Orange Spiral Arts

March 2020 MN Visual Journal Collective Meeting Summary-Stitching in Your Journal with Molly Anthony

Greetings Everyone!

The March 16, 2020 MN Visual Journal Collective meeting was not in person this month, due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, Molly Anthony of The Found Art Walk and Briana of Orange Spiral Arts, showed up to Wet Paint to record a Facebook Live. This was a first for us. We got some help from Chris at Wet Paint, too. Thank you, Chris! 

The video is saved in the MN Visual Journal Collective Facebook group for members to watch, in case you missed the Live session, or if you want to watch it again for ideas and inspiration.

Molly did such a fantastic job preparing for the meeting. She is an amazing writer and human, who is going through a family crisis at the moment, and still showed up to present and share her incredible journals. Art is a balm for the soul. Molly knows this first hand, as I am sure many of you do, as well.

If you are not a member of the MN Visual Journal Collective, or if you'd like to read about our meeting, this blog post is for you. It's a summary of what Molly shared on the topic of stitching in your journal.

I tried my best to take notes, while also moderating comments on the Facebook Live video stream.

First let me share some photos of Molly's art and some book resources with you.

Artwork and journals by Molly Anthony (above)

Stitching resource book suggestions by Molly Anthony

Next, I would like to share some of the main points from Molly's talk about stitching.

What to Use

• discarded fabric, old clothes, quilts or quilt pieces, vintage fabric, lace, flower sacks, dryer sheets, dried tea bags

(Find these at thrift stores, Art Scraps in St. Paul, MN, your own attic or family members' stash, or ask friends to collect fabrics for you)

• embroidery floss, thread, cotton spools

• various needles
• seam ripper
• fabric strips and small scraps, ribbon, lace, etc.
• TRY EVERYTHING-You never know what you'll like! (Wise advice from Molly)

Next, here are some more photos of Molly's incredible journals, plus a few ideas to try.

IDEA to try: Bind a book of fabric pieces (like cotton and muslin) into an old hardcover book. Use this book as your place to practice your stitches.

Idea to try: Make paper and fabric collages on tags. Stitch and/or glue random bits to the tags, too.

Idea to try: Make your own little fabric books for fabric collage and stitching.

Molly's Mindset About Stitching 

"Go at it and see what happens."

Let it be random and just play.

Do what works best for you.

Use stitching as a way to add mark making.

Add details to your page with stitches.

You don't have to fill the page with a stitch.

Draw with images; stitch an image onto your page.

Stitching is a slooooooooow process; it calms the mind in a way that collage didn't for Molly. It gives her a sense of peace.

Stitching is also different from collage because you can see where you started and where you've been by looking at the back of your stitched piece.

---------------

There are many ways to learn how to do various stitches. 

YouTube is a great resource. Here's how to stitch a French knot that Molly mentions.

Another great online resource is CreativeBug.

How to Put a Collage Together by Molly Anthony

Choose Your Materials

Choose some fabric that feels good to you, ie feels soft.

Choose a piece of paper collage that has meaning or that you like.

Choose a piece of ribbon or a smaller piece of fabric.

Choose a word, such as "hope" that you'll stamp onto your piece.

Glue Sticks and Stitches-Finishing a Piece

You can pin things into place, or simply move them around until you are ready to add glue and stitches.

1. Decide on the thread you'll use. The thread can be a contrasting color or a matching color.
2. Layer the fabric and paper pieces you've chosen.
3. Do some "seed stitches".
4. Apply glue stick to the back of the paper you will add on top of the fabric layer.
5. TIP: Use a thimble when doing your stitches. Needles are sharp!
6. Add some stitches, perhaps some French knots (see video above) to the fabric and paper collage.
7. Stamp a word with StazOn ink directly onto a piece of fabric and adhere or stitch to your collage.

-----------

Here are some stills from the Facebook Live of Molly sharing her work:

We will end this post just as Molly ended the Facebook Live by sharing a little hope with us and the rest of the world.

We are sending lots of love out to you all. May you stay safe and well during this difficult time in our world.

May you find solace in stitching or some other form of creative expression. Art, music, dance, theater, storytelling, writing, photography-we need all of it right now!

Thank you to all of the people who work in the medical field, with the elderly, with children, or anyone who does work that brightens our living experience.

Sending Peace and Blessings,

Briana and Molly

PS As teaching artists, our work has been canceled or postponed right now. If you can help support Molly and Briana by purchasing some of our online offerings, we'd greatly appreciate it! Thank you in advance if you are able to help. Also, be sure to buy your books and supplies and/or gift cards from local small businesses like Wet Paint when you can! It matters for their survival! Thank you!

