Got a Minute?

Time and time again we stop to analyze where our time goes.  Do we waste it away?  Do we need more of it?  How can we get more by making changes and using it differently?  If you have a minute, or two... read on.

image;www.jesterarts.com

There are many "two-minute" tasks that we can do in a day and have the satisfaction of knowing that we were productive in a short amount of time in a day.  You may not think of two minutes as large chunks of time  to do much of anything.  But, learning to identify tasks that do not require too much effort can lead to more time management habits.

By doing small tasks in a day, you do feel productive.  You utilize your time that can easily be wasted otherwise, and the purpose is to handle short actions immediately.  Freeing time can add more time into your day to do what you love.  And I know that I need more time in my day to do what I love- create art.  I have a list of a few suggestions that can be done within a two minute time frame.  Maybe it will help you look at your day and check off simple tasks within it.

Try these time tested tasks:                                                                                         

• Clean the kitchen sink
• Write a few thank you notes
• Change bed sheets
• Make a Keurig brand beverage
• Reply to an e-mail
• Make a journal entry
• Make a brief phone or text message
• Load the dishwasher
• Sweep the floor
• Water the plants
• Feed the animals
• Balance a page in a checkbook
• Clean out your purse or wallet
• Make a short errand list
• Run computer backup program
• Check air pressure in your car tires
• Order flowers for a friend
• Say a prayer
• Think of the topic of your next blog!

The whole point is to discriminate between actions that are too short to put on a list and ones that are too long to start without becoming side tracked from higher priorities.

My Daughter Made a Bad Thing Great

My high school daughter has decided very willingly to make a bad thing great.  She has suffered a knee injury in a sport.  Being very active in several competitive sports like, year-round soccer, cross-country, basketball and even football (she was the kicker this year),  you can see that it is hard to keep someone with this level of drive down.

As it turns out, surgery is needed and that is the "bad" thing.  There are aspects of good to this whole situation however.  Good... that she can be fixed.  Good... that she has a great surgeon.  Good- that she is in good spirits.  What makes this whole ordeal "great" is her attitude.  As soon as she received her brace which she will be wearing for a long while, she immediately asked if it was hers to keep.

The reason for her question was because she had to wear the same type of brace once before and it is honestly intrusive  and ugly.   She looked like a robot wearing it since it practically covered the entire length of her leg.  So, when she heard that she was going to be allowed to keep this brace, her face lit up.  Being her mom, I instantly knew why.

Daughter's artistic additions to her intrusive knee brace.  Bring On The Bling.

My daughter could not wait to get home.  What was the first thing she did?  She reached for her collection of cool stickers.  She was planning on "blinging that baby out"!  Who wouldn't want to show a little more creativity in transforming her "bad" looking brace into something with more personality?  You have certainly seen neon colored casts by now and there are also designs pre-printed on casts as well.  Recall the first thing that people do when they see their friend in an arm cast.  They ask if they can sign it.  Doesn't that make the whole ugly wrapping somehow more appealing and maybe even tolerable?  Use your creativity to make your particular situation more fun and it may just prove to adjust your attitude at the same time.

It's Not Easy Being White

Call it white, grey, or silver, however you described it, if you are getting older- you are noticing it in your hair.  It's not easy seeing yourself become white-haired, grey-headed, or silver-sprayed.  So, what is a person to do if it bothers them?  That's right...add some color to your life!  What is life like at the end of a rainbow?  These models may know.

I won't name the name of my source or disclose who they are speaking about but, a friend of mine once told me about someone close to her that did not like to see the appearance of her grey hairs popping up from time to time.  So, her solution was to use a black sharpie marker to touch up her stray hairs and bring them back to the correct natural color of black!    Now, you can't beat that for creative thinking can you?  It had never crossed my mind to do such a thing.  I've got those type markers all over the place and I  include many shades of swharpie brand markers to include metallic.  Well,  all I can say is that the markers are deemed "permanent" so, maybe, just maybe that suggestion is a great alternative to denying grey hair appearances.  It is so very economical at the same time!  I wonder if my purple and red markers could create the look in the photo image here?

Although I have never gone to that extreme, I was told by someone that "highlights" or "low lights" are cheating as it is actually considered coloring your hair.  And  up until recently, I was proudly able to state that I have not colored my hair to cover up grey yet.  It got me thinking  that covering up silver strands can be done in more creative ways.  Obviously, I was not alone in this thought, as there are many who have investigated the more creative side of hair colorants.  A few quick Internet searches can prove that.

If you want to bring a little more color into your look, get colorful rainbow hairstyles, highlights in lots of neon colors.  Although I have not seen people walking around with this display in my neighborhood, it does not mean that these colors are not out there.  It is eye-catching, unique, and creative.  What more can we ask?  Would you consider adding rainbow colors to cover up your white, brown, black, blond or auburn locks?  It is an option!  Is it easier than being "white"?  It certainly is more creative.

For these photo examples I turned to the site:  becomegeorgous.com.  These images seemed to illustrate exactly what I am trying to convey- that you have the option to color your world and you can look like a beautiful and rare rainbow if you want to instead of bland old white. 

