THE JOURNEY TO MY DREAMS

Manic Monday

2012-02-13T17:43:00.002-05:00

So beautiful!

Fashion Girls

2012-02-08T14:53:00.003-05:00

Weapons of choice: Reeves Water Colours, Micron Pen

Timed Sketch Tuesday

2012-02-07T13:15:00.002-05:00

...on a post-it...

Fashion Friday: Ooo La La - Gwyneth Paltrow

2012-02-03T09:40:00.004-05:00

Gwyneth Paltrow is smokin' in the March issue of Harper's Bazaar! She's rockin' several beautiful black dresses that I would love to own, myself. Read more HERE!

Timed Sketch Tuesday

2012-01-31T12:47:00.001-05:00

Manic Monday

2012-01-30T14:08:00.001-05:00

STUNNING!

Timed Sketch Tuesday

2012-01-17T16:44:00.002-05:00

Sketchbook Time...

2012-01-16T14:47:00.007-05:00

...so late Friday/early Saturday I just had happen to be up flipping through Tumblr and came across a great photo (as usual), that I wanted to save for a possible future study for a drawing or painting.
I was so inpired I stayed up and went ahead and added this one in my sketchbook. It isn't complete & definitely not perfect, but this is how far I got...I see a few things I'd love to change, but I might just leave it be...I made her head XL lol...well I did actually fall asleep in the middle of this.

If you can't guess who it is, it's Cassie...the Photo Source follows. Being that I was on my phone, I can't find the Tumblr page right now, but I'll be sure to add it asap!

Weapon of choice: Derwent Graphite Pencils

Fashion Friday

2012-01-13T09:46:00.004-05:00

One of my favorites, I created her in December of last year...I've created a twin for her, they face each other on their own canveses. I'll post a photo of them together soon.
I'll also post the photo source for this illustration/painting.

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!!!!

Weapons of choice: Acrylic & Watercolors on Canvas

Three Minute Thursday

2012-01-12T12:56:00.006-05:00

I guess I'm on a Naomi kick, from the other day. I saw this photo, over on SADIDDY's Tumblr, HERE...

This was a quick one, I wanted to clean it up & keep adding to it. But I did this to myself, with the timed sketches. So what you see is what you get, on these.

Naomi Campbell + Roberto Cavalli Spring 2012

2012-01-10T09:39:00.003-05:00

Lines...love...

Movement...Inspiration...

Fabulous...

Two Minute Timed Tuesday

2012-01-10T09:01:00.003-05:00

This timed sketch was done in 2mins.

So I obviously need to go a little darker with my lines, when using pencil....this one is ew! But I'm posting it anyway... :/

Charcoal Monday

2012-01-09T10:00:00.002-05:00

Playing with my Charcoals....

Timed Sketch Thursday

2012-01-05T17:07:00.006-05:00

So I totally thought 3 mins would be alot of time! Not at all...well not right now anyway. I'm usually very detailed, even with my sketches. I don't like showing them, unless they are up to par, by my standards. But I know, and as I've been told, I've got to loosen up more. Be a little more free with my lines & movement, within my sketches.

This sketch was done with CHARCOAL...love that stuff!

So here's to my first timed sketch, for all to see... :/
Here's to improvement :0) because I know I will, if I keep at it.

My goal is to have awesome sketches within 2-3 mins, and I may even add a splash of color, once complete.

I'll have to attach the photo that this is from tomorrow. Found the editoral photo on Tumblr.

Weapon of choice: Charcoal

Miguel Endara & His Stipple

2012-01-05T10:18:00.002-05:00

What brilliance!!

Hero from Miguel Endara on Vimeo.

Read and see more HERE

Dots, dots, dots, dots, dots....

2012-01-05T10:01:00.009-05:00

I love them. After seeing the video of Miguel Endara, working his Stipple drawing, I remembered how much I enjoy the process. Especially the satisfaction at the end, when you can stand back and say..."wow, I did that!"

The technique is called Stipple. It is very time consuming, but the end result is more than worth it!

I first learned of Stipple back in High School, all the way over in Aviano Italy, Aviano AFB. My art teacher, Mr. O'Donnell was awesome!! He gave us different photos to choose from, to recreate as a Stipple. Here was mine below....

Here is one I took way too long to finish...but it wasn't an assignment, just something I did at home several years ago. I called her "Lady"

This one didn't take long at all...I had planned to do a small project, but didn't get around to it...I might pick it back up...Sushi Series - Tekka-Maki Tuna Roll

I'm definitely brining more Stipple your way, in 2012.

Oh yea......

2012-01-03T10:16:00.001-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

Super excited for 2012 and I hope you all are too!!

Shoes, Chocolate & Wine!!!

