"Treasured Memories" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Sherry Matthews

My mother, my children, and I enjoyed a quick trip to the beach last October. Our time together was short-but, the memories we made will last a lifetime.

Memories are the most treasured souvenirs we gather from any destination traveled to and any moments shared.

It's sometimes surprising which memories remain the most vivid. While the beach itself was quite fantastic,  our time together laughing and talking was magical.  And oh, how we hunted for seashells! Paying particular attention to the broken and usually less-desirable ones. Those were our favorites.

This heart is bejeweled with our seashore finds, just as my heart is full of treasured memories of our trip.

As I write this post, this "Souvenir Heart" is making it's way to my mother. It is my gift to her.

I love you, Mom!

Materials:
Relics & Artifacts® Chivalry
Apoxie Sculpt
Ice Resin
Iced Enamels Medium
Iced Enamels Turquoise
DecoArt Acrylic Paint
Tim Holtz vignette box
Tim Holtz IdeaOlogy Word Bands
Seashells
sand
coral
E6000
Letter Stamps

"The Struggle is Real" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Heather Thompson

The struggle is real. 

I am sure we all have had those moments in our creative worlds where our mojo just comes to a halt, where you hit a brick wall and no matter how hard you try, there is no tearing it down. There are so many causes of these creative blocks, whether it's family obligations, the weather, work, or just being in that slump where the ideas and inspiration are just not within reach. I have come across that issue, a brick wall, to stare endlessly at a project and think, "What now?"

I recently had the pleasure of attending an art retreat in Minneapolis. Thinking this would illuminate some brilliant ideas buried deep down in my brain, I had the thought that I was going to go way out of my comfort zone.  I was going to use products I normally don’t use, try techniques I wouldn't ever think of trying, colour palettes that I tend to run from, all because I have the resources and the experts there to guide and direct me if I happen to go astray. 

So I  took Andrea Demeng’s altered book class called “Literary Illusions".  I had seen her work so I had a general idea of what I wanted to do, until we got in the class.  Then it was all downhill from there. She is an amazing artist and has such a unique style. Maybe my expectations where too high, but let's just say it was not what I expected. And Andrea, she could see my frustration as the day progressed. Kudos to her for her ability to keep me encouraged and engaged and helped me throughout the day. I did come home with an unfinished project with all intentions to get right to it and get it done. 

The unfinished project was an altered book with a frame and even a window with a creative truffle tin featuring a face from Visage.  With that and an extra eyeball from a fellow attendee, I thought to myself, "Wow! I am going way out of the box on this one."

Some days, I would look at it and say, “Yep, I do kinda like it.  Maybe I will finish it today."  And then 10 minutes later, "Nope." I am still looking at it with a blank stare thinking that this might be one that ends up in the trash.  We all have those trash bins that welcome, with open arms, those “OMG!  I don’t dare show a single soul!” or “WTH was I thinking?!” moments of insanity.

As a result, I now have this celestial looking creature captured in the black abyss of ugly.  It sits on my desk, staring at me , taunting me to either put it out of its misery or get over myself and just get going on it. Hopefully, I can accomplish the latter but as we all have struggles from time to time, sometimes it is best to just step away and save it for another day. So for now, this will be set aside to stare at me a little bit longer. 

The struggle is real.

Supplies:
Relics & Artifacts® Visage
Apoxie Sculpt

"The Gypsies" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Chrissy Colon

"The Gypsies in the noisy throng
Stray Bessarabia around.
Today over the river, long,
They’re lodging in their tents, worn out.
Like freedom their night-resting is –
And peaceful sleep the heavens under.

Between the wagons’ tired wheels,
Covered with rugs, long-used in wonders,
A fire’s flamed. A family’s Preparing, round it, a dinner;
A horse is gazing in the fields, Is sleeping, free, a teamed bear-thriller.

Amidst the steppes all well lives: The peaceful tasks of families,
Ready by morning for a travel,
And songs of wives, and children’ weeps,
And ringing of a mobile anvil.

But now, over the Gipsy camp,
The dozing silence is prevailing,
And heard is, in the sleeping steppe,
Just a dog’s barking and steed’s neighing.

Extinguished is each single light,
All’s peaceful now. The moon is shining,
Alone in the heaven height, And at the quiet camp is lighting."
--Aleksandr Puskin "The Gypsies" (1824)

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Andromeda Mini Throne"
Relics & Artifacts® Dresden Trim "Daisy Chain Small Gold"
Mod Podge
Liquitex Gesso
DecoArt Acrylic Paint
Napkins

Poem retrieved from https://www.poetryloverspage.com/yevgeny/pushkin/gypsies.html

"Make a Wish on Butterfly Wings" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Lynne Moncrieff

Anyone who creates with RELICS & ARTIFACTS, surely are smitten with the fact that no matter the vignettes that swirl in our mind’s eye, there will be a RELICS & ARTIFACTS piece to transport a vague notion, into a completed project.   The scene in my head, of a butterfly child, was able to be manifested by pairing one of the smaller Papillon pieces with a Milagros. 

