Advent and Christmas

This is the season to be busy, right? Well I have been busy but not with Christmas but with  decluttering. I moved last February from 1200 square feet to 700 square feet so I am parting with at least half of my belongings. This is a slow process especially since I had a large room full of fabric in my last place. 

I did take breaks from decluttering by making some items for my new Etsy shop called Art By The Sea Studio. First was this whimsical tree inspired by artist Jane Font.I painted six of them and attached them to red card stock to make Christmas cards.

I also wanted to paint a Nativity scene. I had enjoyed painting the angel with a palatte knife so much I decided to try a Nativity in that style. I tried it first in my art journal. I am glad I did because I didn't have room for Joseph on the first try.

When I am not happy with a painting I have to step back for a day or two and look at it later with fresh eyes. I took a break and made ATC (artist trading cards) with the Advent Angel on them for my prayer/covenant group. These were to small to use the palette knife so I used a small brush and heavy body paint. I made three extra just because I am adicted to making them for some reason. 

Then last minute Christmas sales picked up in my Etsy quilt shop so I didn't get in my painting time for a few days. When I was able to get back to my paints I did another Nativity with Joseph included this time and on a larger scale. 

I found a source for printing my artwork on cups, t-shirts and phone cases and have been busy setting up my artwork with that company. A few are ready for sale in my shop www.etsy.com/artbytheseastudio

This company is also making prints of my originals in several sizes. 

Things should be quiet this week leading to Christmas so maybe I can get in some sewing and painting time. 

May each of you have a Blessed Christmas. 

Debbie