2011-12-22T15:02:00.006-05:00

So I didn't get this post out before the New Year :( but I still had to share.

I had such a awesome time at the Sole Society Holiday Soiree! Hosted by Eboni of Fashionista Next Door & co-hosted by Breck of Fashion Without Guilt

I had such an awesome time, picking out a FREE pair of Sole Society shoes, sipping on wine, eating chocolate and catching up with the other bloggers that I had not seen since the summer, at the Fashionable Atlanta Blogger MeetUp.

I ran into my homie LexiWithTheCurls of Curls Coils and Kinks !! It always great talking to someone and you both can relate to each. Which I found with several of the ladies I spoke with.

I also got to meet Cath of AsianCajuns!!!!
They were my daily go to blog for years back in '07 or '08, and then my computer had problems and I lost all my favorites. And their blog domain had just switched, and I didn't think to google them. So one day Eboni was at an event and meet them posted about it and I again have the twins on my blog reader again. I think I can remember this time, AsianCajuns.com lol

Read more and view more photos of the Sole Society Holiday Soiree HERE

Betsey Johnson S/S 2010

2011-12-07T14:52:00.004-05:00

...I did this sketch a couple of years ago, I think late 2009 or early 2010...I've always wanted to do more with it...still thinking...I love the sheer gloves! (Sorry for the scan quality)

Tis the Season...

2011-12-04T09:41:00.003-05:00

to be Fashionable!! xo

Leopard Print Illustrated

2011-11-16T20:45:00.005-05:00

Here's my quick sketch of my favorite wedges!

Here's my quick sketch of my favorite wedges!

Weapons of choice: Graphite Pencil, Micron Pen and Watercolor

Thanksgiving is right around the corner...

2011-11-16T15:26:00.003-05:00

...and I created this cutie pie Tapanga. I know this post is super late...but if you are one of those that like to send out cards for all occasions. Well here's a great one for you...

Available HERE!

Kelsi Dagger Giveaway!!

2011-11-03T13:08:00.002-04:00

Make your way over to Fashion Snag for a pair of Ricci Booties froom Kelsi Dagger!!!!

Leopard Pumps & Wedges!!

2011-11-03T12:34:00.010-04:00

Yes, I'm still on my leopard kick....today it's all about the shoes, my fave!!

Eboni over at The Fashionista Next Door showed off these lovely Leopard Pumps by Sole Society...check out her post HERE!

I have been in love with these Giuseppe Zanotti Sculpted Platform Leopard Wedges (now that's a name, try saying that 3x's really fast) since last fall...when I saw this photo on Tumblr...

and even more so, when I saw them on Jacqueline of Fashion Snag

Can't Get Enough...

2011-11-01T13:26:00.004-04:00

...of the leopard prints...and look what I saw today in my newsfeed on Facebook!
This cute hat, posted by Target Style!

You can purchase it online at Target.com. It's only $20!!!! :0)

...this is going to look awesome in graphite...hehehee ;)

Shop It To Me - Facebook - Designer Giveaway!

2011-11-01T10:59:00.003-04:00

CLICK HERE to ENTER!!!!

Seeing Spots...

2011-10-26T11:27:00.006-04:00

...I think they're Leopard......

Even though this bag came out this past June via Alexander Wang, I actually think it's perfect for Fall.
It is out of my price range ($950) at the moment...but hey a girl can dream...

I'm starting to see illustrated Leopard prints.... ;-)

Check Out This Cute GIVEAWAY!!

2011-10-25T11:09:00.003-04:00

Check out this super cute giveaway over at Jaclyn Day's Blog. :0)

Lipstick Manual ~ Part I

2011-10-21T11:13:00.012-04:00

Wow...can you believe it...I'm posting two days in a row LOL!

Yes, I had planned more for my last post and this one, but I didn't want to keep waiting until the next parts were complete, to hold up posting any longer...so...you'll get Part II's very shortly. ;0)

Dominique of LipStick Manual is actual one of my followers that I've been communicating with & following for the longest. She's super sweet and I love her blog, I try to visit daily.

She's sporting one of the season's trends...polka dots!

With this illustration, and Rocquelle's I was trying to decide if I wanted to be as detailed with the faces or not. So I went with two different styles. I do know that I'm not happy with how the details turned out...being that I love drawing portraits and I actually started out drawing portraits...this just doesn't satisfy me. I want it to look just like the individual that I'm drawing...

I'd rather be detailed with faces only with portraits and a fashion illustration or just an illustration shouldn't be as detailed anyway. So from now on...since I need to improve my sketching & illustration (speed) times...no facial details...I might throw a cute pair of lips on them. ;0)

Weapons of choice: Derwent Graphite Pencils, Watercolor, Micron Pen and a White Gel Pen

And again...Scan (right) or Photo (left) ...think I'm leaning towards the scan on this one...there's such a big difference...to me anyway...

