loading...
by frosted flamingo | Feb 13, 2024 | Blog
Here’s the challenge: make or do something creative every day this month! Be your own guide, or use the ideas/prompts below for inspiration. Whether you make art for a living, or dabble in creativity to relax or have fun, I will be cheering for you! If you choose to document your journey on social media, tag @the_frostedflamingo and use the hashtag #frostedflamingochallenge. I can’t wait to see what you create!
-
March 1: Think/talk/write about an art form (or medium) that you have never tried but would like to learn.
-
March 2: Use a pencil to scribble over a piece of paper for one minute. Erase 1/2 of the marks. Scribble again for 30 seconds. Erase 1/4 of the marks. Scribble again for 15 seconds. Erase 1/8 of the marks.
-
March 3: Glue a newspaper or magazine article to a piece of construction paper, then cover parts of the text with markers or additional paper shapes.
-
March 4: Cut a photograph or an image from a magazine into rough cubes. Glue cubes onto a blank piece of paper leaving space between each cut piece.
-
March 5: Create an image of an animal. You choose the medium (drawing, painting, printmaking etc.)
-
March 6: Think/write/talk about illustrations from one of your favorite children’s books. Why do you like these illustrations?
-
March 7: Try contour drawing! Without looking at your paper, draw a piece of fruit. Drag a pen across the surface of a piece of paper at a very slow speed. Imagine that you are an ant crawling on the surface of the object you are drawing. Try to capture every bump or variation that you see without taking your eyes off the object.
-
March 8: Make something three-dimensional, then destroy it.
-
March 9: Make edible art (or beautify something that can be eaten).
-
March 10: Gather and use 3 alternatives to paintbrushes (ie small twigs, cardboard tubes, balloons, etc.).
-
March 11: Pull together the most colorful combination of clothes and accessories that you own, then create art inspired by that outfit.
-
March 12: Make art inspired by the weather.
-
March 13: Turn on a song that you love and draw whatever comes to mind while listening to that song.
-
March 14: Make a replica or your own version of a famous work of art.
-
March 16: Play Exquisite Corpse. See here for instructions.
-
March 17: Play Art Remix with Google’s Imagen Generative AI. Imagen uses descriptive prompts to generate new versions of images.
-
March 18: Make art with natural or found materials.
-
March 19: Download the Art Transfer Google App. Art Transfer allows you to transform your photos with inspiration from famous artists.
-
March 20: Use a magnifying glass or the zoom/enlarge feature on your phone camera to discover a unique texture. Use this as inspiration for some kind of art.
-
March 21: Make art inspired by sports or dance.
-
March 22: Make a tiny or miniature piece of art.
-
March 23: Make a giant or oversized piece of art.
-
-
March 25: Create a self portrait.
-
March 26: Fill a piece of paper by writing the same word repeatedly OR making the same mark or shape repeatedly.
-
March 27: Paint with your fingers.
-
March 28: Find a photograph or an image showing a face from the front (ie both sides should be fairly symmetrical). Use a ruler or straight-edge to draw a vertical line down the middle, then cut the image in half. Glue half of the face on a new piece of paper, then draw the missing half.
-
March 29: Make something that makes you smile or laugh.
-
March 30: Illustrate a word or mantra.
-
March 31: Think/write/talk about this experience. What did you enjoy making the most?
by frosted flamingo | Jan 31, 2024 | Blog
Last night I hosted a workshop called Crafting for Mental Health. Participants included physician’s assistants, nurses, paramedics, pediatricians, lab techs, and administrators. We made Valentine-themed cards, and people who have been working within the same building (for years!) connected for the first time. The purpose of the event was to provide an opportunity to improve mood and lower stress through crafting, so in honor of Valentine’s Day, this post expands on the connection between art and mental health. Making art is a form of self care, and even if you don’t consider yourself an artist or regularly make art, by engaging creative activities (ie museums, festivals, etc.) you are bolstering your mind and spirit.
Art Reduces Stress
In 2016, researchers Ray and Muniz published results from an experiment in Art Therapy Journal. In their study, they found that cortisol levels dropped for 75% of participants during and after crafting. After crafting, participants felt they had learned something new, persevered through something challenging, and lost themselves in the process.
What is happening in our head when we make art?
When we make art, we use the cortex of the brain, which stimulates critical thinking and problem solving. As we use the cortex, more neuropathways are created, and we rely less upon the amygdala (the part of the brain responsible for flight or flight response). Achieving a “flow state” or being in “the moment” helps us to regulate or process our emotions. In addition, repetitive actions (like crafting or making art) release neurotransmitters that promote joy and a sense of well being, and being creative specifically stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for joy and pleasure (often associated with exercise).