Make your way through the forest, where your footsteps are silenced from the cushions of moss which abound.   Can you spy the butterfly child?  They say the butterfly child is a chameleon, blending in to the backdrop of the moss as he rests against a tree trunk.  Sweet, berry coloured flowers burst in bloom.  Kneel down and place your cheek against them, the petals will give your cheeks velveteen kisses. 

An Archival Wooden Case allowed me to create a setting for the butterfly child. With Infusions (crystals colours with walnut ink base) and Moss Painted Finishes Kit, the case suddenly took the form of colours of a forest.

The Infusions were extended to several elements on this project, including the Papillon and Milagros.  By first applying a mere hint of Grungepaste, it heightened the sense of texture.  A final brushing of the Moss kit, merely brushing on and brushing off, left a hint of mossy-ness on the Relic.  The mottled effect suited the vignette.

The Milagros fit perfectly to the Papillon, with the placement of the wings giving the impression that they have sprouted from the Milagros, as well as the antenna.

When working with a theme relating to nature, I will often layer textural elements, most often found papers and torn textiles.  They capture that sense of bits of this ‘n’ that which might be caught up on a passing breeze and gathered around a tree trunk or caught in branches.  The butterfly child was layered onto calico, corrugated cardboard and lace, all of which had been stained by mopping-up the Infusions.  Torn pieces of silk sari ribbon, also stained, would flutter in the breeze.

A cluster of velveteen flowers were the perfect detail to add to the frame of the case, bringing interest and colour and most importantly, helping to set the scene for the butterfly child.  The final element was one of my stamped Affirmations, stamped onto some pieces of previously stained book pages. 

Why not seek out a butterfly today and make a wish!

Supply List:
RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Papillon
RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Milagros
RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Velveteen Flowers Tangerine Berry Blossom
RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Archival Wooden Case II
That’s Crafty Clear Stamp Set Lynne’s Affirmations Set 1
PaperArtsy Infusions
PaperArtsy Grungepaste
Plaid FolkArt Painted Finishes Kit - Moss
Memento Ink Tuxedo Black
Golden Gesso
GoldenGel Medium
found papers
various laces
sari silk ribbon
calico

"Follow Your Heart" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Milagros Rivera

We all have it within us, a need to look to the skies above, a need to improve ourselves, be better, set goals and reach them.  We just need to follow our heart and reach for the stars!

As always, the Relics & Artifacts® pieces have a way of whispering which direction they want to take me.  I debated on this one as I had two possible choices that would lead me through different paths. By incorporating Seth Apter's new die, I had the perfect platform to work the Relics.   I envisioned the hands, holding a fragile gold thread, representing the good in our lives.  This one was dictated by Cat Kerr's stamp, "follow your heart". 

When I was little, my dad used to call me Sol.  He would say, "Oh the sun is out!" I don't know if it was because my hair was really blond or because I was a very early riser, but I have very fond memories and those prompted this next piece

I decided to add Cat's stamp,s"he flies with her own wings", both in Latin and in English. I also gave her wings.

(One last close up.)

As on my night version, I added stars here as well.  You'll be able to follow along on Snapguide for the first piece!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® Archival Case Wood Tray I
Relics & Artifacts® Milagros
Seth Apter "Ray of Light" die set
Cat Kerr "Follow Your Heart" stamp
Cat Kerr "She Flies With Her Own Wings" stamp
The Crafter's Workshop paints
The Crafter's Workshop white gesso
fabric
chipboard

"Spring is Sprung" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Sherry Matthews

The changing of the season is a bit like a changing of the guard.  Perennial bulbs begin emerging ceremoniously through the blanket of winter's debris, ready to stand at attention and mark the reveal of possibilities that "spring" forth. Mother Nature hoists her colors of blooms and foliage.  And my green thumb has sprouted.

These flaming heart pots were created to coordinate with the colors and style of my garden. But like Michael Franti said, " Every flower got a right to be blooming."

There are numerous ways to incorporate Relics & Artifacts® resin blanks into your personal patio decor. Papillon butterflies would be amazing on whimsical stakes fluttering above a plant or two and for a classical and elegant look, how about a piece from Facia Familiaris or a set of wings attached to a pot, all painted to resemble marble or terra cotta? 

Apoxie Sculpt is great for outdoor use too! It can be used to attach the resin blanks directly to the pots or to make plant markers and other adornments. 

To help you along, I've put together a quick Snapguide tutorial because with so many fabulous Relics & Artifacts® pieces to choose from,  you are really only limited by your imagination!

Materials:
Relics & Artifacts® Flaming Hearts Ex Votos I
Apoxie Sculpt
DecoArt Patio Paints
 

Day 7 with That's Crafty! and A Recap with RELICS & ARTIFACTS®

What an amazing week it has been here at Relics & Artifacts®.  This week, we had the opportunity to collaborate with another company and show the world just how versatile not only Relics & Artifacts® craft blanks are but how equally versatile the products offered by That's Crafty! out of the United Kingdom are.  We were able to work with MDF and acrylic pieces, stencils, stamps and really flex our creative muscles.

