The Crafty-Girl™

New website & portfolio

2009-11-20T22:05:00.000-08:00

My new art & photography website can be found at
kelly angard.com

one...life.

2009-05-18T08:24:00.000-07:00

"one"
© 2009 kelly angard

You say
Love is a temple
Love a higher law
Love is a temple
Love the higher law
You ask me to enter
But then you make me crawl
And I can't be holding on
To what you got
When all you got is hurt...
- lyrics by U2

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

love is the answer

2009-05-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

Every once in awhile, I see something which makes every single part of me exclaim, "yes, yes, yes...I so get this! This is exactly what I have been trying to convey through my photography, my artwork, my writing!" This exclamation of "yes!" not only brings about an abstract, interpersonal connection with humanity at large and a spiritual alignment with individuals whom I have never met, it truly reinforces my belief that we are not as alone as we think we are...we are all truly one. And that no matter the question...

"the answer"
© 2007 kelly angard

Love IS the answer!
Here is what came my way today via Gaia, and inspired this post...

Author, speaker and founder of The Foundation Educating for Peace, Isha is a unique, grounded, modern-day visionary. Her book and newly-released movie, "Why Walk When You Can Fly?" reveals her personal journey of transformation and awakening. Her passion for horses and hawks conceptually expresses the nature, spirit and possibility which lies within each of us...one which resonnates so deep within me.

"spirit"
© 2007 kelly angard

"possibilities"
© 2007 kelly angard

Possibilities...new beginnings.
There's so much in the power of now...in this very moment.

"have wings. must fly."
© 2007 kelly angard

love your mother!

2009-04-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

"treeline"
© 2009 kelly angard
The Art of Light

paying tribute to mother earth...
Happy Earth Day!

my dear, talented friend, Carrie, from Original Hardware, passed on a beautiful poem that is just perfect for today. Here's an excerpt:

Listening to Spring,
by Macrina Wiederkehr

How quietly the earth breathes forth new life.
How eagerly the sun bleeds forth the spring.

I am listening.

I am listening to seeds breaking open,
to roots growing strong beneath the ground
to green shoots rising up from winter wombs.
I am listening to thorns blossoming,
to barren branches laughing out new growth,
to wildflowers dancing through the meadows.

I am listening.

I am listening to the growing
in the garden of my heart.
I am listening to my heart
singing songs of resurrection.
I am listening to the colors of life.

I am listening.

I am listening to winter
handing over spring.
I am listening to the poetry of spring.

I am listening.

the nature of art

2009-04-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

"human nature"
© 2009 kelly angard

as an artist, there are some pieces i create which are so personal, so poignant, so evocative, i find it difficult to share them with the world when they are finished. as much as a part of me wants to share my favorite and most meaningful work, i end up keeping these works to myself...waiting for the time i feel enough distance from them, separated from them personally. i wait until i feel i can put "them" — and therefore, myself — out there for the world to see. this one took a year and a half...

for some, this may simply be an image of two anonymous people captured in a moment...nothing more, nothing less. and that is fine; it is what it is to the viewer.

but for me, this work, this image speaks of so much more.
for me, this image is a bank of a thousand thoughts...a catalyst for heart-breaking stories or song lyrics yet to be written.
for me, it whispers to a curious mind...i want to know more.
i want to imagine more.
i want to create more.
i want to be more.

wild horses

2009-04-13T05:47:00.000-07:00

"Grow Strong"
Absence makes the soul grow stronger.
©2009 kelly angard

All I want is the wind in my hair
To face the fear but not feel scared

Ooh, wild horses I wanna be like you
Throwing caution to the wind, I'll run free too
Wish I could recklessly love like I'm longing to
I wanna run with the wild horses
Run with the wild horses

- lyrics from "Wild Horses" by Natasha Bedingfield

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

the wisdom project

2008-11-07T08:11:00.000-08:00

WISDOM...a film by Andrew Zuckerman
Inspired by the idea that one of the greatest gifts one generation can pass down to another is the wisdom it has gained from experience, the wisdom project, produced with cooperation from Archbishop Desmond Tutu, seeks to create a record of a multicultural group of people who have all made their mark on the world. This comprehensive portrayal of such a profound and global group is an index of extraordinary perspectives.

his story = history

2008-11-05T10:59:00.000-08:00

and his story is our story.

Any people anywhere, being inclined and having the power, have the right to rise up,
and shake off the existing government, and form a new one that suits them better.
This is a most valuable - a most sacred right -
a right, which we hope and believe, is to liberate the world.
- Abraham Lincoln

© kelly angard 2008

"nothing can stand in the way
of the power of millions of voices
calling for change..."
- Barack Obama

Above images taken October 26th, 2008, amongst 100,000 people, Denver, CO.

music to my ears

2008-02-04T19:39:00.000-08:00

The Yes We Can Song
by will.i.am

I was sitting in my recording studio watching the debates...
Torn between the candidates
I was never really big on politics...
and actually I’m still not big on politics...
but 4 years ago, me and the black eyed peas supported Kerry...
And we supported Kerry with all our might...
We performed and performed and performed for the DNC...
doing all we could do to get the youth involved...
The outcome of the last 2 elections has saddened me...
on how unfair, backwards, upside down, unbalanced, untruthful,
corrupt, and just simply, how wrong the world and "politics" are...

So this year i wanted to get involved and do all i could early...

And i found myself torn...because this time it’s not that simple...
our choices aren’t as clear as the last elections ...last time it was so obvious...
Bush and war vs no Bush and no war...

But this time it’s not that simple...and there are a lot of people that are torn just like i am...
So for awhile I put it off and i was going to wait until it was decided for me...
And then came New Hampshire...
And i was captivated...Inspired...

I reflected on my life...and the blessings I have...
and the people who fought for me to have these rights and blessings...
and I’m not talking about a "black thing", I’m talking about a "human thing" me as a "person"
an American...
That speech made me think of Martin Luther King...Kennedy...and Lincoln...
and all the others that have fought for what we have today...
what America is "supposed" to be...freedom...equality...and truth...
and thats not what we have today...we think we are free...
but in reality terror and fear controls our decisions...
this is not the America that our pioneers and leaders fought and died for...
and then there was New Hampshire

it was that speech...like many great speeches...
that one moved me because words and ideas are powerful...
It made me think and realize that today we have "very few" leaders...
maybe none...but that speech...

it inspired me...it inspired me to look inside myself and outwards towards the world...
it inspired me to want to change myself to better the world and take a "leap" towards change...
and hope that others become inspired to do the same...
change themselves...change their greed...change their fears...
and if we "change that" then hey"...we got something right...???...

1 week later after the speech settled in me...I began making this song...
I came up with the idea to turn his speech into a song...
because that speech effected and touched my inner core like nothing in a very long time...
it spoke to me because words and ideas are powerful...
I just wanted to add a melody to those words...
I wanted the inspiration that was bubbling inside me to take over...so i let it..
I wasn't afraid to stand for something...to stand for "change"...
I wasn't afraid of "fear"...it was pure inspiration...
so I called my friends...and they called their friends...in a matter of 2 days...
We made the song and video...
Usually this process would take months...a bunch of record company people figuring out strategies and release dates...interviews...all that stuff...but this time i took it in my own hands...
so i called my friends sarah pantera, mike jurkovac, fred goldring, and jesse dylan to help make it happen...
and they called their friends...and we did it together in 48 hours...
and instead of putting it in the hands of profit we put it in the hands of inspiration...
then we put it on the net for the world to feel...

When you are truly inspired magic happens...incredible things happen...
love happens..
(and with that combination) "love, and inspiration" change happens..."change for the better"
Inspiration breeds change..."Positive change"...
no one on this planet is truly experienced to handle the obstacles we face today...
Terror, fear, lies, agendas, politics, money, all the above...It’s all scary...

Martin Luther King didn't have experience to lead...
Kennedy didn't have experience to lead...
Susan B. Anthony...Nelson Mandella...Rosa Parks...Gandhi...Anne Frank...
and everyone else who has had a hand in molding the freedoms we have and take for granted today...
no one truly has experience to deal with the world today...
they just need "desire, strength, courage ability, and passion" to change...
and to stand for something even when people say it's not possible...
America would not be here "today" if we didn’t stand and fight for change "yesterday"...
Everything we have as a "people" is because of the "people" who fought for
change...and whoever is the President has to realize we have a lot of changing to do
I'm not trying to convince people to see things how i do...
I produced this song to share my new found inspiration and how I've been moved...
I hope this song will make you feel...love...
and think...and be inspired just like the speech inspired me...that’s all...

Let's all come together like America is supposed to...like Japan did after Hiroshima...
that was less than 65 years ago...and look at Japan now...they did it together...they did it...

"We can't?...
Are you serious..?..
WE CAN!!!
Yes we can...
A United "America"...Democrats, Republicans and Independents together...Building a new America

We can do it..."TOGETHER"

Thank you for reading and listening...
will.i.am

Please visit www.yeswecansong.com

the creative mind

2008-01-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder how creative you really are? Before you answer this question, know that being creative doesn’t necessarily mean you can paint, dance or write music...rather creativity shows itself as a way of thinking, processing and seeing things.

Besides the fact that I've always been fascinated with the workings of the brain, I've often wondered where creativity (not talent) really comes from; i.e., nature or nurture? After taking the Brain Type Test (created by the Art Institute of Vancouver) I gained some valuable insight about the way my brain processes, learns and categorizes information.

The brain is composed of two hemispheres, known as the left and right hemisphere. While each hemisphere has unique functions, which one side performs and the other does not, both hemispheres possess the ability to analyze sensory data, perform memory functions, learn new information, form thoughts, and make decisions. By the time we are two years old, one hemisphere begins to dominate our decision-making and creative processes.

The left hemisphere specializes in analytical thought. It is responsible for dealing with "hard" facts such as abstractions, structure, discipline, rules, time sequences, mathematics, categorizing, logic, rationality, and deductive reasoning. It is also responsible for details, knowledge, definitions, planning, goals, words, productivity, efficiency, science, technology, stability, extraversion, physical activity, and the right side of the body. Left hemisphere ability is the predominant focus in school and society.

The right hemisphere specializes in "softer" aspects than the left hemisphere. The right hemisphere is responsible for intuition, feelings, sensitivity, emotions, daydreaming, visualizing, creativity, color, spatial awareness, and first impressions. It is also responsible for rhythm, spontaneity, impulsiveness, the physical senses, risk-taking, flexibility and variety, learning by experience, relationships, mysticism, play and sports, introversion, humor, motor skills, and the left side of the body (the old belief that left-handed people are more creative does hold some scientific credence). The right hemisphere also has a holistic method of perception that is able to recognize patterns and similarities and combines those elements into new forms.

