Sunday, January 24, 2016

I went for it!!!!

Words I never imagined I'd read in my inbox.  At first I assumed this couldn't be real...but then I reminded myself that I am an active participant in my life. I made a commitment to be open to possibilities and receiving positive feedback. My life-long habit of inwardly snuffing out the good and not believing friends who were being honest, supportive and loving was destructive. And it perpetuated a cloud of negativity in my life. In quiet moments of reflection, I recognize and appreciate that taking a leap of faith is extremely powerful and gives me reason to feel grateful, fortunate and loved. The response might be quietly subtle or big and obvious, but it is always present. Following this moment of reflection, I read the email a second time.  
"I would love to talk to you about including some of your pieces in one of our upcoming publications. I really think your art would be a great fit in our magazine."  

As I have hinted to above, I am very skilled at taking an interaction like this down a million plus one negative paths, but I choose to be an active participant in my life!  I choose to immerse myself in the excitement of the possibility.  It is possible that my art will be selected for the summer publication and this is cool. It is possible that if my art is selected, I will have the opportunity to write a few words about my inspiration and process. This is amazing! And really exciting!!!

I asked my friends for advice (a lot of advice actually - ha!) about how many pieces to send, and which pieces to send, and is it possible to send too many pieces?  Everyone was positive and they all told me to go for it.  So I did.  I went for it!!!  

I expect to hear back within the next 3 weeks and I'll keep you posted.  Send positive vibes and thanks so much for visiting!!  xoxoxo 

"The Submission Box"


Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Journey by Number

I love vintage maps.  They're cool.  They're full of colors, lines, shapes, words, numbers, grids...a vintage paper map is loaded with creative goodness.  Maps mean a trip, a journey, traveling, driving, flying, visiting, a change of scene, a local adventure...even more creative goodness.  I love numbers and shapes and patterns and circles and squares.  I use stamps to create repeating circle and square and grid patterns or add lines and letters and numbers and shapes of all kinds.  I love adding totally touchable texture with modeling paste or glass bead gel with stencils.  love that people ask me if it's okay to touch the canvas and I always say yes!  It's such a great compliment.  

I begin every canvas with by creating a collage from items that bring me inspiration such as torn pieces of scrapbook paper, vintage magazine print, dictionary pages, junk mail inserts, business reply envelopes (numbers and patterns!), things with grids like vintage journal entry papers, dress pattern papers, playing cards with numbers and letters, tags of all shapes and sizes...the list is unending because delicious and inspiring pieces of paper are all around.  

And so I take these individual pieces and combine them with bright colorful paint and splashes of ink to make my version of mixed media collage art.  It's fun!  It's playful!  It's bright!  

The Journey by Number series combines vintage maps, numbers and patterns.  I wonder if you've visited one of the places on the map!  You never know.....   Thanks for visiting!!...xoxoxo....








Saturday, October 31, 2015

The Giving Tree

"The Giving Tree" is a commissioned mixed media art collage that I completed over the summer.  My customer requested a custom collage for her sister's birthday.  She had recently retired after working as a librarian for many, many years and this was a special time that she wanted to recognize.  She told me a little about her sister, her love of reading, her children, her grandchildren.  She also said her sister loved bright, vibrant yellows and ocean blues.  Of course I accepted this commission - how exciting! And inwardly I needed to squelch that initial voice of worry in my head...

If you follow a favorite artist, you'll at least once have heard them say that some of their best creativity came from following the emotional process and trusting their instincts.  I am here to tell you that this is true, but not necessarily easy.  There comes a point when you need to shed the past and stop asking for permission.  It's okay to make mistakes, begin again, and ask yourself to go deeper.  There comes a point when you need stop listening to the voice of worry...or...hear those voices in a different way. Open up your arms and allow yourself to be vulnerable!  

I started this commission by doing what I knew how to do....I started from a place of comfort.  I imagined a bright, textured sun and a vibrant blue sky with light, slim clouds gently moving across the landscape.  That is perfectly respectable!  So I went about doing just that.  I selected the canvas size, set the first couple layers of paper in yellows and blues, and selected the flower stencil I'd use for the sun.  Once the modeling paste was set, I looked at the canvas and saw potential for a tree.  "But that's not what I'm working on here", I responded to the tree, "I'm working on a big beautiful sun and a brilliant sky with light clouds..." 

I brought to canvas to my customer for an initial review of color and design.  And I couldn't stop seeing a tree...a tree...that's a tree...look at that tree...a big, beautiful, full bloom tree...  But my customer and I discussed the sun, the sky and the horizon.  At the end of our meeting I surprised myself by asking for the names of her sister's children and grandchildren....to include...maybe for the clouds?...."I'm a tree...a tree...I'm a tree and the names belong mixed into my beautiful leaves," said the voice of inspiration.  "But I've spent so much time on the sun and the clouds already!" I responded to the tree. "I'm a tree....I'm a tree!!...I'm a Giving Tree of life and love and family and faith..."  The tree won.

