Lucy's Artitude

Precious Metal Clay

2011-11-30T21:19:00.001+11:00

A few weeks ago, Bevlea, Glenda & I travelled to Healesville to have a lesson in using PMC. We went to The Whimsical Bead, run by Dani.
She has the most fabulous studio, sigh.......(jealousy here!)
Anyway, Dani is a great teacher & we all ended up making a pair of earrings & some little hearts to use on a bracelet.
So, now I know PMC is not too difficult to use, if a tad expensive.
Let me know what you think.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

ANOTHER ALTERED BOOK

2011-11-09T13:39:00.000+11:00

Following Bevlea & I doing an Altered Book a while ago, I decided I wanted to make another.

So, I found an old book, ripped out the pages and added a lovely Murano glass writing pen I bought in Venice

Painted the outside & inside.
Constructed shelves etc to make the innards.

Added lots of 'stuff' I had collected on my travels & VOILA, here it is!!!

Let me know what you think.

ETCHED METAL BOOK

2011-10-18T19:18:00.000+11:00

Today I finished an etched metal covered book that I started AGES ago!
Armed with information & guidance from Jan Harris & Bevlea, I finally know how to bind a book, YEAH!!

I added lots of beads etc to the binding & I LOVE it!
Had problems photographing this, but eventually put it inside an old gramophone horn & it is now presentable. The last one I made, I gave to my friend Barb, but, methinks I may keep this for moi!!

Posted using BlogPress from my IPad.

WEEKEND CONTINUES......

2011-10-17T20:04:00.001+11:00

Second day with Jan saw us exploring with wax. Now, I have never had any luck with wax before, but, except creating a massive mess, but, once again, Jan makes it so easy.
She has endless ways to use wax, even setting it on fire,to blend the wax & colours.
Here is my effort.

Not the greatest pic, but, I had fun & judging by the marvellous art from everyone, I know they learnt so much & had fun too!
I do hope I get to see Jan again, such a lovely person!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

FAB WEEKEND......

2011-10-17T19:56:00.001+11:00

A few weeks ago, I attended 2 classes with Jan Harris from the USA.
Jan is a fabulous instructor, with a wealth of knowledge.
Her quiet demeanor immediately makes you feel comfortable, no pressure and raring to learn.
The first day was making two journals. Jan provided the most wonderful supplies, including paper to die for.

Here are mine....

I am so proud, even learnt how to stitch them together properly!!
Please let me know what you think.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

ANOTHER FUN LONG WEEKEND!

2011-09-20T20:13:00.001+10:00

On Friday Bevlea & I together with Bevleas doggie, Maggie, headed off to Ocean Grove for another long weekend of art, sightseeing, photo opportunities, talking, laughing,eating, drinking etc. etc......
Ocean Grove is a lovely little seaside town, with great coastal views.
Bevlea got some great photos. The one below was taken at Barwon Heads surf beach where there were so many of these amazing kite surfers.

One of them saw Bevlea with all her photo gear and really played up for the camera, rolling, maneuvering, dipping up & down, waving, smiling etc, such a show off!! They were a sight to behold though, free as a bird!

Bevlea took heaps of photos, even made me drive up a very bumpy single lane road to take photos of Canola fields!
Amidst all the sightseeing, lattes, shopping & click click click of Bevleas camera, we did make some art.

This is a name plate for my desk, in Steampunk style.
I really like the way mine turned out, even my DH was impressed!
All in another wonderful get away, can't wait till the next one!
-Posted using BlogPress from my IPad

GOODIES!!!!

2011-08-12T10:16:00.000+10:00

I found an an Australian online store: www.scrap matrix.com
They have some great goodies, really good prices, so placed an order on Tuesday.
As I live in Melbourne, thought I may get delivery in 7 plus days.
To my delight it arrived Thursday. No affiliation, just a really good Australian, with delicious goodies & great prices!
Here's a pic of my loot!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

OUR BOY OTIS!

2011-07-19T12:58:00.002+10:00

Here is a pic of our boy Otis. He is 3 years old, cheeky, adorable, funny and the light of our lives!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

"COLLECTIONS" PRINTERS TRAY

2011-07-13T16:40:00.000+10:00

After Bevlea & I went to Queenscliff we did a workshop with Julie from 'Collections".
She has bought out this small Printers Tray & it is so cute.
We worked on this for about 4 hours & each person who attended at Scraptivate took home a finished tray.
Isn't it lovely??

ANOTHER ARTY TRIP

2011-05-25T17:48:00.000+10:00

After our last long weekend away to Lakes Entrance,
Bevlea & I decided that this should happen more often.

So, this time we headed off on Friday to beautiful Queenscliff.

This is one of my favourite places to visit.

Lots to see & do, loads of beautiful buildings, wonderful

shopping & food.
We booked into a little cottage, was clean & comfy,
but reminiscent of great Grandmas house!!
We cranked up the heating & started to Art!!
First we made a Fork In The Road journal. Have to say

that the instructions were a tad difficult, but, after lots

of procrastination, we sorted it out.

Mine will have more stuff added soon, lots of 'bits & pieces' I kept from my Europe trip.
It has a fold out book on the left side & the box with all the Countries opens up!!

Saturday morning we went to the Queensliff Day Spa for a one hour massage.
I was so scared doing this as I had a rotten experience with a massage when I went to Thailand.
This was totally different, so soothing, so relaxing(I'm sure Bevlea nodded off a few times!)
We took the ferry to Sorrento, spent time looking at the shops etc, & had a lovely lunch.
We then worked on our next project which was a Configuration box by Tim Holtz.
I took the 'dark' road, and just love the way it turned out.

The days went too fast, and on Monday we drove home via Barwon Heads for brunch,. We stopped along the way for Bevlea to take photos(what else!) and now we can't wait for our September trip to Ocean Grove!!