We find inspiration and creativity in places we least expect it and in arenas we swore we'd never enter. 

 Day 1:  "Inspiration in Unlikely Places" by Chrissy Colón

All week long, we showcased individual works from each of the Relics & Artifacts® Ambassadors in a parade of creativity, vision, and one of a kind design, like simple everyday items which become intrinsic to our identities and personalities.

Day 2:  "Glasses With A Story" by Milagros Rivera

We can rediscover our own spirituality or possibly be inspired by another culture's beliefs systems.  With art and inspiration, there are no wall, no boundaries.

Day 3:  "Ganesha" by Monica Downing

Thoughtful affirmations struck chords within our hearts and caused us to take a step back and truly believe in the power within ourselves to just reach for the stars.

Day 4:  "The Stars" by Lynne Moncrieff

Poetry married with mixed media breathed new life into the basic substrates laid before us.  A vision and a story begin to form and our hearts are unveiled.

Day 5: "The Heart, Unveiled" by Sherry Matthews

Finally, art and the blending of items within our creative arsenal can take us on a journey through time.  We can go back to times long forgotten and rediscover the timeless treasure of inspiration.

Day 6: "Ancient Rome" by Heather Thompson

You see, what this collaboration and celebration of creativity with That's Crafty! has done, is spark a new flame and opened a new realm of possibilities within our own creative selves.  We were challenged and thus inspired to look at substrates we would not necessarily have thought to pair with Relics & Artifacts® and breathe new life into not only our creative souls, but our imaginations.  From this collaboration came pieces we had not dared to try or ideas that were merely ideas collecting dust in our proverbial rolodex of thoughts.

We hope this week has been as inspiring to all of you as it has been for us.  The ladies over at That's Crafty! were a pure joy to partner with and we were honored to work with each of them.  Please be sure to visit That's Crafty! today and see what Lynne Moncrieff has in store on this final day of our creativity celebration. 

Don't forget to visit each day's post and leave a comment to be entered in our giveaway.  A winner will be drawn Monday and will receive **3** sets of Relics & Artifacts® Matte Resin Craft Blanks of their choosing. 

Cheers!

Day 6 with That's Crafty! and Inspiration from Ancient Rome with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Heather Thompson

Day 6 of week-long celebration of Relics & Artifacts® and That's Crafty! is another day of stunning inspiration from Heather Thompson.  She takes us on a journey inspired by ancient Rome.  Read through her story and be sure to continue leaving love to be entered to win **3** Relics & Artifacts® sets of your choosing!

What an amazing week it has been with so much creativity and such unique projects. So now it's my turn to showcase my piece.

I absolutely love the Visage set but never had the nerve to try and put something together. So when I got my Acrylic Wall Hanging from That's Craft the creativity was just flowing. I loved how they cascade down so why not keep going with the flow?

I used some alcohol inks on the substrate until I got the desired marble effect, something well aged and vintage. Using Dresden Trim Silver Rosette to higlight the focal pointsreminded me of the laurel crowns of ancient Rome.

During Roman times the crowns were made with leaves of the bay laurel, and were worn as signs of victory and triumph. The faces of the Visage are so masculine, with the crackle aged look, it adds to that feeling of the great empire that was Rome.  The crisp background of muslin and texture remind us of tunics and calceus (open toed sandals) against the back drop of aged marble.

As I look at this piece I  am think of lost Roman treasures around the town of Cosenza in southern Italy that have been overlooked and eventually by the passage time.

What a remarkable journey back in time!  Don't forget to return to present day and leave a comment to be entered to win!  Also, you won't want to miss the fun on the That's Crafty! blog as Donna Ragdoll has an eye popping piece of inspiration for you!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Visage"
Relics & Artifacts® Dresden Trim Rosette
That's Crafty! Surfaces Acrylic Rectangle Wall Hanging
Ranger Alcohol Inks
 

Day 5 with That's Crafty! and "The Heart, Unveiled" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Sherry Matthews

We are beginning the home stretch in our week-long party with That's Crafty!  What do you all think of both groups of rock stars so far?  It's been such a great feast for the eyes so far, so why stop now?  Today, we have Sherry Matthews with a piece that will cut straight to your heart not only visually buy symbolically as well. 

No beam outshines light from within one's soul,

Nor reflects more purely of words, yet told,

Nothing more powerful than the gilded hold,

That the heart has, once revealed.

No gift is greater than given attention,

No treasure more precious than love's first mention,

No act more heroic than the promised intention,

That the heart gives, once unveiled.

What a provocative and beautiful poem and piece!  Be sure to swing by the That's Crafty! blog to see what Fliss Goodwin has in store for you and remember to leave a comment on each day to be entered to win the prize at the end of the celebration!

