OUT OF THE BLUE from Chantal...

Here is the beautiful handmade journal that Chantal sent my way for the out of the blue swap!!!! It is full of spirit and texture and inspiration!! The inside pages are beautiful high quality watercolor paper for me to create on...I have decided that this journal will be used starting on my birthday this year and will be JUST FOR ME!!!! A sweet place to honor the things that I feel blessed about! The name of this journal is COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS....and indeed it just makes you want to do that. Thank you so much for this journal Chantal, it was just what I needed and it will be treasured always. I printed out the Irish blessing and will place it on the back inside book cover....Thank you again from my heart.
To view some of the wonderful art that Chantal offers you can go to her etsy store.

Here is the Irish Blessing:

May your joys be as bright as the morning,
And your sorrows merely be shadows that fade,
in the sunlight of love.
May you have enough happiness to keep you sweet.
Enough trials to keep you strong.
Enough sorrows to keep you human.
Enough hope to keep you happy.
Enough failure to keep you humble.
Enough success to keep you eager.
Enough friends to give you comfort.
Enough faith and courage in yourself to banish sadness.
Enough wealth to meet your needs.
And one thing more: enough determination
to make each day a more wonderful day than the day before.

ARTFULLY YOURS<
Pattie

Sunday's Answer

It has been a long week....with the holiday right in the middle it has thrown me a little off balance, and I have not been to sure of what day it is!! LOL...I have had my grandson here over the weekend (2 1/2 years old) and he requires a lot of care, so I have not been in my studio working for several days...Actually as a grandmother (or MOMA as I am lovingly referred to as!) you forget just how much you have to do for little ones on a 24 hour routine and how tired you can get!! Not that it isn't fun, because it is such FUN! So my question is: will I be able to get back into the swing of things, to maintain my path and direction? This card has let me know that the ANSWER is YES!! And that letting myself take this little down time is the best thing that I could of done right now. That my creativity will flow that much better with this time of rest and retreat from the paint, and the paper and the pens! Like most artist I get a little upset with myself when I am not creating...GO..GO...GO!!!! And also, like most artists I know perfectly well that you must rest and refuel or you burn out quickly! So, with that being said from the voice of this card, I know that tomorrow is another day! Tomorrow is a day to begin again, with new eyes and fresh ideas. I hope that this card brings some words to you today. That you too can trust the process of retreat..rest..renewal...and that you remember that you are surrounded by the positive energy of creativity even when you are not creating in your normal way!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Sundays Answer

As usual on Sunday, I consult my cards for my highest intentions. I am having a lot of things changing around me...My good husband's last day of work was Friday, and that causes me to have mixed feelings. I have put myself out on some tree limbs with my art to see if I can reach the apple, and that is scary and exciting. So today, I needed to see if my cards would give me a sign that all is exactly as it should be...AND ......BLESSED CHANGE!!!!!! WOW...
This card assures me that the changes in my life are actually going to help me. That these changes are an opportunity to learn, grow and prosper. By staying the course, and embracing the change rather than fearing it, the direction will come. Love is stable and always provides for me no matter what. So as the Universe pushes me toward new horizons I know that I am qualified to handle it. I gave myself permission some 10 years ago to finally do my art..(.When I became an "empty Nester"!And I could no longer suppress the call to create! ) 6 years ago I gave up my DAY job to do my art full time...and now here I am putting myself out there and changing..Changing the way I think, the way I act, the way I believe.
Blessed Change!!!!!!!!! May you also be aware today as you look at this card of the changes that are going on in your own life...and view them as blessings. For everything is occurring for the best!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Out of the Blue for Deb

This is the last of the OUT OF THE BLUE SWAP and it is going to the hostess, my friend Deb, (or Bee,or Bae, or BAE_BEE!!) I wanted to make her something to inspire her and where she could look at it and perhaps place some of her wishes and dreams for herself on a soft pillow...where inspiration would fly on the wings of a butterfly and dreams could be held cushioned among flowers and bees!! So this is for you Deb....You continue to inspire and amaze me with your creativity!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Sundays Answer

Once again it is Sunday when I ask my Magical Mermaids and Dolphins Oracle Cards a question from deep within my soul...This is the card that I drew today...and it answered my question DEAD ON!!!!!!!!! I mean really!! There is a deep desire in me to use my art and my writings to touch people, to make them smile, to help them be the BEST that they can be. Now, I know that sounds a little new aged..but that is what my art and writings have done for me...They have allowed me to open up to ME! They have exposed to me a true sense of who I am and what I am doing! I dream bigger now, I laugh more now, and I am far more open than I have been since I was a child. It is this child like feeling inside, that causes me to want to help. Show people that the seriousness of life can be set aside, if even for a few minutes every day to bring a more joyous, playful wonderment back into our lives. It is my wish for all who enter here today and see this card and read this post that you take that moment...to just go within ask yourself the question and then wait for the answer with an open heart and be willing to receive what it brings....

Magical Mango Kitty!!

This is a piece of art that I did for Cheryl...She has her studio which she delightfully named the MAGICAL MANGO STUDIO...This kitty hopefully will adorn her wall to bring her magical wisdom as she creates!! This kitty started out as a rusty tin piece and was transformed...I love working on raw objects...tin, wood...It is such a wonderful feeling to make something come to life!! Enjoy this kitty Cheryl...You can see the before and after picture of Magical Mango Kitty at Dreaming in Color!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

OUT OF THE BLUE from NICI

I have received my first Out of the Blue art from Nici...It is this magical purse that has been designed with papers, pearlex, embossing powders and acrylics. There are fancy fibers that adorn the handle and a tassel!! But WAIT THAT'S NOT ALL!!!!!!! The inside was packed with hand made papers, a bag of embellishments with fibers and stamps and wonderful things to play with! And then there was a BEAUTIFUL blue stone hand made bracelet!! Now...just how lucky can one girl get!!!!!!!! Thank you so much Nici...I adore it and everything inside...and I am happy to have one wild child's special gift beside me!! Thanks for playing Nici...I will treasure this!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Square-Peg-People!!

