Art By Bobbie

It's a NEW year! 2012

2012-01-09T16:11:00.000-08:00

Happy New year!
We had an emotional ending to 2011 and gained a new, fresh, and holy perspective as we entered 2012. Our beloved Grandmother Holt passed away and we will miss her dearly. Through it all I felt a constant presence hovering over whispering and reminding me that: Life is fleeting. Draw close to family. Support one another. Love God. Love people...
Aaron and I are so thankful for Bren. She has been our ray of sunshine during all of this. I desperately held on to her words of wisdom and her simple understanding of her Great Grandmother's journey to heaven. Her childlike faith and innocence gave me comfort when everything was chaotic and just plain difficult. The way Bren see's things must be as Jesus sees things. Children keep everything simple and sweet. Their faith is strong.
Things have been very strange around here and with a roller coaster ride of ups and downs we decided to stay busy. So...
January was knighted as "Junk-It-January" in my house. All the things that I've been holding on to and storing for years has finally been sorted, and claimed a final destination. We have de-cluttered and organized everything we own. It feels good. It feels like I have been renewed both physically and spiritually. I feel free and my head is thinking clearly.
NOW...
I am ready to PAINT, craft with Bren, and re-stock my local galleries.

I will add new art soon.

Blessings,

Bobbie

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-14T10:59:00.000-08:00

I hope this season fills each one of you with peace, love, joy, and hope!
For the first time ever I decided not to take on a ton of Christmas commissions/orders and closed all request at the beginning of December. I didn't want to struggle with deadlines and lose sight of holiday fun and family. I hope everyone understands and will forgive me that I am beginning a new tradition of NOT working overtime so I may be present to making memories instead of stuff.
Our Christmas kick-off began last week when we went for our annual vacation to Disney World. It was awesome! Nothing sets the mood better (for me) like huge Christmas trees, snow on Main St. USA, a beautiful nativity in Hollywood Studios, giant poinsettia trees with a gospel choir singing in Epcot, and a cool safari ride in Animal Kingdom.
I'm so thankful.

FAQ:
For last minute gifts you can find my art all over the grand strand.
I have lots of ornaments and art available at my favorite galleries/shops:
Bodega in Conway for Everyday-Ornaments
Collectors Cafe in Myrtle Beach for original art work
Ebb and Flow Art Co-op in Murrells Inlet for both ornaments and art
Got the Goods in Pawleys Island for both ornaments and art
Each location is filled with an eclectic mix of my work and no two designs or creations are alike.
It's a blessing to be able to do what I love and also to support our local businesses in both Horry and Georgetown counties. "Southern by the grace of God" lol ;)
Love to y'all this Christmas Season and Happy New Year!
Bobbie

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T19:41:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is HERE! Make something special for your loved ones!
...
news and updates:
My "Let's Make Cupcakes" workshop was a huge success! We completed it last Sunday. I am looking forward to posting a highlights video of the entire workshop. It was so fun and I can't wait for the next one.
Block out your January calendar. I haven't settled on specifics but I know we'll do another 2 part workshop then. So excited. I'll introduce title and examples soon. The class will be inspired by Cindy Wunsch. We'll learn how to paint whimsical faces while incorporating mixed media layering. We'll also be adding our own personal inspirational quotes and encouraging words on our art creations. It's an explosion of creativity all on 1 canvas.
I bet that all sounds nuts but it WILL be awesome!
Blessings,
Bobbie

A sweet little cupcake demo video...

2011-11-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

Preview of the workshop fun we are going to have in November!

Pin It

WORKSHOP NEWS!

2011-10-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was playing in clay designing new Christmas ornaments and I had a great idea. How about I offer a "How-To" Workshop?
For me, creating anything with my own hands is a magical process and I want anyone interested to experience the joy and fun that ART brings.
The best part is your creations will also make perfect Christmas gifts for family and friends. ;)

The workshop is called: "LET'S MAKE CUPCAKES"

The dates for this workshop will be Sunday, November 13th & Sunday November 20th 4:00-6:00pm
(It's a 2 part workshop)

On Sunday, November 13th we will be creating our unique designs out of clay (as many as you can fit on your cookie sheets)

On Sunday, November 20th we will be painting and distressing each of our clay ornaments.
I will be providing clay, paints, brushes, wire, etc. and showing you everything you need to know in order to make your very own ornaments year after year.