Are you inspired to reach for the rainbow?

Lejeune resident builds business on ‘art that sets you apart' | apart, studio, jewelry - Jacksonville Daily News

Lejeune resident builds business on ‘art that sets you apart' apart, studio, jewelry - Jacksonville Daily News

Split Decision- Color Theory Lesson



Copyright: Club Creative Studio- Hand-rolled clay beads.

I love bright, dominate and bold color combinations.  It is often reflected in the hues of the beads I create. The use of split-complementary color combinations in my color palette offers a bit of "pop" to the overall look of my beads. 



image:hover.k12.al.com

If you are trying to decide on the color combinations to use in your creations using fabric, paint, thread, clay or the like, then consider a mix of an analogous and a complimentary color palette. I don't usually stop to plan out what colors I will mix my clays into.  But, sometimes when I refer to the color wheel. I find inspiration in a split complementary combination.

To create a split-complementary color palate, you look to the color wheel and start with one color and then add the colors that are equally spaced on each side of its complement.  For example, if you start with violet, the complement color is yellow (color directly across from the first color)...you will be adding the colors of yellow-green and yellow orange as additional colors to your working palette.

Matching a cool dominate with warm complements, using bright colors, giving unequal weight to color tones will emphasize the main color and provide contrast in your color choices.  Experiment with it, and see where it leads you.







My Short List For An Expo



image: nhpoai.wordpress.com

 May I suggest items to keep on your "short list" the next time you are preparing for an Art Fair, Art Sale, Art Exhibit or Art Display Trade Show.  My suggestions are based on a few basic observations, some obvious some perhaps overlooked.  We can all forget one on the list no matter how seasoned we are in participating in any of the above forms of public art display.  I'd like to share what I try to do to make the experience more pleasurable for myself and for my customers during an expo.

1.  Arrive in enough time to set up your area.  This is not the time to be rushed in putting your items on display.  You want your best foot forward at all times and you want to leave yourself extra time for the unexpected delays that you might encounter.   You may opt to arrive in comfortable work clothes and then change after you are set up.

2.  Dress professionally.  Many visitors to your booth do not know you and are getting an important "first impression".  Make sure that you pass along the message that you want, and dressing appropriately is a good place to start.

3.  Be sure to use table coverings that are draped down to floor length and are well ironed.  Some events ask this as a requirement.  It keeps tables neat, uniform and will also help hide your supplies under the table.  Tuck the ends at the table legs so that they are not easily tripped on from excess material flow.

4. You should have a name tag on identifying you or your company.  Also,  make sure your name tag is visible.  It associates you with your space.  If you happen to step away from your booth area, the customer will not mistake another person  standing in your place as the artist , owner or wrong employee, if you have your name tag on.

5.  For safety sake, if you are using electrical outlets, make sure you comply with the recommended standards and tape down the cord as to not trip or walk over it repeatedly.  Also, keep walkways clear and display heights at safe levels.

6.  Hide your "junk".  If you have extra space under your table that you are storing your supplies or extra storage boxes, make sure that everything is tucked away and not showing as part of your display.  You do not want to confuse or convey the wrong items that you are selling.  You want to stay organized in your small space and be able to find what you need.

7.  In your display- look at it from the customer's view.  Is it interesting to look at?  Do you have various levels that make the  display space appealing?  Do you have a variety of items to look at to hold their interest?  Are prices marked clearly?  Do you have appropriate signage that explains details that you wish not to repeat often throughout the day?

8. Have enough change, tell the customer up front if tax is included in the price, decide in advance your accepted payment options.  Never count your monies in front of customers or other vendors. ( really, I have seen this too). Keep your funds in a locked money box for safe keeping.  Decide in advance how you will include your receipt if you are providing one.

9.  Include significant items at your booth that are not for sale but, may be of use for a shopper.  For example, a mirror, ruler, calculator, pencil, pen, paper, tape, extra chair, clock, Kleenex, hand sanitizer.  For yourself:  include water, snack, and mints.

10.  Be prepared to have business cards on hand.  Another form of information such as a postcard, brochure, coupon or promotional item is also helpful to engage your customer and have them take away your contact information if they are not leaving with your actual product at that time.  A mailing list or raffle ticket info can be important for both you and customer.

11.  Be the expert you are.  Inform curious shoppers of your craft, and the process involved.  This is your chance to be the expert and spread word about your passion.  Education is the key to letting others know first hand exactly what you want them to remember about you.  Remember, there are many other booths at  the same event and you want to stand out.

12.  Talk to your booth neighbors.  Encourage them and learn from them as well.  Making a connection of support will bring about a friendship that may last way beyond the day or two of being a side-by-side booth buddy. Always wear a smile too.

Good luck in your next exhibit.  I hope these tips will allow you to become more comfortable with your next display experience.

Please Pass the Passion

Take time to let others know that you have a creative passion.  http://www.clubcreativestudio.wordpress.com/
SERVE IT UP...

image: blazingthyme.com

I Steal It For a Reason

I admit it.  I steal things...from my own kitchen that is and from around my own house. Sometimes I return them, really.