LATEST JEWELLERY

2011-04-30T16:26:00.000+10:00

I have been experimenting with some new
jewellery.
From left to right:
Made the bezel myself & added a lovely cast angel
along with some mica powders to give it some colour.
Second is a tin type photo covered with dimensional
magic, a brass 'thingie' & a chandelier piece with the word 'ART' behind it.
Third is my interpretation of one of Stephanie Lees
creation from her book, a 'Bundled Silk Pin'.
Fourth is my own featuring a 2 birds and nest on a branch with a few extras on the chain.
Last is a bezel I made myself with some French paper, an Eiffel Tower & a few little silver roses.
What do you think??

ETCHED METAL BOOK

2011-04-27T14:42:00.000+10:00

Last week, Bevlea, Glenda, Caro(no blog) & I got together at Caros to make an etched metal book.
Bevlea had stamped the metal with the Tim Holtz Book stamp & then we etched. Amazing this time with no spills!!
We then made plaster pages for the book, making a lot of mess along the way.
Last week Bevlea & I got together to assemble ours, but, immediately ran into trouble with the plaster pages, so ditched them, and decided to use art paper instead, using coptic stitching.
Then we added some bits & bobs to the side & 'VOILA' a new book!
I am thrilled with the result, though, I may have gone a tad overboard with the decorations!!!!
May use the book as a small journal to record our exploits, when Bevlea & I head off for another long arty weekend at Queenscliff!!

WAGGA WAGGA CREATION

2011-04-05T08:19:00.000+10:00

A month or so ago, Bevlea & I ventured up to the lovely town of Wagga Wagga
to see our dear friend Barb.
We had a wonderful time, albeit brief,
did lots of talking, some shopping, more talking, eating,
more talking, drinking, more talking & some art.
We all worked on making a canvas each & we all
contributed to one for Glenda, who couldn't make the trip.
The time in Wagga Wagga was too short, hoping
next time we can stay longer.
Here is my result, let me know what you think.

A NEW NECKLACE

2011-04-01T14:25:00.002+11:00

A few weeks ago Bevlea & I got together to make a necklace.

We had purchased the gorgeous bezel from Jen Crossleys Website.
We cut paper to fill it, of course, mine is Paris themed, Bevleas was themed The Royal Progress!

We were going to fill it with Ice Resin, but, that plan fell through,
so we used Dimensional Magic & some Crackle.
We fiddled & fluffed around, adding chandelier crystals, the lovely sinker
is also from Jens shop & the little chairs that I had bought.
I call them "The Queens Thrones"!!
This is in honour of The Queen of Arts Retreat in 2012.
I am really proud of this necklace, it has hardly left my neck !!

LAKES ENTRANCE & BEYOND

2011-03-11T14:08:00.000+11:00

Last month Bevlea & I took a 3 night break to Lakes Entrance. Looking forward to good weather we took off down the highway with high hopes.
Stopped at Officer for a coffee when it started to rain.
We got back in the car & it rained, no it was not just rain, it was a DELUGE all the way to Lakes.
Went to the Bairnsdale cemetery so we could take a pic of my husbands parents grave, as he has not been back to the area since his beautiful Dad passed away 9 years ago.
We booked in to our cabin, had a look around the town & settled in for an arty/sightseeing time.
I don't think I have ever laughed, relaxed, drank so much in a long time.
We did make some art, but, didn't pack enough supplies(something we have under control for our next get away).
We started a canvas, put some texture paste on it, then realized we had no heat gun to dry it.
Well, this didn't stop us, Bevlea put on our little stove/grill and CAREFULLY we 'baked' both canvas's. Mine is pictured here.
We went on a cruise to beautiful Metung where we had lunch. The lakes system is huge & the bird life was AMAZING.
Never seen soooo many black swans, pelicans, etc. etc.
Of course Bevlea took heaps of photos. We also went to the Buchan caves. We did the tour of The Fairy Cave', amazing, though not good if you have a bad back, legs etc. as it was hard going!
I did all the driving, but, every few k's, Bevlea would say 'stop the car!', which I did, and she would jump out and photograph stuff, like old houses, fallen down old sheds,etc even stopped to photograph 3 cows! I mean to say, has the girl never seen a cow before!!(I will NEVER understand photographers!)
All in all, a fabulous break and can't wait till the next one to Queenscliff.

IT TOOK.............

2011-02-17T14:54:00.000+11:00

It took this

to make these!!

Usually I am a neat & tidy person, but, my standards are slipping.
I rarely make ATCs, but, decided to make one for the Paperarts Yahoo group WTA monthly draw.
I can't believe I made so much mess, but, at least I have a few made in advance!!!
Now, off to clean the studio!!!!!!!!!!!!

LAST TAGS & ENVELOPES

2011-02-10T10:40:00.003+11:00

These are my last 3 Tags & Envelopes for the swap on Arty Oz Yahoo Group.

The first is for Greta, who wanted Collections products with cream, sepia. brown, black & turquoise.

The second is for Donna who wanted Birds/Bird Houses with rustic & egg shell blue tones.

The last is for Genevieve who wanted Flourishes in

Tim Holtz distress inks colours.

ARTY OZ CHRISTMAS 1-4-1 SWAP

2011-01-10T16:17:00.000+11:00

We had a Christmas 1 4 1 swap on Arty Oz Yahoo group, and this is what I made for Greta.
The first is using mostly Collections products in a shadow box I made myself, with a little bit of difficulty as measuring is not my speciality.

The second is an etched metal pendant which I included in case she didn't like my Collection box.

A BEAUTIFUL GIFT

2010-12-20T16:39:00.002+11:00

It was my birthday recently

& my beautiful friend Bevlea

made me a beautiful gift.

I love the soft colours,

the lovely pic of the little girl,

and of course, the image of

the magnificent Eiffel Tower

THANK YOU BEVLEA!!

2010-12-15T15:45:00.001+11:00

TAG & ENVELOPE SWAP
I have finished some more tags & envelopes for the Arty Oz swap.
The first is for Joanne whose chose the theme 'Alice in Wonderland"

The second is for Gail who just wanted "Vintage'"

The third is for Kaeren who wanted "Shabby Chic"

The last is for Nicky who wanted "Birds, Green, Forest". I found this the hardest as green is my least favourite colour.

PLAY DAY

2010-11-25T12:14:00.002+11:00

A few weeks ago, Bevlea, Glenda, Caro and I had a Play Day.