After several weeks of work on the initial canvas, I started the commission over again from scratch. Which at the time frightened me due to how much time I'd already spent and given that her sister's birthday was long past. But the tree was screaming at me at this point and I had no choice but to begin again.  I shared this new inspiration and design with my customer and she was very supportive (thankfully!!).  And so I continued on with the tree.  I thought I was just about finished when I received an email.  My customer thought a little more about the tree...and shared that her sister spent a lot of time reading.  She said it would be lovely if I could incorporate a reader into the canvas, but that it wasn't necessary.  

Oh boy.  Oh my goodness. I still needed to include the family names, the granddaughter's cute phrases to their grandmother and the inspirational message. Oh boy. A reader. Where would I fit a reader? I need a larger canvas! Oh boy..... Now that she said it, I couldn't turn away.  I had to figure this out. The idea was out there...released into the universe.  And the tree seemed to agree....

And so I introduce "The Giving Tree" a commissioned mixed media art collage by Danene Elise Designs.  Now when I look at this picture, I can't imagine The Giving Tree without her reader.  As it turns out, this custom collage pushed me into a new place emotionally and artistically.  I am incredibly grateful for this experience.  And my customer loved the end result.  Thank you for visiting and I invite you to reach out xoxoxo!! 




Saturday, March 7, 2015

Road Trip: Enjoy the Journey

"Enjoy the Journey" is an original, one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering an 8" X 8" deep edge wooden panel with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture. I used Golden Glass Bead Gel to give this additional texture and movement, and I added color with vibrant blues, purples, yellows and oranges. The front grill of the car is an upcycled group of computer resistors and the headlights are vintage buttons with a touch of patina. 

I love the idea of a road trip: it's a beautiful spring day and you're cruising down a winding road in a vintage car...the day is full of possibilities and the tank is full!  

This mixed media collage is available through my Etsy store - danene elise designs.

Thanks so much for visiting!  xoxo



Friday, January 2, 2015

Home: Where Our Story Begins

This is my first mixed media collage for 2015!  I wish you a very happy and healthy new year! 

"Home: Where Our Story Begins" is an 9" X 11" mixed media collage made using a wide edge canvas covered in layers of scrapbook paper, vintage ephemera, colorful paints and modeling paste for added texture.  This collage includes vintage buttons, vintage ribbon, a fabric flower and a fabulous painted Masonite heart.  The houses stand out in vibrant primary colors against a mixed yellow, orange, green and blue background.  

This mixed media collage is available through my Etsy store - Danene Elise Designs.  

Thanks so much for visiting!!...xoxoxoxoxo....




Monday, December 29, 2014

We Like Us

"We Like Us" is an 8" X 10" mixed media collage made using Tim Holtz Layering StencilsStampotique Stamps, vintage ephemera and vibrant blues, yellows, reds, greens and purples.  The canvas is layered with pieces of scrapbook paper, vintage dictionary pages, paper shopping bag pieces, mod podge, paint, modeling paste.  

It was important to me that each of the Stampotique stamps that I used had a visible heart. I used Smooch ink to color their hearts purple as a sign of their bond to one another and their intention to be true to themselves. Let me introduce you to Liaka, Connie Shows off her nails, and Buru.  These guys are the coolest.  I feel like they're inviting me to hang out with them for a bit...and I know you're invited too!    

Thanks so much for visiting!!....xoxoxoxoxoxo



Saturday, December 27, 2014

She is Inspired

"She is Inspired" is an original, one of a kind, mixed media collage that I made by layering a 8" X 10" canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture.  This is a collage made using Tim Holtz Layering Stencils, a Dylusions stamp, vintage ephemera and vibrant oranges, reds, yellows, blues and greens.  

After layering the canvas with vintage papers and adding texture using modeling paste and the Tim Holtz Alphabet stencil, I went to my fabulous, fabulous Dylusions Stamps stash and chose Curious Corin to add a bold statement to the canvas.  She's colored in using vibrant and shimmery Smooch ink.  When I look in her eyes, I see strength and positive energy which I find to be quite inspirational!!  Do what you love....    

Thanks so much for visiting!! xoxoxoxoxoxo



Friday, December 26, 2014

Journaling Fun

I'm having a great time working on this journal cover.  Journaling is super popular right now and I have a tendency to shy away from 'the most current at the moment thing' but I have to admit that spending time focused on coloring in the cover of my fabulous new journal has been both rewarding and relaxing. I think I get it! 

I love using the gel pens too. I've already used an entire black pen due to retracing the gorgeous design. I'm filling in with sharpie colors covered by the gel pen or the colored gel pens on their own.  The gel is so shiny - I love the added flair.