The Brain Type Test consists of 54 questions and can be completed in about 10 minutes. After completing the test, you will be given your free left and right brain score. You will also be given a small detailed paragraph explaining the characteristics that are associated with your each side. The detailed evaluation explains the exact nature of your brain's halves' ability to communicate with each other and how that communication affects your life in how you learn, remember, process data, and contemplate issues.

Here are my results:

Left Brain: 41%...........Right Brain: 59%

Left-brained percentages:
54% reality-based
32% linear
27% sequential
21% logical
17% symbolic
14% verbal

Right-brained percentages:
44% fantasy oriented
43% intuitive
38% nonverbal
37% concrete
34% random
30% holisitic

While I wasn't surprised to see that I'm more right-brained than left-brained, I found the breakdown of information in each hemisphere incredibly useful for explaining a number of things...like why my mixed media work tends to always demonstrate a sense of order amongst chaos.

Take the test...and see if the results shed some creative light for you!

please note: While the test was created using extensive and detailed research, the purpose of this tests is (1) for education and general knowledge, (2) to provide a fun and useful tool and (3) promote a greater understanding of creativity.

defining moments

2008-01-09T07:46:00.000-08:00

"dawn's early light"
© 2007 kelly angard

Big decisions lie ahead for each and each and every one of us...for our country.

The 2008 political race has just begun...and so has the questions. There's an undeniable excitement and desire for change in the air, and it looks as if the 2008 Presidential elections will be one of the most exciting political races in history!

Find out which candidates are most aligned with your views and opinions by taking the Select-a-Candidate Survey developed by Minnesota Public Radio. The survey is non-partisan and not meant to pick the candidate for you...rather it is designed to inform the public of the various stances each candidate makes.

Education is a human right with immense power to transform.
On its foundation rests the cornerstones of freedom,
democracy and sustainable human development.
- Kofi Annan

No matter your political party or views...participate in this year's election;
...be a part of history!

• • •

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

Constant Change...

2008-01-07T13:53:00.000-08:00

If there's one thing we can always count on...it's change.

After years of my back supporting me through three decades of competitive sports, the births of two beautiful children and more difficult situations than I can remember...the time came for me to give my spine the care it needs to carry me through the rest of my life. So...a few months ago, I had some serious hardware added to this vital yet delicate structure...6 screws and 4 rods were attached to my lower spine during a double level spine fusion surgery.

I am now doing really well...feeling a little more like myself each and every day. I think this is going to be a long journey...longer than I'd like...but I'm committed to returning to my previous strength and activity level. I know I'll come out of this experience healthier and stronger...and one centimeter taller!!! :)

I've come to realize that when it comes to our personal challenges, as long as we keep putting one foot in front of the other, we are moving forward...no matter how small or slow the step.

Our bodies are amazing...
Medical technology is incredible...
and
Life is beautiful.
:)

Happy New Year to you all...

shadowland

2007-09-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

shadowland
© 2007 kelly angard

"Across the broad continent of a woman's life falls the shadow of a sword. On one side is all correct, definite, orderly; the paths are strait, the trees regular, the sun shaded; escorted by gentlemen, protected by policemen, wedded and buried by clergymen, she has only to walk demurely from cradle to grave and no one will touch a hair of her head.
But on the other side is all confusion. Nothing follows a regular course..."
- from the essay "Harriette Wilson" by Virginia Woolfe

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

the secret

2007-07-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

the answer
© 2007 kelly angard

Don't you love it when the truth is so wonderfully simple?

available through
my art & photography website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

remember

2007-05-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

forget-me-not
© 2007 kelly angard

Tell me and I'll forget;
Show me and I may remember;
Involve me and I'll understand.
Chinese Proverb

prints available here

Exhibition Press Release...

2007-05-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

I am so very excited and honored to be a part of this exhibition...

light touch

2007-05-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

We don't exist unless we are deeply and sensually in touch
with that which can be touched but not known.
- D.H. Lawrence

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

pen & ink illustration

2007-05-17T16:38:00.000-07:00

"rose drops"
© 2007 kelly angard

pen & ink illustration over ink abstract wash
size: 11"x11"

prints available at my etsy store

cross my heart

2007-05-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

We promise according to our hopes and perform according to our fears.
- François de la Rochefoucauld

i have a feeling this quote will be responsible for many pages of writing today...

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

every object, every being...

2007-05-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

"Barely There"
© 2007 kelly angard

Hear blessings dropping their blossoms around you.
- rumi

prints available at through my website.

i found the perfect quote for the photo art (above) in this gorgeous journal i received from
Leah through the Create a Connection April swap:

© 2007 kelly angard

Thanks so much Leah...I love everything about this journal!

ambiguous horizon

2007-05-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

Everywhere the human soul stands between a hemisphere of light and another of darkness; on the confines of the two everlasting empires, necessity and free will.
- Thomas Carlyle

theme: on the street
for:

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

art every day...5/7 & 5/8

2007-05-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

"organized chaos" & "scripty"

This month I'm going back to basics:
May...pen & ink

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

note to self...

2007-05-09T07:02:00.000-07:00

"doubt. full"
© 2007 kelly angard

Isn't it the moment of most profound doubt that gives birth to new certainties?
Perhaps hopelessness is the very soil that nourishes human hope...
- Vaclav Havel

I found this post at My Success Company via Circadian Shift.

Ten Rules for Being Human
by Cherie Carter-Scott

1.	You will receive a body. You may like it or hate it, but it's yours to keep for the entire period.
2.	You will learn lessons. You are enrolled in a full-time informal school called, "life."
3.	There are no mistakes, only lessons. Growth is a process of trial, error, and experimentation. The "failed" experiments are as much a part of the process as the experiments that ultimately "work."
4.	Lessons are repeated until they are learned. A lesson will be presented to you in various forms until you have learned it. When you have learned it, you can go on to the next lesson.
5.	Learning lessons does not end. There's no part of life that doesn't contain its lessons. If you're alive, that means there are still lessons to be learned.
6.	"There" is no better a place than "here." When your "there" has become a "here", you will simply obtain another "there" that will again look better than "here."
7.	Other people are merely mirrors of you. You cannot love or hate something about another person unless it reflects to you something you love or hate about yourself.
8.	What you make of your life is up to you. You have all the tools and resources you need. What you do with them is up to you. The choice is yours.
9.	Your answers lie within you. The answers to life's questions lie within you. All you need to do is look, listen, and trust.
10.	You will forget all this.

monday musings...A New Perspective

2007-05-07T07:32:00.000-07:00

"head over heels"
© 2007 kelly angard

“Her job was to turn everything upside down to see what might fall out.”
- David Leitch

There are so many thoughts running through my head lately, I find it difficult to form a cohesive thought, let alone paragraph. Rest assured, it's all good...because great things happen when we are able to look at life and people and experiences from a different perspective.

I dare each of you to gain a new perspective of something that is utterly familiar: sit in a different chair in your living room, drive a different way home from work or look at your face in the mirror with one eye closed. Better yet...go outside, lie in the grass and look up toward the sky...and tell me what you see!

progression

2007-05-03T07:36:00.000-07:00

33 Ways to Boost Productivity

2007-05-02T07:24:00.000-07:00

In light of yesterday's post and my desire to organize my mind and my closet, this post from Personal Development for Smart People, seems to be exactly what I need to help me stay on track...I especially love #33! :)

33 rules to boost your productivity:

Super Slow. Commit yourself to working on a particularly hideous project for just one session a week, 15-30 minutes total. Declutter one small shelf. Purge 10 clothing items you don’t need. Write a few paragraphs. Then stop.
Dailies. Schedule a specific time each day for working on a particular task or habit. One hour a day could leave you with a finished book, or a profitable internet business a year later.
Add-ons. Tack a task you want to habitualize onto one of your existing habits. Water the plants after you eat lunch. Send thank-you notes after you check email.
Plug-ins. Inject one task into the middle of another. Read while eating lunch. Return phone calls while commuting. Listen to podcasts while grocery shopping.
Gratitude. When someone does you a good turn, send a thank-you card. That’s a real card, not an e-card. This is rare and memorable, and the people you thank will be eager to bring you more opportunities.
Training. Train up your skill in various productivity habits. Get your typing speed to at least 60wpm, if not 90. Learn to speed-read or PhotoRead. Develop your communication skills.
Software. Take advantage of productivity software to boost your effectiveness. Lifehacker recommends new items every week.
Zone out. Enter the zone of peak creativity, and watch your output soar.
Denial. Just say no to non-critical requests for your time.
Recapture. Reclaim other people’s poor time usage for yourself. Visualize your goals during dull speeches. Write out your grocery list during pointless meetings.
Mastermind. Run your problem past someone else, preferably a group of people. Invite all the advice, feedback, and constructive criticism you can handle.
Twenty. Take a piece of paper, number 1-20, and don’t stop until you’ve listed 20 creative ideas for improving your productivity.
Challenger. Deliberately make the task harder. Challenging tasks are more engaging than boring ones. Compose an original poem for your next blog post.
Asylum. Complete an otherwise tedious task in an unusual or crazy manner to keep it interesting. Make phone calls using pretend foreign accents. Fill out government paperwork in crayon.
Music. Experiment to discover how music may boost your productivity. Try fast-paced music for email, classical or new age for project work, and total silence for high-concentration creative work.
Scotty. Estimate how long a task will take to complete. Then start a timer, and push yourself to complete it in half that time.
Pay it forward. When an undesirable task is delegated to you, re-delegate it to someone else.
Bouncer. When a seemingly pointless task is delegated to you, bounce it back to the person who assigned it to you, and challenge them to justify its operational necessity.
Opt-out. Quit clubs, projects, and subscriptions that consume more of your time than they’re worth.
Decaffeinate. Say no to drugs, suffer through the withdrawal period, and let your natural creative self re-emerge.
Triage. Save the lives of your important projects by killing those that are going to die anyway.
Conscious procrastination. Delay non-critical tasks as long as you possibly can. Many of them will die on you and won’t need to be done at all.
TV-free. Turn off the TV especially the news, and recapture many usable hours.
Timer. Time all your tasks for an entire day, preferably a week. Even the act of measuring itself can boost your productivity, not to mention what you learn about your real time usage.
Valor. Pick the one item on your task list that scares you the most. Muster all the courage you can, and tackle it immediately.
Nonconformist. Run errands at unpopular times to avoid crowds. Shop just before stores close or shortly after they open. Take advantage of 24-hour outlets if you’re a vampire.
Agoraphobia. Shop online whenever possible. Get the best selection, consult reviews, and purchase items within minutes.
Reminder. Add birthday and holiday reminders to your calendar a month or two ahead of their actual dates. Buy gifts then instead of at the last minute.
Do it now! Recite this phrase over and over until you’re so sick of it that you cave in and get to work.
Inspiration. Read inspiring books and articles, listen to audio programs, and attend seminars to keep absorbing inspiring new ideas (as well as to refresh yourself on the old ones).
Gym rat. Exercise daily. Boost your metabolism, concentration, and mental clarity in 30 minutes a day.
Lovey dovey. Romantic love will spur you on to greater heights, if for no other reason than to persuade your partner you aren’t such a loser after all.
Troll hunt. Banish the negative trolls from your life, and associate only with positive, happy, and successful people. Mindsets are contagious. Show loyalty to your potential, not to your pity posse.

still waters run deep

2007-05-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

"reflecting"
© 2007 kelly angard

i've got this yearning to simplify.
everything.
wish it was as easy
to organize my thoughts
as it is my closet...

don't be thinking this would be an easy task.
you haven't seen my closet.
:)

monday musings...Give Yourself Credit

2007-04-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

art every day...4/30
"looking"
© 2007 kelly angard

I recently realized that June 1st will mark two years of blogging...two years! When I started my blog, I didn't know anyone else who had one, nor did I have a "plan" for my blog; I did what I usually do...I just jumped in and started swimming! Since I was feeling nostalgic, I read over some of my earliest entries and felt like I was looking back in a old journal; amused at what I decided to post and surprised at some of my early insights. I thought this entry was worth re-posting because no matter how long we've been creating art (or blogging for that matter!), it's easy to take what we do for granted. Maybe now is a good time to take a break...and give yourself a bit of extra credit!