We had a free 'E' Cloth, Paper Scissors book & decided we would make the house project.

Started off cutting board, adding papers then Bevlea sewed them together. Added the roof & a button to hold the house together. Enjoyed the process & the laughs!!!

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL GIFT!!!!!

2010-11-11T16:35:00.000+11:00

This morning, OTIS, "THE POSTIE HATING WONDER DOG", alerted me to the mail.
Went out to get it & along with a few bills was a small padded bag.
Now, I didn't think I had ordered anything online, but, thought maybe I had forgotten a purchase(an easy thing to do as one ages!).
Then, I saw the return addy & realized it was from Sarah Fawcett (Saimba).
I opened it and inside was the most gorgeous little hand made book.
Looking through the little key hole on the front I could see 'Alice" & inside all the pages are "Alice in Wonderland" themed.
Also wrapped around the book were some Alice themed charms, tea pot, cup & saucer, clock, rabbit etc.
Then, I read Sarahs card...............
She sent this to me because I am always so nice about her creations & she wanted me to know that she really apprciates my comments.

Well Sarah, it is easy to positively comment on your art because you are highly talented with a beautiful spirit.
A woman with a gift for art & a gentle soul.

THANK YOU Sarah, I will treasure this gift forever!!
Hugs Lucy

MORE TAGS & ENVELOPES

2010-11-10T09:42:00.001+11:00

MORE TAGS & ENVELOPES
Am into the swing of this tag & envelope swap on Arty Oz Group!
This one is for Micky whose theme was 'Industrial, Green & Rustic"
I used lots of cogs, some steampunk images, an old tape measure & some great paint provided by my friend Bevlea.

The one below is for Ruth whose theme 'Tones of brown with some chipboard pieces, overall theme 'elegant'.

At the moment this is missing in transit thanks to Australia Post, hopefully it will make its destination sooner rather than later!

LOOK AT THIS!!!

2010-10-22T13:41:00.000+11:00

I have long admired & lusted over Sarah Fawcetts art & have waited patiently till she decided to open her own Etsy store.

Well, she did a few days ago & I rushed in & bought this beautiful birdcage Pendant.

It arrived today packaged so sweetly that I was ALMOST afraid to disturb the wrappings, but, I DID!!!

I LOVE this piece of jewellery art, don't think I will be taking it off for a looooong time.

Thank you Sarah!!

NEW SWAP

2010-10-19T15:49:00.001+11:00

I am involved in a 'tag & envelope' swap on Arty Oz .

We are to decorate an envelope & tag for each person.

This one is for Bevlea, whose theme is 'Cream, White & Sepia with famous quotes.

The next one is for Vanessa whose theme is Vintage fabric. I used fabric & also old lace doilies.

Only 10 more to go!

2010-09-25T17:01:00.000+10:00

Got together yesterday with Bevlea & Eva to have some fun & make some art.
Bevlea & I had bought a kit from Maxine's Melange a little while ago & decided it was time to put it all together.
Eva worked on a gorgeous Advent Calendar project for her Grandaughter.
The kit was relatively easy to put together with great instrctions from Maxine, but, there were so many steps we didn't get to finish it.
I decided while the Grand Final was on & my team wasn't involved, I would finish mine & I DID!!!
I love how it has turned out. Let me know what you think.

WINGS & THINGS

2010-09-13T16:08:00.003+10:00

Three "Art Queens", myself, Bevlea, Glenda, & I got together last Friday for some 'arting'. Unfortunately our other 'Queen',Caro, could not make it.

We had all purchased a few kits at Paperific & firstly we decided to make up an angel kit from Collections.

Looked easy, there were a few glitches, but, we all finished & liked the results.

We also planned to make up a shadow box kit from Scrapware, but, after lunch we just chatted & chatted and decided to make up the kit at home & show & tell about it next time we meet.

I have to say that I did not find this very easy, but, that could proably be because there were lots of little pieces(I don't like small!) and lots of paint & glue.
But, I did manage to finish it & l really like it.
Will have to see what my fellow 'Art Queens' think of the finished product next time we meet.

2010-09-11T13:23:00.000+10:00

SPOOKY REVERSED CANVAS
I am involved in a 'Spooky Reversed Canvas' swap on Paperarts Yahoo Group.
I used images from Itkupilli and lots of Golden Micaceous Iron Oxide paint, some cobwebs, tombstone, spiders, ants & a great bat to create mine.
Really looking forward to what I receive & hope that whoever receives mine likes it.
Let me know what you think.

INSPIRED

2010-08-19T13:32:00.000+10:00

Inspired by Annette & Sarah, but, with a LOT more to learn, Bevlea, Caro, Glenda & I got together to try & make a cuff.
We etched & etched, laughed & laughed & etched some more. Scrubbed the metal, laughed, ate, scrubbed , laughed some more & decided we would finish up at a later date.
I have been looking at mine for a few weeks & finally decided to finish it off, good or bad.
Sadly, am not up to the high standards of Annette & Sarah, but, am at least pleased that it is finished.
Will see if one of my grand daughters would like to wear it.

RINGS & THINGS

2010-08-05T17:32:00.000+10:00

Got out my Ice Resin yesterday.
Thought I should use it, as it has a shelf life of 12 months.
Made one bezel & inserted a pic of my great grandaughter Asya, put some bits & pieces in 2 blank rings & a bezel that I bought last week at the Craft Fair & here they are.

Tin Type photos and....

2010-08-01T16:38:00.000+10:00

I had some old tin type photos & decided to make some pendants with them.
Also had an old watch, added some wings & 'voila' new jewellery!

2010-07-28T09:31:00.000+10:00

JUNQUE JOURNAL WORKSHOP

Early Saturday morning Bevlea & I headed out for the drive to Ro Bruhn's lovely, ecelectic home in the Dandenongs to do her 'Junk Journal' workshop.

Met some new artists & reconnected with some I hadn't seen for a while.

I didn't realise how large this journal is, must really learn metrics!

We made the covers and used stencils & masks & lots of paint to create lovely texture.