I am feeling a bit like a celebrity.!!!!!!! Because ONCE again I have been written up! Karen Caterson of Square-Peg-People interviewed me for her newsletters earlier this year and well here it is!! If you do not subscribe to Karen's newsletter. She shares interviews with other creatives', books that are reviewed and tons of other information that keep us artists from thinking we just don't fit!!..Click the link and get a monthly dose of creatively with other like minded people...I tell you, its like a nice shot of espresso...Knowing that you are not alone in your creative world and that being a little left of center is quite normal for us right brain thinkers!! I met Karen at a retreat that I went to in 2005! Hey was it that long ago wild children??? Is it time to plan a reunion???? HUMMMMMM... Anyhow, I am honored to have been asked to be interviewed, and for being able to share a bit of myself and what makes me click...And with that being said...THANK YOU KAREN!!!!!!! Visit her at: www.square-peg-people.com
and read the latest newsletter at: http://www.square-peg-people.com/The_Encourager-SimpleMindedInspiration.html

Women In Art....

My friend, Chantal sent this link to me this morning....Oh, for all you creative women out there...for all the woman who are dreaming about being creative...for ALL WOMAN everywhere....This is beautifully done!! An inspiring!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUDIoN-_Hxs

Bernie Berlin/A Place To Bark..

For all who do not know about Bernie and her work of saving animals...take a moment and see what it is that this amazing woman does! Bernie is in need of help from anyone who is a lover of animals. She saves animals, houses them, vet bills, food bills, transportation bills. If 100 people sent $10 (a little more than a latte!) it would certainly help her to continue....Look within...and visit Bernie at: A Place to Bark! Or better yet just press the little DONATE button! It will do your heart good!!

Getting Ready to FLY!!!!!!!!!!!

I am ready to get the next OUT OF THE BLUE project off to Chantal, who lives in England! I met Chantal through the Artella community. She is a wonderful soul, an amazing artist, and she does Angel readings!! You can met her here..... Anyhow, I started this Angel Diva last fall, but she refused to be finished!! Wasn't sure WHY at the time! So she remained in a corner of my studio untouched for 8 months...Then this swap came to me, out of the blue!! and the Angel appeared and wanted to be finished for Chantal...I cut her open and she has a hanging message inside! This piece is for "SHE WHO FLIES" and it is full of GROWTH and FLIGHT...Chantal is branching her artwork off into a direction where she is now making cards...May this piece hold the secrets to her inner spirit, her wisdom, and her beauty as she tends to her spirit so it may grow as she continues to fly!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Artella 10 ...

The long awaited arrival of Artella 10 came to my mail box (via snail mail!) this weekend...This is a zine that is chocked full of inspiration from the front cover to the back cover!! I have the great honor of being one of 12 selected artist in this issue!! You can take a wonderful and inspiring walk through all of our studios and view the creative work and be part of our process. There is also, journal entries from each of us to give you a peek into our creative minds. And that doesn't even mention the articles and poetry and art INSIDE this zine! This issue (and not just because I am in it!!) made me laugh, made me cry, and made me jump for joy knowing all the talent that is being expose to the world. Marney and her staff have outdone themselves with this issue. If you do not get it YET, run your little fingers over the link and become a member to this wonderfully supportive group of creative beings. I promise you will not be disappointed! www.artellaland.com (just press the Mangozine Tree)
I for one am going outside to sip some ice tea and read, linger, and be inspired by all the pages...Oh and did I mention GOODIES...Lots of FREE goodies packed inside and on the site!! What are you waiting for?!?!?!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

EMPOWERMENT!

There are changes going on around me that I have no control over in the slightest! My good husband was informed that his entire complex where he works (computer work!) will be outsourced to India by the end of the month!! Now, this is a pretty scary thing for people rapidly approaching their 60's with mortgages, and bills to be paid. So I turned to my Oracle cards today, (as I do every Sunday) and asked for a sign...This card was the most powerful as my hands lightly touched each card...When I turned it over, I was told that I was SAFE...Safe to be powerful!! That by using my power instead of worrying I can continue to be not only gentle but powerful and still be effective!!!!!!! It truly was a card that wanted to surface and reaffirm that I am on the path that I am suppose to be on!! Causing deep, down within my being SMILES!!!
May your day start out and end with you also standing in your POWER!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Breast Cancer Tokens...

My friend Cheryl, gave a jewelry making class at her local Breast Cancer Coalition to those living with cancer and cancer survivors. When she put out a call for anyone of her friends to send along a small gift for the participants. I knew that I wanted to make something, but I wasn't sure what...I pondered and remembered that when I was dealing with my own illness I use to carry with me a smooth shell that my father use to carry in his pocket...He called it his worry stone, and you could feel the indentation where he rubbed his thumb over and over it (as he went through his own radiation treatments) After his passing we found these worry stones everywhere, and my sister and I both took one. Months later when I was going through my surgeries my stone was with me...I kept it in my bathrobe pocket, my pant pocket, my jacket pocket! So with that in mind I wanted to make tokens that these loving souls could have to keep for them self. A token that was small enough to carry concealed in their pocket but big enough to carry the love, faith, belief,and hope that was sealed into each and every one! This was a project that brought back many thoughts for me, but most of all it brought back the idea that we as women MUST reach out in whatever way we can to help other women when they most need it! So with that being said, see where it is that your heart directs you...volunteer your skill, your art, your time to something that calls to you...It will do your heart good!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Leap Of Faith/ Out of the Blue Swap for Nici

This is the piece that I did for Nici for the Out of the Blue Swap that Deb started!! It is going out in the mail today...Almost done with Chantal's piece and Debs piece!!