Do you give yourself enough credit for what you do?
Creating art requires us to think outside the box, whether it’s about the objects or elements we select, how we use our supplies, or the way we assemble it. It requires us to creatively combine unrelated thoughts and materials with nothing but a vision of what we think we’re going to create or believe we can create. It takes a leap of faith.

Do you give yourself enough credit for what you create?
I’m not talking about how good of an artist you are, I’m talking about the fact that you sit down and face the blank canvas, paper, etc.! Creating anything takes courage; it takes belief in yourself to know something, even if you feel that you don’t know enough. I think it says a lot about the human spirit of each and every person...despite the unknown, we know we must move forward, no matter the fear or anxiety, we must create art…and so we take a leap of faith.

Do you give yourself enough credit for what you know?
We show our humility and our sense of humanity when we put our art out to be seen and make ourselves vulnerable to others’ opinions and criticism. We are at our most fragile when we display what has come from inside our hearts and minds, and we show our belief in humanity when we do; believing most will be honest but not brutal. It takes courage to be able to hear what someone has to say and not have it reflect how we feel about ourselves. We must believe in ourselves enough to know what we know, and we must believe in ourselves enough to take that leap...

**********
Now it's time to give yourself credit for all that trivial knowledge you learned in 5th Grade!!!
Here are the answers to "Are you Smarter than a Fifth Grader" quiz I posted last Monday...
1. C
2. B
3. A
4. B
5. meter
6. C
7. C
8. A
9. 36
10. inside
11. Katmandu
12. B
13. A
14. 1,000
15. true
16. C
17. B
18. C
19. 150 degrees
20. A

(i missed five...#4, #11, #13, #14, #20)

art every day...4/28 & 29

2007-04-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

"I must..." & "Nature Study"
© 2007 kelly angard

art every day...4/26 & 4/27

2007-04-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

"grounded" & "little bird"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: aerosol paint, found & patterned papers, pen & ink, letter stickers,

art every day...4/24 & 4/25

2007-04-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

"nonsense" & "fibonacci"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: found & patterned papers, pen & ink, watercolor crayon, metal tape, decorative stamp

art every day...4/22 & 4/23

2007-04-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

"happiness" & "play"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: photograph, patterned & found papers, acrylic paint, transparency, pen & ink, Sharpie pen

i've been making these every day...just behind scanning & posting! :)

art every day...4/20 & 4/21

2007-04-28T15:16:00.000-07:00

"unknown" & "a la mode"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: found papers, alcohol inks, watercolors, watercolor crayons, pen & ink, acrylic paint, letter stamps, rice paper

Email Issues!!!

2007-04-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

The delightfully enigmatic saying "we don't know what we don't know" couldn't be more appropriate to describe what happens when we have email problems. And it looks like I'm having big ones...more than the small one's I've had off and on for the past few months...
I don't know what I'm not getting.
I don't know what is not going out.
...that is until I do happen to get a sporadic email or a message on my flickr site from someone who is wondering why I haven't responded to them!!!
ugh.

Needless to say, my Qwest email & online service stinks!!! Yesterday, for example, I was able to go online in the morning for a bit...then entire online went down. And then went back up...for about an hour...then down again for entire afternoon/evening. I sent a few emails out early in the day...but I have no idea if they arrived at their destination.
So...I called Qwest customer service. After spending no less than 2.5 hours with six (yes SIX!!!) people on the phone, I still cannot pull emails off of my server...and they are trying to tell me it's because I'm missing a piece of equipment at my house! huh? I've had this service with Qwest since I moved here over six years ago...what could possibly be missing on and off throughout the day...or week...or month??? They tell me they are happy to send out a technician...IN A FEW DAYS!!!

And to make matters worse, I had a few commitments this weekend...but could not get to my email to print out the directions and/or phone numbers to even call these people! [i'm so sorry Pat & Leslie... :( ]

So...if anyone has not heard from me in the past few weeks, please, please, please, send me an email through my blog here (i've gotten a new email account for here) and I will be in touch soon. That is if I don't lose more brain cells yelling at the friendly and oh-so-apologetic Qwest people...
Not pretty. Not pretty at all.

Friday Faves...

2007-04-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

"color my world"
© 2007 kelly angard

Inspiration is everywhere!!!
Here's a few things which have caught my eye, spoken to my muse or piqued my curiosity...

the blissful pixel has some great Photoshop links as well as beautiful digital scrapbook art...

life*fever features what's hot around the world in fashion, art, trends and design...

the style files showcases something I can never get enough of: stunning style & delicious design!

Create a Connection is a unique, warm and welcoming place to connect with other creative spirits. Creative blogger, artist and visual journalist Melanie McMullen is a woman who is living her passion...and willing to share and encourage other creative spirits to do the same! I love this part of her bio:

It may be this instant or in ten years
Or in ten lifetimes, but your outcome is inevitable
What you must do, must Be
To Live Your Experience of Heaven

Be Alive
Believe
Be You

August 2005 ~Melba McMullin

The mission statement behind Create a Connection says it all: The mission of the Create a Connection blog is to exchange knowledge and energy, to embrace each other and new ideas, and to expand participation and our relationships.

So I was honored when guest host and writer/author Angie Pederson interviewed me for it's weekly Interview Tuesday column last week. Many thanks to Angie for thinking of me and for the thoughtful interview questions...and to Melba for providing us creative souls with a place to connect and learn and exchange ideas!

and last but not least...
The Blog of Me by author/writer and marketing entrepreneur, Angie Pederson. Angie combines her talent for writing and blog marketing with ideas and resources, intended to make life and writing easier, more productive, and more meaningful. She is a pioneer in the field of personal journaling before it became the "thing" to do, authoring three books, "The Book of Me", "Growing Up Me", and "The Book of Us" and someone I've had the pleasure to meet and correspond with over the past few years...this is one site you'll want to bookmark for sure!

mixed media art...

2007-04-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

"bird of paradise"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media on 11"x17" watercolor paper

monday musings...Elementary Information

2007-04-23T23:58:00.000-07:00

I didn't have a chance to post this earlier...I was licking my intellectual wounds after my daughter gave me the "Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader?" test she found in the Sunday newspaper.

I'd like to think that I am smarter than a fifth grader...but ummm...let's just say that my test score let me know that, in no uncertain terms, I'm not. Oh...you think that's funny? You think you're so smart??? Well then let's see how you do!!! :) Take the test yourself; the questions are below. Do it with a friend...or a spouse...just don't do it with anyone between the ages of 10 and 16 or you'll be shamed into seclusion, too. And NO cheating...no internet help!!! Feel free to post your answers here; I'll post the correct answers at the end of the week (and my results, too!).

I'm off to study some more...I want my gold star, dammit.

1. How many continents are there in our world?
a. 6
b. 5
c. 7
d. 4

2. What is the capitol of Missouri?
a. Kansas City
b. Jefferson City
c. St. Louis
d. Missouri City

3. What is the process by which plants make their own food?
a. photosynthesis
b. respiration
c. reproduction

4. Who lived at Mesa Verde?
a. the Cheyennes
b. the Anasazi
c. the Aztecs
d. the Mayans

5. Which is longer: a meter or a yard?

6. What is onomatopoeia?
a. a words that is opposite of another word?
b. a word that means the same thing as another word?
c. a word that sounds like what it means (buzz)?

7. Who was the King of England during the American Revolution?
a. King Henry VIII
b. King Lear
c. King George III

8. Does the word capitol mean:
a. a building that houses the seat of government
b. an upper-case letter?

9. 27 is three-quarters of what (number)?

10. Name the adverb in this sentence: Dad coaxed the stray dog inside.

11. What is the capitol of Nepal?

12. What is an autobiography?
a. A book an author writes about another person.
b. a book an author writes about his/her life.
c. a fiction story about a person's life.

13. Children typically have how many baby teeth?
a. 20
b. 24
c. 28

14. How many meters are in a kilometer?

15. True or False? A bat is a mammal.

16. How many ounces of water are in 3 pints?
a. 12
b. 24
c. 48

17. What is another name for the North Star?
a. Alpha Centauri
b. Polaris
c. Sirius

18. In terms of land area, what is the second biggest state?
a. Alaska
b. Florida
c. Texas
d. California

19. The supplementary angle of a 30 degree angle is?

20. What do you call two words that have the opposite meanings?
a. antonyms
b. synonyms
c. homonyms

escape

2007-04-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

At the heart of all beauty lies something inhuman,
and these hills, the softness of the sky,
the outline of these trees at this very minute lose the illusory meaning
with which we had clothed them,
henceforth more remote than a lost paradise...
- Albert Camus

namaste

2007-04-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

Peace is not won by those who fiercely guard their differences but by those who with open minds and hearts seek out connections.
- Katherine Paterson

this poem was sent to me by photographer Allyn Edmonds...
such beautiful words! thank you, Allyn...

Perfect Peace
I ponder deeply in my mind
For thoughts of peace and how to find
It only comes from deep within
You cannot fake it or pretend
Real peace comes when your mind is at rest
Knowing through life you've given your best
Believing in a greater power than we
Holding no grudges, being totally free
Having no ill will against neighbor or kin
Knowing the peace maker is living within
Giving of self to help others in need
Looking for nothing in return for a deed
Being true to one's self no matter the price
It's better to give until it becomes sacrifice
If you want to feel that total release
Then try all of this and you know perfect peace
- brenda whitlock

More of my art & photography can be found on my new website:
kelly a. fine art & photography

art every day...4/17 & 4/18

2007-04-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

"love is the answer" & "mon imagination..."
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: found papers, alcohol inks, watercolors, watercolor crayons, pen & ink, metallic ink

art every day...4/15 & 4/16

2007-04-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

"be light..." & "we must love one another..."