When I came home, I decided to change the colours, now I have a lovely rich reddish cover.

We painted, stamped, collaged etc our way through the day, adding lots of 'junky' paper to make the internal pages.

Note to myself, must save more junk, including, flyers, menus etc. etc. etc...

A few days later, I decided to rummage through my collection of buttons & sewed them to the spine.

Lots more to do with this journal, as it will be an ongoing project & one that I will treasure.

Thanks to Ro & her lovely husband for the day, great company, great food, great fun, great food, lots of laughs, great food, lots of ideas and, did I mention, great food!!

JEWELLERY DAY

2010-07-17T09:11:00.000+10:00

The three Art Queens, Bevlea, Glenda & myself got together to do another project.
When we arrived at Bevleas home we found that Queen Bevlea had taken a tumble in the bathroom & was sporting a lage 'egg' on her head. But, being the brave Art Queen that she is, she battled on.
We decided to go on further with making projects from Stephanie Lees book.
We used pieces we had already etched & made a necklace & then also, because we had time, made a pair of dangly ear rings.
Love all the creations.
We all had fun , a lovely lunch & lots of laughs.
Wonder what we will do next?

MORE JOURNAL PAGES

2010-07-08T13:27:00.001+10:00

I have been inspired lately to work on some more pages for my AFFIRMATIONS JOURNAL.
Here is the first: JOY.

Now EMOTIONS

And LIGHT.

And STILLNESS.

Just couldn't stop myself using a gorgeous pic of my first Great Grand daughter Asya.

COLLABORATIVE BOOK SWAP

2010-07-03T10:18:00.000+10:00

I joined in the collaborative book swap on Arty Oz Yahoo group.
I had to make 12 pages & use old book pages somewhere on the page.
Mine was constructed using old book pages as the base, a schoolgirl image from Paper Whimsy & then I printed out a bike & an old school gate pic on 2 separate transparencies. I also added some typewriter discs with dimensional magic on them to create some texture.

I am really looking forward to seeing everyone elses work, as I love a collaborative book where you can see the different styles & techniques others use.

ENAMELLING

2010-07-01T17:06:00.002+10:00

Went to an enamelling workshop at Evas on Monday. The teacher, Erica, teaches at the school where Eva works.

Also there were Bevlea, Glenda, Jen, Sarah & Deb Moss.

Only a few were burnt in the 800 degree kiln.

Had a lot of fun, lots of laughs, lovely food &

some great results.

THE BIG 60!!

2010-06-29T13:38:00.001+10:00

My fellow Art Queen Glenda turned the BIG 60 recently.
I decided to make her a silly little present, because once you hit the 60's you can be as silly as you want!
So, I found a papier mache 'G' and painted, stamped & decorated it with a few funny & silly images from Land Of Nod Studios.
Gave it to Glenda yesterday & she had a giggle.
She especially liked the words on the top(hidden in photo) that read: "This is just the beginning'!

SARDINES!!

2010-06-24T07:46:00.000+10:00

On Paperarts Yahoo Group, we had an 'altered sardine tin' swap.
I love altering 'stuff', but, found this one a tad difficult.
I HATE sardines, I HATE the smell of sardines, etc. etc.!!LOLOL
But, for 'the sake of art', I managed to complete my task.
I decided on a Steampunk theme and rusted my tin with paint, added a Steampunk image, some old cheescloth, cogs & bits 'n bobs and an old rusty cupboard handle that I had found at Camberwell market.

2010-06-17T12:16:00.000+10:00

Bevlea, Glenda & I got together on Monday to make more backgrounds for our Affirmation Journal.
I ditched the torn paper technique used previously & used paints, stamps & napkins.
My affirmation for this finished page is: ALLOWANCE.:Allow yourself to be who & how you are. Allowance is the well worn, worthwhile path to Peace.
After a lot of trepidation re making a journal, I am now really 'into it' and am looking forward to our next 'arty day'.

LOOK AT THIS!!!!!!

2010-06-15T13:18:00.000+10:00

Yesterday I received this wonderful ATC from my friend Ellah.
Ellah is Bevlea's great niece and she is my friend.
Isn't this a beautiful ATC?
I have to tell you that Ellah is only 6 years old!!
Obviously she has inherited her talents from Bevlea!!

JOURNAL UPDATE

2010-06-11T11:37:00.000+10:00

Bevlea, Glenda & I are making an art journal.
We are just at the very start and, I really have no idea what I am doing!!LOLOL
But, getting together to work on our pages is a FUN way of making art & having a great time.
I have made my first page, titled "FLEXIBILITY"
We are using 'affirmation' cards to determine what the subject will be for each page.
Not sure if I like it, but, I love the image of the fat lady, appropriately named "Lady Bulldog Burton"!

PINK!!!!

2010-06-01T16:01:00.001+10:00

Pink is a colour I never use, but in honour of the birth of my first Great Grand Daughter, Asya, I decorated a carriage & a canvas for her room.
The carriage will have pictures in the windows and I hope my grand daughter & her husband will like it.

Thoroughly enjoyed the process decorating these, BUT, I may NEVER use pink again!!!

THE BEGINNINGS OF.....

2010-05-28T16:32:00.000+10:00

Last week Bevlea, Glenda & I got together to start a journal.
We have wanted to do journalling for quite a while & so we decided to make our pages first.
We all just slapped around paint, stamps, moon glows, stencils etc etc... to form the backgrounds.
Bevleas & Glendas look great, mine, on the other hand, look like a 'dogs breakfast'!!

But, I will keep trying, adding to what I have already done and hopefully some words of wisdom!!
Stay tuned!

CSR TWINCHIES

2010-05-19T16:38:00.000+10:00

At CSR this year we had a 'Twinchie' swap. The subject was 'All things Leonardo Da Vinci'.

I love all the different little pieces of art, so I glued them to a canvas, and have hung it in my studio, so I can gaze at them whenever I want.

Thank You to all who contributed.

AND....

2010-05-19T16:29:00.002+10:00

Bevlea & I got together and did some soldering.

