Orange Spiral Arts

September 2019 MN Visual Journal Collective Meeting Summary-Mandalas

Greetings! Thank you for visiting Orange Spiral Arts!

Today's post is a meeting summary about the September 2019 MN Visual Journal Collective gathering at Wet Paint.

Our meeting topic was the mandala. Briana (one of the co-facilitators of the MN Visual Journal Collective) shared some resources and personal journals where she used mandalas and journaling as a way toward self-discovery and healing. 

Briana recommends the online teachings of Julie Gibbons, who taught The Great Round, based on The Mandala Workbook by Susanne F. Fincher, and offers a variety of online workshops centering around the mandala. (Ha! Did you catch that pun?)

Here are some of the resources shared by Briana.

The Mandala Workbook by Susanne F. Fincher.

Mandala: Luminous Symbols for Healing by Judith Cornell

Creating Personal Mandalas: Story Circle Techniques in Watercolor and Mixed Media by Cassia Cogger

Here's a free tutorial by Cassia Cogger for creating a gratitude mandala.

Briana also mentioned a more structured form of creating mandalas called Yantra painting. Find out more here.

Next, the floor was opened up to participants at the meeting to share their experiences with creating mandalas. 

Nell shared her experience with making mandalas at the beginning of a class she took at Split Rock Arts Program many years ago. She said that participants enjoyed the mandala process as a way into the day so much, that often students would also create one at the end of their session. Nell also shared the following mandala book by Kathryn Costa.

Kathy shared some mandalas she is working on for a class on mindfulness and meditation at the White Bear Center for the Arts.

Linda talked about traveling solo in Alaska, and using a mandala making practice as a way to document her experiences of the day.

Kari shared a similar idea of gathering experiences and nature items from a trip and placing them into a mandala in her travel journal.

Lakin shared how she spent a year creating a mandala a day, and then used her images as gift wrap. Currently Lakin enjoys the Koala Tools circular grid journals available at Wet Paint.

Heather mentioned an interest in the dot mandala making process where you use a set of tools of varying sizes to create your dot patterns. This process is helping her let go of imperfection, as any mistakes tend to get magnified as the pattern grows.

Karena shared her expressive art created where mandalas just sort of showed up in her work.

Thank you so much to everyone who shared a visual or a story about how you use mandalas in your creative process. It's so good to see and hear about a variety of examples.

After this initial group sharing, we all worked in our journals for about 45 minutes, and mandala making was encouraged.

Here's everyone hard at work and in their creative zone.

At the end of our meeting, participants were invited to share the mandalas they just created, or any other visual journaling work. This is always such a fun part of the night. Everyone's work is so inspiring to see and hear about! Thank you everyone!

Nell shared her mandala and also mentioned the Sketchbook Project from the Brooklyn Art Library in New York. Find out more here.

Carol used water-soluble pencils for her mandala.

Carol also does fiber journals, as she is a quilter. She generously passed it around for everyone to see and touch.

Below is Linda's mandala from the night. She was reflecting on some labyrinth walks she took in Arizona.

Nan shared some recent paper printing work she did in a class in Duluth, MN.

Molly shared her mandalas from the night, as well as her altered collage journal. Molly is teaching at Artistry MN in Bloomington this fall. Look under Fiber for Altered Book Art Journaling with Molly Anthony.

Briana is offering several classes at Wet Paint this fall. She also has classes online on this Orange Spiral Arts site. Thank you in advance for your interest and support.

Briana's Classes at Wet Paint, Fall 2019

Getting Started with Visual Journaling-3 Wednesdays, October 9, 16, 23, 10:30am-1:30pm Fee $126

Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Inks-Saturday, October 19, 10am-12pm Fee $56 (includes kit + yupo)

Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Inks-Tuesday, November 12, 5:30pm-7:30pm Fee $56 (includes kit + yupo)

Liquid Watercolor Mandalas-Sunday, November 17, 1pm-4pm Fee $48

Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Inks-Ages 11+ -Sunday, December 29, 3pm-5pm $56 (includes kit + yupo)

You are always welcome to call Wet Paint to register for a class. 651-698-6431

Briana's current online class is Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Ink Art. I cover a lot more territory than the 2-hour in person workshop at Wet Paint. This class makes a great addition to the live class.