Workshop Cost: $50 and includes your supplies (You will need to bring your own cookie sheet!)
Imagine all the miniature ornaments you can make and fit on your cookie sheet! It's going to be awesome!

If you are interested please email me at:

greenbirdstudio@gmail.com

Space will be limited and workshop fee due upon first meeting.
Can't wait!
Blessings,
Bobbie

Everyday Ornaments are READY!

2011-09-27T08:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has been the longest production but finally these little gems are available for sale. For such a time as this.
These will be available at Conway's Bodega, Pawley's Got the Goods, and Murrells Inlet's Ebb and Flow.
Until then contact me for a sneak peek. Delivery scheduled for Friday and Saturday.

Angels for sale!

2011-09-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the angels for sale...

above: Vertical Angel #1 size: 2.5"x5.5" $20

above: Vertical angel #2 size: 2.5"x5.5" $20

Circle Angel #3 size: 3"diameter $16

Circle Angel #4 size: 3" diameter $16

Each ornament is sweetly packaged with foam core backing and inside an 8"x10" clear poly bag.

If you are interested please message me.
*and I know what some of you might be thinking... and YES, updating my etsy account is on my "to do" list. Etsy.com will make online transactions much easier. Thanks for your patience.
Blessings,
Bobbie

Coming soon!!!!

2011-09-23T06:08:00.000-07:00

These are my favorite ornaments to date! I love them. I wrestled with the idea of naming each one but then decided that I wanted their peaceful faces and color schemes to speak to the individual. I didn't want to force my interpretation on this series.

Next step: Pictures and packaging...then they'll be available for purchase! :)

I'm deciding now if I want to upload these to www.Etsy.com or if I'm just going to let these angel ornaments find new homes locally? Suggestions?

Creating...

2011-09-23T05:32:00.000-07:00

Thoughts on the Creative Process...

2011-09-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

I'm reading through this book, "Untitled: Thoughts on the Creative Process" by Blain Hogan.
Everyone should read it.
I have been under serious conviction as Blain confronts my creative-process issues head on. It has been a heavy read for me but also one that brings me so much hope. I realize that I am not alone.
Here is the most enlightening thing I've read so far:
(Prepare for a mind detonator!)

"No one cares about your ideas or how great a pitch-person you are if you can't execute your vision." ~Hogan

WOW! I totally couldn't AGREE more!
I get so annoyed with people who are walking "ideas" without any fruits of their idea-labor. I want to see something, anything, from the idea-maker person. If they are someone that NEVER has an end product I eventually tune them out.
Don't think for one second that I'm pointing the finger without personal conviction though...
Here's some more from his book:

"Even in life, the idea of something can be much more exciting or compelling than the reality of the created thing.
So how do we avoid this in our creative endeavors?

Some of you might say that I shouldn't have cast such a compelling vision, or that I would have been better off to throw the pitch slightly in order to give myself a "reality cushion" to fall on.
In other words, undersell.
Lower the bar. Manage expectations.
Hear me when I say this, Never, ever, ever, undersell something so that you can over deliver.
That's what scaredy cats do.
Instead you must make it your aim to cast your vision as brightly and vividly as you possibly can, with one caveat:
Your vision casting must be in direct proportion to the work you are willing to do to make your vision come to life." (from Untitled: Thoughts on the Creative Process)

EXECUTION IS EVERYTHING

"Ideas are cheap and plentiful. The original pitch idea is such a small part of a business that it's almost negligible. The real question is how well you execute." ~Jason Fried, REWORK

Time Lapse Art

2011-09-13T06:23:00.001-07:00

New Everyday Ornaments for fall/winter 2011

2011-09-12T16:34:00.000-07:00

What I LOVE about "Everyday Ornaments" is that they don't have to be just "seasonal" decor. They are precious on a Christmas tree but, I also include miniature suction cup hooks that make your ornament ready to hang anywhere year round!
This idea started out because I was looking into ACEO & Artist Trading Cards (if you ever get a chance to google or etsy.com those it's pretty awesome and inspirational). I love having sweet sentiments and scriptures surrounding me daily. I wanted a way to display these encouraging words in my art and not just to put inside an ACEO book.
There was lots of trial and error while finding my right mediums and then one day...voila!
Here's a sneak peek of some of the new ornaments!