We cut some brass & soldered some copper rings cut from some pipe onto the brass.
Now, getting these looking 'just right' is hard work, but lots of fun.

Another day we made some different bezels.
My DH cut & scored them for us, then Bevlea & I folded, and folded, and folded, and managed to make them look somewhat OK.
Then, the soldering began again.
Lots of issues, way too much solder, then trying to burn it of, which was really comical, with solder running everywhere.
A few minor burns, them my torch started shooting out large FLAMES! Managed to turn it off, and have since had it replaced, but, it was a tad SCARY, but so much FUN!!!

ARTY HAPPENINGS

2010-05-19T16:05:00.000+10:00

Lots of arty happenings this last month.

Eva, Bevlea & I did some etching at Eva's house.

Eva did all the stamping because she is so PERFECT.

While the metal was simmering away in the solution, we took off to the Dandenongs & did some browsing & ended up at the famouse Miss Marple Tea house.
YUMMY!!!

STEAMPUNK(sort of!)

2010-05-01T16:47:00.000+10:00

I LOVE STEAMPUNK!

But, I am not very good at it.
I have been working on this piece for a little while, on & off.
I THNK I am happy with it, would love to know what others think.

SHELTER FROM THE STORM

2010-04-25T12:47:00.001+10:00

At the Creative Soul Retreat I met a lovely fellow artist who cheered me up when I was down.
This person, who shall remain nameless at the moment, probably doesn't even know the effect she had on me.
So, I made this canvas using paint & stencils, tiny little (pretend) bird eggs & some coconut fibre for a nest.
This piece will be winging its way to its new owner tomorrow.
I hope she likes it.

House Bezel

2010-04-06T13:00:00.002+10:00

One of my favourite blogs to visit is 'A Mark In Time', featuring the amazing work by the very talented Jen Crossley.
A little while ago, I saw her wonderul bezels & thought, maybe I could make one.
Well, after lots of cutting, measuring(not my strong point!), soldering, glueing, 'Iceing" etc. I made a little house bezel.
I am really pleased with the result & got Jens permission to post a pic, after I confessed to her that I had stolen her idea.
Jen was very supportive,as is her wonderful nature.
Jen is the only Australian authorized agent for the wonderful 'Ice Resin', which is easy to work with & dries so completely clear, it looks like glass.
So, here it is. Let me know what you think.

A RECORD: 3RD POST IN ONE DAY!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-02T14:45:00.001+11:00

A few months ago I made some bezels with the help of Elizabeth aka Queen of Toys.
They turned out to be realively easy to make.
I filled them with some watch bits, a picture of my sisters doggy Mimmie, who recently passed away & some little metal eggs, which Margaret had shown us a few weeks before this when she came to Melbourne for a short break.
I filled them with Ice Resin(LOVE THIS STUFF!) and think they turned out OK.

ARTY DAY

2010-04-02T14:13:00.000+11:00

After the Creative Soul Retreat, Bevlea (the Retreat Mastermind), Eva & I got together to talk over the retreat & to make some art.
Bevlea had purchased some unusual bezels from Susan lenart Kazmer. We played around with images, transparencies, glitter & doo dads & eventually filled them with the wonderful ICE RESIN, available in Australia through Jen Crossley who is the Sole Authorized Australian distributor.
This Ice Resin is great. Dries so clear it looks like glass.

Here is my effort.

CREATIVE SOUL RETREAT 2010

2010-04-02T12:18:00.001+11:00

Creative Soul Retreat is over and the entire event was WONDERFUL!!!

The tutors, Jan Harris, Laurie Mika & Susan Lenart Kazmer all bought their own magic & expertise to impart to the students.
Susan & Laurie bought along their wonderful sisters, Leslie & Cherie,who were a delight.
Also teaching were Judy Wilkenfeld, Ro Bruhn, Jen Crossley & Kelsey O'Mullane.
I managed to do 3 classes & had a ball!

Judy taught her class 'Just in Case'. We made a bound book using a method I have never tried before & the results were great!
She talked us through her own book & the symbolism of the stories attached to each page.
The class listened intently &, I have to say, I shed a few tears.

I haven't done much work on it yet, as I have yet to decide the subject.

Then I did an evening class on making a stamp,with the delightul Ro Bruhn. I have NEVER tried this before, but, with Ro's gentle manner & easy going nature, it was a breeze! Thanks Ro.

This is a picture of my first ever stamp!

I know it looks messy, but it WORKS!!!

The I did a day long class with the effervescent Laurie Mika.
Believe me, it is hard work conditioning the clay! This was a class full of fun. Laurie is so patient especially with a clutz like me!
The results were fab, loved every minute of it!

All the feedback from the other classes was so positive.
Bevlea & Eva, you did a great job!
Bringing International tutors to this far away land of Australia is a feat in itself, but the results speak for themselves.
ROLL ON 2011!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"ALICE CHALLENGE"

2010-02-17T16:22:00.000+11:00

This year on Paperarts Yahoo Group we are having a "Alice In Wonderland & Through The Looking Glass" Challenge.
This month it was 'The Red Queen" theme.
I chose a pic of Helen Bonham Carter as the Red Queen. Love the clothes, make up, especially the lips!
I decided to use a frame I got from Wednesday Wishes & some good old alfoil to make it look like a looking glass.
The background is peeled paper technique.
Let me know what you think of it.

GOTHIC ARCHES SWAP

2010-02-15T16:29:00.000+11:00

On the Yahoo Group Papertraders I am involved in a 'Gothic Arches' swap. The theme is 'Renaissance Women". Along with the arches, you had to include a charm. The charms will be added to the spine when the book is finished with covers etc.
My charms are etched metal with a few beads.
I'm really looking forward to seeing the returns.

Twinchies, Twinchies, Twinchies..........................

2010-02-15T16:15:00.000+11:00

For the Creative Soul Retreat this year at The Country Place in Kalorma we are doing a 'Leonardo Da Twinchie' swap.
Twinches are very small, only 2 inches square, and the subject is 'all things Leonardo Da Vinci'.
We have to make 25.
Elizabeth & I decided to get together to make ours.
We had a 'trying' day, but, were rapt that we got them finished.
These will be the first & last lot of twinchies I will ever make, MUCH too small for moi!!

