Monday, July 21, 2014

Feather Studies


I love to explore a wide variety of art media and processes. From altered arts to bookmaking, collage, encaustic art, embroidery, textile art, origami, mixed-media - you name it, I've probably given it a whirl! No matter where my artful adventures may lead me however, I've discovered that a few motifs nearly always make their appearance in my work. Feathers are definitely one of my favorite elements to include! Their delicate beauty, graceful lines, and colorful variety make them a favorite detail for collage or mixed-media art.


I created the handmade sketchbook shown here as a special place to gather my favorite feather images, so that I can practice drawing and painting them. The book includes a variety of pockets, papers, and tags, that allow to me experiment with sketching and painting while documenting the various pens, pencils, markers, or paints that I use. It's a fun reference tool that I can refer to again and again!



For my Feather Studies book, I printed out some beautiful images from The Graphics Fairy to serve as inspiration. Her website has 1,000s of images that are copyright free, and cover a huge variety of topics. Do you have a favorite motif that runs throughout your artwork? If so, I would love to hear about it! You  might find it useful to dedicate a sketchbook that you purchase, or one you make yourself to that favorite element and use it to document your artful adventures.
Until next time: Make art...be happy!
Kimberly


5 comments:

  1. How fun! Someone just asked me recently if feathers are "In". I'm going to tell her about your awesome book!
    xxDaniella

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  2. Thanks Daniella! As far as I'm concerned feathers are always in!

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  3. Great job, Kim! I know how you love to use feathers and birds in your work!

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  4. I have been looking around for ideas for using handmade journals and watercolor books....my focus has been on making journals, but my mind is now wandering to what to fill them with. I love this feather post. Thank you for sharing.

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