In a world filled with gadgets and goodies, the kitchen tools I have appear to be more useful in my art studio than in my kitchen (where I do not like to spend much time).  I can find a double use for many items that are found objects right inside my own home. They often end up staying in the studio for my use instead of what they are really intended for in purpose.

If you are an artist or creative person you already have a natural tendency to look around and imagine items to be of multiple uses.  Your imagination never seems to stop and your ideas become helpful in producing your art.  These adaptions can make your work more appealing, produced more effectively, or even created more uniquely. 

A creative person naturally has many supplies on hand based on their art form or certain pet projects.  When specific supplies are not readily available, too expensive or just not worth it to own...imagination kicks into high gear.  Creative people are inventive people.   They often ask themselves how they can get a specific job done in a more interesting way.  They wonder, how they can put a spin on a project at hand and make it unique.

One way that I obtain unique tools, and resources needed for a project is by raiding garage, kitchen and other more unexpected places around my own home.  There are treasures I have found and tools yet to be discovered that could have a double use in the art studio.  I have discovered useful supplies in storage containers, children's toy boxes, junk drawers, husband's tool box, or in plain sight.



Food processor- for chopping up dry clay!



The large knitting needle for example is a tool that I stole from myself (another project) but, it serves me better as a clay smoother .  I just need a different one now as the tool I need to knit with yarn.  I use bamboo skewer sticks from kebabs for piercing holes into my raw beads for a stringing hole.  The recent gem acquired from the kitchen was the food processor.  I have now confiscated that for use in conditioning dry clay to bring it back to pliable standards.  The cutting board was long gone once I discovered I used it more in the studio than the kitchen anyway.  The pasta machine- although it is a staple item for the clay artist to use on a daily basis, was first taken from a kitchen and now we all use it to remove air bubbles from clay. These type adaptions are making my life easier.



At the moment, I am in the process of gathering items of use with great textures.  Because I will be starting a new item line and will be exploring and incorporating many different types of textures in my upcoming projects, the hunt around my home is becoming more intense.  So far, I have gathered many small treasures.  I think I will start a "texture box" for all of my little found treasures.  Are you ready to look around for double duty objects that can help your creativity grow?



Dreaming, Discovering, Doing

Three words to foster creativity: dream, discover, do.

Where might one start if you need creative ideas?  Start with your visions.  Your daydreams and night dreams are extensions of your inner thoughts.  Learn to appreciate and analyze them to work for you.  Take advantage of cues that may help you in developing your imagination.  How can they become more vivid?  Can you make those great dreams come true?

"To dream anything that you want to dream. That's the beauty of the human mind. To do anything that you want to do. That is the strength of the human will. To trust yourself to test your limits. That is the courage to succeed." -Bernard Edmonds

Accidental discoveries should be valued because they are learning tools.  They are useful if they worked for you and they are useful if they don't work for you.  Whatever you happen to discover, the learning opportunity you can take away from each insight helps you in taking steps in developments.  When you discover a better way of doing a task for example, you know that you have improved upon and bettered the situation.  You have made strides in the level of development and skill at hand.  Your efforts will take shape into productivity or product.

“When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all your thoughts break their bonds: Your mind transcends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction, and you find yourself in a new, great, and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive, and your discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be.” -Patanjali

Do it.  Are you ready to take steps forward, complete a task and accomplish goals?  Are you doing what you want and need to do?  After you dream, discover what you can do and then do it...foster your creativity!

"Everybody keeps telling me how surprised they are with what I've done. But I'm telling you honestly that it doesn't surprise me. I knew I could do it.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson  (American Poet, Lecturer and Essayist)

Creative Cooks- Don't Reach Their Boiling Points

Enjoy this blog that will inform you of the basic tools you may need in your kitchen to be a more creative cook.
http://www.clubcreativestudio.wordpress.com/


Image: pub.international,LLC



Take It From Trump

New Blog Post:  This suggests taking to heart a few quotes from Donald Trump.  What can you take away from him?
http://www.clubcreativestudio.wordpress.com/


Image: NBC news: Virginia Snippes



Cheap Creativity-Getcha Some

This blog post suggests a few inexpensive ideas to have some creative fun with little ones.  Please visit:
http://www.clubcreativestudio.wordpress.com/

photo: fabandfru.com

Color Me Happy

Visit: Club Creative Studio's Blog post at http://www.clubcreativestudio.wordpress.com/

Learn a bit about the color wheel and color theory,
and how I mix my colors into my clay.

Out of the Box- Out of this World

Awesome!  What word do you think of when you discover someone who has produced an "out of the box" idea or  product?  Are you amazed at what prompts people to be so creative?  Those out-of-the-box creative thoughts and actions can be so inspirational. 

Several months ago I came across a few examples of inventive art.  Artists were using unconventional mediums and both had unique items because of that fact.  The artist Tom Waites has a series of art that is produced using the innard tape of a cassette tape.  It is a great visual produced from a recycled item.  A creative use of what is not normally considered to be an art supply.  Judge for yourself the level of creative thinking his art represents in the following images.