You and your creativity matter.-Briana of Orange Spiral Arts

 

 

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

 

Fresh Paint Art Show and Online Art Sale Begins Today (Nov. 18)

The Fresh Paint Art Show and Online Art Sale is here.

View Briana's (aka Orange Spiral Arts) art here. I have 10 pieces listed for sale on Instagram.

You are welcome to send me an email or send the $50 USD payment via PayPal to my PayPal email address, which is orangespiralarts(at)gmail(dot)com.
I will then contact you about the cost of shipping based on your location. Please include the title of the art piece, so we are on the same page.

Students from around the world took an online class this year with Flora Bowley and Lynzee Lynx. The course is called Fresh Paint. We explored many avenues of creating artwork on square paper, and now we are having an online art show and sale! All art is priced at $50 USD + shipping. Make an artist's day by leaving a kind, encouraging comment, and/or purchasing some art!

Top Reasons to Buy Art from Someone

1. You brighten someone's day, which truly makes a difference.
2. You support someone's dreams.
3. It's fun to get snail mail.
4. The art speaks to you and/or brings you a sense of joy/peace/happiness/inspiration, etc.
5. The world needs more creativity!

Thank you so much for stopping by the virtual show! We appreciate you! 
You can search the hashtag #freshpaintcourseshow on Instagram. Be sure to look at the Top and Recent tabs to view all work in the show, if using a smart phone.

Thank you so much for having a look at the Fresh Paint Art Show and Sale.

If you are interested in signing up for the next round of Fresh Paint, I am happy to share my affiliate link. Thanks in advance, as this also helps support me as an artist.

I hope you have a wonderful day!

With Gratitude,
Briana 

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

Upcoming Art Classes at Wet Paint, St. Paul, MN

Greetings Everyone!

I am offering several classes at Wet Paint this October, November, and December 2019.

Here's what's happening and when:

Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Inks, Fee $56 (includes generous kit of alcohol inks + Yupo)

Saturday, October 19, 10am-12pm

same class is also being offered on 

Tuesday, November 12, 5:30pm-7:30pm

and a family class for ages 11+ is being offered on

Sunday, December 29, 3pm-5pm

Call Wet Paint at 651-698-6431 to register, or click on Events from the Wet Paint site and search by month and date.

Liquid Watercolor Mandalas, Fee $48

Sunday, November 17, 1pm-4pm

I have an online class called Liquid Watercolor Mandalas, which goes in greater depth than I can cover in the three hour class at Wet Paint. So, if you are not local to the Twin Cities, or if you love expressive mandala art as much as I do, I highly recommend that you check out my online class, Liquid Watercolor Mandalas. This is my signature course that includes helping people have a greater sense of peace and calm, while integrating the mind, body, spirit connection through mandala art.

Thank you for being here and for taking a look at my fall teaching schedule.

I also have several additional online classes available, which you can view under the LEARN tab from OrangeSpiralArts.com

The online version of Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Ink Art goes into more detail than the two-hour class at Wet Paint. It is also a handy resource that you can return to after class.

I received a moving testimonial from a student recently who took the online Introduction to Abstract Alcohol Ink Art class.

Here's what she said:

"Briana, I want to thank you for introducing me to alcohol ink. It has been enlightening, motivating and given me the inspiration and courage to move forward with my art. You have literally changed my life."

I am so pleased to help someone find their creative voice again.

May you, too, give yourself permission to play and create and enjoy life!

Sending Blessings and Gratitude,

Briana

Liquid Watercolor Mandalas Online Class

Greetings to you! 

I am thrilled to share that one of my signature classes, Liquid Watercolor Mandalas is now being offered online.

Benefits to you

I am so excited because I have seen the benefits students have received over the last 4 years of teaching this workshop in person.

Liquid Watercolor Mandalas offers a process that helps to put you in a meditative state, while thoroughly enjoying the moment.

The benefits of meditation include:

• your heart rate will slow
• your breathing will become easier
• you will relax in mind, body, and spirit
• solutions to problems seemingly come from nowhere
• feel more grounded, centered, and clear 

Additional benefits former students have reported:

• loosen up creatively
• increased positive self-talk
• learn to let go and trust the creative process 

What you will learn

• a variety of approaches to creating liquid watercolor and mixed media mandalas
• all about liquid watercolor and where to purchase it, including Colorations brand, Ecoline brand, and Dr. Ph. Martin's Radiant Concentrated Watercolor
• how different sized brushes can be used for different effects
• how to source inspiration from nature, textiles, art, jewelry, food, and human made objects
• how to combine 2-3 different art supplies in one mandala to create a unique look and design
• how to keep a mandala journal as a creative practice that will add meaning and understanding to your life
• an inside out approach to creating mandalas, which often comes with benefits of healing emotional pain

IMPORTANT NOTE: I am not a therapist or a doctor. I recommend that you have professional support ready before exploring areas of trauma or abuse, or additional issues you may be going through that require professional help.

