Gerushia's New World

The "Almost Everyday Photo Challenge"...Day 10 ~ Self Portrait.

2012-02-10T12:31:00.000-08:00

There are days of hope and light and breath...

and

There are days of loss and darkness and uneasiness.

Hours of sunshine

Hours of shadow

A seeing-glass of truth and color and decline...

and

A shadow comforts and relieves.

Until the next "Almost Everyday Photo Challenge"

Kim
Gerushia's New World

The "Almost Everyday Photo Challenge"...Day 8 ~ Sun.

2012-02-08T16:45:00.000-08:00

A warm, spring-like day with a glaring winter's sun....

Posting these "Photo A Day Challenges" is fun, but it's hard NOT to create a proper post. A single photo seems so....hmmmmm ~ empty, I think.

Just by coincidence, I was thumbing through one of my old poetry journals and came across this ridiculous and over dramatic poem I wrote in my senior year of high school. Wouldn't you know...the poem is about the sun. Well, in my mind it was about the sun. I guess it could be about anything to anyone. It's a funny little poem and I suppose I'll share it here, as it seems to be fitting for today's photo challenge...(it's okay if you laugh, I laughed at it too).

To Fall Softly

...and with a heat and a flame orange, it lingers,

wrapped in rags and waiting to be engraved in your skin.

Save some for ...

Later

I will save it for later.

To squeeze on the shoulders

what you want.

Shoulders to ride upon

with heavy legs

and

white sand in which

to fall softly.

***********

I know, I know...can you get any more dramatic and pretentious? I was an odd sort of teenager, I suppose. But, keeping a journal with me at all times was something that came natural. I suppose it must have helped me somehow, along the way. If nothing else, it's fun to look back.

Thanks for looking back with me

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerusha's New World (The Secret Poet)

My Superbowl Sunday ~

2012-02-06T16:10:00.000-08:00

Hello There:

It is a chilly and overcast Monday...just right for February. Although, this winter has shared very few brisk days with the residents of Southern California, so, I suppose the drab and sullen gray sky should be a welcome sight. I am making an effort to welcome it, anyway!

Yesterday was "Superbowl Sunday". I don't watch football, or any sports for that matter. However, I do enjoy preparing food for the day, as my family does watch the game....if for no other reason than to keep their dad company (yep...my husband is a sports fan). So, I prepare the food and then I find myself with an entire day free, to plot and play, to stroll or relax...I did a little of this and a little of that ~

I found myself in the garden, peeking for new signs of life. Little snippets of color teasing the winter ~

Ruffles of foliage, holding the secret of a vibrant orange California Poppy ~

I found myself rearranging the treasures on my dining room hutch ~

...and admiring my newest vintage CDV...little Jennie Quigley. She was a Scottish sideshow performer ~

Jennie has a new home on the fireplace mantel...right along side a few other sideshow performers! ~

I worked in my studio a bit...building the undershape for Humpty...still a long way to go ~

I went on a search through a tool box in the garage...looking for some Humpty Eyes ~ Hmmmm, silver or copper?

I started working up some new character creations...just the very beginnings~

I even took out a spot of time to sit down and admire and read one of my favorite books..."Old Black Fly" by Jim Aylesworth and illustrated by the great Stephen Gammell. OH how I adore the art of Stephen Gammell ~

These are the best days. The Everydays. The days that find me staying home with no obligations and nowhere to be. These are the days that connect me and ground me. A peek in the garden here, an hour in the studio there. A patchwork of home, I reckon.

So...as I witnessed another day pass and am watching a new day progress, I am, again, reminding myself to take notice of the Everydays. Smells, sights, hopes. The knowledge that in order to have this ~

You have to have this ~

Until Tomorrow:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

P.S. I am beyond thrilled to tell you...I just got the word that the very first issue of "Pasticcio Panoply" is out. I am humbled to have my piece "Miss. Lilly's Roadside Motor Hotel" included in this first issue ~

P.P.S. Just so you know...I am still participating in the "Photo A Day Challenge"...but, I've decided to call it the "Almost Everyday Photo Challenge"!! It's going to be very difficult for me to post a daily photo, especially on the weekends, but I will post as often as I can.

Okay...bye bye for reals!

Sarah's Hands....Photo A Day Challenge Day 3 ~ Hands.

2012-02-03T16:58:00.000-08:00

Hands. They tell secrets. They can expose our habits and give away our age. They hold, they gesture and they speak. Some are soft and have proof of very little work. Some are rough and strong and hard-working...just like this pair of hands in the photo.

These hands belonged to my great grandmother, Sarah Elizabeth. Of course, I never met her, but I have a feeling that Sarah Elizabeth was a hard worker. Her hands tell on her. Was she a gardener? Did she work in the fields? I'm sure she cooked, chopped wood and cared for little ones. A strong, busy, hard-working woman.

Hands. They tell history. They can open doors and connect us to our past. Hands that were once tiny and newborn, soft and fresh, become a map ~ telling our journeys and travels and hard times. If we're lucky, we will live long enough to carry our journeys in our hands. To show the world that we gardened or painted or stitched.

Will my hands resemble Sarah's? If I'm blessed with a long life, I would be proud to have hands like Sarah Elizabeth's hands.

Until tomorrow:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

P.S. Obviously, I didn't take this photo myself, but I did take a photo of a photo for today's challenge. :)

P.P.S. On a whim, I decided to have a SUPERBOWL SALE in my Online Shop. Included in the sale are the last 8 originals I have from my "Connecting Spaces" show. They are straight up $50.00 each with free shipping worldwide!! They are unframed and each piece measures 4" x 6". Sale ends Sunday at midnight. Have a look if you like!

Here are the 8 pieces being offered...

"Country Adventures Of a Fashionista"

"Guardians of the Questionable Motive"

"A Simple Game"

"The Changeling Moon"

"The Uninvited"

"Sister Ophelia's Unfortunate Picnic"

"She Wore Her Heart on Her Cape"

"Lulu's Bigtop Playtime"

Thank you so much for having a look! ♥♥

Photo A Day Challenge for February...Day 2 ~ Words

2012-02-02T13:51:00.000-08:00

Simple and to the point ~

Until Tomorrow:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Photo A Day Challenge for February and a Commitment To My Blog ~

2012-02-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

Hello There:

Well, I'm back. It's been too long, much longer than I had hoped. Why is it so difficult for me to work my blog into my daily schedule?

It's certainly not because I don't have anything to talk about. I have several art shows coming up, I'm working on a sculpture...

and I have a new piece that I recently listed in my online shop. I'm very happy with the new piece and will be listing prints very soon! If you're interested in the original of this piece...you can find it ~ Here.

"Miss. Lilly's Roadside Motor Hotel"

I am so in love with the handsome "Pierrot" in this image. He is from my personal vintage photo collection and he is a recent acquisition! I adore him! He and that dandy sheep-boy have many curious and exciting journeys ahead of them!

In between working in my studio and doing my daily "stuff", my daughter and I attended John Green's tour to promote his new book "The Fault in Our Stars"...

John Green is an amazing writer and his new book is even better than his previous works. But...it's not for everyone. It's sad, beautiful, exhausting, heartbreaking, funny and even a bit depressing at times. It was an honor to meet him and his brother, Hank, and to have our books signed by both of them.

In between creating oddness in my studio and running all over Southern California for book signings, things have been quiet. I love this period of time between the New Year celebration and Easter. It's a slow and sweet time...perfect for listening to music...

Gazing at night-time skies...

and hazy winter mountains...

Losing yourself in a good puzzle...

...and surrounding yourself with snippets of inspiration...

Enjoy and appreciate the stillness.

Now...as I said previously, I have a hard time working my blog into my daily schedule. I need to make a commitment to my blog and I need something to make me come here on a daily basis. So, I've decided to commit to the "Photo A Day Challenge". Even if posting a simple photo is all I do, at least I'm visiting my blog and working it back into my schedule. For those of you who follow my blog as well as my facebook art-page and my twitter, I will make an effort to post different photos (still following the day's theme) on each of my online homes.

Here is my first photo commitment:

February Photo A Day Challenge ~ Day 1 ~ "Your View Today"...

This is my current view...a delicious pot of red tulips. I treated myself to these because they are like an early Springtime! They make me happy and they give me hope for this year's garden.

Thank you so much for stopping by and reading this scattered blog of mine. I truly appreciate your interest and am hopeful that this photo challenge will find me here each and every day.

Until tomorrow:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Celebration Deal...

2011-11-29T15:49:00.000-08:00

Wow...I bet you didn't think you'd see me back here so quickly, did you?

I am so giddy about being published in the newest issue of Pasticcio Quartz, and I want to celebrate it in some way. So...I decided to share the celebration with you.

During the holiday shopping season, all purchases from my online shop will come with a free print of "An Unexpected Visitor"...(Excluding ACEO print purchases).

My prints are super rich in color and are printed out with high quality inks on HP Premium Plus Photo Paper. The image itself measures 4" x 6", but the print comes, centered, on a full sheet of 8.5" x 11" paper, so you have ample room to mat and frame.

There may be a give-away in the near future as well, but since most of my blog friends are having a terrible time leaving comments, I don't know if I'll do the give-away here or somewhere else. I'll let you know!

Thank you so much for all the kind emails regarding my art work and the publication of my "Little Red" piece. I appreciate each and every email.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at gerushiasworld@aol.com.

Until Next Time
xoxo
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Lost in That Whirlwind of Time ~

2011-11-28T14:47:00.000-08:00

Well, here I am again, lost in that constant whirlwind of passing time. I adore my blog so very much, and even more, I love the people that I have met through my blog. Somehow, I find it difficult to keep up with my blog. I seem to be constantly in the middle of something that keeps me from blogging. I admit it...my life is a whirlwind!!

So, with all of that being said, I still refuse to give up my blog. I still have good intentions and I want to get back to journaling at least a few times a week. I do hope to see you all more often and I can't wait to get caught up on reading your blogs as well.

Time is flying crazy fast for me. It seems it was only yesterday that my garden was in bloom, sharing the scents of a warm summer morning...

Then....I closed my eyes for just a split second and this happened...

Then, another wee second, and this happened...

During these faster than the speed of light days, I have managed to accomplish a few tasks. I finally got all of my pieces from the "Connecting Spaces" show listed in my shop for the holiday shopping season. There are 13 altogether. 5 framed, original ACEOS and 8 framed (or unframed) original 4" x 6" pieces. See anything you like?

You can find my original, framed ACEOs by clicking here. You can also find all of my original 4" x 6" pieces. You can purchase them framed as they hung in the gallery, or you can purchase them unframed. Click right here to see these originals. They have all been discounted for the holidays. AND...you can also have a look at my prints.. They have been deeply discounted for the holidays as well. Simply click right here to see my prints.