© 2007 kelly angard

finally catching up with scanning & posting the ones i've made this past week...
mixed media: acrylic paint, watercolor crayon, pen & ink, found papers

monday musings...Unexpected Sadness

2007-04-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

"entwined"
© 2007 kelly angard

Everything connects to everything;
therefore, as we change, the world cannot but change with us.
- Marianne Williamson

I started out writing my "monday musing" post this morning about unexpected kindness...but I stopped as soon as I heard about the shooting at Virginia Tech. Living here in Colorado, not far from the sites of two horrible school shootings, news of another campus tragedy hits too close to home...and a familiar sense of pain and shock reverberates throughout the community. I just couldn't bring myself to go on about a few recent acts of unexpected kindess I've experienced lately knowing that there were a number of families who were surely experiencing one of the worst days of their lives.

I think that when something like this happens, we all ask "why"? We struggle trying to make sense out of the senseless...and wonder, "what is the lesson here"? I look at my middle school-aged daughter and realize that this is the third school shooting she has heard about in the past six or seven months. And I don't know what to say to her so that she will feel safe going to school tomorrow.

Maybe my original idea of writing about unexpected kindess wouldn't have been so bad. Maybe it's what we need to hear about and remind ourselves of at a time like this so that we don't look at our neighbors with paranoia or live under a cloud of fear. I don't know what the "right" thing to do is...all I know is that I am so very sad...and even more thankful for the unexpected kindesses I've experienced lately.

art every day...4/14

2007-04-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

"it's time..."
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: found and painted papers, ephemera, postage stamp, text, watercolor crayon, sharpie pen

gaining altitude

2007-04-14T00:28:00.000-07:00

art every day...4/13

2007-04-13T23:28:00.000-07:00

"art is never finished"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: founmd and painted papers, pen & ink, acrylic paint

art every day...4/11 & 4/12

2007-04-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

"Epilogue"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media...found & painted papers, pen & ink, watercolor crayons, text

"Force of Good"
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: found papers & ephemera, pen & ink, acrylic paint

distracted

2007-04-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

In the love of duality, it wanders deluded by doubt.
The mind is distracted by great anxiety; no one recognizes one's own self...
- Atharva Veda

theme: body parts
for:

art every day...4/10

2007-04-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

"must fly..."
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: includes photograph, found & painted papers; pen & ink, acrylic & spray paint, letter stamps, staples

Upcoming Photography Exhibition

2007-04-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

"radiate"
© 2007 kelly angard

I have two photographs which be featured/for sale at an upcoming juried exhibition here in Colorado: "radiate" (above) and to walk a mile.

For those of you who happen to live in or near Denver, feel free to come on by the Lone Tree Photographic Art Show & Sale which begins this Sunday, April 15th...

The 5th Annual Lone Tree Photographic Art Show & Sale
exhibition dates: April 15th-May 4th

location: Lone Tree Golf Club

art every day...4/09

2007-04-09T22:49:00.000-07:00

"it is good..."
© 2007 kelly angard

mixed media: pen + ink, collage, watercolor crayons, metallic ink

monday musings...An Artist's Work

2007-04-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

"seeking the light"
© 2007 kelly angard

Almost every Monday, I leave my studio at some point during the day and head to Starbucks where I write my "Monday Musings" post. I do this because my mind seems to clear of it's usual thought processes the minute I change environments; ideas/topics somehow find their way to the surface with ease.

But today, it just didn't happen. I went to Starbucks...and goodness knows, I wrote (pages and pages!)...but a viable idea/topic just didn't surface. Sure, I filled pages with words...but in my mind, there's "reporting" and then there's "writing", i.e., having something to say. And I prefer to post the latter...

I'd like to believe that the absence of brilliant content (ha!) in today's post is because I ran into a few familiar faces; it's always easy to blame lack of focus on distractions...but the fact of the matter is that today, I couldn't put together a cohesive paragraph for the life of me!!!

Sure, I could go back in my journal and transcribe something I wrote last week or even last month...but why? What value would that be to anyone...especially myself? (Because here in my crafty little world, I am the queen of my own kingdom which means it's all about me!) Seriously though, looking to the past for today's post just doesn't seem right or real...so I'd rather just be honest and tell those of you who do read my blog posts that today, I just don't have "it"...but I am still putting pen to paper (and fingers to keyboard).

There's a great quote on the wall of my studio which I believe speaks specifically to days like today:

"The artist is nothing without the gift.
But the gift is nothing without the work."
- Emile Zola

Work...one of my favorite four-letter words. I think that our "work' is not necessarily what we do on our good days...rather I think the "work" is what we do on the days when we feel like we just don't have "it"; when ideas aren't flowing and all we see around us are too many pieces of art that still need to be finished.

I believe that these are the days we need to give ourselves an extra serving of patience and have faith that somehow, we will find our way through the creative wasteland...and instead of giving in to frustration and apathy, we face the challenge head on, and sit down and write or paint or whatever we do when we create. Who knows what might happen? Maybe we'll sit down without a thought of what to say or do and something good will come out of it...because whenever we embark on a creative journey, we rarely end up in the same place that we started.

art every day...4/08

2007-04-08T21:45:00.000-07:00

"after all"
© 2007 kelly angard
mixed media: pen + ink, collage, watercolor crayons

spring snow
blankets new blossoms
with a refreshing chill.
nature cycles through
writing a new chapter
with utter perfection,
and offers another chance
to begin again.

art every day...4/07

2007-04-07T00:09:00.000-07:00

"a question of success?"
© 2007 kelly angard
mixed media + collage

I'm starting something new:
"Art Every Day" Cards
4x6 cards cut from watercolor paper....a fun and quick way to kick-start creativity.
The small size means less time spent thinking about what to fill up the space with...
I believe that more doing + less thinking = fear-less art!

Background is a collage of found and patterned papers and
letter/number stamps; colorant is watercolor crayons.
Pen & ink flower illustration layered over background;
finished off with gold paint pen details.

very, very bad

2007-04-04T07:05:00.000-07:00

© 2007 kelly angard

There was a little girl
Who had a little curl
Right in the middle of her forehead;
And when she was good
She was very, very good,
But when she was bad, she was horrid.
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

theme: the body
for:

monday musings...One for the Road

2007-03-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

My monday musing is being posted on Tuesday this week because of a sick child at home yesterday...such is life sometimes! :)

When was the last time you said to yourself, "Some day I'd really like to...(fill in the blank)"? How long ago did you state your dream? Have you done the thing you've dreamed of doing? Whether you have or not, we all have dreams; things we think about, long for and dream about doing...
if only we had the time.
if only we were good enough.
if only we had enough money.
if only we were younger...blah, blah, blah.

Tell those things to Burt Munro, and he'd probably pat you on the back, look up at the sky and give a quiet, little chuckle. And then, with his utterly engaging yet humble personality, he'd ask you, "What were those reasons again?"

I rented the movie The World's Fastest Indian which stars Anthony Hopkins this past weekend. To be honest, I wasn't all that excited to see it; the title didn't really speak to me and I hadn't seen the trailer, but I love Sir Anthony. He always brings so much depth to the characters he plays, so I thought I'd give it a chance...and I am so glad that I did.

This small independent film is one of those cinematic treasures...one of those true stories which stays with you for days, sitting at the edge of your consciousness, reminding you of the dreams you have yet to fulfill..

The basic premise of the film is about a real-life New Zealander named Burt Munro, who spent 25 years fine tuning a 1920 Indian motorcycle with hopes of setting a land speed record on it. In 1967, at 68 years old, he risks everything...including his life...to achieve his dream. But this movie is so much more than that...it's so much more than a man who is driven by a passion for speed or about following his dream.

It is about believing in oneself, no matter what others say...
...it's about knowing one's truth and only having to look inside one's self to believe it
...it's about not knowing the outcome, but enjoying every step of the journey
...it's about inspiring others without any intent of being an inspiration
...it's about the difference of living a life and being truly alive
...it's about being fearless

Utterly fearless. Burt explains the reasons behind his fearless nature in an exchange with a young neighbor boy:

Tom: Aren't you scared you'll kill yourself if you crash?
Burt Munro: No... You live more in five minutes on a bike like this going flat out than some people live in a lifetime.

Sounds like the power of now to me; a deep understanding of what it means to truly live in the moment. So now you can probably understand why I love and am recommending this movie...I mean, how could one not love watching a true story about a person who openly embraced and experienced the power of now?

Oh...and here's one more for the road...for your week...enjoy it. Live it.

"If you don't go when you want to go,
when you do go, you'll find you've gone."
- Burt Munro

sneak peek

2007-03-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

What is it about new tennis shoes (or "sneakers" if you're from the east coast)? There's something special about putting on a new pair of sneakers, especially white ones (or ones with white rubber trim!) Is it because a new pair of shoes seems to be full of possibility...an ally in our adventures, leading us to discover new places and accompanying us to familiar ones?

While I know that after today these shoes will never look the same (life is sure to leave it's mark on them at some point!), I'm going to just delight in such a simple pleasure for a few more minutes before I let them take me out into the world.

(don't even think of stepping on them!!!) :)

monday musings...The Power of Now, Part 2

2007-03-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

Ever since writing "The Power of Now" last Monday, the concept of being fully present and in the moment has been at the forefront of my mind. Thinking about living in the "now", about the power of this very moment, led me to realize something big...something really big; something I wasn't prepared for...

I realized how many decisions I make out of fear. Fear? Yes, fear! Now I'm not talking about everyday fears...I'm talking about fear in disguise. Fear that doesn't really look like fear on the outside. Fear that on the surface looks like apathy, procrastination, restlessness...or motivation, organization and goal-setting.

How can this be? How can fear look like something positive (motivation, organization, goal-setting) yet still be negative? Let me explain...

The action of motivation, organization or goal-setting is not in itself negative. However, it can become negative if the intent behind the action is driven by fear. If we are motivated to take action because we don't want to suffer a negative consequence, or because we're concerned about what someone else will think about us or because we want to influence another person's actions, the intent behind the action is based on fear. Here's an example of the difference between positive and negative intent behind an action:

I pay my taxes on time because I want to pay my bills and be a responsible citizen.
vs.
I pay my taxes because I don't want to get into trouble or be charged with a late fee.

The first sentence shows the intent behind the action is positive, i.e., the way I want to live my life. The second sentence, however, demonstrates that the intent behind the same action is driven by fear, i.e., wanting to avoid a negative consequence.

While this may seem like semantics to some, and utterly simplistic and obvious to another, it's neither of those things to those of us whose unconscious minds are ingrained with fear! There are so many ways that fear can seep into our minds and affect both our conscious and unconscious decisions.