Artist, Erika Iris Simmons created:  Albert Einstein – Space-time cowboy. Recycled 8mm film on canvas with reel and clock parts. 2009

Bob Marley in progress – Sometimes the process

 is as beautiful as the outcome.

Bob Marley – Great start to the year! The cassette case is painted very lightly, so you can still read

“Bob Marley and the Wailers : Birth of a Legend” on the case. Cassette tape on canvas, 2010

The Dude Abides. – VHS tape on canvas, 2009

    

Fernando Valenzuela made entirely out of the innards of a single baseball actually used in a game. http://ubersuper.com/fernando/

You can't help but be inspired to want to do something creative with an item that has little or no use to you now right?  What item might you think of using to recycle into art of another fashion?  Get the creative spark from these examples and start your creation today!

                                                                                                                                                                            

Where's Your "A" List?



image:annettebeasley.girlshoppe.com



We all want to be more organized so we can spend more time in our creative adventures.  There are ways that you can create a list of tasks that give you more focus, and leads to more time to be productive .  Take time out to know if you have a real plan.  Do you have an "A" list?  An "A" list is your first list that has your time management issues addressed and prioritized.  It is different from a "to do" list because a "to do" list simply can not include all of the aspects of your life.  If you have a  complex life, then a simple to-do list is not an effective system.  You need something with more sophistication, or maybe a combination of different types of lists.

What makes a to-do list so challenging?  Do you have a list of to-dos that include a bunch of other stuff such as: items you don't need to do anything with right now but may have to step aside and wait on someone else, items that you want to do later but don't really have time for right now, and also larger projects that are not a simple one-step task, but instead a project that has lots of to-dos as part of it.



You'll need to separate these lists because your mind finds it difficult to focus.  As you look at your to-do list, and are already overwhelmed, or stressed  it may be because many items on the list are really things that should not be on that to-do list in the first place. Many different types of lists are helpful to have.  Your "A" list should be the list that contains the daily priority items and should have a small number of items on the list (usually less than eight).  

Your second list should be the general to-do list. If you are really busy and have lots of items on your list you might want to separate this into important to-dos and less important items.  Another type of list could be the "hold" list. On that list are items you don't want to do right now but might want to turn into action in the near future. You may even want to separate this list into “on hold for a short time” and “someday maybe”, with the distinction being that the first list is stuff that you don't want to do now but will want to do in the next few weeks and the someday maybe list is stuff that you might want to do some time, but have no intention of doing in the near term future.

Lists are important because they each have a purpose and are a landing pad for your ideas that enable to you to be more realistic about the fact that you can't accomplish everything in your life right now. You can however, accomplish items one at a time, at the right time, and in due time.


Just when you think that I am finished reporting on the types of lists you can have...I add a few more to this blog.  Another type of list is a list of items that you are waiting to follow up on. This is where you are waiting on someone to take action or get back to you. And the list that is most popular at the beginning of a new year in particular is a list of goals. This is the medium and longer term stuff that you want to achieve in your life. Goal setting is a very powerful process and if you don't have written goals this is something that you definitely should do and review often as well.

Projects and next actions are also types of lists that you can make that take into account all items that will take multiple action steps to achieve. Working on projects always involves steps to work through and knowing how you will work out what the next action step is, pushes your actions into forward motion.  With any type of list you are working with at any given time, there may or may not be an imposed time frame for the completion of the listed items.  That is fine.  Even though joy comes from making a check-in-the-box, it is also just as satisfying to have a list in the first place made to visualize your goals and watch your progressions unfold.

Creative Waste of Time

Image created at designhergals.com

Don't feel guilty if sometimes you feel like you may be "wasting time" while you create.   Enjoy both types of creative opportunities:  productive creative time and experimental creative time.  Learn to enjoy your unplanned time creating just as much as the times that you sit down with specific creative goals.

I "lost" track of time by messing around on the computer.
I invite you do happily do the same by visiting this site:  

DesignHerGals http://www.designhergals.com/. This site was brought to my attention from a friend who had used this site to change her Facebook profile picture. This site is for both males and females so don't let the name of the website sway you in direction of not checking them if you are a dude.  Creating an image in this site is easy, fun, and free.  There is a cost, however  in using that image for other great items like stationery for example.  Those type services are also easily ordered online at the site.  I experienced alot of creative unplanned fun by use of the options provided in the site to create a cartoon image based loosely on my physical appearance as well as my interests.  Try it out for fun but be warned that you may loose track of time while creating!

Both planned and unplanned creative times can be productive in their own way.  Any time you have the chance to be creative, you have the fuel to flame your fire to be expressive.  Enjoy your opportunities and the creative "wasted time".

Seek, Foster, Encourage,Embrace Art

Creativity is a great motivator because it makes people interested in what they are doing. Creativity gives hope that there can be a worthwhile idea. Creativity gives the possibility of some sort of achievement to everyone. Creativity makes life more fun and more interesting.- Edward de Bono

Creativity is such a great subject to blog about because there are so many aspects one can focus on.   In this post, the above quote is a great place to springboard from.  You can read this with yourself in mind or with someone else in mind.  If you plan to implement some ideas for yourself,  it should easily be easy to adapt the suggestions to fit an individual.  I do however have in mind the particulars of development of a child's creative mind.