Now...here's a tidbit of news that I am so happy about. My Little Red Riding Hood inspired piece "An Unexpected Visitor" was included in Pasticcio Quartz Issue 13. This artzine is so rich and delicious. Created by Sarah Fishburn and Angela Cartwright, this beautiful zine is always full of insightful articles and yummy eye candy.

Here's a sneak peek of the "Little Red Riding Hood" article...

Yep, that's my piece in the upper right hand corner. I am humbled to be included with so many great and whimsical artists in this article. Thank you Sarah and Angela for thinking of me!

This particular original piece is not being offered for sale in my shop, because my daughter has claimed it! BUT, you can purchase it in print form right here!

So....as you see, my life really is a crazy whirlwind. In between the art projects, taking care of my shop, doing my other "stuff" like cooking and taking care of my family, I've managed to accomplish a few things and still find my way back here (even though it's been over 2 months)!

I won't promise that I'll be back soon...but I WILL be back!

Until Next Time

xoxo

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Ready for Adoption ~

2011-09-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hello:

The 2011 West Coast Eisteddfod: Welsh Festival of Arts has come and gone, but will live on in memories and photos. A good time was had by all, and the opening ceremonies were beautiful.

I am thankful and humbled to have been included in the The Welsh Mythology and Legends Art Show. I created a piece specifically for the show and it was also published in the book entitled: "A Welsh Alphabet" by Lorin Morgan-Richards.

Now...it's time for the original art piece to find a good home. I have just listed "Plentyn Newid" (A Welsh Changeling Story) in my Art Shop.

Plentyn Newid is Welsh for new child. This watercolor / collage is a changeling story. A mother wakes up to find her child missing and replaced with a shriveled beast. (I left the image of the shriveled beast to your own imagination).

The canvas measures 4" x 6" and is matted and framed in an 8" x 10" frame. Included is a black, tabletop easel.

With the purchase of this piece comes a free copy of the book "A Welsh Alphabet".

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at gerushiasworld@aol.com.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

In Honor of the West Coast Welsh Festival of Arts...

2011-09-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

Good Morning:

Just a quick little post before I'm off for a weekend of Welsh goodness....art, poetry, music and interesting food! I will be attending the Welsh Mythology and Legend Art Show as well, as I am a contributing artist.

The opening ceremonies for the 2011 West Coast Eisteddfod: Welsh Festival of Arts are taking place tonight. I will be gone for the better part of the weekend, so I wanted to pop in and let you know about a little special going on in my Art Shop this weekend only...In honor of this weekend's festival, I am offering free shipping worldwide on the print version of my Welsh piece entitled: "Plentyn Newid"...(A Welsh Changeling Story). If you're interested, click HERE .

This print is vibrant and quite dramatic "in real life", but the colors just aren't true on a silly computer monitor. This is actually one of my favorite pieces, as it has all sorts of secret meanings hidden about.

Hope you have a super great weekend!
Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

A Special Birthday, a Fabulous Festival and Other Assorted Odds and Ends...

2011-09-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hello:

So glad you stopped by. I have been so very busy preparing for the Welsh Mythology and Legend Art Show, that I haven't had much time to spend on my blog.

The 2011 West Coast Eisteddfod: Welsh Festival of Arts is going to be a fantastic festival, taking place this coming weekend...September 23rd thru September 25. It's being held at the Barnsdall Art Park in Hollywood, California. For those of you who are local...stop by if you can. I'll be there on Friday evening and all day Saturday.

My art piece entitled "Plentyn Newid" will be in the Mythology and Legend Art Show ~
(Please Note: This piece is available in print form in my shop).

and I'll be hanging around enjoying the festival throughout the weekend. I'm especially looking forward to meeting Mari Lwyd ~

Ohhh....and also, all of the art pieces that make-up the Mythology and Legend art show will be in this book, available for purchase at the festival and will later be available on Amazon ~

Throughout the week, I've been busy preparing my piece for the show. Finally found a frame I'm happy enough with but still haven't managed to get a good photo. I'm sure you can get the idea, though ~

So much to keep me busy lately, and all the while, I seem to have a sick kitty. He's certainly not himself lately and I'm afraid it's something serious. I have an idea about what might be wrong, but I won't know for sure until after his vet appointment. He's oldish...but not so old for a cat ~ 12-1/2 years old ~

And, alas...during this very busy weekend, there is a birthday as well. (Which is why I won't be attending the festival on Sunday). This guy is turning 22!! ~

I am sometimes stunned and taken by surprise by life in general. Festivals, birthdays, sickness....the sands of time. It's almost as though I can literally feel the sand escaping my hands, pouring through my fingers and puddling up only to be blown away by a hot desert wind.

I try to concentrate on the here and now, holding tight to the good memories and being hopeful for the future.

So, as I am off for another busy day at the gallery, I am thankful for the opportunities that have come my way as an artist....but most of all, I am simply thankful.

Until Next Time
Kim
Gerushia's New World

P.S. My friend Shell, was kind enough to give me a special make-over before the festival. I'm so excited to show off my new look!

See You Soon:
xoxo
Kim

An Unexpected Blessing...

2011-09-12T19:17:00.000-07:00

Each and every day, I make a point of acknowledging the things I am thankful for. Some days, I shake my head in awe of my blessings ~ even when things are difficult. Even when life throws me a curve ball that knocks the breath out of me, my blessings are still apparent...

From the best seat in the house ~

...and in good company, I might add ~

I revisit my journey...my unexpected blessing ~

My humbleness and gratitude are immense ~

Honored with the support of old friends ~

best friends ~

...and the love of my family (my sons were at the opening but weren't in the photos...sneaky dogs) ~

I realized a secret dream, a little life goal that came true. Something magical and spectacular...

BUT ~

Each day is magical and spectacular. I never lose sight of that. I look closely to find natures art ~

Confetti pinks ~

Stunning coral...alive in the desert ~

Late blooming Cosmos, already offering seed for next year ~

...and peek-a-boo yellows and warm oranges, hinting at the on-coming Autumn ~

Everyday blessings. I remind myself to notice, to look, to smell.

Special days are sweet and meeting a goal is grand...BUT, look deep, because Everyday is sweet and grand.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

P.S. There were some friends that drove a long way and were accidentally not included in any photos. You know who you are and I am so thankful for your support. And to Amanda...a new generation of art lover...thank you for coming with your mom and thank you for your sweetness.

"Connecting Spaces"

2011-09-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

Well....afer much preparation, lots of worry and excitement and with a completely new body of work created over the summer ~ tonight is finally in sight. Tonight is the opening reception of "Connecting Spaces". I have 16 new pieces in the show. Along with my work, you can see the work of r. mike nichols, Noreen Ring, and Jim Behrman.

r. mike nichols is the man behind the idea of "Connecting Spaces". He saw a thread that ran through all of our work that connected us. Some color and whimsy...some surrealistic aspects. Yet, we are each completely different than one another.

Mike is a fantastic painter. Using watercolor and sometimes acrylic, he creates a bright world filled with floating men, surreal landscapes and beloved pets.

Noreen Ring creates amazing textile art quilts. They reflect a connection with her surroundings. Rolling hills, big skies, stars and moon ~ they all fit together in perfect harmony.

Jim Behrman is a master "robot creator". Wow...he captures whimsical personalities and thoughtful humor with found objects. You just need to see his work in person!

Then there's me ~ and since you're reading my blog, I'm hoping that you already know my work!

So...if your're local to the Riverside, California region and you'd like to view some fabulous art, meet some interesting folks and score some free food and drink, come on by and say hello. We would love to meet you!

I'll be back in the next few days with some photos of the event...you can be sure of that.

Until Next Time:

Kim
Gerushia's New World

And Now For The Difficult Part...

2011-08-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

As some of you know, I have been busy gathering a few older original pieces and creating lots of new pieces for the upcoming show "Connecting Spaces". I truly adore what I do. Creating the new pieces took hours and hours...days and days...months and months ~ and now the hard part begins....Framing the pieces!

I have already started the process...but still have 7 more to go. Next comes the wiring. As usual, I am pushing myself to the deadline.

When I started this project, my desk was so clean and tidy. Now....not so much...

I am enjoying the whole exciting process, but am looking forward to taking a break from the studio and putting a bit of focus back on my new Zibbet shop. Ohhh, just a little heads up ~ I'm having a sale in my shop right this very minute. Everything in the entire shop is 15% off and there is no coupon code needed. The items have already been marked down for you. Really, it's a silly sale in honor of this terribly hot weather. I think it's too hot NOT to have a sale. Stop by and see the goodies while they're marked down. I'd love to have you!

In between framing, wiring and hosting a sale in my shop...I am busily thinking about this...

and this...

Ohhh....and this too

The West Coast Welsh Festival of Arts

And...can you believe it? My art piece created for the Welsh Mythology and Legend Art Show will be included in this This Book ...

Written by Lorin Morgan-Richards and published for the Welsh Festival. It will also be offered on Amazon.com at a later date.

So...as you can see, I'm a busy gal. But, with the days getting shorter and the smell of Autumn just around the corner, I am enjoying each bit of goodness that comes my way....yep, even the framing!

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

The Winner Is...

2011-08-29T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

Well, it looks like a few more people were able to leave comments, although I did receive a number of emails from folks that weren't able to leave a comment....I don't know what else to do. I'll keep scratching at blooger to find out why this is happening. In the meantime, the winner of the give-away is Heidi.

Congratulations, Heidi. Please contact me with your print choices and your mailing address! Thanks so much for playing.

I'll be back very soon with a NON give-away post. ;)

Until next time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Okay ~ One More Time With the Give-Away...

2011-08-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

I can't believe I'm doing this again so soon. I'm trying another give-away, but it will only run from now through tomorrow evening, Sunday August 28 at 7:00 pm pacific time. The winner will be chosen at random and will be given the opportunity to choose any two (4" x 6") prints from my Zibbet shop. You don't need to have an account with Zibbet, it just happens to be the place where you can view my "inventory" of 4" x 6" prints.

The reason I'm hosting another give-away so soon after the last is because I have changed some settings on my blog. I was finally able to speak with someone at blogger that, I think, actually straightened out my situation. You see, over the last year or so, folks would come over to my blog, read it and try to leave a comment. They weren't able to leave a comment, so they weren't able to participate in my give-aways. This is really an experiment, and I'm hoping that the "comment situation" has finally been resolved. If not, my give-aways will be hosted on my facebook page from now on.

So....if you'd like to play, please leave a comment. If you are unable to leave a comment, then please...email me and let me know what your experience was when trying to use the comment form.

Keeping my fingers crossed that this works!!

xoxo
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Little Changes...

