Seasons of Art: Spring

Seasons of Art: Spring

Seasons of Art: Spring 2023

Group Meeting

Learn more about the recent Seasons of Art group meeting.

See more about the Seasons of Art group here.

 

Satvvir’s Artwork

Below is Satvvir’s artwork (Instagram @theambivertsbb). She used watercolor and combined orabges and yellows with a lot of texture in this piece.

Arwynne’s Artwork

 Here is Arwynne’s finished artwork. You can see more of her work at IG @mspinkdotcom.

Gillian’s Artwork

Below is Gillian’s finished artwork. I first meyt Gillian when she led a watercolor class at the Elephant Studio in Vancouver. Follow Gillian at IG @gillianpearsonart.

 

Alison’s Artwork

Below is my artwork of the still life done in watercolor. I tried to create something in the center which I couls later frame and hang on my wall. The main horizontal is slightly out which I adjusted when placing it in teh frame.

 

Seasons of Art Group YouTube Video

I complied a YouTube video of the evening’s activities and you can check it all out by clicking on teh video below. 

Seasons of Art Group: The Gals

Our group photo taken at the end. frome left to right Gillian, Satvvir, Arwynne and Alison. We had a really nice evenign and I look forward to doing it again soon.

gillian-satvvir-arwynne-alison
Alison Hazel

Author Bio: Alison Hazel

Alison Hazel is a hobby artist and she shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Read more about Alison’s story.

Send Alison a quick message.

Artzlife Newsletter

Artzlife Newsletter

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: December 2024 Artzlife Newsletter Creative art journal inspiration for hobby artists Welcome to a Place for Passionate Hobby Artists Are you a hobby artist seeking inspiration, connection and gentle guidance on your creative...

Grid Art Journal Page Setup

Grid Art Journal Page Setup

Grid Art Journal Page Setup and Flip Through This time I'm sharing with you some of the types of things that I've been putting in my grod art journal pages, as a hobby artist. I believe this will inspire you to get started. I'll show you how to set up a grid art...

Using Moon Phases in Your Creative Process

Using Moon Phases in Your Creative Process

Author: Alison Hazel   –   Published: June 2023

Using Moon Phases in Your Creative Process

Pondering

I was thinking earlier this week about when I have multiple projects on the go that each venture may be in a different “phase of progress” than the others. When I say “project” I mean creative projects mainly artworks, art challenges, writing, cooking, garden design or crochet (I like to crochet) or other things you are working on. Some projects may just wither on the vine never to see the light of day.

 

Natural Cycles

As a keen follower of the natural cycles of the Earth, Sun and the Moon, I believe that you can align your creative process to the phases of the Moon. The Lunar phases are closely related to the plant life cycle. The principles of “phase” can be linked to your creative process and art or craft projects as well.

Moon Phases

Moon’s Orbit

The Moon takes about a month (or four weeks) to orbit the Earth. As it does so we see more, or less, light reflected from the surface of the Moon depending on its relationship with the Earth and the Sun. There are eight lunar phases and each phase lasts about three and a half days.

Dark and Light

At the New Moon the Moon is dark and at Full Moon the Moon’s light is at its brightest. This constant changing from light and dark and back again is symbolic.

Phase Keywords

Each phase traditionally has keywords associated with it and below is a modern list of traditional keywords for the lunar phases. You can find out more about Moon phases on this LINK.

Lunar Phase Keywords

New Moon Phase

Keywords for the New Moon phase are instinct, emergence and subjective.

Crescent Phase

Keywords for the Crescent phase are forward, self-belief and eager confidence.

First Quarter Phase

Keywords for the First Quarter phase are constructive growth, forceful and crisis in action.

Gibbous Phase

Keywords for the Gibbous phase are contribution overcome and perfection.

Full Moon Phase

Keywords for the Full Moon phase are clarity, mature and illumination.

Disseminating Phase

Keywords for the Disseminating phase are transmitting information, knowledge dispersal and conveying awareness.

Last Quarter Phase

Keywords for the Last Quarter phase are crisis in consciousness, pioneering and reorientation.

Balsamic Phase

Keywords for the Balsamic phase are release, surrender and closure.

 

Project Creative Phases

Phase Development

If we align the meaning of the moon phase with how a project develops it may go something like this. It is likely that there will be many more projects in the seed phase, in fact you would probably always be in this phase as ideas appear.

Whereas the later phase would have less projects as some do not take off or you kill them off naturally. Typically, I would think you would have one monster project in the final stages that is moving onto the Balsamic phase.

Multiple Projects

I also think that if I have multiple projects on the go at once thay will each be in a different phase to each other.

Seed Phase: New Moon Phase

Ideas

This is where ideas are born. They are the seed moments when ideas drift into your mind. Ideas can come to you at any time if the day and the knack here is to capture fleeting ideas.

 

Dreams

A great source of ideas is in your dreams. Make sure to have a dream journal and pen at your bedside to immediately write down your dreams.

new-moon-phase

Sprout Phase: Crescent Phase

Cultivate Ideas

Here you allow your seeds to germinate and sprout into the first leaf. This is a delicate time and things are still touch and go.

 

Wither on the Vine

You may decide to let some ideas go at this stage. You could nurture one or two projects forward into the next phase of development.

crescent-moon-phase

Experimentation Phase: First Quarter Phase

Techniques

In this phase you try different techniques and methods. Here you have a slightly robust idea or project and now you can stress test it.

 

Tinkering

There are many ways to check your outlines, designs or artwork now. Changes can still be made.

first-quarter-phase

Prototype Phase: Gibbous Phase

Examples in Hand

Now you have something to chew on. You have many wrinkles ironed out. You can see the glimmer in potential of your project.

Private

You keep your project quiet. You only share your vision with your nearest and dearest as you don’t want the whole thing to fizzle out from negative thinking.

gibbous-moon-phase

Crafting Phase: Full Moon Phase

Focus

This is the culmination phase and you can clearly see flaws and the strengths about it. You have a fully-fledged project or prototype.