Everyday Country Ornaments: on jar lids

Everyday Ornaments: mini-artworks on wood

To preview last years Everyday Ornaments check my 2010 archive.

FOCUS

2011-08-30T05:17:00.000-07:00

Focus is key. "Focus" is the Pee Wee Herman word of the season I think?

I feel like yelling "Aaaaaaahhhhh!" every time I hear it referenced in conversation, discussion, reading, etc. Why? Because there's an obvious life lesson/hurdle that the Creator wants me to grasp and understand and until then it will be the central lesson of my world...
It's simple and complex. Focus.

Does that mean in my work? Obviously. Does that carry over into my mothering? Definitely. Can it translate over and into my marriage? Certainly. But most importantly the clouds are parting to reveal that Jesus Christ himself is asking me to FOCUS on Him.
Remove all the noise and day to day drama and be still.
Be still and know that He is there and He is God.
My biggest "Ah ha moment"

(thanks Oprah. I now feel like she branded that saying) is this:
"...The ultimate goal God has for us is not power but personal intimacy with Him. Yes, God wants to bring us healing, but more than anything, He wants us to know our Healer. Yes, He wants to give us resurrection life, but more than that, He wants us to know the Resurrection and the Life." (Beth Moore)

So I am focusing my thoughts and my attention on this, realizing that our Savior doesn't NEED us but our God WANTS us. That's intense. I'm letting that sink in. Re-wiring myself to understand that it's all about seeking out Him above EVERYTHING else. We do not have a "genie in a bottle" God but a God that has such an intense love for His children that He sacrificed Himself completely that we may truly understand and trust in the great "I Am".
Blessings,
Bobbie
p.s. at some point I'll post more artwork too ;) This life lesson if far more important to me. Thanks for reading it.

Art and Life: Hello Fall... Are you there?

2011-08-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

It's that time. Yep, we are all waiting for Starbucks to make it official and to go on and offer the Pumpkin Spice latte. Yum...

And since fall is on the horizon I can't help but feel the change myself. I have been able to identify my seasonal mood swings easier as time ages me and I get wiser ;)

There is a restlessness in me. I have this imaginary pile of creative-mess before me and I feel like I'm trying to carry the mess (all these ideas, both in my art and in my daily life/schedule). It's a circus balancing act with me trying to maintain my center of gravity while not falling off the giant ball and simultaniously I'm trying hard not to drop the huge pile in my arms but it's swaying and I am sweating and peering over each side trying to see which direction to move in. Totally reminds me of the Wii circus juggling game. haha!

So if you were able to follow that vision with me then you'll know that I am in a transition...again. Thank God for progress and change and seasons.
I have made a new resolution (btw, I never wait for a "new year" to start a spontaneous-eureka resolution). I have decided to MAKE myself wake up before dawn. Some days are more successful than others. My goal is have a moment of focus every morning while God's mercies are NEW and while my baby is asleep. In the quiet dark of my house I'm able to breathe, sip hot coffee, pray, and logically plan out the day.
I'm opening myself up for inspiration from anywhere and everywhere.
I'm looking forward to beginning my art for the Christmas season and creating new unique ornaments. As of now I don't know what they will look like but I know that it is brewing.
Does anyone relate? Which season is your favorite? Who else is in limbo with me? :)
Blessings,
Bobbie

saying our "goodbyes" to an awesome summer 2011

Art Preview for July

2011-07-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

The paintings below are my latest works for a few local galleries. Keep in mind that the contrast is high in the photos so you can see their depth and texture. If you are familiar with my art then you know I love my heavy textures and bright beachy colors. These colors are not saturated but the blacks are popping from high contrast. Also, the paintings have been altered a little bit since taking these pics. I have sanded and polyurethaned each piece too. Sorry the final product isn't up for preview. Seems it's a better photo-picture without the glassy polyurethane'd finish because the shine doesn't bounce all over the camera's image. ;)
Blessings,
Bobbie

"Live Free" 24"x24"

"Beach Houses" 24"x24"

"Blue Heron" 24"x24"

New Art Stuff!!!

