Monday, September 29, 2014

Getting to Know The Cre8ive Crew: Laney McDonald

Please give a warm round of applause to Laney!




She joins us from North Carolina. We asked her what her cre8ive passion is and she said, “Anything and everything colorful.  I really love stitching, by machine and by hand to create fiber/fabric art as well as crafting things to use such as bags, purses, aprons, pillows, quilts etc. I also enjoy curling up in the evenings with my sketchbook, markers and pens to make multicolored drawings.”

And we asked a few more questions so you could get to know her even better.

How often do you create?

Several  days a week unless it’s one of those times when I’m on a reading jag.  I seem to go in phases, reading for a while then creating for a while. I work full time so I am usually looking forward to the evenings and weekends when I can settle in create something.

How does it make you feel when you're creating something? 

Totally drawn in and time just flies by.  It’s also meditative and stress-relieving.

Describe your personality in three words.  

Quiet, creative, sensitive

How do you know when a piece is finished? 

It’s just a feeling I have. I just “know” – it is hard to explain.  Although sometimes I stop working on something for a while if I can’t figure out what it needs. Then later I may come back to it and know just what to do with it.

When/how did you realize your life had to have art in it? 

I have always loved everything creative and colorful since I was a little girl.  



Has being artistic changed your life or outlook in any way?  

I think being creative keeps me calm.

Give a couple of tips on how you stay organized. (This doesn't have to be about your art or studio, could just be life, office, kids...whatever) 

Making a list helps me keep organized and on track.  I like to make one at work every morning; I like to make a list if I have several things I want to get done over the weekend. It is very satisfying to mark things off the list as I do them!

What's your superpower?  

I love to find things when they are lost!

Do you believe that only some are creative or that everyone is creative in some way? Why? 

I believe that everyone is creative in one form or another.  There are so many ways to be creative – visual art, cooking, performing arts, home decorating, scrapbooking, gardening, etc.  The list is really endless.



Which side of the bed do you sleep on? Can you sleep if forced to change sides?  

Left.  Unless the cat is on the foot of the bed. Then I sleep on the diagonal.

If money were no object in what country, place, or on what planet would you live? ...and why?  

I have always loved the beach – there’s just something about the ocean and the salt air.


Whats your least favorite food? ...most favorite? 

The least favorite thing I have ever tried is snails; My favorite food is cake! (Unless it has nuts in it. Especially walnuts.  Although I love pecans in German Chocolate Cake icing). My favorite meal is steak, baked potato and a salad with French dressing.

Are you an introvert or extrovert? How do you feel about that? 

I am definitely an Introvert!  But I totally open up when I’m comfortable around people.  And I would say I’m happy about that.


More of Laney’s work can be found at:

Website: http://sugarplumpatchwork.com
Blog: http://sugarplumpatchwork.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/sugarplumpatchwork
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sugarplumpatchwork
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/laneymcdonald/

Friday, September 26, 2014

Getting To Know The Cre8ive Crew: Kim Hyer


Say hello to Kim!!



Kim is from Southern California and here is what she has to say about herself.

Who you are?

I am me, just me. Well at least that is my view. It changes. Some days I feel like I am simple, others I think I am complex a multi-faceted. I like many things. I love a few things.  I am pretty principled and passionate about them. I also detest a few things. I am just like everyone else. Somedays I feel common too.

Things I love:
1.      Spiritual way of life.
2.    My dog. Yes I said my dog.
3.    My art.

Things I like:
1.      My friends
2.    Motorcycle riding
3.    Traveling with my dog.
4.    Dressing up like a girl (occasionally)
5.     Helping others.

Things I do not like:
1.      People (most of them anyway)
2.    Mosquito bites.
3.    Exercise
4.    Dating.

 Where you are from?

My parentsThat is a long story. It is about a meat cutter ( my dad ), a meat wrapper (my Super G ) and her daughter. The rest is history. Needless to say this un-planned bundle was born in Hollywood, Ca. circa 1967.

What kind of art is your passion?

Oh, I am really not that picky. I have played with many mediums. I can make stained glass windows, pottery, sculpt, jewelry and chain making, painting, journal, mixed media. Art is a passion, a view, changing anything from ordinary. It is all about your perception. You can see it or you can not. You can be taught to see it. I think it comes from the small stillness inside each of us. Either you hear it and listen or you ignore it and fight your life’s purpose. It really isn’t complicated. It is surrender to your self. So, I guess now that I am way out in woo woo-ville. My passion is trying to follow that small stillness inside that makes things more true and beautiful.

How often do you create?

