Orange Spiral Arts

Survey-Live Zoom Art Play Dates and Learning Sessions for Fall 2022

Greetings, Everyone,

As many of you know, I am a mixed media artist and teacher.

 

Since the Fall of 2021, I have been offering Live Zoom Art Play Dates and Learning Sessions.

 

These are one-hour mixed media art classes that pack a punch.

 

There is laughter and socializing, as well as a lot of fun artful mess making.

 

If you are interested in learning more, I invite you to fill out this survey and weigh in on your preferences for Fall 2022.

Thanks so much!

 

Feel free to tell your friends who may also be interested in class.

 

To clarify, these sessions happen from home via your computer.

You are given a supply list in advance, so you can gather what you need prior to class.

 

Here's the link to the survey:

 

https://forms.gle/3UxH3LCZ7SUhdLsPA

 

You and your creativity matter!

 

Many Blessings and Gratitude,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts

2020 Handmade Holidays Buyer's Guide

Greetings, Everyone!

Some of you may know that I co-facilitate a monthly visual journaling group here in Minnesota, USA. 

Below is information on how to support members of our group this holiday season. Thanks so much for considering to support our small businesses. 

Kind Regards,

Briana of Orange Spiral Arts

 

 

Welcome to the 2020 Handmade Holiday Buyer’s Guide!

2020 has been a year of unprecedented challenges, unfathomable circumstances and, at times, surreal situations. But, during this difficult time as we have been forced to keep our distance from each other, we have overcome the obstacles, called upon our creativity and found new ways to come together. And the members of the MN Visual Journal Collective are no exception.

Formed over 10 years ago by founder Roz Stendahl, the MN Visual Journal Collective has met monthly in person to share art journaling ideas, creative inspiration, supplies and support. When the country shut down this spring, those in-person meetings were put on hold, but the group’s creativity and love for each other were not. Meetings shifted to Zoom, sharing of ideas and support were posted to Facebook and the group has kept in touch through a monthly postcard project.

Many of the artists in this group have been struggling to find ways to support their artistic businesses in a world that has been forced to move to a virtual marketplace. But one thing we have never struggled to do is come together in support of each other. In 2019, members Molly Anthony and Jenny Maroney created this buyer’s guide as a way to showcase
the work of their collective artistic communities worldwide. But this year, they knew it had a much larger purpose much closer to home. This year, the Handmade Holiday Buyer’s Guide features only the work of local Minnesota artists who are members of the MN Visual Journal Collective. Instead of simply making a list of these artists, we wanted to build a guide that would showcase their amazing work and also provide all the ways
to connect with each artist so that you can both share and purchase
their work.

When you purchase from these artists, you aren’t just receiving beautiful handmade items delivered with love, you are also supporting an independent artist, making dreams come true and are making someone do a happy dance – seriously, you may not see them, but a happy dance comes with each purchase! We hope you enjoy the Handmade holiday Buyer’s Guide and we all thank you from the bottom of our hearts for buying handmade this holiday season!

Molly & Jenny and the members of the MN Visual Journal Collective

2020 Handmade Holiday Buyer's Guide download

Download 2020 Handmade Holiday Gift Guide Final

Welcome Spring in the Midwest

Spring is here!

Maple tree (above)

When all else fails, nature is what soothes me.

May these spring photos inspire you to notice the beautiful details around you right now, too.

Cherry tree blossoms (above)

Carolina Springbeauty wildflower on the forest floor (above)

Red Pine bark detail (above)

Bloodroot (above)

Carolina Springbeauty up close (above)

Moss on a log (above) with wildflowers in the background

Trout lily leaves?? (above)

Wild fern emerging from a metallic outer covering (above) Isn't nature incredible?

Any wildflower lovers know what this one is called? (above)

"Once you free your mind, there's beauty in everything." -Alicia Keys

I am sending love and blessings out to you now. May you receive them.

Thank you for being here. You matter. You are important. You have unique gifts to offer the world.

