Cassandra Russell

creativity prescription #24: Live Your Brilliance

 

Here's a taste of what you can expect with my upcoming book. The starter kit is designed to prepare you for making five key shifts to changing your daily mindset. This refreshingly different process will having you thinking in new and creative ways to approach your life. It is yours as free bonus gift simply by signing up in the box to right. The theme of this post is living your life in brilliance and  the starter kit will get you answering some key questions in this department.

 

Another amazing tool that I must share with you is brought to us by a woman named Karen Fagan: The Empowerment Expert. She's created a program called Bold, Brilliant and Rich and is hands down an amazing way to connect with reclaiming your inner truth. She is truly passionate about helping you become the biggest, boldest and most authentic version of yourself.

Try It: Karen's "Empowerment Products" can be found on her beautiful website along with information on a very power filled upcoming free online summit from May 3rd to June 2nd.

 

 

 

 

 

creativity prescription #23: Create A Power Zone Office

 

In light of Feburary being Time Managament month, I am offering the following free bonus gift:

Claim your free bonus e-book Creative Power Tools: Office Makeover Checklist.

All you have to do is fill in the box above at the right to claim it.

  


Part of time management is creating an office that space that keeps your vision on track, helps you to be your most productive,  and supports your planning.  A cluttered office subconsciously distracts your mind and steals precious productivity. The solution is to make your office actually activate your creative power. Please enjoy my bonus gift: my e-book which comes from The Creative Power Tools Collection.  You'll Discover: The secrets to setting up an office that kicks starts your productivity daily.

 

February is Time Management Month and every small business
owner and work-from-home professional I know (including me) needs
all the help we can get with effective time management!

You, and anyone you would like to pass this message along to, can
get lots of FREE information and resources on time management from
time management experts all across the country.

Go to http://www.TimeManagementGiveaway.com

Where you’ll be able to sign up for free resources such as e-books,
tip sheets, audio programs and more, all on the subject of time
management! Lots of experts in this field have contributed, so
everyone will be able to find material that fits their personal
productivity and time management needs.

http://www.TimeManagementGiveaway.com

creativity prescription #22: Fill In The Blanks

The new year is a great time to fill the blanks of our lives and get clear about what we want to create in the upcoming months. This past December I won a contest for the best head start idea for 2011 on Darren Hardy's  blog. He was one of the speaker's I saw in San Franscisco at Brendon Burchard's Live Event. I won an autograghed signed copy of the Compound Effect and a subscription to Success Magazine which I gave to my two main miracle motivators as holiday gifts.

My winning idea was to create a massive target board with a linear road map to follow through the months of 2011. The creative mind wants to do everything at once and we all know that this can lead to a path of frustration. The above is a mini planner for creating your own massive target board. Don't forget to include the main project for each month and the sub tasks you will need to get done to pull it all through. What are you going to create this year? Print out the planner above and have fun filling in the blanks! I was happy to see that in one of Brendon's lastest training he suggests a similar calander planner so you know where and how you are adding value each month.

Another way you can kickstart your new year into action is to purchase my new ebook:

Cassandra Russell's: Creative Power Tools

{33} Fast Track Strategies To Activate Your Power Potential

For the past 5 years I've written my blog filled with what I call Creativity Prescriptions. These creative techniques, ideas and prompts are designed to embellish and empower your life. This e book of 33 techniques will bring out your best.

If you are ready to bring in your bliss this year, then this book is a must for you!
 
This eBook gives you a step by step guide to creative living! These book is for anyone ready to be creatively empowered.

It is written so that beginners can get started and seasoned pros can easily add it to their personal development repertoire. With 33 strategies, ideas and instruction and over 30 clear color photos, you will have no trouble applying these simple yet profound insights. 

creativity prescription #21: Capture The Juice - Reviewing and Revisting

   

Shooting video of the moments you feel the most juiced or creative is one of my secrets. I have included one that I made on the second day of my trip to San Fransisco to attend Brendon Burchard's live event called Expert's Academy. It is in these open moments we have to seize that realiztion of exactly what we are actually cpapble of doing. Our minds and entire beings are ready to step into the unknown of the creative process. It is excitng and daunting to go into this space, not knowing what we will find. In the end we are the creators and make it what we choose.

One Juicy Tip: Capture the presence of your own creativty with video and photos to remind yourself of the greatness that lies within.

$ Saving Tip: Boost your energy naturally by using the NLP anchoring method of evrythime you feel outrageously creative, note it in your mind and give it an association. For example after an vent that totally reprograms your entire nervous system, say to yourself, "I feel so creative!" If you did this at peak creative times repeatedley, this phrase would become linked up in your brain to your peak creativity. Saying the phrase would evntluslly beome your anchor or trigger for your peak creative state.