2011-06-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to preview a brand new art collaboration with my friend and owner of Got the Goods in Pawleys Island, Amy Kingsland. These little charms will only be found in her store and I'm really excited to share them with you.
We are steadily coming up with more unique and quirky ideas and look forward to beginning a clothing line as well.
Check these new products out:

Seahorse Redneck Wine Glass by Grace Ware

Peacock Redneck Wine Glass by Grace Ware

Original Mini-Art Note Cards with Envelopes... 5 for $10

June update

2011-06-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

The art shows have come and gone and were all great successes. I'm so thankful to be housed at Collectors Cafe of Myrtle Beach, SC, Ebb and Flow art co-op in M.I., SC, and Got the Goods in Pawleys Island, SC.

The grand opening of Got the Goods & Cicada was awesome and I had a really fun time painting there on location and hope to do it again very soon. There's a great "energy" in that store and Amy and Marlow (owners) are wonderful ladies!...

So now I'm caught up from my deadline-painting-frenzy and I get to relax, breathe, and play in the paints without a reason or priority in mind. I will add more images soon and I will let you know when and where you can purchase.

My inspiration now is overflowing after taking our baby girl to Riverbank Zoo in Columbia, SC for the first time. Can't wait to paint!

Blessings,

Bobbie

Live Painting...

2011-05-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

Thursday, June 2nd from 5:00-8:00pm

I will be doing live paintings @ the grand opening of Cicada and Got the Goods
Please drop in!!!
New location: 11326 Ocean Hwy. Unit1, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

Blessings,
Bobbie Holt

Next Showing...

2011-05-20T18:26:00.001-07:00

Collector's Cafe' Spring Art Show May 25th 7-9pm
Please contact Collector's Cafe if you are interested in attending.
http://www.collectorscafeandgallery.com/
Below are some images that will be at Collector's. Some have already sold BUT I will have replacements with NEW creations especially for the night of the show.
Blessings,
Bobbie

"You Can Go Your Own Way"

"Starry Night at the Beach"

"Happy Hour" SOLD

May Art Preview

2011-05-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

"Color Your World" @ Got the Goods

"Style is Eternal" @ Collector's Cafe' SOLD

"We Journey Together" Sea Turtles @ Got The Goods SOLD

Spring/Summer 2011

2011-05-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

Bobbie's current and upcoming shows:

Got the Goods in Pawleys Island, SC: Grand opening June 2011 (Got the Goods has a new location in the seagrass shopping center)

Ebb and Flow Art co-op in Murrells Inlet, SC: Spring showing beginning May 15th, 2011

Collector's Cafe in Myrtle Beach, SC: May 25th, 2011

Opening night-invitation only (call for details)

Update coming soon!

2011-01-27T19:42:00.000-08:00

Wow, I just realized that I'm pretty terrible keeping up with a blog.

It's been way too long since I've paintined on a large scale and I'm frantic with anticipation to do exactly that. I have a head and heart full of inspiration... I have no idea where it will lead but I just want to be in a room with my paints, my music, and a sweet tea with no interruptions.

-sigh-

There will be a picture update soon with NEWness. ;)

Until then, don't forget about this artist. I'm still in the zone.

Blessings,

Bobbie

Last Call!

2010-10-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

This week I am making my "everyday ornaments" available through my blog. If you are interested please message me or comment me. I haven't set up an online store yet so I am taking personal checks or money orders which can be snail-mailed to me. Sorry for the inconvenience but I hope to have my greenbirdstudio.etsy.com store open and ready for business within the month. Until then I wanted to make these "everyday ornaments" available to you before they are shipped off to my local galleries NEXT week.

Each ornament is $14 and that includes shipping (U.S.A.).

First come, first served... or in the blogging world, first commented, first served. :)

I look forward to hearing from you and I will list details then.

Blessings,

Bobbie

"Live Your Dream." elephant: 3.5x4.5"

"...How He loves us." church"

home "sweet home": 3.5x4.5"

"Thankful": angel 2.5x5"

"You have purpose"girl: 2.5x5"

"Conway, S.C." palm: 2.5x5"

"Relax" fish: 3.5x4.5"

"Chilled" bird: 3.5x4.5"

"Mother hen": 3"

"Relax" palm: 2.5x5"

Conway's Live Oak Arts Festival

2010-09-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

Come see me this Saturday, October 2nd at the old Conway courthouse under the oaks. I will be showing off my "everyday ornaments" and creating some on site too.

Attention Locals (Conway, SC)

2010-09-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

Everyday-Ornaments are now in Bodega on Main Street in Conway. Over 40 original miniature artworks available and ready to hang...

Blessings!

