Make me an Instrument of Peace

I am horrified at what has been unleashed in America as a result of this election. Hatred, bigotry, nonacceptance and marginalization appears to have been reinforced; it is openly showing it's ugly face again in so many parts of the country. 

In the numbness of despair, what I can do is to fight for justice and acceptance; to do all I can to make sure those hard fought for freedoms are protected for all Americans, and all humankind.  

God help us all. 

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. 

Where there is hatred, let me sow love; 

where there is injury, pardon; 

where there is doubt, faith; 

where there is despair, hope; 

where there is darkness, light; 

where there is sadness, joy.

St. Francis of Assisi 

Art Every Day - Nov 8 - Falling Leaves

We have been working in the yard this unseasonably warm afternoon, and the variety of leaves on the ground inspired me to spend some time this afternoon doing an easy and relaxing art project - fall leaf rubbings. With windows and doors open, I might add. (A rarity in November in NW Washington state) 

I used Caran D'Ache Neocolor II Crayons, rubbed the backs of the leaves on 65 lb cover weight paper, and used my water brush to meld the colors. They need more work, but this is the start. 

Check out these weeping beech leaves. Listening to them rustling in the breeze can reduce stress, much the same as ocean waves at the shore. Most of these guys hang on until the new leaves begin to bud out in the spring. They'll turn a deep brown, and hang on. 

The perfect thing to relax on this election day. We'll hang on and all shall be well. 

Art Every Day - Nov 6 Teabag Found Poetry

 Playing around with teabag art... as in using a "used" teabag to create some type of something upon.  This is not what I thought would happen, but it was a fun learning experience. 

I stamped the image on the teabag, and added the found poetry cut from an old book page. 

I placed a textured paper towel (with paint from a gelliplate off print) cut (mostly) to size, to add texture and interest. Then I applied beeswax, using my mini iron, to meld together. 

It didn't quite work as I thought it would, but I still kinda like it. I'll play around with this a bit more. Stay tuned.... 

Art Every Day - Nov 5 Golden Ginkgo

Sharing a photo today of a stand of Ginkgo trees, discovered near our grocery store. They've been there for some time, and I just noticed them because of their brilliant yellow leaves and the fact that they were still attached after our recent winds! 

Aren't they gorgeous? 

Art Every Day - Nov 4 Hummingbird

Hummingbird - Watercolor pencil and pen sketch. 

It's too stiff, I obviously need more practice, which I intend to get this month. :)

 

Also sharing with Paint Party Friday