2011-08-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

There's a melancholy glow in the air this time of year. A necessary sadness between Summer and Fall, I suppose. This shift often brings change to my life. Over the years, many of the biggest changes in my life have taken place at that point between Summer and Fall, when the red-heat turns yellowy and the sky blue is clear and charged.

Honestly, I'm hopeful that this season will not bring any big changes...tiny changes are good enough for me, at least for the time being.

Looking back over the Summer, and especially the last few weeks, I can see the small changes. Good things that are appreciated and treasured....adventures and new opportunities.

Through the entire Summer, I have been creating a body of work for a group show at The Riverside Arts Project. The show will include not only my work, but the work of 3 other fantastic, local artists...

The show runs from September 6 ~ November 2, with the opening reception taking place on Friday September 9th.

All season, the show seemed like a distant dream, something that was so far away and truly out of reach. Now, with the show just around the corner, I am still busy creating and framing. This is not only a fabulous opportunity, but marks a little change as well. This show is taking me to a local level . I'm happy about that. It's important to bring art to the local community and I'm proud to be included in this group of artists.

During the last few weeks, there have been little changes all about. Junior decided to go for a new look and has acquired quite a fancy mohawk, thanks to his groomer, Londa. She dyed his mohawk doggy-purple and used him in a photo shoot. Unfortunately, by the time Junior arrived home, he was very hyper and his new do was lacking.

One of the wee changes that I have enjoyed recently is working in an art journal. When I was in high school, I carried an art journal with me everywhere I went. I doodled, drew and wrote poetry and always made sure to carry it in my bag. I truly adore what I do, but my watercolor/collage keeps me chained to a chair and hunched over a desk with my nose about an inch above my work. There's a freedom with my journal and I'm loving that...

I daydream that this little structure is my studio and I can sit quietly in a cushy chair just doodling in my journal...

Before I started working on so many new pieces for the "Connecting Spaces" show, I decided I should start fresh and I cleaned my little desk...sorted through hundreds of tiny heads and hands and all sorts of animaly paper snippets. I dusted and stacked and made everything within easy reach. Isn't it lovely? Unfortunately it looked like this for approximately 17 minutes! But, it was a good change while it lasted!

During all the busy studio days, I managed to take a bit of time out to journey to Hollywood to have my "Dancing Fiona" tattoo finished. I told you that already! But, I have a few photos that I'd like to share, as they are just fun, fun, fun. Plus....it's always good to have a look at Dan Smith. He's such a sweetheart...

Here we are talking about the composition of the new addition...

I'm just sharing this photo with you simply because it's so darn cute...

I love these next two photos because they really give you a good idea of the outlining process and that little bit of swelling that takes place...

Visiting High Voltage Tattoo is always a fabulous journey. Honestly, the folks that work there are so kind and extremely patient. There are people in and out of that shop in a constant flow. Mostly just looking and hoping to catch a glimpse of someone they might recognize from the show L.A. Ink. They are always so sweet about taking photos with the customers. Greg Siebel (one of the shop managers) is such a nice guy and he's always willing to stop for a photo. This is Greg with my daughter..

(Thanks to Rochelle Rosenkild for all the fantastic High Voltage photos).

As always, the journey to High Voltage came to an end and it was back to work, as usual. But...it's great to have the photos (and the new addition of Sweet Peas to my tattoo). I'm more than fairly sure I'll be journeying back to HVT again!

So....looking back over the last few weeks, I see some small changes, opportunities and fun times. Through it all, little by little, day by day....the air is changing. Soon, the leaves will be changing as well. I appreciate all these little changes and happenings, even through the oncoming melancholy that the changing season will bring. I can smell the change in the air. And....you know, melancholy isn't always bad. It's a sort of sadness but not a grief or painful sadness...just a little tickle on the heart. I'm okay with that.

Now, I am off to the studio. I will continue to create new pieces until I run out of time, I reckon! Would you like to see my two newest pieces?

This piece is called "Guardians of the Questionable Motive" and can be found in print form in my Zibbet shop.

(Basically...the two little boys sitting on the steps are up to no good. The "guardians" (in the background) are there to make sure that the wee boys carry out their dastardly plan).

This piece is entitled "The Haunting of La Llorona" and it can also be found in print form in my Zibbet shop ~

Of all the little pieces I have created over the years....this one may be my favorite. It is darker than usual and not whimsical at all. I love the legend of La Llorona and it's quite prevalent throughout this region. I also adore the fact that the "weeping woman" is my daughter. She is a fantastic model and always knows exactly what I need. I hope you like this new piece as well, as it is a bit darker than my usual odd and whimsical art.

If you are interested in either of these pieces in print form and you don't have a zibbet account, just give me a holler.

Okay, I'm off. Off to work I go.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

The Winner Is...

2011-08-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

Good Morning:

I'm a day late announcing the winner, as I had quite a dinner fiasco last night and wasn't able to get to my blog. It's a long story...but it involved a spiral ham gone bad (very bad), 3 trips to the store (all to pick up items that I forgot) and finally serving dinner at 9:00 p.m.!

Anyway...as you can see, again, this give-away wasn't very successful. I received many emails from folks that weren't able to leave a comment. I can also see through my stat counter that many people tried to leave a comment and they weren't able to do so. Until blogger gets this issue fixed, I reckon I'll continue having small give-aways here occasionally, but I'll host the majority of my give-aways on my facebook fanpage. If you like taking part in my give-aways and you have a facebook, you can pop over and "like" my page by clicking HERE. This will allow you to keep up with not only my give-aways, but my daily comings and goings and my art show schedules.

Okay, the winner is comment #4 ~ andrea littlebighead, chosen at random by my daughter. Congratulations Andrea and thanks so much for playing! I will contact you for your address.

I'll be back soon with a new post and I'll show you a couple of new pieces I've finished that will be included in my show in September.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Gonna Try This Again ~ Time For a Give-Away.

2011-08-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

I haven't had a give-away on my blog for such a long time. The last few times I hosted a give-away, they weren't successful, as none of my typepad friends were able to leave comments. This has been a glitch with Blogger for well over a year now. So, I've been hosting my give-aways on my Facebook Art Page.

I really love blogging and I adore all the friends I've made through my blog....so, I'm going to host another give-away here on my blog. I'll give it a whirl one more time.

This particular give-away is for my newest print set from my "fairy tales and nursery rhymes" series. The winner will receive a 4" x 6" print of ~

"An Unexpected Visitor" (Based on Little Red Riding Hood)

...and "A Simple Game" (Based on Little-Bo-Peep)

PLEASE NOTE: This print is very vibrant in real life. It is not bleached out as it shows on the monitor..

I'm so hoping that all of my blog friends will be able to leave a comment this time. If not, I'm afraid I'll have to continue my give-aways through Facebook and Twitter. I just feel more "connected" here.

So....all you need to do to enter is leave a comment. The give-away will end Sunday, August 21st at 6:00 p.m. Pacific time. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced here on Sunday night.

Thank you so much for playing with me!

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Busy Week and More To Come...(Updated)

2011-08-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

I don't like being away from my blog for such long periods of time. My schedule is crazy...in a good way, but still crazy. I have been locked away in my studio, painting, composing and creating little pieces for my upcoming show in Sept. I need 30 finished and framed pieces by the end of August. I have 20 right now...so I will be a very busy gal over the next several weeks.

In the last few days, I have managed to get 2 new pieces done. I can't offer the originals in my zibbet shop because the originals are being held back for the show. But, I did list print versions of the two newest piece ~

"Country Adventures of a Fashionista"

and...a piece that I just finished a few hours ago inspired by Little-Bo-Peep, entitled:

"A Simple Game"

I'm also offering a new print set from my "fairy tales and nursery rhymes" series. I guess to some folks, these watercolor/collages are creepy...but to me, well...I think this set would be fabulous hanging in a child's room.

"The Littles"

PLEASE NOTE: In celebration of my daughter's birthday, I am having a 15% off sale in my zibbet shop. No need for a coupon code as the price discount has already been noted. This sale will start Sunday, August 14th and run through Thursday, August 18th. This sale includes everything in my shop....even the new prints. Hooray for birthdays!!

In the midst of my whirlwind schedule, I did find time to take a day off and journey to High Voltage Tattoo with my fabulous, wonderful, and always heartful friend, Shell. My daughter and Shell's son came along as well.

I finally finished off my "Dancing Fiona" tattoo with Dan Smith...keep in mind, these photos were taken just after the tattoo was finished, so it's still ooey-gooey fresh...I had Sweet Peas added to frame out Fiona ~

We had a fantstic time at High Voltage Tattoo. We shopped at Wonderland Gallery and even made a quick stop at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. I have so many photos to share, but I haven't had a chance to go through all of them yet. Like I said...my schedule is CRAZY right now.

I will be back as soon as possible to share some fun photos. I'm getting so excited to finish all this work so I can start getting ready for all sorts of Autumn goodness and Halloween planning! Are you detecting just a teeny tiny hint of Fall in the air? I have been lately...

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

A Fiery Tornado of Doubt...

2011-07-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

Wow...what a crazy week this has been. And I don't mean that in a good way. But, all is well for now.

I'm going to start off by sharing something good that happened this week, because I find it so ironic that after such a terrible cluster of days, it ended with this one good thing....

After years of creating art and selling online, marketing, tweeting, facebooking and blogging to the world, I was finally recognized on a local level. That's cool, right? I was the featured artist in the local Inland Empire newspaper "The Press Enterprise". The article is online and in the print version as well. It was funny seeing a photo of myself in newsprint. I don't think I've been in "the paper" since I was a Brownie. Would you like to read about me from a local standpoint? Here it is ~ Press Enterprise Artist Spotlight. So very nice to be recognized locally.

Okay...I don't usually blog about bad stuff. I don't think most people go to artist's blogs to read about the ugly world...they probably get enough of that in real life. But, in all fairness to my readers, I think sometimes you need to be honest. Not graphic, but honest....

I try with all my might and heart to be positive, even in the worst conditions. For the most part, I succeed. But, there are times when I want to scream into the sky and shake my fist and say "Why me, Lord? Why me"? I'm fearful and find myself whirling in a fiery tornado of doubt. Searching for faith and searching for my heart. The most difficult thing is that all my doubts, all my fears, all of the tears and gnashing are because of the one thing in this world that I loathe the most.....money. Yep...I loathe it. I am horrified at what it can do TO people rather than FOR them. I resent the fact that I have to rely on something so potentially poison to keep food on the table. To keep the water flowing through my faucets, to keep the lights shining in my home.