More of Briana's online classes can be found by clicking the "Learn" tab from OrangeSpiralArts.com or by clicking here.

You are never too young or too old to experiment with art supplies!

You and your creativity matter. 

Thanks so much for reading this post!

Sending Blessings and Gratitude to You,

Briana

 

 

 

 

How and When to Print a Stencil with Fine Lines

This post was originally written as a design team member for artistcellar.

How and When to Print a Fine Line Stencil with Briana

Hello Everyone!

 

It’s hard to believe that September is here already! We just had orientation at my son’s school. A day later, he decided he wanted to make cards that say, “Thank you for being my teacher.” My heart smiled when I heard what he wanted to do, so we got started right away. (Thank you to all of the educators, teachers, and support staff out there. You matter, and your work is so important!)

 

As my son created his cards, I could not keep my hands off of the art supplies, so I ended up making a background paper for this blog post. I used construction paper crayons and liquid watercolor.

 

For this blog post, I decided that I wanted to see what would happen if I used a stencil on top of this busy background. The stencil I chose is by Artistcellar, and is from the Sacred Geometry 2 Series. It’s called Seed of Life.

This stencil has fine lines. I didn’t want to cover up all of the color in my background, so I decided to use some Marabu Art Spray. This spray ink is acrylic-based vs. water-based spray ink, like Dylusions spray ink.

I liked how the color showed up, and the ink beaded up around the crayon. I got a little carried away though and sprayed a bit too much ink.

 

Instead of using paper towels to blot up the extra ink, I used a piece of 8 x 8 inch watercolor paper.

I pulled up the watercolor paper to check on the results of both papers.

As a mixed media artist and avid visual journal keeper, I love having a lot of papers to work with. I also am working on a series of 8 x 8 inch paintings, and this Seed of Life print will be a great start for one of those paintings.

 

While I am happy with the 8 x 8 printed version of the stencil, I could not see it well enough on my busy background.

That gave me the idea to use the stencil again with spray ink on the 8 x 8 inch paper, and make a print of it onto my background.

 

I used a card scraper to really rub the back of the wet stencil.

Here’s what things are looking like after pulling off my busy background paper. I think this is my favorite image of this whole bunch. I love those pink dots that happened.

 

Here’s a closer look at the print.

Those fine lines of the stencil are showing up much better now, especially since I dug the stencil into the paper by burnishing it with a plastic card.

 

Here’s how both of the papers looked at the end of my session.

 

In Summary, if you are going to work with a fine line stencil on a busy background, you may want to spray it with ink on a different paper first, then make a print of it onto your background. Burnishing with a plastic card is a great way to help the ink absorb into the paper, so the stencil lines are nice and sharp.

Spray inks and stencils are really fun to play with in a variety of projects. If you do not want your spray ink to be reactivated with water, Marabu Art Sprays are acrylic-based, which means they stay in place.

 

I hope you enjoyed this photo tutorial of my experiments and creative process.

 

Don’t forget to grab your Artistcellar stencils at 30 percent off until September 9^th, 2019. Use coupon code BACKTOSCHOOL19. You’ll love the high quality of the material and the fantastic designs!

PS These stencils are what I will be using in my brand new online class called Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Ink Art. Learn more here.

Sending Blessings,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

Using Watercolor with Stencils

Hello, Everyone!

Do you ever go through phases where you become “semi-obsessed” with an art medium? Lately, I love watercolor paint. Oh, and stencils are pretty much always on my list so . . . I decided to try the two together. In the past, I did not have a lot of success with this combination, as the watercolor would seep underneath the stencil. Recently I saw an art tutorial by Josie Lewis on YouTube, which showed how she used a stencil to trace the design, and then fill it in with color. Genius! I am not sure why I did not think of this (or maybe I have), but that’s beside the point. Something struck a chord when I saw Josie’s video, so I went with it. You can watch the video here, if you'd like.