Consider Me Lovely ~ Part I

2011-10-20T10:08:00.017-04:00

Rocquelle of Consider Me Lovely...

Red is one this years Fall colors...that Rocquelle paired very nicely, with khaki trousers and a beautiful blue heel.

I like to show every part of my illustrations...so it looks like each one will get their own post. :0) Enjoy...

Weapons of choice: Derwent Graphite Pencils, Reeves Watercolor, & a Micron Pen

Here are the full length views...not sure if I prefer the scan (on the left) or the photo (right)...what do you think?

In Progress....

2011-10-04T17:07:00.010-04:00

Right now I'm working on about 4 different projects...and one includes my blogger series...YES! I'm going to keep working on this...no matter what...I'll be consistent soon enough! :0)
Next on the blog roll...are two great supporters of mine...Dominique of LipStick Manual and Rocquelle of Consider Me Lovely

I'm so thankful for their support!!

Here are a few sketches of their illustrations...please excuse the darkness from the camera phone.

Dominique of LipStick Manual

Rocquelle of Consider Me Lovely

Don't Do It!!!!

2011-09-29T12:47:00.000-04:00

We Need Your Shoes - Atlanta!!

2011-09-07T15:12:00.002-04:00

www.Show-Me-Shoes.org

*If you can't make the event donations can be taken at Shrine of Black Madonna Bookstore | 946 Ralph David Abernathy | Atlanta, GA. 30310

One more pair :0) xo

2011-09-06T09:57:00.002-04:00

Shoes, shoes and more shoes...

2011-09-02T14:11:00.006-04:00

For my girls over at Show Me Shoes <3

saw this photograph online somewhere...and I knew I eventually had to illustrate it..and here it is!! :0)

Shoes, shoes and more shoes...

It's Yours!! :0)

2011-08-31T16:12:00.004-04:00

"According to your FAITH, I will fulfill onto you"....BELIEVE, have FAITH and EXPECT it..IT'S YOURS!! xoxo

KEEP YA HEAD UP...

2011-08-26T10:19:00.005-04:00

"AFTER A HURRICANE...COMES A RAINBOW" - Katy Perry

Believe, See & Speak it!!

2011-08-09T10:30:00.002-04:00

"Give your faith a voice!" Believe it, See it & Speak it into existence! "Water your seed with positive words" & thoughts...don't let the negativity in & stay in your head or leave your mouth. xoxo

...if you've seen this on my Facebook page, here's a double dose...I feel the need to post this in more than one place...have a beautiful day!!

Reiko + Sean

2011-08-04T14:20:00.005-04:00

"I's married now!!" I'm sure had to be in Reiko's head, after her nupitals, this past weekend...you've got to take a look at the sneak peak she gave us, of her beautiful day! You also get to see how I got to be apart of their big day! ;0)

*Reiko's hair, the upper part of her dress & Sean's dreads, lift up off of the canvas!! :0)*

Thank you again Sean & Reiko for allowing me to be apart of a beautiful union!

Cirlces of Life

2011-07-18T10:26:00.009-04:00

*Water Color & Ink*

God's Favorite Shoes aka Reiko

*Pencil & WaterColor*

The Fashionista Next Door aka Eboni

*Pencil & Color Pencil*

Girl With Curves aka Tanesha

In case you missed it.... :0)

2011-07-07T11:28:00.000-04:00

My illustrations are at 19:33....I'm super proud!

Proverbs 23: 12

2011-07-06T15:26:00.002-04:00

"Apply your heart to instruction & your ears to words of knowledge."

Oscar de la Renta & Hats...

2011-06-20T14:20:00.003-04:00

I love any videos showing the process of creations & fashion.

For Father's Day...

2011-06-20T11:15:00.004-04:00

My new lovely friend & client Reiko God's Favorite Shoes had me help her on a gift for her fiance...was so happy with the finished result...I was going to use more color...but I wanted the details of the faces to stand out...so I just used a little pop...

*Derwent pencil & Prismacolor Color Pencil*

The Lord Is Trying To Tell You Something...

2011-06-06T10:37:00.004-04:00

I hear this verse of the song (from The Color Purple) played in my head often...

Reading scriptures daily, along with prayer, is part of my growing relationship with God. I'm far from perfect or a saint. I'm trying to at least get down the basic do's & don'ts still 30 years later...lol

This morning I heard the Lord speak to me, I saw it in writing as well...right at..

Proverbs 14:23 - All hard word brings a profit (to me this means not just financial profit), but mere talk leads only to poverty.