If you have children, or are associated with them- you should consider having the goal of helping a child become more creative.  Don't rely or wait for them to have a classroom art teacher in the traditional sense of the word.  Although there are many great art teachers, YOU as a primary force in their life must be the first line of education.  It begins at home.  YOU have the power to be the generating "spark" to creative thoughts or suggestion of a child in their artistic encounters.  If you need guidance or reason on how to do this please, read on...

Providing hands-on activities and opportunities for making creative decisions is a great start to fostering a creative mind.  Art, (particulary visual arts) IS a great motivator.   To be able to seek and discover creativity IS great for everyone.  To be "hands-on" you have got to keep your hands moving.  To be moving...you have to be willing to experiment.

Start by always having supplies on hand for your creative experience.  Having access to supplies is fuel for the fire. A single pencil and paper are always standard and inexpensive stand-by items. If you have limited funds, be creative in obtaining those supplies.  Find free stuff: discarded magazines, wall paper sample books, empty cartons/containers, scrap materials like yarn/fabric/papers, etc.  Create a "craft drawer" with a mixture of any discarded items that can be used in a project.  May I suggest adding to the draw from time to time as to encourage new discoveries.  Items to include should be age appropriate and be sure to include a vast array of items like perhaps a lost sock,  buttons, milk jug lids, plastic bag ties, safe but broken toy parts, stickers, glue sticks, roll of tape, safety scissors, beads, etc., etc., etc.

Collaborate with others to gain more inventory choices or access to supplies.  If your neighbor is a scrapbooker- she's got rubber stamps, and cool scissors right?  Can you work out a swap situation or loan locker arrangements of sort?   If you have a pal that likes to sew, there's your source for a mirage of scrap supplies.  Do you know someone with another creative hobby?  Do you know a woodworker, a cake decorator or a dancer with specific talents who is willing to demonstrate their skill for inspiration?    With money tight all around, don't forget to frequent the shelves of a local thrift shop or dollar store for low cost items that can also be safely used for all types of art projects as well.

Take advantage of free or reduced priced introductory classes at a hobby store, craft store, art studio, ceramic warehouse, workshop or workspace near you.  Look for retail stores that offer child-friendly (easy and appealing) suggestions for projects or lessons to help facilitate creativity with their pre-made kits (which are less costly than buying all of the suggested supplies yourself).  Consider that some larger more expensive supplies can be rented like a kiln or wood working tools/saws, if there is a need to explore those options.

Art is a subject matter that requires involvement at the start.  Any allowance of freedom or expression can open the doors to all sorts of approvals and acceptance situations.  It is for this reason that being involved in an artistic project at any stage provides encouragement and hope that anything is worth a try, anything is possible, and anything can be a successful experience. 

Explore creative possibilities, or teach someone else to do the same. Seek to be creative.  Foster creativity of yourself and in others  Encourage creative thoughts and actions.  Love art and the creative process.  Good luck and  I hope you become Creative Everyday!"

Hungry? Feed Your Artistic Tummy

Are you hungry?  Have the need to feed your creativity?  Tired of being a starving artist?  Crave a fast, satisfying way to curb your appetite and thirst for creating?  Time to fuel up, gain energy and become mobile with finding inspirations.

TN_04-09-09_83RBSandwichclipart

The best visual cafe is located  right around any corner.  It's a place where you go to get "soul food"; the nourishment for your creative tummy.  Inspiration is virtually everywhere.  You do not have to go far to find it.  Look around.  Soul seek in obvious places and find and consider the over-looked settings where you can go to for inpiration or work space.

Some obvious choices for inspiration:

• magazines
• art/craft books
• craft store
• websites, message boards, forums

Other places of inspiration:

• museums
• galleries
• historic places
• public gardens (nature)
• blogs, groups, clubs, networking events, school, workshops

Overlooked inspirations:

• flea markets
• antique stores
• thrift shops
• old books, library
• fabric store
• art/craft fair
• listening to music
• attend an art retreat-creative vacation
• your dreams

Join forces with the community in which you live.  Feed your ideas.  A new outlook equals a new vision- now that's food for thought!

Dream On...Creative Dreaming

My secret to getting many things done in a single day-  I do not sleep many hours.  When I do experience a really deep sleep however,  it is sure to be accompanied by great or strange dream, all in color, of course! I try to dream possible, not impossible. This meaning that I plan to use my dreams in a creative way later, making my dream a possible useful element in my creative endeavors.   I try to incorporate my dreams from my "sleep life" into my "awake life", it helps me create.

Dreams are a great source of information about yourself and what you're doing in your world, as well as a stimulus for creativity. Their vocabulary is everything you have ever done, seen, thought, and felt, etc. --in other words, an ever-changing palette totally unique to you.   Dreams may reveal inspirations, give you motivation or spark a new notion or solution.  Learn to pay attention to them, even if in part so that your dreams can become as possible as you want them to be, in helping you become more creative.


