michelle ward

Save on STENCILS on Cyber Monday!!

My SGP stencils are on sale!  (And ALL StencilGirlProduct Stencils!)

Cyber Monday: Save 25% off all* stencils
Use code: cyber25 
Monday, November 27, 2017
from midnight until 11:59 p.m. CST (Central Standard Time) USA

PLUS 10% discount when you buy 6 stencils of the same size!

NEW THIS YEAR! Choose 1 FREE large stencil for every $100 spent (after discounts are applied). You MUST specify your choice(s) by L### code in the comments section of the cart when you check out or it will be StencilGirl's choice. Sorry, no exceptions.

BONUS! Spend $500+ (after discounts are applied) and StencilGirl will send you an original work of art by Mary Beth Shaw.

SHOP Michelle Ward Stencils: HERE

After Cyber Monday, you can get 20% off all stencils on Tuesday & Wednesday
Use code: cyber20 
Tuesday, November 28, 2017, & Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Sale ends at 11:59 p.m. CST (Central Standard Time) USA
10% off 6 stencils of the same size discount, FREE stencil(s), and Bonus still apply.

*Stencils only. Does not apply to DVDs, books, tools, wholesale orders, StencilClub, or gift certificates. The StencilClub exclusive monthly member discount does not apply.

Here is a link in case you need to check your time zone against St.Louis, MO: 
https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/personal.html

Happy Thanksgiving!

Had a full table of family and friends....great day!  Hoping you had the same!

11.22.17

Happy Birthday to my favorite rock star, turning 41 today.  We got to see him perform with his band twice last week, in Philly and NYC, on their farewell tour.  Yes, farewell.  It was glorious, yet heartbreaking.  Feeling so lucky to have had this era of HIM.  We will always be LOVE METAL fans and hope we will hear from each of them in the future.  Here's a link to my favorite track, from the PA show:  HERE

 

 

On this day, twenty years ago, we lost Michael Hutchence from INXS, who was another crush.  Can't believe it's been that long. Thankfully the music lives on forever, as well as many memories of seeing them live.  One of my faves: HERE

 

And sadly, I'm sure you've heard, yesterday we lost David Cassidy.  He was my first rock star crush.  Below is from a post I made in 2010 when he turned 60.  Again, the music lives on....

 

 

Got spoons?

Many of you already know this - I collect souvenir spoons. Gathered from places we've visited, it's a fun ritual to pull out each year and reminisce as we hang on our Christmas tree.  One of my self-imposed assignments, on a long list of things I've been wanting to do, was to start journaling Christmas.  I've been wanting to capture the stories, the traditions, and document the history of our decorations and ornaments.  The easiest way to begin was to document the spoon collection.  There are so many, nearly 70, that they get their own journal.  The pages are a hybrid of handwriting and digital compositions.  There's still a long way to go before I'm finished, but it feels good to have finally launched the project.  You can read more about it in the current Somerset Studio - November/December 2017.

 

Telling the stories behind our spoons makes the collection even more special.  It's an untraditional practice that has become a tradition for us.  

What unusual thing do you do during the holidays?  They are approaching quickly!  Ack!!!

Happy Halloween - and Thank You

Hope you had a wonderful Halloween.  It was cold here so Sam and I went out early this year.  It was actually more fun to be out in the daylight because we got to see all the young crowds of kids and parents in our neighborhood.  We stayed out just long enough to get the benefit from Sam's new pumpkin candy bucket with light-up handle and downlights that lit the sidewalk.  Pretty cool, especially in the dark.  He loves anything flashlight related so this was a big score (from Target earlier this afternoon).  He went in his default costume:  Uncle Sam.

 

Thank you again for the tremendous support of our fundraiser.  Friends, family, and friends-we've-never-met, joined in from around the globe, to link elbows with us in a big circle of positivity to say that "artist's matter" as we ventured to make a difference.  In less than a month we sold out our Art Print cards and raised our goal of $4000.  With a match from Etsy, we completed a total donation of $8000 to CERF+.

