Monthly Archives: December 2011

Movies, Artists, Madness

After all your hard work entertaining, cooking and putting up with varying levels of dysfunction and joy, you’ll surely be in need of a much deserved break. Here’s a list of some of my favourite films about artists, which you may want to watch as an antidote to all the holiday excess. Be prepared to be taken on some passionate and turbulent journeys which explore the transformative power of art, and often seem to end in some form of madness. What is it with art and madness anyway? Not all of these are suitable for children, but some are definitely worth sharing with them. Happy viewing and Happy Holidays! Continue reading

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Filed under Artists, movies

Flapping Bird Ornament

The urge to decorate is at an all time high, and less is more is not everyone’s mantra. Neither is good taste. So let’s all take a deep breath, calmly walk past those cars with red nose antler combos, and find solace in the fact that it will soon be over. It’s a safe bet that a few flapping birds will not elicit any intense, negative feelings. Besides, they’ll be safely inside your home.

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Filed under Christmas, origami, ornaments

Fabergé Ornaments

Remove all thoughts of that cheesy perfume from the seventies and think eggs, exquisite, luxurious Russian made eggs. Peter Carl Fabergé was a famous Russian artist-jeweller, and the creative genius behind the House of Fabergé, makers of fine jewelry, accessories and silverware. His immense talents came to the attention of Tzar Alexander III, who appointed him goldsmith and jeweller to the Russian Imperial Court. A commission for an Imperial Easter egg soon followed, and because of its impressive design, technical innovation and craftsmanship, lead to the commission of others. These luxurious eggs were considered masterpieces made with precious metals, gem stones and enamel. Some even opened up to reveal surprises in the centre like miniature carriages or ships. Today, they are considered some of the most important art treasures ever made, and serve as the perfect inspiration for making ornaments.

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Filed under Christmas, ornaments

Splattered Greeting Cards

Most of us need a steady supply of greeting cards throughout the year for various occasions, but never as much as now. These Jackson Pollock style splatter cards are easy and fun to make, so let the assembly line begin.

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Filed under cards, Christmas, painting