I decided to give this idea a try, as I love how Josie’s art looks when she’s done.

I will share a tutorial of what I did, then share my reflection of my experience at the end of this post.

 

Supplies Used:

Japanese Geometric Series Stencils by Artistcellar

Derwent Graphic H pencil

140 lb. watercolor paper

Various watercolor

Small round watercolor brush (size 2 or 4)

Jar of water

 

Step 1:

Flip through your stencils and choose the designs you like.

 

Step 2:

Use an H pencil (a hard pencil, which writes lightly), to trace your chosen designs from one or more stencils.

 

I used three different stencil designs.

 

Step 3:

Paint in your traced stencil patterns using a variety of watercolor paints.

 

 

Step 4:

Allow the watercolor paint to dry and soak in that beautiful color!

 

Reflection:

Oh my goodness, did I dislike this process, while I was doing it! That feeling certainly told me something about the style of art I like to create.

I don’t enjoy creating precise art, so I just had to roll with my paint going outside of my traced lines.

Now that it is finished, I do enjoy looking at the result. I had fun creating a lighter value of a color by adding water to my brush. I also enjoyed playing with color and making choices based what I was being called toward, versus following some sort of formula. If I try this again, I will keep in mind that my work will not be precise. I also will try a smaller brush (like the size 2 or 4 round brush I suggested for you).

 

I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial. Give it a try and see if you enjoy creating inside or outside of the lines!

 

Sending all good wishes your way!

 

Blessings,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

Big Paper, Big Stencil, Spray Ink, and A Fern

Hello Everyone!

(Below is a post originally written as a design team member for artistcellar. I hope you enjoy the idea of going big!)

It’s summer here in Minnesota, and I have been feeling inspired by plants! The other day, as my son and a neighbor friend ran around the yard, I quickly grabbed a large sheet of paper, some spray ink, a fern and some other plants that I had printed with on my Gelli Plate.

Here’s what I got done in the about five minutes of playtime I had before my attention was needed elsewhere.

 

Although I like these colors, I thought I might experiment with one of the 12 x 12 inch artistcellar stencils. I was looking for a contrast to the organic shapes of the plants. Since I love circles, what better choice would there be, other than the Square Rose stencil from the Sacred Geometry series?

For some reason, I did not realize these came in the 12 x 12 size. I am quite excited for this! I invite you to check them out on the artistcellar site!

 

When I received this 12 x 12 stencil, the beauty of the back of the package struck me. I snapped a photo to share with you, just in case you want to see.

 

In case you are not familiar with spray ink, I took a photo of my gallon plastic bag that holds a bunch of them.

Since I frequently teach mixed media and visual journaling art classes, I have learned that this is an easy way to transport those bottles. It also made the quick grab that I needed to do while my son was playing, quite feasible.

 

I ended up using a blue Adirondack Color Wash spray by Ranger Ink. I am not sure if these are still being made, but you can also use Dylusions spray ink or Marabu Art Spray. Marabu Art Spray is permanent once dry, where Dylusions spray inks move with water.

 

So, I sprayed the beautiful Square Rose stencil with blue Adirondack Color Wash.

I was so curious to see the bright colors through the stencil lines, once I removed the stencil. Are you ready for the big reveal?

You’ll have to hold on a second, because first I want to show you how to mop up some of that wet ink.

Take a roll of paper towels (or kitchen roll, as some people say) and roll it over the wet stencil like this.

Once the extra ink is absorbed into the paper towel roll, you can lift the stencil and see clean lines.

 

Here’s what my paper looks like now with the fern next to the sprayed stencil.

 

Now, there is still a bunch of ink on that stencil, so you can do a final step of cleaning the stencil, while also creating more paper for collage, or a background in your journal.

All you need is a baby wipe and a surface.

One major reason I love artistcellar stencils so much, beyond the wonderful designs, is the thickness and quality of the stencils. Wiping them with a baby wipe is a breeze. I love that.

