Happy New Year 2013!

2012 was definitely an Artful year for me!  I started with a blank canvas--having no idea where my creative journey would take me.  I joined the Del Ray Artisans gallery and participated in 3 shows there.  I even had my first gallery sale!  I also participated in a group show at Herndon Artspace.  I went to my first Art Retreat (CREATE) in NJ where I learned all kinds of new mixed media techniques and met lots of great people (thanks Jodi and Cindy)!  I also had an awesome time taking an online art business class--Flying Lessons (thanks Kelly Rae and fellow flyers)!  I am happy to say that I created over 20 fun new pieces of art in 2012!  In addition to realizing some of my ART dreams, I was able to realize one of my lifetime dreams of seeing the Northern Lights!  They were truly amazing!  I am so grateful for my wonderful year of ART and ADVENTURE and for my family who put up with all my crazy ideas!

Once again, I am starting the year with a blank canvas.  I am not sure what Artful opportunities await me in 2013.  I am open to possibility and hope to fill this year with creativity, celebration, and inspiration!  I am wishing these things for YOU too!  Where are you headed on YOUR creative journey?  Keep me posted...  Happy New Year! oxox jackie

CREATE Mixed Media Retreat!

Just got back from the CREATE Mixed Media Retreat in NJ!  Had an AWESOME time!  I enjoyed learning new techniques, playing with paint, creating art and making new friends!  I took two full-day workshops: "Storyblock Collage" with artist Jodi Ohl and "The Heart of Art" with artist Cindy Wunsch.  Both instructors were wonderful and their classes were so much fun!  They are both truly talented and amazing women!  I also ran into Jenn Mason, editor of my favorite magazine, "Cloth, Paper, Scissors!" If you are looking for a fun way to make mixed-media come to life, this is it.  I recommend this retreat to artists of all levels.  I hope to go again next year!  I love the new pieces I created: "create joy" and "Queen of heARTs!"  I can't wait to try out these new techniques at home. Thank you to all my CREATE friends!