As I attempt to discover links between any of my waking and dreaming minds (which are totally separate ideals)  it becomes a highway with an increasing amount of traffic of creative ideas.  This also gives me the feeling of being more connected and complete.  Recreating something out of my dreams or out of my norm is a whole creative journey upon itself.  Your brain is brilliant.  Dreaming for possibilities gives you drive and focus.

I have created from time to time items based on an image, or a thought, from a dream.  As an example, I recall one dream including a group of many women, each wearing large and decorative hats.  Each lady showing off unique, strange and colorful creations- all atop their heads.  The ideas stimulated by that dream were easy to replicate in clay even if they were not exact because the whole idea from the dream-like image, was out-of-the- norm for me and I knew just how I wanted to be inspired from it.  To make it work for me- the completed art was turned into a series of Club Creative Studio brooch pins.

The techniques I used in the above art were color mixing my own shades, sculpting as relief, stamping, carving, caning, and mixed media (added wire and beads). This creation ended up becoming an accessory piece of jewelry as a brooch pin.

While the image above was symbolic of the images I saw in my mind as a random dream there is also a term that can be used to describe a different type of dream, "intentional dreaming".

To induce intentional dreaming try the following:

1. Write, read, or think about a topic you're interested in just before going to sleep (writing seems to work best)
This serves to bring your brain's attention to the subject and put it on notice that you're serious about whatever the topic.

2. When you first wake up, or in that beginning stage of waking/drifting:
Notice the first image or scene that comes to you even if it seems unrelated, and if you write down what you "see" you will remember the image longer. Analyzing dreams and decoding them is a science and I can't give you answers on deciphering them or interpreting them but number three point may help you understand more.

3. I can tell you that if you ask yourself specific questions before sleep, you may awake to hold some insight into the requested answers you seek.  The information you sift through may not seem to be anything that you asked for but you have to associate and relate your images to understand  what it "means" to you.  How do the dream images fit back in to the story of your dream?

4. Another way to begin getting the outer and inner parts of your brain closer together is to draw (and/or write) a scene(s) from your dream.   This seems to put your brain more firmly in the track of  documenting and integrating your symbolic experiences. Call it a "dream book".  Use a notebook,  decorate it and review it to see how you can incorporate your dreams and visions in to your daily creative life.  Dream on!  Dream Possible! Dream with a creative purpose!

Oodles of Doodles

Do you spend time making oodles of doodles?  It is not just a waste of time.  Actually, they are a terrific exercise to help you become more creative and remain more creative. Your thoughts become more imaginative.  It becomes easier  for you to brainstorm  new ideas and the exercise of doodling unlocks your creative mind to be free to explore creative fun.
Doodles are very simple lines that become drawings that eventually evolve into other images.  They may start out as a few meaningless lines but, after adding your own lines - and color if you like - your drawing becomes anything you like. The point of  a doodle is not to create art, simply to use your creative vision.   This vision is often unplanned but it can have great outcomes.  They are fun to do and you can see yourself evolve and your thoughts unfold almost before your eyes, as you create doodles.

When I was younger I used to play a game that involved doodles.  It was mainly a "car game" but, it was adaptable whenever two or more gathered.  Low cost, you only need paper and a writing instrument.  A simple line is drawn on the sheet of paper by one person, then the pencil and paper is passed to another.  The second person adds an additional single line to the original line drawn and then passes it back.  The image that is a transformation from the first line drawn is part of a collaborative creative process.  The "players" feed off of each others vision.  It is fun to see what the final outcome turns out to be.  It may be a totally nonsense image or it may end up being a recognizable image that together  you both build upon with combined doodles.  As an example, if a few lines turn into the outline of a house,  each of you may recognize that and your additional lines become details of that house.  It may end up having detailed shingles on its roof, curtains in the windows, a mailbox in the front yard and so on and so on.  The outcome will show creativity in all aspects.

When you become creative with visual brainstorming activities like this you are collaboratively generating ideas without using the spoken or written word. It's a fantastic exercise.   To spice up the game, you may add colored  markers and find that a sort of masterpiece is created in the end after all.  Create oodles of doodles and see where your creativity takes you!

Club Creative Studio Art- Changes Like Weather

Club Creative Studio art changes like the weather.  Is there a connection? 

SNOW ON THE BEACH!  There is a whole lot ta whoop la going on today in my world about getting to see snow along the east coast.  It doesn't happen very often.  The sheer anticipation has been building for a few days.  I am looking out the window at a beautiful and steady snowfall, as I write this blog.  Today is not the first time for snow in our area but still, in my neighborhood some do not have shovels, an ice scrapper, hand-warmers in the glove box or the notion of how to build a snowman in their front yard.  We are simply  not as prepared as we could be.  Most of us were lucky enough to get information about this in a timely manner and  we experienced anticipation until it actually became part of our life early this morning.  It's a time to really pay attention to happenings around us.

I especially took note of this predicted snowfall because I knew it was going to have a direct impact on my plans for the day and maybe the whole week.  I subconsciously also had the idea of making an analogy comparing this weather and my business efforts.  I started to think of the correlations, and decided to blog about my thoughts and comparisons.