When the economy fell apart, we were already on our way down, as we were overwhelmed with medical expenses for my mom. By the time she passed away, the economy was down the drain and we went right along with it. My husband had a job change, we lost our health insurance, we struggled to keep our home, one of our vehicles took it's final breath etc....You know the story, because unfortunately, our story is common now. It saddens me everyday to read about folks that have lost their homes, lost their jobs. The biggest loss can sometimes be the loss of hope.

So...with all of that said, I still love my life. Things are a bit better now, but honestly, we still get walloped if any small, unexpected expense occurs. We still struggle to make ends meet, we still live hand to mouth.

Here's what I do...on a daily basis. I force myself to recognize 3 small things I am grateful for and really think about those things. It clears my mind and allows me to focus on the good stuff rather than the horrific turn our lives have taken. I go outside and purposefully look for tiny little things to be thankful for. I look around my home at the history here...inherited family clocks, my grandma's old coffee grinder, photos of the kids on Halloween. These little things can't be taken out of your heart or your gut.

There are people out there with a whole lot of power. People who can take your home away from you. They can take your car away from you. They can turn off your water, shut down your electricity and steal your hope. They can cause you to cry buckets full of tears, argue with your husband and look at yourself in the mirror with a dread and a self-hate that you hardly recognize. But....they can't steal the little things that you keep safely tucked away inside a quiet spot in your heart. Your history, your kids, your memories of childbirth, past friendships, the smell of a rose, buzzing bees.

You have to own something. You have to keep hold of the things that no one else can take. Hold them tight and be grateful and fully aware of all the little things each and everyday. It's the "Everydays" in our lives that matter the most.

There will always be fear and horror and dread and poison in this world. Without a doubt, each and every one of us will have a time when these horrors and poisons will seep into our lives on a personal basis. Get ahold of your little things now. Live your "Everydays" now. It's never too early or too late to start.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Fabulous Sale at Gerushia's New World

2011-07-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

Just a quick little blurb on my blog today. I'm busy in my studio....working on canvas prep today. But, I wanted to pop in and let you know that Gerushia is having a sale in her new zibbet shop this week. The sale runs today thru Friday, July 29th. 20% off everything in the shop! Simply use coupon code ZIBBETYDODAH at checkout.

The sale includes all listed originals...including this piece:

"An Unexpected Visitor"

...and this piece:

"The Good Mourning Mice"

Lots of 4" x 6" prints...including:

"The Uninvited"

...and this piece:

"The Changeling Moon"

I've even included a print version of my Welsh Festival of Arts piece:

"Plentyn Newid"

There are a few ACEO originals to choose from:

"Pansy's Dancer"

"Guardian of the Orphan's Moon"

...and lots of ACEO prints as well:

"Guardian of the Circus Diver'

"The Reader"

Also....I've added a small section of print sets ~ pieces that were made to go together or pieces that fit well together as a set. Here's my favorite set:

"Dancing Fiona and Little Bertie in the Garden"

"Dancing Fiona"

"Little Bertie in the Garden"

The "Fiona and Bertie" print set is being offered because so many customers have purchased them together, to be hung as a set. Often times these two pieces end up in a baby nursery or a child's room. I figured, I'd give the option to purchase them as a set and save the customer a couple of dollars too.

So...if you're considering buying a piece of my art...maybe for yourself, maybe as a gift ~ now is the perfect time. And...while you're browsing my shop, have a look around zibbet. It's easy and fun to use with lots of great art and other handmade items as well.

Thank you so much for having a look. If you have any questions, as always, feel free to leave a comment or email me.

Okay....back to the studio!

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Preparing for 2 Big Art Shows and some Zibbety Goodness Too!

2011-07-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

Well....Hello There:

How are you? I hope you are all doing well and enjoying the pleasures of summer. I have been ever so busy with art show preparations and online shop work. Normally, my summer posts are about gardening and all sorts of summery goodness, but this summer has found me so busy with creating many new pieces for upcoming shows that I've had very little time to "stop and smell the roses". In fact, I've spent most of the summer locked away in my studio.

I have oodles of news and fun stuff to share and I'll share some today....

First, let me say that I am officially committed to Zibbet as my new online selling venue. I left Etsy months ago...gave Big Cartel a whirl (my little art simply got lost on Big Cartel), and now I am blissfully happy with Zibbet. They are very much like Etsy was early on. Great community feel, fantastic support and a heavy presence on twitter. This is where I'll stay as I am ordering new business cards for my upcoming shows and I must commit to somewhere. So....Zibbet it is. If you are an arty pal and are looking for a new "home", give Zibbet a look, you might like what you see. I have a feeling that they are going to explode in popularity within the next year!

I have 2 shops on Zibbet, actually. Click HERE to have a look at my art shop ~ Gerushia's New World. Click HERE to have a look at my vintage digital download shop ~ Hands of Time. I will be adding lots more vintage images over the next week.

Okay...so one of the shows I've been invited to participate in is The 2011 West Coast Welsh Festival of Arts ~ Mythology and Legend Art Show...wow, that's a mouthful! It's being held at the Barnsdall Art Park in Hollywood, California September 23 - 25. Not only will my piece be in the art show, but it will be published in the book "A Welsh Alphabet", printed by A Raven Above Press. Each artist was asked to choose an alphabet from the book. Each alphabet has a short poem attached to it and our art pieces reflect that poem.

I chose "P" for Plentyn Newid. Plentyn Newid translates to New Child in English...so my piece is a changeling story.

Here is the poem:

P is for Plentyn Newid

who steal children away as they sleep.

Quickly replacing it with an ugly, shriveled beast

That has made many a poor mother weep.

The "Welsh Alphabet Book" was written by Lorin Morgan-Richards.

"Plentyn Newid"

As you can see, I chose not to show an actual ugly, shriveled beast, as I wanted to leave that to your imagination. I'm happy with the outcome and I think it conveys the overall feeling of a changeling story.

I have another show coming up in early September. This is the show that has kept me trapped in the studio. But...I mean that in a good way. I need to have 30 pieces finished and framed by the end of August. Needless to say, I am slightly panicked but I'm pacing myself and am hopeful to meet the deadline. I'll be back in a few weeks to fill you in on all the details of this show. It's very exciting!!

I'm also keeping up with new inventory for my shop as well. Here is my newest piece:

"Lulu's Big Top Playtime"

The original "Lulu's Big Top Playtime" can be found in my shop ~ Gerushia's New World - Original Art as well as a print version. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

I should also mention that for all my arty blog friends that aren't on Blogger, I know you're having an impossible time leaving comments...so if you want to leave a comment for me, you may have to do it through email. I so wish Blogger could get this situation fixed.

So...there you have it. I really don't have any pretty garden photos to share or photos of delicious baked goods to post. This summer has been so very busy with my art and planning for the book and the shows...I just haven't had the time to really enjoy the season. Well...not in the usual way. I am enjoying my work and the excitement that comes along with being asked to contribute my work to these amazing shows! I am humbled beyond belief...

Thank you so much for stopping by and reading about my busy summer days (and nights)...

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

An Unexpected Visitor...

2011-06-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had so much to do that you end up by doing nothing? That's what I've been doing....nothing. Mainly because I don't know where to start. Isn't that a funny and curious thing? I have an art piece due on July 1st....haven't even started it. I have huge areas of bareness in my garden. They need to be filled with color and life...haven't planted a thing. Well, the list goes on and on.

Poor Juniorbug needs to go to the groomer...he's a silly mess...

Although my garden is still suffering and in need of more nurturing, I am seeing little signs of life. Plants are blooming this year that haven't bloomed since "My Great Depression of 2008"....

Vibrant pink Four O' Clocks ~

Soft and velvety Lamb's Ear ~

Roses, Salvia and Toadflax ~

Secret prettiness that stayed hidden in the soil until now ~

My little plum tree has managed to offer a few plums this year...

Even though my white picket fence needs re-painting...

it is always a welcome sight to see my purple Sweet Peas winding themselves around the picket fence...chipping paint and all...

My front path is coming along nicely. With the cooler than usual weather we've been having in Southern California, my Impatiens are happily blooming...

Over the last couple of months, there have been some sad times. In April, we finally had to say our last good-byes to our sweet, 15 year old Labrador Retriever, Homer...

She was a strong and loyal part of our family with an amazing spirit and a giving heart. We miss her terribly...

On the lighter side....just a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet with a childhood friend...

We met when we were 3 or 4 years old. We lived next door to each other all of our growing up years. Like so many people, we lost touch and hadn't seen each other in over 20 years. Thanks to facebook, we re-connected and met for a 5 hour lunch! Can you believe that? I don't recall ever sitting in a restaurant for 5 hours just talking. We still have a lot to catch up on! And we will.

During all my "doing nothingness", I have managed to get a few art pieces done. This piece in particular is by far my favorite...maybe my favorite ever!

"An Unexpected Visitor"

As you can see, it is based on "Little Red Riding Hood". My intention was to hold this piece back for my "Connecting Spaces" show at The Riverside Arts Project in September. But....I have listed the original in my art shop for a few days. If you have any questions regarding this piece, feel free to email me. If you like the piece, but don't want to invest in the original, I am offering a print version as well.

Ohhh....I almost forgot. Look what I found in my garden! It's the teeniest, tiniest snail I've ever seen...

Can you believe that? Nature is truly breathtaking!

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

...and, we have a new title ~

2011-05-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

My previous post asked for help in naming this "Queen of Hearts" piece. After taking into consideration the titles submitted here on my blog, on both my facebook pages and my twitter, I have decided to call this piece:

"She Wore Her Heart on Her Cape". This title was given to me by Rochelle Rosenkild. (Thanks Shell)!

The Queen is now listed in my Shop in a print version. I have only 5 of them at this time. The original is being held back for my show in September called "Connecting Spaces". I need approximately 20 original pieces for that show, so for now, I am hoarding my originals!

This print is a 4" x 6" with a nice wide border, ready to frame.

If you have any questions, please just give me a holler.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Help Me Title This Piece ~

2011-05-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

I finished my newest piece and cannot come up with a title! Normally, I create my own characters with a back story, but this collage is just a fun, nonsensical piece that pulled from Alice's "Queen of Hearts". I think because I didn't fully create the character, I can't title it. I need to get it listed in my Shop, but can't really do so until it has a name.

Please, join in to help me create a title. If I choose your title, I will send you a free print of this piece.

I'll be back soon with some gardeny photos.

Thanks so much:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

"The Good Mourning Mice".

2011-05-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

I have been buzzing around like a busy bee for the last few days. I have so many art pieces to finish and frame between now and the beginning of September. Actually, about 20 pieces in all!! In September, I'll have the honor of being included in a show called "Connecting Spaces", with 3 other artists . Due to the fact that there are only 4 of us in all, we each need to be prepared to have a huge amount of framed pieces available. So...I am working away at creating my originals for the show. I can't offer the originals in my shop, but I am offering them in print form. After the show, I'll be able to loosen up and list my originals!