Thanks to you, and to my colleagues, who answered the call to participate with their art, their heart, and the hard work of spreading the word.  To be honest, I've never spent so much time on "social media" promoting a cause, and appreciate all the likes, shares, and comments that helped us along and contributed to a successful campaign - and of course, your orders!  We couldn't have done it without the orders!  I've definitely learned a lot thru this process - about people, about platforms, and I have a full page of notes should we launch another event in the future.  It was hard work, but we did it!!!  It means so much to us that so many of YOU gathered as a community and made this happen.  ** tosses confetti **  

 

almost there.....

 

The + Artists For Artists + fundraiser is nearly complete - we are at the finish line!  There are a handful of sets left and I'd really like to sell out to maximize our total donation.  If you've been meaning to jump in, now is your chance!  We really appreciate all the support - it's such a great cause. UPDATE:  ONLY 20 LEFT OF THIS LIMITED EDITION OFFERING.  EDIT:  SOLD OUT!!!!

SHOP HERE:  ETSY - GRNPEP

In a few days all the funds will transfer from Etsy to my bank, then I will turn around and submit back to them on the Etsy Advocacy page, where they will match us dollar for dollar, to benefit Cerf+, making the safety net for artists a little bit bigger.  With a total sell out we will contribute, with Etsy, $8000+.  HOW COOL IS THAT?

This is by far the biggest project I've ever embarked on - a real learning experience.  It's not a comfortable place for me - asking for donations.  I never even did well selling Girl Scout cookies, but this project has become really important to me.  Thank you again for hearing and responding to the promotions by the whole team, and for helping to spread the word.  WE ARE NEARLY DONE!

 

 

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Just about five years ago we were getting prepared for SuperStorm Sandy to arrive in New Jersey.  Who knew that hurricanes, or their remnants could affect us in the middle of the state?  We have had a flooded basement more than once due to hurricanes!  Luckily, with Sandy, our home and yard were spared any damage but we were without power for nine days.  It was dark and cold - the day being even shorter because candles and flashlights don't make a big difference in November.  We had filled our gas tanks, which was a blessing as there were issues with getting some after the storm.  Our only warmth came from sitting in the car, motor running in the driveway, so we could listen to the radio to get caught up on news, and recharge our phones.  One of us would run down to the corner store for hot coffee - never tasted so good.  Once the power was back on, and the refrigerator restocked, life was nearly back to normal.  

I simply couldn't imagine what it would be like to lose everything like so many have in recent tragedies.  Hurricane, flood, fire, earthquake.  At a time when one might want to turn to creativity to process the loss and escape from reality, or to continue making stuff because that's how you support your family, and all your resources are gone, Cerf+ is a resource that can help.

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Spreading Positivity

Have you seen our fundraiser to assist artists?  Our LIMITED EDITION Artists For Artists packets are selling fast.  We've received glowing responses and it's been a thrill to see the orders come in from all around the globe as fellow artists believe in the cause.  In addition to the prints of original art, you get a stencil of my favorite shape, the plus sign (or square cross).  We included this as a fun tool for you to use in your studio to continue spreading positivity - we could all use more of that.  With all that's been happening around us it can be a challenge to maintain a positive attitude, don't you think?  Putting more + + + + + is a good thing.

SHOP HERE: Etsy - GRNPEP

 

If you are new to using stencils....where have you been?  I'm only kidding.  When you join our fundraiser you get the stencil/mask set all in one piece.  The masks are tabbed in, and need to be sliced carefully with a sharp tool.  See below.  Also illustrated are the stencils and masks being used in a simple way - with paint directly on a surface, or with gesso as a base.  My favorite method is to apply paint, then lift it back out.  It's sort of a pull/push as you wipe away the paint, and reveals a nice line with less medium around it.  I like the "keeps then guessing" effect.

 

 

Some of the artists in the project used the "+" stencil - see how they incorporated in into their original art.

 

Here I've used the stencil with silver leaf for the cover of my Silver Linings Journal. 

And a spread from my Cardboard Journal, marking and cutting + + + + + + + +

I've framed my print...sits by the front door to wash positivity over all who come and go.

