Very often during the cold winter months, since I spend a lot of time indoors, I find myself reorganizing my studio. It’s amazing to me how much stuff gets piled up and up and all around throughout the year. I guess with all the different things that I enjoy making, most of which involves bringing home stuff and more stuff, it makes sense that my piles would grow larger and larger as each month passes. I’ve been trying to minimize by only hanging on to “very special” materials, but I don’t always succeed since I consider practically everything special. Anyway, while sorting through my pile of past projects I came across this collage (11″ x 14″) that I created last winter.
The number 3 is very special to me because it represents the members of our home, and I still use it all the time in my artwork.
I also still like to add a single button here or there.
Below you’ll see that I used a metal strip saved from a box of aluminum foil. Along with some nails I think it makes a good roof divider.
Below are some more layers and strips of this n’ that…
…and a knotted string detail ties in and highlights the red color along the bottom of the composition.
You can always count on melted beeswax to add texture and a bit of roughness.
And a wash of wintry-icy colors as the background base feels sort of story-book dreamy to me.
Coming across this collage again reminds me that it’s been a long while since I’ve played around with watercolor paint. I’m glad that this came up…and I love how sorting through the old stuff can inspire you to make new stuff again. If you happen to be stuck for some inspiration, I’d suggest taking a look around your art making space…perhaps you’ll find something interesting that you forgot about also.
Wishing you much inspiration, new or rediscovered.
12 Comments, Comment or Ping
I love this piece Becky. The #3 is special to me too- and for the same reason as you. It’s been a habit of mine for quite awhile that when I ring my Tibetan bell, I just have to do it three times 🙂
Thank you for sharing all the details in the photos too-it really does make a difference adding so many subtle bits. And it is fun to rediscover a project. Here’s to recreation inspiration!
February 6th, 2013
what a great post! I love all the detail photos, there are so many things that are special about this piece, and I think you´re so right when saying that you can often find new inspiration in “old stuff” …
February 6th, 2013
Beautiful!! I so love your color palette and of course, as always, I love your imagery – the three, the home. So from your heart.
February 7th, 2013
This is soo lovely, Becky! Peeking through your window reminds me that we can rest in the beauty of home that is within each of us as an idea and not a location. Ahhh. I, too, enjoy rediscovering bits and pieces of my art…I’m so glad you did and shared it with us!
February 7th, 2013
That is SO awesome-love it, Becky!
February 7th, 2013
This is really nice! I like layers of different materials. And I also like finding stuff while cleaning my studio. Sometimes they turn out to be something I actually need at that moment, or something that inspires me instantly. 🙂 Have a wonderful day Becky!
February 7th, 2013
You are so right that finding previous projects can lead to rediscovery and expanding our creative horizons. I think you have inspired me to rename my “sample” bin of ideas to “Inspirations” for future creations. Creative Hearts are Happy Hearts…
February 7th, 2013
i remember these pieces. loved them then and still love them now! i wanted to comment on your last post about all of your “stash” in your studio….I have drawers and drawers, not to mention closets and “under-bed” full of “tresors.” I always tell myself that I should give the flea market runs a hiatus until I use up at least HALF of what I have but, alas, those treasures call to me and I am on the hunt once again! lol! Today, what with the almost 3 feet of snow we might get, would be a good time to “unearth” all that stash and organize it! stay safe and warm today yourself!
February 8th, 2013
Oops Michelle, I guess I must’ve forgotten that I’ve already shared this piece (my memory is terrible these days!) With the blizzard on its way I’m not planning to leave the house at all today…and I hope that you’ll stay cozy indoors too.
February 8th, 2013
Wishing you warmth and safety during the snow storm I have been hearing about. The piece is so “winter soft” in colour and really quite calming. I really do love your style Becky and now is a good time to go through things, all things, and sort them out. Makes room for new, this is one thing I have been doing but find I am keeping more than getting rid of. LOL
February 8th, 2013
love this piece too. the blizzard is hitting us too. we didn’t get as much snow as places north of us (glad for that), but wow. good day to watch from a window. just found some pieces I put away (forgot where they were), and now creating. have a cozy weekend.
February 8th, 2013
It is so nice to know, I’m not the only crow. I too gather bits and bring things home. I too see special in everything! 3 is a special number <3 all that you shared! 😀
February 9th, 2013
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