Here's my newest piece entitled "The Good Mourning Mice" ~

The title reflects the fact that the bodies that I used in this collage are from one of my vintage "mourning photos". I have quite a little collection of those photos and I really wanted to use one. Although the subject matter of the piece is a bit sad, I wanted to give it a children's book feel. I hope I've accomplished that! Anyway, you can find this piece in print form here. I've already sold a few and I must say, they look very nice printed out on the Hewlett Packard Premium Plus Photo Paper.

Aside from all the arty business, I've also opted to open a second shop. This one will be specifically for vintage digital downloads. You can find the new shop right here!

I have so, so many vintage photos and I decided it was time to share some of the images with other artists. These downloads are fabulous for collage/mixed media, altered art, greeting cards and even scrapbooking. Within 24 hours or less from the time of payment, I will send you, in email, a high resolution jpeg which you can print out however you like. Isn't that magical? Here's one of my favorite, dreamy downloads ~

This photo and many, many others can be found at Gerushia's Digital Downloads. I will be adding new imagess all the time, so check back often.

Well, I am out of breath and still need to run to the grocery, dead-head the roses and work on another new piece. Hmmmm...this one will be based on "The Queen of Hearts"....

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Busy in a Good Way ~

2011-03-31T13:26:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I've visited my blog. I've been very busy for the last few months...busy in a good way. Although, I do admit, my blog has left me a bit frustrated, as my typepad friends have such a hard time leaving comments. I've tried to "fix" the problem, I've checked my settings and so on....but so far, I can't seem to get to the bottom of the problem. So...for all of my typepad friends, I truly appreciate the effort you've put into leaving comments. I know it takes a long time.

Now...on to all the goodness ~

My friend and artist, Rochelle Rosenkild, has started a project called "Dragons for Nathan". Nathan Lev is a 7 year old boy that adores dragons...all things dragony. He loves to draw them as well as collect dragon art. He is also a very sick little boy. Nathan has Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Through "Dragons for Nathan", it is our hope that we can collect oodles of small format dragon art to be delivered to Nathan within the next month or so. We are inviting any artist that would like to participate, to create a small format piece of dragon art. Some artists have chosen to do ACEO size (2.5" x 3.5"), and some artists are doing pieces a bit bigger. We even have a kind gentleman that decided to create his dragon art in the form of a poem.

If you are interested in participating in "Dragons for Nathan", please feel free to contact me, Kimberly Wlassak, at gerushiasworld@aol.com. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

If you would like to read more about Nathan...http://www.nathanlev.com/.

Here is my dragony piece for Nathan. It was a collaboration between my husband, my daughter and myself. My husband designed the dragon, my daughter did the modeling for the image of the dragon slayer, and I colored the dragon and did all the collage elements...

"Nathan's Dragon"

For those of you who would like to contribute to "Dragons for Nathan", but may not want to create a piece of dragon art, "Nathan's Dragon" can be purchased in print form at Gerushia's New World. 50% of all sales will be donated to Nathan and his family to help them through this very difficult time.

This project is a labor of love, and Rochelle has put her heart and soul into creating and running it. We can't cure cancer, we can't make it go away, but in this small and dragony way, we may be able to bring a smile to Nathan while he's going through treatment.

Along with my work for "Dragons for Nathan", I have been busy with all sorts of upcoming art projects. Several months ago, I was invited to participate in The 2011 West Coast Eisteddfod: Welsh Festival of Arts. Purely by coincidence, I have been fascinated with Welsh mythology and legend since I was a young girl, so participating in this Welsh Festival of Arts is quite an honor for me. I will have work in the Mythology and Legend art show, as well as a piece published in "A Welsh Alphabet" by Lorin Morgan-Richards. I am over the moon excited about the festival as a whole. I am happy that I still have many months to work on my piece...the festival isn't until September 23 - 25.

Being a part of the festival also forced me to finally write my "artist's bio" and have a decent photo snapped. I do not like having my picture taken, and this was a difficult task to get through. Thank goodness that my daughter is a fabulous photographer AND a patient person too!!

My Bio Photo

Looks like I have a busy September. The first Friday in September is the opening reception for the show "Connected Spaces". There is still a humongous amount of work to be done between now and then, but I have to keep things in perspective, or I will find myself overwhelmed! The show will highlight my work, as well as 3 other artists, and it will take place at The Riverside Arts Project.

I have a few other bits and pieces of news, but that can wait for another time.

In between arty projects, I have found myself craving time in my garden. I planted Sweet Pea seeds a few days ago and am waiting anxiously to see my little sprouts pop through the soil. While waiting for this years garden bounty, I am enjoying bouquets of my current blooms ~

I adore a sunny bouquet of Nasturtiums ~

Ohhh, and yesterday evening, I heard the first Oriole of the season. He was chittering and flitting all around my garden~

This photo is actually from a couple of seasons ago, but this is just what my Oriole looked like last night. The males are such a bright, beautiful orangey color. The females are more of a drab yellow, but beautiful as well. The pair that are now here, will stay here at my feeders, throughout the entire season. By mid to late summer, they will introduce a youngster or two. Nature is amazing, isn't it?

Recently, I've re-discovered the joy of keeping an art journal ~

Keeping an art and poetry journal was something that I did all through high school and into my 20s. But, life changes and moves onward...marriage and kids and all of that kind of goodness. Journals can sometimes get put away for a time, but not forever. Now, I'm journaling again ~

"In the Beginning"

"Lollianna"

So fun to just open a page and draw whatever comes to mind at that moment. No planning, really, no thinking ahead, just doodling!

Ohhh...and my daughter and I have been eating so healthy since the New Year. I am ever so thankful that she is a fabulous cook. Have a look at these delicious low-calorie Margherita Pizzas ~

The pizza crust is whole wheat, low calorie pita bread. The sauce is a simple homemade tomato sauce. My daughter created the recipe and we have been feasting on these pizzas once a week!

I know this blog post is so scattered. Jumping from art shows to journaling and to pizza feasts! I had so much to tell you, because we haven't talked in so long!

I won't say that I'll be back again soon, because it seems that every time I do say that, I'm gone for months. I'll just say..."thank you". Thank you for stopping by and reading about my world.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

P.S. If you have any questions about the "Dragons for Nathan" project, please do not hesitate to email me.

And The Winner Is...

2011-02-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

I'm am terribly sorry that it's taken me so long to get back to announce the winner of the vintage photo give-away. This is the 2nd give-away I've hosted that has been overcome with problems. For some reason, none of my blog friends from Typepad were able to leave comments. I thought I had the problem fixed, as I went 'round and 'round with blogger about the situation at the last give-away.

Anyway....the number chosen was 5 ~ Amy!

I'll contact Amy through email and let her know that she is the winner of that fabulous vintage photo.

I have lots of news to share with you....all of it good!! Yay! But, I'm off for a day of errands and photo snapping.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Time for a give-away...

2011-01-16T17:37:00.000-08:00

Hello There:

As most of you know, I have a large collection of vintage photos. I was having a look through my photos this weekend and came across this lovely, sepia tone folder photo of a handsome young man playing violin. I would guess it was snapped somewhere around 1910. I have several original copies of this photo. So...I thought I would share some of this vintage, violin goodness with my blog friends by hosting a give-away.

The brown photo folder measures approximately 10-1/2" x 8-1/4" when closed.

Included in the give-away is also a 5" x 7" print of my watercolor/collage piece entitled: "June Plays", from the "Eyes of June" series. If you'd like to read more about June and her Hollywood story, please click HERE.

"June Plays"

All you have to do is leave a comment. On Monday, January 31 I will call upon my trusy "randomizer" to pick a winning number from the comments column. I will contact the winner after the selection has been made.

I am hopeful that this give-away will run smoothly. The last give-away I hosted was glitchy, as none of my typepad pals were able to leave comments.

Thank you ever so much for playing along.

Until January 23rd:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

...and through it all, she danced ~

2011-01-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

May I introduce you to "Dancing Fiona"?

She is ever so strong and always willing to dance.

Even when times are difficult and tragedy has struck, Fiona keeps her heart soft and her feet moving.

"Dancing Fiona" can be found in a 4" x 6" print version in Gerushia's Big Cartel.

Thank you so much for having a look. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to either email me or leave a question in the comments section below.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

A New Year, A Big (Cartel) Change...

2011-01-12T21:45:00.000-08:00

Well...the new year has brought around an unexpected change. It's a good change, I think. It's something that needed to be done....I have parted ways with Etsy. I had been with them since 2006 and they were a good place to be. I love Etsy. But, it was time I found my way outside of the security and familiarity that Etsy blanketed me with. After alot of thought and heartfelt contemplating, I have decided to open a new shop with Big Cartel. It will take alot more marketing on my part, but I am very happy with my new shop.

So...as of a few days ago, Gerushia's New World can be found HERE. I am still loading new inventory daily and am in the process of making several new pieces as well. My two newest prints...

"An Opossum's Blessing" ~

and "The Reader" ~

are both already in the shop, along with alot of prints and some originals as well. If you've never had a look at Big Cartel...give it a whirl. It's a fun marketplace with a huge variety of goodies to look at.

To celebrate the opening of Gerushia's new shop, I am offering a coupon code. When you purchase, be sure you include the code "HeartTinyArt" when checking out. You will receive an automatic 20% off your entire purchase.

Thank you so much for all the support you've given me through the years. It never goes unappreciated.

So...if you have a chance to stop by the new place, let me know what you think.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Little Blossoms of Hope

2011-01-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been following my blog from the beginning...way back to my old Garden Painter Art days, you know that I have had a series of challenges in my life. In 2003 my dad passed away here at my home, on hospice. Soon after, my mom fell ill with a rare disease. Her sickness was a long and drawn out "process" which ended in her passing away at a Board and Care in June of 2009. During the time that my mom was sick, my family fell into terribe financial troubles due to her medical costs. I fell into a terrible depression that lasted several years. I felt dead. I had no desire or hope and I found myself, basically, waiting around to die. I stopped creating, I stopped laughing and I stopped gardening. I found that without hope, you can die inside.

Over the course of the last few years, I've had alot of time to think and put things in perspective. Even now, things are sometimes difficult, we're still struggling to get our finances in some sort of order. Some days are better than others...BUT, I do have better days now.

Little blossoms of hope ~

You see, where my beautiful garden once lived ~

and gave a colorful treat to the eye ~

and a pitter-patter to my heart ~

Is now home to an abandoned ~

tangled ~

webby mess ~

It's coming up on three years now since I turned my back on my garden. Now, I'm finding that my garden refuses to turn her back on me. She is much more loyal to me than I have been to her.

