December 31, 2020

Happy New Year!

After an “interesting” 2020...I hope that your 2021 is amazing!

 

December 30, 2020

Faber Castell Gel Crayons Review

Check out my review of the Faber Castell Gel Crayons? 
They are unlike any crayons I’ve ever used! 



 

December 29, 2020

What are you working on?

I'm working on yo-yo's for another wall hanging. I have about 150 so far! 

 

December 26, 2020

Question for You

 Anyone used these before?? They seemed "dry" to me, but the color blended out well. My sweet 11 yrs old daughter got them for me for Christmas. 


December 20, 2020

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Not Alone


Artists are often portrayed as loners, outsiders, or not fitting into mainstream society.  Though some artists may desire to be left to their own devices, it is more the exception than the rule.  I would say most creatives desire to feel connected and that they are not alone.  Artist communities, co-ops, and organizations provide opportunities for those involved in creative pursuits.  They give a since of belonging while facilitating feedback, resources, inspiration, and often offering outlets to share one's work.  Though some will forgo "formal" groups , they will still seek out connection so
 they are not alone.  

 

Are you feeling alone?  Have those you trusted abandoned you?  Do you feel like others won't understand or accept you...so you are isolating yourself?  Whatever the reason might be for your feelings of being alone....YOU ARE NOT ALONE.  So many in this world...RIGHT NOW...are experiencing the same feelings.  They might be hurt, misunderstood, rejected, or in the midst of a struggle...just like you.  These are shared human experiences.  Around you right now are people who care about you, and desire to be there for you (even if you don't feel like there is in this moment).  If you are someone who has a personal relationship with the Lord...he is there for you in the midst of what you're going through.  In Isaiah, he tells his people "I am the Lord your God, who holds your right hand, and I tell you, "Don't be afraid. I will help you.".  Doesn't this bring a sense of reassurance to you in the midst of your struggles?  Doesn't this bring comfort to your heart, mind, and soul?  Doesn't this remind you that YOU ARE NOT ALONE?  God loves you. He cares for you.  He is with you.  

December 15, 2020

Crayola Gel Pen: Product Review

I have wanted to try gel pens for awhile now. Check out my review of Crayola's Gel Pens. 
 I'd also love to hear tips, tricks, and how you use them in your art!  Leave a comment & let me know!!

December 14, 2020

December 09, 2020

Crayola Webinar!!

Join me next week!!! I just discovered Crayola was doing these...and now I get to be a part of the fun!!!! (ps..They called me a teacher influencer...I never said that....that was their words...I'm just an art teacher walking the same road we all are!)  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X9bVOQfoTqm7G5_I5Gkpgw?platform=hootsuite&utm_SeptTW=hootsuite

December 06, 2020

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Get The Word Out!

Each Sunday I do a devotional here on my blog connecting art and faith. The rest of the week it is all art/art education.  If my Sunday posts are not your thing...please feel free to skip over them and view the posts related to art/art education.  Thank you for visiting! 


Some artists have no problem promoting their work.  Others may struggle with shameless self promotion.  Either way, it is imperative that positive information and affirmation is shared in order to promote the art and artist.  One of the best ways to do this is "word of mouth".  When someone likes your art work & believes in what you are doing...it is hard to keep them quiet (Not that you want to do that! ha ha).  They will share pictures of your work, talk about your work, and encourage everyone they meet to purchase your art.  They want others to know what they know, experience what they've experienced, and to share in the connection that they have. Even if no one else seems to care, they will continue to share because of the impact it has made on them.  

 How often do "things" speak for us without a word spoken.  Our attitude, actions, investments, relationships, entertainment, and work ethic can share more about our heart than our words ever could. We share in various forms those things we most value.  If our lives have truly been changed by the Lord....shouldn't that be evident?    Shouldn't our words and our deeds reflect the impact of his love in our life?  Not that we would be "Bible Thumping" or trying to force people to believe what we believe, but a natural byproduct of knowing God is making him known.  We are excited about the love, security, and peace that comes with that personal relationship.  It's hard not to want to share that with others.  Just like talking about our family, job, or hobbies just comes naturally, so will the impact of God in our lives. 

What keeps you from telling others about your relationship with God?   What is preventing you 
from letting others know about what he has done in your life?  

December 04, 2020

My Favorite Collaborative Winter Bulletin Board

 During a "normal" year I always do a huge collaborative bulletin board with all my students. Each class/grade level takes on a "piece" of the picture. One class did the sky, one grade level did the buildings..etc. Then they all come together into a huge display that is at the front of the school as you enter our building .
This one popped up in my Facebook memories.
One of my favorites. I do not "do" holidays in my classroom because of a deep desire to be inclusive of all my students. I had done so many BRIGHT & COLORFUL boards in the past, I really wanted to show the students that "black & white" could be beautiful. This winter board will forever hold a special place in my heart!


December 03, 2020

Un-Snow People Behavior

 I thought these works were turning out so cute! Unfortunately we won’t be able to have our finish up day because we’ve gone virtual again.