For days now, the weather updates have been trying to prepare us of what we may encounter.  The anticipation has been building.  The first aspect that came to mind  as a business connection was the Club Creative Studio Facebook page.  On that page, I too share information about what fans can look forward to seeing as they prepare to visit the website.  I often post "sneak peeks" of art not yet posted online, in the same sense that the weather anchor gives us a picture in our mind as to what is heading in our direction.  I provide images of what to look forward to seeing and perhaps even purchasing.  My special feature section recently added a spot where I can highlight an item and expand on a bit more detail about it.

Snow in NC- 1-10-2011

Once the predicted weather is actually part of our day, the reports switch to looking around and noticing what needs to be done to insure that a situation gets better.  I too like to look around and try to figure out how I can share art with those who are both familiar and new to our creations. After all, I am trying to make the fashion and home decor situation better as well, visually better! I strive to be creative everyday.

Continued updates and newsflashes give us more information on the weather at hand. I'd like to think that I can be like the scrolling inclement weather advisory at the bottom of the television screen.  I too can inform and update quick notes via the phone, e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and by using photos and video.  I can prompt you to visit the online store, take note of the special feature section on the website, read a new blog,  or meet me as I display art in a specific venue. 

Once the weather condition has passed, we look around and reflect on how it made an impact on us.  As a comparison, it is like seeing the beautiful photos that people send in of the scenic beauty in their own backyard after a snowfall.  They use their camera or words to describe their personal experiences and  desire to share their image with the public.  For me, a similar reflection comes when a customer shares a testimonial with me.  They are valued testament of  satisfaction in product and service. Written or verbal, the approval reactions are valued and contribute to the whole story.

Like the weather, my art is ever-changing. The one-of-a-kind status of each item lends itself to a inventory that is updated frequently.  You've got to keep up if you want to see how we are evolving, and what is available.  Those qualities are what keep us challenged to be creative everyday and we enjoy the opportunity to keep in touch with you with any news.  How can your business relate to the weather report- are you open to change? Do you bend with the wind?  Are you prepared to weather each storm? Make sure you have a sunny outlook and take each day as it is given to you.

In closing, I think one main difference between me and the weather reporter is that sometimes the final outcome is not accurate to what was first reported.  I thought of how I do provide accuracy.  I provide detailed descriptions about my art on the website and  I provide the best photos I can in natural lighting conditions.  These factors along with continual truthful communication give me an edge to remaining accurate in what I report: Our Art  Sets You Apart!

Up-Cycle with Recycled Materials

 "Up-Cycling"- it's a term that I like to use to describe a new or up-scale version of an item that is being recycled.  If something is recycled  in part or in whole, the entire green concept of recycling is smart for our environment, our mind-set and our wallets.  I have been asked  and entrusted to stretch my imagination and up-cycle many projects for customers.  A new level of aesthetics can be produced and appreciated at the same time any memories or ideas associated with the original item are recognized in the new creation.

Whenever I embark on an up-cycle project, I am sure to take a before and after photograph of the original item. By doing so, I am documenting the historical importance of the original item design and provide evidence of a new design with new age functions or style.



Photo A. Initial necklace to deconstruct.



An example of an up-cycled project I took on that was especially interesting and meaningful was one that involved a necklace that was also a family heirloom.  It belonged to the great-grandmother of a customer's husband.  The assignment was to take apart the necklace and recycle the components to create four new items from the initial single item.  To make that possible, I had to add additional beads and findings and I needed to match up closely anything that I wanted to add for the sake of cohesion. Photo A. is the initial heirloom necklace.  I completed the task by designing  two necklaces, a bracelet and a pair of earrings, all of which included some part of the original item. 



Photo B, up-cycle necklace & bracelet.

 I happened to be able to match the up almost perfectly the smaller white marble effect beads to add as spacer beads.  Because the original beads were marble, they were very heavy and this necklace weighed a lot for something that was to be around your neck at any given time. Never-the-less, the filler beads that I matched up were more light weight and still had the same look and feel as the marble beads so they mixed well with them and coordinated the entire style. In photo B you see one up cycled necklace creation and a bracelet.

After the completion of the project, I learned more details about the original necklace by way of a thank you note.  It seems that the necklace had particular

sediments associated with it for numerous family members.  Apparently, once a year, as the family would spend time at a cabin with Great-Grandma, she would lend this necklace to the little girls who were in the family and they would take turns and proudly walk around and model it during their playtime visits.  When their beloved passed away, the necklace was then brought to me to deconstruct and then reconstruct to be shared with all of the girls in the family that had the chance to wear the necklace during those special cabin visits from their childhood.



Photo C. up-cycled necklace & earrings.



It was an added plus to learn so many details and sediments associated with this project.   One of the gifts was given for a specific birthday, a daughter's twenty first birthday. I think that was the most memorable experiences I have had so far in a reconstruction project.  Everyone was happy with the results and everyone was left with a great tangible memory of their relative and time spent with them.  Can art make a difference in your life?  YOU BET!  This is proof!