How To Calm Your Nerves with Photography-Barred Owl Visitor as Healer

Greetings Everyone,

Yesterday, my husband ran in the house announcing that there was a huge owl in our backyard pine tree!

I went outside quickly to be sure I got a chance to see it before it flew away.

First, I went out just to see it with my eyes and soul. Ah, this was wonderful.

Next, since it did not seem to be going anywhere, I got out my digital camera with a zoom lens.

Still, the owl seemed to be napping out there, so I decided to go inside and get out my "BIG camera" and zoom lens. (Aka my digital SLR).

I was able to take many photos of this majestic creature, as it stayed in our pine tree all day long, until it was dark out.

While I was outside taking photos of the owl, I also took photos of other things I found interesting around our yard.

This photo session, and time outside in nature and sun, brought me such solace.

My hope in sharing these photos with you here is that it inspires you to look around and snap some photos. You can use your smartphone or your "fancy camera" if you have one.

Taking photos helps you narrow your focus, and pay attention to the moment.

Photography is healing for mind, body, spirit and soul.

May it be so.

Taking a photo walk in your own backyard or neighborhood is also a great activity to do with children. Children love using cameras!

Sending Love, Peace, and Blessings to You,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

PS I have many online classes available, if you are looking for art and inspiration right now. My classes focus on the process, not the product, so they are suitable for beginning artists, or people who do not consider themselves artistic. Take a look at the LEARN tab. As a teaching artist who has canceled in person workshops due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), I really appreciate your support. Thank you in advance. -Briana

New Online Class Announcement-Self-Care and Visual Journaling

Greetings!

If you have been reading my blog, you may know that I recently presented at our monthly MN Visual Journal Collective meeting on the topic of self-care and journaling. 

There were so many people who wanted to attend, yet the Minnesota weather got half the group to stay at home. That choice was good self-care! 

However, I feel there is a need, especially with all that's going on in our world, for a vehicle to practice self-care. A visual journal is a wonderful tool and companion to fill this need.

I am excited to announce that I am working on my next online class on this very subject.

Read all about it below and get in on the early bird price!

With Gratitude,

Briana

 

Welcome! You are invited to take a deep dive with me into the world of visual journaling as a self-care tool.

Self-care is not something most of us were raised learning about or had modeled for us.

It's up to us as adults to learn how to give ourselves the self-care that we need for our own health and well-being.

Let's do this together. You are not alone!

What solutions can a visual journal provide?

Q: Do you need one place to collect all of your ideas and inspirations?

A: A visual journal is a great solution.

Q: Do you need a place to track your physical, mental, or emotional ups and downs?

A: A visual journal is wonderful, as you have space to draw a human form and label what hurts, including your heart.

Q: Are you new to visual journaling and need a space to play and explore with mixed media supplies?

A: Your visual journal is just the right spot. You may want a larger size journal so you have the freedom to play.

Q: Do you long to document more about your life?

A: Open up the pages of your visual journal and start writing your observations, thoughts, gluing in photos, etc. Your life matters.

Q: Do you need a safe space to get to know yourself better?

A: A visual journal is the safe place that fulfills that need for self-connection.

Q: Do you need a place to write down your wishes and dreams?

A: A visual journaling practice helps you name, acknowledge, and potentially manifest your dreams!

Q: Would you like a safe space to connect to something greater than yourself?

A: Through writing and visual imagery work you have the opportunity to tap into the subconscious, as well as the often mysterious spiritual realm.

The visual journal is a safe place to love yourself, your whole self, all parts of yourself.

Self-compassion, self-love, self-acceptance, freedom from criticism, and non-judgment is self-care.

Self-care is also participating in activities that enhance your well-being.

If it's new to you, visual journaling for self-care may feel challenging at first, yet it can also feel kind of like a party. We are here on this planet to celebrate our lives. No, life is not easy, and yes, there are beautiful gifts hidden throughout our time here. Many of the gifts come through challenges and difficulties that we face and work through. Your visual journal is an amazing tool and companion to help you make it across the threshold.