 

 

THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL THE AMAZING SUPPORT.  

WE ARE NEARING THE FINISH LINE.  

IF YOU WANT TO CONTRIBUTE, IT'S TIME TO JOIN US NOW!!!  

How about one for you and one for a friend?  It's all good ++++

www.etsy.com/shop/GRNPEP

Making a Difference

This time last year I launched Manhole Madness Month. I fully intended to make it an annual event and have been collecting content all year for another month of manhole coolness but then I got sidetracked by something way more important - making a difference. It's been heartbreaking to observe all the devastation following the hurricanes...so I launched a fundraiser to benefit artists affected by these tragedies. You can join us - see my previous post HERE or my Etsy (GRNPEP) to make a $20 purchase of Art Cards + Stencil. The proceeds will be donated to CerfPlus.org thru Etsy who will match $ for $, making our collective contribution over $8000.

Let's sell out!!!

Before the month is over I will likely post something about manhole covers because I can't resist, but I will definitely update you on the fundraiser.  In the meantime, spread the word!  Thanks to all who have participated so far - much much appreciated!

 

Artists for Artists - FUNDRAISER

I'm excited to finally announce this!  

Together with my treasured friends, we cordially invite you to join our fundraiser to benefit artists who need help getting back on their feet after so many natural disasters.  

We are selling a product package that includes eight (8) super cool Art Print cards and a stencil/mask set so you can keep the momentum of positivity moving forward with your own creations.  ALL PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT ARTISTS IN NEED.

EDIT:  SOLD OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!   To purchase, visit my Etsy shop HERE:  GRNPEP/Etsy.com

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The idea began following the heartbreak and destruction we witnessed in Houston and surrounding areas because of Hurricane Harvey, but then came Irma, Maria, and earthquakes, and fires.  Making donations for recovery is necessary and essential to get people and families back in their homes, and there is an enormous amount of clean up and rebuilding to be done so we applaud the generous contributions this nation has made to the cause.  But in addition to giving, it feels good to actually DO something.  Since I'm not in a position to drop everything to drive south to help clear debris, I thought I could still offer time and talent, so I created a fundraiser, using art for good.

As I was researching places to give, I came across Craft Emergency Relief Fund, also known as CerfPlus.org, which is a national non-profit foundation that provides assistance, specifically for artists.  For artists!  The path of destruction not only ruined neighborhoods, schools, churches, and businesses, it crushed spirits.  We want to lift up artists who have been affected, and Cerf+ will do that. Then I learned that Etsy is matching donations to Cerf+, dollar for dollar. (It was a sign that I made the right choice!)  So if you join in our efforts, they will be doubled when we make the donation!  You can imagine that resources like Cerf+ are greatly appreciated by fellow artists who benefit from the assistance, and that additional donations are even more necessary today.

Please spread the word and share the link and let's get this fundraiser sold out!  GRNPEP/Etsy.com 

Come on!  Groovy art plus a chance to make a difference.  It's win-win!

#artists4artists2017 

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In addition to the ArtistsForArtists Art Print cards + Stencil/Mask package, Sam and I have been working on cards for the shop that will be included in the total donation.  Usually for sale in his Etsy shop (ForYourSpecialNeeds), we've moved these special edition cards to my shop for the fundraiser.  Cards are sold in sets of four (4) warm OR four (4) cool colors with lots of positivity included.

 

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Why Art Print cards?  Over the years I've been involved in a number of artist-based fundraisers that were auctions of original art.  While these were worthy endeavors and raised respectable sums, the platform catered to bidders with big wallets.  I recall thinking that in addition to the original art, it was too bad that time didn't allow for the production of affordable prints of the same art, making it an available option for everyone, therefore casting a wider net of potential donors.  With that in mind I determined that affordable packages of really wonderful art could be just the thing to collectively contribute to the cause.  My friends rose to the occasion, contributing their art under a short deadline, and we are on our way! 

