Look out, Tweetie!

I got a little 'pounce-happy' on this background. Looks like kitty is about to get 'pounce-happy', too!

Words and Pictures

Just as a new altered page often begins with a blank background and no plan, so begins this entry. Each new page needs a source of inspiration before it can take shape—a color or a picture, or even a mood. When I sit with a book before me, I have within reach many things to stimulate my visual senses—paints, chalk, colorful patterned papers, pictures that I have collected because I found them pleasing. I can rummage in my boxes and feel soft feathers, tender dried leaves, lace, buttons and a myriad of other things that delight my fingers. Some combination of these elements ignites a spark and the page begins. It starts with a simple idea—rarely is the entire page conceived at one time. It is created layer by layer, detail by detail, a special embellishment, until the end result is satisfactory, or satisfaction ends the process. That is also how this entry began. A blank page. The colors and textures were replaced with my thoughts and words. It will be complete with an illustration, which is by nature only an embellishment of words.

Abstract ideas

My style can generally be described as vintage, romantic, Victorian. But sometimes I like to try my hand at abstract. After all, what self-respecting artist wants to become stagnant?

Using color, shape and contrast, a unique and pleasing page can result.

Some need no words:

This page was just getting started and suddenly it seemed finished:

This page is a burst of color, sparkle and glitter!

These are some of my favorites in my abstract category:

There is actually a mirror in the pupil of the large blue eye. It is really a neat effect.