Potential

This stage shows potential and you can fully visualize your outcomes now. This is the early fruit.

full-moon-phase

Marketing Phase: Disseminating Phase

Spread the News

Now you talk to your beta testers, pattern testers or recipe testers. Now you soft launch and gently talk up your upcoming project.

Disciples

You may seek backers or collaborators who can spread the word on your behalf. Now your audience gets behind your project. This can be a long phase as marketing and social media exposure can go on for a while.

disseminating-lunar-phase

Completion Phase: Last Quarter Phase

Public Launch

This is the moment and you go public and wrap-up your package. At this time your course, artwork, music, book or pattern is ready for sale. The public can now review, buy or consume, what you have created and people may lap up your offering.

Comments

There will be feedback from your tribe with both positive and negative comments. Brace yourself.

last-quarter-phase

Passive Phase: Balsamic Phase

Recovery

This is the period of post project rest, recovery and rejuvenation. Now is the time to hibernate or take a vacation. These are the moments after a project has launched, or the art gallery showing is over, or the book is out there. It is a time to let your project stand up and speak for itself.

Replenish Energy

Without further tinkering or attention. It is now in the passive income phase. You get to take a break to rest, relax and allow yourself time to refill your creative well. Without this phase you may become burnt out and feel depleted. Take care to avoid going straight into another big project before you have recovered from the current one.

balsamic-lunar-phase

Journal Page

To help me remember all these features of each Moon phase as they related to my project work I have created a colorful page in my journal.

I am likely to see my journal page often as I flip through and review where I am and what I’m planning to do next.

It is a visual way to bring focus to the different phases of each project I’m working on at present. You may like to draw this image in your journal as well.

 

Pin this image to your Pinterest board.

How Long Does it Take?

How long does a project take from start to finish? It depends on what you are making.

If you are writing a book, or a screenplay it could take you a year. If you are creating a set of 12 calendar images it could be three months. If you are crafting a crochet pattern or recipe it could take one month. There is more about creative projects and their timelines in this link.

Timing

Do bear in mind that everything takes longer that you anticipate. This is the nature of life. Give yourself enough time to fully let your project germinate, develop, blossom and fruit.

Type of Projects

Here are some ideas of projects, both art and not, where you can use the Moon phase principles.

  • Crochet patterns
  • Planning a wedding
  • Painting a picture
  • Taking an art challenge
  • Writing a book
  • Making a series of images
  • Creating a course
  • Testing recipes for a book
  • Building a blog
  • Building a YouTube channel

Thank you for spending a part of your day with me.

using-lunar-phases-in-your-creative-projects

Save this pin to read later.

Alison Hazel

Author Bio: Alison Hazel

Alison Hazel is a hobby artist and she shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Read more about Alison’s story.

Send Alison a quick message.

Artzlife Newsletter

Artzlife Newsletter

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: December 2024 Artzlife Newsletter Creative art journal inspiration for hobby artists Welcome to a Place for Passionate Hobby Artists Are you a hobby artist seeking inspiration, connection and gentle guidance on your creative...

Artzlife Newsletter

Artzlife Newsletter

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: December 2024 Artzlife Newsletter Creative art journal inspiration for hobby artists Welcome to a Place for Passionate Hobby Artists Are you a hobby artist seeking inspiration, connection and gentle guidance on your creative...

Artzlife Newsletter

Artzlife Newsletter

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: December 2024 Artzlife Newsletter Creative art journal inspiration for hobby artists Welcome to a Place for Passionate Hobby Artists Are you a hobby artist seeking inspiration, connection and gentle guidance on your creative...

Perpetual Nature Journal

Perpetual Nature Journal

Author: Alison Hazel   –   Published: December 2021   –   Revised: January 2024

Perpetual Nature Journal: Start Here

Start here with your Perpetual Nature Journal. I’ve gathered all the relevant posts from my Perpetual Nature Journal here on this page so you can find them all in one place. Many of you have asked to see the development of this journal, and while my Perpetual Nature Journal is still pretty new, it is growing and developing quietly in the background of my seasonal art practice.

 

Perpetual Nature Journal: Initial Setup

Here is more information on how to set up your Perpetual Nature Journal. Once you have a journal you can create the cover page.

 

Each Month’s Pages

Every month has its own page or pages in my Perpetual Nature Journal. Below are the images I have drawn so far. I’ve grouped them by month as that is how the sketch book develops. Over time more and more images will be posted here.

May

In May 2022 I drew the Canada Geese at the coast. This was my very first sketch in my Perpetual Nature Journal and at this stage I was not sure where I was going with this art initiative.

June

In June 2022 I drew the Inukshuk in monochrome inks at the coast. This was my second sketch in my Perpetual Nature Journal.

October

In October 2022 I drew the Weird Gourds in my studio. This piece was with colored inks and was quite messy in the kitchen.

 

November

In November 2022 I drew the Autumn Leaf in colored pencil in my studio.

 

 

Alison Hazel

Author Bio: Alison Hazel

Alison Hazel is a hobby artist and she shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Read more about Alison’s story.

Send Alison a quick message.

AHAtober 2024

AHAtober 2024

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: July 2024 AHAtober 2024 Welcome to AHAtober 2024! AHAtober is a special event for meditative artists, inspired by the popular Inktober challenge. This month-long journey is designed to bring calmness and creativity together,...

Freebies

Freebies

Author: Alison Hazel   –   Published:  January 2023   –   Revised:  February 2024

Gifts for You

As a strong creative and arty person, for many years, I have generated countless free resources on Alison Hazel Art. These guides, lists and templates are to help you get back to art, get to grips with being a hobby artist and build your art micro side business.

But these freebies are scattered all over my website and so, to help you out even more, I have put all my Alison Hazel Art Freebies in one place, right here. From now on you can easily look through all of them and get the ones you want and need right now.

Face of Jesus Guide

  • How to draw the Face of Jesus – This is a guide I made to help get the facial proportions correct and for a starting point to draw Christ. Use your intuition when using this guide.

Fibonacci Shell Template

  • Fibonacci Shell Template – This is a quick template to draw the dynamic natural Fibonacci shell which is, let’s face it, a tricky design to get your head around. 