Thanks to these artists for donating their work for this project:

Julie Prichard, JuliePrichard.com

Michelle Ward, MichelleWard.typepad.com

Lynne Perrella, LKPerrella.com

Judi Riesch

Laurie Mika, MikaArts.com

Lisa Hoffman, LisaHoffman.typepad.com

Mary Beth Shaw, MBShaw.com

Andrew Borloz, AndrewBorloz.blogspot.com

 

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Visit CerfPlus.org for more information on their program assisting artists.  They are also a terrific resource for preparation and recovery.

If you want to make an additional donation to be matched by Etsy, go HERE.
 

 

 

Grand Illusion

In the September/October issue of Somerset Studio, I've presented recent work on an unfinished wood castle.  You'll see I have a guest in my column - my friend Andrew Borloz shares his design treatment on the same item.  It's really terrific example of how there is always a means to "make it your own", the name of my column ;)   Be sure to click through to Andrew's blog post that further illustrates his colorful process and inspiration: HERE. 

This was such a fun project - working on the surfaces, then creating chess characters to inhabit the fortress.  My first impression, upon opening the structure on the store shelf:  Escher.  Scroll down for samples of his black and white work, with dizzying staircases.  You can see why he inspired my design direction.  Lots of stenciling on the outside, and collage on the inside - not as easy to paint in there so I relied on some favorite old engravings and copies of my own previous work.  Had to add in a few dollhouse ladders too - definitely a fun-house for adults.  This castle is still available at Michael's in the event you want to give a try.  (Don't forget to use your coupon).

Magazine is available now, thru Stampington.com or at your favorite bookstore.

 Sending positive vibes to our friends in Texas and Florida.  I'm working a fundraiser with some friends - you can help!  Stay tuned.

remembering England's Rose

We were having a birthday party.  Peter was turning seven on that August 31, 1997.  We had a house full of friends when a call came to turn on the tv.  The next week was a media infused haze.  And just as I had done sixteen years earlier for the Royal Wedding - an early morning alarm clock was set to be awake to witness the coverage of the funeral.  Those gonging bells during the cortege procession are still haunting, revisited this month on many tribute shows (I've been watching all of them).  In the small town where we lived at the time, a local reporter, who was an acquaintance, interviewed Graham with inquiry about how his family back in England were responding to the devastating news.  I can imagine it was similar to what people felt when JFK died - although I can't completely compare since I hadn't been born yet when he passed in 1963.  

She was a beautiful soul, teaching us how important it is to make a difference.  "You were the grace that placed itself,
Where lives were torn apart".

 

 

Thinking this week about how we can make a difference in Texas from our comfortable positions in safe homes.  Prayers, certainly. Positive vibes, of course.  Donations, done.  There has to be more we can do.....think with me.  

Thank you for helping me say She Matters.  It's been nine years.  Putting on Pink Socks today.

SGP sale - Friday and Saturday

ALL stencils at StencilGirlProducts.com are on sale this Friday and Saturday - July 7th + July 8th.  It is Mary Beth Shaw's birthday and there are treats for everyone!  14% off your entire order!  So many great designs to choose from - now is the time to stock up!

You can find my designs here:  Michelle Ward for StencilGirlProducts.  Be sure to browse around and prepare your wishlist so you're ready to place an order during the sale.  

*fireworks*

Old Faithful - TAGS

The July/August issue of Somerset Studio just arrived.  Below is a sneak peek of my article. Who doesn't love tags?  I consider them to be perfect platform for all kinds of creativity and have been using them for over twenty-five years, therefore I call tags "Old Faithful". The entire magazine is full of them as that was their selected theme.  Lots of good stuff.

 

In May/June I was lucky to be featured in Cloth Paper Scissors with my new Grid Iron stamps.  More tags!  Thanks Jeannine for the opportunity to show off the new rubber.

 

And speaking of faithful....you know I'm a die-hard HIM fan.  They have announced their farewell tour. *sad face*  Just got my tickets today - to two shows.  *happy face*  Wouldn't it be nice if the threat of a farewell tour was similar to other bands who have claimed the same, but continue to hit the road?  If not, we can always hope for solo projects from the beloved members.  