Bobbie

Everyday-Ornaments: No holiday required

2010-09-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited about these little sweet ornaments. A lot of time, creative thinking, many finger pricks, sweat and tears went into these. ;)

What's so unique is that you can decide how you want to use them (I include a mini window suction-hook with each piece too). Some ideas for decorating with these mini-originals are: Fan pull, bathroom/bedroom mirror inspiration, window art, and even your Christmas tree...

I'm just as excited about the packaging too. Each ornament has received so much TLC. They are individually packaged to cardstock paper with foam core backing inside a clear poly-sleeve bag and sealed for protection.

"Beauty Queen" 20.

Original mixed media on 3x5 wood

1/4" thick

(a little bigger than a deck of cards)

"No Worries Only Trust" 20.

Original mixed media on 3x5 wood

1/4" thick

(a little bigger than a deck of cards)

"It's Never Too Late" 20.

Original mixed media on 3x5 wood

1/4" thick

(a little bigger than a deck of cards)

"Give Love" 20.

Original mixed media on 3x5 wood

1/4" thick

(a little bigger than a deck of cards)

"Listen to the Spirit" 35.

Original acrylic on canvas,

hand-sewn using beading wire

wrapped around copper framing

accessorized with sweet charms

(seashell, "believe" charm, glass beads)

3"x5"

Sea Turtle 30. SOLD

Original acrylic on canvas,

hand-sewn using beading wire

wrapped around copper framing

accessorized with sweet charms

(silver starfish with glass beads)

4"x4"

Rainbow Trout 35.

Original acrylic on canvas,

hand-sewn using beading wire

wrapped around copper framing

accessorized with sweet charms

(seashell with glass beads)

2"x5"

If you are interested in the above ornaments please send me a message or comment. I am taking custom orders for the mixed media on wood ornaments too. More details soon.

Limited time on this offer ;)

Stay Tuned...

2010-08-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

New art work coming soon. Some sweet pieces for sale and available only through this blog... Others will have special locations locally and I'll list where you can purchase. Thanks for checking in.

Blessings,

Bobbie

Showing May-July 2010 at Collector's Cafe of Myrtle Beach

2010-05-20T18:34:00.001-07:00

above: "The Basics" SOLD

above: "Summer Roses"

above: "Beach Nights" SOLD

above: "Keys" SOLD

preview of some mini-art

2010-03-22T15:52:00.001-07:00

"A conglomeration of inspiration". Using tips from art workshop's I've taken from friends and mentors over the years, along with all the creativity piled up inside my own head that's been waiting to be released. I hope you enjoy these! These are available for purchase at "Plum Pretty" in Pawley's Island, SC.

"Peace In My Heart"

"Be Polite"

"You Help Me See..."

"Grace"

I'm putting together the information/syllabus to begin my very own mixed media art workshop. I look forward to throwing some art parties locally (Conway-Pawley's Area S.C.). If you'd like details please email me: greenbirdstudio@gmail.com

Blessings~

Lots to do...

2010-03-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

This is me playing in the paints before getting too serious about my art. Once I start feeling serious I have to STOP and that rule applies with life too.

"Together we make our way"... So many times we try to do it on our own. The lesson I learn from that is to be humble, look above and to my right and left, receive help, be an encourager, and don't live life with a clinched fist. If we are gripping a tight hold to something then our hands cannot be open to receive anything in return. Basically it's all about sharing. Share life and love.

"I'm not waiting to begin". This is what I call super mixed media. I NEEDED to stamp this quote out on this funky angel's dress to remind me to stop delaying my art. She's sealed with drips of bee's wax and clear tar gel. That's why she's shiny.

Another angel... "I will face the day with a joyful heart". No preconceived ideas of how the day "should" go, instead, I will be grateful for a new day and I will not define my happiness through others or life's circumstances. That's just too much pressure for others to have to try to live up to and life is not predictable or easy so I will adjust myself.

The painting above is a church building with legs, arms, hand, heart, eye, etc. Simply put - "We are the church". A walking, talking, breathing church. May our hearts carry that vision out!

Meanwhile...

I have a huge rubbermaid bin filled with small scraps of wood that WILL become original mini-artworks. I will post them as they develop and I hope to have some encouraging/how-to video blogs coming soon.

Blessings,

Bobbie

One God, One Creator, One Father...

