Patterned Lego Guy and Big Book Mark

This was a fun end-of-the-year project from Art Club last year. I needed a project that would be easy for a sub to do because I wasn't sure I'd be there for the last couple of weeks. My daughter was having twins, so we didn't know when I might have to head out to help with the new babies.

As it turned out, I was able to finish up my classes before the babies arrived. (Hard to believe they are almost 5 months old already!)

Artists chose either the lego figure or a narrow strip (3x11 inches) for their design. I supplied a sample sheet of about 12 pattern ideas, but they were encouraged to come up with their own. I had the artists draw light curved or straight lines to divide the space and then fill the spaces with patterns.

We used black fine-tipped pens and added some colored pencil. The smaller paper kept the careful pattern work from being too overwhelming to young artists. But many chose the lego figure knowing it would take more time to complete.

Doodling and pattern making are a great way to explore line, and Art Club artists found it relaxing too. So did I! (I found the Lego guy here.)

Paper Cut Art- A Fabulous Find!

I found this the other day at my local thrift store. (Value Village). I think it's a great addition to my Halloween decor.

The paper cut artwork is signed- I think it's "Blecko". Or "Bleeke". But I couldn't find anything about him or her when I searched those names. 

Adding a spider and some web, along with some Halloween lighting, gave it just the right amount of creepiness. 

And there was nothing creepy about the price- original, signed art for under $5. I'd love to know something about the piece. It's one of the things I like about thrift store shopping- a little history, a little mystery. Who made it? Who owned it? And why did they decide to give it away? 

My interview with Midlife Guru

Just in case you missed it, I was interviewed over on Midlife Guru. Check it out!

A few of my Halloween friends found the interview fascinating. (Or maybe a bit scary?)

See what you think. 

Make it wonderful day!

Periwinkle Dries to Teal

Have a Wonderful Day!

Max Grover: Hunter, Gatherer, Painter

This summer, we took a day trip to Bainbridge Island, and it included a visit to the 

Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. 

 

                                                   Stellar Robot (acrylic and collage, 2014)

 We didn't know anything about the small museum, but we're glad we visited! Admission is free, and the art was great. Of the several shows on display, Max Grover: Hunter, Gatherer, Painter, was a favorite.

                                                  Cinema (acrylic and collage, 2014)

 The show was built around the artist's wonderful collections that inspired his work. Somehow, I didn't photograph any of the collections! But they were as varied as tiny robot toys, wedding cake toppers, and other really cool stuff. His collage and acrylic work inspired me. Maybe some artwork based on my own collections in the future?

                                                       Equal (acrylic and collage, 2014)

                                                 Royal Winter (acrylic and collage, 2014)

And a few more….

I came home and ordered a book he wrote and illustrated:  The Accidental Zucchini, An Unexpected Alphabet. It includes things like a "Vegetable Volcano" and Octopus Overalls', and an "Ice cream Island".  Whimsy that made me smile. Can't wait to share the book with my grands.



Make it a Wonderful Day!