A List Inspired by Tragedy: Creativity Prompt #7

"Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react."

"Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react." John Maxwell

It is clear that the past few days have be composed of some gnarly events.  We all process tragedy differently and that is ok, good even. For this week's Creativity Prompt (#7) I invite your to take a look at my response and respond in your own time and your own way.

I have been writing a lot of lists for the blogging class I teach at The Cooper Center for Creative Arts. It serves as a way to brainstorm and process information. I have seen a lot of heartfelt posts and a lot of posts using the tragedies in the news as a political sales pitch. I understand that we all grieve differently and I understand that all the Facebook posts and trending topics on Twitter are important and necessary to those doing the posting.

I wanted to respond a bit differently so I decided to create a list and jot down some of the words going through my head. I am not opposed to explaining why I picked some of the words (though they might have just came to me).  I really don't want to argue or even debate (maybe I will put up with some respectful dialog, maybe). However, I am much more interested in knowing what words my list conjures inside of you.  Share a couple below.

Holiday Countdown?Advent Calendar: Part 3

For the third part of my Holiday Countdown I am sharing some of my favorite Pinterest posts including inspiration, photography, crafts, projects, gift ideas and more.

My advent calendar will consist of 25 links, songs, tutorials, home decorating ideas, photography and artworks that inspire me. Since I started late I will share the first five today.

11. No snow for Christmas???

Source: dontcallmebetty.tumblr.com via Felicia Follum Art+ on Pinterest

No problem, just head to the beach and make this gorgeous sand tree.

12. Cute gift idea for your bestie.

Last Minute Packing List

Are you going home for the holidays? Did you save all of your packing for the last minute?  If you stress out about packing like I do, this list is for you.

My husband and I in Yellowstone, WY

I created this packing list to use for my last minute travels and I hope it comes in handy for you as well. I am a big believer in planning ahead and being organized enough to allow for creative thought (just because I believe in this does not in any way mean that I am any good at it). When my mind, desk, studio, closet or other workspace is cluttered I am forced to focus on the mess rather than what I really care about which is being creative (and to get back on topic, packing).

This past summer I had several fantastic opportunities to travel and every time I stressed over what to pack and how to pack all of my art supplies.

So here is my last minute packing list to allow stress free packing.

1. Pashmina scarf or other large warm scarf - No matter what time of year or where I am going I have either used my scaves or regretted not taking one. I have used one for everything from cute fashion accessory (they really do spiff up an simple tank top and jeans) to a blanket in the airport on the way to Haiti. If camping or in another rustic climate you can use an older scarf as a towel, skirt, bag, pillow, or table cloth.

2. Snacks – I have some pretty annoying allergies that could ruin any trip so it is nice to be prepared if I cant find food. I also get hungry in cars and like to take some healthy snacks so I am not forced to eat gas station food.  Dehydrated foods are great.  A water bottle is a must for me as well.

3. Phone and/or camera – Other electronics are included here.

Creativity Boost: #6 Upcycle

Some upcycled Lily Pad art

Does your creativity need a boost?  Even the most creative people need a little nudge sometimes.  These 40 creative prompts are designed the get your creative juices back in gear and encourage you to switch things up.

I tend to create a lot of social justice and activisty type work.  Some of my subjects can be quite heavy. For me, Upcycling offers some great opportunities to switch things up a bit and still practice daily creativity.

#6 Upcycle – find some scraps of something you plan to recycle or toss and create something functional, beautiful or new.

Upcycling has also played a role in my travels and working with people.

Here are some inspirational upcycling ideas.

Upcycled Art makes great Christmas gifts too! Perfect for the last minute and those of us on a budget.

What materials did you use? Did you come up with your own project or find one? What did you create? Tell me in the comments below!!

Holiday Countdown: 60 Days of Christmas

Here are some sets, 5 to be exact, of my 12 day countdowns for Christmas.  That's 60 days of Christmas. Can't beat that.  Keep reading for date nights, music, craft ideas and more fun winter ideas.

6. These ideas will be great for the next 5 months of winter here in Laarmaie.  12 Dates of Christmas is such a fun idea.

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Felicia Follum Art+ on Pinterest

 12 Dates of Christmas

Holiday Countdown/Advent Calendar: Part 1

I absolutely love Advent and Advent calendars. There is something beautiful about the time of year. The coming of a savior for those who share my personal Christmas beliefs as well as a time for family, sweaters, hot chocolate, scarves and winter sports for the rest of us. The season is full of joy for many.

My advent calendar will consist of 25 links, songs, tutorials, home decorating ideas, photography and artworks that inspire me. Since I started late I will share the first five today.  The fist set of five are a bit random but be sure to check back in a few days for music, gift ideas, food, and more.

1. The best way to start my 25 days of Christmas Countdown is with this super cute photo from my Pinterst page,

Source: allthebeautifulchristmas.blogspot.com via Felicia Follum Art+ on Pinterest

Creativity #5 Draw to Music You Dislike

Untitled Project Created while listening to music I like and music I dislike

Make the best with what you have. Does a family member or friend really love a genera of music you abhor? If so let them listen to the music while you respond this next creative inspiring prompt. 

These 40 creative prompts are designed the get your creative juices flowing by allowing you to detach from your daily routine whether it is writing, making art, staying at home with children or working. One way to detach is to give into to an activity that you actively avoid whether it is a show you dislike or even a specific chore. This prompt embraces of the those dislikes.

Draw to Music you Dislike – Pick a song you do not like and draw for the duration of that song. This is an exercise for the subconscious mind. Don’t try to draw the lyrics or musician. Use shapes and color to describe what you feel.

What did you create? Share it below.

Click here to see all 40 prompts.