I'm actually quite amused at the fact that I thought I was pretty aware of fear and it's power, especially since I've been researching and writing my next book, "Creating Without Fear" for the past year! I have definitely learned about the benefits of fear...it is a necessary emotion in our lives which deters us from danger and serves as an internal warning signa. And it can be a huge source of energy as well as a strong and powerful motivating force. However, when fear is a constant, unconscious companion in our lives, it can not only shape the intent behind our actions, it can also prevent us from truly living our lives.

When this occurs, we usually suffer in one way or another, i.e., addiction, phobias, etc. which in turn prevents us from living our best lives. How ironic that the emotion which can prevent us from suffering (i.e., warn us of danger) can also cause us to suffer!!!

What I personally found really interesting was when I made a list of things that I would consider to be positive and negative traits about myself. While I could clearly see the fear factor behind my negative traits, I was utterly surprised and amazed to realize that many of my positive qualities have also been developed and fine-tuned by fear!!! Here are my two lists:

On the positive side, I have always been the type of person who:
...is really good in an emergency
...loves to problem-solve
...works best on deadlines
...can juggle many projects at one time
...can think on her feet.

On the other hand, I tend to:
...procrastinate
...feel restless and/or bored easily
...get myself overwhelmed
...be a perfectionist
...worry about what others think of me
...not take good care of myself, i.e., eat well, get enough rest, etc.

Oh...My...Gosh!!!
Talk about a monumental light-bulb moment!!! This simple realization paralyzed me...and I mean utterly paralyzed me for awhile. I saw, for the first time, just how deep fear is embedded in my mind.

I felt a sudden rush of questions...so many questions...BIG questions, like:
If I change the intent behind my actions, will I still be good at those things?
Who would I be if I am not a person driven by fear?
What would I base my decisions on?
Would I still be able to create?
How am I going to change the intent behind my actions when there's so many actions I take every single day???

Can you imagine how overwhelming this was to digest?

I quickly realized that I had to just sit with all of these questions. And sit with the fact that I did not have, or know, the answers!!! I wondered how in the heck I was going to make such a huge paradigm shift? How would I be able to go from...

Exercising because I don't want to get out of shape
to
Exercising because I want to be as healthy as I can be

or...

Being punctual so that I won't disappoint my daughter
to
Being punctual because I want to live a low-stress life
???

Coming to terms with all this meant that I had to realize that if I want to change the intent behind my actions/decisions, I will have to redefine myself...redefine who I am and become clear about the reasons I do the things that I do.

After a few thought-provoking hours, I came to the conclusion that like so many other challenges set before me, I would just have to take this journey one step (or one decision!) at a time. Which means that my new mantra will come in quite handy, won't it?
Yes, I believe that I will truly see the value in "the power of now" while on this journey...

wired to win? - mixed media art

2007-03-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

whatever it takes...

2007-03-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

all in a day's work...

2007-03-08T18:30:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint you can on it.
- Danny Kaye

A day of play results in over a dozen new hand-painted papers...
ready to be integrated into some colorful mixed-media artwork!

where am i?

2007-03-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

Morpheus: I imagine that right now, you're feeling a bit like Alice. Hmm? Tumbling down the rabbit hole?
Neo: You could say that.
Morpheus: I see it in your eyes. You have the look of a man who accepts what he sees because he is expecting to wake up. Ironically, that's not far from the truth. Do you believe in fate, Neo?
Neo: No.
Morpheus: Why not?
Neo: Because I don't like the idea that I'm not in control of my life.
Morpheus: I know *exactly* what you mean. Let me tell you why you're here. You're here because you know something. What you know you can't explain, but you feel it. You've felt it your entire life, that there's something wrong with the world. You don't know what it is, but it's there, like a splinter in your mind, driving you mad. It is this feeling that has brought you to me. Do you know what I'm talking about?
(from The Matrix)

* * *

God, I love the line, "it's there like a splinter in your mind, driving you mad." Such a great metaphor which I think speaks to the truth that lies deep inside each of us...

I decided to put my own twist on this week's SP instead of using an online tool because "The Matrix" is where I felt I've been lately...To get this effect, I scanned my abstract illustration (see below) and opened it in Photoshop (along with my b&w SP). I pasted the illustration in a new layer over the photo and then selected "overlay" before tweaking the opacity of the illustration. I then erased areas of the illustration before flattening the layers.

theme: creative/enhanced image
for:

monday musings...The Power of Now

2007-03-05T07:02:00.001-08:00

The power of NOW...this very moment.

These words have been ringing in my ears the past few days; moved me to create the art journal piece above and lulled me into a semi-hypnotic investigative state of writing. I even typed the words into Google to see what would come up...

First, I found a Eckhart Tolle's site because he wrote a book titled The Power of Now. His site led me to another site which led me to yet another...until I stopped at Steve Pavlina's site and read his interpretation of The Power of Now. Good stuff there...truth. A different way of thinking; a new paradigm.

So what is it that determines when the "old" ends and the "new" begins? Especially when "it" is not a date on a calendar; when it is a small, quiet, internal event that changes the way we see things...including ourselves? What is "it" that prompts the finishing of one chapter...and the beginning of a new one?

I'm not sure that I can define what the "it" is...but I do know that I've felt as if I've been on the brink of "it" over the past year; almost like everything I've been through was necessary in order for me to arrive at this moment. There is an undeniable and subtle excitement which reminds me of the first day of school (with new supplies in hand of course!) mixed with a touch of anxiety over the unknown and a twinge of sadness for having to let go of old thoughts and paradigms...and even, people. Letting go is the hardest part for me...especially of things that are familiar and comfortable even though I've outgrown them (like a favorite pair of jeans...or friends), but I've found that it is necessary so that I can free myself up and be open for what is to come.

Possibilities...new beginnings.
There's so much in the power of now...in this very moment.

song of solitude

2007-03-02T19:30:00.000-08:00

height="368" width="500" />
© 2006 kelly angard

“Sing then the core of dark and absolute oblivion where the soul at last is lost in utter peace.”
- D.H. Lawrence

theme: alone

for

Marching towards Spring...and beyond!

2007-03-01T12:48:00.000-08:00

Wow...how did it get to be March already??? I don't know how spring is supposed to arrive early when the snow keeps falling...and with the winter we've had here in Colorado, I'm shocked that the trees are already showing some buds!

While we're all waiting for spring to arrive, I'll be keeping busy creating up a storm and getting ready for a some upcoming shows. Here's a few things going on for me this month...

The March/April edition of ATG (All Things Girl) will feature my photograph, "Taking Notes" in the art & photography section.

All Things Girl started in 2001 as a personal project so that girls from a variety of creative industries could showcase their talents online. The first edition of ATG consisted of 5 submissions but has since grown into quite a large creative online community. Today, it is a bimonthly, high quality, fun and diverse ezine with aspirations to one day find itself in print!

The mission at All Things Girl is to allow women a place to showcase their stuff - artwork, photography, poetry, prose, articles on health, reviews, thoughts on business, creative endeavours and so much more!

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At the end of the month (March 28-April 1), I'll be travelling to Washington's beautiful coast to attend ArtFest! This is my first year going to ArtFest...and I am so excited!!!

I can't imagine how inspiring this experience will be...over 500 artists and three days of creative workshops is sure to spin me into quite the creative frenzy!!! I'll be taking workshops with some of the best artists in the industry:
- a resin workshop with Susan Lenart Kazmer
- an abstract paint workshop with Patricia Seggebruch
- a jewlery workshop with Nina Bagley.

Looking Ahead...
April...I will have four photos on exhibition at The 5th Annual Lone Tree Photographic Art Show, in Lone Tree, Colorado starting April 15th.

May...The Center for Fine Arts Photography selected one of my photographs for a national exhibition at Denver International Airport from May 25-August 6th

September...Can you imagine how amazing it would be to take a week-long art workshop in Tuscany, Italy??? Well guess what? You don't have to just imagine it...you can be a part of it!!! This September, I will be teaching a week-long mixed media art workshop called "Creating Without Fear" in Tuscany, Italy!!! For more information about my workshop, check out the Toscana Americana Workshop website...and imagine yourself creating under the Tuscan sun!

curiosity, wonder or spontaneous delight?

2007-02-27T22:45:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight,
or any experience that reveals the human spirit.
- e. e. cummings

theme: b&w
for:

friend or foe? - mixed media art

2007-02-26T18:01:00.000-08:00

words like feathers are difficult to gather once released to the wind...

theme: communication
mixed media art/collage art for

monday musings...Free to Be

2007-02-26T12:43:00.000-08:00

"Imagine" © 2007 kelly angard

"the artist is grounded in freedom..."
Steven Pressman, author of "The War of Art"

Freedom.
...to think and express and create.
...to choose and decide and ponder.
...to question and seek answers.
...to fail and learn.

Freedom does not have ties to fear that tethers it to the ground.
Rather, freedom soars high, determining it's own direction, charting it's own course.

Yet freedom...true freedom...requires responsibility.
and action.

"freedom lies in being bold..."
Robert Frost

What is your definition of freedom?

united colors

2007-02-24T00:06:00.000-08:00

friday faves: 2/23

2007-02-23T15:20:00.000-08:00

Inspiration is everywhere!!!
Here's a few things which have caught my eye, spoken to my muse or piqued my curiosity...

Participate...

Looking for a free art journal challenge? Artwords, the online art journal, is filled with journal entries from contributing artists. Each Sunday, a new journal entry topic is posted. You can interpret the topic in any way you wish...sketches, photos, paintings, collages, digital or altered art before posting your work to the site.

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Urban Adventures
Urban Curators

Here's a new way to find art in the every day...
The goal of the Urban Curators project is to engage the public in the celebration of the decaying urban environment, recognizing its inherent aesthetic qualities as well as the important role that it plays within our cultural habitat.

The project achieves its goal by elevating common, overlooked objects and spaces within the city of Providence, Rhode Island to the level of high art. The frames themselves are hung with double-sided hardware tape and are easily removed without harm to the spaces in which they are placed. While this is a necessary component of the project, it likewise means that each frame will hang only temporarily. The site encourages others to spread the word and continue the project in their own cities...I'm seriously thinking about getting a group of Denver artists together this spring!

Drop-Spot

A Drop Spot is a kind of alternative mailbox. It’s a hiding place in a public space, where people can leave things for exchange. Anything. It’s a wierd and wonderful way to add personal character to the streets that we live in. Stash something fun and see what you get back.

To find a Drop Spot in your neighborhood, visit the Drop Spots map; select a Drop Spot map marker near you, make note of its location and visual description and head out the door to find it! Once you locate the spot and discover your mystery gift, make sure to leave one in its place to keep the exchange going.

