MY PROCESS
INSCAPE
When I plan artwork I close my eyes so I can see my "inscape" more clearly. I am used to choreographing my moves through an artwork with visualization.
I often get my best ideas early in the morning, when I look like I am still sleeping, but actually I am working on a piece in my mind. It takes some courage to start. Art making requires conquering your fears (sometimes with tears), laughing at yourself, and then being amazed that you can do it
(or not do it the way you planned).
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1. Quiet time with eyes closed to plan my ideas.
2. Sketching. On paper or with Procreate on my Ipad.
3. Color Palette. Choosing colors for message and mood.
4. Vectorize the Drawing. In Affinity Designer for IPad.
5. Develop layers of line, shape, and texture.
6. Test and adjust. View the work on mock up products.
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THE SPICE OF LIFE
"Variety is the very spice of life, that gives it all its flavor" - William Cowper
My creative process cycles through a variety of productive endeavors that allow me to rest from one and come alive anew in another. If you follow me on Instagram, you have seen this pattern happen in real time. I may follow each for a few weeks to a few months, but all creative projects inform and inspire each other.
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Digital Pattern Design
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Piano Performance Study
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Landscape Painting
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Apparel and Craft Sewing
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Travel Sketchbook
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Watercolor Card Design
While studying a new piece at the piano, the crescendos and pedaling work inspire the style and techniques of a painting - which forms in the mind during the music. When traveling, an idea for a pattern design forms from cultural symbols.
Creation is continuous and comes from
living an inquisitive life.
I am also a believer in the value of art hobbies. Not for any monetary gain or recognition. Just for the process. Just to help us come to know ourselves.
TEST AND TRY
My digital patterns do not just live on your computer screen. For me to thoroughly experience my creative process, I include a review and test of the physical fabric. I want to personally translate the design into another form and test its value on simple goods that I use daily.
I do this because I love gifts that are handmade.
For others but also for myself.
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bags and wallets
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notebook covers
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pillow covers
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scarves
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jar openers
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aprons
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Sewing and crafting with my own designs makes me more sensitive to other crafters and the way they use fabric. It is also fun and meaningful...
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​When I look at my design "Oregon Wildflowers" I remember how tough and resilient these delicate blooms are. They are hardy though tiny. I remember hiking up into the hills to find them on a windy, spring day. This design reminds me that each day is made of small beauty but you have to be looking for it.
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"The aim of art is not to represent the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance." - Aristotle
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