I try to do something everyday. If not I am always coming up with ideas or trash from the ground to add to a piece. It is in the forefront of my mind. Example: Driving on the 405 fwy in traffic, I think I need to get pencils so I can sketch them in the grey, pink and creamy colors. 

How does it make you feel when you're creating something?

I don’t feel per se. I just listen and do it. It isn’t a struggle. It just happens if I let it. If I am struggling I stop. The past several years my art/mess has this flow to it. I do not know how to describe it with words. It is just something that happens.

Describe your personality in three words.

Okay this is a loaded question. I say that because If you’re a stranger it is different than a friend, than family than the Beene (my dog).

Stranger – Standoffish, Intimidating, Aloof
Friend – Honest, Steadfast, Trustworthy
Family – Loving, Generous, Dependable
Beene – Snuggly, Kissable, Fun (she gave me pizza crust to say this)




How do you know when a piece is finished?

It just is…….I cannot explain it.

When/how did you realize your life had to have art in it?

It has always had art in it. So, I do not know another way of seeing.

 Has being artistic changed your life or outlook in any way?

Creating has expanded my perception. This quote hung in my room for many years.

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”  Marcel Proust

How's has your view of life (art) changed over the last 5, 10 years? 20 Years?

It is not so much that my art has changed. I do not look at it as something I do. It is about expressing who I am becoming.

Would you say your entire way of life is creative?

Is there any other way to live? Oh wait there is I just choose to listen.

Tell us how your creativity blends over into the rest of your life?

It is the way I see things. The way I do things. It just is…
Give a couple of tips on how you stay organized. (This doesn’t have to be about your art or studio, could just be life, office, kids...whatever)
I love to be organized. To be able to know stuff, remember things. Find       what I am looking for the first time. Well, I have a little moleskin book for my life. When I am disciplined I use it everyday, make lists, add subtract start new lists. When I am not, well good luck and who really cares anyway? I don’t think my epitaph will read “She was so organized her life was wonderful”.  Some times I am organized some times it is beautiful chaos.




What is your normal (bad word, none of us are normal) day like?

Ha Ha Ha. Normal is the cycle on the washer that I use for towels and sheets. For me now? I packed a suitcase a months ago, loaded my dog, a small art stash, joined AAA and we are off. So normal today will be odd   tomorrow. We are on a road trip. No normal here boss.

What’s your superpower?

It is secret, sorry.

How did you get started...who inspired you?

The most Julius Forzano.  He probably saved my life.


If you could pick one tool or supply to do more experimenting with what would it be?

Okay, I am spoiled. Yes I am really. If I see something I want I get it and play with it.

If you could hang out with any artist dead or alive who would it be and why?

I like Matisse but, would want to have him & Julius in the same studio together.

What's the worst job you ever had?

Step-mother

Do you believe that only some are creative or that everyone is creative in some way? Why?

It isn't about doing, or making. It is about being. It is about listening. When I make something or paint something of sculpt something. My soul is singing. If you’re not doing something that makes that song inside of you play so loud, you’re missing the point of the whole trip.

If you could change your name what would it be?

Jayne

Which side of the bed do you sleep on? Can you sleep if forced to change sides?

The one side opposite the pitbull. Yes, I sleep where I am allowed.

If money were no object in what country, place, or on what planet would you live? ...and why?

I think I would not want to live any one place. I would want to be a gypsy nomad type. I have been a lot of cool places all over the world but, there is so much more to explore.

What’s your least favorite food? ...most favorite?

I am not a “foodie”. Truth? I eat because I have to in order to live.

Are you an introvert or extrovert? How do you feel about that?

It really depends on our relationship.

Choose an imaginary friend who would it be and why?

I don’t need an imaginary friend. I have a dog.

What’s your most embarrassing moment? (Please keep it clean)

Pass. I am 25 years clean & sober Oh the embarrassing stories… Nope.

What's was your worst haircut? Please show us a pic....

I am a self hair cutter.   The best ones are from my childhood when I trimmed my bangs.

If we all came to your house for dinner what would you make for us?

Reservations.  Someplace nice, don’t get me wrong.  I am over the whole cooking, entertaining thing.


Find out more about Kim:

Website: www.apaperaddict.com
Blog: www.apaperaddict.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-Paper-Addict
Instagram: http://instagram.com/apaperaddict
Twitter: https://twitter.com/apaperaddict
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/apaperaddict/
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/55976252@N08/

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Cre8ive Kid Corner: Kitty Head Magnets

Today we venture into our Cre8ive Kids Corner!

Kitty Head Magnets by Kelly, Wren, and Willow Corso

In our family we are animal obsessed, especially when it comes to cats! 