If that’s not enough…
Research shows that arts and crafts:
- improve mood, confidence, and self esteem
- hone gross and fine motor skills
- slow cognitive decline
- lower blood pressure
Making art is not only fun, it’s good for you. Happy Valentine’s Day.
by frosted flamingo | Dec 20, 2023 | Blog
Instead of making that boring new year’s resolution that you always make and don’t keep (ie lose weight, make new friends, sleep more etc.) resolve to be creative in 2024! This is a low commitment resolution that anyone can do, and I’ll tell you how.
1). Keep a Doodle Journal
For those with 9-5 desk or office jobs, this one is for you. Make art while being paid. All you need is a journal and writing/drawing utensil of your choice. You might be surprised by what you put down on paper in that 3 hour brain-melting meeting.
2). Make Homemade “Thank You” Cards
If you have a list of post-holiday thank you cards to write, this is the perfect way to multitask. Your card recipients will be so impressed by your creativity, and of course, saying thank you for gifts is always appreciated. Furthermore, there is nothing like a good old fashioned hand-written note (when the majority of people are just sending emails).
3). Make a Large Scale Abstract Painting
Use whatever paint you have on hand! House paint, washable kids’ paint, even nail polish will do in a pinch! Find the largest canvas or sturdy paper available and drip, pour, splatter and swipe! Everything looks good on a large scale and if you pop a black frame on your finished artwork, this piece can hang anywhere!
4). Customize Your Pint Glasses
Try your hand at etching! All you need is some Etching Foam (available online) and tape or vinyl. If you want to get really fancy, you can cut your own stencils with a Cricut, but abstract designs with electric tape will also look neat. Your pint glasses will look fabulous and you can take pride in knowing that no one else has the same glassware!
5). Up-Cycle Old Jewelry
Last but not least, unstring beads from old necklaces and create new and improved jewelry creations. Elastic nylon cord works with most small beads, or you can try using lightweight jewelers’ wire.
And boom, just like that, you have incorporated art into your life! So easy, right?
by frosted flamingo | Nov 9, 2023 | Blog
The holidays are here and there are too many gift choices to count! Here are our top picks from our shop and event calendar. We’ve got something for everyone on your list!
For the baby:
Purchase a Baby Bird Art session for the littlest artist in your life! We’ll be hosting this popular series at the Art Spot on Tuesday mornings starting in December and continuing into the new year. Participants can drop in anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m to enjoy creative sensory stations along with a featured project.
For the toddler:
Choose a Sensory Kit! Our sensory boxes are designed to spark creativity and innovation in your little one, while making your life easier! Choose from 8 different themes, including: The Beach Bum Box, the Creepy Crawlers Box, The Spring Showers Box, The Celebration Box, The December Box, The Love Box, and more! Order online or purchase in person at The Art Spot.
For the kid:
Try a Painted Trucker Hat Kit! Our painted trucker hats are popular for all ages! The kit includes one hat (choose between adult or child size), 5 fabric paints (red, orange, yellow, green, blue), one themed stencil set, and 3 paintbrushes. Customize your own stencil set or add more paint for an additional fee.
For the teen:
Consider our Intention Jar Kit. A perfect present for the reflective teen in your life. First, decorate a jar with the included collage materials. Then think about and write down 12 goals or intentions. The final step is to create a key with symbols, and decorate your popsicle sticks accordingly. This is a fun project and an excellent visual reminder to stick to your goals!
For the adult:
Make a customized etched glass! Our Etched Glasses are a fun and (surprisingly) easy craft. The results are beyond satisfying, and you can even run your finished product through the dishwasher! Choose between a stemless wine, whiskey, or pint glass, and a range of stencil options or customized your own.
by frosted flamingo | Sep 28, 2023 | Blog
As the weather turns, it’s time to stock up on craft supplies! Before shopping, brainstorm ideas for thoughtful DIY holiday gifts and projects for snowy days, and create a shopping list (so you’re not tempted to buy everything)! Here are 3 simple projects (using pantry staples) to get you started. Happy crafting!
Cinnamon Sugar Body Scrub
You can spend an armload at the store and buy a pre-made mix OR you can spend virtually nothing and use ingredients you already have at home! Gather the following to get started: mason jars (preferably 4 oz), granulated sugar, vanilla, coconut oil and cinnamon. Mix 1/2 cup sugar with 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. After blending, transfer the mix to the mason jar and add your own label. For a professional touch, tie a cinnamon stick on the lid with red and white twine.
Dried Orange Slice Wreath
Making your own dried orange slices is fun and easy, and the results are beautiful. Plus, if you live in a dry place, these things will last for years! Simply follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees.
- Place parchment paper on a cookie sheet, and a wire drying/cooling rack over the parchment.
- Spray the drying/cooling rack lightly with cooking spray.
- Slice your oranges as thinly as possible.
- Pat each side of the orange slices with a paper towel, then transfer them to the drying rack.
- Bake the slices for 1 hour, then flip and bake for 1 more hour.