 

TRY IT: Make a list of the times in your week when you are in a high creative peak state. For me it is most natural for me to create in the morning. Start anchoring this creative ease with a key phrase or word. You can start simply, by using the color red which is often associated with creativty.  One week two test it. When you are feeling creatively sluggish, repeat the word red and see it in your mind. The desired effect of this anchor is to access your creativity. Anchoring can be used in many other positive ways. I first learned about this at one of Tony Robbins' talks and have been using it ever since.

creativity prescription #20: Breakthrough Your Fears

I am back from my recent trip to San Fransisco aka "My Breakthrough". I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone by travelling alone. Usually my husband and I travel everywhere together and he does everything. This was my chance to really step out of my element and meet myself. I admit I was a little nervous at first as I have never been to California before. But it my hesitation was the perfect example of (F.E.A.R.) false evidence appearing real. Travelling alone was part of my anti-shy girl mission (now accomplished).

Sight seeing in San Francisco was outstanding. Buidlings looking like wedding cakes lined up in a row, seemed good enough to eat. I wish I had more time to take pictures and video, but I was busy. I went there for another reason, also part of my anti-shy girl mission, to go to Brendon Burchard's Live Event called Expert's Academy. Four days of super content and hands on practical instruction peppered with Brendon's animated speaking style were the mix for a highly creative event. On the second day, I had a huge awakening where I realized that I could be creating so much more with my perosnal message. By the end of this life changing event for me I had broken through all hesitations and was juiced to begin a part of my creative journey. There is nothing like four days away from your normal life,  alone to reset your senses. For now, I am off to create, write and sculpt a new vehicle for my creativity prescriptions.

One Juicy Tip: Be willing to re-evision the containers for your work and message. This is not only a creativity key but the path to self fulfillment.

$ Saving Tip: Be strategic in your creating. If you paint a poorly done drawing, the finished work will always look bad. I am a firm believer in crafting a viable plan.  It is too easy for us as creators to begin an overwhelming bunch of projects. "Slow and steady wins the race"  is my new mantra.

 

TRY IT: Take some time to retreat and step out of your usual element. Create a new game plan for the areas you want to create in. For example have you ever considered writing an ebook or making video? Practice a media you haven't tried before to enhace your own personal message. You may create your most effective content yet.

 

creativity prescription #19: Invest In Your Creative Tools

I think the "economy situation" has made me more mindful of what I am suggesting you buy for your art materials. For my paper crafts and art journaling, I am trying to use what I have already. I also recycle so much from my home into collage papers -- which I actually prefer because they are less commercial looking. Some of my work is here on my blog.

I am currently working on a grouping of paper crafts for an e-book I am putting together. I have been mixed media paper crafting since I was child. Along the way I have learned so many ways to save time and money! I want to share them so that your art dollar can go farther.

One Juicy Tip: I collect recycled papers like colored envelopes, gift papers, notebook papers etc. to alter. I organize them by color into baggies. When I am ready to alter them I grab a baggie and start stamping on all the yellow papers for example. They dry and go back into the yellow section.

$ Saving Tip: Invest in tools that you will use over and over again. I use a pair of vintage barber scissors to cut small papers with precision. (Very sharp!)

TRY IT: Use recycled papers, pressed leaves, mail papers, foil etc. to create your journaling pages. If you have never tried art journaling, make a trial page. This is a place to record your DIY ideas, design your daily creative practice, inspirations, favorite quotes. Try making your own sacred book filled with innovations that speak to you. This is your time and space for creative play!

creativity prescription #18 : Stumped? Trust The Problem

Try It: Identify an area you are feeling stumped or stuck in. This could be the one piece that is holding back from a plenitude of creative energy. After writing it down and fill in the reasons why you are not moving forward.

According to Patricia Sun, we must Trust the Problem to lead us to some deeper learning, hence the name of her radio show of the same name. When we shift our thinking to look at ALL challenges as learning opportunities, our frustration levels go down. Being angry, frustrated or stuck doesn't seem to make sense anymore. Of course this is something that requires practice, and using this list exercise can help you see what you are up against in a new way. 

I can not help but wonder how different the world would be if a small group of us started thinking this way and eventually it caught on. These are the little shifts in consciousness that need to take place before evolutionary mind shifts can take place. It starts with a few of you to trust the problem. 

TRY IT: Explore this new self help lens when you are stumped on anything related to creativity, art, craft, home decor, DIY, innovation, and especially designing your daily creative spiritual practice.  How can you incorporate trusting the problem to make you daily living a more inspired experience?

Affirmation: I trust the problem to deliver me to higher ground.

creativity prescription #17 : Embracing Your Unique Abilities

I have been writing my blog now for 5 years with the intention of illustrating the power of creative daily practice. What ways do you fill the well? I believe that as we use creativity as a tool for accessing the intuitive mind, we become connected with source energy the same way that meditation does this. BUT it must be done mindfully. There is a difference between just painting and painting to accesses a deeper level of consciousness. Throughout my artistic journey of the past ten years, I have practiced this unexplored idea of creative daily spiritual practice.

I am often asked just how I have maintained this daily tribute to creative living. Through two pregnancies  and now life as a busy Mom of two making a habit of carving out that time in my studio has not always been easy. But this technique for aligning self with source can become addictive especially for people with busy minds. It is a wonderful way to let go and feel fabulous ---fast. We are all creative beings, of creation, so the idea that "you are not creative"  is simply impossible. I invite you to explore your personal journey through my other Creativity Prescriptions as I continue to create them. 

