Steampunk?!

So, I'm pretty behind the times on certain terms used in the artsy/craftsy world.  "Steampunk" is everywhere and has been for awhile.  I know it when I see it, but couldn't really describe it.  I know I love it.

So, I looked it up on Wikipedia (of course) and there are some great descriptions and references including:  "Works of steampunk often feature anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as Victorians may have envisioned them; in other words, based on a Victorian perspective on fashion, culture, architectural style, art, etc"

So, when Graphics 45 came out with a paper line called Steampunk Debutante, I knew I had to check it out.  I can't get enough of it!

There are so many possibilities with the vintage, metal, grungy elements.  My imagination just won't stop.  I've picked up a lot of weird little scraps of metal, chain, tarnished jewelry and buttons.  I can use them all at once!

I love the colors on these images.  Reminds me of bronze and copper with that green patina of age. 

I'm especially attached to the circular design, but I put her in the store anyway.  I know she'll go to a good home and whoever receives her will be thrilled.

Take care of yourselves, and don't forget to daydream a little today.

Funny Faces

Happy New Year!  Well, after a loooonnnggg hiatus, I'm back.  The real job has been hopping and holiday festivities have kept us all busy around here.  No time for art or blogging.

We had a lovely little winter vacation in Vancouver and Whistler, BC.  We got to see some of the Olympic sport centers  and even skied on the biathalon course!  How cool is that?

Christmas was the usual lovely old-fashioned cozy time at my parents.  They go to such lengths to make things wonderful for Dylan.  Of course he just ate it all up.

I even had a little time to play with new art supplies and make a few things.  How about these little guys?

I found these images on dafont.com.  They have the most fun Dingbat fonts!  I just enlarged a couple and printed them on kraft paper.  Every time I look at them they make me smile.

They will be available in the store page shortly.  If you want them, you'll have to hurry.  I might steal the birthday one for a friend soon (wink).

I'll have more new treats in the store over the next few days, so keep your eyes peeled!

Here's hoping your new year starts off with a bang and just gets better.

Dylanbug at Siren Nation, Nov 7th, 11am to 5pm

I'm at the Kennedy School today at the Siren Nation Art and Craft Sale.  Lots of traffic, great vendors, food, beer and fun!

 

It's Been Awhile...

Yes, the blog has been on hiatus for a couple of months.  Many reasons for that...

My boys (big and small) were in a bicycle accident involving a car.  Although their injuries were surprisingly minor, they are still recovering.  The biggest outcome from the whole thing has been my renewed appreciation for both of them and the time we all spend together.  What could have been a life-rending tragedy was somehow turned into even more love and a reminder of what is truly important in life.

My "real" job - owner of Compass Human Resources - has been amazingly busy lately.  That is a wonderful thing.  New clients, new projects, and new adventures.

And, we've been traveling and enjoying our larger family too.

All that said, where did the art go?  Well, I've been making art here and there, and had a weekend card-making extravaganza with my mom last month.  All in preparation for the Siren Nation Art Sale this Sunday at Kennedy School.  Sorry I haven't posted any pictures - haven't had time to set things up, pose it, touch up the pics...

I hope to have some things up soon.  Just wanted to say hello and that I'm still out here :)

A Special Gift

It's been awhile since I've posted.  That's largely due to my "real" job getting very busy.  New clients and new projects - yay!

But, I have been working on some art projects too, just a little more slowly than usual.

One of the things I've been doing is making a gift for a keynote speaker that will be appearing at a conference I'm involved with.  The idea is to give him a handmade box filled with Bittersweet truffles.


This box is going to a gentleman who is a motivational speaker and professional magician.  I had a blast designing and creating this box.  Cobalt blue is one of my favorite colors to work with because it makes everything else pop.

I have a smaller prototype of this box that will be going up in my store soon.  Speaking of which, thanks for being patient while I move things over from Etsy to this site.  I have to take new pictures of some things and decide which inventory I want to put up in the new store. 

I'll be back with another project soon.  Meanwhile, enjoy what's left of summer!

Gardens and Such

I've been working on an art project this week, but it's not quite ready for showing off yet.  Funny how the day job can slow the creative process.  So, I thought I'd show you a few pictures I took on a recent trip to Washington state. 

I hope these intrigue, inspire, soothe, or provide you some simple pleasure.  Thanks for stopping by...

What's Happening?

Dylanbug had a blast at Hip Happening on Saturday.  Where were you all?  I got to hang with my pal Aimee all day.  A little slow for sales, but had a great group of vendors and the neighborhood looked great.  I got to take a break and sneak off to the antique mall for some treasures - thanks Minda!

Here are a couple of shots from the day.  The light was horrible, sorry.

Dylanbug Display - crafty goodness!

Bittersweet was on hand with hand-rolled truffles and deelicious cookies

Hope to see you all next time around!