Materials:
Relics & Artifacts® Ancient Soul
Relics & Artifacts® Chivalry
Relics & Artifacts® Dresden Trim, wrought iron (gold)
Relics & Artifacts Bohemian Jewels, aquamarine
Apoxie Sculpt
That's Crafty Surfaces, Acrylic Uprights-Arch (pack of 3)
That's Crafty Dinky Stencils, Moroccan background (TC069)
Viva! Mirror paint
Gilder's Paste(antique gold, german silver)
E6000 glue
Fabric glue
DecoArt Elegant Finish Paint in "Emperor's Gold"
DecoArt Acrylic Paint Black
Modelling paste, palette knife
Dremel tool, carving bit
Sari fabric scrap
Wood chess pieces

Day 4 with That's Crafty! and "The Stars" by RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Lynne Moncrieff

We are moving right along with our mash-up with That's Crafty! and today is no disappointment either!  Today, we have Lynne Moncrieff and a piece inspired by the stars.  It's loaded with so much texture, you'll wish you could touch it through your screen!  Remember to revisit each post this week, leave a comment, and cross your fingers that you are picked to be our winner of *3* Relics & Artifacts® Matte Resin Craft Blanks of your choosing!

One of many wondrous aspects of creating is when a gathering of supplies magically unveil a narrative, a vignette, bringing meaning to a project.  When the result has personal significance, even though it might not be evident to another’s eyes, that is when creating becomes a multi-layered experience.  This project is such a piece, with the personal significance of my relationship with Relics & Artifacts and That’s Crafty, both companies coming together in this week of collaborations.  I am in such a privileged position to be on the teams for both companies, companies whose products I adore, add to that, the honour of being in teams who are passionate about their creative lives. 

Relics & Artifacts constantly inspire and with a wide range of That’s Crafty surfaces available, it is a wonderful marriage when combining products from both companies.  Often, it is the Relics & Artifacts, whispering their stories into my ear that is the springboard for a project however, this time, the journey began with a stamp, one of my That’s Crafty Lynne’s Affirmations, “Always believe the stars are within your grasp”. 

It is easy, in this world, to become jaded; positive words can seem cliche.  But my belief, Affirmations can surely do no harm so long as the intention is always from an honest place and used appropriately.   The realisation that a Relics & Artifacts Milagros hand paired with the Affirmation stamp, could come together in the form of a shrine, thanks to a That’s Crafty Art Shrine.

In life, we truly are on a journey and as with any journey, no matter the distance, it is not always the smoothest of rides, yet we keep our focus on the destination. This I tried to convey with the elements I brought together such as the Infusions stained corrugated cardboard scrap, set in the niche of the shrine, a symbol of ruts in the road.  Dipping into a Rust Painted Finished kit, I set about altering the silver star Dresden Trim into rusty stars. The contrast of the Diamond Bohemian Jewels on the rusted stars gracing the arch of the shrine, represent the shining light of hope we should try to keep within us.  Barely seen on the face of the shrine and look closely, stamped onto wispy pieces of mop-up paper (Infusions stained kitchen paper towel) are stars.

Lives are busy but it would be wonderful if you found time to visit each Relics & Artifacts and That’s Crafty collaboration project.  Each team artist has created inspirational art with their individual styles shining through.  Today, Nikki Acton has an awe inspiring piece in monochromatic splendor for you.

Supplies:
Relics & Artifacts® Milagros
Relics & Artifacts® Dresden Trim Star Chain Silver
Relics & Artifacts® Bohemian Jewels - Diamond
That’s Crafty Surfaces Matchbox Arch Art Shrine
That’s Crafty Clear Stamp Set – Lynne’s Affirmations Set 1
PaperArtsy Fresco Finish Chalk Acrylics: Seth Apter Set 1 (Buff, Midnight)
PaperArtsy Grungepaste
PaperArtsy Infusions: Sleight Blue, In The Navy
Plaid Folkart Painted Finished Kit - Rust
Golden Gesso, Matte Gel Medium
Staz-on Jet Black Ink

Extras: star shell button, black cotton sewing thread, re-cycled cardboard ribbon spool, motif cut from vintage doily, rusty tin wire, re-cycled corrugated box packaging, calico, various Infusions stained laces and mop up papers

Day 3 with That's Crafty! and "Ganesha" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Monica Downing

We are kicking of day 3 of our supercharged collaboration with the very dynamic team of That's Crafty!.  This entire week is devoted to showcasing how perfectly Relics & Artifacts pairs with the glorious inventory of That's Crafty!.  As with most big events, we love a little bribery to get you to party with us because we never turn down a good time!  How does a chance to win *3* sets of Relics & Artifacts® Matte Resin Craft Blanks of your choosing sound?  Absolutely sinful, right?  Keep reading to find out how to be entered!

In the meantime, we have Monica Downing's absolutely exquisite, exotic and everything exciting project here for you today. 

I am really excited to share this project with you all!  I finished this piece some time ago, and let me tell you.  It's been like pins and needles just waiting to be able to share it.  I'm telling you, absolutely excruciating!  I may have even considered just doing shots to calm my impatience and just chill.

I had actually had this idea for a long time. When I received the clear acrylic uprights from That’s Crafty!, it was the PERFECT vehicle for what I wanted to do. It was like finally scratching that pesky itch that you just couldn't reach!  Bring in Relics & Artifacts® Egg Shrine and it's like a full body massage!