Rummage through your jewelry box and find something that is broken or no longer worn.  Up-cycle it into something new and pleasing to wear once again.

 

If that is not possible for you to do- contact me, I may be able to help you!

           

             veronica@clubcreativestudio.com




 

Building Blocks To Creativity

 Building Blocks to C r E a T  i  v  I  t y

Please believe it- we are constantly being creative.  A three year old is being creative  using crayons on paper.  We are creative when we paint on a canvas.  However, creativity doesn't have to focus on the visual arts.  You are creative when you exchange garlic salt for cayenne in your latest recipe.

All you have to do to be creative is forget about being ordinary. - Veronica Campos-Hallstrom

The general public tends to think of creativity as an unplugged talent that strikes only a few gifted people.  Maybe famous people are the ones that come to mind even before others who are creative around them.  Creativity is studied by researchers.  They find evidence that creativity levels are determined by how a individual knowledge combines with concepts to create new perspectives.

Creativity does not come without thought.  A deep well of information must be sorted in order to be open to ideas and gain a desired result.  You can always develop your creative skills and knowledge for creativity.  Ideas away from the ordinary can become almost automatic and available whenever we need them if we practice looking at the project at hand differently.

Using a relaxed focus or what is referred to as "moodling" becomes an important part of the creative process as well.  We have all had the experience of forgetting the name of someone or  item we were planning to add to a shopping list.  The interesting thing about long term memory is that when we practice in a creative and relaxed way, we are triggered to remember it a few minutes later.  To be creative means to combine ideas, focused effort and synthesis of knowledge.  Creativity may be a joyous experience, in the creative state we are open to suggestion and risk.  Fostering creativity brings productivity toward goals and satisfaction with accomplishments.  Let's use the image of a child playing with wooden blocks.  How are they being creative?  They are focused, relaxed and not afraid of failure.  Once they have completed their construction or project at hand, they are satisfied or they start being creative once again. It can be endless creativity! Your kids can make just about anything he dreams up. And instead of asking your child, “What did you make?”, say “Tell me what you made,” you’ll be surprised with their answers. I know, I had those children myself and I taught them in a school setting as well.  Children are born creative- we need to regain it as adults.


If we practice and remain creative, there will be less barriers, no frustrations and more successes.  It will allow you to reach deep inside yourself and challenge you.  Creativity is a process of transformation.  When you seek a creative life- there is no looking backward.  You live life forward.  Hip-Hip-Hooray to  being known as a "Forward Thinker" from now on!

Out of Your Mind Not to Outsource?

I was recently asked to ponder what aspect of my business I would wish to outsource if given the chance.  Giving up
(in part) responsibility in management or allowing the flexibility of change in any capacity of control needs time for consideration and planning.  It got me thinking:  Am I out of my mind if I do not outsource?  



Club Creative Studio Protective Pouches.
Outsourced for creation from my Mother.

I think, however that you need to know yourself well enough to know if you are overwhelmed, over worked or are even open to the idea of taking on help from others in order to free your time for other aspects of your business.  Sometimes growth is the main reason for interest in outsourcing some of your tasks, sometimes it might be the idea of just being able to focus that extra time on an aspect that needs more of your attention. And for me an even better reason is that someone else can simply do the job better than myself. Enter...stage right- My Mother!


My Mom- creative seamstress.

I do already happily outsource one aspect of my business.  My fantastic Mother helps me by contributing her creative sewing skills.  She hand-sews each of the protective pouches that Club Creative Studio includes with each purchase.  She also designed our special tags.

She loves helping me, it gives her something to do in her day, she can definitely do it better and quicker, than I could.  She can be trusted, and she has the level of creativity and quality that I expect.  I know I have found at least one great helper that lightens my load and also provides something that I need in my everyday art transactions.  Cheers to my great Mother!

If you are able to mega-task and do your things effectively then I do not see any immediate need to pass on your chores to anyone else.  If you are that type A that can manage time, health, and wealth then I say; keep up the good work and share with others how you do that.  For me, the timing has to be right for me to welcome an extra hand.  It seems that at certain times, the business needs extra help in preparations.  Any major gift-giving holiday for example requires me to be extra prepared with inventory.  I know that I also like to have items on hand for future use. The stock-pile is important for me to maintain too.  I appreciate knowing that I have enough of our hand-made fabric pouches to coordinate with hand-made art. 

I  also have to determine the need level .  If I get to the point when I am not happy with spreading myself so thin- that would be at a point to consider outsourcing.   It is true that one person can not be in two places at the same time.  For that reason, you may want to keep the idea of outsourcing in the back of your mind or at the forefront as well.

And of course you have to deal with the issue of trust.  Can you locate a person or have faith in the system or work ethic of someone else to do the job just as you would or even better?  I know finding those characteristics are hard.  That is why I have people who might fit the short list that are qualified and willing to help as outside helpers if needed seasonally.  The other aspect to consider is funding.  How would you fund the services someone provides to you?  What would you offer as adequate or satisfactory payment?  Could you offer a trade of services?  It is sure an option that I have offered, swapping art for help.



Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.   Elizabeth Bibesco