 

 

Alison Hazel

Author Bio

Alison Hazel is a woman who shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Read more about Alison’s story.

Send Alison a quick message.

AHAtober 2024

AHAtober 2024

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: July 2024 AHAtober 2024 Welcome to AHAtober 2024! AHAtober is a special event for meditative artists, inspired by the popular Inktober challenge. This month-long journey is designed to bring calmness and creativity together,...

Artzlife Newsletter

Artzlife Newsletter

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: December 2024 Artzlife Newsletter Creative art journal inspiration for hobby artists Welcome to a Place for Passionate Hobby Artists Are you a hobby artist seeking inspiration, connection and gentle guidance on your creative...

Autumn Leaf Colored Pencil Art

Autumn Leaf Colored Pencil Art

Introduction

Seasonal Beginning, Middle and End

Each of the four seasons, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter, has a beginning, a middle and an end.

There is early Autumn when the Sun is in Virgo (September/October), middle Autumn when the Sun is in Libra (October/November) and late Autumn when the Sun is in Scorpio (November/December).

I live in Vancouver and, during November, the late Autumn leaves fall from the trees every day.

For this sketch I waited for the leaves to be variegated.

Multicolored leaves meant that one leaf has green, red and yellow in it.

I did not want to be too early in the season when the leaves and mainly green with a little red.

Additionally, I did not want to wait too late when the leaves get to be a washed-out yellow color which happens later in the season.

This is tricky and I had to be on the lookout every day to see which leaves meet my “color variety” mid-season criteria.

Get a Leaf

Well enough about that, just get a leaf to draw.

Hobby Artist

I am a hobby artist which means I’m sharing my journey to get better with art with you. I believe that in time to come I will get better at drawing as I hone my craft with more practice and some art classes.

I believe that Leonardo da Vinci took seventeen years before he was skilled enough to draw his masterpieces, so there is no rush for me or for you.

Perpetual Nature Journal

Perpetual Nature Journal

This time I am working on the November page of my Perpetual Nature Journal.

You can find out more about my Perpetual Nature Journal.

Pencil Sketch

I did a light pencil sketch picking up the main veins and outline of the leaf.

Colored Pencil

The colored pencils I’m using are Faber Castell polychromas.

I like to start with the lightest color first and build up to the darker colors in layers.

Yellow

I used dusky yellow called dark Naples ochre and went over the middle parts near the veins.

Orange

Using cadmium orange, I laid down some color further from the veins towards the center of the leaf.

Red

The red I chose is called middle cadmium red which is deep and ruby like to give the red color to the leaf. The leaf is red in blotches again between the veins.

Green

Finally, the green I selected is named olive green yellowish which tells you it is a yellow green and not a blue green which is what you want for natural foliage, yellow green that is.

Art Supplies

The art supplies I used are listed here but I urge you to use what you have at hand.

 

  • Sketchbook
  • 2h Pencil
  • Eraser

Faber Castel Polychromas Colored Pencils

 

 

  • Yellow pencil
  • Orange pencil
  • Red pencil
  • Green pencil

Color Swatch

At the end I created a small color swatch on the side and wrote the specific colors that I used on the page in my journal.

Swatching is a great idea so you can reproduce the exact drawing again later.

Thank You

Thank you for sharing a part of your day with me.

Love,

Alison

Alison Hazel

Author Bio

Alison Hazel shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Go here to read more about Alison’s story.

If you want to send Alison a quick message go here.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, check out some more of our art related articles below.

Acrylic Overpainting: Ikea Artwork

Acrylic Overpainting: Ikea Artwork

Author: Alison Hazel   -   Published: January 2024 Overpainting Last month I decided to paint over, or overpaint, a large Ikea artwork I had in my living room. Over painting is a technique used by many of the great artists when supplies were short and canvasses hard...

How One Artist Won Inktober for the First Time

How One Artist Won Inktober for the First Time

Introduction

This year, 2022, I was delighted to discover the artist, Sandra Sobota @faerenn and she took up the challenge and completed all thirty days of Inktober using the AHAtober prompts for self-care.

I recently interviewed Sandra and I am thoroughly excited to share her thoughts on this art challenge with you.

Alison

About Sandra

Are you a full-time artist or do you have a day job?

In everyday life, I am an English teacher. After failing to get a well-paid job in a big city to continue living there after my graduation, I decided to return to my hometown, the furniture industry. I thought I’d end up as an office worker with English skills, but the local job market was in a dire need of good English teachers. I teach in high school, and in a private school, in which I conduct remedial classes for students that fall behind, extra classes for ambitious students, and courses for adult groups. My working hours are irregular but I generally work from 8 AM to 8 PM. I am often tired, but I love my job and the people I work with.

My students’ age varies from 11 to even 77 years!

What city/country do you live in?

I’m from Kępno, Poland. Kępno is a small town with about 15 thousand inhabitants. It’s situated 75 km from Wroclaw, and about 160 km from Poznań where I used to live for 6 years, during my university years. I also mentioned before that it’s the furniture industry, having about 800 furniture-making companies here!

Do you consider yourself as a hobby artist or a commercial artist or something else?

I’d say, I’m more of a hobby artist. Drawing helps me relax, and it gives me some joy, it defines me and reflects my feelings. Sometimes I decide to share my creations, and it makes me happy when people share their enthusiasm towards my works. But the number of followers I have is mostly people I know. I guess I don’t have it in me that would make people stay, or I can blame the algorithm for this. But I’d still want to remain myself, and create art out of joy.

However, I did sell some pieces. I had some paid commissions, once I drew a girl from a photo I liked, and her mother wrote to me that she wanted to purchase the drawing from me. And I drew for a charity auction, the drawing was sold for an amazing price, in USD currency it would be around US$75, in my country, that’s a lot of money.

Did you go to art school or design college?