Try It: I have set a goal of making my Creativity Prescriptions into an interactive workbook by the end of 2010. Make a list of how have you have successfully used your creative power to embellish your daily life?

Affirmation: I am open to embracing my unique creative abilities.

creativity prescription #16 : I Can Do It Event Toronto - Hay House

Today's Creativity Prescription is about the I Can Do It Toronto Event by Hay House Publishing I just attended. 4 days of outstanding speakers and authors sharing some amazing content. One of the main "take aways" for me was that most o the speakers emphasized the importance of maintaining a regular spiritual practice.

I listen to these author/speakers regularly on Hay House Radio but hearing them live was phenomenal. I left the weekend feeling completely fabulous, revived and better than any vacation I've ever been on.

Carolyn Myss

Cheryl Richardson

Marianne Williamson

Doreen Virtue

Brian Weiss

Bruce Lipton

Jonathon Ellerby

Robert Holden

Wayne Dyer

"There is a voice in the Universe urging us to remember our purpose for being on this great Earth. This is the voice of inspiration, which is within each and every one of us. "

Greg Braeden

creativity prescription #15 : artistic authenticity

creativity prescription #14 : practice public speaking (with friends)

 

If the idea of public speaking scares you, try practicing it with friends. I joined Toastmasters International two years ago to over come my fear of public speaking. In the process, I met some amazing people who have now become friends. The first pic above is of my awarding winning mentor/pal Annette Lavigne who also teaches communication skills through her business Speak With Ease Now.

It was because of her push for excellence that I attended Darren LaCroix and Craig Valentine's workshop which is proof that we can learn so much from the people who are really good at what they do.  Both are TM World Champions of Public Speaking - yes that means in the world.

Try It: Consider joining a Toastmasters  club near you. Visit the nearest clubs as a guest and decide which one is the best fit for you.

Affirmation: I speak my truth. I have a story that need to be heard.

creativity prescription #13 : Getting Outside Of The Box: women's retreat with Crystal Andrus

I recently spent the day with Crystal Andrus at her Women's Retreat in her yoga studio which is a converted church beside her home. The day was amazing complete with a delicious and healthy lunch cooked by her daughters and husband. It's transforming when you go outside of the box that is your life and do something completely different. The theme of the retreat was release and Crystal told the story of the Golden Buddha to remind us of that we always remain Golden inside.

Try It: Investing in yourself and releasing emotional baggage frees us up to create beautiful possibility at light speed. Investigate Crystal Andrus's website to discover her various programs and products designed to empower.

Affirmation: I am remain golden on the inside regardless of what happens to me.

creativity prescription #12 : have your cake and eat it to

Sometimes we can feel guilty about our success, especially when we are not totally comfortable with the idea of shining  or winning. The art work I created below is reminder to sparkle with grace. When we learn to accept how wonderful we really are, our winnings seem like the obvious icing.

 

Try It:  Be open to the idea that you deserve to enjoy the wonderful things that occur in your life.

Affirmation:  I am entitled to have my cake eat and to eat it to. 

creativity prescription #11 : raw food rethink

At times, we need to repackage what is good for us ie. the idea of healthy eating to sell it to ourselves. Dessert at my house is always creatively served and healthy. Here's a lovely idea that gets my mismatched antique tea cup collection out of the china cabinet especially when I am feeling the need for fine things. using berries instead of chocolate covered truffles allows me to stay aligned with healthy eating. 

 

 

In the empty chocolate box above I placed various berries and took it as a hostess gift so that a healthy dessert option was available even if the she had overlooked it.

Try It:   Be open to new things to get the results you need. Repackage the concepts you need that are optimal for you by re-framing it in a way that really appeals to us.

Affirmation:  I rethink old ways and repackage them into new ones that serve me.

creativity prescription #10 : walk in the spring rain

A rainy spring walk through one of my favorite places in my home town always revives me. Unionville Main Street is a place I hung out with friends and ate ice cream cones with boys. These delicious places hold great memories and creative energy for me. Interestingly, we all have an individual blueprint of what inspires us.

Try It: Walk in the spring rain ( with an umbrella) an observe how mother nature forcefully pushes us to create. 

Affirmation:  I let the vigor of spring infuse my current creative projects.

creativity prescription #9 : creating to give

Easter morning for me as child was all about the packages. Yes, I was seduced by the shiny foil wrappings of the eggs and bunnies that arrived from Europe via the fine food import business my father worked for. (Alas it wasn't the Easter Bunny after all!) I loved the packaging of one particular bunny that I decided to “save” from being eaten. Instead, I would keep him as an art piece to admire year round on my book shelf. Soon the spring weather became increasingly warmer. While I did not notice the smell of melting chocolate bunny, an army of ants did. They marched in and began to devour him! My mother was horrified by the whole scene and promptly discarded him. I was left “bunniless”...