2010-02-20T06:08:00.000-08:00

Click below for video...

Danny's Story...

If you listen carefully at the end you hear me saying this to Danny.
“Keep trying to make it man.”
He looked me square in the eye…cocked his head sideways with a confused look on his face…and said,
“Trying to make it? No man. I ain’t trying to make it…I’m making it. Jah puts His soldiers everywhere. Jah says, Yea though you walk through the valley of the shadow of death… So He places some of us, in that valley.”

Game, set, match…

Save us from these comforts.
Break us of our need for the familiar
Spare us any joy that’s not of You
And we will worship You

Carlos

~Thanks Carlos for sharing this!!!

Bobbie

December update...

2009-12-16T11:19:00.000-08:00

As every year goes by I have noticed a pattern in my seasonal behavior/quirks.

Typically, I get super excited about Christmas around the first of November BUT by the time December gets here I'm ready to dismantle the tree and put away the decor before the big day even arrives. I've actually done that before (crazy I know). Of course this is the time of year that I especially enjoy being with my family and friends and really getting into that "Christmas spirit"...but on the other hand I also feel very weighty with art "to-do's" and usually run myself down before Christmas day even gets here.

BUT, This year I've become more self-aware of my art/life issues. Already this Christmas season feels different. My baby girl has changed all my bad quirky behavior and I have just really been able to absorb everything about this sweet season with a new vision. Sure I have gotten stressed with the family/friends Christmas wish list but we are keeping it so simple and sweet this year and it has been refreshing.

When December comes to a close I look forward to my usual "organizing/clean sweep" through the house including everything in my art studio (which continues to relocate from room to room). I'm excited and I have a lot of creative new ideas and techniques BUT I'm not going to rush into them. I am going to let them slowly cook in my head while I continue to enjoy my first Christmas with my sweet baby girl. I look forward to posting new artwork beginning in January 2010.

Merry Christmas!

Inlet Oak Live Painting

2009-11-05T20:13:00.000-08:00

I stepped out of my comfort zone tonight and was given the opportunity to "create" in front of a live audience. I don't typically jump at these chances. This is actually my second live painting. I am really happy that I didn't chicken out. I was nervous but the experience was exciting and refreshing. It's good to stretch myself and do things that initially cause discomfort because then I grow and God's able to show me that I can do more than I thought I could.

I am so grateful for my wonderful friend Jennifer Averette who always gives me incredible opportunities to "show off" my work.

Above is the finished piece I call "Inlet Oak". I look forward to actually attempting more live paintings.

Blessings!

2009-10-28T10:32:00.000-07:00

Fall Art Work

Now showing at Collector's Cafe Myrtle Beach, SC

"Wine Tasting Anyone?"

"The Door is Open"

Roses in Vase: "Rich"

Above are 3 of the 5 pieces in the Collector's Cafe collection showing. Opening Night is November 4th and invitation is required. If you'd like to attend the show please contact Collector's Cafe (843)449-9370

Blessings,

Bobbie

art for sale!

2009-10-01T13:34:00.000-07:00

angel art for sale starting at $40...

Showing at Ebb and Flow or contact me ...

New one of a kind angels made almost every day!!!

Blessings,

Bobbie

more angels for sale...

2009-10-01T12:59:00.001-07:00

I have some new ideas stirring and simmering in my head but nothing concrete enough to give me that "Ah ha" moment. Still I MUST paint! ...so I continue to paint angels. I've been playing only Kings of Leon in the cd player (I get on these kicks with a new band or album and that's just the way it is). All the angels begin with mindless (but thoughtful) paint strokes of color and splashes and eventually, after layers of paint I carve in my angels... I think to myself, "this is my prayer angel, and this angel is my reminder to be kind, and this one is a reminder to surrender, and this angel is a reminder to love one another..." It's spontaneous worship and precious quiet time that I NEED in order to keep order in my life. A part of me wants to keep every angel I create but that wouldn't benefit our family much to have stacks of angel artwork... Instead I'm creating these angels in the hopes of selling them. Beginning this year we (my husband and I) took Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University class and decided that we not only want to be debt free but eventually we want to have FREEDOM to go and do as we please and to be able to serve others in whatever way God will allow us to. In order to do so it starts by facing our debt, bills, and my lack of discipline when it comes to spending money... If I have to paint angels til I die I will... There's always the bigger picture that we don't get to see until God reveals it to us in the end...

my favorite season...