Roses have bloomed

Even more glorious today than they were last week, here are some of my rose bushes.  First photo:  roses planted in 2008.  Second photo:  roses planted in 2011.  All of them are tributes to honor my sister's life.  I definitely feel her....and with these, I can see her.

 

And this one, called Daring Spirit, was a special gift from two friends in remembrance of my Grandma Kelly after she departed for heaven two years ago at age 102.  This is the first big bloom I've gotten since it was planted.  It smells good too!

 

Graham spent the weekend planting shrubs and filling the planters and bird feeders.  The yard is a menagerie.  Butterflies, bees, birds, bunnies and a family of kittens are regular visitors....and our goldfish pond is thriving as the fish are entering their third season here. Pool is open, beach towels are washed, (still have to blow up all the floaties) but we are ready for warmer temps...bring on summer!  

 

5.17.17

I caught this photo Tuesday afternoon.  With the heat expected today, there is no doubt this will open up for a birthday sign from Shannon.  There are a few dozen that look ready to follow, and by the end of the week it will be a glorious show.  The first rose bush planted in honor of my sister in 2008 is well over ten feet high.  At one point I had over twenty bushes, but get this....all the non-pink roses have perished.  Pink has taken over.  You can't even see where the non-pink bushes were since the pink ones have filled in the vacant spaces.  Love that.  More photos soon.

Miss you sweet Shannon.  *blows kisses*

Happy Mother's Day

This is a rose from last year, my blooms are not quite ready to show off yet, see below.  

Hope you have a glorious day.

Playing with Fire

The new Somerset Studio just arrived.  Here is a sneak peek of my article.  You know you're onto something good when you can't stop. At some point you have to put down the tool, quiet the inner voice that keeps coming up with additional ways to push the technique, then document the body of work with the camera, and start writing about the experience.  When you're in the groove you fear that hitting pause may become a permanent hold.  However, as I showed you last weekend with the tattooed eggs, it was not hard to get back my mojo a few weeks after the premier voyage into pryography.  I think this one will keep my attention for some time.

 

 

How cool is this?  Two weeks ago the new Uppercase magazine arrived.  A writer named Brendan Harrison wrote an article about pyrography too, also called Playing with Fire.  I loved hearing his take on it.  

 

Thanks to all my friends who have stepped up swiftly and lovingly to support another friend.  And to those of you I've never met, how cool that you joined in too and have trusted me to pass along your positive messages of healing and cheer.  I know it's going to be powerful as I can feel the spirited energy within each piece.

Happy Easter!

 

I've become enamored with wood burning.  Using my heated tip stencil cutter, I have tried several of the replaceable nibs in the kit on all kinds of wood shapes.  Here are some of my eggs.  My next post will show more pieces that were included in my upcoming article for the May/June Somerset Studio.  

Have a Happy Easter!

Maker's Day NJ

This weekend there are hundreds of Maker's Day events taking place in communities throughout New Jersey.  Check the website NJMakersDay.org to find an event near you on Friday and Saturday.  Initially launched from my own local library, we are proud be included as a vendor on Sunday, March 26 for their Maker's Market at Piscataway Kennedy Library.  Sam will have his painted cards, and our Special Olympic teammate Keith will be there too, with his birdhouses.  We hope you'll stop by!!

 

 

3.17.17

Yesterday was the four year anniversary of adopting our sweet black cat Lucky.  They told us she was likely about a year old so we claim today as her birthday.  We sure got lucky with her.  She is precious.  I think that luck is all in perspective, but it's been said that those who work the hardest, are the luckiest.  Often attributed to Thomas Jefferson:  I am a great believer in luck. The harder I work, the more of it I seem to have.  Hope you find yourself lucky not just today, but always.