Now, a little history lesson on Ganesha along with an intellectually stimulating diagram illustrating his illustrious symbolism (some deep stuff right here):

Ganesh, also spelled Ganesa or Ganesha, is the Lord of Good Fortune who grants prosperity, fortune, and success to his followers. He is considered the Lord of Beginnings, and the Remover of Obstacles, both materially and spiritually. He also places obstacles in the path of those who need to be put in check.  (He's gangster like that.)

Because he is a jack of all trades (and clearly a master of all), Ganesh is widely respected by almost all levels of society in all parts of India, regardless of any other spiritual affiliations (Once again showing just boss he is!).  His image is found everywhere, in many different forms, and he is prayed to before starting of any task.

He is considered to be a patron of the Arts, Sciences and Letters. Devotees believe that if Ganesha is worshiped, he grants success, prosperity, and promotes unity in diversity.  Sounds like a cool dude to me!

The more you know, right?  We all have learned something new today!  Thank you so much for embarking on this lesson in history, culture, and spirituality.  What an amazing project and lesson.  Who knew what a remarkable place in such a deity held in Eastern society? 

Now for the giveaway!  If you've been following along each day, that's great!  You are well on your way to being entered into the giveaway.  All you need to do is be sure to visit the Muse each day this week and leave some love.  It's that easy, and we like easy!  Also be sure to hit up the That's Crafty! blog because they have a li'l something' somethin' up their sleeves too! 

Today, Alison Hall inspires us on the That's Crafty! blog.

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Egg Shrine"
That’s Crafty! Clear Acrylic Upright-mixed pack of 3
That’s Crafty! Dinky Stencil – Fleur
Ice Resin Iced Enamels – Ivory
DecoArt Acrylic Paint
Ganesha Printable
Gold Leafing
Gold pen
Large Metal Filigree Embellishment.
Large pink flower

Information Source:
"The Hindu God Ganesh: Who Is This Elephant Headed Deity Anyway?" Retrieved from http://www.kashgar.com.au/articles/ganesh.

Day 2 with That's Crafty! and "My Glasses: A Story" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Milagros Rivera

It's day 2 of our week-long shindig with the lovely ladies of That's Crafty! in the United Kingdom.  All week, we are partying it up with fabulous projects featuring That's Crafty! melded seamlessly withRelics & Artifacts®.  Be sure to follow along with us all week because there is a giveaway at the end of the celebration!  Keep reading for details.

Today, we have Milagros Rivera and does she have an awesome story to tell!

Since I was little, my mom used glasses.  She actually has had to wear them since her teens. I was the designated companion to help her pick her prescription frames.  She always purchased an inside pair and an outside pair.  And they were BIG!!!! II loved being able to help her make the decision and I secretly loved trying them.  She wouldn't let me try her glasses because she was afraid the prescription would hurt my eyes, but in the store it was game time!

Come of age is here and now it's my turn to need glasses and to bring my daughter with me, and I totally know she has the same fun experience because she tries dozens every time she comes with me!

Back in January for Creativation, I had the pleasure of seeing Sandra again and to meet for the first time fellow Art Sisters, Monica Downing, Cat Kerr and Heather Thompson.  My current choice of glasses reflect those treasured trips I with my mom to eye doctor. I enjoy them immensely and they have an effect on people I can't describe.  They are a conversation piece of sorts and I have ended up talking with a lot of people because of them.  So when the time came to do my collaboration piece I decided to go with this Visage piece I hadn't used and make a me of sorts on the That's Crafty substrate!

Besides giving you a closer look to my textures (I made you a Snapguide) I will give you a closer look at all the people that wore them while in Phoenix!

Gorgeous Sandra Evertson sporting the look!

Switcheroo between Monica and me!

 Heather Rocking it!!!

Yes Cat wore them too!

Jamie Dougherty looking great!

Yes! Dyan Reaveley was also wanting to try them too! Turns out we have the exact same prescription!

As you can see we had a lot of fun, and I thought my post had to reflect that equally! Who knows?  Maybe you'll get to meet me and rock my glasses as well!  Enjoy the next post over That's Crafty!

Now for the giveaway details!  Be sure to follow our celebration of all things Relics & Artifacts® and That's Crafty! all week.  Visit the Muse for inspiration, leave some love along the way, and be entered to win ***3*** sets of Relics & Artifacts® Matte Resin craft blanks of your choosing!

Be sure to visit the That's Crafty! blog and see the beautiful project Carol Fox has in store for you today!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Visage"
Relics & Artifacts® "Regalis"
That's Crafty! MDF Upright "Decorative Top"
That's Crafty! Dinky Stencil "Floral Background"
Apoxie Sculpt
DecoArt Dazzling Metallics
DecoArt Americana Acrylics
DecoArt Metallic Lustre
The Crafter's Workshop White Gesso
The Crafter's Workshop Modeling Paste
 

A Team Up and "Inspiration in the Most Unlikely Place" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Chrissy Colon

This next week is going to be a week that is absolutely jam packed with inspiration from both sides of the pond!  Relics & Artifacts® is teaming up with our friends from That's Crafty! in the United Kingdom for an overload of creativity, inspiration, and did we mention a giveaway?  More on that at the end of the post!  So without further ado, let's get this party started!