I had been in deep thought, worry, and yes some procrastination the past couple of months. This morning I got my answer loud and clear.

Barely Made it...

2011-06-02T11:49:00.005-04:00

Super sad, I just noticed that my last post was #100.

A big accomplishment for me. lol

Had to post this quote today...because things are about to change for me..."a change is ah coming"....that quote too...lol

"If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can become it" -William Arthur Ward

Show Me Shoes Greeting Cards

2011-05-12T14:17:00.000-04:00

Now available Greeting/Note Cards - Show Me Shoes Edition...to help benefit the Show Me Shoes Foundation
It was awesome to do this for Anneka & Shiv'on, the founders of the organization.
The wonderful things they have done & continue to do for young ladies in need, is incredible.

I was also a proud sponsor of the Show Me Shoes Prom Project 2011. :)

Over at my Etsy store, you can purchase your set of 6 Show Me Shows fashion cards.
Can you believe they even gave me, my own spot on their website!!

Single Ladies!

2011-05-12T12:47:00.000-04:00

I've been wanting to share this news on my blog for some time now. With a little over 2 weeks away...and with promos out on tv, it's time!

I was blessed with an awesome opportunity to freelance for the new series Single Ladies. Hopefully you'll get a chance to see my work/illustrations in some scenes. After viewing how the series was shot, I'm hoping for a close up or a good view of an illustration (or two) lol.

The series is set to premiere on VH1 on May 30th, with a 2hr event. It looks like it will be a hit for VH1 & Queen Latifah's production company, Flavor Unit Entertainment. It puts me in the mind of Girlfriends + Sex In The City + The Game lol here's a sneak peak! =0)
Hope you'll be tuning in!

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

H&M Contest!!

2011-05-12T10:25:00.000-04:00

My dear followers, I know I have been absent the last week, which trust me I'll make up for starting today...you'll get tired of me posting. To make up for getting behind here. As usual things have been extremely busy in my other work life, but I'm back. First off...I've entered myself in a pretty big contest.

I'd soooooo appreciate it if you'd go to this link...HERE
And please VOTE for me! As many times as you can & can remember to vote.
Your vote is counted by clicking on the red stars at the top, on your right.
Please share this with your family & friends via every where you can.

This is an opportunity for my work to be printed on t-shirts & sold in stores!!!!!! Did I mention H&M..yea, so please HELP me place in the top 25! So that I can then place in the top 5, which will also allow my work to be displayed in the H&M store windows, in NYC on 5th AVe!

Thank you sooooo much for your votes & support!

A Girl Can MAC....

2011-05-04T14:34:00.002-04:00

Weapons of Choice: Prismacolor Color Pencils, Micron & White Gel Pen

My Dreams will be my Reality...

2011-05-04T11:11:00.000-04:00

Vintage...

2011-05-04T09:43:00.006-04:00

I love bags of all kinds...and when I saw Reiko's bag, I drooled a lil'.
Her vintage bags are beautiful!

This illustration I tried using my Prismacolor Color Pencils....I've always been a pencil girl, before using watercolors. I love Prismacolor Pencils, they are so smooth and blend so well.

What a Pretty Mouth...

2011-05-04T09:36:00.002-04:00

Alot of people think gaps are ugly...but I don't...I wish I could find the photo that I saw, that made me sketch this...

Thank you... =0)

2011-05-02T11:17:00.003-04:00

...all for following my blog...to those that have been following for some time & to those who are new to the Fergster! Thank you for your patience & your support.

For the last couple of weeks I've been pretty busy mainting my personal life...with my full time job, getting my work outs in, just LIFE, as well as getting a schedule together for myself...so that I can continue to work on my craft, grow as an artist & be a consistent (& good) blogger...while continuing to network & reach you beautiful people.

Thank you to those that have given me tips, motivating & inspiring words. I know I could have been much further along...but it's never too late. I've had so many eye openers recently, even this morning......It starts NOW!

So look out for my blog post coming to you, for sure, on Tuesdays & Thursdays...if I am able to post on any other days...I most certainly will. =0)

Yes...

2011-04-25T14:21:00.001-04:00

(LOVE TUMBLR)

God's Favorite Shoe ~ Part 1

2011-04-21T12:23:00.011-04:00

I have been super excited to start my Blogger Series...I know this will help me grow as a Illustrator & my skills will definitely improve. Practice makes perfect right? Riiiiiight!!!!! At first I was saying Fashion Blogger series...but there are too many great bloggers out there to put under one category...for example...