Today as a Mom, I admit to enjoying shopping for Easter treasures for my children based on the best packaging ideas. (Yes, I did survive:) But because my children have both been creatively nurtured from birth, it has become our tradition to make handmade gifts for every occasion. This year they made stickers from labels for their classmates. The stickers were stamped and they wrote their names out fifteen times - challenging for kids 6 and under. It was an exercise that left them feeling proud of what they had accomplished. They are already learning to tailor their artwork based on who they are giving it to. “This one is for so and so...” In the collage below I have included pictures of the paper crafts I give out at Easter. It is amazing what creative pathways can be discovered when you start with the intention of giving. 

Try It: Think of someone you adore and create a card personalized just for them, based on their favorite colours and styles. Pay attention to how much easier it is to evolve your project when you are creating with giving in mind.

Affirmation:  I create to give so that both unexplored pathways and my heart easily open up.

 

Next: If you are thinking of becoming an expert in your field, I can’t say enough about this creative individual, Brendan Burchard. Viewing his innovative ideas are a creative experience on their own. Check out his free blog posts here at  Expert's Academy .     

creativity prescription #8 : Make A Fresh Start

“Each one of us has our own “tipping point” - our own perfect equilibrium but most of us are afraid of the edge, afraid to fall. We fear contrast!” Crystal Andrus

 

I have spent the past few months doing some major shifting and clearing. I did not know what would fill the new space. This can be a scary thing. But sure enough right when I was ready my buddy Marsha sent me a link to Crystal Andrus’ website. As I delved through Crystal’s website I found her new S.W.A.T. Institute that trains life coaches ”to integrate all aspects of health, fitness, relationships, finances, and spirituality.”  I also found out that she is a Canadian and lives less than an hour away from me here north of the city!

That same night, Marsha and I went to The University of Toronto and agreed that Crystal is an outstanding speaker! The Toronto Power Group of which I am a member had invited her to speak. Afterwards, we got to meet and talk with her personally. Crystal brings a degree of glamour and genuine passion to her empowerment message that I have not seen before. Her personal story makes us want to play full out. She even gives us a blue print on how to get control of our own lives so that we can get more of what we want. Her new book, Simply Empowered is a practical, down to earth guide that helps us to clean up our act along with a how to on executing our plans.

 

 

Try It: Yes, I have read Simply Empowered and recommend it especially to us artistic types whose lack of structure does not serves us. Think of ways that you use your creativity to distract you from addressing the nuts and bolts that must be in working order for an empowered functional life to occur. Meet Crystal on her website to listen to her personal message.

Affirmation:  I am ready to embrace the changes which have been brewing inside me. I am ready to make a fresh start. I choose health and the better life that is waiting for me.

  

creativity prescription #7 : Step Into Your Flow

Some how the flow led me to find Summer McStravick whom I absolutely adore because of the richness her Flowdreaming technique of has brought to my life. I have always been aware of my own flow. Yet Summer has a way of articulating what flow is to that we can all navigate it easily. Flowdreams are like extended affirmations that can be use to pre-act or pre-program what we would like to see manifest in our lives. I have been Flowdreaming for three months now and I have seen a huge shift in the stagnant areas of my life.

I am a naturally lucky person, but mindfully putting out what I desire using her technique has recently helped me find a personal growth buddy, training for where I want to take my career, help with driving and overall ease. It’s just a new mind set. When I now approach that “dangerous turn”, I no longer make me kids be quiet and turn down the radio as my heart races, instead I just trust go with the flow. Amazingly I almost always get a green light, or it is clear for me to go, and when it is busy someone let’s me in no problem. No more people honking at me -- yeah!

Another way I know I am in my flow is the carrot trucks.. yes, my kids and I agree that when we see a carrot truck stocked with abundant crates of orange treasures fresh from mother earth, we know that luck will follow. OK, this was a tongue in cheek game I created to make the drive to school more fun. But then on days when my world is blue, magically a carrot truck appears reminding me that everything is cyclical and that I should step back into my flow. This would be a good time to proudly mention that I do live in Bradford Ontario, the carrot capital of the world! LOL. Let’s just say my chances of seeing a carrot truck are pretty good!

Try It: View my new body of work: Flow Painting in the first photo album at the right. I actually listened to Summer McStravick’s Flowdreaming talk radio show while I painted this last series of acrylic mixed media paintings. They are directly from flow. I recommend you investigate Flowdreaming for yourself and see how it can help you with getting into your own creative flow.

Affirmation:  I open my eyes to the signs of flow all around me. I know I can access my creativity anytime I want to, in the flow.

 

creativity prescription #6 : Opening Up To Share

Attending a drumming circle and then painting for two days straight was a wonderful recent opening up experience. For me, this means accessing a clear channel for creativity, which is always accompanied by love. There is a quality of energy that allows for sharing with everyone that presents it self in this state of consciousness. Blocks are eliminated in a completely natural way with the drum. Singing the the Native American medicine songs in circle has been a healing of my throat Chakra.

 

TRY IT: Yes, a drumming circle is a safe place to singing as loud as you want. It is not really about quality but expression of the heart and soul. The first circle I attended was by fireside two summers ago. Definitely something to try, especially if you are a soft talker like me.

