart) and lets not forget my mini collection of Playdoh, yes I am a huge kid at heart the smell alone brings me back to those carefree days.

In my next upcoming features I so far have been able to rope in an Illustrator and in the next upcoming week a very brilliant crocheting genius!!!

So keep your eyes open for for new entries and as always if you have something you would like to contribute to "Colored Sprinkles" please feel free to contact me on my myspace page or email me at coloredsprinklegirl@hotmail.com. Ive always got my mind and eyes open for new and fantastic stuff!

Ok off to eat some breakfast!

ReFabulous artist Connie has a knack of making old new and fabulous!

My next artiste is as sweet as her wonderful creations! She takes the old and turns it new again, transforming anything from books to bottle caps into funky and brand new usable art. I highly recommend you checking her out and maybe think of exchanging in that old boring wallet for a vintage one of kind designed by Connie. So read on and find out all about ReFabulous and why her stuff is just as fabulous as she is!!!!


I introduce to you........Connie

Bio

Name: Connie Crawley

Age: 34

Home Sweet Home: Melissa, Texas

Your most favorite tool of trade that you cannot live without: my 12 year-old sewing machine

Name one movie you can maybe almost say all the lines to because its one you adore: It’s a Wonderful Life – we watch it EVERY Christmas Eve. Cheesy, I know.

Number one start your day up routine or item: Coffee. And more coffee.

Something you have had your eye on, something on your wish list: A new sewing machine.

Questions

1. What started you on the whole concept of reusing old items to create decorative YET useful art? Two things started me on this path. First, we grew up fairly poor, so we always repaired or reused our things when they broke or wore out. I learned to look at the potential an item may have for another use. Second, I get sad when I see people throw away perfectly good things, just because they may be a little “used” or rusty. I think we should try to be “good stewards” of what we have, and use what we can, instead of consume, consume, consume. I see it as a puzzle, or a challenge, to find a way to fix up the old items, or to look at them in a new light.

(Bowls made out of old records)

2. Any new things getting brainstormed at the moment that we should look out for? Possibly stuff for the up coming holidays? I’m currently designing totes and little pouches, using re purposed fabrics, with lots of one-of-a-kind embroidery. I would also like to try my hand at brooches and cuffs made of those same materials. Of course, more paperback wallets are on the horizon.

3. Garage sales, flea markets, thrift stores................how do you go about picking out what’s good, what can be transformed? Have you ever had one great one of a kind find? When I first started this, I looked for what I thought people would want to buy. Those items are still sitting in my shop, gathering dust. I also looked for things that caught my eye -- books I loved, books with cool artwork. Those are the items that have sold. So basically, I look for good composition, cool colors, unique artwork, and well-loved classic novels to transform into a wallet. As for that great one-of-a-kind find, I found a retro set of Betty Crocker recipe cards in mint condition for 50 cents at a garage sale. I immediately envisioned note cards.

4. When it comes to designs, where do they come from? Are you constantly thinking about that page from a certain book can be turned into or what thread color would work best when stitching up an item? I am always thinking of new designs, colors, patterns. For my wallets, I am usually inspired by the books themselves. As for my other items, I get inspired by just about anything… the weather, the seasons, my children.

(Note cards from an old bowling guide)

5. So I noticed you have daughters, has your crafting rubbed off on them? Do they ever think up new designs for mom? My children are very creative. They love to draw, paint, make and trade ATCs. I’m constantly stepping on crayons and peeling stickers off the carpet. One of my daughters is very interested in sewing and design. I love that they are so creative! They do offer to help with my pincushion designs, and have come up with some very original ideas that I’ve adapted and used.

6. In all how has your ETSY experience been? This is a good question for those thinking about setting up shop. Any tips? Hints? I have loved the entire Etsy experience. I try to learn from the good sales periods, and the dry spells. My advice is to listen to the veteran sellers’ advice in the forums, and take from it what applies to you. List something every day if you can. Take clear pictures. Write a good description. Get involved in a street team. Promote yourself. But most of all, do what you love, and don’t be afraid to change your ideas and experiment along the way. I believe that is what will make you stand out among the thousands of other sellers on Etsy.

7. Out of all the items you have thought up and made, what has been your favorite to make and why? Also perhaps your biggest seller? I really love making the pincushions. They are my tiny works of art, and instant gratification. However, my biggest sellers are, by far, the wallets.

(A few of her wallet designs, for more check out her ETSY site ReFabulous)

Last but not least and one that many may ponder.............well I know I do..........

8. The bottle cap pincushions happen to be one of my favorite items (so adorable)

.............do you have to drink alot of soda to get those little suckers, or do you ask around to friends and family? My husband is a HUGE Dr. Pepper addict, so there is never a shortage of bottle caps in our home. However, I did mention to my family that I needed bottle caps, so now I’m swimming in them. Maybe I need to come up with yet another use for them!

(Bottle Cap pin Cushions)

Well there you have it, yet another imaginative, inspiring mind. You can find Connie at her myspace page and you can browse and buy her items on her ETSY site ReFabulous.

Also just to let you guys know a Labor Day sale will be going on with 20% off everything in the store, including shipping. A purchase of $20 or more after discount gets you a secret freebie, too! (that's pretty much in her own words) SOOOO go check it out!!

And that concludes yet another Colored Sprinkles insight!!

Thank you Connie!