You can also create a new Drop Spot...simply find a hidden nook or crevice in your neighborhood to tuck away a simple gift you would like to share; perhaps a poem, photograph, favorite quote, or mix CD—something fun that represents you. Then log on to dropspots.org to map and describe the secret location of your gift so others can find it.

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Affordable Art...

fine art...paper goods...home & garden...jewelry...clothing & accessories...baby & pet
Petaline.net provides a place for new artists and craftspeople to showcase their work to the world, and a place for people to purchase and/or peruse quality artwork + design for their home and lifestyle. Be sure to check out their daily buzz blog with cool tips, links, and articles about the artistic lifestyle - or the networking salon where you can participate in arty designy crafty conversations.

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Free Fonts...
K-Type is an independent, young and vibrant UK type foundry which offers cool and unique type fonts for free! They also have very affordable fonts for purchase. Here are links to a few of my favorites...

MailArt Rubberstamp

Susanna

Klee

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Quote for the week...

"Live the Questions" © 2007 kelly angard

“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is to live everything. Live the questions."
- Rainer Maria Rilke

(mixed media on canvas, available at my etsy store)

joy

2007-02-21T18:26:00.000-08:00

Girl, put your records on, tell me your favourite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans, I hope you get your dreams,
Just go ahead, let your hair down.

Oh, you're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow ...

lyrics by corinne bailey rae

What is the self-portrait journey like for you? Here are a few of my thoughts:
My Self-centered Journey

theme: b&w
for:

monday musings...A Self-centered Journey

2007-02-19T19:59:00.000-08:00

The self-portrait journey I've challenged myself with over the past year has turned out to be quite an interesting and insightful experience...one filled with anxiety, trepidation and surprise. I've realized that self-portraits are so much more than simply snapping a photo...it's the baring of one's soul; knowing that what is captured in less than a second is most likely going to reveal what is going on inside, no matter how much we'd like to think that our truth doesn't show. It always shows. And because of that, I've had to push myself to work through the fear of revealing my inner turmoil and worse yet, my weaknesses.

This became more evident the other day when I looked at my set of self-portraits and realized that it took me six months to be able to look directly at the camera and show my entire face. Even more symbolic was the fact that my very first self-portrait was of my back...quite a statement as to the depth of my fear. Over time, as I became more comfortable "seeing" who I was at any given moment, I found myself emerging from behind my hair, showing more of my face and on rare occassions, even looking directly at the camera!

I don't know that I would have delved as deep into self-portraiture if I didn't have a digital camera. There's a indispensible safety net built into every digital camera: the almighty and revered "delete" button! And I have no problem using it; quick and often. I like the fact that undesirable images can disappear as quickly as they appeared, way before they sear into my memory and I begin to focus on all those parts that I wish were different. I'm certainly not denying that the unattractive parts are there...I've just found that it's quite a bit healthier (and more enjoyable) to focus on the good stuff. Nonetheless, it is a humbling ride...one which I am grateful for having the courage to take. It is a journey which I intend to follow until I reach my destination...a place that I can see off in the distance; a warm and welcoming place called "acceptance".

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for another musing on the growing popularity of self-portraiture, here's a link a piece I wrote early last year: The Self Portrait: Self-Aggrandizing or Self-Expression?

falling...

2007-02-17T12:58:00.000-08:00

friday faves: 2/16

2007-02-16T08:57:00.000-08:00

Inspiration is everywhere!!!
Here's a few things which have caught my eye, spoken to my muse or piqued my curiosity...

Can you resist some serious eye-candy?

If you love color and design...even a little...you simply must take a look at Tricia Guild's book, Pattern and website, The Designers Guild. I found a recent review of Tricia's book on the Mantex blog which describes the book better than I could: "Tricia Guild is an interior designer and the brand name behind a successful company which features a vivid array of fabrics and furnishings - all of which feature striking colours, bold patterns, and luxurious textures...She is inspired by fabrics, techniques, motifs and designs from all over the world and from every period of history - brocades and damasks from the Far East; the rich history of botanical illustration and flower painting; checks, plaids and stripes from northern Europe; vibrant ethnic prints from India and Central America; painterly designs from Chinese and European porcelain; the bold abstracts and geometric patterns of contemporary painters.

Not that it's all entirely in-your-face colour and bold pattern. She also has some subtle and restrained examples of ticking used to create a cool, contemporary atmosphere. But those are the exception. Most of the book is filled with hot, passionate colours, and rich textures emphasised by extreme close-up photographs. There's a whole chapter on the use of flowers in fabric patterns - tulips, poppies, roses, and chrysanthemums...

Many of the pages are like Howard Hodgkin paintings. It's difficult not to be seduced by the visual texture of it all..."

Difficult indeed...I gave up trying to resist the seduction and bought the book!!! :)

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In a Creative Funk?

Illustrator Keri Smith comes to the rescue with an Artists Survival Kit, a fun little download for "the really bad days, for the days when you want to quit, when you feel like everything you do is shit, when you feel your self-esteem plummet..." I love how she uses her talent and sense of humor to bring about change.

Once you're feeling like you can create again, but are lacking inspiration, take a look at her list of 100 Ideas. Surely something on that will appeal to you and help kick start your creative energy. Still feeling stuck??? Meander over to her blog, The Wish Jar. You'll find she's always challenging herself with a new project or writing something wonderfully wise...an inspiration for whatever kind of day you're having!

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Print + Cut + Paste
Looking for a little DIY project this weekend? Feeling a little crafty?
Here's two fun print+cut+paste ideas I found this past week. The first is something for the kid in all of us...

Colorful and fun little toys for you to print and build by the guys at FWIS Design Group. Each toy is designed to fit on an 8.5x11 page. All you'll need (beside a printer!) are scissors, double-sided tape and about 10-15 minutes!

How about a little recyclable and cost-effective fun for kitty?

Craft yourself some simple DIY Cat Toys. Marmalade Pet Care offers three toys to download, print and create from corrugated cardboard. What will kitty play with today...a cardboard mouse, jak or ball???

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Create Your Own Eye Candy!

Want to be a little eye candy instead of just looking at it??? Well here's your chance to become an m&m... Hope you have a super sweet day!!!

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Thought for the Week...
From my very first post here on "The Crafty-Girl" back in June 2005...

Craft Your Life
Sometimes, less is more...so instead of a lengthy declaration of who and what The Crafty-Girl™ is, I'm happy to let someone else's eloquent words say it with clarity:

"Originality consists of trying to be like everybody else...and failing."

Raymond Radiguet, french novelist

Stay tuned...and craft your life!

waiting patiently...

2007-02-15T20:18:00.000-08:00

...for me to do something with!
Three of the six canvases I painted with yesterday's color palette.
Now the big decision...what to do with them from here???

Color Palette

2007-02-14T16:18:00.000-08:00

I LOVE to experiment with color and create new combinations when I have time to just play!
Here's the palette I started with with today and a few different color combinations. Tomorrow I'll post a few of the backgrounds I created with these colors...

Colors...
1st row: Pthalo Blue, Cerulean Blue Dark, Cerulean Blue Chromiate, Paynes Gray
2nd row: Cobalt Teal, Cobalt Titanate Green, Thalo Yellow-Green, Titanate Yellow

Combinations...
row 1
a. Cobalt Teal, Thalo Yellow-Green, Titanate Yellow
b. Cobalt Titanate Green, Cerulean Blue Dark, White

row 2
a. Pthalo Blue, Cerulean Blue Dark
b. Cobalt Titanate Green, Cerulean Blue Dark, Titanate Yellow, White

row 3
a. Cerulean Blue Chromiate, Cobalt Teal, Titanate Yellow, White
b. Cobalt Teal, Thalo Yellow-Green, Titanate Yellow, Cerulean Blue Dark, White

All acrylic paints by Golden, except Thalo Yellow Green and Titanate Yellow, which are by Grumbacher.

almost ready...

2007-02-12T23:26:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

One must always have one's boots on and be ready to go.
- Michel de Montaigne

I'm not sure why I decided to take this photo...
I think it must be something about
the way I feel when I wear these boots.
I feel like I'm ready for anything...
even though I'm not sure what that "thing" is!

theme: black & white

for:

monday musings...The Fine Art of Pricing Art

2007-02-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

"Organized Chaos" © 2007 kelly angard

Just over a month ago, I opened an Etsy store so I could sell some of my art and photography online. Within the first few days, a fellow Etsy seller sent me an email asking about my pricing. Ugh.

The mixing of money and art...it's an uncomfortable subject at best. Why is this?
Is it because we think that the price we put on our art is reflective of it's value...and since we create from our heart and souls, we tie the value of what we create to our own personal value? Or is it because we're not sure how much we should get paid to do something we love and enjoy?

No matter the reason, pricing our own art is, in my opinion, one of the most difficult things to do! The only way I've been able to get semi-comfortable with pricing my art is by separating myself from what I create, i.e., looking at a finished piece as a product rather than "my art". Removing my emotional self and all that I've experienced during the creative process not only allows me to be more objective when it comes to determining a price, it also takes away the "apology" factor...that is, feeling like I should apologize for the price of my art.

When I first started selling my work, I was absolutely clueless as to a price...so I turned to the wisdom of full-time professional painter and author of The Painter's Keys (a twice-weekly letter which I love), Robert Genn. He wholeheartedly believes that "artists young and old, particularly those who have the intention of staying in the game, ought to strategize for the big picture and honour their strategy with Biblical tenacity." He has assembled what he calls, "The Ten Commandments of Art Pricing" which I have found to be full of wisdom and common sense:

"Thou shalt start out cheap.
Thou shalt publish thy prices.
Thou shalt raise thy prices regularly and a little (he suggests 10% per year).
Thou shalt not lower thy prices.
Thou shalt not have one price for Sam and another for Joe.
Thou shalt not price by talent or time taken, but by size.
Thou shalt not easily discount thy prices.
Thou shalt lay control on thy agents and dealers.
Thou shalt deal with those who will honour thee.
Thou shalt end up expensive."

Here's a few more links to information about the fine art of pricing your art...
How to Price Art
Pricing Your Art
The Lighter Side of Pricing Your Art
How to Price Your Art Realistically

Still not sure what your art is worth? Do a little comparative research at online sites like Emerging Artist.com and EBSQ.com.

upcoming exhibition...

2007-02-11T11:58:00.000-08:00

I am so very excited to learn that this self-portrait has been selected by The Center for Fine Art Photography (C4FAP) for an upcoming exhibition at DIA (Denver International Airport)!!! Exhibition dates are May 25-August 6, 2007...

C4FAP reports, "The DIA Invitational Exhibition offers artists with an exceptional opportunity to have their work seen by more than 10,000 people daily. Art work is routinely sold to passengers who view the exhibition while waiting for their flights. DIA's exhibitions director states "it is not uncommon for someone to call from their airplane and purchase a work prior to their departure!" On September 15, 2006 the Center installed the first of four traveling shows to DIA in the DIA's Bridge Gallery. The exhibition has sold several prints and many exhibiting artists have reported emails and purchase contacts resulting from the exhibition."

