OK, so on a totally non-art related note...

I have been searching around for a new event to participate in this summer.  As some of you may know, I've participated in the Oxfam Trailwalker for the past two years: 100kms/48hrs/team of 4.  What an incredible experience, but I wanted something a little less taxing, time-wise this year (the training and fundraising efforts for the Oxfam event are a bit over-the-top) since I'm working, in school full time and in placement part time.  My cup runneth over, as they say. 

Anyhoo, I came across this event and just had to laugh...it's right up my alley!  It's not offered in Canada right now, but a girl can hope.  I was scared just watching...

After finally finishing up this painting this morning, I am officilaly dispelling the myth that you can't have your cake and eat it, too.

For soooooo long now, I've been approached by students asking the eternal question, "Tombow or Copic?".  I have loved them both for some time now, so I can't in good conscience choose one over the other, however, never would I recommend they be used together...until now.  I've felt (as I'm sure many of you do) that each class of marker carries its own merits, and of course flaws (although, I can't think of any off-hand :D), but that the two marker brands are so vastly different to their very core, with the exception that they are both ...

Well, continuing on with my work for the show at the end of March, I'm working on a new piece right now, hoping to finish it tomorrow.  I wanted to post it at the half way point, though, just to give you an idea of the process.

The technique I'm using here is the same multi-media approach I used on Bird Face and Ella two posts ago (Tombow watercolour, Copic, Multi-liner, etc.).   The difference is that in this case, I sketched in my drawing lightly with pencil and then went straight to my Tombow watercolouring and Copic marker, adding the details with Multi-liner AFTER the colour is done, so there is no solid outline, only some darker lines and details where I felt they were needed.  ...

I've just posted the course outlines for classes I'll be offering at Heather's Stamping Haven from May 31, 2012 to June 4, 2012.  Check-ch-check-ch-check it ooooooouuuut.  Samples coming as soon as the new stamps are in my hot little paws. 

 Alrighty, so...

I've been working away at some new pieces for my show at the end of March and so, I sat down on Friday and decided just to have some fun play time with my artwork.  No pressure, just me, all my paint, markers, inks, brushes and a load of panels.

I thought about painting a few things that are meaningful to me...I selected Bird Face, the foster dog I cared for last year who simply stole my heart, and Ella Fitgerald, my musical inspiration.  I sketched, I inked (with Copic Multi-liner) and then I used my Tombow markers to create some watercolour effects, then I used my Copics to create a secondary layer of colour, then more Tombow watercolour, then more Multi-liner inking, then some splashes of ...

Well, before I launch into the art blogging that I'm raring to do today, I have to send out some BIG LOVE!

My girls and I went out on the town for some kibble last night and I had the best dining experience I've had in a very long time, if not ever.  We decided on Vietnamese restaurant, Tamarine on Dundas Street in London. 

http://www.tamarine.ca/

The service was incredible.  The host opened the front door for us as we approached the restaurant and seated us promptly.  We were a party of eight and the accomodations at the table were perfect for the size of group we were.  The ambiance, decor, lighting and table settings were incredibly warm and inviting ...

Well, I'm dreaming about summer today, after that wintery blast we just got over the week-end.  So, I've decided to finally get down to business on a custom painting that's been on my to-do list.

This is called Beach Path, and it is strikingly similar to the beach paths near my house.  It's mixed media on canvas and measures 36" x 48".  I can almost feel the warm breeze and hear the waves lapping...almost.