Christmas Cards

So its the holiday season and my favorite time of year.  So, a few years back I was watching a ted talk ( www.ted.com get into it) and this lady spoke about how each year she sent out personalized hand made valentine day cards to hundreds of people.  I thought would a great idea.  So for the last couple years I have been doing that, well not hundreds of people more like ten.  I have set a few rules for myself so it doesn't become too fancy or complex.  One they have to be able to fitmail in the regular mail, two they have to be different every year and lastly be based on some kind of Christmas symbol.  This years symbol was the Christmas bell, that idea was a bit too complex so I had to change it up, so it end up being something else.   Of course, I can't post it yet its not done lol.  When I get the time I will upload pictures of the last two years.  I know this does not deal directly with my artist journey, but I have been finding out through my reading/research that to be an artist one has to be open to many things to find your own "finger print"  so to speak.  This "dibbling and dabbling" in different arts will help me hone in on who I am as an artist and will help open me up creatively.  In addition, this type of dibbling and dabbling in other areas not specifically dealing with what I normally do will give me ideas I would not normally ever engage in.  Try it you maybe challenged.  There is still plenty for me to do before this weeks out and before my cards are finished.  I leave you with this one thought that I figured out not to long ago, art is ALL around us and if we have the eyes to see it than we can create ANYTHING out of literally nothing.   Below is the link to the video... even if you aren't inspired by my little journey there is something for everyone at ted if nothing check the video out. Happy Turkey Day!!! GOBBLE GOBBLE

http://www.ted.com/talks/marian_bantjes_intricate_beauty_by_design.html

In the beginning....

So a several months back I assumed I would be in the Art Institute of Philadelphia.  I was obviously mistaken, I knew that I would be able to get up the funds to go and that any money lacking i could get from the family that i was so close to.  After being told no enough to crush my pride I had a 6hr emotional breakdown.  Someone tried to feed me because they know food makes me happy but no earthly substance could make me feel better.  But like the phoenix I have a  problem dying  I was reborn with a radical idea… well a crazy idea.  I thought "Rodel (yes talking to myself) you have taught your self everything you know to this point why not just teach yourself the tools and techniques to be the artist you desire to be. "  I had already felt stupid for thinking of abandoning science but here was an even more ludicrous idea teach myself the abnormal amount  of information to break into the world of animation.  It would be cheaper but I was not a professional.  I was and still convinced that I will commit spiritual suicide  if i do not at least try.  So here I am months later with abnormal about of sources of information and a "class" schedule that mimics a real full time art program that will span a three year period based on the Art Institute I could not afford to go to.  In three years I expect to go into a studio and at the least get an internship.  I know crazy but iIfigure what do I have to lose but my sanity.  NO RERETS… and when I think I have given it my all I will lay down my pencil until than i am going HARD IN THE PAINT… literally.

Chaos