Imagine that I wanted to go to art school, but I was rejected! They preferred students who mastered some well-known techniques, e.g. cubism, and realism. I found a lack of creativity and uniqueness in their works. It felt like those students weren’t people but machines programmed to produce some art. While creating something, I live by this quote found in The Cat Returns (2002) by Studio Ghibli  (Hayao Miyazaki):

“Whenever someone creates something with all of their heart, then that creation is given a soul.”

And the creations I saw back then, had no soul. It opened my eyes and made me give up on the idea of going to any art school; I didn’t want to be abused by some strict art teachers, produce fine art masterpieces that no one would even hear of, and, most of all, be a nobody. I’ve never heard of any famous graduates from that art school I tried to apply to. I didn’t want to end up sitting on the street, begging for someone to buy my art.

Most artists I know and admire are self-taught and didn’t finish any art schools, I find it redundant.

Are you into self-care in general?

It’s hard to tell. I know self-care is important, but I’ve just only realized it not so long ago. It was the end of summer 2017, when I set myself free from a heavy burden that destroyed me mentally, I was a total wreck. I remember I was seeing a psychiatrist, I was on antidepressants, too. And while still recovering, I managed to get my master’s degree. It gave me a lot of power and feeling invincible. I alluded to those events in my other work, DAWN (no. 19)

However, I do struggle with body positivity. I do suffer from body dysmorphic disorder, which was triggered by the past trauma, including comparing to others, bullying and lowering my self-esteem by the third party. I’m still trying to find my way around self-care. I consider myself a student in this field, but a sloppy one (laugh). I tend to sacrifice my needs for the greater good.

What inspires you and to whom do you look up?

I enjoy works of Neimy Kanani especially her works from the prior years, when she used sketches, ink and watercolors. I like her style and way of coloring. Some works may be similar to hers, at some point. I love her lining.

However, my watercolor guru is none other than Gris Grimly. I love his watercolor coloring and the way he draws figures. I am into spooky stuff, and his characters. It’s way different from my doll-like characters, but this makes his figures interesting and original, he isn’t afraid of playing with geometry. When it comes to his coloring, I know he uses Holbein’s watercolors and masking fluid, something that I still have to get familiar with.

What is your favorite color and why?

I have 3 favorite colors, black, yellow and red (and I even mentioned them on no. 26, LIGHT! 😊.

I like black for its uniqueness. I don’t find it a solemn color, but rather elegant and intimidating. I feel good wearing black and this color attracts me.

Red, for its vividness and energy, and I love combination of black and red. My room in my family house is actually red, and I feel good in it!

Yellow is my favorite color from childhood, I consider it a happy color. All things I loved as a  child were yellow – chicks, the sun, daffodils and other yellow flowers. I like returning with my thoughts to those happy moments.

Inktober/AHAtober

How many times have you done Inktober in the past or is this your first year?

This was my first year of doing Inktober. I’ve always wanted to do it, but I never had time, or I thought so. Some events in my life allowed me to have extra time and made it possible for me to participate.

Why did you choose to do the AHAtober self-care prompts in 2022?

I was looking for something different from the original prompt list – Honestly, I didn’t like it. Not because there was something I couldn’t do, but I like themed lists. I read the entire prompt list and I was able to envision each one of them, so I decided to stick with it.

How did you manage to draw thirty images in October? Was it easy or a challenge to complete them on time?

I had to cheat a little, I admit. There were times which proved to be impossible to draw during that day. Some drawings, sketches or outlines were made way earlier before their time, for example LOVE (no. 29), which was made at the end of September!

Did you have a special time set aside in the day for making the artworks?

Continuing the answer to the previous questions, some sketches or outlines were made earlier, e.g., during the weekend. On Saturday I could create up to 4-5 sketches/outlines, which would leave me with the coloring part.

I tried to color them when there was natural light available, usually between 8AM to 10AM, and this is also the time when the drawings were posted online. Later on during the day, I’d have little time to draw or color. I sometimes started coloring late in the evening, to finish it in the morning.

Please can you share some of your process with us?

I don’t have much photos from the process but I could describe how the work process looked like. I started with some coffee, and scrolling through some of my daily pages. Then, I turned to Pinterest on which I watch some color aesthetics. This way I know how some colors work. I started imagining characters with the given colors, sometimes choosing the colors prior to the sketch. I have no problems with ideas or concepts, but sometimes I needed some guidance, I have two:

After envisioning things, I started drawing with my mechanical pencil – as a child I hated them, but with time, I started appreciating how thin they are, and my hand also became more gentle, so I had no issues while using it. When I considered my initial sketch done, I started the lines with Pigma MICRONs, then I could erase the pencil with a kneaded eraser – I like those erasers, because they don’t damage the paper, and don’t leave any flakes. I can tap them to easily remove the pencil.

After it was done, then I started coloring. I colored whatever I saw fit, but usually I started with the skin.

What was your favorite prompt from AHAtober this year?

It’s hard to choose my favorite.

However, I like what I did in SKY (no. 8). A girl and a dress made of clouds, semi-transparent. In here, I made quite realistic clouds, as I’ve tried a little bit of Bob Ross in my life. I’m glad I still remember how to do it 😊

I also love the smoothness of skin in JOURNAL (no.12), I think I did an amazing job with the blush, but it was a matter of the right timing.

And I like FRAGRANCE (no.17), I thought I’d ruin it while coloring but the robe turned out amazing. This is the drawing I loved from the very sketch, and I was struggling with the decision whether to color it or not.

What was your least favorite prompt from AHAtober this year?

I hated it when the prompts were similar, e.g. SUNRISE/DAWN, with little technical difference. But the piece I can say I hate the most is RELAX LOVE (no. 28).

Honestly, there was nothing wrong with it, I liked it as a sketch, but I felt I ruined it with the coloring. I thought the colors would work the way I thought, but I was so wrong. I insisted on adding purple and then green hues, and it made it a total mess. I think if I used just blue colors, it’d turn out better.

To win Inktober you must create thirty drawings during October, what advice can you give our readers who want to try Inktober or AHAtober in the future, so they can succeed?

If you know that you have little time in your pocket, start a little bit earlier. Some artists had half of the Inktober pieces ready before Inktober even started!

What is your favorite art medium markers, colored pencil, watercolor paint or other?