A couple of weeks ago, I was looking outside my window. In all the abandoned, tangled and webby chaos, I saw just the tiniest hint of pink. On closer inspection, I found that there were several fresh beginnings of Pink Salvia coming up. What??? My Salvia died out in the Autumn of 2007, along with everything else. Now, three years later, these little pops of pink hope are making their way out of long dormant seeds.

My loyal and strong Nasturtiums refused to give up...even when I wanted to give up ~

Secrets sparks of red here and there ~

I've discovered something incredible...I want to live again ~

I want life in my garden again ~

I want to laugh with Shell and "Dippy" ~

and eat Firecracker Chocolate ~

So...I made a promise to my garden and a promise to my family ~ I will live again.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Everyday Gifts...

2010-12-12T12:42:00.000-08:00

Everywhere, everyday, there are gifts. Sometimes big, sometimes small...but they are always there. Sometimes you receive a gift and sometimes you give a gift...and sometimes, giving IS the gift.

The gift of color ~

Reds...

and yellows...

With the passing of time, the jewel-like leaves will wither and fall to the ground ~

only to reveal another gift ~

The structure and bones and life-giver to the leaves ~

Gifts of anticipation ~

Gifts of smell and taste. Homemade goodness. Cinnamon rolls my daughter made for my birthday ~

The gift of memories...of passing time ~

Small gifts ~

Spicy gifts ~

The gift of friendship ~

and common interests ~

The gift of creating ~

The gift of giving ~

The gift of meeting new people ~

and making new friends ~

The gift of Art

There are gifts that warm the heart ~

and excite the eye ~

The gift of simple man-made light ~

and vibrant God given light ~

from Heaven above ~

The gift of Johnny Appleseed skies on a warm December eve ~

Gifts. Big and small. They are everywhere in our Everyday.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

"Visiting"

2010-12-02T09:32:00.000-08:00

Well...I can hardly believe it. I managed to finish a new piece in the midst of my Christmas decorating frenzy. I'm almost impressed with myself!!

The new piece is entitled "Visiting" and will be listed in Gerushia's Etsy Shop tonight at 7:00 pm pacific time. Normally, my 4" x 6" pieces come along with a story...and I did write a story for this piece, but I'm not going to include it. I want everyone to have their own take on this one. However, I will say that in my story, the girl on the bench is named : Fanny Wenell Blanchard. Look closely and you'll understand!!

I hope you like this new piece, as it has some elements that are meaningful to me. I hope you enjoy looking and wondering and making up your own story.

Please note: I must give a photo credit to Chantal Menard for the gorgeous image of the headstone.

Thank you ever so much for stopping by.

Until Next Time:

Kim

Gerushia's New World

Has Anyone Seen Kim?

2010-11-26T09:54:00.000-08:00

Good Morning to All:

Okay...it's confirmed, I am a bad blogger. I wasn't always a bad blogger. There was a time when I blogged 5 days a week, but somehow, I've fallen off that path. I want to blog more...I love to blog...I feel better when I blog, but I just can't seem to find anything interesting to blog about anymore. However, I am still trying. I haven't forgotten my blog or my blog friends. I've been gone so long that blogger has added all sorts of new things to make my blogging life even more complicated. So, I shall need to re-learn how to blog!!

In the meantime...I do want to let you know I am having a huge Black Friday Sale in Gerushia's Etsy Shop. Now thru November 28th you will receive...50% off any order with coupon code 42448. This sale includes everything in the shop! When checking out, all you need to do is key in coupon code 42448 and the 50% will automatically be taken off. Isn't that fabulous? Etsy is now offering these fantabulous "coupon codes" which makes having a sale much easier.

I hope you are able to find a few art goodies to give as gifts. Lots of prints and a few originals are being offered. Don't forget ~ ACEOs make fantastic stocking stuffers, and at 50% off....you can buy ALOT of ACEOs!!

I hope over the moon that I will be back sooner than soon!!

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Halloween Days and Studio Time...

2010-10-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

It is truly a lovely day outside. A bit gray and blustery with a chill in the air. The first day that's really felt like Autumn. The days are getting shorter, which always makes me sad, but can sometimes be a good thing. Shorter days have a way of forcing me to slow down and "get back to work". I actually finished two watercolor/collage over the weekend and they are both listed in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

"Guardian of La Llorona"

This piece has been "in the works" for quite some time. I've been fascinated with the legend of La Llorona since I was a wee girl. Growing up in Southern California, La Llorona was a legend that ran strongly within the Mexican culture. She is rumoured to walk through many of the cemetaries through the desert region.

La Llorona is Spanish for The Weeping Woman. She is believed to have drowned her own children in order to be with the man she loved ~ but, she was rejected by the man. When she reached the gates of Heaven, she was asked, "Where are your children?" and she replied, "I don't know, my Lord." She was not permitted to enter Heaven until she found her children. She now wanders the Earth for all eternity, searching for her drowned offspring.

As you can see, I've used images that conjure the idea of La Llorona...a Lady in White, a woman in mourning at the headstone, and children....

*Photo of headstone courtesy of Chantal Menard.

"Bedelia's First Date"

What a glorious day!! Bedelia is going on her first date AND she's going with Mr. Bruce. All the gals in town just love Mr. Bruce. Well, he's just about the most handsome man in the whole county ~ so strong and proud...oh, and his eyes make all the women swoon.

On this day of Bedelia's first date, she woke very early, took a long, luxurious bath and spent all day making herself look pretty. She decided her blue hat was perfect for the evening. So...Bedelia put on her little black dress and her lovely blue hat and she looked gorgeous!!

Bedelia's family was so happy for her. They hugged her and complimented her on her beauty. Everyone waited on the front porch for Mr. Bruce to arrive. Of course, Bedelia was a bit embarrassed about that, but the family insisted. Anyway, Mr. Bruce arrived precisely on time. He looked smashing in his new golden collar. Oh, he's so polite! Bedelia's daddy shook Mr. Bruce's paw, gave him the rules and wished them a good time. Just as Mr. Bruce and Bedelia were leaving, the sky boiled with blackness and the air turned to static...."OH no ~ not again" Bedelia cried....

Now, the end of the story belongs to you!!

I just adore writing little stories to go along with my art. Both of these pieces can be found in the shop in print form as well as the originals.

And...although I have been busy in my studio, we managed to get the house decorated for Halloween. I get almost giddy over the thought of pumpkins and ghoulies and all that sort of silly Halloween fun...

Meet our newest Halloween addition...Mr. Tolliver.

I posted a photo of Mr. Tolliver on my facebook "fanpage", and just by accident, a silly, spontaneous poem was created. I started with this basic photo caption: "Poor Mr. Tolliver fell in the pot, then fell into a terrible rot!!"...then, someone else chimed in and left a short, poetic verse, then another person added another verse...and I added a few verses myself as well as my brother, Robert. In the long run, this accidental, spontaneous poem took on a life of it's own ~ a bit of Edward Gorey and a splash of Dr. Seuss...

"Poor Mr. Tolliver"

Poor Mr. Tolliver fell in the pot, then fell into a terrible rot!!
Did he slip?
Did he trip?
He took a terrible flip....

He fell in the pot
Graceful? He's not...

He got stuck in the pot and couldn't get out,
Despite all the hours he spent giving shouts.
His neighbors were wondering where he was about...
Poor Mr. Tolliver couldn't get out...

He scratched and he clawed and screamed till he cried,
All the while wondering..."am I going to die"?
Will I croak in this pot...give up my ghost?
Before I have a chance to eat my morning toast?

Was he drunker than snot when he fell in the pot?
Yes, yes he was, he was drunker than snot
And that's what caused him to fall in the pot.

You see, Mr. Tolliver had a bad cold,
That's what happens when you're fragile and old.
He coughed and he hacked and he blew his nose,
Till the snot was a drippin' from his head to his toes.

Slippin' and slidin' in his puddle of snot,
Caused old man Tolliver to fall in the pot!

Isn't that a silly poem? But, it was so much fun.

Oh, and I've had a terrible time fighting with those yucky, plump green tomato worms the last few weeks. They give me the chills...ick!!

And...I will leave you just knowing that if there are any of you who are battling the "candies"...I'm right there with you. I am not a big sweet eater, but this time of year, those evil little sugar morsels just call my name ~ I simply can't resist...

Candy Corn

Chocolates

All so tempting!!

Is anyone else having a battle with the "candies" right now?

As always, thank you so much for stopping by, as it is always appreciated.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Finally Ending This Give-Away...

2010-10-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess I'll go ahead and close up this give-away. Unfortunately, during the last few months, alot of folks haven't been able to leave comments on my blog. Blogger is looking into it for me, but at this time, nothing has changed. I received so many emails and notes from people telling me that they had tried over and over to leave a comment for the give-away, but my blog wouldn't accept them. Due to that fact, I can only count 13 people in the give-away.

My "randomizer" chose #8 ~ jdavissquared. I will contact her in an email.

Thank you so much for your patience. I think I'll hold off on anymore give-aways until blogger can fix this problem with leaving comments.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

October Give-Away ~ UPDATED

2010-10-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Good Morning:

Just a quick note to let you know that I am going to keep the give-away going for another few days. Something is terribly wrong with my blogger account and many people weren't able to leave a comment. I'm working through the problem with blogger...so, until I know exactly what's going on, I'll keep the contest up. Unfortunately only 13 people were able to leave comments. 2 of which I left for them. Hmmmm...

Looks like it's that time again ~ time for another give-away. Oh how I love doing give-aways. It's always nice to sell and show your art, but giving it away is something that truly makes me feel, somehow, worthwhile! Maybe I can bring a brief bit of happiness into someone's day when the mail arrives....opening up their mailbox to find a pleasant surprise instead of the daily bills and junk mail!

So, in honor of the spooky-ish Halloween season, I've decided to offer 6 ACEO prints that all have a dark or eerie feel about them. For those of you who may not know about ACEOs...they are collectible, small format art. They can be any medium or theme, but they must adhere to the size requirement of 2-1/2" x 3-1/2". They are the same size as a standard trading card.

All you have to do is leave a comment in the comment section. The winner will be chosen at random by my personal randomizer...my daughter Ava.

The give-away will run until October 10, Sunday evening 6:00 p.m. Pacific time. The winner will be announced the morning of Monday, October 11.

Here are the 6 ACEO prints to be included in the contest:

Guardian of the Masquerade

Amelia Visits the Ghostly Orchards

Secrets Under the Blood Moon

The Lonely Ghost

The Adopted

Damien's Day

Ohhh...and I'll note here ~ the watermarks that you see here on the ACEOs will not be on the actual prints.

As always....thank you ever so much for participating. It is very much appreciated.

Until Sunday:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Candace in Wonderland (or Candace does California)...