First up this week, is Relics & Artifacts® Ambassador Chrissy Colon with a colorful project inspired by one of our resident muses, Frida Kahlo.

How exciting is this?  We got a chance to play with products from That's Crafty! and they did not disappoint!  For my project, I chose to use the plain MDF board and some fun little bits Laura was kind enough to send in our packages. 

Now for an earth shattering fact about me: I love comfort.  I love comfort foods, comfy blankets, comfort zones.  I love comfort zones so much, that I never realize that I am fully entrenched in one, until something like this comes along.

Little known fact about me:  I am very comfortable with is working under pressure.  There is nothing like a looming deadline to really push your creativity to its limits.  I recently saw some images that inspired me to want to do something in the Mexican folk art vein.  I love talavera and the simplicity of color.  I love that imperfections are embraced and that there really isn't a wrong way to paint such patterns.

Another little known fact about me:  My favorite color is red.  But I never use it in my crafting because it terrifies me when I start slapping it down.  Do you know how hard it is to make sure red paint doesn't look like blood smears or splatter?  This piece is all sorts of covered in red!  And it doesn't even look like something that just fell out of CSI!

And yet another little known fact about me (get ready to clutch your pearls and shoot me some mean side eye):  I am not a Frida Kahlo fan.  I know, right?  In our little universe of creativity it seems so sacrilegious, so blasphemous.  I always told my friends, "You won't see a Frida piece come from these hands."  ::insert walk of shame::  So what happened today?!  I have no clue but I reveled in it.  The unfamiliarity, the breaking down of walls and barriers, the joyous feeling of a mind reopening, it all felt so fresh and so new!  I found myself on Etsy browsing all the Frida things.  The result?  Pure, simple, magic.

Now about that giveaway!  Follow along all week, visit the Muse and the That's Crafty! blog, leave some love on each day and be entered to win *3* Relics & Artifacts® sets of your choosing!  At the end of the week-long event, we will choose a winner!  If you are really looking for some extra fun, That's Crafty! is also hosting a giveaway as well so be sure to follow along with them too! 

The ever so talented, Moira, is the first on the That's Crafty! team to share in the fun!  Be sure to give her some love from the Relics & Artifacts® side of the house!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Ex Votos I" (sold out but any heart will do)
That's Crafty! MDF Panels
That's Crafty! MDF Hearts #3
That's Crafty! MDF Panel #1
That's Crafty! Dinky Stencil "Moroccan Background"
Iced Enamels "Garnet"
Iced Enamels "Chartreuse"
Iced Enamels "Turquoise"
Iced Enamels "Amethyst"
VervePrint "Frida Kahlo Part 1"
Cemerony "Frida Kahlo Cuffs"
Liquitex Acrylic Paint
Copic Multiliner
 

"A Gentle Heart is Tied With an Easy String" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Milagros Rivera

Inspiration is a unique thing. I can never tell how it magically happens, but it certainly lets its presence be known.  It all started with a humble canvas stitched book and then it took on a life of its own.  This past Spring break, I spent a few days in the company of a dear friend.  She is a doll collector and her home is surrounded by the most beautiful faces.  Everywhere you look there's a dress, a hairdo, a smile that captures my fancy.  While driving back home, this little doll house dream began to take shape and I couldn't wait to get to my studio to create!

I started with the sweetest face from the Relics & Artifacts® Persona set. I loved the chubby cheeks and thought it would be the best accessory for my first page.  I tea stained and stamped to my heart's content.  

I continued with the tea and stamping, hand stitched the lace and drew a doll.  I played like a little girl with old remnants of laces and ribbons I have been collecting for years.  Then with the leftover muslin bag from my tea bag I dressed the Relics & Artifacts®  doll .  I used Cat Kerr's stamp, "Brave Heart", to tell a story of bravery and survival of the little doll and her girl

I continued onto the next page continuing to use Cat's stamps. She embodies the title of my book, "The Gentle Heart", with her sweet face.  She carries a bouquet of Sandra's velveteen blooms that was hand stitched to her tiny hands

My last page on the book is devoted to this majestic angel to remind me of the courage to believe in myself and to always now that, "Yes, I can, and so can you!"  Be inspired and let your imagination take a hold of your heart!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® Persona
Relics & Artifacts® Spirit Treasures
Relics & Artifacts® Tangerine Berry Blossoms
Canvas Corp Stitched book (6x12)
Cat Kerr stamps
Laces, Ink, Coffee and tea

"Inspired By Others" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Chrissy Colon

Have you ever seen something that was made by someone else and felt the compulsion to pretty much copy it?  I know we all have and I am not immune to such a desire either.  Earlier this year, I watched and shared in the joy the one of my best friends was finally getting a chance to check something off of her "Artsy Fartsy Bucket List".  Monica was going to Creativation 2017 (formerly known as CHA)!  I was so excited for her!