ANOTHER JEWELLERY PROJECT

2010-01-20T17:04:00.000+11:00

Last week, 3 FLs got together to make another of Stephanie Lees projects, Bundled Silk Pin.

Bevlea & I had a few problems bending the metal, luckily for us, Elizabeth was the 'Bending & Banging Queen' of the day, saving us the ignomy of a warped creation.
Thank you Elizabeth!

THE WINNERS ARE......................................................

2010-01-19T08:34:00.000+11:00

Thanks to everyone for leaving such lovely comments, it is so nice to get some feedback.

I put all the numbers in Random Org & the winners are:
Number 23: MARION BOCKLEMAN
&
Number 5: TERESA.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Email me with your pick (though looks like Marion wants the birdy).
& address & I will post them asap.

NEW JEWELLERY & A GIVE AWAY

2010-01-11T14:35:00.000+11:00

Pictured are 4 more pieces of jewellery I made using etched metal.
Love the etching!
I would like to give away 2 pieces.
All you have to do is leave a comment(good or bad) and on January 18th, I will draw 2 names using Random org.
Then, I will post the winners names on my blog & they can contact me with their choice.
TTYS Lucy

SPOOKY ANCESTORS BOOK

2009-12-08T13:35:00.000+11:00

I have finished my 'Spooky Ancestors Book'.
This was a swap done on Paperarts Yahoo Group using images from the talented Itkupilli.
There were 12 involved & we had to make the same number of images. I find it hard repeating, so I made 2 of 12 different pages, so I ended up with a very fat book!
Below is the Slideshow I made of the book.
I'm loving it!

Slideshow

2009-12-08T13:29:00.002+11:00

NEW JEWELLERY

2009-12-08T13:25:00.000+11:00

Just finished these 2 pieces.
Can't believe that I am loving making jewellery, must be the great teachers I have learnt from, Ro Bruhn & Jen Crossley.
The 3FLs & 1 are exploring more jewellery techniques.
At the moment we are goinf through Stephanie Lees book 'Semiprecious Salvage".

Whatcha looking at?

2009-12-08T12:44:00.001+11:00

Otis wants to know where is summer?

He hates the cold & his owner hates the rain, because this means muddy paw prints through the house!
At least he has his blankie to keep him warm!

ETCHINGS

2009-11-26T13:53:00.002+11:00

Yesterday, buoyed by my experience with Ro Bruhn, I decided to do something with the etchings I had made previously.

So, I set to, made a few wire nests, sorted through my stash & voila!!, here are my efforts.
Sorry, not great pics, the metal & camera flash just don't seem to work.

JEWELLERY DAY!!

2009-11-24T10:16:00.001+11:00

Saturday saw Bevlea, Christine T & myself head off to Ro Bruhn's lovely home in the Dandenongs for a jewellery workshop.
We left home in plenty of time, BUT, construction work on the Westgate Freeway led us to go 'round & round' in circles till the Sat Nav finally got us back on track.
Ro is such an easy going person, not phased at all by our tardiness.
She made this experience a breeze.
Lots of encouraging words, help whenever you need it and a calm attitude made this a great experience.
Of course this was helped by the ambience of her home & surrounds & the beautiful food provided by her husband Steve. I really wanted to take him home with me, but, alas that was not to be!!LOLOL
I am so pleased with my necklace, have had it on constantly since.
Ro also teaches journal making, hand made paper & stamps etc....... She is a DELIGHT.

CRISTMAS SWAP

2009-11-24T09:56:00.000+11:00

I have just finished my offerings for a '12 days of Christmas' swap on a Yahoo group.
We had to make 12 gifts, wrap them up & add our number(I am 11).
They will be distributed out & each day for the 12 days before Christmas each member gets to open a gift.
I am number 11, so mine will be opened on the 23rd of December.
I can't post pics of my gifts till after they are opened, but, mine are all different, my brain just does not like making multiples of the same!!
I'm looking forward to seeing what the other girls have made, should be FUN!

ANOTHER FAIRY

2009-11-02T10:41:00.000+11:00

After I made the fairy reverse canvas (see in a previous post), I decided that maybe she really needed to stay with me.
So, I made another. I needed to step out of my comfort zone, and use colours that I rarely do.
So, this one is made using green as the predominant colour.
I used Golden Glass Bead Gel over the outside of the frame and then sprayed lightly with silver to give it a sparkle.
The nest is from my favourite 'E' store, Wednesday Wishes. It is so tiny, but, just perfect for this project.

FINISHED!!!!!!

2009-10-31T15:38:00.001+11:00

Along with Elizabeth, Bevlea & Glenda( 3 Fat Ladies & 1), we have been getting together & creating a book to honour our familes, heritage etc.
We used Jen Crossleys lovely frames for the foundation of each page.
We cut, pasted, talked and sometimes swore our way through this challenge.
Numerous coffees, teas, food etc were consumed along the way.
The back of the book is a reliquary honouring my late Dad.
I am so thrilled with the results!!
Even though most of my family just doesn't 'get it' in relation to my art, my aim is to show this to them on Christmas day, when we are all together.
I'm hoping they will understand it & like it for what it is.
I will always remember the great times I have had in the creation process with my beautiful, funny, irreverent friends.
Below is the slideshow, let me know what you think, OK?

2009-10-31T15:24:00.003+11:00

FAIRY CANVAS

2009-10-18T14:08:00.000+11:00

Now Fairies are not really 'my thing', but I decided to join in a 'reverse fairy canvas' swap on Paperarts Yahoo Group. I made this one for me, because I had purchased these little gates a long time ago, loved them, but, never had the chance to use them.

The decorations on top & the wings were made with great moulds I purchased from my favourite E Store, Wednesday Wishes.

I like the result, let me know what you think.

JUNK OR TREASURE?