 

Affirmation: When I am open, I make a point of taking the opportunity to share with others, the good energy I have been blessed with access to.

Product Review: Christmas came early for me this year as I opened up the Vessel Fusionware™ Flask and Eight Cup Set.  Since then my little family has enjoyed both hot and cold beverages with simple flair. My 4 and 5 year olds adore the organically shaped 5 oz. cups and have taken to drinking their nightly warm milk in them. All of a sudden healthy smoothies have also taken on new interest.

I never thought I would be using this set this much, but I find my self constantly reaching for it. It is so versatile, from serving drinking to small finger foods like nuts and grapes, the possibilities are endless for those appreciative of minimal modern presentation. The pitcher is perfect for our green veggie drinks made with the VitaMix blender. It can also be used as a vase with a single bloom or a collection of twigs. I have plans for some boxwood as they are the only thing I can cut right now. 

 

Links: CassandraRussellDesign; allmodern.com; Photos By Adrian Fernandez

creativity prescription #5 : Make A Power Path Manifestation Board

I woke up this morning feeling very light. The usual weight of power draining issues had left me after synthesizing the info I read in Robert Ohotto's newsletter on powerlessness. As a highly creative person and an idealist, his words are the authenticity tug I need to keep it real. His last talk on Hay House Radio helps us sort out what exactly we have power over and what we do not. He also highlights why identifying our powerlessness can be useful. So, so enlightening. Yes, Robert, also the author of Transforming Fate Into Destiny (wrapped up and under my tree...yes!), refreshingly speaks my language, inventing terms and using expressions like "that rocks". It's like listening to the big brother, I always wished I had.

His words also triggered an idea for me. As I was planning a vision board workshop today, I though why not make it a power path board class instead? Instead of having people manifest "stuff" and/or an ideal mate, they could create a board that keeps them on their power path. Imagine connecting daily with a board that has all of your power triggers anchored in it? Wouldn't this be an optimal place to begin each day and in pursuit of living out our soul contracts. This could only be a good thing. I will say that my past vision boards have always been about shaping my identity roles or archetypes as Robert calls them.  I believe I first saw Robert during Caroline Myss' Sacred Contracts book tour where she first spoke of these archetypes years ago. Perhaps, I subconsciously created a vision role on my board for each the archetypes...

For this new year, I am suggesting an evolution of the common vision board into the power path board. This will involve being honest with yourself about what holds and leaks power for you. As Robert Ohotto says,"There is a freedom in saying I have no power here...Surrender to powerlessness to get power."    

 

TRY IT: Make an active list of where you have power in your life. Ask when and where do I feel most powerful? The answers will lead to you carving out your power path aka your spirit quest. Try to use active verbs instead of putting material"stuff" on. The purpose of the board is to revitalize by reminding us of where and when we are empowered.

 Affirmation: I go into identifying both my places of power and powerlessness as a mindfully loving act to keep me on my power path.

Stay Tuned: I will write about Robert Ohotto's Holiday Survival Strategies On line Event - December 17th, 2009 6pm PST / 9pm EST. I am looking forward to hearing how I can make it through gracefully, during this online workshop. 

 Links: robert ohotto ; lisa jennings ; tammy ratcliff ; gilt groupe

 

creativity prescription #4 : Clearing Space For The New Year

One way I make space for the upcoming year, begins for me one month before the New Year begins. This is when I finalize my goals for the New Year and also brainstorming ways to make them more viable. With two kids, two dogs, two cats, a great husband and my unceasing creative passion, I have to give myself a leg up or my best intentions will dissolve in the turmoil. With this strong need to focus, I have to visualize what I want to realistically accomplish in my mind, in order to make room for new ideas to flourish. Actually, this is a family tradition from Trinidad. Annually at year end people go through a major cleaning of their homes for mainly for Diwali (the festival of lights) and then when Christmas follows everything is already in order. I have made clearing clutter apart of my decorating. As I am putting up wreaths, I am recycling countless bath products with that tiny bit left in them. I also go through my closets, donating clothes and food to charity.

 

TRY IT: It is also a great time to "pass it forward". I make little bags of things I am not using, I know certain people could use. Before I start thinking I live in a library, a basket of books I have been filling will be finding a new home very soon. But the main space I must clear is my studio aka my creativity zone...I promise to post some before and after pictures...yikes...  

 

Affirmation: I mindfully make space for the energy behind my goals of the New Year to begin to come through.

 

Stay Tuned:   I will be doing a product review for allmodern.com in an upcoming post...

Image links: Modern Bedding,  Cassandra Russell Design - Web Shop

creativity prescription #3: body talk

“If my life is for rent, then nothing I have is truly mine.” - Dido - Life Is For Rent Lyrics

When I finally got what this song meant, I loved it even more. What ultimately becomes impossible to ignore: we will not have these bodies forever. They are on loan to us for a short period of time and just how do we treat them? Not as a precious gift from nature, but instead we pick them apart, never quite being fully happy with the one we are stuck with. We are in a time where the pursuit of health and holistic work is more popular than ever, yet I believe our intentions in these areas still remain a little suspect. To be truly whole we need to be aligned to what our bodies are telling us, which means listening and then acting accordingly. To do this I suggest a re-introduction to our physical bodies take place.

