Jumping In with Journal52: Week One

I am happy to be starting 2014 off with a few new art adventures.  The first is Journal52, which is a weekly online art prompt and the second is called Creative Jumpstart 2014.  So with the first creative prompt of "up, up and away" and with some inspiration from "jumping," I created my first journal spread of 2014.

I used a journal I had on hand.  In order to keep the book sturdy I plan to reinforce each page with tape.  I think it will end up pretty thick as things progress.  The tape shown here is hot new product from Graphic 45.  I am absolutely in love with it.

I tried to get the texture thing going on this page with layers of ink, molding paste by Liquitex, distress stain, stickels and a few drips of alcohol inks.  I also buffed on some gilders paste, edged my pages with stain and used pencil to make marks and scribble.

The circles were from prints I made on a friends gelli plate a few weekends ago.  I was happy to put one of my freshly made images to use in my journal.  Lots of details and marks were added with markers, paint pens and even water.  I love playing with the distress stains, you can achieve some great texture with this product since it interacts with water.  Here is where I used Natalie's prompts from Creative Jumpstart, using household items to make my marks.

My goal in this book is to actually journal!  This is a tough one for me...one.  Not only do I have to be open to commit words to a page, I have to scribble my handwriting all over the page, which while it may seem simple, for me it is a daunting task.  

Let's see if I can keep this momentum grooving!

Cheers, 

Rhea

Round Robin: Faces Art Journal

This post is to highlight my recent installment in a round robin for my Kindred Souls art group.  This book belongs to Eileen, she has a wonderful blog.  The theme of her book is faces, and I have to admit, I was stuck.  I don't typically include a lot of people or faces in my work.  I really don't know why, but it has been a stumbling point in the past as well.

This sat on my art table for a while, as I slowly built up my page.  Finally today, inspiration struck and I was able to complete it.  I found the central image in a drawer of paper scraps.  A stamp that was dipped in UTEE long ago was added along with lots of layers of text and a Dresden border.  I have had a piece of resin paper I keep tearing off of, and I have been pleased to have this lying around.  

I could not help adding some junk.  I would have kept building on this charm, but I did not want to add too much weight...I think I already may have though!!!  

I had intended to add this face image, on the front of the page, but it just did not happen at the time.  I am pleased with the results on the back though, even if the subject matter is a bit mashed up and quirky. 

Hopefully Eileen will like my contribution!  I look forward to sharing the next installment as well as my finished book someday.

Cheers, 

Rhea