All clean, and here’s my extra paper I can use for doodles or collage or whatever!

 

Thank you for being here and reading this post. I hope that you feel inspired to just try some fun things with stencils and other art supplies, or maybe even a plant or two!

 

Sending Blessings your way!

-Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

 

 

 

Art It Up!, Alcohol Inks, and Capturing Moments

Greetings Everyone,

I can hardly believe that it is almost August! The exciting part about that for me, is that there are a few class opportunities I can share with you. Some are for local Twin Cities folks, and one is for anyone around the world with internet access!

Upcoming Classes at Wet Paint

First things first, for those of you in the Twin Cities with children, nieces, nephews, or neighbors in the age range of 11-15, I encourage you to sign them up for Art It Up! Getting Started with Visual Journaling. 

Here's the class description:

Saturday, August 3rd 10-12:30pm

FEE: $30

Discover rubber stamps, spray inks, stencils and more in this introductory visual journaling class. Learn how a visual journal can be a place to let your heart express itself, experiment, and explore the wonderful world of creativity. Your journal is like a playground for what’s going on inside of you. It’s a safe space for you to learn about yourself as you continue to grow and change. Let it out and then let’s Art It Up!

An email with supply list and details will be sent to registrants prior to the class.

There's no doubt that this is going to be a lot of fun for participants. 

Sign up today on the Wet Paint site, or call the store at 651-698-6431.

The sooner the better, as classes tend to get canceled a few days before the scheduled session. 

The next class I have coming up at Wet Paint is an introduction to Alcohol Inks.

Here's the description:

Tuesday, August 6^th 5:30-7:30pm

FEE: $56 includes kit+yupo

Let’s Get Abstract with Alcohol Inks!

Alcohol Inks are vibrant, fluid, and come in an array of colors.

In this beginner alcohol inks class, we’ll be experimenting on different surfaces such as Yupo and canvas. We’ll try out different techniques for manipulating the alcohol ink, adding various textures, as well as experimenting with directly dropping it onto your chosen surface.

Caution: If you are sensitive to fumes, such as the smell of rubbing alcohol, you might want to skip this one.

An email with supply list and details will be sent to registrants prior to the class.

I taught this class in July, and it was a ton of fun. The students loved the kit and the extra things that I brought along, as well.

Sign Up today on the Wet Paint site, or call the store at 651-698-6431.

Finally, some of you may know that I am part of the 21 Secrets Summer Studio edition Playful Experiments. Registration has closed for Playful Experiments, but you can still join 21 Secrets Summer Studio edition Capturing Moments.

It's going to be an amazing set of online classes. The 21 Secrets Summer Studio editions are some of my favorite, as I love looking for that email each day, M-F for two weeks. The interviews with the artists are super inspiring, and the Facebook community is really fun, too. Plus, upon registration, you get a really fun, super duper awesome workshop by Connie Solera right away. NO waiting until August 5th; you get to start playing right away! You will loooooooove Connie's lesson, too. I just know you will. 

So for those of you who prefer or out of necessity, like to create at home, 21 Secrets Summer Studio: Capturing Moments is here for you!

I hope to see you in class, one way or another, in August!

Many Blessings to you,

Briana 

Collage

 

Collage

Collage is one of my favorite art forms. The main reason this is true for me is because I have a great love of paper. I super duper love paper!

I have taken so many classes that focus on the art of collage. Some of my favorites have been taught by: Lynn Whipple, Kara Kramer, Alisa Burke, Claudine Hellmuth, Carla Sonheim, Misty Mawn, Cathy Nichols, Mati Rose, Lisa Congdon, Sarah Ahearn, Sabrina Ward Harrison, and Teesha Moore.

Let me just say one more time, I love collage.

 

What I have learned over the years of taking classes from other artists is that my art is more meaningful when I put my own marks and ideas to work. One’s artistic style shines through much more easily when the artist’s hand, color preferences, and unique compositions are used in a piece.