I'll post more information about the exhibition in early May...

Friday Faves: 2/9

2007-02-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

Inspiration is everywhere!!!
Here's a few things which have caught my eye, spoken to my muse or piqued my curiosity...

Artist/Photographer...Dale Doyle
Every once in awhile, I happen across an artist's work who takes my breath away...not just because of what they create, but because their talent seems to know no limits. Dale Doyle is one of those artists...

© 2007 Dale Doyle

Not only does Dale have the eye to capture the extraordinary in the ordinary with his photography skills, he is also an amazing (an i mean AMAZING) portrait artist and avant-garde graphic designer. I can't help but wonder how so much talent and creativity can be encased in one person...

© 2007 Dale Doyle

Looking through his flickr stream, it's no wonder that Dale works as a senior design director for an international design firm. His eye for design comes through everything he creates...no matter the medium. I love visiting his stream because I never know what to expect...which follows his personal philosphy: "don't expect the same old, same old from me, as i like to change my style often. Some things will be brilliant, other stuff will be pure crap, but it's all about diversity."
Ummm...hello? Diversity...yes. Crap...no!

What else can I say, except that Dale is a true "renaissance man" in every sense of the word. See the abundance of creativity and talent at his photo site the murmur project and flickr site.

© 2007 Dale Doyle

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Cool site...Art Face-Off.com

Spreading the word...and Art!
Art Face Off is a new online home for the global art community. The site,
ArtFaceOff.com provides artists a free online portfolio of a professional quality that will be viewed by critics, curators and other artists around the globe. Steven W. Ochs, the gallery owner and instigator of the movement, began his quest to build Art Face Off in 2004. The website launched on September 1, 2006, and continues to grow rapidly as his volunteers and employees labor at the monumental task of getting the word out to every artist in the world.

What is the Art Face-Off?
Each artist who posts an online portfolio on ArtFaceOff.com enters their work in one of our eight media categories: Photography, Painting, Printmaking, Craft, 3 Dimensional, Digital, Drawing, and Mixed Media. Their work is rated on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is beginning level amatuer art and 10 is a masterpiece, by site visitors in a weighted rating system. The two artists with the highest overall ratings in each category are then entered into the esteemed face off phase of the competition where their most highly rated artwork is shown next to that of their competitor, and the Art Face Off community votes on which of the two pieces is their favorite.

Face Offs occur almost every five days in each media category for about a year, until the two remaining undefeated artists in each category face off against each other and the winners are awarded as “Humanity’s Greatest Living Artists.”
www.artfaceoff.com

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Sounds of a beating heart...
With Valentine's Day coming up and all, what could be better than music that makes your heart pound? Take a listen to Devotchka's song, "The Last Beat of My Heart".

© 2006 kelly angard

I was honored to have the opportunity to meet and photograph these very talented and creative musicians this past November for the cover of Colorado Music Buzz Magazine.

DeVotchka (clockwise from upper left: Shawn King, Tom Hagerman, Nick Urata, Jeannie Schroder) is an amazingly creative group of talented musicians...their sound is unlike any other I have heard; passionate, cinematic, haunting, beautiful and memorable...and has garnered them a Grammy nomination for film/tv compilation soundtrack album for Little Miss Sunshine!

Mikel Jolet from "Filter Magazine" writes, "Devotchka may be the best band in America you’ve never heard of. This fascinating little quartet from Denver, Colorado has made a wistful, beautifully-arranged something that isn’t really an indie rock record, and isn’t really a jazz record...It’s the album you put on when you want to wallow, when you want to brood, when you want to shut your windows and close your blinds and lose yourself in the wistful tragedy of love and loss and hope and nostalgia that bubbles to the surface in all of your darker, finer moments. ...It makes you think. It makes you long. It makes you dream. And if you can listen to the aching troubador ballad “Dearly Departed” without feeling the suffocating sensation of tearing flesh from bone that accompanies any true loss, then you haven’t loved and you haven’t lost and you shouldn’t kid yourself that your better for it."

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Quote for the week...

mixed media art...invoking the muse

2007-02-08T16:29:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

The muse has her ways, she hides from you,
comes for you in the middle of the night, at midday, at dawn.
You must believe wholeheartedly in this divine power.
It's an elusive gift that can appear at any time, anywhere...
- Mickey Hart

comissioned art...mixed media on canvas; 22x28
...this one has more layers than an onion!
acrylic paint, ink, spray paint, collage, oil pastel, gel medium

reticent

2007-02-06T08:06:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence,
and I learn, whatever state I may be in,
therein to be content.
- Helen Keller

for:

monday musings...Owning Our Own Life

2007-02-05T11:48:00.000-08:00

My nine-year-old son asked me one of those questions the other day. You know, the kind of question which catches us parents completely off guard; one of those "meaning-of-life" questions which comes completely out of the blue...

"Mom, if you could have anyone else's life, who's life would you want to have?"

Hmmmm...a big question from the little boy with an old soul.

So many things flashed through my mind...past regrets? lost dreams? big mistakes? Oh goodness...what about those years of suffering through a painful adolescence??? Sure, there have been many moments over the course of my life that I would have rather not have experienced, moments when I wished to be Alice holding a mysterious bottle which said "drink me" so that I could escape to another world... But overall, would I wish for someone else's life?

It would have been so easy for me to say, "No one else's life, Jake. I love being your mom..." so that he would feel safe and secure and loved. But I realized he wasn't asking to feel loved and safe at this moment...he was asking about possibilities. His possibilities...his future...his dreams.

These are the moments I love as a mom; him thinking and dreaming about what lies ahead of him, and me, standing beside him, seeing all of his possibilities. I can only hope and pray that he sees in himself half of what I see in him...and help keep him grounded in today so that he can move forward into all his tomorrow's with strength and courage.

A poignant scene from the movie Little Miss Sunshine suddenly came to mind...one in which an angst-ridden high-school boy (Dwayne) reveals his pain to his sensitive and struggling uncle (Frank):

Dwayne: I wish I could just sleep until I was eighteen and skip all this crap-high school and everything...just skip it.
Frank: You know Marcel Proust?
Dwayne: He's the guy you teach.
Frank: Yeah. French writer. Total loser. Never had a real job. Unrequited love affairs. Gay. Spent 20 years writing a book almost no one reads. But he's also probably the greatest writer since Shakespeare. Anyway, he uh... he gets down to the end of his life, and he looks back and decides that all those years he suffered, those were the best years of his life, 'cause they made him who he was. All those years he was happy? You know, total waste. Didn't learn a thing. So, if you sleep until you're 18... Ah, think of the suffering you're gonna miss. I mean high school? High school...those are your prime suffering years. You don't get better suffering than that...

While I am a sucker for wisdom delivered with a hint of sarcasm and humor, and I love seeing one of life's great lessons delivered with such real candor, it didn't take remembering a scene from a movie to know my own answer.

"Nobody else's life, Jake. There's nobody's life I would rather have..." I said with a smile.
"Me neither, mom. Not even Luke Skywalker's!" he exclaimed with conviction.

Well, okay then.
May the force stay with you, sweet boy.

p.s. If you only see one of the movies nominated for an Academy Award this year...I highly recommend Little Miss Sunshine. It will make you laugh and cry and think...and laugh some more. It is a treasure of a movie.

Friday Faves: 2/7

2007-02-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Inspiration is everywhere!!!
Here's a few things which have caught my eye, spoken to my muse or piqued my curiosity...

Photographer, Robby Garbett

© 2007 Robby Garbett

Robby Garbett is a self-taught photographer, living in Dublin, Ireland who began his passion for photography with what he calls, "strange holiday snaps that no-one understood." About a year and a half ago, he packed in his academic career so he could spend most of his time deciding what kind of photographer/artist he is and the rest of the time earning enough money for food and heat as a registered nurse.

© 2007 Robby Garbett

A taste for texture
Robby's desire to make sense of things found him fascinated with decay and texture. "Decay, colour and texture seem to call me. I don't suppose it's any psychological mystery; life is impermanent. The proud posturings of today will be as nothing in an eyeblink. Love and compassion endure, material things do not."

© 2007 Robby Garbett

Inspirational Insights
When asked about inspiration, Robby says, "I think it's more what than who...
For a long while I simply shot what drew my eye. I wasn't troubled by the fact that I had no idea why I was drawn to decay, after all it was hardly an original topic. But as my technique and style developed, I started to think about where my look has come from. I think it relates to my own preoccupation with the absurd nature of existence; believing that that the material world is finite and deeply mortal, I see the textural work as a meditation on that concept. The beauty I try and capture is similarly a meditation on love - perhaps the closest concept that I have come across is the buddhist notion of mehta - a kind of all embracing positive regard toward the world..."

As far as "who" Robby finds inspiring, he reflects on the colour field artists like Rothko for example, but paradoxically is also drawn to those who focus on tonal range and an almost dessicated kind of light which typifies the work of Andrew Wyeth.

Personally, I find Robby's photography is a great inspirational resource for my mixed media art...his affinity for capturing unique layers of color and texture never fail to jump start my creative battery. You can take a look at his entire body of work here.

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Handmade Modern Designer/Blogger, Nicole Lecht

Nicole Lecht is a handmade modern designer who specializes in bookbinding and her uber-fabulous design blog, freshlyblended (www.freshlyblended.blogspot.com). Once I read freshlyblended's blog description, I knew it was destined to be one of my favorites...

"book & print designer by day
and bookbinder & handmade modern designer by night....
look through the eyes of a creative mind
and experience a "fresh blend" of life,
craft, inspiration, and especially design."

Nicole loves setting creative goals for herself; she is currently working on expanding her site and opening an etsy shop, claiming it as a "fast growing brainchild of mine created to give my work to those fabulous people who support the indie design and craft community." The new freshlyblended site will focus on handmade books, journals and sketchbooks as well as her trademark blessing books for weddings with goals to branch out into papergoods.

Best of luck to you Nicole...we'll be looking forward to watching you and your ideas grow!

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Online Courses through MIT

I'm always up for exploring new ideas, finding new avenues of learning...so when I recently read about MIT's Open Courseware, I knew I had to see what MIT was offering. MIT's Open Courseware is a free and open educational resource (OER) for educators, students, and self-learners around the world...with over
1,550 courses with topics ranging from architecture to writing to foreign language and literature. The site is easy to navigate, even with it's immense library of information; you'll find a ton of helpful information about how the site works here.