Nici…

LEAP OF FAITH….

Comes to you with great bounds of happiness, cheer and joy!

He carries a heart with his leap to inspire you and for you to listen

To your inner stirrings….May he grace your studio wall with love,

Hope, Peace and Joy….

Enjoy…

Pattie

BEING PUBLISHED!!!!!!

As many of you know I am on a quest this year to be published in more national magazines. I have been checking all the CALL FOR ARTISTS in the magazines that I love to look at and be inspired by....This was a call for artist put out by ART DOLL QUARTERLY which they challenged artist to make dolls out of gourds. These 2 were my submissions, and they have contacted me and they will be published in the fall issue of the magazine. I am so excited, honored and feeling joyous about this FIRST STEP! Now, I have never made dolls out of gourds before, but someone gave me a bag of gourds that has been in my garage for the past 5 years! I always wanted to do something with them, but originally thought of bird houses!! I went through the bag and decided that these gourds were the ones that spoke to me!!
My heart is in the Garden...was the first one that I made...The face came and then her bodice just sort of painted itself...because the gourd would not sit straight I opted to place it on the grapevine wreath and embellish it....The hat is made from felt and I just love her whimsical look!!
A Pair in a Chair...was inspired by a photo of my sister and I when we were young!! I originally thought I would use the photo's of our faces, but these gourds wanted to speak for them self! So I took doll parts and made the legs and once they were completed placed them on a little wooden chair that I had painted up....
This has been a year of challenges in all sorts of ways for me and I am so happy to have this first soon to be published piece under my belt....Just makes me so totally aware that the POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks to all who visit and view and for all the loving support and inspiration! Share in my happiness.....
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Set Your Sights Higher!

Today as I am trying to pick up my messy studio to get ready for MANY projects...I decided that I should pick a card from my Magical Mermaids and Dolphins Oracle Deck..(given to me by Chantal!!) Anyhow, I asked the Universe the question: AM I TRULY ON THE RIGHT PATH?
This card was my answer...I have heavens reassurance that I am ready. That I should reach for the stars and receive the gifts with open arms....This is a very important card, as I have been putting things off, only partly playing with some of my projects, taking new projects on when I have not completed others...So YES...I do need to increase my standards and expect more for and from myself!! Yes....I need not settle!! So...it is very important that I get this space UNCLUTTERED! Because when it is as cluttered as it is right now it tends to confuse me and makes for confusion as to where I should start and where I should finish!! So I clutter myself more and more. So thank you Universe for telling me this, reminding me that today I should visualize and dream about my true heart's desires. That would be my wish for all today also...let fear and worry be released and throw your doubts to the wind....It all just slows you down!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Challenge To Play!!

Our friend Deb Silva of: www.creativelyamused.blogspot.com

sent me this challenge....

Want to do something fun?
I was feeling like sending a little piece of art to someone today, just for fun, when I had this, (totally unoriginal), idea, and it goes like this; I will select three artists and send them this post explaining that I'd like to send them a little piece of art for my "Out of the Blue Mail Party", (they can always refuse to give me their address - lol). They in turn would send out a piece, (all different or three of the same), to three artists, one being the original sender, and two new artists etc...and off course post everything to their respective blogs! (Does that make sense?)

SO WITH THAT BEING SAID...

I would like to challenge the two of you to PLAY along.

You would each make 3 pieces of art....(anything you want!) Send one to me and challenge 2 other players for your other pieces...

DO YOU WANT TO PLAY???????????
Chantal.... www.celestinemusings.blogspot.com
Nici... www.artshapedworld.blogspot.com
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Birthday Girl

My sister was celebrating her birthday and what do you give to someone after so many years!!?? Well, I remembered this photo of her that was taken at my grandma's house with her dog FIFI....Anyhow, there are few photos left of us as kids (long story of flooding basements, leaky attics, and moves!!) So here is the birthday girl all decked out in her crown with her fairy wings and little dog!! She stands a top her own little birthday cake. Hopefully she will look at this every day and remember to treat herself very special...Happy Birthday Sister of Mine!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Casey and Matt

Here is a picture of the new parents to be with the painting I did for the baby to be born in July!!
The really funny thing about this picture is that they have chosen to decorate the baby's room in stars and moons!! Now, I did not know this ahead of time! I have known Casey since the day she was born!! And it is a standing joke with her Mom, Lori and I that she is secretly my child, because we have so very much in common...When I was painting this picture, the thought that Casey would love it was there with every stroke!! And both her and Matt do!! One happy family!! Casey was so sure that I made something for the baby that I made sure that the painting was well hidden and the very last gift to be opened. I had wrapped up a little blanket and pair of pj's that had a little giraffe on them. (Casey had a little giraffe that she carried around with her forever, infact she still has it!!) The shower was wonderful, good food, good conversations, good company!! Blessings to all....
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Design Question?????????????

I have a question?????????????
Would you wear this graphic on a t-shirt?????????????
The challenge was to ONLY use 6 colors which was really hard for me...But please let me know what you think...I am curious to know...Thanks...
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Off Line for a week!!

I haven't forgotten to post....I am going to be off line for a week as I am going out of town...
till I get back, may you be artful!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

7 Random Things About ME!

Ok...so my friend Bae tagged me and I am to write 7 random things about myself:

1. I am on what I like to call the"GET KNOWN NATIONALLY 2007 TOUR" (sending out lots of "artist calls")

2. I am almost bald and when I am completely bald I am going to have GLAMOUR SHOTS done by my friend Denise who is a fabulous photographer!)

3. I do not like Tuna Fish.

4. I question myself all the time!! (but I do not let it get to me to often!!)

5. I love deeply and hard, wearing my heart on my sleeve, so sometimes I get hurt!

6. I love ice cream and often eat it for dinner.

7. I do art every day, because I know no other way to live my life!

So there you go...7 random things about me...now I am off to tag others!! TEE-HEE

Neverland!