 

This Saturday, July 27, 2019, I am teaching a “Make Your Own Collage Papers + Collage” workshop at Wet Paint in St. Paul, Minnesota. I am so thrilled to be able to share many of the techniques and skills I have learned for making your own unique papers, and using them in your collage art.

The process for making papers is almost my favorite thing in the whole world. I love to draw, scribble, paint, stamp, stencil, and print my papers. You will be going home with lots and lots of paper that you can continue to create with well beyond our class time together.

You will also be going home with tons of ideas and inspiration for how to make your own collage papers and collages, because each participant is going to make their own discoveries and share with the group. Classes are just so amazing that way, you know? When people who desire to express themselves creatively get together in a group setting, there is just so much positive energy; it’s exhilarating!

In the first half of the class, we’ll be creating our papers based on a variety of techniques that I will demonstrate, plus your own ideas.

In the second half of the class, you will have time to create your own collages, using the papers you just made, plus whatever else you’d like to incorporate. Wet Paint is providing a Canson Mixed Media Board for you to try. You can also use blank cards, watercolor paper, cardboard, or whatever surfaces float your boat!

 

So, if you are feeling inspired, even one iota, I highly encourage you to join us this Saturday, July 27, 2019, from 10am-5pm, at Wet Paint! Sign up online or call the store to reserve your spot: 651-698-6431.

I hope to see you Saturday!

 

Sending Blessings,

Briana

Modeling Paste and a Stencil

 

Hello, Everyone! I hope you are doing well today!

I am about to share a technique that is fun to do, but takes a little more drying time. Are you ready?

 

Supplies Used

Artistcellar Japanese Geometric Series stencils

Winsor & Newton Modeling Paste

Blickrylic Fluorescent Orange acrylic paint

Palette Knife

Paper Plate

Pre-Painted Paper (140 lb. watercolor paper)

 

First, I typically like to use techniques that dry right away. I tend to be impatient when it comes to wet paint. If you are like me, it is possible to use a heat tool. Second, the textured result is so worth the extra wait time. I hope you’ll give it a try!

 

Step 1:

Mix up some modeling paste and acrylic paint on your palette. TIP: It helps if your acrylic paint is thicker than the inexpensive craft paint. In other words, a heavy body acrylic paint works best.

 

Step 2:

Use a palette knife to spread the modeling paste and paint mixture through a stencil of your choice.

Here I am using the Japanese Geometric: Seven Jewels stencil by artistcellar.

 

Note: I chose not to put paint through the entire stencil. I did this to keep within the round shape I had previously painted.

 

Step 3:

Remove the stencil by lifting from one corner. Set your painting aside to dry for an hour or more. Drying time depends upon your climate, as well as how much paint you used. Note: Rinse the stencil right away under running water, or place it in a tub of water. Do this to avoid the modeling paste from sticking to your stencil and drying there. This is one of the only times I “clean” my stencils. You could also try using a baby wipe, but it will likely be kind of a mess, with all that paint and paste.

 

Since I had extra paint on my palette, I decided to grab the altered book I just started.

Here’s a little BONUS sneak peek. I did the same technique described above, only in an altered book. I also applied paint to the right side of the page spread using the palette knife.

 

In case you are wondering about modeling paste, there are many brands on the market. It is sometimes spelled “modelling,” and it is sometimes called molding paste. Each medium has the same purpose of adding texture to a surface.

 

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. Have tons of fun with your mixed media supplies!

 

Creatively Yours,

 

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

 

Last Call-21 Secrets Playful Experiments Registration Closes on Sunday

Greetings! 

I hope this post finds you well. 

I wanted to let you know that I am getting really, really, REALLY, excited for the next two weeks of 21 Secrets Playful Experiments! The live sessions begin on Monday, July 8 and run through Friday, July 19. What I mean by "live" is that each day, M-F, for two weeks, you will receive a wonderful email all about one of the guest teachers in 21 Secrets Playful Experiments. The email will also contain links to the video lessons by that artist. Each artist also completed an interview, so you will get to know some interesting things about each guest teacher (including me). The videos are made to be short and impactful, so that you can get some creative time in, even if you have a busy schedule. 