- After 2 hours, check your orange slices every 5 minutes to see if they’re done. *They can burn easily, so monitor closely!*
- Once the slices are dry, remove them from the oven, and allow them to finish drying on the rack overnight.
- After 24 hours, add some twine and hang the slices in a window, over a fireplace, or around a tree!
3D Paper Pumpkins
Just in time for Halloween, these pumpkins won’t rot and all you need is paper, glue, a hole puncher and string! After gathering your materials and tools, Stack and fold 3 sheets of paper in half, then use scissors to cut out a half circle (with the flat side along the folded edge). Gently separate the sheets or cut circles, then use a glue stick to apply glue to the outer faces of each folded circle. Arrange the circles into a sphere and press the glued faces together. Punch a hole through the top, string pipe cleaner through the hole and curl the pipe cleaner ends. It’s a paper pumpkin!
by frosted flamingo | Aug 7, 2023 | Blog
A Few of My Favorite (Local) Visual Artists
I love learning about and meeting local artists. Sometimes they are easy to find and sometimes not! It’s important to know about and support these artists, because they directly and indirectly influence the vibrancy of our communities and the availability and depth of our creative resources. I recently learned that a few of my favorite small businesses have been forced into extinction, and that serves as an urgent reminder to continue supporting and celebrating the local makers and entrepreneurs we know and admire. Here is a snapshot of a few of my favorite local artists. Purchase their work, take their classes, and spread the word!
Explore the Works of Pamela Churman
Pamela started making beeswax candles many years ago as gifts for family and friends and it became a life long love affair with all things beeswax. Recently, Pamela was looking for a fun art activity that anyone could enjoy with little or no experience when she discovered acrylic pour painting. She and her daughter starting experimenting with the medium and were quickly hooked. When Pamela is not in her studio creating, she is either on the lake or in the woods or dancing at a live music event. She is a member of the Silverthorne Art Board and a co-owner and operator of the Sausage Queen food cart. She has three grown children and four amazing grandkids that she spends as much time with as possible.
Check out Erica Donaghy’s Beautiful Landscape Paintings
Erika started painting in 2017 after taking a watercolor workshop with friends and was immediately hooked. Making art changed the way that Erika saw the world; and allowed her to find greater appreciation in the beauty of the tiny details along the trail, and that is the feeling she hopes to give viewers through her work. While watercolor began her artistic journey, Erika also creates functional pottery, murals and teaches art classes.
Purchase Ingrid Davis’ Handmade Clothing and Accessories
Local artist Ingrid Davis, known as Kiki, is the founder, designer and maker of Simple Art Studio. Davis is from Guatemala and founded Simple Art Studio in 2021 as a way to work through depression and create art with others. Davis’ art interests include sewing, painting, drawing, sculpting, block printing and jewelry. Her husband Derrick also helps the Simple Art Studio on larger art pieces and woodworking projects. Simple Art Studio is inspired by the Davises multicultural family, with work reflecting their inclusive beliefs and culture.
Get inspired by Melissa Michel’s Sgraffito Pottery
Melissa Michel earned her BFA at the university of Tennessee Martin focusing in ceramics and has been working in clay for over 15 years. She has taught and worked in several ceramic studios across the nation, settling in Summit County and teaching at BCA. Melissa draws from traditional clay methods she has studied to create unique pieces that range from functional vessels to sculptural installations. Her use of sgraffito allows her to transform the clays surface into a language of mark making, pattern and texture to convey an illustrated meditation. She brings inspiration from Ancient Mexican art and North American Indian motifs, creating one of a kind pieces that reflect an occupied mind consumed by line and design.
Enjoy the Work of Woodworker Ben Whitmore
Ben Whitmore has been a carpenter, designer, and maker in the creative and theatrical spaces for 20 years. He was previously the Technical Director for Theatre SilCo where he honed his skills as a theatrical technician and artistic maker. Now he runs Bardic Mountain Workshop, his custom carpentry and woodworking business. Ben teaches woodworking and supervises the woodshop at the ArtSpot while also teaching classes and related skills to woodworkers of all skill levels. Outside of the woodshop, Ben enjoys board games, movies, and all things GEEK… especially Dungeons and Dragons! He has a YouTube channel called Peak D&D, dedicated to his love of D&D and being a geek in the mountains! Check out his website here.
Celebrate the Talent of Ceramic Artist Donna Causland
Causland is an accomplished porcelain artist and has worked in clay for over 50 years. She has completed various international artist residencies and sells her work at farmers markets, local stores and online. Donna’s business, The Glaze Spot, offers a wide variety of pottery forms for decorating, including cups, bowls and platters. Additional forms for children such as animal bowls and tea sets are also available, and the Glaze Spot is a great option for painting parties and more!
PS: If you don’t know where to start, check out The ArtSpot Makerspace in Silverthorne, Colorado. Some of the above artists have studios in this space, others teach classes here, and others simply sell their work.