Actually, it’s watercolor markers, or, Aquamarkers by DecoTimeCrafts, that I found in Action store.

I love that they have a tray. So far, I’ve got a collection of 80 Aquamarkers (80 in a tray, and 10 in a minibox). Above the tray, there’s a framed sampler that I created, to learn how they behave raw, and if you add some water. This way I can easily navigate between the colors.

On rare occasions, I also like watercolor pencils by Koh-i-Noor.

I like to dilute the sketch with water, I also feel I have control over the drawing. It’s actually a great starter if someone wants to begin working with watercolors, especially if this is a shift from colored pencils to watercolors.

I am aware that there are better tools or paints, but I believe that you don’t need the most expensive ones in the world to create the best works, as long as you know the possibilities of the said tools.

Where can our readers see more of your work?

Only on Instagram, here @faerenn.

Honestly, I have two DeviantArt accounts, but I don’t remember the mail and password, it’s a shame. But I feel that DeviantArt is slowly dying – it’s not what it used to be when I was still using it.

How would you sum up your AHAtober experience this year?

It was a very nice experience. Tiring, required some sacrifices, but it allowed me for a moment of reflection. There was even a moment where I allowed myself for a little bit of anger, so the narrative changed from my original concept. I guess I needed this.

My mom told me that she liked it when I elaborated on something. She doesn’t understand English but she pressed “translate” option on Instagram. I know my other friend was also reading my monologues, as I had some discussions with her later on.

Pin this image to your Pinterest board.

What do you plan to do with the AHAtober images which you created?

In my area, there are many children in need, that are trying to get money for life-saving surgeries. For example, a boy with a heart disease which was getting money for a surgery in Boston, MA. Now, there’s a 3-year-old girl with a neuroma. I think I’ll set them up for an auction, where all the money would be donated to their cause.

But prior to that, I’d like to scan my pictures.

What activities will you do the same next year in your art practice to win Inktober?

Definitely making up the most on days off, this is what helped me in catching up (or rather, being ahead of the curve).

What will you change next year for Inktober?

I think I’ll start planning a bit earlier (laugh). I decided to do Inktober quite late.

 

Do you have any further comments that you would like to share?

It kinda felt lonely, as I thought many other people would join your challenge. But who am I to say, I’m not an influencer either, and when my drawings got 30+ likes, I was like, “wow”.

Do you have other hobbies and interests? 

Apart from traditional art, I’m also into digital drawing, sewing and flower embroidery.

Thank you.

You’re welcome 😊 I’m glad I could be a part of your Inktober/AHAtober challenge 😊

Sandra

Alison Hazel

Artist Bio: Sandra Sobota

@faerenn

Sandra Sobota is a teacher and talented watercolor artist from Poland.

She is a mutable water Pisces and loves dogs, animals and nature. Apart from traditional art Sandra enjoys digital drawing, sewing and flower embroidery.

Go here to see more of Sandra’s work.

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Weird Gourds – Colored Ink Art

Weird Gourds – Colored Ink Art

Oh, My Gourd!

I was in my local grocery store yesterday and spotted these weird looking gourds in the pumpkin section.

This is not a vegetable I usually prepare, cook and eat, but I thought maybe this time, as I wanted to add a drawing to my Perpetual Nature Journal, I would see what I could do.

Hello

Hi, I’m Alison and I call myself a hobby artist.

I am on a journey to get better at art and I’m doing this for self-care.

In a digital world I find that slow-paced activities which are creative support my drive for a slower lifestyle.

You can read about my journey.

Art Supplies

Get Your Stuff

I urge you to use the paper, sketchbooks, pencil, inks and paints which you have at hand.

I believe that artists already have what they need and there is no requirement to let not having the exact equipment I used to stop you from creating art.

No excuses here.

Look around and gather your art tools.

Specific Art Supplies

These are the exact art supplies which I used for this artwork.

Part 1 – Drawing the Outside

Perpetual Nature Journal

I added this drawing to my Perpetual Nature Journal on the October page.

This is the first sketch I have for October as I only began this journal earlier in the year in May.

Pencil Sketch

Once I had handled the gourd and rolled it around to find a good side, I lightly sketched the gourd out.

I used my favorite pencil which has a 2H lead. The 2H describes light lines on the page which are easier to erase later.

I took care to get the knobby bits and the color changes as patches as well.

Colored Ink

When working with these inks you do need to shake the bottles beforehand, but you also must wipe off the screw tops before you close them otherwise the stick and you can’t get the lid off next time.

There is an art to looking after your Windsor and Newton inks pots as well.

Yellow

I began with some Canary Yellow ink in my palette and thinned it down quite a bit with water.

I like to keep the paper quite dry and not add too much water, but it is a balancing act.

It seems I prefer to work with the wet on dry technique and not the wet on wet. One.

This opinion may change, but for now it is my selected method of working with colored ink.

Orange

Next, I added some Orange to the palette and dabbed it in where the gourd was much darker.

Green

The green was the Emerald Green to which I added a little Canary Yellow to make it more like a sage or olive green.

I watered down the ink mix quite substantially and then slowly built up the color after each drying.

Layers

I let this artwork dry in between and then added more color with a light touch.

Pen

Finally, I went over the whole drawing with a 0.3mm black pen to define the main outlines.

With this pen I held it loosely and let it wobble a little.

The pen part does give this a flavor of an ink and wash piece.

Part 2 – Drawing the Sliced Half

Hidden

After I’d completed the outside painting of the gourd it occurred to me to look inside.

I struggled considerably to cut this vegetable in half.

I tried my main straight-blade kitchen knife, but to no avail.

Then I got out my big South African cleaver forged from one piece of steel and heavy, oh so heavy, and I managed to push the blade into the gourd.

Artwork

Next, I set about sketching and inking the sectional slice of this gourd.

To be honest there were some interesting seeds in the main cavity, but not much flesh on the gourd only about half an inch of orange pulp.

yellow-gourd

Cooking the Gourd

After finishing the painting, I tried to cook with the gourd.