We have 3, all of them all rescues. Some days my daughter Wren prefers to go by the name Miss Kitty.



This is a great project for all ages (even you moms and dads!). Younger kids may need a bit of assistance.  It is super fun and very tactile. 

Here are the materials you need: 


Supplies
  • Crayola Model Magic- an air dry clay in any colors you choose
  • small magnets
  • glue- I like to use Loctite super glue because it dries really fast (shown above)


Sizing of clay.

First you are going to roll several different size balls. 

I usually make the head ball approximately 1” and the rest of the balls in proportion with the head ball. (As seen below) You can make them bigger if you like!  

1 head ball, 2 cheek balls, 1 nose ball, 2 ear triangles and a little tongue ball if you choose. Then stick them all on the head ball in their proper places. 

Once they have air dried for about 24 hours you can glue them onto your magnets. I really like the Loctite glue because it dries in about 30 seconds. 

Once you start to assemble it's a good time to talk with the younger ones and ask them questions. 

Where do cats' ears go? 

Where are their little cheeks? 

I encourage my girls to experiment with different colors or different shaped ears--to just go wild!. 



Kelly's kids with their Kitty Magnets.


You will get super happy kids and lots of smiles if you encourage imagination. Tell them you love that blue cat, that you love those crazy ears and the added embellishments. 

Try not to limit them to the norm and realistic interpretations.

Kitty Head Magnets


Now you have cool magnets for the refrigerator or little gifts your kids can give to their friends.  They'll feel so proud to have made them themselves! These are the kitties my daughters made.  Some of them are quite unusual and perhaps not that kitty-like, but how stinking cute are they? 

The time you spend with them and the smiles you get- priceless!!


Thank you girls!

Stay tuned for more from Kelly in the near future! In the meantime check out her other links.

Website: www.birdinatreecreations.com
Blog: http://www.birdinatreecreations.com/blog.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Birdinatreecreations
Instagram: http://instagram.com/birdinatree
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Birdinatreecr
Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Birdinatreecreations
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/birdinatree/


Monday, September 22, 2014

Getting to Know The Cre8ive Crew: Kelly Campbell Corso


Today’s Cre8ive crew member is Kelly. 

Please give her a warm welcome!



Kelly describes herself as a fiber fanatic, inspired by nature, fresh cut grass smelling type o' gal.  My dream is to one day live on a farm with my family, raising sheep and alpaca for their companionship and fibers.

Kelly is currently living on the Treasure Coast of Florida but was born in Newport News, Virginia.

 How often do you create?

 I create everyday even if it is only a bit. If I have a day where I cannot fit it in, I feel sad.

How does it make you feel when you're creating something? 

Hopeful, like anything is possible.


Describe your personality in three words. 


Curious, observant, silly

How do you know when a piece is finished? 


I just look at it and know it’s finished. A lot of times I need a piece to sit for a while then come back to it with fresh eyes.

When/how did you realize your life had to have art in it? 


I think I realized this when I was around 35 or 36 years old. Being a stay at home mom is great and I love that part of my life but I just didn’t feel fulfilled. I needed something more. Creating fills that space for me and makes me feel whole.



Felted vessel in rust.


 Whats your superpower? 


Resilience I have had many ups and downs in my life but I keep kickin’. I allow myself a bit to cry or feel down but then I get back to it.

 If you could pick one tool or supply to do more experimenting with what would it be?


I always thought it would be great to try out welding, making sculptures with metal would be pretty awesome.


Which side of the bed do you sleep on? 

Can you sleep if forced to change sides? This is kinda funny. I used to sleep on the right side but then I changed to the left when I was pregnant because it was closer to the bathroom! 



Violet fields.


If money were no object in what country, place, or on what planet would you live? ...and why? 


This answer is 2 fold, after all money is no object, right? I would have my home base be a farm with lots of land and animals. While not at home I would travel with my family in a bomb diggety rv around the country visiting all the odd and unique festivals. For instance- snail festivals, garlic festivals, cow pie tossing, watermelon seed spittin’- you get the picture.


Whats your least favorite food?


 ...most favorite? I can not stand brussel sprouts! When I was little my brothers and I called them bro spros. We still laugh about it today! I love Mexican food and could eat tacos for every meal! 


Are you an introvert or extrovert? How do you feel about that?

 I am an introvert and am comfortable with that although it took me years to be ok with it. I no longer feel the pressure to have to make conversation.


Whats was your worst haircut? 