This is a picture of a wonderful 4 by 4 piece of altered art by Helene from France!! It is a beautiful turqoise blue background with embossed silver and white...An adorable fairy ... It is wonderful and I just can't wait to frame it and hang it in my studio...It reminds me of a song that I so love by Michael Franks, called Wonderland...It was a great pleasure to swap with her and if you have not yet gone to her blog or website, do so....She is a very deep, honest, and soul artist who is making her way though her journey of life, with one piece of art at a time. Thank you so much Helene...I will treasure it! http://www.helene-deroubaix.blogspot.com
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Freedom From Self-Improvement Day

Jennifer Louden
Creator of Freedom From Self-Improvement Day
www.thelifeorganizer.com

---

31 days of art...Lettering

I am getting ready to send out my 31 days of art project swap and realized that I haven't posted a lot of them....Here is a study in lettering....I like to write on things all of a sudden...But, I am trying to perfect a style that I like ...I personally like the WISH one....It is difficult to remember that perfect penmanship award that I won in the 4th grade!! LOL....But it is slowly coming back to me!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Fish Fly!!!!!!!!!!

It has been a while since I last posted any art that I have been working on! So here is a baby shower gift that I have almost completed...Still have a few little details to work on and then I will seal it...I am thinking that a metallic orange frame would be really cool on this piece. The total size is 16 by 20 and it is on a flat canvas board...Now, I usually do not use flat canvas, and while doing this piece I remember why...but when the vision came to me, it was the only board I had and being somewhat impatient (LOL) I had to start it right away....Thus...canvas board!! I hope all who venture here today, enjoy this piece as much as I do....cause it sure does make me HAPPY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Same prompt...seen differently!

someone was saying, a room with two candles, about shadows, someone watching, began to believe, notice, city,someone dancing, a wall, the night would not end, music was over, saying,
stars, how small they were, nothing, ahead, dandelion..



She had hit a wall during the day,
and now the night would not end...
There was something about shadows,
that felt like someone was watching.

She noticed how small they were
there in the city of her making...
Nothing seemed to be ahead and
the music was over.

Someone was saying BELIEVE.
and then there was someone dancing
in a room with two candles.

She smiled and repeated
Stars and dandelions...
Dandelions and stars...

She began to believe.

Writing Prompt...

I was sent this writing prompt via THE MUSE IS IN newsletter today....And thought I would share what I wrote....It is a lot of fun to see what you come up with when given a series of words, or sentences..

someone was saying, a room with two candles, about shadows, someone watching, began to believe, notice, city, someone dancing, a wall, the night would not end, music was over, saying, stars, how small they were, nothing, ahead, dandelion

At first there was nothing

In the night that would not end.

She saw the shadows flying

Against the wall, and

how small they were there

In the city of her dreams.

She felt someone watching and

Then someone saying

GO…..

Go………….

Ahead…

There in a room with two candles

She saw someone dancing

The music was over.......

And once again she began to

Believe.

Believe….In dandelions

and stars.

May you also believe in dandelions and stars...HAPPY MAY DAY TO ALL!!!!!!!!!!

Artfully Yours,

Pattie

Sunday..Sunday...

Here I am on a beautiful day ... INSIDE...Posting on the blog!! It has come to my attention today that I spend a lot of time alone! Now, I am aware that as a creative this is a somewhat solitude life that I have chosen to lead...but this machine also, has some magical hold on me!! I am checking E mails...posting blogs...reading blogs...searching sites...keeping up! So today...I GIVE MYSELF PERMISSION to have fun!! YUP! Going out of the house...away from the paint...away from the machine...and I am going OUTSIDE! So that is my wish for all today who enter here....GET OUTSIDE OF YOUR SPACE and HUG A TREE...Smell freshly mowed grass...listen to a bird singing a sweet song....And dream of all the things that you have going for you....BE AWARE of your surroundings and ENJOY! I for one am off and running!! See you later...gator!! TEE-HEE!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Soul Collage

Have you heard about Soul Collage??? Have you ever wanted to try it??? I can tell you from first hand experience that IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE! My good friend Cheryl is a wonderful soul who has been doing and learning from the Soul Collage for years. NOW she teaches it...If you live in the Chicago area, here is a wonderful opportunity for you to learn from a woman who will guide you with loving hands to the core of yourself. Take a peak at her website....and here below is a little bit about Cheryl herself!

www.acapellasoul2.blogspot.com

Cheryl Finley:

I am a SoulCollage® facilitator that has had the honor of training with the originator of the SoulCollage® process, Seena Frost, M. Div., M.A. I love the creative and enlightening practice and process of SoulCollage®. My soul sings when I share this amazing, intuitive process which paves the way for creativity, inner-discovery, self-acceptance and personal growth. I look forward to introducing the wonder-filled experience of SoulCollage® to others! I invite you to view my workshop schedule, as well as my Cards at the "AcapellaSoul" links on this page; depending on what page you're reading this from, my cards might be seen on this page as well. For questions, or to subscribe to the AcapellaSoul Newsletter, which will be published later this year, please e-mail me -- acapellasoul@gmail.com

QUOTE

The less baggage we carry, the quicker we will be successful.

Carrying baggage, one must walk and rest, walk and rest...

Traveling light means being able to run if we want to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My friend Brenda sent me this quote today....
I think it is just wonderful! I for one am willing to run with a clean pair of underwear and a toothbrush!! Can't get much lighter than that!!
BE LIGHT!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Posting!