I had so much trouble chopping this vegetable up that I gave up.

The skin is so tough.

In the end I had about six one-inch cubes of flesh which I added to the pan with my other roast red potatoes, onions and other vegetables which I was cooking that night.

A gourd is not a vegetable that I am likely to buy to consume again.

However, I am likely to buy them for still-life autumnal center pieces which I love to create and draw.

You can see this year’s Seasonal Art Group story here.

Aspiring Artist Activity

Vegetables

This is an activity which can be done by anyone who has vegetable, which I’m assuming is everyone.

Get the kids involved as well.

Find a knobby vegetable that is interesting, perhaps with multiple colors or is a weird shape, which you want to draw.

In your Perpetual Nature Journal and on the appropriate month’s page please do the following:

 

  • On the appropriate month’s section find a suitable page.
  • Draw a light pencil sketch and remember that we are not engraving.
  • Color in or wash with watercolor, colored ink or your favorite art medium.
  • Pen over to add definition to your artwork.
  • Write the name of the plant in pen below.
  • Sign and date somewhere near the bottom left.

Reflection

Daily Life

This is not the most exciting painting you are likely to create.

Rather, it is a part of paying attention to the world around you and noting the details that go in to make up daily life.

Sketch Journal

This sort of activity can also be created in your sketch journal as a drawing about your day.

If you are the sort of artist who constantly draws your coffee cup in your sketch journal, then doing a gourd will spice things up a little.

Celebrate Seasonal Changes

Celebrate the changing seasons with this type of painting.

It could be a part of your Phenology Wheel as well where you observe nature around you and, during Autumn, the fruits and vegetables ripening into maturity.

Thank You

Thank you for spending part of your day with me.

Love,

Alison

Alison Hazel

Author Bio

Alison Hazel is a woman who shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Read more about Alison’s story.

Send Alison a quick message.

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Seasons of Art – Vancouver Group

Seasons of Art – Vancouver Group

What

Group

The “Seasons of Art” is a group that meets once each season with a focus on developing creativity and self-care through simple art and journaling.

The first meeting was on Saturday, October 15th, 2022.

There was a still-life in the colors of the current session on the middle of the table for everyone to draw if they liked.

They did not have to draw the seasonal still-life if they had other art or journaling projects which they were working on.

Host

Hosted by Alison of Alison Hazel Art a hobby artist in Vancouver, Canada.

Alison is building a community of people who love to paint and draw and write in a safe and supporting atmosphere where everyone is valued.

You can find out more about Alison here.

Spring23 Group

Find out about our recent Seasons of Art group meeting for Spring 2023.

Autumn 2022 Seasons of Art Group

I was delighted to have two guests join me at the first session.

As an ice breaker, there was a white board where everyone was invited to draw their avatar and write their contact info if they wished.

See below.

 

Meet and Greet

We all met and got to know each other a little.

They are great gals whom I knew did painting who I reached out to with an invitation.

We fixed some nibbles and poured a glass of cheer.

Then all three of us settled in to sketch and paint the autumnal still-life I had composed earlier on the table.

 

Satvvir’s Artwork

Below is the art that Satvvir created.

Her focus was on the texture of the fruits, the gleam of the copper jugs and the mini cauldron.

She used wax and colored pencil for her delightful composition.

 

Arwynne’s Artwork

Below is the art that Arwynne created.

Her focus was initially on the greenery.

Then she honed in to make a well considered composition of the multiple elements in the still-life arrangement.

 

My Painting

Below is the watercolor artwork I created during the evening.

On my Strathmore watercolor paper I first did a pencil sketch with a 2H pencil then began painting with my Sakura Koi watercolor paints.

I used a fine size 2 paintbrush for all the details.

 

Thank You Keepsake

As a thank you, as the evening wound down, I gave my friends each one of my Winter Circles Neurographic Artist Trading Cards as a keepsake.

In the future, I plan to create other mini take home artpieces as momentoes of the event.

I may even encourage people to bring some to share too. Who knows?

Autumn Seasons of Art Meeting Roundup

I think our evening went well.

We enjoyed sparkling conversation in a safe and supportive environment and we created some original artworks together.

To open a space for creative growth is a wonderful thing.

A win for everyone.

 

Guest Feedback

“Thank you for hosting, it was a fun evening.”

“Thank you for inviting me over and being such a lovely host.”

 

More Details of the Seasons of Art Group

Weekend Evenings

We plan to meet one Saturday or Sunday evening from 6pm to 8pm each season, so we will get together four times a year.

The four seasons are Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter so we plan one session every solar quarter which is three months.

Winter 2023 Date

The proposed date for the Winter Seasons of Art was for January, but it will have to be sometime in February.

I’ll post the exact date when I have it.

If you are interested reach out to me here.

Where

Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver at Alison’s place and later, when we get bigger, in a booked venue somewhere in Downtown Vancouver.

The Summer meeting could perhaps be in a park or at the beach.

Who

Hobby Artists and those who Journal

People who want to be creative.

The Vancouver chapter initially attracts people living in or near the downtown area.

What to Bring

Bring your pencil, pen and sketchpad.

You can bring your watercolors or other mediums.

Bring your open heart.

If you do forget your art gear I have some paper and pencils to share.

 

What Not to Bring

Please do not bring your dog.

What is Provided

A seasonal still-life arrangement to draw or paint.

Water pots for your paints and paper towels.

Background music.

Light snacks.

Tea, coffee, tap water or something else.

Why

Inspiration

To help people tap into their natural creativity perhaps through:

Art

  • Doodling
  • Drawing
  • Painting
  • Sketching
  • Art challenges like Inktober, AHAtober and Nature Journaling Month (every June)

Writing

Final Thoughts

I’m doing this as I want to build community for hobby artists and journalers.

I initially invited five people I know who do art and dabble to the first event.

I was delighted that two lovely warm and compassionate friends could make it.

I believe there is a future for this group and time will tell.

Let me know if this is something that interests you.

Love,

Alison

Alison Hazel

Author Bio

Alison Hazel shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make.

She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Go here to read more about Alison’s story.