Please show us a pic.... This is so funny because I was just talking about this the other day. I think I was around 11 years old maybe and my older brother had a girlfriend and I thought she was so pretty and I wanted hair like hers. It was short and curly, mine was long and straight. It didn’t end well. That was the last time I had short hairr and a perm! I will have to dig up a picture for this one. Hee hee

Please take a peek at Kelly’s links:

Website: www.birdinatreecreations.comBlog: http://www.birdinatreecreations.com/blog.htmlFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BirdinatreecreationsInstagram: http://instagram.com/birdinatreeTwitter: https://twitter.com/BirdinatreecrShop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BirdinatreecreationsPinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/birdinatree/

Saturday, September 20, 2014

Gr8full Cre8ives

Welcome to the Gr8full Cre8ives Project!





Join Cre8ive Klatch for the Gr8full Cre8ives Project on Instagram. 

Simply snap images that remind you of what you are grateful for, post to Instagram, and use hashtags: 

#Gr8fullCreatives #Cre8Gratitude #Cre8iveKlatch 

in the comments area so we can all follow along. 

Look for weekly and monthly themes on our Instagram page and website.

Thanks so much!

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Getting To Know The Creative Crew: Jill Lambert

Today we introduce Jill Lambert!


Jill is from Wisconsin, and she loves to paint with acrylics also adding a bit of mixed media with photography.

When asked about what inspires her cre8ive life Jill replies...

"At age four I was inspired by my grandpa who was an artist for a living and watched him paint in his basement studio.  I have a love of color, the water, home-grown flowers and beautiful places outside.  My daughter, baby animals and chubby babies fill me with joy.  I dream of living on the Caribbean Sea in a charming hut by the water."

We asked Jill some fun questions to see if we could get to know her a bit better.

How does it make you feel when you're creating something?

I get a little lost sometimes which is a good thing because I think way too much!  Typically a bit joyful as well!

Describe your personality in three words.

 Sarcastic, Outgoing and Dreamer

Tell us how your creativity blends over into the rest of your life? 

I love adding sweet little touches to things like vases, flowers, tables etc., so I guess I like to add creative touches to things that normally people may not think twice about.  I always try to make things just a bitter prettier, more charming just because.  I even see twigs fallen from trees and I think, “what can I make with this?

How did you get started...who inspired you? 


Originally it was my grandpa who was an artist for a living - I loved watching him paint when I was little.  I’ll never forgot him drawing a quick, sweet little sketch of me on paper and I was so impressed because he even captured the little Avon apple necklace I was wearing.  I wish I could find that sketch now.  When I first started creating seriously Kim Parker who paints these amazing, free, huge florals really inspired me to paint and put my work out there.



If you could pick one tool or supply to do more experimenting with what would it be? 

Photoshop!  I’d love to be able to manipulate photos more but Photoshop really stumps me.

If you could hang out with any artist dead or alive who would it be and why?  

Definitely my grandpa George Ullenberg who died when I was four.  I would love to paint and draw with him and get some tips because he was a working artist and I would love to have someone that close to me do the same thing I love doing.  I remember watching him paint in his basement studio when I was very little and now we could paint together.

Whats the worst job you ever had?

Working as a cashier at Menard’s during the summer of my junior year in high school.  Orange polos, long hours on weekends during the summer when I had my license-ugh, that song “you’ll save big money…”  It was horrible!  Oh, and I’m bad with money and numbers so I was always second-guessing myself at the register!



Which side of the bed do you sleep on?

Can you sleep if forced to change sides?  I sleep on the left side.  Yes, I can sleep on another side, but I choose this side because it’s closest to the window - I love a breeze blowing in on me.

If money were no object in what country, place, or on what planet would you live?

 ...and why?  Somewhere in the Caribbean in a sweet cottage by the sea with cool breezes and a snuggly hammock by the water.
Whats your least favorite food? ...most favorite?  Least favorite food - blubbery, thick ham; most favorite – pizza.

Are you an introvert or extrovert? How do you feel about that? 

Extrovert - I can talk to anyone, anywhere.  My daughter is embarrassed because I frequently initiate conversations with people at Starbucks a lot.  However, I do love alone, quiet time too!

If we all came to your house for dinner what would you make for us? 

Well I hate grocery shopping and cooking, so I’d probably suggest ordering pizza and having someone pick it up.   Way more fun because then I get to enjoy being with my guests instead of cooking!

Thank you Jill!! Want to see more of Jill’s art?

Website: http://jillsdreamartwork.weebly.com/
Blog: http://jill-lambert.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JillsDreamArtwork
Instagram: http://instagram.com/lovethesea
Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JillsDream
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jillsdream/