2009-09-17T13:06:00.001-07:00

I have decided fall is my favorite season. A close second is the spring time BUT I am loving the start of fall. The cool breeze blows in and I breathe deeper and feel refreshed with new ideas and creativity while feeling a sense of nostalgia as each day goes by. The smell of coffee in the morning, the crisp air and start of leaves changing colors on the trees, the sweet window displays at stores decorated with pumpkins and bright deep colors of potted mums... sigh. This same time every year I get a burst of wild and frantic energy that tells me to CREATE!

Thankfully I have been able to continue to paint while being a full time mom with my almost 5 month old baby girl.

I have new work displayed at Got the Goods in Pawley's Island including the painting shown above and I will be showing at Collector's Cafe of Myrtle Beach in November...

Koi Fish are one of my favorite subjects right now. I stare out at my dad's koi fish pond and watch them glide through the water and I feel such peace and relaxation. I love all the different meanings that the Koi fish symbolize too.

So for now, I am going to go and take care of my sweet child and CREATE!

Blessings,

Bobbie

Angels for sale!

2009-07-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

My newest works are born out of a need to CREATE something, anything, ... colors, messy, abstract, and thoughtless. That's right! Thoughtless. Too many times in the art world critics over think in their response to my work and then in turn I over think in my creation process and then I get in the way of it all and become stifled, annoyed, and BLOCKED.

Bren, my baby girl, is my muse right now. As I pray for the "unseen warriors" to protect her day in and day out, I'm drawn in to the spiritual - angelic world. I do believe in angels and that's where it all begins. With Bren still only being 9 weeks old I have small windows of opportunity to create ... so I have been creating angels as a theme for the time being. I feel like they each have a purpose and personality of their own. It's also a sweet reminder of the real angels that are all around us as I have these little painted angels laying throughout the house drying and waiting for their new homes. The angels are painted on scraps of canvas ranging in sizes that can be sweetly framed up to 8"x10" inches.

The angels to me are tender yet bold in their appearance as I freely paint whatever comes out of the brush, saturating the canvas in acrylic paint with splashes of water, and neon splatters with the flick of my wrist... Leaving the line work unpredictable so no two are ever alike.

If you are interested in seeing more angels email me at greenbirdstudio@gmail.com

the days go by sweetly

2009-06-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is now 7 weeks old... Nothing else takes priority now but her. I could gush on and on about how sweet it is but none will ever know unless you are living it yourself... As far as art work? My creativity has been dedicated to learning about all things baby and how to feed, bathe, rock, change, etc. while maintaining so sort of normalcy in our everyday world. It is very different from how I imagined much harder and much more rewarding. So much love to give and receive...

I pulled out the paints the other day only to be interrupted by a hungry baby. When I finally got back to them, Bren was then ready to play and that my friends is much more fun so I abandon the scene of creating new works for some interaction with the babe. I know they (the art creations) are inside somewhere waiting patiently to come out. My vision is to roll out the canvas on the ground outside and have at it for hours. We'll definitely take pictures and video of that day.

Planning ahead is no longer a possibility since baby Bren makes my schedule. No worries. I'm so blessed.

Loving life,

Bobbie

angels

2009-04-26T08:11:00.001-07:00

After about 7 months of feeling no new excitement in my art my wait is over... With the arrival of my first born coming within a week for sure - the nesting bug of organizing has shifted to me having painting fever. It's like a natural drug. I'm trying to create as much art as I can this week because I don't know what life will be like after next week - ALL things will change for sure. I'm so excited and ready. God has such perfect timing with giving mom's-to-be 9 full months of waiting, incubating, and loving their little belly buddy. I can't wait to see her face...

I've been painting a lot of angels... Angels of "peace", "hope", "patience".... All things that I want to possess... The angel above measures about 5"x12". I'm going to put this angel with a family of angels in one of my upcoming shows.

Gearing up...

2009-03-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

I find myself always having to make an announcement to the world when I'm getting ready to have a painting fit. These painting fits can last for a day or months at a time and I am excited when I feel my heartbeat fluttering in a panic to paint. I think by saying, "Listen up world! I'm getting ready to do this!..." - I must be giving myself permission to "clock-out" from my social life and envelope myself in the mystical world of my imagination and paints. Lately I haven't had much of a social life (my fault) BUT in my own bubble of nesting in my house and now nursery I am beginning to feel a bit out of touch with my creative side and there is an unrest and urgency rising within.