We chatted and Skyped into the late night hours over projects that needed to be made and people she was going to meet.  One of the projects she came up with, she actually wore it at the show and it was brilliant. 

She so brilliantly took the small butterfly from the Papillon set and made a ring out of it!  As soon as I saw hers, I knew I needed to make one for me.  So with her permission, I straight up copied her idea.

Okay, so it's not a direct rip on hers but still!  Straight.  Up.  Copied the idea.  We both used Iced Enamels and I sealed mine with Ice Resin while she finished hers off with some Bohemian Jewels.

I also used a fancy-shmancy ring blank I found at a craft store here on island, which now that she's seen the finished ring, I'm sure I'll have to mail her some.  It's how we do things.

So you may be asking, "Why on earth is this crazy lady sharing a project she straight up copied?"  The answer is simple, my friends (cue The Most Interesting Man in the World's voice).  I don't always copy people's ideas, but when I do, I she's one of my BFF's and I always give due credit. 

Now Monica and I can totally be #twinning it on opposite sides of the globe!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Papillon"
Relics & Artifacts® Bohemian Jewels "Aquamarine"
Iced Enamels "Carnelian"
Iced Enamels "Turquoise"
Iced Enamels "Pewter"
Iced Enamels "Chartreuse"
ICE Resin
Apoxie Sculpt
Ring blanks

RELICS & ARTIFACTS® "From the Tribe" Guest Ambassador Teri Reed

This month's "From the Tribe" Guest Ambassador is world renown for her fun, whimsical, and eclectic styling.  She has inspired hundreds to pursue boldness in art, to be ecological aware, and to always be true to your Muse.  We were beyond honored when the amazing Teri Reed accepted our invitation to share her creativity with us.

Let's get to know Teri a little bit more.

My name is Teri and I live in the Central Valley in California with my husband and our many loved and rescued pets.  Our children are grown and busy with their own careers and lives, and although I did experience the “empty nest” syndrome it wasn't long before our spare rooms became my studio.  I am a Registered Nurse of over 20 years working in the Critical Care arena and I love my job.  It was the best decision I ever made to pick a profession I am so passionate about.  But when I leave the hospital at night the first thing on my mind is, “What am I going to create today?"  Working 12 hour shifts are long and hard as I get older,  but it allows me to enjoy many more days off to play.

I have always loved art, all types and kinds.  When I went to school they still taught classes like drawing and painting, jewelry making, ceramics and so on and I took every single one of them available.  So today the phrase “jack of all trades, master of none” rings true to heart.  I love all mediums and all types from art journals, of which I have at least 10 going at one time, mixed media and assemblage, painting with acrylics and watercolors. I even attempt some jewelry from time to time.  I have to say there is so much master talent out there that so graciously share their tips and how to's with us all, the sky's the limit or maybe more. 

I remember the first time I laid eyes on these Relics & Artifacts® blanks my head exploded with ideas and things I wanted to make, and still does.  When I see all the gorgeous art creations coming from this Tribe I'm just speechless with admiration.  I hope you enjoy my creation influenced by Teesha Moore to welcome Spring and brighten your day.

When thinking about what I would create, I knew one thing for sure.  It would be bright and full of color. I am so done with this crazy weather we all have been experiencing this year and I welcome Spring with open arms.

I have been inspired by so many artists, like Teesha Moore, Mary Jane Chadbourne, Linda Cain and many others that put such bright brilliant colors in their work. Now the hard part was choosing just 1 or 2 pieces from the Relics & Artifacts® line of matte resin craft blanks. So my choice? Faces and Wings, the trademark of many great artists.

When I began painting and assembling my piece, this wonderful woman began to emerge, showing herself proudly and strong, with paint brush in hand ready to tackle anything that comes her way. Thus my "Art Warrior" was born.

As I was writing about this piece I was saddened to hear that our very own Teesha Moore had fallen critically ill and is in the hospital. So I dedicate this "Art Warrior" to you, Art Sister, to represent strength and determination. We wish for you a speedy and complete recovery.

To assemble your very own Art Warrior tribute, Teri has graciously put together a Snapguide for you to follow along with. 

Our thoughts and sentiments echo alongside Teri and we wish Teesha a speedy, healthy recovery.  We here at Relics & Artifacts® also send warm hugs, love, light, and thoughts of healing to Teesha's family and friends.  Keep up the good fight, Art Sister and Art Warrior!

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Visage"
Relics & Artifacts® "Rising Spirit III"
Canvas
Acrylic Paints
Found Objects

"Caged Bird" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Sherry Matthews

"The caged bird sings with
A fearful trill of things unknown
But longed for still and his
tune is heard on the distant hill
For the caged bird sings of freedom."
~Maya Angelou

The inspiration for this piece came directly from my love of poetry.  While pondering the words of Maya Angelou, I twisted bits of rusty wire into a cage. With sepia ink, botanical images were stamped onto the bird.

After a little distressing, the finch was finished. Shreds of sheet music, representing song, form his nest.  This caged bird makes my heart sing.

Are you ever inspired by poetry?