A week has gone by so rapidly that I barely know it is Monday and all of a sudden it is Friday!
So many things have been going on this week...With all that is happening in the world one has to stop and pause, to reflect on what it is that we can do to heal and mend the broken spirits around us. Even sometimes our own. It is with our creativity that we can touch someone, stir an emotion, or they can feel ours. Life is a series of lessons ... some we learn, some we have to repeat many times till we learn them. I have been very aware of some of my lessons this week. Trust, and responsibility, loving, and believing not only in myself but in others. Sometimes it just doesn't seem fair or right, but somewhere in that mix is a lesson. I for one have learned this week to reach out...reach out and touch someone you love, touch someone who is in need of some TLC. Believe that it will make a difference that you do this, not only for the person but also for yourself. In learning lessons we grow...just like tending to a new plant in order for it to produce beautiful flowers you must water and love it. So it is with all of us. We are all in need of TLC...you can ask for it, you can give it and you can receive it as long as you are open to do so. So with that being said, my wish is that each and everyone who visits here knows that I hope that my creativity, my words, and my wishes touch them in a way that makes their lessons easy to see. I appreciate you and send warm and loving wishes to all...
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Happy Anniversary!!

Today I am celebrating my 22nd wedding anniversary! So here is a picture of the happy couple!!
Love is the most amazing thing isn't it?! It is so complex and yet so simple...Over the years of being married to my good husband Michael, we have gone thru many things! He is an extraordinary man who took on one extremely independent woman and 2 young children some 24 years ago!! (Got to love a guy just for thinking about it!) We have dealt with each of us having cancer, teenagers, TROUBLE, collage, empty nest, depression, money, no money, jobs, changing jobs, no jobs!! Well, I know that you get the picture: LIFE! But thru it all, the good, the bad and sometimes the ugly we have hung tight! We have allowed each other the space that sometimes married people need. He has honored my artistic path, been a huge supporter and has helped me to develop myself into the person I am today! So HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to my good husband and myself...TO LOVE...to the faith that we have in each other to be exactly who we are with out fear!! And to all who view today....Remember to always be yourself...it makes life that much sweeter for those you love and who love you!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

FLY!

It seems as if I have not posted any art on here in awhile! So here is a piece that I did yesterday that is flying off to a very special someone (SHHHH....it's a random act of kindness!) I really like altering things, but I have a difficult time with using photos and pictures from magazines. Now, mind you I LOVE the way that other people do these and it always looks so wonderful to me, but for whatever reason when I do them, they just don't feel like me! So...I have started doing more of them by painting my own small pictures and then placing them on the canvas with other embellishments...So I am altering with my own paintings and this feels JUST FINE! In the past when I have done altered book swaps I did use magazine faces with my paintings but about 90% of the page was painted and embellished in some sort of way. So here is the first in the series of butterflies ...each with have one word on the canvas...Each with be embellished with one special element and then will be ready to hang as the sides are painted too! These are 5 by 7 but I may do some 8 by 10 pieces too...I have yet to try to do any waxing techniques but I have the pellets just haven't tried them yet....So with this post I am NOW back in the paint...On my list I have 4 more deadlines to complete..All have to go out in the mail in May...so I better have at it and start the completion stages!! Wishing all a deliciously creative day!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Happy Keester!

This picture came across my machine several times this week, and every time it did I just had a good giggle! Happy Easter to all and Happy Passover also...Remember to honor your child like spirit today and always!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Article in ARTELLA DAILY MUSE!

April 3rd, 2007

What can you do to help pets in need

Print this article

Living a Good Life!

A Place to Bark


By Pattie Mosca


"At the close of life the question will be not how
much have you got, but how much have you given; not
how much have you won, but how much have you done;
not how much have you saved, but how much have you
sacrificed; how much have you loved and served, not
how much were you honored."

- Nathan C. Schaeffer

I found this quote today, and just had to share it with all of you. Because this is an article that lives this quote to the fullest extent!

"LIVING A GOOD LIFE" is a painting I did in honor of a dog named Blue that my son rescued from an abusive home. We all so love our pets, but there are people who do not treat them as the beautiful spirits that they are. So what could an artist from upstate New York do about this? And what can you do?

One day while surfing the net (you know those times when you click and click and click!). I was directed to a wonderful site called A Place To Bark. It was here that I was introduced to an artist named Bernie Berlin!

Well, it tugged on my heart so much because of the amazing work this woman is doing to rescue animals. She works non-stop in her effort to save animals, along with her husband and friends. The number of animals she has taken in grows and grows. She moved to Tennessee in December of 2005 and has taken care of, housed, transported, and found homes for over 300 animals. The sad thing is that since moving, she has seen too many animals being needlessly put down.

Bernie and her husband live on 20 acres and have dreams of building a shelter to help foster the animals and keep her passion of saving them alive. So she put out the call for Artists to share their gifts of art to help save the lives of these beloved creatures. She offers the donated art on eBay auctions to help underwrite some of the out-of-pocket expenses she incurs doing this work.

So I HAD to donate! I had to help spread the word to others! Sometimes we think that one person cannot do anything to change how the world is. But Bernie is proving this wrong! She is an amazing spirit with a heart that is pure love for these animals.

So what can you do?? Run your fingers over this link and go to the auction! Get a great piece of art, and support a woman's efforts to make the world a better place!

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZaplace2bark

If you want to do MORE!! Well, Bernie and her animals can always use things that we have or can send: Old towels, blankets, baby blankets, toys, collars, leashes, food, microscope slides, muzzles, and cat litter, for instance. Every little bit helps!

Learn more about Bernie and the work that she is doing by going to: http://aplacetobark.blogspot.com . I dare your heart strings not to be pulled! As for me . . . I am off to create something to honor Bernie and her work. I am feeling good today that I was able to help in my small artistic way a cause that is bigger than me. But before I do that, I am going to kiss the top of all my kitties, whisper in their ears how much I adore and love them, and thank them for being such a big part of my life!

Artfully Yours, Pattie

---

Pattie Mosca is a true believer in the power of creativity for happiness and bliss! As a surface designer, she does original and custom pieces that are collected by clients worldwide. Pattie paints furniture and other objects, as well as mixed media and art journals. She has the honor of doing her creativity daily! She lives in Rochester, New York, with her good husband, Mr. Mike, and their three cats. She is also a certified Muse group facilitator and is studying to be a Kaizen-Muse coach. You can contact her at: pat1999@frontiernet.net or see her blog at: www.pjmosca.blogspot.com .