If you want to send Alison a quick message go here.

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How to Do Morning Pages

How to Do Morning Pages

Cameron’s Original Idea

I first came across morning pages as a technique in the glorious book by Julia Cameron, “The Artist’s Way” which was published in the nineties.

At the time, I had the tenth anniversary edition.

I was a younger woman then. I did practice her two main strategies of morning pages and artist’s dates for over a year. 

Now

Fast forward many years.

Recently, I once again got into the habit of writing morning pages.

I felt the need to have someone to talk to, and the pages helped get the angst out of my head so it can be seen and not be so scary.

Day Job

I work a day job in retail. At the end of the day, I feel drained after hours grappling with competitive co-workers, demanding bosses, and mean customers.

I sought to have a creative outlet of writing and drawing and I started practicing art and watercolor painting as well.

Once I began creating and publishing idea books for you, I could see the possibilities and it satisfied my drought stricken creative needs.

Benefits of Morning Pages

The benefits of morning pages are:

A Mind Dump

First thing in the morning. All that is buzzing around in your head can get out onto the page.

It clears your mind of the chaos and leaves room for the calm.

Dream Capture

You can capture dreams, or nightmares, from the night onto the page almost like a dream journal.

This practice helps to unpack ideas from your subconscious mind as well.

Challenging Inner Dialogues

You can write out the hard things that happened the day before which are trying to cloud and intrude into this fresh new day.

Difficult conversations that are running around in your head like, “…and then she said…” and, “I should have said…” can get out onto the page and you become free of them.

Build Good Habits

If you are trying to build good habits (or kill off some bad habits), morning pages will help with that too.

You can write down that you had a no-carb day, if you are doing keto, or perhaps that you did not have a cigarette or drink alcohol yesterday.

Then you can and write about how good you feel about yourself this morning. This is important.

How To Do Morning Pages

Notebook

  • Get a notebook. I use an A5 sized notebook.
  • I recently created a special morning pages notebook for use in my morning pages.
  • Note dates from and to on the first page as a record.
  • Lines help but so do doodles
  • Doodles are little drawings like emojis to help you express the words as well.
  • I’ve always only written on the right-hand page and drawn an image on the left-hand page. In my morning pages ritual, I write on both pages however, I start each new day on the right-hand side then flow over to the left-hand page. It is easier as I am right-handed. In total I use a two-page spread for each day’s writing.

Pen or Pencil

  • I like to use a black pen, but you can use any pen that you enjoy writhing with.
  • I embellish the pages as well with Washi tape typically along the bottom or the right-hand edge.
  • I like to add stickers that relate to what I’m talking about in my morning pages.
  • I draw a little artwork, usually with a black pen. Then I highlight it with one or two colours using my TomBow markers or you can use brush pens or crayons. I like to use neutral colors like beige and grey for this as well.
  • It is always a good idea to colour the background of your doodle with a light grey, soft pink or taupe to bring the image forward. You do not have to get too busy coloring the doodle as a few strokes usually suffice.

How Much to Write

Cameron suggests writing three pages. Personally, I write for about 15 minutes then I’m finished. I sometimes set a timer for quarter of an hour.

This time frame usually works out to one and a half page to two pages of writing in my A5 notebook.

Write until you are spent.

On somedays more words flow and on somedays less.

On a few days I don’t do morning pages at all.

Those typically turn into the days that I wish I had written my morning pages.

It comes to me later in the day when I’m still grinding about things in my head that I could have wrestled to the page first thing and so be shut off by now.

Aspiring Artist/Writer/Creative Activity

Creative Preparation

Do this the night before so you are ready in the morning.

  • In your journal open it at a fresh page
  • Lay a pen by its side.

Challenge Yourself

Make a challenge with yourself to write for seven days straight.

Write these words on the first page of your journal or morning-pages book.

“I will write morning pages every day for seven days. I will not judge myself for what I write. I will love the words that come from my head, for they are a part of me. I am a creative person. It is through love for myself that I write these pages.”

Creative Activity

Please do the following:

  • As soon as you wake up write what is on your mind.
  • Draw a little doodle.
  • Close the book.
  • Get on with your day.

Do this for seven days.

Know that you have started a self-care regime which will stand you in good stead for years to come.

Thank you for sharing a part of your day with me.

Love,

Alison

Alison Hazel

Author Bio

Alison Hazel is a mature woman who shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Go here to read more about Alison’s story.

If you want to send Alison a quick message go here.

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7 Morning Rituals for Artists and Creative People

7 Morning Rituals for Artists and Creative People

Author: Alison Hazel   –   Published: May 2022

Seven Morning Rituals for Creatives

These days everybody seems to be doing morning rituals or maybe its just that now they are called morning rituals, but we used to do these things anyway.

I gave this a lot of thought because preparation for my day is essential to me as well.

To be honest there are many things I do in the mornings, but there were only a few rituals that are important for me.

After giving this topic quite a bit of thought, I distilled it down into the seven main things that I practice, and which support my creative life and my self-care through art as a artist.

I’m going to share these seven things with you now and of course you may have other things that you do to support your creative life, but I just want to give you a glimpse into how I get organized mentally, physically and spiritually for the day.

Note

I wake up at around 5am each day. I do set an alarm for 7am, but I’m usually awake before then. When I wake up there is no immediate rush and I like to keep things calm.

1. Breathe Deeply

The first thing I do when I wake up before I even opened my eyes or got out of bed is breathe. Now of course this is quite a laughing matter because we’re all breathing all the time anyway, but the point here is that you are focusing on your breathing.

Whilst I’m lying there, I take ten specific breaths and when I’m taking these breaths, I’m doing a count. As I am breathing in one, two, three. I count to three breathing in and then when I breathe out, I count at the same pace for five – one, two, three four and five.

It’s actually on the exhale that the breath is longer and I fully empty my lungs. After you’ve done the very first in/out, on your second breath you really breathe in deeply because you must fill your lungs as they are now totally empty.

Fully breathe in one, two, three to fill up your lungs which is then followed by a controlled breathe out for a count of five. I do ten deep breaths this way. It is the very first thing I do.