 

TRY IT: Start a dialogue with your body. Pick a time where you can talk to your body in peace. Not in front of the mirror, as you the temptation to edit may drown out any valid conversation. Gratitude is always a wonderful place to start. Simply say,  "Body, I love you  just the way you are." You can also mention a few things you love about your body: "I particularly love the way my eyes are shining lately." Can you imagine the creative realm of possibilities of what positive things have yet to be said to our bodies. How about a call to work together to create optimal health and generate positivity. Why not share your fitness goals directly with your body? After all your body is your vehicle for travel in this life. We have all seen people who talk to their cars. All in all, I am sure you and your body will have lots to discuss.

Affirmation: I love my body the way it is. I am healthy. My cells are charged with creativity. 

References:Krow Fischer - Here On Earth

creativity prescription #2: meet your creative reflection

“Poetry spills from a broken heart, but flows from one that is loved.”  - Christopher Paul Rubero

 

Who do you see when you look in the mirror? The truth is that YOU are the only person on the planet who truly knows what your creative potential is. You are also the only person in control of it. Or maybe even you are unaware of the beautiful potential gifts you have hidden inside. What lengths will you go to create the changes you wish to see in this world?

 

Creativity is a gift that has always flown easily from me, maybe because I have always been very well loved. (Even though I didn’t  always acknowledge it). Looking back now at my brilliant creative journey, I want to share my discoveries with you. You see, I believe that creativity is one part of the holistic model that is often neglected, forgotten or simply unacknowledged. How often do we wait until we are burn out, before we realize we have to "fill the well".

 

When we are energetically aligned through proper exercise and nutrition, there is also a natural part of us that longs to create that emerges. When we bring our bodies into balance, they are ready to do what is natural, creative expression is one of these things. To embrace this is area of holistic health,  I welcome you to read my prescriptions which are suggestions for triggering your own creativity, flow of vision and inventions in waiting. This your guide to becoming one step closer to discovering your creative authentic self other wise known as your creative reflection.

 

Try It: Create an image collage of the "artist you" and then reinvent yourself by wearing a symbol or similar dress from the collage. What does your creative reflection look, dress and feel like? What are your signature colours, symbols and attitudes? When I look at my own collage above I see my own romantic/ practical/ understated/ dramatic self. Look inward and then try to find images that both symbolize and resonate with what you see. Do not limit yourself to just images, try using symbols, colors and/or words to enhance your persoanl creative reflection.

Affirmation: Today, I see the creative light in my own eyes.

Image links: Kim Hargraves, Ralph Lauren, Gilt Groupe, Nordstrom
 

Free Tutorials: Collage Can How To

Altered Upcycling Sneak Peak

MATERIALS:

1 tin can

rose acrylic paint + brush

white tissue paper

glue

collage papers and images

TECHNIQUE: Clean can thoroughly by running through the dishwasher. Squeeze top of can to get a more flattened shape. Paint can with rose acrylic paint. Let dry. Cover with white tissue paper. Add collage paper elements. Let glue dry. It can be used as a catch all, small vase, and/or pencil cup.

More free tutorials for altered upcycling projects can by found in the photo album on the right. To view and purchase even more of my altered upcycling creations, please visit my etsy.com shop.

Greencraft Magazine

See my latest project in this new magazine from Stampington & Co. It features 50 upcycling projects and I was honored to be asked to submit my work. 

"Finding creative uses for old items is nothing new to artists, but the spirit of preserving the planet is more important than ever before and GreenCraft Magazine is here to honor and inspire those who find artistic applications for normally discarded resources.

GreenCraft Magazine will provide ideas for repurposing trash to treasure by showcasing projects where waste is repurposed into ecologically chic creations. Last, but not least, to maintain the theme of recycling, the entire publication will be printed on recycled paper. The premier issue of this semiannual publication will hit newsstands August 1, 2009." - www.stampington.com

Bradford Toastmasters At Canada Day

Happy Canada Day

"The question is not "can you make a difference?" You already do make a difference. It's just a matter of what kind of difference you want to make...- Julia Butterfly Hill activist

Pictures of me with my fellow Bradford Toastmasters on Canada Day.(Annette Lavigne, Cynthia Stanley Witzig and Annette's daughter Stevie Lee. thanks to Doug Armstrong for the taking the photos.) Annette is my mentor, is an amazing speaking coach and is also a wonderful speaker. Thanks for all of your guidance Annette! Annette Lavigne can be seen and heard here.

 Our Bradford club Speak For Success, won the highest award a club can win in Toastmasters International: Club Distinguished. If you are interested in self improvement and/or public speaking please some out as a guest to see how great becoming a better speaker can be.

Business Casual Rules

Power Dressing Must Have

"There are three types of people in this world: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder what happened. We all have a choice. You can decide which type of person you want to be. I have always chosen to be in the first group."  - Mary Kay Ash entrepreneur and visionary

Have you ever wondered exactly what the terms business casual  means? I recently put these tips on business casual dressing together for a speech for my Toastmasters group (Speak For Success, Bradford). While these tips are great for presentations they also apply to any business casual occasion. The secret to dressing business casual is to look professional and clean cut. Ask yourself as you are picking out your outfit, "What impression am I hoping to achieve with this look?"