During this time I usually organize my thoughts, typically NEVER writing them down because I want the "feeling" to stick and give me some sort of REAL direction without forcing it with note taking. If I get a specific vision (from the muses) I will sketch it but for the most part I love the freedom and the excitement I get when I just begin to create based on a concept of "what would happen if I do this?"... Everything is a discovery in my work and I long for it and live for it. Uncovering new techniques, making "one-of-a-kind" works that I know I'll never be able to do again, polishing my craft and getting better at it...

So, all that to say, I'm in a creative mood and I am always grateful and thankful when this "feeling" takes hold of me because it's really depressing when it's gone. It's the roller coaster that I don't want to get off of because then I'll just feel empty.

That's my creative process as twisted as it may seem. Maybe you have the same feelings or maybe you operate with a different style and approach. Either way I think it's important for every human being to tap into that creative side because I truly think we were born for it.

That's my thoughts for the day.

Of course a cold front has moved in and I am stuck just organizing my thoughts because it's too cold outside for me to work. Better luck tomorrow and maybe it's just the right timing for all the good to come out...

ready or not...

2009-03-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

definitely not...

We are getting ready for my child birthing class tomorrow. It's an all day event at the hospital. The purpose being - to teach us what to expect from start to finish when this baby decides to make her arrival. I'm freaking out. Still. Time is flying by. Many of my friends (now moms) said they felt like they were pregnant forever. No! I feel like I just re-read that positive sign on my 9th test still in disbelief.

I'm not unhappy about it. Don't get me wrong. I feel like royalty when people notice that I'm expecting. They open doors for me, give me sweet smiles, even complete strangers feel a connection with me because of this giant baby bump. I also love feeling her kick and flip around. Such a miracle... She could stay in there forever if she wanted.

The truth is, once she's out - it's up to us. No more umbilical cord feeding her, no more self-clean-up in the womb after a potty break, no more protection in the cozy bubble. She's going to be totally exposed. To this world and all it's germ-iness and problems.

I pray that Aaron and I don't have scary feelings of "we're in over our heads"... I pray to feel equipped for this amazing journey and that we will be able to savor every moment. For now I just rub my belly as she kicks and feel thankful that I still have another couple months to "relax"...

be the best . . .

2009-03-05T11:24:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite quotes is: "It occurs to me it's not so much the aim of the devil to lure me with evil as it is to preoccupy me with the meaningless" by Donald Miller.

It's so true isn't it?

The more I begin to fulfill my destiny the more it seems that some sort of drama ensues. I could prepare myself for it but somehow it catches me off guard every single time. The funny thing is, once I dissect the drama I realize how meaningless it really is. Just another distraction that the "darkness" throws my way to draw me away from my purpose. I hate giving into it and usually when I realize what has happened I find that I've already given it way too much of my attention.

It has been my prayer over the last few weeks that I will be aware of my surroundings and that I will not give in to paranoia but I will also not live in an oblivion either.

The circumstances for "drama" or the "meaningless" don't always have to be people related. We can retreat in self-defeat over some really silly stuff. I hope that I continue to grow more aware of all the "red flag" moments when my spirit says, "here it comes... be aware!"

After the dust settles I see the sun rising again and am thankful that God's mercies are new every morning... So let me wake with the dawn.

musings...

2009-03-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

Lately I have had many late night encounters with the muses that circle above my head. It's impossible for me to attract all of their "genius" as they throw out ideas and spill out their colorful creations in my dreams and imagination. It's just too much to take in at once. Truthfully I'm lucky if I can grab on to a single thought and make it to my paints or song book in time. It's a blessed event when I am able to capture their vision. I can't claim it for my own. All I can be is an open vessel aware of the treasure that could be moments or years away. Open to their timing and not my own and prepared for all the ups and downs it may bring.

Here are some images that I've been working on over the last several months. I must say that I have not captured in full what I was hoping to convey - I can't even say exactly what it is that I want but the closer I get to it the more it feels like de'ja' vu. Like a moment I am reliving and there will come a day that I will look at the piece and say, "Ah ha"! Maybe that day will come or maybe we don't feel that sense of arrival til we reach the other side. Keeps me searching and it keeps me growing.