A beautiful, down to earth, fashionable Lifestyle Blogger residing in good ol' Houston, TX! Reiko also known as God's Favorite Shoe <- How excellent is that name? I had the pleasure to speak to Reiko over the phone and I think I was too speechless and caught off guard. She greeted me with a exciting scream of happiness, after seeing my illustration of her. "What are you doing going to work?! You are too talented, you should be working for yourself" That will be stuck in my mind...Thank you for the motivation Reiko!! She is super sweet, kind and has an awesome spirit. I'm looking forward to seeing & hearing about her growth. She also has a awesome store with beautiful thrift finds, SFAM ; did I mention that she's from Texas (I did, didn't I?), has an adorable pup & wait until you see her finds...loving the vintage train cases... This post is part 1 of 2...I couldn't wait and show both illustrations together...lol

I've always been the type of artist that was really technical & I'm wanting to do more illustrations with facial features...the ones I have been doing lately are good, and I've been wanting to practice more on my illustrations of the body & clothes more so than the face...I had to explain to someone what the mark on the face is...for me, it's kind of like a signature, plus I didn't just want a blank head/face...I wanted some type of line(s) there. If you look at my other post Lady you can see the mark on the face as well. Many artist/illustrators do this...whether it is their signature mark or they didn't want or have time to do the face...there are some artist who don't use this. But I did!

I want to illustrate all 3...body, face & clothes...so my next post, Part deux....of God's Favorite Shoe will be more detailed... =0)

Facebook!

2011-04-12T11:50:00.003-04:00

...YES, I finally have a Facebook Page for ShandART!

it really shouldn't have taken so long...lol, but hey late is better than never...or however that saying goes. lol

...Look to the right of this blog and please like my page. =0)

Coming soon....

2011-04-11T13:39:00.001-04:00

Blogger illustrations!!!!

Show Me Shoes ~ Prom Project

2011-04-07T13:14:00.002-04:00

Have a daughter, sister, neice, cousin, friend, or neighbor that needs a prom dress?

Show Me Shoes Foundation continues their community service projects to assist young women in Kansas City, MO. and Atlanta, GA.; with the success of their annual “Show Me Shoe Drive” and “Blessings from the Sole” service projects, they will be hosting their first annual “Prom Project: The Experience” service project that provides new or lightly worn formal gowns for high school juniors and senior girls who are in need of a dress for prom.

Juniors and Seniors in need are invited to shop at no charge for one gown at the following locations:
KANSAS CITY: Saturday April 9th from 10am-2pm at Zion Grove, 2801 Swope Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64130
ATLANTA: Tuesday April 12. 2011”at Bella Vivo Salon 6p.m. - 8p.m. Bella Vivo Salon is located at 1016 Lofts Suite 3203 (10th and Howell Mill)

Girls will also receive a complimentary gift bag that may include donated services.

*Guess what will be in the gift bags, along with other goodies? An original illustration by ME! It will give the young ladies an opportunity to also own a original piece of art, heels of course!*

Clothes Hound

2011-03-30T15:53:00.008-04:00

Do you see this?

...this adorable dress, perfect for Spring!!

Oh My Word!! And these earrings!!

...these & so much more adorable & chic pieces you can get at Clothes Hound

This one stop shop boutique offers affordable high end fashion , including French Connection & Free People clothing. Gentlemen you can find great gifts for any lady in life, right here!

Clothes Hound even offers Shopping Parties! They come to you, for you and your girls at your cocktail party, wine & cheese, birthday, bachelorette, office to sorority party!

For my readers Clothes Hound is offering 20% off of your orders!! How FAB is that?! All you have to do is enter Shanda20 at checkout and you're all good to go!

Enjoy & let's look fabulous for Spring!!

Done...

2011-03-25T15:29:00.002-04:00

*I promise it didn't take me 10 days to finish...just took forever, for me to finally post it lol*

Almost done...Sea of Shoes

2011-03-15T13:09:00.004-04:00

I had to draw SeaofShoes & her Sandals! The pictures on her blog are so rich & colorful!! She has so many photos I could draw, but I loved this one, plus Spring is days away!! Yayyyy!!

"Excess Baggage"

2011-03-14T16:06:00.001-04:00

I forgot where I saw this ad...but I had to illustrate it.

Lady..

2011-03-11T14:15:00.000-05:00

Fashion Illustrations...

2011-03-11T10:14:00.003-05:00

...I love drawing...I love fashion...and since my budget didn't sometimes allow me to buy the things I wanted to buy...why not draw them...plus it's always fun!

Better...

2011-03-09T11:46:00.005-05:00

is what I strive to do with this blog. I know it will help me in many ways...kicking habits (of procrastination), to grow, network and so forth.

I did know that I wanted this blog to to help me stay on track to accomplishing my dreams and goals. Plus it was a new project for me, to get my mind off of things that were bothering me at the time I started.