Doing Your Heart Good!

"At the close of life the question will be not how
much have you got, but how much have you given; not
how much have you won, but how much have you done;
not how much have you saved, but how much have you
sacrificed; how much have you loved and served, not
how much were you honored.""

- Nathan C. Schaeffer

This quote came to my mailbox this past week...and it came right around the time that I was sending out the dog picture and had just come off of the Gilda's Club fund raiser. I do quite a few donations every year of my art work and time to causes that I feel passion for. The amazing thing about doing this, is that it does so much for me! I am a firm believer in passing it on. You know doing one good deed when one has been presented to you. I am honored to be part of these fund raisers. This one for Bernie was a delight, because really nothing was guidelined or had to be juried...She even asks for children's art! But the biggest thing that came my way after doing this piece was that the response from Bernie hit me square in the heart. The kind of feeling that you get when you first fall in love, the arrow piercing and you knowing that you have fallen! I have fallen...Bernie is the most delightful woman to talk to, tireless in her efforts to rescue these animals to such an extent that it consumes her life! So I urge you after you read this to pause for a moment and whisper the love for your own animals in their ears...Give the a great big hug for all the unconditional love that they give you! And once you have done that then run your mouse over one of the links here and see if there is anything that you might like to do, to do your heart good!! http://aplacetobark.com
and for the auction: http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZaplace2bark
Your smile will be your reward....Oh, and watch out for the arrows!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Living A Good Life...........FINISHED!

Here is the finished piece titled " Living A Good Life"....It is an acrylic painting: size 16 by 20 which is a standard size and can fit in an off the shelf frame of the buyers choosing!! It is a fun, happy and colorful piece that has metal flower embellishments, a dog collar with jewels and a sweet heart that hangs, and a metal butterfly that dances on the Blue Dog's nose! The bubbles in the background are acrylic with a pearl over lay...I am sure once the dogs have been rescued by Bernie and taken to their new homes, this is how they must feel! ENJOY!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Living A Good Life....

This is the beginning of a painting that is 16 by 20 that I am doing for Bernie Berlin's auction.
Bernie rescues dogs and the auction helps to off set her vet and housing costs! Go and check out the auction! There are many of your favorite artists on there!! Just press this link and off you will go...BID OFTEN! BID HIGH!

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZaplace2bark

When I have completed the picture I will post it...Probably tomorrow...Anyhow till then I hope that BLUE (named after the dog that my son rescued!) makes you happy and finds you living your good life!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Flower Mandala

This mandala was done by Lori Pilla! She did it with prisma pencils! It is so beautiful and alive with color! It just makes me feel warm and happy from the inside out! Lori has been coming to my site for a long time now, and I want to honor her here! If you have not had the pleasure of doing a mandala yourself, you should try it!! Just make a circle, get quiet with yourself and draw from the center out...from the outside in..from whatever point you choose. Mandala have no structured starting point. The whole idea of them is just to let your self create...I have seem them done with total geometric designs, I have seen them done with random abandonment, I have seen them done with painted pictures inside, I have seen them done on photo shop by altering a photo...What ever you choose to do...make the mandala yours! It is a calm and relaxing thing to do for those of us who love them....I dare you to try it!! You just might find that you like the freedom it gives you and the feelings it evokes with in. Thank you Lori for sharing this with me today...It makes me feel like SPRING and HOPE and WARMTH, but most of all it makes me feel HAPPY!

HAPPY SPRING!

Yesterday was the first day of spring, and although upstate NY is getting there, it isn't where I would like it to be yet!! Ah, Mark Twain once said..."If you don't like the weather in upstate NY, just wait a minute, it will change"..I believe this statement to be SOOOO true here!! But, the birds are singing and I hear the geese returning, while the snow is seriously melting! So, I have to assume that is a good sign! I have been working on things in the studio, but all have been on a fairly large scale and so I have not been able to post them...I still have 6 days to complete on my swap items and will get back to them ASAP! I have joined in several other swaps, sometimes I do bite off a little bit more than I can chew...BUT...I do so love the challenge!! So, if I start to complain in any way, shape or form, please remind me of this post!! LOL.... I have to get back to the creative area, (not that this isn't ... it is just that, well, like anyone else...this machine can totally suck me in and all of a sudden 2 hours has passed!..LOL) So, my wish for all today is that you continue to honor your creative process, whatever it may be and SMILE....SPRING IS HERE!! (this is a picture of a small cross stitch that I did as a birthday gift for a friend, but it is very spring like!!) YES...I do needle art too!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

TEST!

Somehow, I lost my comment section...So, I have been playing with this blogger site and lets see if it is back!!
YIPPEE!!! And I want to give a wonderful virtual hug to Chantal who walked me thru being able to get my posts to be able to link you right to the places I am trying to direct you without having to cut and paste anymore!! What an ANGEL....Thank You Chantal....
http://www.celestinemusings.blogspot.com/

Spring!!

The first day of spring is really only 3 days away, and here in upstate NY we are experiencing one heck of a snow storm...Now, just to let you know how bad it is outside, I have been in my pj's all day because I knew I was not going anywhere...I locked myself in, and had coffee, created art, talked on the phone...and then did it all over again!! LOL...It has been a blessing of a day. This piece is two fold...one, it is for the 6 by 6 swap and two, it will be used as a visual online for a daily newspaper hopefully next month. Now again, if you have not had the pleasure of experiencing this wonderful on line creative newspaper you owe yourself the 2 FREE days to experience it! You can go to: http://www.artellawordsandart.com/members.htmlThis community of artist are supportive and this site has so much to say and so much to do! I urge you to take a look...I do not think that you will regret it!! Now go to your space and make art!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie
PS...HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY TO YOU!