2. Stretch in Bed

My second morning ritual is to stretch in bed. At this point I have opened my eyes, but I’m still in bed. I haven’t got up yet and I roll onto my back and go for a full body stretch.

I stretch my fingers wide, my arms wide, I stretch my toes wide, and my legs wide. I make like a big starfish lying in the bed which I hold and stretch. This is much like how a cat stretches.

I also pay close attention to stretching my spine so that my head, neck and shoulders are fully aligned. Now the reason I do this in bed is because I’m a little older than most people and I find it easier to get a full stretch when I’m lying down.

When I was younger, I would stretch standing up and put one foot on the counter and touch my toes and all of those kind of stretches. When I’m feeling strong, I might do that, but for my morning ritual stretch, I stretch in bed.

3. Make Your Bed

My third morning ritual is to make my bed. At this point I’ve got up, been to the washroom and come back. Ideally you want to open the covers and let your bed breathe because the moisture from you sleeping in it overnight needs to evaporate.

You never want to make your bed immediately you need to give it 10 to 15 minutes to air, so now I fling open my bedsheets let the bed refresh well. Now I go into the next step and make tea.

Do step 4 here

But when I come back from having the kettle on and making the tea I bring the tea back to my bedside and I will then make my bed. I straighten the bottom sheet I order the top sheet and I shake out the duvet. I plump up the pillows and prop them up against the top of the bed.

Always make sure that the opening of the pillow faces away from the door. Smooth all the sheets. I don’t go round folding hospital corners or anything like that and I do let my top sheet just hang as I don’t like it tucked in at night.

First Win of the Day

The point here is that you have already got a win when the bed is made, and your bedroom looks tidy now. At this point I do not put clothes, books or other junk on my bed. The bed remains almost sacred as this is a “made bed” and let’s celebrate it. Now I move on with my day to set the world on fire

4. Make Tea and Rehydrate

I drink tea first thing in the morning.  I may have a glass of water at my bedside for in the night and often I will finish that first.

The tea I love is Twining’s Earl Grey with 2% milk. This is a tea I’ve been drinking for thirty years and I still enjoy it. In fact, I almost never drink other teas except a green tea with lemon now and then.

Imake my morning tea and slowly drink it. By this time, I’m usually looking out of the windows at the new day. I love to catch the sunrise if I can, but this does depend on what time of the year it is. I take about ten minutes to sip my beverage.

5. Wash and Cleanse Your Body

Next is washing. Typically, I will have a hot shower, wash my hair and brush my teeth. However, if I did have a hot bath the night before I’ll skip the shower.

I’ll do my light makeup and towel dry my hair. I rarely wear perfume. I don’t wash my hair every day but do it about twice a week. Next, I get dressed and add jewelry and select a handbag and shoes to complement my look.

Evening Prep Tip

I usually choose the outfit that I’m going to wear each day the day the night before. This is a step during my evening ritual. Not having to decide what to wear every morning helps delay decision fatigue early in the day.

Hair

Next, I blow dry my hair and fringe which is by now only slightly damp. In this way I don’t overheat stress my fine hair too much. Now I am ready to start some creative work like writing, art or perhaps recording a video.

6. Clean and Tidy for 5 Minutes

I’m not the tidiest person on Earth. I can make a mess. I like to schedule five minutes right at the start of the day for a quick tidy up. For five minutes I do a quick cleanup as follows:

  • Sponge down the bathroom vanity
  • Put laundry in the washing machine
  • Wipe down the kitchen counters
  • Unload the dishwasher
  • Take out the garbage

Sunday Five Minute Clean Up

Once a week, usually on Sunday, I add the following to my cleanup routine:

  • Water my house plants and trim off any dead leaves or blooms
  • Wash and clean my hairbrush
  • Clean my jewelry
  • Polish my shoes

7 Art Journal for 15 Minutes

Now I sit at my desk and work in my journals. I have several journals and it depends on what I am doing later in the day where I will focus.

My current journals are:

I never know until I sit down which journal I will reach for.

To-Do-Today List

I have a jotter made from newsprint paper that is at my right-hand on my desk. This is where I note what has to happen each day. Appointments or shopping will go on here. Other things like emails to respond to and groceries or other things to buy will be written on this jotter. 

I usually prep my jotter the night before especially if there are activities which I have to do that I don’t want to forget. This jotter is also where I test my pens and markers before I write or draw in my journals.

Morning Routine Timeline

From waking up to finishing journaling is about 45 minutes to an hour.

The Workday Begins

Now I note the time on my jotter and begin work. I will plan a tea break around 11am and would typically have some avocado toast then as well. 

This is the first food I consume each day. It is a brunch and covers both breakfast and lunch. If I have a lunch date with family, friends or collaborators I will skip the brunch.

The next time I eat is around 5pm as I like to finish all meals for the day before it gets dark. This is a method from Doctor Mike Hansen which I’ve recently adopted. It supports good sleep and avoids overloading my body overnight resulting in indigestion and broken sleep so it can repair itself properly.

Bonus Tips – What to Avoid in the Morning

I have some firm rules for morning activities, and yes, sometimes I do slip up, but in general I try to stay on track. In the morning until 11am, I avoid all technology.

I do not:

  • Touch my phone
  • Text
  • Check emails
  • Turn on the TV
  • Listen to the (bad) news
  • Turn on the radio

 

I avoid all digital input to my brain and I concentrate on analog input and expressions only. This comes from studying or reading physical books, reading poetry, handwriting, journaling with a pen, sketching, painting, coloring, designing, creating art or other crafts like crochet.

Alison Hazel

Author Bio: Alison Hazel

Alison Hazel is a hobby artist and she shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.

Read more about Alison’s story.

Send Alison a quick message.

Perpetual Nature Journal 🌱 Setup and Cover Page

Perpetual Nature Journal 🌱 Setup and Cover Page

Inspiration The idea of having a Perpetual Nature Journal which is different to a normal nature journal is that rather than starting at the front and working towards the back, depending on where I went and what I saw, I will be focusing on one or two nature features...

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