Ultimately, I want to help remind you that you are valuable, your life matters, you have wisdom within you, and love around you.

“Self-compassion involves wanting health and well-being for oneself and leads to proactive behavior to better one’s situation, rather than passivity. And self-compassion doesn’t mean that I think my problems are more important than yours, it just means I think that my problems are also important and worthy of being attended to.”-Kristin Neff, Self-Compassion: Stop Beating Yourself Up and Leave Insecurity Behind

What You'll Get in the Self-Care and Visual Journaling Online Class:

• More information about why you want to use a journal for self-care
• 8 Videos that guide you through various exercises on how to use your journal for self-care    
• Additional resources including links to websites, books, quotes, videos, and recommended art supplies
• Up to 2 email exchanges with me over the 6 week period
• Plus lots of support and encouragement to trust yourself, love yourself, and believe in your worth

The online classroom opens on Tuesday, February 25, 2020.

Videos will be released over a period of 6 weeks (Feb. 25-March 31, 2020)

Once all videos are posted, the course will run as a self-paced online course.

Policy Note: NO REFUNDS

Important: PLEASE BE SURE YOUR PAYPAL EMAIL ADDRESS IS YOUR CURRENT EMAIL ADDRESS, AS THAT IS HOW I WILL SEND YOU THE ONLINE CLASSROOM LOGIN INFORMATION. Please allow 24-48 hours to receive your email confirmation upon registration.

Thank you so much for saying yes to yourself and for helping to support my small business. I am truly grateful.

SIGN UP HERE!

$75

Suggested Supplies:

Note: Below I am using my Amazon affiliate links. The cost to you is the same, and you are helping me get a slight kick back for referring you to buying on Amazon. It's a win-win. I only list items that I believe are listed at a fair price. I am a bargain shopper, so I won't send you to something that is way over priced.

Canson XL Mix Media Sketchbook 11 x 14 inches for freedom of expression

Royal Talens Ecoline Brush Markers

Prima Marketing Confetti Watercolor Set with Waterbrush

Crayola eXtreme Colors Twistable Crayons

Acrylic paints -Inexpensive 2 oz. bottles of Apple Barrel matte craft acrylic or acrylic paint from Target-use what you have

Paint brushes

Simply Simmons ong handle set of 5

or

Simply Simmons short handle set of 4

Ball Point Pens

Paper Mate or Bic

We'll go over more supplies in class. This will certainly get you started!

Thank you!

You and your creativity matter!

With Gratitude and Blessings,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

Self-Care and Visual Journaling-February 2020 MN Visual Journal Collective Meeting Summary

Hello Folks!

Thank you for being here.

In case you don't know me, my name is Briana, and I co-facilitate the monthly meetings for the MN Visual Journal Collective held at Wet Paint. My co-facilitator for 2020 is the amazing Molly of The Found Art Walk.

Together we plan, coordinate, and facilitate the monthly MN Visual Journal Collective meetings.

The meeting topic for February 2020 was Self-Care and Journaling. You can see the rest of the 2020 topics listed here.

If you are an adult interested in keeping a visual journal, you are welcome to attend a meeting when it meets your interest and your schedule. We ask that you pre-register via the Events link on the Wet Paint site. Here's the registration link for the Monday, March 16th, 2020 meeting.

February 17, 2020 Meeting Summary

Meeting Topic: Self-Care and Journaling

Facilitated by Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

We started out the meeting by introducing ourselves and how long we've been participating in the collective and/or keeping a journal.

We love it when new people attend the meetings. Welcome new folks! 

Briana prepared a handout about self-care and journaling that was given to participants. If you are in the MN Visual Journal Collective Facebook group you can also find the handout in the Files section.

Briana went over the idea that most of us were not raised to know what self-care is or how to bring more of it into our lives.

Self-care is ultimately doing the things you need to do (and understanding what you need to do) to maintain your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and participating in activities that enhance your well-being.

Self-care is also . . .

self-compassion

self-acceptance/self-love

AND

self-connection

A visual journal is a wonderful tool and resource for connecting with the deeper parts of yourself, and your somewhat mysterious inner world.

