Christmas is Nearing.

A few days ago we woke up to this in our garden, the white cold stuff, it makes you go, brrrrrr! It is so lovely to see the sun peaking through the trees and seeing fresh snow on the ground particularly when it is on a weekend and there is no need to go anywhere in a hurry.

I haven't been painting much for a while, I have a few ideas but I am working on sketches on a new, fresh, untouched art pad and I have purchased some lovely new colourful pens. I have ran out of most of my paints which is annoying but I hope to find a parcel under the Christmas tree, wrapped in glorious Christmas paper with lots of art supplies. This remains to be seen since I forgot to put it on my Santa list, I still have time though. 

Photography is also my new found passion and I am learning how to use my DSLR camera to its best ability.   

So with that on my mind I am taking a pledge where I will make art whether it be taking pictures, creating images for my blog or headers, sketching and doodling or making things with my kids like baking and getting the glue sticks out. Getting creative can help to clear the mind and be a stress release by having fun. 

I am looking forward to Christmas and I hope you are too. After what I have been through over the last few years I could do with a nice rest and peace of mind, that would be the greatest gift of all.

My New Art Station

It has only taken me years to get a desk with draws designated for painting and kids arts and crafts. All from Ikea and I built it myself with some help from my little ones. Plus Ikea has a  deal on, if you spend over a certain amount you get 20% off, I was well chuffed.

So here is my desk with some art materials tucked away in the draws for easy access. Kid won't need to ask me where things are and I will be able to find stuff.

I will be able to paint on this desk without worrying about marking it because that is what it is for, making a mess. My poor new dining table will now be used for its purpose and hopefully no more pen marks.

In celebration to my new art station :)

Stephanie Matthews

Opus Art Supplies

What artist doesn't like an art shop? Shelves filled with colour, canvas, sketch books and new and exciting tools.  Shops filled with toys for artists who want to explore, create, try something new. One of my favourite go-to art shops is Opus in Vancouver, I particularly like the Granville Island location, it is near Emily Carr University and the most fabulous art library I have ever come across. The store layout is very well organised and doesn't feel cluttered or unorganised, everything has its place. Their website has some great tutorials and information about products and how to use them as well as featuring artists.

Here is a video about one of their products and visit their site.