2010-09-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that I had a visitor last month? No? Well then...let me tell you a bit about Candace. You see, Candace is on a tour this year. She started in Alaska and will be travelling all over the world for an entire year. The tour is being hosted by Kimberly Rogers of Numinosity Beads. Kimberly was kind enough to schedule Candace to spend some time with me, here in Southern California.

Candace arrived in my mailbox on a warm, blue sky day ~

I asked Candace where she might like to go and what she might like to see. But of course....Candace wanted to see some local sights first ~

Then....off to Hollywood ~

If you haven't noticed, Candace is a wild and crazy red-head. So, naturally, she wanted to have her picture taken next to the star of another crazy red-head ~

Then...we were off to High Voltage Tattoo

Candace wanted to get a tattoo just like mine, but I was afraid Kimberly might not like that idea ~

Next, we toured Kat Von D's Wonderland Gallery~

Candace got to see alot of fantastical art. A whole show dedicated to the art of Kevin Llewellyn. Candace was a wee bit frightened by the art, but oh so curious as well ~

After touring Hollywood, Candace very much wanted to go to Disneyland ~

What fun we had.

Before we knew it, it was time for Candace to go onward. The night before she left, we hosted a "Pizza Party" in her honor ~

"Hey...get your fingers out of the picture...this party is for me" ~

All in all, we had a fabulous time...touring, sight-seeing, eating.

Bye-bye Candace. We'll miss you ~

Okay...Let's Do a Print!

2010-09-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hello There:

Just a very quick update on my newest piece: "Guardian of the Bayou Princess". I've had so many emails requesting that I offer this piece in print, I've decided to go ahead and take it to print even though the original is still in the shop. Or ~ maybe I'll take the original out of the shop and keep it for myself. Either way, I've just listed the print version of "Bayou Princess" in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

Also...because I am currently having a "Buy One Get One Free" sale on all 4" x 6" prints, this piece will be included in the BOGO because it is a 4" x 6" watercolor/ collage.

Okay....marketing done!!

I'll be back very soon with a regular post.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

"Guardian of the Bayou Princess"

2010-09-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago, I posted a "work in progress" photo of this piece. Since then, I have been so over the top busy, I have had no time to actually set at my desk and work. Last night, I finally finished this piece! I found a few hours of uninterrupted time at my desk, and I took advantage of that time ~

This new piece is entitled: "Guardian of the Bayou Princess", and it is built around a vintage photo of an African American girl from Louisiana. I acquired this photo a couple of years ago and have been fascinated with it since I first laid eyes on it. The photo was snapped in the 1920s in a small town in Louisiana, not too far from New Orleans. The writing on back of the photo led me to believe that the girl was somehow "special" in her local region. That's all I'll say about that....

With this haunting yet beautiful young woman, and the original writing on the back of the photo, I was able to create a story to go along with this piece ~ part fiction, part reality...

"Ayira is heartsick today, the day of her 18th birthday. This special time is to be celebrated, but Ayira can think only of her sister ~ her twin sister, born exactly 2 hours and 32 seconds after herself. You see, Ayira and Adongo were born deep in the Bayou...secret babies. Each to be a Princess at 18 years of age. They were both expected to carry on a family tradition....but 2 years ago, there was a terrible accident. So horrible and unexpected that it's never talked about....and now, Ayira is alone and heart-broken, with no desire to live, let alone to be a Princess. But...on this day, the day of Ayira's 18th birthday...everything will change ~

The ending of the story belongs to you...."

If you have any questions about this piece, please feel free to email me. If you are interested in purchasing this original piece, you can find it in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

I don't have an exact date, but "Guardian of the Bayou Princess" will be offered in print form as well.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Who Likes Free Art?

2010-09-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little blurb today. Gerushia has decided to offer all 4" x 6" prints in her shop as "Buy One Get One Free". This is a great time to start purchasing your holiday gifts. Buy one to give away, and keep the other for yourself.

Also, by purchasing handmade items (and/or prints) you are lending your support to the unique world of the arts.

Click here for a direct link to the 4" x 6" section in Gerushia's shop.

Thanks so much for your continued support, and your kind comments and emails.
Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Feeling a Bit Melancholy (But I Mean That In a Good Way) ~

2010-09-10T12:15:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt melancholy during the change of season? Autumn is my favorite season of all, but I still feel a bit low at Summer's end. There are smells all about me right now that signal the oncoming Fall season...a dampness in the soil, the last hint of Lavendar ~

A late Summer garden visitor, sharing her beauty and snacking on sugar water from the Hummingbird feeder ~

There's a particular glare that comes with the change as well. Everything is dreamy yellow. As I say good-bye to Summer, I find myself anxiously awaiting the first peek-a-boo of turning leaves....scarlett, orange and coral. Natures passion, her fiery gift of color ~

Soon, it will be time to carve Jack-O-Lanterns ~

and feast on generous amounts of candy ~

But for today, as I await the Fall with open arms, I will allow myself just a bit of self-indulgent melancholy.

Memories of beach days ~

and bare feet ~

Along with the changing season comes a busy schedule for me.

I have 2 collages ~

and a doll ~

in a local Gallery House show, and one secret project that I can't mention! :)

Ohhh...and something that I am over the moon excited about...my friend, Shell, and I are attending our Orientation meeting for The Art of Elysium. We will be donating our time, as artists, to Los Angeles area hospitals working with chronically and terminally ill children. This is something that I have wanted to do for ever so long. It will be difficult, heartbreaking and rewarding all at once. I hope very much that I will be able to be a positive light in the lives of these children.

Ohhh...and may I just go ahead and market a wee bit? I'm having a BOGO (Buy One Get One Free) sale in Gerushia's Etsy Shop. All 4" x 6" prints are BOGO. With the holidays just around the corner, this is a great time to buy art for gifts! Take advantage of the sale, if you like.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

New Ink and Everything But The Kitchen Sink...

2010-09-02T11:35:00.000-07:00

My goodness, it's been way too long since my last visit. I haven't been on holiday...no tropical vacations or cruises to Mexico. Just alot of Everydays. Being so busy with this and that left me with only snippets of time to sit at my computer. I miss my daily blogging. I feel detached and out of the loop. So...with a free day in front of me, I'm taking this opportunity to get caught up with my blogging. I wonder if this will be my longest post ever? I have so many pictures to share with you, so I'll keep the text to a minimum. I'm hoping, after getting caught up today, I can be a better blogger!!

Now, where to begin? I think chronological order might be the way to go....

Planted some vegetables in my garden this year ~

Future Fried Green Tomato

Curly Cucumber

I also planted some Sunflowers, but a horde of ravenous Goldfinch stripped the leaves off of every single plant. Never had that happen before ~

Early in August, I had the opportunity to take my daughter to meet her favorite band. (I like them as well). We met all the guys and got a couple of items signed. Have a look at her eyes...pure emotion and a bit star struck as well ~

A week later I finally got my "Dancing Fiona" tattoo. The appointment had been scheduled since March. I was so fortunate to be able to schedule with Dan Smith at High Voltage. (This is the shop featured in the show L.A. Ink). My daughter and my friend Shell accompanied me...and I must admit, we had a blast ~

Kat Von D's Throne

Don't know if this Chandelier has ever been shown on L.A. Ink

Dan drawing up the Dancing Fiona stencil

I just posted this photo because I think it's over the moon cute

Freshly finished Fiona

Shell and me posing as usual

And....here's a treat for those of you who have always wondered what the High Voltage bathroom looks like!!! ~

Wow....do ya think we took enough pictures?

Two days after my tattoo, we celebrated my daughter's 17th Birthday. Bonzo had a fabulous time at the party ~

I have noticed through the years that anytime I take a photo around my front palm tree, it is surrounded by orby type thingies. There are always at least 6 or 7 orbs. I don't know what was going on in these two photos...but I have never seen this many orbs around my palm tree

I haven't had much time to read this summer, but with the season slowing down, I am now reading this (love me a circus-y book) ~

Over the summer, I have enjoyed playing around with shadows ~ snapping pictures of unexpected silhouettes ~

This last shadow silhouette gives me a giggle ~

It looks like the Pringle's Man (do you agree)? ~

Last week, my friend Shell and I became members of a local "Arts Association". We visited the gallery and goofed around as usual ~

We browsed around at a vintage shop as well ~

My large family of Orioles are still visiting, but not for long. They'll be on their way South in a couple of weeks. This photo shows one of the "teenage" Orioles at the Hummingbird feeder ~

Last Saturday, my husband and I enjoyed the opening reception of my arty pal Julie Bergmann's gallery show at Studio Claremont. We had a lovely time visiting with Julie, her husband and a few other artist friends. The show is fabulous, highlighting Julie's Papier Mache, photography and mixed media works. If you're local and have a few hours to spare, drop by and have a look!

Well...this brings me to this morning. I was so surprised to see a big, fluffy tree squirrel in my front yard. I see wee little ground squirrels all about my local park, but never, not once, have I seen a tree squirrel around here ~

Isn't he the best squirrel in the world? I wish the photos were better, but I was in a rush to run inside and get my camera. By the time I got back outside, the squirrel was being stalked by a nasty, mean stray cat...so I scared the cat away and my furry squirrel baby ran away as well.

For all of you who made it to the end of this entry without fainting from pure bordeom, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Gnarly Alice is Finally Finished ~

2010-08-15T18:19:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to finally show you the finished "Gnarly Alice in Wonderland". She's simple, really...just my idea of how Alice looks. Well...this is how she looks in my dreams ~

She's completely hand-stitched. I don't use a sewing machine. I love to sit and stitch and think. She's wearing a fashionable, walnut ink stained blue skirt, a lovely white net petticoat and she thinks the black yarn gives the impression of black striped stockings. Both Alice and myself LOVE striped stockings! ~

Her skirt buttons are vintage...all covered in shiny rhinestone goodness! ~

She even has a black satin ribbon in her spectacular golden hair ~

All in all, I'm happy with her. She's rather large. Larger than I had planned. Measuring approximately 27" high x 29" wide from the tip of each hand.

If you're interested in adopting Alice, she can be found in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

If you have any questions about Alice, please feel free to email me or leave a comment right here on my blog. I'll be more than happy to answer any questions.

Thank you so much for looking. I'll be back super soon with the previously promised High Voltage Tattoo post (yummy)!

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Just a Wee Sneak Peek...

2010-08-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Oh my...I have a yummy blog post to share with you next week. But...I have ever so many photos to go through and watermark, I just want to give you a little peek today.

I did it...

I finally did it...

AND...I did it with Dan Smith from High Voltage Tattoo. (You know, L.A. Ink).

I can't wait to show you all the magnificent photos. I can't wait to tell you about the whole super fantastical day!