Journal page by Lisa Marie (LMNOP)

After Briana went over the handout, she also shared some peeks into a variety of her visual journals kept over the past 18 years.

Photo credit: Jenny Maroney

Next, the group participants were invited to share how they use their journals for self-care.

We were so delighted to see so many brave souls step up to the camera and share their journals with us! Thank you, thank you!

Above is Jenny Maroney and her journal

Above is Lisa Marie and her journal

Above is Sue Rowe sharing her journals

After this initial sharing, the group had a chance to create a journal page around the subject of self-care.

We had a second round of sharing after our work time in our journals. Again, thank you to everyone who shared, created with us, and listened so well as others spoke from the heart.

Jodi shares her page (below)

Catherine (below) bravely shared her current struggles with health changes and challenges. (Thank you, Catherine! We hear you!)

Beth shared her page spread from the night with us, too. (Viva la Frida!!)

Ann shared how she is feeling called to get out in nature.

Here's Heather sharing what she did in her journal, leaving boxes to later fill in with some journaling. People in the group really liked this idea.

Jodi shared her lovely page (below) that included some notes from the evening. She even cut part of the handout and collaged it onto her page! Great idea, Jodi!

Kari shares her journal page. A couple of people shared how they find solace by being out in nature.

Louise shared her journal page (below), featuring a photo of her and her husband from awhile ago, as well as her grandchild, who is now 12.

Angie back for a second meeting, sharing about how she was inspired by the flaps in other people's journals. Also, I loved how she wrote "This is for me."

Altered calendar planner by Margit (above)

Journal page by Sue (above)

Isn't it just so wonderful to see these peeks inside of people's personal journals? I feel so, so lucky that I get to do this once per month at the MN Visual Journal Collective meetings.

Thank you to everyone who came out to the meeting in person or in spirit! 

Visual Journaling for Self-Care Tips

Why use a journal for self-care?

• A journal is a safe place to express and process your feelings
• A journal is a space to work in without judgment
• A journal is a tool that can help you relax and feel a greater sense of calm in your mind, body, spirit, and soul
• A journal is a place to take a break from the challenges in your life, and have a little fun!

How to use a journal for self-care

• Do stream of consciousness writing exercises; writing longhand connects your heart and brain like no other activity, and has a healing effect.
• Make a list of things you can do when you're feeling overwhelmed.
• Document what brings you joy.
• Make a gratitude list.
• Make a simple collage of words and images from magazines you love.
• Write words of affirmation and encouragement to yourself.
• Doodle and make repeat patterns to get yourself into a meditative state.
• Scribble to release difficult emotions you are holding inside.

That's the summary, y'all! I hope you found something inspiring or helpful from this post.

Take a class with me! (Click here)

Briana has several upcoming classes happening around the Twin Cities, as well as online.

Your participation is how I make my living. I would be so, so honored and grateful to receive your support.

I also offer small group sessions for you and a few friends. You provide the space and snacks, I will bring all of the supplies and inspiration. Send me an email to set something up!

With Gratitude,

Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

 

21 Secrets Super Sale Starts Today

Greetings Everyone,

I have been both a participant and a guest teacher in the 21 Secrets online classes. I absolutely love them! They have taught me so much about how to use mixed media art supplies, how to break open to new ways of working, and much, much more. It is really inspiring to watch other artists work in their journals or with their chosen supplies. I am so grateful that these 21 Secrets workshops exist. 

If you are interested in learning more about mixed media art and art journaling, I highly recommend you check out 21 Secrets! There is a super sale happening right now on the following editions:

 21 SECRETS Just Add Water
 21 SECRETS The Great Outdoors

 21 SECRETS Summer Studio 2018 Bundle

21 SECRETS Paper, Glue, Scissors

 21 SECRETS Playful Experiments
 21 SECRETS Capturing Moments
 21 SECRETS Summer Studio 2019 Bundle

21 SECRETS Face Time

NOTE: You need to ENTER THE FOLLOWING CODE AT CHECKOUT to receive the 40 percent off discount: SUPERSALE

I am sharing my affiliate link here, which helps me get paid as a 21 Secrets guest teacher. I am so, so grateful for your support.