I do have a master's degree in Human Development. In my program, I studied creativity, spirituality, and healing. I went into my graduate program with the question, "How can people heal from emotional pain?" 

I have also since become a certified facilitator for the curriculum called, "Renewing Life through the Expressive Arts."

Educating myself and learning how to serve others on their life journey is something I care deeply about.

Teaching workshops that combine my background as an early childhood educator, where the children are so free in their art making process, and my formal training in Human Development, where I focused on adults, is the sweet spot which makes me unique as your guide. I also have been making art and writing in journals for most of my life. My goal when creating is not to about the end-result, but about the process that occurs while the creative work is happening.

What you will receive

• detailed supply list
• resource list, including recommended books and online classes by other instructors
• a mini mandala (original art by me) in the mail as a thank you gift
• videos, lots of them, sharing the various approaches to creating liquid watercolor mandalas and a few mixed media mandalas
• a simple breathing technique to help you relax, feel calm, and empowered
• tons of inspiration via photos I have taken over the years of nature, textiles, etc. that can all be used as references while creating your mandalas
• information about liquid watercolor-from children's paint to professional grade ink

Pricing Structure

I have decided to use a unique pricing structure that will allow a variety of people, with varying income levels to have access to this course.

On the first day of registration, the cost will be only $35. The price will increase each day, over 5 days, with the maximum price at $150.

Day 1 = $35 (Sept. 24th and 25th only)

Day 2 = $45

Day 3 = $55

Day 4 = $75

Day 5 = $150

Registration opens on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 and reaches the maximum price on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019.

Supply Tip

If you know you are going to sign up for this course, the most affordable source of liquid watercolor is from Discount School Supply (which I have used for 15 years). If it is in your means, I suggest getting the set of 18 colors, 8 oz. bottles. There is also a set of 6, 4 oz. bottles, at a great price.

There are many papers at a great value as well, such as this one, this one, and this one. I will most frequently be using 140 lb. watercolor paper by Canson.

For paint containers you could use one of the following:

Artist's Loft Plastic Paint Cups-set of 12

Masterson Air-tight paint cups-package of 20

Watercolor Paint Jar set with 6 jars-2 oz.

 

Final details and FAQs

Class begins on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 and runs for at least 3 weeks.

Registration confirmation will come through via your email 24-48 hours after payment is received.

Content is delivered via a password protected site that is for registered participants only.

Share your work on Instagram with the hashtag #liquidwatercolormandalas

Class Outline and Plan

Session 1

• Introduction-What is a mandala? (written)
• What is expressive art? (written)
• Supplies (written, images and links for easy shopping)
• Loosening up with liquid watercolor (video)
• Making color charts of various liquid watercolor brands (video)
• Basic watercolor techniques demo (video)
• Setting intentions (written)
• Setting up your space and supplies (written and photos)
• Creating your first liquid watercolor mandala(s)
• Crayon resist mandala (video)
• Resources (written and linked in online classroom) 

Session 2

• Breathing technique (video and written)
• Mandala art and journaling as a creative practice (video-journal flip-through)
• Journaling prompts (written)
• "Art show" of Briana's liquid watercolor mandalas (video and photos)
• Mandala technique-rays and doodles (video and photo example)
• Gathering inspiration from the world around you (written and photos)
• Structured mandalas vs. free-form (written and photos)
• Using a compass and/or circle template (video)
• Concentric circles mandala (video)
• Finding your symbols exercise (written)
• Symbol at center mandala (video)

Session 3

• Moving beyond the circle mandala (video and photo examples)
• Nature inspired mandala (video and photo example)
• Q-tip as tool mandala (video)
• Blown paint mandala (video)
• Mixed media mandala (video)
• Using photos for reference and inspiration (written and photos)
• Mandala painting using Ecoline watercolors (video)
• Mandala painting using Dr. Ph. Martin's Radiant Watercolors (video)
• There may also be extra bonuses, like printable art, or additional videos.

 

Sign Up

Are you ready to say yes to more calm, more full body relaxation, more clarity, as well as joy in your life?

Sign up today!

Policy Note: No Refunds

IMPORTANT: BE SURE YOUR PAYPAL EMAIL ADDRESS IS CURRENT. THIS IS HOW I WILL SEND YOU YOUR REGISTRATION AND ONLINE CLASSROOM ACCESS.

              $150

Thank you so much for your interest and support. You and your creativity matter!

I am so looking forward to this online version of Liquid Watercolor Mandalas.

If you are local to the Twin Cities, you can also take the in-person Liquid Watercolor Mandalas workshop at Wet Paint on Sunday, November 17, 1pm-4pm.