I've been busy since my last post with some great blessings & opportunities that have came my way & I went after. Now I need to be more diligent about having a life, work & keeping up this blog. I need to look at this as a part of my life; for now. I don't know who reads this and how often. So I need to continue with my plans & get to skating into my bright future... =0)

Red Bows

2011-02-16T12:49:00.002-05:00

HEELS, HEELS, HEELS, HEELS!!!

Gold Red Bottoms

2011-02-16T11:04:00.004-05:00

One day I will have a endless supply of heels...but until then, I'll just have an endless supply of illustrations! =0)

Can purchase this 9x11 illustration, framed HERE

Dali

2011-01-27T10:21:00.006-05:00

I had the great pleasure to attend the final night of the Dali exhibit, here in Atlanta. Since it was open for 24 hrs, for the last night, we wanted to have some extra fun & went after midnight. There was a long line, didn't wait too long, if your a member of the High Meuseum, the lines moved fairly quickly. Even leaving after 3am, there was still a long line. They had performers outside (in the freezing cold) juggling & entertaining those in the lines.

There was even performances inside & different characters pulled from some of Dali's work walking around in various costumes. It was definitely worth the wait & cold.

Unfortunetly, I only got two pictures...

The Persistence of Memory

It was definitely motivating & inspiring. Dali had 1,000's of pieces left when he passed. He was constantly creating. He adored his wife, who was also his muse & inspiration towards many of his works.
Salvador Dali & His Wife Gala

Dali was simply a genius...loved the exhibit!

Sketch-A-Day

2011-01-06T15:42:00.000-05:00

Those Red Bottoms....

Sketch-A-Day

2011-01-05T10:42:00.004-05:00

Here are three for the past three days, even though I created them a week or two ago....

Birthday card for my Aunt.

This will also be completed with watercolor, for my sister.

This will be a completed with watercolor, for a friend.

GUESS WHAT?!

2011-01-04T12:37:00.009-05:00

I LOVE ME!!!!!

I'm so in love with the woman that I have become. I honestly didn't know when I'd be able to say that. My past has made me a better person, so many lessons learned...even from the wrongs I've done, mistakes I've made...lesson learned. Trust!

I'm excited about every single day... I look at it as being one day closer to accomplishing my goals & dreams. I look forward to seeing who & what I will be in 5, 10 years. I'm not going to let myself down.

Yes every day isn't perfect, it can be rotten as heck at times, but no matter what, I will keep my head up. Situations always improve...it may not happen overnight, but why be sad & depressed...that will only make the situation that much worse & make it feel like it's never ending. Don't stress yourself out over something that you can't change. Just do better, move forward/move on and do better in the future. It's all about how you handle yourself during those trying times. It may be hard to put a smile on your face, but once you do...you will feel better, even it's just a bit. Watch a favorite comedy, movie or tv...be around others who are positive & fun, turn off the sad songs & put on something that will make you dance!

Tough times do not last, tough (strong) people do!

HAPPY 2011!!!

2011-01-03T09:09:00.005-05:00

Ciao Everyone!!

The New Year has started & like so many of you, I am super excited about this year. I probably said this last year, & the year before. But this year, I do feel that it's going to be bigger & better than the previous ones.

I do plan to post more, I was going to say a # or how frequent, but I'm not going to do that to you or myself. I will just say more than last year. Posting now only will help me stay in touch with my readers, but also help me improve in different areas & goals that I have.

One of my favorite Bloggers Muireann aka BangsandaBun was so generous to her readers & followers for Christmas 2010, that she sent out those who wanted one, a beautiful Christmas card. It definitely made me feel closer to her...miles & miles away...in the UK! I also follow her on twitter where she allows us into her world; from becoming the next Laila Ali, to training for marathons to her trips to Paris.

She even creates awesome videos, her training, rapping...yes, she raps! With a Lovely British Accent might I add. Here's her version of Jigga Man's 99 Problems. And guess what?! Jay actually saw her video!! How great is that?!

Please visit her blog and enjoy her, she's hilarious & loves her readers!
Oh and yes that is a illustration that I did of her, to wish her a Happy New Year.
Definitely wanted to thank her so much for sending me a Christmas card, I was super excited to receive mail from Europe. I love mail, and I love Europe! lol

The Art of Giving

2010-12-13T14:16:00.002-05:00

If you are in Atlanta or near, please try to come out & support the Arts. I will have some of my pieces on display, along with several other very talented Artist.
The event is Free!

Faces...

2010-12-09T13:21:00.004-05:00

I love drawing people, faces & since my budget has been extremely tight the last few years...I love drawing fashion too.

It's kind of like I may not be able to buy this right now, but hey, I can draw it! Praying one day I'll be able to buy all of the clothes and shoes I could ever want.

