Birch Trees Encased in Wax

This is the first time I've posted here at The Artist Babes, but I wanted you to see what I've been working on lately! 

This technique is century's old, there is nothing new. But this IS new, it's new to me. I've been thinking for years about painting with this golden glaze. I finally took the plunge and using my old candle making supplies from junior high, I melted wax in a double boiler (wait can you call an old Folgers coffee can a double boiler?), and with an old paint brush I began layering my birch trees with vintage sewing patterns. Creating an erethral space between each translucent layer.

 Encaustic painting as it's called, uses wax (traditionally bee's wax). It's been used to add texture and intrest, to encase a book page or a painting or when tinted used as paint.

This particular piece was done with melt and pour pellets from Walmart, I don't think century's ago they'd approve of using cheeeeap wax. But I thought I'd use it up before I upgraded to bees wax.

 And my brain has been a little dry lately, all of it used up for Spanish, work, family, home or holidays. So this evening of experimentation was just what I needed to feel refreshed and ready to take on all that this December has to offer.


Where has your creativity been lately? Are you crafting up a storm for the holidays?

Eggs!

I've joined C & C photography for a four-week workshop, and our first assignment was... eggs! Very timely for Easter! I thought I'd share my Spotlight on the White Egg to get you in the mood :-)

If you want to see all the amazing things that can be done with eggs and a camera, check out the blogroll in the sidebar of C & C! There are some very talented photographers and absolutely stunning images out there! Who knew eggs were so photogenic?

Spring Clean and Let Go

The other day I followed my intuition to walk into the bookstore. I'm usually drawn to the magazines when I'm in need of inspiration.  I happened across a new "Cloth, Paper, Scissors - Studios" magazine that had the most scrumptious photos about 25 different artists and their amazingly organized art studios.  If you are feeling a deep desire to reinvigorate your workspace, I highly recommend this issue!  There are so many creative ideas on how to rethink your space, including an article entitled "Clutter Out, Creativity In", that offers great suggestions.

One tip that I found especially helpful is when you are wanting to clear out some of your old work, take a digital photo, so you can keep a record of it, then you won't feel the need to hang on to the piece.  

That simple reminder helped me feel good about my decision to let this piece go: 

I've never really had a spot for it in my home, however, I couldn't bare to let it go because it is my one and only welded creation - an amazing accomplishment for someone who doesn't really like using big "power tools", let alone working with a flame!  I'm usually more drawn to "softer, warmer" kinds of medium, so I was surprised to learn how much I enjoyed welding.

Yet, ever since I cleaned out my basement this spring, letting go of things that no longer serve a purpose in my life, has become a whole lot easier.  And making space for new things has become an exciting new hobby of mine.  The more I let go - the simpler my life is becoming. That feels so much better to me these days than hanging on to things just "because".

So, thanks for allowing me this opportunity to share photos of my welded shelf.  I love it and it's time to say goodbye. 

What are you ready to let go of to make more space for your creativity?