Here's a few courses which piqued my interest...
The Art of Color
The Creative Spark
Composting Your Life: Exploration of Self through Visual Arts and Writing

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Thought for the week...
"I Succeed" by Michael Jordan/Nike

I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career.
I've lost almost 300 games.
Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed.
I've failed over and over and over again in my life.
And that is why I succeeded.
-Michael Jordan

fight club

2007-01-31T07:26:00.000-08:00

Only a man who knows what it is like to be defeated can reach down to the bottom of his soul and come up with the extra ounce of power it takes to win...
- Muhammad Ali

resolution #4...

reach for the extra ounce of power.
for

monday musings...Can You Hear Me Now?

2007-01-29T09:56:00.001-08:00

© 2006 kelly angard

I saw the movie “Babel” yesterday…

This amazingly poignant and striking piece of work speaks of so much more than the invisible boundaries of communication both inside and across ethnic and cultural lines…I believe it speaks of something which lies much deeper, something which has motivated man to communicate since the beginning of time: the intrinsic desire to connect with others and be understood.

I left the movie asking so many questions.
The one which loomed largest, however, was this:
how far does one feel they have to go in order to be heard when they believe that no one is listening?

Do we first try to speak louder or attempt to speak to other people, hoping that someone will “hear” us?
How long can the human psyche stay intact while feeling ignored and invisible?
At what point is it that one chooses extreme actions to make their statements and be heard?
How long does it take before the soul roars up in anger and lashes out in whatever way it feels will garner the most attention…and make the loudest statement?

When we feel we have had enough of feeling isolated and invisible, what do we do?
Do we choose to lash out at others…innocent bystanders who have simply been at the wrong place or the wrong time? Or do we turn our anger inward, onto ourselves, choosing self-destructive behaviors which will reinforce how we really feel about ourselves and prevent us from getting what it is we so desperately want and need…to feel connected and understood?

I wondered if the irony of our wonderfully modern and technology-driven world of global communication is that behind the myriad of electronic ways for us to “communicate” and “connect”, we are feeling more isolated and alone than ever…misunderstood and invisible.

This may be but a small clue as to the ever-surging popularity of reality-based television shows in which there seems to be no limit to the number of people who will volunteer for their “fifteen minutes of fame”…even if that means their fifteen minutes is laced with a heavy helping of humiliation and shame. Maybe at least they feel they are a some-body and no longer invisible. Maybe they believe that fifteen minutes is better than none.

But is this the way out of our existential loneliness?

Why haven't we realized that there is a universal language?
One which crosses all continents as well as ethnic and cultural lines...
One which really needs no words to be effectively communicated...
One which shows us that we are all more alike than we are different...

That language is LOVE.

truth or dare?

2007-01-23T17:15:00.001-08:00

© kelly angard

(these words, painted on a vacant store window,
caught my eye while walking around downtown Denver...)

resolution #3...

dare to be different.
easier said than done...
especially when different is interpreted as "wrong",
or different leaves us standing by ourselves...

for

Give yourself "The Creative License"

2007-01-22T08:57:00.000-08:00

This is not only the name of the illustrator, Danny Gregory's book, it is a mantra worth repeating...and believing. We do need to give ourselves "creative license" to do what we love to do without fear...without fear of it being "good enough", without fear of other's judgment and without fear of it being stolen or copied. While this is easier said than done, we still need to repeat it...until we can believe it.

I highly recommend "The Creative License"...it's a book full of personal anecdotes, simple yet effective creative exercises and and downright common sense for anyone who dares to create. Even if you don't think you are or want to be an illustrator. Especially if you don't think you are an illustrator! Besides Danny's genuine and very "real" voice, I love that the entire book looks as if it is hand-written because it gives one the feeling that we are looking at the pages of his personal journal. Here's one of my favorites...clear and to the point with a great dash of humor alongside a swift kick in the proverbial excuse-laden ass:

Danny Gregory is also the author of "Everyday Matters" and can be found at www.dannygregory.com
His site is one that every artist should bookmark...

ugly truth. beautiful lies.

2007-01-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

i am happy...i am strong...i am independent...i am nothing like my mother...i am honest...i am free...i am smart...i am unique...
i am real...i am dependable...i am living my dream...i am optimistic...i am humble...i am witty...i am pragmatic...
i am sensitive...i am content...i am loyal...i am empathetic...i am educated...i am confident...
i am outgoing...i am doing my best...i am fine.
I am me.

And i am a LIAR.

Do you believe me?

Resolution #2...
deal with the truth.
even if it's not pretty.
especially if it's ugly...

for

internal uprising

2007-01-04T10:11:00.000-08:00

© 2007 kelly angard

It is one thing to study war and another to live the warrior's life.
- Telamon of Arcadia, 5th century mercenary

Resolution #1...live as a peaceful warrior.

for

peaceful dawn...

2007-01-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

A Colorful Year Awaits!!!

2006-12-28T07:50:00.000-08:00

© kelly angard 2007

Best wishes to all for a bright and creative 2007!
Thanks so much for all your support and inspiration this past year...

(mixed media photo art...photograph + acrylic + ink + photoshop)

it's all about the shoes...

2006-11-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

should i stay or should i go?

“Sometimes...when you hold out for everything, you walk away with nothing.”
Ally McBeal

for

art journals...Looking for Solace

2006-11-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

art journal © 2oo6 kelly angard

where does it go?
the strength...i had it yesterday.
felt it rise up in me like a strong wave,
forcing itself deep in me, sweeping me up in it's force...
but today, it is nowhere to be found.
i want it back...need it back
so that i can keep on fighting the good fight.

is it just part of the natural ebb and flow of things?
if so, i just wish the tide would stay in
just a little longer next time...

Light of Two Worlds

2006-11-06T22:14:00.000-08:00

you see, I have friends in both places”
- Mark Twain

for

colorful optimism

2006-10-31T12:59:00.000-08:00

i like what i see when i wear my rose-colored glasses!

Inspiring Insights...

2006-10-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

"sparkle & burn"

To the dull mind, nature is leaden.
To the illumined mind, the whole world burns and sparkles with light.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

in·spi·ra·tion n.
1. Stimulation of the mind or emotions to a high level of feeling or activity
2. An agency, such as a person or work of art, that moves the intellect or emotions or prompts action or invention.
3. Something, such as a sudden creative act or idea, that is inspired.
4. The quality of inspiring or exalting: a painting full of inspiration.
5. Divine guidance or influence exerted directly on the mind and soul of humankind.

Like so many words in the English dictionary, there are quite a few definitions for the word "inspiration". My personal favorite is #2:

"a person or work of art that moves the intellect or emotions
or prompts action or invention."

When I took a closer look at the definition of inspiration, I realized what an amazing force it is. By definition, inspiration is something which "moves the intellect or emotions" i.e., something which goes to the core of us, something that speaks to us on a deep and intrinsic level. Furthermore, inspiration is defined as something which "prompts action or invention", i.e., something which propels us to take action, something which encourages us to do different and/or see something we hadn't seen before. No wonder we artists are always seeking it!!!

Whether we're looking to be inspired in terms of color, texture, composition, technique or image...we're always looking, always searching!!! We peruse websites, flip through magazines and wander the halls of museums and galleries; sometimes we find it, sometimes we don't.

On the days that we are lucky enough to find it, what do we do with it?

I don't know about you, but 9 times out of 10, I get so many ideas and thoughts swirling in my mind, I'm not sure what to do or even where to start! And then suddenly, my moment of pure excitement quickly turns into utter frustration...

Why does this happen? Why is it that whenever I'm not sure what to do, doubt sets in (like when I tell myself, "I could never create something as beautiful, wonderful and/or inspiring as that!") and I can't create anything?

I think it happens because first and foremost, inspiration is not to be copied; it is not an act of simply recreating that which we see and/or experience. It is instead, a process...a process which requires us to think before taking action. A process which enables us to integrate our own thoughts and style with that which we've seen and/or experienced.

This, I believe, is the challenge of inspiration...finding ways to make what we see — that which moves our intellect and prompts us into action — "our own". Because as artists (of any kind!), we are driven to leave our mark on the world...we are driven to create, not copy.

I find this subject fascinating and full of possbility, so I think I'll be exploring more of it here on my site over the next couple of months...

As always...your questions and comments are always welcome!

ghostwriter

2006-10-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

Words are also seeds, and when dropped into the invisible spiritual substance, they grow and bring forth after their kind.
- Charles Fillmore

for Illustration Friday; theme: ghost
mixed media

eyes wide open

2006-10-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

Rows of empty soldier's boots serve as a shocking and painful reminder of the human cost of the Iraq War. I don't know which was more heartbreaking...the boots that looked as if they were well-worn, as if they had marched over miles of rigorous terrain, or the boots that looked brand new, barely out of the box with hardly a mark on them. Waves of utter sadness swept over me while positioning for this shot; the reality of lost lives represented in rows of empty soles...

No matter the differences in our political party or personal opinions about this war, we all have something in common...something larger than ourselves...we are all part of the human race.

Imagine what would happen if each of us would step outside of our opinions, turn down the volume of our personal and political voices for just a few minutes and simply honor those who have lost their lives as well as those who are still living this horror...

I have to believe that a sense of humanity can grow and in turn, affect others. For if waves of fear can spread like wildfire and ravage an entire country, then why can't a giant wave of humanity reach distant shores? We will never know if we don't even try...

A soldier's boots...once filled with courage, hope and pride. Now they are empty...as are 2,497 other pairs of boots...and on national exhibition. If this exhibition comes to your town, I highly recommend seeing it...
"Eyes Wide Open", a travelling exhibition on the human cost of the Iraq War
www.afsc.org/eyes/ Check out the website for exhibition locations & dates.

word association

2006-10-05T22:33:00.000-07:00

We are the living links in a life force that moves and plays around and through us,
binding the deepest soils with the farthest stars.
- Alan Chadwick

(i found these wonderful ceramic stones at a delightfully eclectic store called Patina in Englewood, CO)

the journey within

2006-09-23T11:22:00.001-07:00

I am so excited...
I recently found out that two pieces of my work were accepted
to the EVE Experience National Exhibition!!!
Art will hang October 14th-November 5th
at Sacramento's Famous Harlow's Momo Lounge.
presented by Hart & Soul Studio

If you live in the Sacramento, California area, please come by and enjoy Sacramento's "Second Saturday" art walk in addition to this National Exhibition.
I'll be in town for the Artists Reception, Saturday October 14th 6-9pm
2708 J St., Downtown Sacramento

Artists
Kelly Angard, CO...Beatriz Meyer, CA...Sigrid Benson, CA...Nicole Berry, CA...Mary Jane Boxer, CA...Kelly Dykstra, MI...Rebecca Fong, CA...Victoria Goro-Rapoport, NE...Darlene Graeser, CA...Brandy Hart-Ureel, CA...Katie Hollister, CO...Marisa Sayago, CA...Melinda Stewart, KS...Maureen Tinley, IL...Eldore' Wood, CA...Jean Weil, CA