Partners

I realize that I have not posted here in a few days...I have been working on an entry mural of swirls and that has tired me out, so I do my affirmation pages, but I have taken a week off from the swap..Hopefully I will get back to that next week as I only have a week left to do on it before I start to do the envelope...But, I was reading on a friends blog about the positive / negative things that we say to our self..you know the "devil/angel" the "good/bad" ..I use to be one who lived for great stretches of time with that behavior, then I had a coach who took me on a visualization where the 2 of them met and talked and told each other what it was they needed from each other and how they were there to help each other ... I did this affirmation page that night and I feel it almost all the time now...When I do start to tip a little to the other size, I stop..take a deep breath and say, what is it that you are trying to say to me? Because I am only hearing the negative...and then I listen!! It is usually something simple like you are trying to hard..its late go to bed you will do better work tomorrow...and yet all I heard at first was...this is terrible..you call yourself an artist...you must be crazy!! So to all who understand this positive/negative thing...you know we really aren't crazy!! And all we have to do is take a deep breath...let it out...and then listen to the balance of the two.
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Bloom!

I know that we had to change the clocks ahead an hour..but, my body and my brain still says it is only 11:30!! So this is my swap for the 11th which is Sunday, no matter what the post date says!! LOL...This piece is watercolor with sharpie outline....I have a few more days to go and then the swap will have ended for me, although it does not have to go to NYC till May. We have to decorated an envelope that also will be swapped...This is pretty exciting and I am way ahead of the game...which for some reason is unusual for me!! Maybe I am getting better at this...I have another special swap that I am doing for an altered box, and I did start to do some of that design...and I am working on an altered book...plus those looming deadlines!! But most of the sketches are done, and I will pick up supplies this week to get them ready...APRIL deadline, and JUNE deadline!! Have custom pieces done that have to be delivered...Hopefully I will do that this week...Hey, a girl likes a paycheck...to buy MORE ART SUPPLIES! Actually I want to go to Florida to visit a soul sister.(I think that is wish #4!)..So I am saving my pennies!! All is good here in paint land tonight...I bid everyone a wonderful evening full of stars and dreams...
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

For the 10th

Watercolor,acrylic,pencil and sharpie...Oh, and I limit myself to 10 to 15 minutes for these pieces! Still have today's to work on, but I am on and off this machine at random today, as I am trying to play catch up with the mundane too..you know, laundry, cleaning!! The not so important...Important stuff!! LOL
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Swap!

I am going to be playing catch up with my swap pieces...what with everything going on here!! LOL...anyhow, this piece was for the 9th so I have a couple more pieces to download...one at a time!! This was done with watercolor paint..like I said before not a medium that I am very comfortable with..but, I am continuing to try it...I have way more control over the acrylic paint so I guess that is why I like it!! Plus I can get a more vibrant look!! I know I am using the cheapest watercolors known to man, and I know that you are only as good as your tools allow you to be...the one thing that I am having a lot of fun with is cutting out the little squares and putting a small picture behind them...So here it is...KEEPING HER EYE ON HER STAR!! And that would be my wish for you too today...even if it feels uncomfortable, TRY IT! You just might find something you like about it!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Caged Heart

Swap piece for yesterday....I do not really use watercolor...It is a medium that I am not all that comfortable with..so seeing as that is one of the guidelines to this swap here is a piece that is mainly water color! I cut an opening in the paper and taped another piece of paper to the back...drew the cage and heart on with pencil...used the watercolors and then used the acrylic paint to do the cage itself...I sort of like the way it came out and will continue to experiment with watercolor...I actually came across some watercolor paper I have, which works much better than my drawing paper!! You know that old saying "you are only as good as your tools allow you to be!" So, I will try some more pieces and perhaps by the end of this swap feel a greater love for watercolors!! And that is my wish for you today, that you try something new...don't rule it out because it is uncomfortable at first. Things are often worse before they get better..or at least that is what they say!! You just might end up finding out you actually do like what it was that you feared!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

AIRBOURNE COCKTAILS!!

Oh NO!!!!!!!!!!! I have been watching my grandson and my daughter, both sick with the flu since Monday!! They finally went home today and just when I thought I would be able to sit and do my art without any interruption...BAM! I think I just might be getting the flu...Off as my friend Debs says, to take some more airbourne cocktails!! LOL!!
But take a trip to the side bar and check out my other blog... http://www.artbyluminosity.blogspot.com or http://www.explorethecolors.blogspot.com
Both have things on them to inspire with words and color!
Hopefully I will be back soon!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Art Power # 2

One of the guidelines of doing this swap is to try something new!! These last two pieces are a test for me on several levels...One: NOT TO BLACK LINE..I tend to like to black line everything...I think it is that coloring book visual that I like so much..Two: NOT TO USE SO MANY COLORS...This is really just a test to see if I can do something that has more of a theme..I see in a lot of the art magazines that they tend to do different calls for one pallete art...So I decided I would start out with 3 cause one might just drive this color hound a little crazy!! So, there, I tried something new 2 days in a row with this theme...Done with that and I will be back to the COLOR board today!! (because actually this piece is from yesterday, and I just forgot to post it!) Our house is full of people with the flu, so it has been a difficult couple days! My wish today, is that everyone is healty, happy and living in color!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

heART Power!!