I am overjoyed and a weeeeee bit nervous to be first on the list, which means my workshop is released on Monday, July 8. That's what I get for having my first name start with a "B".

I will be teaching "From Distress to De-stress," and I can't wait to share it with you!

I have some special bonuses and offers I will be letting registered participants know about. There is also a private Facebook group, where I will be actively participating all day on Monday, July 8.

So, what do you say? Are you ready to release some of that pent up creative energy? Would you like to feel more free in your creative expression and creative practice? This online program offers so much for such a great price.

Sign up by the end of Sunday, July 7, before registration closes!!!

I don't want you to miss out on all of the fun we'll be having!

Sending Blessings and Creative Vibes Your Way,

Briana

June MN Visual Journal Collective Meeting-Sketching and Art Supplies

Greetings! This is a blog post about the fun things that happened at the June MN Visual Journal Collective meeting at Wet Paint in St. Paul, Minnesota. Our topic for the evening was sketching your favorite art supplies. Some people did that, while others did what they needed to work on in their journals or calendar planners. It's all good. We love it when people show up to sketch, learn, share, and create in community. 

MEETING TOPIC: SKETCHING & ART SUPPLIES

The idea was that we'd sketch our favorite art supplies, then have a sharing time at the end to hear what people like to use in their journals. Art supplies are just so delicious, after all, wouldn't you agree?

THE MEETING

After introductions, we had time to work in our journals and chat with the people around us. I love it when people get up to see what other participants are up to. It's so exciting to see the work of other journal keepers!

I like to go around and check in with folks to make sure they feel seen, heard, and important. I truly value each person who shows up to these meetings. The meetings would not be special without you! So, thank you for showing up!

WHAT PEOPLE SHARED

Briana

I (co-facilitator of the MN Visual Journal Collective with TJ Goerlitz) shared that I am really into watercolor, specifically using tube watercolor. I have been using pan watercolor for years, but after taking an online class called Tiny Adventure with Tammy Garcia of DaisyYellowArt.com, I am feeling more and more excited about tube gouache and watercolors. Here's a drawing of some of my favorite paints. I am loving Daniel Smith watercolor, Holbein watercolor, and the tiny tubes of Amsterdam Acrylic. Of course, you can purchase all of these at Wet Paint.

Briana (that's me!) has several classes coming up at Wet Paint in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Saturday, June 22-Getting Started with Visual Journaling, 10am-4pm

Saturday, June 29- Art-It-Up! Visual Journaling for Ages 7-10, 10am-12pm

Sunday, July 21-Alcohol Inks, 1pm-3pm

Saturday, July 27-Make Your Own Collage Papers + Collage Class, 10am-5pm

Saturday, August 3-Art-It-Up! Visual Journaling for Ages 11-15, 10am-12:30pm

Tuesday, August 6-Alcohol Inks, 5:45pm-7:45pm

That's a lot of classes! Please come take a class with me! It will be lots of fun, and it's good for us to create together! We need each other, you know?

JUNE MEETING-PARTICIPANT SHARING

Here's what this month's participants shared at our June MN Visual Journal Collective meeting.

Beth 

Beth had some catching up to do in her journal planner, so that's what she did! Isn't her planner so cool? I love it! I know you can't see the details, but that's probably preferred for a personal calendar, right Beth?

(Note: Please forgive me if I do not spell your name correctly. I am happy to make any needed changes. Just let me know!)

Kari

Kari did such a fun thing in her journal. She sketched her favorite supplies and journaled what bugs her about each one. I love this personal touch she added to this "assignment." 

Kari makes handmade journals. She will be at the Eagan Art Festival June 29 and 30, 2019. If you are in the area, stop by and see her!

Linda and Joy joined our meeting for the first time. We love new participants!

LisaMarie (aka LMNOP)

LisaMarie is working on this amazing accordion book. We are always so excited to see what she's done in it since the last time.

She also shared her favorite supplies with us. I tried to get a few photos for you, as her supplies are so inspiring to see! LisaMarie takes her supplies on the go, often so she has a really portable set up.