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Finch"
DecoArt Media Crackle
rusty wire
tart tin
beaded chain
antiquing medium
sepia ink
tissue paper
sheet music
floral stamps

"Majestic Imperial Eggs" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Heather Thompson

With Easter fast approaching, I was inspired by all the festive eggs that I have seen all over social media!  The mix of styles, motifs, mediums, and inspiration was almost overwhelming.  I knew I had to put all of this inspiration to good use.  So, why not join in on the creativity but spice it up with some Imperial Eggs from Relics & Artifacts®!

I knew I wanted something pretty and elegant yet uniquely different. I usually try different techniques to make each piece more unique from the one before.

Because the Curious Ornate Egg Stand was slightly different in size, I did have to do some filling with the Apoxie Sculpt to make the pieces flow together seamlessly.  The end the result was pure perfection.

I hope this inspires some Majestic Imperial Eggs of your own to spice up your Easter decor.

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Imperial Eggs"
Relics & Artifacts® Dresden Trim "Daisy Chain"
Relics & Artifacts® Bohemian Jewels "Aquamarine"
Relics & Artifacts® Bohemian Jewels "Ruby"
Apoxie Sculpt
ICE Resin
ICE Resin German Glass Glitter Shards
ICE Resin Opals "Crystal Opal"
PaperWhimsy Curious Ornate Egg
Retro Cafe Art Gallery Collage Sheet
Stampin Up Creative Elements Stamp
DecoArt Media: Matte Medium, Tinting Base, Titan Buff, , Carbon Black, Titanium White Cobalt Turquoise Hue, Metallic Silver, Paynes Grey, Pyrrole Red, Metallic Green, Metallic Brown.

"Sweet Child of Mine" with RELICS & ARTIFACTS® Ambassador Monica Downing

When I was thinking about this piece, I kept thinking how outside of the box it was going to be for me, how I really wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone.  I challenged myself not to use color, which is a big deal for me. I have never done well with muted colors or white space. I just always want to fill up the space or splash some color on it in some way.

I can tell you that I am inspired by many, many artists, but when I see Lynne Moncrieff’s work, I am always in awe of how her pieces are just so beautifully put together. I envy her and other artists who are able to create with that palette.  Those who create these beautiful, romantic, time-worn, layered, vintage inspired pieces with subtle hints of color, just blow my mind.

THAT was my goal, time-worn, layered, vintage, soft, romantic. (Who MOI??)  I must say, this came together much easier than I thought it would.

As I started gathering my supplies, which are few, I started seeing the end result in my art brain and it just all happened. Before I knew it, I was done and honestly, I was so happy with how this piece came out and how easily it seemed to flow from my art brain to my finger tips to the final piece.  Now I want to create more of this type of work.

The really funny thing is, this piece goes perfectly in my family room. I have an industrial, shabby chic motif throughout most of my home. My studio decor and my home are like two completely different people live here. It’s like when I walk into my studio all of the color and brightness of it get my art juices flowing, and when I am in my family room, or bedroom, I am relaxed and unplugged, so I guess it’s a good balance.

Anyhow, go make something you may not think you are comfortable with. Go make something and push yourself outside of your “zone”. I have a feeling you will love the end result.

Supply List:
Relics & Artifacts® "Figureheads"
Relics & Artifacts® Bohemian Jewels "Diamond"
Ice Resin Iced Enamels "Ivory"
Wooden box                                                                
Wooden lamp finial
Tissue paper
Vintage tart tin
Vintage Ribbon
Vintage crochet doily

The 2nd Annual RELICS & ARTIFACTS® **International Talent Search**

It's time for our 2nd Annual INTERNATIONAL TALENT SEARCH!  Last year, we held our inaugural talent search contest, the first of its kind, and we received such a great response that we felt we needed to do it again!  Get ready to flex, massage, and work those creative muscles and put your mojo jivin' thinking caps on!  It's time to create the project of a lifetime!

The grand prize winner of this contest will have their credited artwork featured alongside the world renowned and uber-talented Relics & Artifacts® Ambassadors in our next printed ad campaign in Where Women Create® magazine! Where Women Create is published by Stampington & Company and is a best selling international craft magazine sold at major retailers like Barnes & Noble, Michaels Art Supplies, JoAnns, Target, Walmart, Amazon and more!  The winning piece of art will be professionally photographed for its inclusion in our full page print ad. 

What do you need to do?  Create a unique, brand new, never before seen work of art using Relics & Artifacts® matte resin craft blanks.  You can blend them or mix and match them to highlight the versatility and timelessness of the entire line. You can enter as many projects as you wish.  The winning entry will need to include brief stepped out photos, instructions, supplies list and a story of how your project came to fruition as the artist will also be featured as a Relics & Artifacts® Guest Ambassador on the Muse.

To enter simply join the RELICS & ARTIFACTS® TRIBE on Facebook and post your entries using the hashtag #RATalentSearch.  The deadline is May 31, 2017. Don't waste a minute and get started on your entries today. This is a great opportunity to launch your art career in a monumental way with a high profile Relics & Artifacts® ad campaign!

Good Luck to everyone and we can't wait to see what you come up with!