In the meantime, while I compose the tattoo blog entry (and finish my way bigger than I had planned Alice doll), I am offering a "Tattoo Celebration" discount on "Dancing Fiona" in print form at Gerushia's Etsy Shop. This is a great time to take advantage of the sale, as I have lots of Fionas printed and ready to go. And ~ Christmas is just around the corner!

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Zeb and Essy Need a New Home ~

2010-08-09T21:35:00.000-07:00

I just adore making dolls. I love the whole process...thinking, planning, drawing patterns, and finally, combining every aspect to create a curious new life. Zeb and Essy were created as a sort of nod to the old handmade ragdolls of the past. (Of course, I added a bit of "gnarly" to the mix.

A few years ago, I was making several dolls a month under the name "gnarly-dolls". But, when my mom became weak and sick, I no longer had the time to hand-stitch my dolls, so I put them aside for awhile. Now....with a bit more time and a higher spirit, I am finding my way back to the meditative and rhythmic stitching that I love so very much.

Zeb and Essy are the last dolls I made before going on hiatus. I kept them, safely packed away, just in case I never had the opportunity to make anymore dolls. But, I've found that keeping them hinders the process of going onward. So...I have decided to list them in Gerushia's Etsy Shop. All the details will be listed there, such as size and a bit more detail about their story...why I named them Zeb and Essy.

I will be listing them as a pair only. They do not want to be separated. I will list them tomorrow, Tuesday, August 10 at 11:30 a.m. pacific time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me or leave a comment right here on Gerushia's blog.

Until Tomorrow:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Something Alice-y This Way Comes...

2010-08-07T14:53:00.001-07:00

Oh my....it's been ages since I've taken the time to sit down and hand stitch a doll. I am so happy to say that I've gathered up all the ingredients and have started to concoct a new doll. Something fun and gnarly and Alice-y. Would you like to take a peek?

I am just now brewing a batch of strong tea to stain Alice's skin. Once that's dried and ironed....the mad stitching will begin.

I am hoping to have her finished by Monday so I can list her in one of Gerushia's Shops. Or maybe even simply offer her for sale straight through Gerushia's blog.

I will be back soon with a complete Alice to show you.

Until Then:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Over the Moon Sale in Honor of Roxanne ~

2010-08-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that I am giddy? Over the moon happy? It's simple really...I'm happy because Roxanne is happy. Roxanne is the winner of the 3 print give-away. Truly, heartfully...she is a jubilant winner. Knowing that makes me happy!!

Of the 6 prints included in the give-away, Roxanne chose these three~

Another Hopeful Sunday

The Uninvited

Dancing Fiona

I am so humbled by Roxanne's positive reaction to winning these prints...so, in honor of Roxanne, I am offering all 6 of the prints at a special discounted price, but only until midnight tomorrow (August 4th). You can find the special priced prints in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.
I do still have a few of the originals to these prints. If you're interested in any of those, you can find them in Gerushia's Big Cartel. Simply look at the categories on the right hand side...click on "originals". That will take you right over to the few originals that I have left.

Thank you so much for participating in my give-away. It is always so much fun. I adore giving stuff away. Especially when the person receiving the art is truly happy.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

And the Winner Is...

2010-08-02T10:58:00.001-07:00

Well....the contest is officially over ~ so, we have a winner to announce this morning. My trusty, curly-haired personal randomizer (my daughter) picked number 17. Comment number 17 was made by Roxanne of mentalmulch. I'll contact her for all of the needed info and I'll let you all know which three prints Roxanne chooses. Congratulations Roxanne!

Thank you so much for playing with me. I'll be back with a new post really soon.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Time For a Give-Away ~

2010-07-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time again ~ time for a give-away. It's very simple, really. All you need to do is leave a comment in the comment section. On Monday August 2nd, I'll call upon my trusty "randomizer" (my daughter) to pick the winning comment number.

I am listing 6 of my 4" x 6" watercolor/collage prints. The winner will have the opportunity to pick any 3 of the 6 listed prints. Okay?

Sister Ophelia's Unfortunate Picnic

The Uninvited

The Temporary Hat

The Changeling Moon

Another Hopeful Sunday

Dancing Fiona

Have a great weekend and I will see you here again, on Monday, to announce the winner!

Thank you so much:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Shadows and nightmares and goodness too...

2010-07-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel out of sorts....hazy....a mere shadow of yourself? ~

Lately, I've been feeling like this. Maybe it's because I've been so busy. Or...maybe it's because I've been plagued by horrible nighmares. Nightmares that revolve around my mom during the time she was very sick, right before she passed away. Vivid, colorful, horrible, depressing, exhausting nightmares! They follow me all day.

Still, I find my way. Tugging in all the goodness I can find. Wrapping myself around the favorable fragrances of daylight...temporarily forgetting the deathly smorgasbord of my sleep.

Black and white, love and hate, day and night...contrasts ~ the good with the bad. As a rule, we must have some of both in order to appreciate our life to the fullest, yes? So, with that being said, let me also share with you some fabulous and dreamy "stuff" as well!

As some of you may already know, I have a collage hanging in an exhibit at the Riverside Art Museum in Riverside California ~

I would never have participated in this event if it weren't for my friend, Shell~

We participated together and supported each other through the process ~

Shell is a fabulous and extremely versatile artist. She's a master with color, especially turquoise ~

The Curatorial was last Thursday and I actually won a free year's membership to the museum for my entire family. The curator has also asked me to consider teaching a class about ACEOs at the museum. How lovely to pass on my little bit of knowledge regarding small format art. To say the least, I am humbled!

After the conversation with the Curator regarding ACEOs, I realized that it's been well over a year since I created an ACEO, so I managed to get 2 done this week ~

Guardian of the Masquerade

Pansy's Dancer

Both of these originals can be found in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

On the homefront, I've been dabbling about in the garden. I decided to plant some vegetables this year (oh my, they've grown since these photos were snapped) ~

Oh...and we lost an entire limb from our Nectarine tree~

There were lots of ripe Nectarines on that limb, but nothing went to waste~

I made a pie ~

and since I already had flour from head to toe (I'm a messy pie maker), I figured I may as well thaw some of my Boysenberries~

and make a berry pie as well ~

They were both so yummy and I feel blessed by the opportunity to offer such homemade goodness to my family.

Here in the oven of the Southern California desert, the days are so intensely hot, I find my way outdoors in the evening to enjoy the sunsets ~

and glowing night roses ~

In the yellow heat of the day, I find my way to the studio to daydream and imagine ~

and create little pieces of curiosity...playing with paints ~

dreaming up stories for my "characters" ~

Beyond the shadows and nightmares, there is light and dreams and hope. Sometimes it's obvious and glorious, and sometimes it's quiet, tucked away in our Everydays.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

One Last Marketing Post...

2010-07-18T10:46:00.001-07:00

Good Morning:

I PROMISE this will be the last "marketing post" for awhile.

You see, I am in the process of cleaning my studio, and I've come across my file of older originals. I have been creating lots of new pieces lately and would like to make room for them in Gerushia's Etsy Shop. I do like to keep my shop tidy and easy to shop from...so, I decided to clean it up a bit and offer the older originals at half their normal price!!

There are 5 original pieces included in the half price sale. I will list each one here so you can see them. The price on each piece has been cut just exactly in half.

Eula's Party ~ Originally ~ Ooopsie Sold

Sister May ~ Originally ~ Ooopsie Sold

Rabbit's Recital ~ Originally $30.00, now $15.00

Airmal For Emmy ~ Ooopsie ~ Sold

Fashionable Fiona ~ Originally $55.00, now $27.50

I am ever hopeful to pass these pieces onward, as I have had them in my file for quite awhile.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email or comment.

Thank you so much:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

One Day Sale ~

2010-07-15T11:24:00.001-07:00

Good Day Everyone:

Just a quick little blurb here today, as I'm busy in the studio. I did want to pop in and let you know that I'm having a one day sale on all original watercolor/collages in Gerushia's Big Cartel. This one day sale includes all of the newer pieces that I currently have posession of ~

And....several older originals as well ~

I know I am so very behind in my regular blogging. Seems that all I've been doing this past month is marketing ~ and, in all honesty, marketing is the only part about my "job" that I don't love!

You are all so patient and I appreciate that you continue to visit my blog. I promise that I will post a regular and fun entry very soon.

Until Next Time
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Vilula's First Adventure

2010-07-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

Vilula Mae Davenport is a hard working and patient woman. Oh...she's kind to everyone and eveyone adores her. Vilula has worked for the Flynn family for over 40 years now. Well....she and her daughter, Pansy, even have a little wooden house of their own right on the Flynn family's property.

Vilula never asks for a thing. She does her work and sings all the while. Now, it's time for Vilula to have some fun. You see, Pansy and Mrs. Flynn have planned an exciting get-away for Vilula...her first ever vacation...her first adventure ~

This original watercolor/collage can be found in Gerushia's Big Cartel Store.

And...Vilula can be found in print form in Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

For those of you who may not know, I collect vintage photos to use in my art. I have a small but fabulous collection of African American snapshots. I have wanted to use "Vilula" and her daughter "Pansy" in an art piece for a long time. So...I decided that now is the time.

Thank you so much for dropping by.

Until Next Time:
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Sister Ophelia's Unfortunate Picnic ~

2010-07-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

"Do you like picnics? My sister Ophelia loves them...

A warm day under the full moon....waiting for our friends to arrive ~ oh the lovely flutter of summertime butterflies. I remember so well, that day. The day of the unfortunate picnic. You see, we had everything planned perfectly, and then..." ~

"Sister Ophelia's Unfortunate Picnic" can be purchased in print form at Gerushia's Etsy Shop.

The original piece can be purchased at Gerushia's Big Cartel Store.

As always, thank you ever so much for having a look.

Until next time,
Kim
Gerushia's New World

Slowly on the Mend...

2010-07-08T12:00:00.001-07:00

Hello There:

Just a quick pop in this morning. I have so much to share with you, but unfortunately, I have done something horrible to my back. I am slowly on the mend, but not able to spend oodles of time sitting at my computer desk.

I have photos to share of the opening night of the Riverside Art Museum's Small Format Exhibit. I have a piece in the exhibit!! I have lots of wee little seedlings making their way upward in my garden. I've decided to go with Vegetables this year. I'm slowly working on a new collage, although I haven't been able to work since hurting my back. AND....I'm preparing for another give-away here on my blog. I will be back with further information regarding the give-away.

Ohh, and in celebration of "The Uninvited" being on exhibition at the Riverside Art Museum, the print version is nicely discounted at Gerushia's Big Cartel.

As always ~ thank you so much for your continued visits and lovely emails.

Kim
Gerushia's New World