Tops To Avoid:  sports attire, busy patterns, wrong season, too low cut, too tight.                                          

Tops Best Bets: Long-sleeved or short sleeved tailored blouses or shirts in white or light blue. Knit sweaters and cardigan sets. Unmatched jackets(for example a tweed blazer with khakis). Polo shirts (golf style)  tucked in can work for more casual situations.

Some other business casual power signals include white shirts with collars, well-made shoes and good watches.People immediately connect with the classic look of wearing light inner a top with a contrasting dark outer top. My favourite version of this is the white collared shirt with a solid black v neck sweater.

Pants/Skirts To Avoid: micro miniskirts; shorts, dress pants in fancy fabrics like satin or velvet and ripped or faded jeans.

Pants/Skirts Best Bets: Khakis, cotton or corduroy pants, neatly pressed with stretchy fabric in a figure flattering cut. Ladies, skirts  should come at least to your knees while you are standing. Both can be altered to fit.             

Blue jeans are not business casual. However, if you do insist on wearing jeans,  make them appear more businesslike, by have them pressed at your dry cleaner. The creases should hold through several machine washings. Most importantly, wear dark solid jeans in navy, black or dark gray.

Remember you can never be overdressed. This holds true whether you're at work, out speaking at events or simply enjoying a night out. You will feel uncomfortable if you're highly underdressed, but you won't lose anything by looking professional yet relaxed and neatly pulled together.

Notes On Spring

Art Inspiration: Everything In Bloom

Buy Now: Lilac Spring Watercolor Print $22.00

"And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." -Anais Nin

Spring is the time I love to celebrate the abundant blooming of flowers most. My watercolor paintings illustrate the splendor of blossoms causing many to comment on the good energy coming from my work. I actually feel as if I am in bloom this year, as I have never felt more vibrant - inside and out. As I smell the fragrant lilacs and other fruit blossoms I am reminded of the spring times of my childhood. These were times when I was not always so happy and the flower smells remind me of how far I have come in making my own brand of happiness. Perhaps, that is part of what blooming and coming into your own is all about. 

As I explain the mysteries of spring flowers to my  3 and 5 year old kids,  I am reminded of my own love of the garden.  This year I will finally take up the trowel and spade again to work hand in hand with Mother Nature, who is the ultimate creator.

This year, I also celebrate ten years of painting and creating with flowers.  It has been said that it takes 10,000 hours to master something. I believe I am nearing that now. Join me in my celebration as I humbly invite you to join me on my artist's journey by having one of my creations for your home. I do believe that each painting was made for someone specific and it takes time for the works to get to their destined owners.  I had one young lady from Australia buy a painting for her boyfriend who lived in the United States. She was caught up in the magic of the piece. She wrote me telling about what she saw when she looked at it. I was happy to connect with her and hope her boyfriend loved it too. Springtime, love found and sunshine filled days, are what my paintings are made of.

Anthony Robbins Event

Inspire: Unleash The Power Within With Tony Robbins

BUY NOW: The Sunflowers Original Framed Watercolor Painting $300.00 

Thinking back to my "best of" memories of 2008, I am compelled to share this life changing experience.  While 2008 was a year I improved my eating habits and got into shape, one of the life altering highlights for me was attending a four day event with one of my mentors Tony Robbins. I had seen Mr. Robbins before at a Power Within Event where he spoke for a shorter time. Needless to say this event was so much more intense as I walked on fire, danced in the aisles and created positive psychological anchors to access creative flow. Yes, the experience was defiantly my cup of tea because there was just so much that I am into that melded together into one beautiful self improvement event. While my husband and I could have spent the same money on a vacation or spa visit, we both later said that we could not put a price on the whole buffet of mind engagement. My husband and I were so buzzed,  we became more aligned as the event approached. Since going, I have used many of the things taught daily such as the anchoring technique. I use one to get me into an energized mode at the gym. Tony ended his speech on the last day by encouraging us to now give back what we had learned. I thought of this as I organized a small food bank collection drive this past Christmas, something I had always wanted to do!

This year's event is scheduled for June 11th- 14th in Toronto and should be a must for anyone committed to personal growth. More details can be found here: Unleash The Power Within 2009.

Creativity: My New Workshop For 2009

The Creativity Prescription

I will be holding a workshop to ignite your creative journey another step further. Through a set of art based activities, you will come closer to accessing your creative flow and excavating the artist within. We will be working hands on, in a non-judgmental environment designed to be fun instead of technical. While I will share my theory on the creative process, this workshop is about you and your expression!

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Interested In Corporate Retreats? Fund raising? Private Workshops?

Cassandra is an entertaining speaker with an extensive  creative  background. Her workshop The Creativity Prescription takes participants on am artistic fun-filled adventure. Inquire about custom speaking engagements such as retreats, fund raising events and private seminars for 2009. Call 905.778.9926 for details.