I hope you have tons of fun with your mixed media supplies!

Sending Blessings and Creative Vibes Your Way!

-Briana of OrangeSpiralArts.com

 

Birthday Sale on Online Classes-Express Yourself Creatively Today

Greetings Folks!

Thank you so much for visiting Orange Spiral Arts.

It's almost my birthday, so I decided to offer up my online classes at a heck of a bargain.

All of my online classes are on sale for $45 USD or less! 

Simply click on the class title to be taken to the information and registration page.

Liquid Watercolor Mandalas $150 to $45 (save $105)

Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Ink Art $75 to $45 (save $30)

The Beautiful BEing Program $225 to $45 (save $180)

Mixed Media Paint Scraping $65 to $45 (save $20)

Collage Paper Pies $55 to $45 (save $10)

Winter 2017 Online Class Set-Ink and Oil Pastel, Magazine Mixed Media Collages, and Abstract Watercolor Patterns $50 to $45 (save $5)

Vision Board E-Course $37

Benefits of Orange Spiral Arts online classes

• work at your own pace and at a time of day/night that suits you
• revisit videos and content as often as you'd like (play, pause, play, pause)
• personal support via email (limits noted in each class)
• loosen up creatively
• gain confidence in expressing yourself through art and/or writing
• enjoy the moment
• play and feel a sense of freedom
• relax, reduce stress, and breathe easier
• feel inspired, grounded, and connected (mind-body-spirit)
• feel good about supporting a woman-owned and operated small business
• be entertained while learning a new art technique

Thank you so much for being here.

I appreciate your support and encouragement to keep on keepin' on!

Sending Blessings,

Briana

MN Visual Journal Collective-October 2019-Special Guest Brenda Hudson

Greetings, Everyone!

Welcome to Orange Spiral Arts! Thank you for visiting.

Today's post is about the October 2019 MN Visual Journal Collective meeting held at Wet Paint, in St. Paul, MN.

We had a special guest this month, thanks to co-facilitator TJ Goerlitz (pictured below in deep writing mode). Also pictured is LisaMarie (LMNOP). 

Brenda Hudson of Voiced Life  led us through some unique writing prompts as we looked at photos brought from home, or on our phone.

You may click the link below to access the Captured Moments prompts by Brenda Hudson. (Thank you, Brenda for your generosity in sharing these).

Download Captured Moments promptsbyBrendaHudson 

After we wrote, we each had time to visually create something related to the writing that occurred. 

Brenda has a brand new book out called, Story by Story: 15 Projects to Write Your Family Legacy. I believe the prompts came from this book.

Photo Credit: TJ Goerlitz

After we all had a chance to write and illustrate, we had a chance to share.

I love sharing time. We not only get to see and hear from the wonderful participants of the MN Visual Journal Collective, but we also get to feel less alone.

Seeing each other's art and hearing one another's life stories, even if in a tiny snap shot, joins us together in the human experience.

Thank you to everyone who made it out to the October MN Visual Journal Collective meeting! And thank you again to Brenda Hudson for being our special guest!

November's MN Visual Journal Collective meeting is the annual supply swap. This will be on Monday, November 18, 6pm-8pm at Wet Paint.

Please be sure to sign up through Wet Paint's Events if are able to attend.

An email reminder will be sent out to those in the MN Visual Journal Collective Google Group, and we'll post a reminder to the MN Visual Journal Collective Facebook group.

Also, since we have limited space, please be conscientious about how much you bring for the swap. It should be able to fit at your spot in front of you, or on your lap. The swap is a really fun meeting. As TJ Goerlitz described it, the supply swap is sort of like a rummage sale and a white elephant gift party had a baby. (I probably got this wrong, but you get the idea!) In other words, one person's trash is another person's treasure! So bring your used or gently used supplies that no longer spark joy. Someone will likely be happy to take them off of your hands.