Even more exciting knowing that there are blank journal pages waiting for attention...and to think I've been blocking myself by not joining in the journaling fun!! Thanks for visiting!!...xoxoxo


Monday, December 22, 2014

Fabulous Journal

found this fabulous journal by DianeKappa at Marshall's for $5.99 and it was screaming at me to take it home and start coloring...so I listened!!  The journal is nice and thick. The paper is so nice and smooth and it has a grid print or as I prefer to call it - miniature polka dots haha...

The sharpie markers I started using are a bit flat on the surface which isn't surprising because it's similar to kraft paper. Tomorrow I'll be popping over to Michaels for some Sakura Glaze pens because I know those will sit on top and look shiny fabulous!!...and I needed an excuse to buy some of those lol...

I will share some pics once I've covered a bit of the surface.  Thanks for visiting!!...xoxo





Monday, December 15, 2014

I Am Free

"I Am Free" is an original, one of a kind, mixed media collage that I made by layering a 4" X 12" canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture.  This is a collage made using Tim Holtz Layering Stencils, a stencil from Retro Cafe Art, vintage ephemera and vibrant oranges, reds, yellows and greens.  

After layering the canvas with vintage papers and adding texture using modeling paste and the Tim Holtz Numbers stencil, I went to my stash of whimsical Retro Cafe Art stencils.  Where else can you find such a cool set of versatile and fun stencils??  I've used the dinosaur stencils in the past (again, too cool) but this background called for something more groovy...and so, I introduce you to 'Boogie'.  She is Free to dance the night away...and you know what....I might just join her!!  

Thanks so much for visiting!! xoxoxoxoxoxo


Sunday, November 9, 2014

Dare to be Yourself

"Dare to be Yourself" is an original, one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 4" X 12" canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture.  This is a collage made using Tim Holtz Layering Stencils, Stampotique Stamps, vintage ephemera and vibrant blues, oranges an purples. 

Earlier in the day and while I was cleaning up my studio, I had been choosing random stamps to stamp on plain paper.  These two were in my random selection and they happen to be the catalyst for my projects.  Yippee!!...Aren't Minkeygirl and Gibi the absolute coolest??  I used shimmery Smooch ink to highlight the girls here and there, such as Gibi's rocking pocketbook or Minkeygirl's heart.  I love these stamps!  

What better message for these girls to spread but to Dare to be Yourself?  Many of us need a little reminder now and then to be true to ourselves.  Thanks so much for visiting!! xoxoxoxoxoxo


She is Brave

"She is Brave" is an original, one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 4" X 12" canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture. This is a collage made using Tim Holtz Stencils, a Dylusions Stamp, vintage ephemera and vibrant purples, yellows and blues.    

I went into the studio with a blank canvas (pun...intended?...lol) and I started layering scraps of paper I had collected with no specific plan in mind.  What a great experience!!  The next piece that came to mind for me was the Tim Holtz layering stencil Numbered because I love numbers - and I happen to have this fabulous stencil nearby, cool, right!?!  From there I wanted to stay light in my focus and let the layers build themselves.  And to finish this collage, I chose Dependable Dotty from Dylusions colored with shimmery Smooch ink.  

She Shines, She Dreams, She Creates, She is Brave and she wants to share her positive message with you! Thanks so much for visiting!! xoxoxoxoxo




Sunday, November 2, 2014

I Choose You This Day and Every Day

"I Choose You This Day and Every Day" is a custom collage I was commissioned to make as wedding gift this past summer.  I knew that the couple was married on the beach and the bride loved shades of Tiffany blue, reds and golds.  I wanted this collage to be relaxed, young, happy and non-traditional.  I also wanted it to be beach inspired with my twist so they're standing on colorful circles of sand....with a beautiful and bold sun shining on them.  

One of the first comments people make when they see a picture of this collage is that the bride isn't wearing shoes and I absolutely love that!!  But then they begin to see the hidden messages, such as 'This makes me happy' or "Remember This' or the ampersand in the lower right corner that the bride is leaning against.      

I am thankful to have had the opportunity to create this collage.  I wish them heartfelt joy and happiness in their marriage!  Thanks for visiting!!...xoxoxoxo....




  

Loved Her Right Back

"Loved Her Right Back" is an original, one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 10" X 10" wide edge canvas with scrapbook paper and blue, red and yellow acrylic paints. I used a bit of cardboard, a bit of fabric, and a metal pin along with some modeling paste for texture and variation. Then I add more layers and visual interest with ink, stamps, rub ons.  It's just the right size to fill a nook on your wall or site on your table with a family photo.   

I'm really pleased with how this collage turned out.  I wanted to create something out of an every day item and the nearby cardboard box was just perfect!  I balanced the weight of the cardboard with the shimmery softness of a lime green fabric bow.  I fastened the bow to the hear with a decorative metal pin.  