I let go of fears & worries of putting my work & sketches out there for every one to see. Not every one is going to love every thing that you do. That is something that I've learned to get over.

I've been drawing my illustrations without much detail or any to the faces. I grew up drawing people & especially portraits. It was something I've just been able to do very well. (I can definitely tell I've matured, when I was younger, I wasn't even confident enough to call myself an Artist)

I don't currently own a printer/scanner, so for me, recreating illustrations for a sale, and for it to look like the particular illustration that a customer is wanting, is alot easier to do without detail to the face. It would bother the heck out of me if I didn't receate something exactly how I did it the first time, plus I want my customer to get what they think they are getting (if not more).

My original goal was to create all copies of my illustrations by hand. I love doing it, so why not. But I dearly miss drawing faces, so I'm really looking forward to getting my printer/scanner this month!! So my beautiful illustrations can have more character & personality. =0)

Kim's Hat Revisited...

2010-12-09T12:45:00.006-05:00

A friend of mine, wanted her own customized version...a full figured, illustration showing her curves, to what she looks like. So with no problem, I did this particular illustration just for her. =0)
It will mail out to Cali today! =0)

I'm still brainstorming a title for this one...this particular Fashion Illustration was originally drawn out a couple of months back, I posted it HERE.
Here is the original drawing...

We Need You!!

2010-12-08T12:11:00.003-05:00

Contact HOMESPUN Parties + Events :)

HomeSpun

2010-12-06T10:28:00.007-05:00

...one that I did for my good friend Ayesha, who is half of the amazing Homespun Parties + Events duo, for her birthday. These ladies "are like peanut butter & jelly", so what better team can you find than these two to plan your next event. The creative minds & spirits of these two is unbelievable. Just check out the wedding & reception pictures, of Ayesha's wedding. Everything you see, came from her thoughts & ideas & was literally put together by hand by herself, her mother & her family & friends (including myself) who all assisted in setting everything up for the Big Day!

I used this pic for inspiration...

It's almost here!

2010-12-03T15:47:00.007-05:00

Christmas that is...

..I've created this beauty (a flat note/greeting card) & I have more that will post by Monday.

My mom & Lipstick Manual were the first to receive thier cards from me. My mom's Lady of Christmas had a green dress, & Lipstick Journal's has a red dress with black hair...because she does. :)
If you'd like your own custom made card(s), by hand (literally, each card), jJust let me know. You can either go with what is available or give me your own vision & it will be in the mail pronto!

They make great greetings & can double as a gift. Just drop it in a 5x7 frame. Or you can tell the recipent that lol

Have a great weekend!

Fun Friday!

2010-11-12T10:39:00.002-05:00

This is too adorable & cute...The Power of Bob Marley ~ Bob Marley Chills Baby

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

Finally about to read...

2010-11-10T20:54:00.003-05:00

After all of the hype has died down...it was available at the library. There were actually 4 other copies available also.

I heard about this movie, months before it came out. Actually one of my close friends had read the book a few years ago, right after it was published (back in 2006). She had advised me to get the book and read it, promising I would love it. She was actually the one to send me a Facebook link to the Eat Pray Love Fan page earlier this year.

Before the summer, I saw the trailer and finally wanted to get the book and read it. I found a preview of the book on Google Books, and they had quite a few chapters up to read. What a great read, and I hadn't even read half the book! My plan was to read the book before seeing the movie; I have yet to see the movie. I know...super late!!

I was super excited to see it available for check out and to get it in my hands. Hopefully by the end of the year I will have seen the movie.

Brainstorming...

2010-11-09T16:42:00.006-05:00

I know my inventory in my shop is small, which is very temporary...but so far this hand print, Soul LOVE seems to be the top seller...also the watercolor/larger version
with a sell or two on ebay...hmmmmmmm.....*light bulb*

I want to learn!!

2010-11-05T12:11:00.004-04:00

This is amazing to me!! Hand made jeans by Roy Slaper for Roy Jeans...he makes every single pair by himself! Maybe I can be his apprentice lol...oh also he just started 3 years ago, out of his studio apartment in Cali....SUCCESS!!

Roy's Jeans - Video by Self Edge from Self Edge on Vimeo.

Lipstick Manual

2010-11-03T12:19:00.007-04:00

Check out Lipstick Manual a blog created by Lipstick Diva following her self discovery as she approaches a new decade in her life, new life changing events (her upcoming wedding) and as she continues to grow as a woman. Follow her blog and enjoy everything from Fashion, Self & Life Improvement info to positive and motivating words.

I check in daily and so should you, add to your blog roll.

Latest Charcoal...