Swap piece for today...I started this at 6 this morning!! Anyhow it is done...What I wanted to do with this piece is use a 3 color palette ...So I choose, red, orange and yellow...It is done with acrylic with prismacolor pencils overlaid...I threw in a little black before I realized I had done that...but oh well, such is life...Anyhow, I was on a site with some friends and someone had posted something they were working on and WOW...Red, orange and yellow background...You just got to wonder how those vibrations work!! LOL...So that is my wish today for all who venture here...Have yourself some GOOD...GOOD..GOOD VIBRATIONS...now get to your space and create something!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Art Passion

Swap piece for today!! I have this thing for flying hearts!! Not sure why, but so much that I have one tattooed on my back, that my son designed! (he is an artist and a skin illustrator) He drew me a picture for mother's day one year and now it is on my back!! I love my tattoo...One thing about them that I find, is that people either love them or they hate them...Me...I LOVE THEM!! I got my first one at 25 ( a birthday gift to myself)...I have several others, but all done at milestones in my life...My son did the heart one for me when I completely loss my hair..it was a reminder for me that my beauty is in my heart...this coming from a former beauty queen!! LOL But to get back to the art piece...As usual it is done with acrylics with a watercolor wash background....I keep trying other things, but I always come back to my good old acrylic paints!! I started with them and continue to love the way I can use them on just about anything I choose to paint!! My wish for all who venture within today is that they too fly on the wings of their dreams and know that their beauty comes from within!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

The Elegance of Time!!

I decided to post this piece here also...I did this piece for an auction for our local Gilda's Clubhouse. If you do not know about Gilda's please check it out to see if you have one in your area...www.gildasclub.org This is a wonderful place for those living with cancer, cancer survivors and their families. It is a safe place where they can come to take all sorts of FREE classes and do fun activities! It was started by Gilda Radner while she was having cancer treatments and realized that there was no where people could go to LAUGH...They are always looking for volunteers to teach art classes, watch the kids in their children's play room (Noogie land, which I had the wonderful opportunity to paint the murals on in our local clubhouse) Or just to stuff envelopes...Give them a call...you will be HAPPY that you did and it is a great feeling of gratitude giving something back to your community. Lets hope this clock brings some BIG BUCKS for them!! The spirit of this clock is to be aware of the elegance of time...one moment..one minute...one hour at a time..For it is our present!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

BELIEVE!

Ok so I am addicted to this machine and could not go to bed till I checked to see if the piece was dry!! LOL...I see by the time that I am posting on Sunday..(I lose all track of time when I get in the studio...the only clock is here on the computer..I do not have one anywhere near where I work..because I do not want one!!) So this is Saturday's piece..the one below this is Friday's!! Now that I have cleared that up in my head...This piece was inspired by H...(she knows who she is!!) It has to do with the feelings that we as artistic people get when we TRY to make our self fit into those square and round pegs....IT JUST IS NOT POSSIBLE...Now, we can choose to beat our self up about this, we can choose to be a rebel, or we can choose to shine and Fly....That is what I do as often as possible! I am happy (or really becoming Happy) with being a little right of center...makes me feel sort of special!! And I do believe that it is my destiny to FLY just like I know it is H.'s destiny!! And I hope that it is your desire and your destiny too...OK, Good Night Mrs. Kalabash where ever you are!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Find The Key...

This is another swap (are you tired of seeing them yet!!) Only 13 more days to go..Wow it is amazing how fast 31 days go by!! Anyhow this is the second one to do with "where is love"?...To find the key to love you have to look to your heart...and open it WIDE! There can be fear involved but without opening or unlocking your heart you will never really know what it is to give and receive...This piece was done with acrylic paints both regular and metallics with a wash of oil pastel swirls and hearts in the background, and sealed with matte medium....Oh, and it was the piece from yesterday the 2nd of March...I will post todays when it dries...off to slumber land..till then!! Sweet dreams to all who enter here..and may your heart be open to the wonder of love!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Right In Front of YOU!

This is a swap piece that was inspired by my daughter!! She is a single Mom of a 2 year old and was asking the sage old question: where is love? The little guy was running circles around her leg at the time and I answered...Right in front of you!! It made me think about how sometimes we are looking for something that we can't even see is standing right there in front of us! We long for something, and don't even realize that we already have it! I kept this piece simple and with only a few colors, because actually that is how I felt when I gave her the answer...It is simple, sometimes we just don't realize how simple it is, and we try to make life so much harder than it needs to be. This piece is acrylic and the background is done with a texture magic compound that I raked with a brush and then used oil pastels on and rubbed with gold paint after... It was done for March 1st, but it took a while for the background to dry!! So, that is my wish for you today...that you look out the window of your soul and see all the love that surrounds you! It is always there even when you are looking somewhere else!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Valentine Swap!!

Today has been a day filled with my grandson, so not a lot of art got done...I am finishing my affirmation page and I will get that posted...I finally have figured out how to use and download pictures from my new little machine thing, and I wanted to share this picture I did for a Valentine Swap. We could make a valentine any way we wanted to...I decided that I wanted to make one that could be kept out all year long! I drew and painted the bird on some card stock and then cut it out, I did the background in acrylic paint, and used the cool printed jute that my friend Melissa sent me from NEW YORK CITY (from another swap!!) Anyhow, then I found those valentine letters and knew I had to use them...and the hanging heart...I use the words: FLY ON THE WINGS OF YOUR DREAMS on almost everything I do...sometimes you don't see them because they are written on the back...Anyhow, Carol got this piece and I hope she enjoys the sentiments of it forever!! My wish for you today is if you can get in a swap do so! It is fun and you get to be creative, and you get something wonderful via snail mail instead of a bill!! LOL...
Artfully Yours,
Pattie

Pair in a chair

I have a new machine for my photos...and it is taking me a while to figure out how to download them...But here is the photo I promised in the beginning of the week for the other doll that went off to California for the magazine review board....A Pair In A Chair!! ENJOY!

Night Time Art in a Bottle

This is a swap piece that is done with a watercolor background...acrylic and sharpie!
This is what my dreams look like...colors and swirls and flowers..so i painted this picture with them in bottles...so that I can pour them out whenever I like!! LOL..
My wish today for all would be that they too could pour out their dreams into the every day life that they lead....wouldn't that just be a magical thing!!
Artfully Yours,
Pattie