2009-10-11T18:05:00.000+11:00

DH & I went to the Camberwell Market today.
Weather started off cool, then turned into a lovely sunny day.
I spent about $20 on these treasures, old folding ruler, 2 old tobacco/cigarette tins, old mini spirit level, some old metal 'things' old glass chandelier bits,tiny old padloock & my favourite, a cork topped glass vial of Hansens Junket Tablets!!
Love all my treasures, though DH thinks its just junk!

FINISHED & BOUND

2009-10-01T14:14:00.000+10:00

Finally, my 'Medieval, Gothic, Religious' City Scapes project is finished.
A departure from my usual 'Vintage' style, but, I am loving the change of direction in my arty attempts.
Slideshow below.

CITY SCAPES BOOK

2009-10-01T14:01:00.003+10:00

SPOOKY ANCESTORS

2009-09-23T13:18:00.007+10:00

I joined in a swap on Paperarts Yahoo Group called SPOOKY ANCESTORS. We had to create 12 pages using ITKUPILLI images. I love these collage sheets, they are so much fun!The pages are 6" X 4" and when finished we will bind our own into a very SPOOKY family album.

I decided to make all my pages different, as I struggle trying to make so many pages all the same. I'm really looking forward to getting all the swapped pages back.

Below is a Slideshow I made of all my pages. Let me know what you think.

SPOOKY SLIDESHOW

2009-09-23T13:16:00.002+10:00

ART CHALLENGE

2009-09-08T13:59:00.007+10:00

I have done the challenge set by Barb & Bevlea on their blog 2cre8art.

This is an easy peasy way to create something with alcohol inks.
I made a card & an ATC.

I like the results, because I like anything that is relatively easy!!
Thanks Bevlea & Barb.

COLLECTIONS LITTLE BOX SWAP

2009-09-01T15:34:00.005+10:00

I am involved in a Collections Box Swap on artyoz.
When I signed up, I didn't know that the boxes were really small, and I don't like small!! Anyway, I have finished mine & it is on its way to Nikki.

I received these two little beauties from Gail. Aren't they great, I especially love the teeny tiny bottle. Thanks Gail.

New 'E' store!!

2009-08-31T12:41:00.006+10:00

Two great Australian girls, Maxine & Audrey have opened up a brand new 'E' store called Wednesday Wishes. I have placed my first order & am eagerly waiting my goodies.

They have a great selection of Creative Kits, art moulds, die cuts & much more. Go take a look!

DARK ART

2009-08-27T20:01:00.005+10:00

Made this today, quite a departure fom my usual style. I do however like the darkness of this piece. I think it apt that I try something different.

Let me know what you think.

ANOTHER RAK

2009-08-26T17:18:00.008+10:00

Just finished making this piece, using Collections products, paints, Impasto Medium, masks etc.

It will be in the post tomorrow, travelling a loooooooong way away to someone who has been rather ill lately, but, who is slowly on the mend.

Hopefully, she(who shall remain a secret), will like it.

VALE OLIVIA

2009-08-18T16:29:00.003+10:00

Today, our darling, nearly 16 year old doggie, Olivia, went to doggy heaven.

I cannot write in words how much we love her. So, farewell our beautiful girl.

We will always love you.

WINGS

2009-08-09T10:11:00.006+10:00

I love Collections Products & when the new 'stuff' was released, I bought heaps.
Mostly, I hoard, but, I decided it was about time to start creating.

I have been browsing a few blogs & saw some amazing art, then, last week, I went to 'The Scrapbook Scene' here in Melbourne and saw a great little piece of art made by the owner Janet.

So,using her art for inspiration, I made this piece. The back is a Collections transparency, as is the frame, the dress form & wings. I painted the frame & the dress form with Goldens Micaceous Iron Oxide, then rubbed over it with some silver lustre rub ons. I painted the wings with some silver paint, then stamped over everything & embossed.

I really like this, now, to give it to a special friend of mine!

ANOTHER TWO PAGES.

2009-08-07T16:11:00.006+10:00

Here are 2 more pages from the City scapes book.
Not great scans.(Reminder to myself:"Need a new printer/scanner!") Doesn't really show the transparency background on the first one, but, it's OK.

2009-08-07T14:47:00.001+10:00

City Scapes Book Update

2009-08-07T14:37:00.005+10:00

Have nearly finished my City Scapes Book in the Gothic, Mediaeval, Religious theme, so alien to me at first.
I had some help with words from Bevlea, and, found that once I got 'into' the theme, it came along really easy.
Would love some comments!

I HAVE BEEN CHALLENGED.

2009-08-07T08:47:00.006+10:00

I have been challenged by Barb.
I have to go to the 4th folder in my photos & upload the fourth photo to my blog.
So the pic here is an ATC I made for a swap on Paperarts Yahoo group.
The photo is a picture of my Dad, Neville, when he was in his early twenties.
My father died nearly 30 years ago & I don't have many pictures of him at all, so I treasure this photo.
The last words say it all!
The next part of the challenge is to pass it on to four other bloggers.
So here goes:
Elizabeth:http://thequeenoftoys.blogspot.com/
Glenda:http://glendasgazette.blogspot.com/
Eva:http://postscriptvoyages.blogspot.com/
& Jen:http://www.amarkintime.blogspot.com/
Lets see if these bloggers take up the challenge.

NEW PROJECT

2009-07-20T19:37:00.006+10:00

Together with my friends Bevlea, Elizabeth and Glenda we have been getting together some Mondays and working on a project.
Last week we started on a City Scapes book, each doing different themes.
I decided on something totally different to what I usually create, doing a sort of Gothic religious theme.
I am having problems with this, but, after Bevlea & I spoke on the phone this morning, she dared both of us to do 2 pages & post them to our blogs by the end of the day.
I am not totally happy with my pages, may add something more, may not.

Katie Scarlett

2009-07-07T18:15:00.002+10:00

Can Katie Scarlett contact me please.
I read your comment on my blog & would be happy to send you the image you like, just don't have an email address for you.

DELICIOUS JEWELLERY!!!

2009-07-06T13:27:00.005+10:00

Yesterday Bevlea, Eva & I headed up to chilly Ballarat, where the famed Wendouree lake is DRY, to take a class with the amazingly talented Jenn Crossley.
I have lusted after this great vintage style necklace with tin type photo for a long time.
We all had a great time, lots of talking, yummy food & we learnt so much from Jenn, who is an ever so patient teacher.
I LOVE my necklace!!!

