mixed media experiments and other stuff

I have been doing all kinds of mixed media experiments over here; learning so much and having fun! This painting I did is quite a departure from my usual style but...I really love her direct gaze; without negation or apology. Also...she looks really angry...which could be because that's exactly how I have been feeling lately about my recent post re. the gendercide against girls in India! It's okay for her to look angry though...art isn't always meant to be pretty and lovely. Sometimes it's bold and has it's own story to tell. I also love the richness of the colors and the dramatic composition. So...here's what I did...I prepared my (wooden) canvas with patterned paper (gift wrap, old dictionary pages, part of toy packaging) and gesso and allowed to dry. I then used a gel transfer technique to add more dimension and imagery to the surface. I sketched in the face and used Shiva oil sticks to lay in the facial colors. I used a black Pitt brush pen to define the eyes, nose, outlines. I then used stamps to add the text (journey). I also used stamps to add a pattern to her hair. I then added acrylics and inks to the background, hair and certain parts of the face. Sorry I didn't take pics of the whole process; I meant to but completely forgot! It feels good to stretch outside of my usual parameters and try out new things. We have to give ourSELVEs permission to grow and change and break those boundaries that we so often place upon ourSELVES.

Fall is definitely in the air over here. This is Southern Ca. so our days are still hot...but the evenings are getting chilly and darkness is coming earlier and earlier every day. I for one am looking forward to things cooling down. As much as I love summer...it feels good to get out our sweaters and curl up with a good book and a cup of tea. I simply can't believe it's September already!! Where did the year go to??

I recently had an unexpected connection with someone from my very distant past. Now I don't believe in coincidences...I know that every small event is exactly as it is meant to be. It has been  a gift and I am very appreciative and grateful. Life is so full of the most amazing surprises...we never know what's just around the corner, do we?
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I am announcing the winner to the print giveaway tomorrow. Tara is going to pick the winner and well, she's asleep right now! So please stop back by!

*Tara was so excited to pick out the winner of the print giveaway today! Pat H. please contact me. Thanks to everyone for your concern, heartfelt comments and for spreading the word about the gendercide in India and China. I am going to continue talking about it ; I hope you will too.