I truly believe we need to love ourselves first and I will pass this message on in every collage so that you can share in this positive vibe!  Thanks so much for visiting!! xoxoxoxoxo






Monday, September 1, 2014

Fall in Love with Yourself First

"Fall in Love with Yourself First" is an original one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 12" X 12" deep edge canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture. This is a collage of a bold orange/yellow asymmetrical heart surrounded by vibrant turquoise and red with touches of black, yellow, blue and green.  

The deep edge of the canvas makes it the perfect width to stand on a bookshelf or sit on your desk with family photo.  And it's the perfect size to fill a nook on your wall.    

I believe that we live fuller, richer lives when we love and respect ourselves first.  Thanks for visiting!....xoxoxoxo





Monday, August 25, 2014

Do One Thing Every Day That Makes You Happy

"Do One Thing Every Day That Makes You Happy" is an original one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 12" X 12" deep edge canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture. Then I add more layers and visual interest with acrylic paint, ink, stamps, rub ons and embellishments.  I love to see the scrapbook paper showing through the paint, adding more visual interest.  

This is a pretty and bright melon, blue and green collage with a heartfelt message.  'Live with Intention' is hiding in there as well!  The deep edge of the canvas makes it the perfect width to stand on a bookshelf or sit on your desk with a family photo.  And it's the perfect size to fill a nook on your wall.  Thanks for visiting!....xoxoxoxo....


Sunday, August 17, 2014

Do What You Love

"Do What You Love" is an original one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 9" X 11" deep edge canvas with strips of scrapbook paper, modeling paste and mod podge for texture.  Then I add more layers and visual interest with acrylic paint, ink, stamps, rub ons and embellishments. This collage is made of vibrant pinks and greens in contrast to the grey asymmetrical star.  It has a lively energy when you see it in person.  The deep edge of the canvas makes it the perfect width to stand on a bookshelf or sit on your desk with a family photo.  And it's the perfect size to fill a nook on your wall.  

This collage was made using paper by Glitz DesignI was in the mood for a star!  Often times when someone sees one of my collages they apologize for wanting to touch the surface.  This is the greatest compliment!  The surface has so many textures and layers and this is my goal.  I love that they're looking below the surface and noticing the layers of paper and paint and hidden messages.  My parting thought...'Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart'.  Thanks for visiting!....xoxoxoxo....




Thursday, July 31, 2014

Summer!

I've been so busy this summer!  The warm weather and long days don't last in New England so I've been taking advantage of the outdoors.  And now it's nearly August!!

I have two new collages that I made using Dylusions stamps and stencils by Dyan Reaveley and Ranger.  If you haven't heard of Dylusions or had a chance to check out her product line, please take a look.  I love, love, love working with her collection.  Not only are they begging to be filled in with bright, vibrant colors but the collection is easily interchangable.  A lot of her products are made for journaling and her line includes a gorgeous line of Dylusions Ink Sprays that blend beautifully on canvas, paper, etc. (Check out the Dylusions Journals as well - wonderful paper!)  Dyan's style is a great deal of fun and I'm so thankful Ranger produced her stamps and ink sprays and stencils and journals!!  

I think Dylusions are made for sharing becasue they're just too cool so I released them from their journal! "Beautiful" and "Embrace" are original one of a kind mixed media collages that I made by layering 8" X 10" canvas with paper and modeling paste for texture.  Then I add more layers and visual interest with acrylic paint, ink, stamps, rub ons and embellishments.  The Dylusions are stamped on vintage papers and colored with Smooch by Clearsnap.  Smooch comes in 32 pearlized colors and adds a jazzy accent! 

I believe in sending positive thoughts out to the world so you'll find that my canvases often have positive phrases hidden here and there.  It's even better when really cool artsy stores like Red Lead Rubber Stamps & Paper Arts feel the exact same and create positive, cool stencils.  'Embrace the special moments in your life' and 'she is Joyful' came from Red Lead.  Check out their fabulous site as well!!  Thanks for visiting!....xoxoxoxoxo....

"Beautiful" by Danene Elise Designs


 
"Embrace" by Danene Elise Designs

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Start Each Day with a Grateful Heart

"Start Each Day with a Grateful Heart" is an original one of a kind mixed media collage that I made by layering a 12" X 12" deep edge canvas with paper and modeling paste for texture.  Then I add more layers and visual interest with acrylic paint, ink, stamps, rub ons and embellishments. 

This collage was a complete joy to create.  There are a couple spots with text hidden in the layers.  'It's a good day' and 'thank you' are visible in the upper right corner, but 'simplify' is layered into this piece as well.  Can you find it?  Thanks for visiting!....xoxoxoxo....