Cards, Cards, Cards!!!

2009-07-06T13:08:00.005+10:00

A few weeks ago I went to my first ever Stamp Camp run by Monika from Beachouse Boulevard.
I went with Bevlea and had a lovely time.
Met up with some old friends & made some new ones too.
Rachel Greig was out tutor & I made some cards!! Exciting for me, 'cos I have only ever made 2 before.
I find it tedious to measure stuff!!
Anyway, I made 6 cards, pictured here, and had a lovely relaxing weekend.

Arty Day

2009-06-05T11:04:00.004+10:00

A few weeks ago I had a great Arty Day with Bevlea & Elizabeth.
We have been working our way through Kelly Rae Robets book, Taking Flight.
We made the journal, complete with 6 pages and covers. Really enjoyed the day, but, have to thank Bevlea for painting my face in, as I absolutely hate painting faces!

2009-06-05T11:02:00.000+10:00

My Steampunk Attempt

2009-06-05T10:50:00.003+10:00

After seeing the great Steampunk art by Ramona Szczerba in May/Junes Somerset Studio, I was really curious to see if I could come up with something.
I really couldn't think of anything original, so follwed the artists lead and this is what I created.
I don't think I fully understand the concept of Steampunk, but, would love to try some more.

THANK YOU

2009-05-11T08:21:00.001+10:00

Thank you to those who posted comments on my last post.
Its always gratifying to receive feedback, good or not so good.
Hugs Lucy

LITTLE HOUSES

2009-05-07T08:54:00.004+10:00

At the CREATIVE SOUL RETREAT we had a "Little Houses" swap.
I, of course, didn't make the correct amount(must remember to read all the messages!), but received some wonderful little works of art.
I have been pondering how to display so many. Thought I would paint a naive type painting to display them, but, didn't know how to go about it.
Lunching with Bevlea & Eva, I discussed my plans. Bevlea said she had seen a you tube video by an artist named Karyn Gartel that might be appropriate.
So, sfter seeing her video, I decided to try my own little village scene.
I have to say that I am NO painter, but, decided to give it a go.
I am reasonably pleased with the result, though bright colours are not really my style.
Of course I showed my DH, who wanted to know why the houses were crooked!
I put him straight that to sit on the hills they couldn't be completely upright.
He thinks I'm crazy(which is probably correct!), but he thought my idea was OK.
Any comments, positive or negative, would be appreciated.

MINI GIVE AWAY!!!!!

2009-04-28T11:50:00.002+10:00

I have been reading Annes blog for a long time, drooling over her wonderful art!
Well, she is having a mini give away of her beautiful little bottles, ending Wednesday evening (French time).
So, hop on over to her blog & enter.
You will see all her great art, but, hopefully, the give away will be winging its way to MY home soon!!
Lucy

3rd in a row!!

2009-04-27T09:36:00.004+10:00

Yay, 3rd post in a row!!
During the Creative Soul retreat, I hosted Bernie Berlin in my home.
Bernie is such a sweetie, working to save dogs & cats from death & also slaving away tirelessly to close down those abhorent puppy mills.

I did a class with Bernie making resist backgrounds.
My first efforts were abyssmal, but, I persisted, using a differnt stamp pad & the results are really great.

I really loved Bernies class "Secrets of the Burnt & Bound", but didn't get to take it, so, again Eliza gave Bevlea & I a lesson.
Normally, I am not 'into' dark, but, absolutely love the results.
I have to say that LOTS of glue was used here, I'm still trying to clean it off my hands!!

New 'DJ' type journal

2009-04-27T09:10:00.004+10:00

At the wonderful Creative Soul Retreat, DJ Pettit taught her journal class.
Unfortunately, I was too busy helping Bevlea to attend.
So a few weeks ago, Bevlea & I went to Eliza's home where she taught us how to make the complete journal.
Making the covers was really interesting, using lots of masks, gel medium, netting etc. etc.
Then after drying, we painted & painted, the results are just great!!
Eliza helped with the sewing of the pages & I just love the results.
I want to thank Eliza from the bottom of my heart for imparting her knowledge from the class & allowing us the use of her home,coffee, paints, coffee, gels, coffee
etc. etc. etc.
Let me know what you think.

I'm here!

2009-04-27T09:01:00.003+10:00

I have been very slack posting to my blog, but, decided I would upload some pics of some altered spoons I have done for a swap.
My original idea for this swap went out the window when I couldn't solder properly, and time was fast approaching when I had to come up with some results.
So, used some alcohol inks, pics and beads.
I'm rather pleased with the results, hope the recipient likes them!

Retreat is over!

2009-03-22T19:43:00.004+11:00

The long awaited, highly anticipated & most wonderful Creative Soul Retreat is finished.
I had the most enjoyable, exhilerating & exhausting time of my life.
Bevlea ran the retreat very professionally with Eva & myself as her willing helpers.
Our tutors, DJ Pettit, Stephanie Lee and Bernie Berlin were all AMAZING!!
I was lucky to have Bernie stay at my home and it was a pleasure as she is so easy going & loves doggies(like me). Also, spent time after the retreat with all 3 tutors and they are just so down to earth.
I didn't get a lot of art done at the retreat, but, managed to do a DJ Pettit inspired collage with fabric(alien to me).
Now, its less than 12 months till the next retreat!!!!

Another challenge.

2009-01-21T12:15:00.007+11:00

On a very hot Monday, Bevlea, Glenda, Elizabeth & I got together to work on another challenge from Kelly Rae Roberts Book, "Taking Flight".
Armed with watercolour paper, paints, pens, coffee, food & under the expert guidance of Bevlea, we all emerged with really great results.
I am calling mine, "Wings Around The World"
We all chose different papers for the backgrounds. I decided on a brown theme. I must remember next time, to decided where I am going to paint my figure & don't put paper joins there!
That being said, I really like the result, and painting faces is something I no longer want to run away from screaming blue murder!