 

NEW NY stamps

As you know, last year we released a series of stencils with a New York City theme - designed by me, manufactured and sold by The Ink Pad NYC.  Earlier this month they started selling stamp sets that coordinate with the stencils.  There are unmounted sets, trimmed, on cling foam, as well as several images available on wood mounts.  They are not yet listed in their online shop but you can pick up in the store (37 Seventh Avenue at the corner of 13th Street) or call to order anytime.  212.463.9876 

EDIT:  Stamps NOW available online! Click HERE to transport to ShopTheInkPad.com

 

 

 

EDIT:  Stamps NOW available online! Click HERE to transport to ShopTheInkPad.com 

 

Happy Heart Day!

3 years = 12,000+ pins

Last week I was privileged to teach to an AP Art class at our local high school.  We had a great time pulling prints from the Gelli Arts printing plate, as well as plain old paper to paper printing of hand-cut collagraphs.  After amassing a pile a papers, they created a small journal or a grid collage, or both.  I will show photos from the event next week.  Below is a practice print I made to get warmed up for class - using a stencil that is having it's three year anniversary today!  

 

 

Not long ago I started paying attention to the changes at Pinterest.  They seem to continually change their format - just when I think I get how it works, it changes.  It's likely they don't actually change it that regularly, but seems like it since I don't visit very often.  One new feature seems to be that they have figured out how to compile close-to-accurate numbers for how often a photo/graphic is pinned. It used to be that you would see an item pinned from your blog with a quantity of 10 or 20 next to it, then see the same item further down the page with a 15, 30, or 50.  There was a photo montage from my blog that had registered over a 1000 pins and I thought that was pretty cool, until I visited it this week and discovered, because of the new calculating wizardry, that the pin is now on over 12,200 boards.  (see HERE if you're on Pinterest) HCIT?

I can't believe it's been three years TODAY since these stencils came out.  Designed in October 2013, they were released with Stencil Girl Products on January 27, 2014.  Here's an abbreviated posting of my original.  

 

 

 

These stencils are available at STENCILGIRLPRODUCTS.COM and GREENPEPPERPRESS.COM

 

 

I'm up!

Today it's my turn to share a video lesson for Nathalie's Creative JumpStart.  Have you joined in?  It's been a fun month of learning all kinds of tricks and techniques.  You can sign up anytime, click HERE.

2017!

Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy 2017!

Recently my friend Seth asked a handful of bloggers to calculate our most popular blog posts for a re-cap he presented on his blog.  It was heartwarming to observe and recognize that my most visited post was the announcement of Sam's invention of "purpose" and the opening of his online shop: see HERE.  Also in the top ten was a follow-up, when he was featured in my column for Somerset Studio: see HERE.   I know that blog reading is down in general, and that most people tend to visit on facebook rather than clicking through to see full posts.  So I thank you all for taking the time to swing by here, and to check in from time to time with your kind comments.  

Here's to a creative and productive year ahead for all of us. I hope you find your purpose (one or more!) and that if you already know yours, that you can help a loved one find theirs.  

silver linings seeker

On the newsstands now or very soon, the Jan/Feb Somerset Studio - with my article: Silver Linings.  Made with gelli prints that were painted back in October 2013, I decided to finally USE THEM as they were in peril of being pitched.  Pages are stitched together - a tip I got from my friend Julie Prichard in one of her online classes.  I'm a Silver Lining seeker - trying to see the good in every situation, no matter how difficult.  Quotes of affirmation, collected over time, now reside in this new journal.  See the article for more about the process.

 

 

 

Don't miss out on the early registration discount for CreativeJumpStart2017.  Offer good through the ball drop on Saturday night.  Join in for a full month of creativity videos and giveaways - from 27 artists.  Last year was so much fun - my first time as a presenter. Happy to be back again.  Come along!!

from our house to yours

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Seasons Greetings, and Cheers for a Happy New Year!

CLS 2017 sneak peek

Have you signed up for Creative JumpStart yet?  You can still get an early registration discount of $45 until the end of December. (Regular pricing of $50 on 1/1/17) Why not get enrolled now, before the ramped up activities of the holidays?  Sign up and and sit back, knowing that throughout January you can re-motivate your creativity on a daily basis with videos by 27 artists.  Treat yourself!  Click HERE.

Here's a sneak peek of the supplies I use for my project video.  Debris from your table will work!