Molly

Molly did some sketching of some objects she brought from home.

She also brought her amazing altered book project she's been working on. Molly's collage art is so inspiring!

Molly will be teaching some classes at Artistry MN Visual Arts and Theater, in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Introduction to Art Journaling (Listed in the catalog under Painting and Mixed Media) is on Saturday, July 27, 9:30am-12pm. Register online at artistrymn.org or call 952-563-8575.

I believe her next class will be listed in the fall catalog.

Kathy

Kathy is loving her new bullet pencil sharpener.

 

She also sketched some tubes of paint and a brush. I could look at art supply sketches all day long! How about you?

Ryan

Ryan is enjoying her new TwinTone Tombow pens.

Lisa

Lisa also joined us for the first time. She was sharing how that inner judge often comes up for her. We can certainly all relate to that! Lisa did awesome at practicing (and it is a practice) letting go, so she could just enjoy sketching art supplies in her journal.

Barb

Barb brought some nature items to sketch. She just finished getting her Book Arts Certificate from the Minnesota Center for the Book Arts. Congratulations, Barb! That's awesome!

Lakin

Lakin shared the great tip of using a portable laptop stand for supporting her journal work on the go.

She's also been really enjoying creating mandalas in the Koala Circular Grid Sketchbook they sell at Wet Paint.

Cindy

Cindy loves scissors (and all things paper).

Nancy

Nancy also loves scissors and paper!

Deborah

Deborah shared her sketch of an object she got when she and her husband Steve were teaching in Alaska.

She also sketched Steve. I love that!

Deborah loves textiles, and she made an awesome journal cover using one of her weavings. Deborah suggests checking out Stitches by Julia on YouTube.

GRATITUDE

A big whole-hearted thank you to everyone who showed up, created, and shared the evening with us.

Last but not least, here are some amazing flowers I saw in the alley on my walk to Wet Paint.

Thank you so much for reading this post.

Our next MN Visual Journal Collective meeting is on Monday, July 15th. If you are local to the Twin Cities, we welcome you to join us in person, or in our MN Visual Journal Collective Facebook group. Request to join the Facebook Group here.

We also have a Google Group (MN Visual Journal Collective) for those who prefer not to use Facebook. You can learn how to request to join the Google Group here. (Here's the link to our MN Visual Journal Collective Google Group).

If you would like to attend a specific meeting, we request that you register through the Wet Paint Events link. This helps Wet Paint prepare the space for our meeting. Go to Wet Paint, click Events, and then select the MN Visual Journal Collective Meet-Up listed for that month. Click Register. Here's the Link to Register for the July 15 meeting. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please only sign up if you are sure you will attend. Space is limited.

 

Thanks again for being here!

Sending Blessings Out to You,

Briana, Founder of Orange Spiral Arts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hope, Faith, Grace-Words + Art with Briana (DT member for artistcellar)

Hello Creative Ones,

 

I was recently reminded about how much I love the combination of words with art.

I am sharing a quick tutorial of how you can create a painted background, and then add the Virtues Words Pocket Stencils by artistcellar on top.

 

SUPPLIES USED

Watercolor

Gouache

Dina Wakley Acrylic Paint

140 lb. watercolor paper

Small round brush

Ballpoint pen

Water

Rag

 

Step 1:

Paint six loose rectangles on 9 x 12 inch watercolor paper.

Let dry.

 

Step 2:

Choose a rectangle and three of the Pocket Stencils by artistcellar.

 

Step 3:

Use a ballpoint pen to trace the word stencils.

 

Step 4:

Using Dina Wakley heavy body paint, or another acrylic paint and round brush, paint around the letters you traced.

 

Step 5:

Add any design details around your words.

 

Step 6 (Optional):

Cut out your card and give it as a gift to someone who could use some uplifting or encouraging words.

 

I hope that you enjoy painting your stripes, tracing your word stencils, and making art + words art for someone! (That someone could be you! These would make wonderful journaling cards, too.)

 

Many Blessings to You,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com