Inspired

I've spent a lot of time in my head lately - really thinking about my art and it's direction. I've been marinating on thoughts of what's happening out in the world beyond Spokane, and setting some goals as an artist. I keep coming back to the realization that Etsy is where I've discovered some of my very most favorite artists. It's sort of unexpected - and at the same time delightful.

If you're not already familiar with them, here's some favorites you should definitely check out:

Betsy Walton

Jennifer Davis

Julia Pott

Caitlin Shearer

Lisa Congdon 

I've also been extremely inspired by some of the group shows and collaborations I've been hearing about. I'm a sucker for a good theme.

Jennifer Davis (from above) is currently exhibiting in a show titled Homeroom - at Subtext Gallery in San Diego, CA. This maybe one of the greatest themed shows I can imagine...each artist reinterprets a work from their childhood in their current style. There are some big names in this show....kinda wish I could hop a plane down there just for an evening to check it out!

I'm also seriously considering finding some of my own childhood art when I'm home for the Holidays. So I can reinterpret a piece of my own - just for fun.

I was also happy to discover 'Delightful' -  an ongoing collaboration between Davis, and the artist Amy Rice (started a few years ago). For part of it they did a series of paintings in which each others works were used as inspiration to create a corresponding piece....

Birthday Party Pony by Amy Rice
Favorite Bird by Jennifer Davis

Most of the time I find the internet a little overwhelming - realizing there is so much work out there and so many talented artists. It can also be very inspiring. ♥

Happy Happy

I have been trying to be really good about not buying things for myself constantly (remodeling the new house and all)...but, one of my very favorite artists Caitlin Shearer (from Australia) has a sale going at her etsy shop that is almost ridiculous! Her prints are half off...and Happy Birthday to me, one is coming my way!

A blog I love called Dandelion Daydreamer did a wonderful interview today with Caitlin (where you can win prints). Caitlin also has a lovely blog I follow here. Check them out, treat yourself to some art! ♥

Oh...p.s. I started a Facebook fan page yesterday. You can join it here. I was a little worried but now just feel extremely loved. Over 130 people joined and it just went up yesterday. It feels so wonderful to have a community that supports you.

I ♥ Spokane