michelle ward

inspiration over coffee

I feel some new fronds coming on.  In a hotel breakfast room these beauties were humbly poised at attention beneath a large screen tv that rattled away the morning news.  I couldn't take my eyes off them.  Loved the simple arrangement - the clear glass tube vases with the spikey full color floral stalks, and then those random vine/twig things, and the rocks.  Great composition.  Interesting shapes.  Made me want to come right home and cut some stencils to interpret that mental picture.  Who knew I should have had a camera with me?  (Popped back in on the way to the elevator to snap a quick photo to remind me of the inspiration.) 

Some years ago I took several online tests to determine whether I was right- or left-brain dominant.  It was not surprising to learn I am equal-brained.  Makes sense as I am an architect and an artist.  And it might illustrate that I found inspiration from these hip exotic flowers just moments after tearing out a magazine page that depicted a fine specimen of European architecture carved from stone.  While I tend to prefer linear images, structured composition, and symmetrical shapes, I am also really intrigued by natural organic forms, irregular contours, and how to create balance while maintaining space.

What inspired you this morning?  Take a walk through this glorious day and see what awaits you.  It's FALL!

p.s  Anyone know what these plants are called?

interview....and french toast

I've had the pleasure of being interviewed at Sissy Sparrows, a lovely site hosted by sister who are artists, and designers.  Read their About page, you'll instantly like them.  So envious - I wish I lived a street away from my sister, and could enjoy the same daily fun they get to share.  I love that they work together to create cool stuff, neat digital products, and a site that is full of encouragement and inspiration with their tutorials and challenges.  Hop over for a look, and bookmark them!  Thanks for having me ladies.

 

This just arrived today, (very early xmas) and I had to plug it in for morning toast.  Julie knows I'm a Saints fan....says 'Toast Your Team' right on the box.  She suggested BLT's this Sunday.  I'm thinking French Toast :)  Isn't this the coolest?  Thanks friend!

 

countdown to art-is-you

In one month I will be on the road to Connecticut to teach at my first Art-Is-You event.  I'm looking forward to attending this event - have heard great things about it.  I've met Sallianne, one of the co-hosts, and she is a doll.  This was news to me - they actually close registration in two weeks.  I love their philosophy that this will allow teachers to prepare their class materials, knowing the number of attendees.  I also love that they have shared the names of the students, and provided their email addresses so that we may begin communication.  Isn't that terrific?  I think that makes for a much more intimate experience, and gets everyone into event-mode.  So if you've signed up to take a workshop with me in October you will be hearing from me soon.  And if you've been on the fence about getting registered it's time to jump off and join the fun.  My mom is coming too!

Link:  Art-IsYou.com