2010-10-11T12:26:00.004-04:00

...I love working with Charcoals and Pastels...I found that I was pretty good with them back in high school. I did a piece of an Indian woman that was in an issue of National Geographic...gave it to my uncle, I loved that piece. That was right after he finished college. So between moving and going off to Iraq, by now...I have no idea where that piece is...wish I had at least taken a picture back then.

I some how manage to do my charcoal pieces, mainly portraits in record time. I did a charcoal of my friend Ayesha for her birthday one year...her 30th actually and I had planned to buy her somthing, but I waited until the last minute...that day...and so before I left Atlanta to head to Chattanooga, TN (about an 1 1/2hrs away) I completed a portrait of her in 2 hrs. And it came out looking just like her! I was so proud of myself...

I then did one of my little sister for her birthday...

I have a few more that I plan to do for my other friends and family...here is the latest one...can you guess who it is?

Unfinished...

2010-10-08T14:13:00.004-04:00

This image has been in my head since I saw Kim Kardashian wearing it this month.
Almost done...!

Speaking of...

2010-09-21T09:51:00.012-04:00

...The Sartorialist, earlier this year while I was visiting his blog I came across this picture...

I love the combinations in this outfit with the Fedora and the colors in the skirt. Plus, I was so ready for the summer. I played around with an illustration of the photo. Not too shabby, but could have been better had I spent more time on it. THE PHOTO ABOVE from The Sartorialist's Blog is where this Illustration originates from (just scroll down some).

A Visit From The Sartorialist!

2010-09-21T09:27:00.009-04:00

If you do not know who The Sartorialist aka Scott Shuman is, then you should head over to his blog (just click here). He became famous by capturing various, stylish & unique "street style" across the globe, through his lense and posting the pictures to his blog.

When I found out last week that he would be in Atlanta, I got super excited and knew I had to be at his exhibit. I was even willing to go by myself, which I almost did. I've been following his blog for years now and can't remember when I've seen that he's been in the south. We were not allowed to take pictures, but I did happen to get this one at the door.

The pictures were even more beautiful and amazing in person. The color and quality was great! Many people turned out...many fashionable men and women. I wish I had taken more pictures. I even bumped into a couple of acquaintances all the way down from Chattanooga, TN!

Also, check out his girlfriend Garance Dore, whose blog I also follow and have been for quite some time now. Her story is definitely inspiring, plus she's a Fashion Illustrator and one of her Illustration has been featured on the cover of Vogue UK

They are a beautiful, powerful couple!

Natural Denim

2010-09-17T11:31:00.002-04:00

Sounds much better...not a fan of the colors that I chose and I want to rework this one a little more. But I still LOVE it!!

So...

2010-09-17T11:28:00.002-04:00

I went ahead and added some ink and put this on some sturdier paper...looks pretty good. This is just a sample...I think I may do more.

"Natural" GAP

2010-09-10T11:29:00.000-04:00

Sketch A Day...

DONE!

2010-09-09T15:16:00.000-04:00

*sketch a day*

Heels - Michael Kors Unfinished Sketch

2010-08-25T17:02:00.001-04:00

Started this today, plan to finish tonight.

A Dream that one day will be Reality!

2010-08-24T16:15:00.000-04:00

TH - Miami (Sketch)

2010-08-24T15:29:00.002-04:00

CHALLENGE!!

2010-08-24T12:32:00.003-04:00

I've decided today, that I am going to Challenge myself (yet again)...I want to do better as a blogger and I want to practice my craft so that my skills will improve. So, I'm starting a Illustration Challenge...my goal is daily...at least 5 days a week. I don't have an end date for this, I'm hoping I can keep it up for at least year. I normally like to start things on Sunday's or Monday's for some reason...I don't know. I'm stepping out of the norm, and starting today...Tuesday 8/24/10. By the end of the DAY, not night, today...I will have an Illustration posted. They will be sketches, completed work, half completed...as long as I have one posted.

Okay...here goes!! *SMILE*

Ghetti Pencil Carvings

2010-08-20T15:05:00.002-04:00

BRILLIANT!!

Dreams, Life...!!!!!

2010-08-19T14:52:00.002-04:00

"this is how your whole life changes. moments like this! " -Ayesha

Working on a project...

2010-08-17T09:21:00.003-04:00

that I can not wait to share with you all and the world. I am so proud of myself and the dreams and goals I have actually took a step out on faith to accomplish. This year has been a great one...it has been a long time coming. I'm in a much better place and have learned so much about how to treat others as well as myself. I've learned to love ME!! I love my hips, my big thighs and my BIG head lol. With that, I'm pushing to my dreams! I don't want to look back and say "what if?"...I'm not perfect of course so there are some things that I am thinking hard on and praying about, to make the right decision.

I know it will all work out, how it is suppose to! :)

Chloe

2010-08-06T11:23:00.003-04:00