NOTE: ANYTHING NOT CHOSEN DURING THE NOVEMBER SUPPLY SWAP WILL NEED TO RETURN HOME WITH YOU. You can always put it in a bag and donate it to Art Scraps in St. Paul, MN, or your local thrift store.

UPCOMING CLASSES AT WET PAINT WITH BRIANA

Tuesday, November 12, 5:30pm-7:30pm-Intro to Abstract Alcohol Inks; fee $56 (includes alcohol ink kit and Yupo paper)

Sunday, November 17, 1pm-4pm-Liquid Watercolor Mandalas; fee $48

ONLINE CLASSES WITH BRIANA (these classes go above and beyond what I have time to share in the in-person workshops)

Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Ink Art (unlimited access; fee $50)

Liquid Watercolor Mandalas (unlimited access, mind-body-spirit approach, 20+ videos; fee $150)

 

In Gratitude,

Briana

Getting Started with Visual Journaling-Class at Wet Paint in October 2019 (3 Wednesdays, starting October 9)

“Our creativity-that is, our fearless engagement with the world around us- is the source of our happiness and purpose on this planet.” –Peter Himmelman, Let Me Out: Unlock Your Creative Mind and Bring Your Ideas to Life

 

Dear Creative Ones,

 

I’d like to invite you into the wonderful world of visual journaling. This is a world where anything goes; there is no right or wrong way to express yourself in your journal. My style is not going to be your style, and that is the beauty of sitting with others who are also engaging in the process of keeping a visual journal. You are unique, and your own artistic style will show up. You don’t even have to think of yourself as an artist; you are born a creative being.

 

In my upcoming class at Wet Paint, Getting Started with Visual Journaling, I have a few goals. The first goal is to help you overcome your fears of the blank page. The second goal is to have you feel seen, heard, and loved while you are in class. The third goal is to have fun playing around with various mixed media supplies, so that we may breathe a little easier, let go of the stress we carry, and just be present to the moment.

 

I will be guiding you through creating initial backgrounds, adding to those backgrounds, as well as doing some low stress drawing and journaling exercises.

 

This experience is for you, and I want you to see yourself reflected in your visual journal.

I have been keeping visual journals for over twenty years. Some of my journals have tons of writing, and other journals are explorations into various art materials. The journals that mean the most are the ones where I’ve included bits and pieces of my life. Those bits and pieces could be photographs, ephemera from the day, or a deep writing session.

We are all on a journey, and a visual journal is your companion along the way. Whether you are in a place of healing physical or emotional pain, in some sort of transition, or riding life’s waves with ease, we all need a safe space to express ourselves. That’s what a visual journal is for me. When I am present to the creative process, I connect to something greater. To illustrate this, one woman at a recent MN Visual Journal Collective meeting said when referring to her journal, “It’s time I start working on a better relationship with myself.” That resonated with so many others in the room. Can you relate, too?

 

Gather your supplies, begin to open your heart, and let’s create together.

Register for Getting Started with Visual Journaling here: http://info.wetpaintart.com/index.php/event/getting-started-visual-journaling-taught-by-briana-goetzen/

 

 

“Without dreams, without risks, only a trivial semblance of living can be achieved.” –Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Finding Flow

 

May we all go about our days with a greater sense of aliveness.

May it be so.

 

Sending Blessings to you,

Briana

 

Artist’s bio

 

Briana Goetzen, MA of Orange Spiral Arts is an expressive arts coach, artist, writer, photographer, and teacher. With a background in Elementary Education and Human Development, Briana brings gentleness, a sense of calm, and a never-ending enthusiasm for the arts wherever she goes. Briana’s art teaching philosophy is “process over product,” and her personal mission is to inspire your creative spirit.

www.OrangeSpiralArts.com

Briana is offering a variety of classes at Wet Paint in 2019 for children, youth, and adults. Please look at the Wet Paint site for upcoming Events and registration information. Thank you! I am ever-grateful for your interest and support.