 

Inspire: Manifestation Board

Results Report

It has been two years since my 2006/09 Manifestation Board post appeared well before The Secret came out. I wanted to shared the positive notes and successes that have some about in relation to keeping my vision on track by keeping my board insight and on the brain!

2008.25.11 Edit:

in shape; in my body; I have now lost 40lbs since 2006. I go to the gym daily which has led to a significant increase in my self esteem and physical strength.

hip mom; After I lost weight I bought edgy clothes and lost the yoga pants! I am back in the land of the living.

sensuous being; optimistic/romantic; open hearted; Play Synchrohearts, the new love game with your love.

I’m an Artist; My artistic journey continues...it's been 10 years as an official visual artist!

motivational speaker ; This journey is now beginning and taking me to some interesting places...I saw Tony Robbins speak for four days this summer which was phenomenal. I have an upcoming creativity workshop in February 2009!

well spoken ; grace ; young at heart ; I have learned to silence my nerves by facing my fears of public speaking by joining Toastmasters. This was not easy! But once I overcame my fear I felt so empowered!

good energy; Maintaining the flow through yoga.

love ; Is showing its face through my children, nature and the kind support of many in my life!

generosity ; I am hosting a food bank drive this Christmas among the groups I belong to and nearby streets where I live.

intelligence ; I am reading Power VS. Force.

charismatic; superstar personality ; charm ; I have been banishing shyness in exchange for letting a more assured me shine through.

happy ;  the good stuff ;  I am incredibly grateful for the beautiful abundance in my life!

a fine lady ;  I have since improved my posture through strength training. I have also developed my professional polished business casual image.

power woman Facing my fears has given me power I never knew I had!

celebrated author; Many of my articles and artwork have been published since 2006. Including a front cover and guest artist interview from Stampington this year. My jar lid article came out this month.

graphic designer ; You can purchase my new scrapbook /collage papers on my etsy shop at www.CassandraRussell.etsy.com

my design blog; While my blog is in need of a new banner, like a garden it needs constant attention and editing up keep. I am picking up my sheers again!

success according to me; Reaching others with my message on creativity in my own way.

Inspire: Romantic Fun With Synchrohearts

The Love Game

I was lucky enough to hear Bobby O'Neal give a memorable talk about the love game he has created. Inspired through meditation O'Neal says the game is for engaging couples in their current relationships. It is meant to do what the name of the game implies, synchronize two hearts.

As I began to play the game with my skeptical husband two weeks later, his mood changed as I began scribbling down an activity plan in hot pink marker based on the suggestions on the cards. Some points were from the insight cards which really spoke to what we needed to reframe our relationship. Others points from the Hot Stuff deck definitely kept things moving. Before we knew it we were caught up in the mini massages, hugs and kisses that our trip around the heart shaped game board prescribed. (Yes, my husband enjoyed himself despite his previous hesitation!) Playing Snychrohearts brought us back to a more light hearted time in our marriage  -- before children. Best of all when we were finished playing we had a private list of romantic plans for the next week -- just for us. What could be more synchronizing than that?  

I was even luckier to have an E-Interview with Bobby O'Neal this week for my blog. I am now an avid fan of the game Synchrohearts and will be recommending it to any couple wishing to reconnect in a quick fun way minus the therapy.

1.Tell us a bit about yourself name, location, affiliations, personal stuff.

My name is Bobby O'Neal and I live in beautiful Mission, BC which is about 1 hour from Vancouver. My wife, Nanci, and I just celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary and I feel that our "love game", Syncrohearts helped us make it this far!  We have a 17-year old son, Sean who also plays the game with his girlfriend.  It is cute to watch their relationship grow and even though we take some of the "Hot Stuff" cards out, they still have fun with the communication stuff and the playful cards. I am a typical "west coaster" as I meditate, practice yoga and I love being out in nature.  Note, I grew up in Welland, Ontario and Nanci grew up in London. We met while traveling in a small town in the mountains in northern BC.

2. Apart from creating the game Synchrohearts,  what do you do?

I also do Reiki healing and I love to speak and write about love.  I also feel that I am an intuitive counselor and I love helping others discover more love in their life.

3. What advice would you give to those with a creative product idea in the beginning stages?

My professional background is in community forestry, so if a "forestry guy" can create a successful love relationship game, you can do anything! I was inspired during meditation to create this game and I admit it was a bit self-serving, because we needed this game in our busy lives! I feel that we all have creative talents and our life's purpose is just waiting to get released. If you find yourself drawn to an idea, or career choice that just won't go away; go for it! Follow your heart and watch for those synchronistic signs that help keep you on track. During the development of Syncrohearts, it always seemed that the "right people" would show up at the "right time". I was nervous at first, because it was a total change for me, but I kept holding a vision for success with an open heart and lots of gratitude. If it is meant to be, it is going to happen, so just let go and enjoy the process.  I feel that the timing is amazing for people to find their purpose. The current economic concerns and career upheavals are also providing opportunities for people to "do what they are supposed to do". 

4. How can this game can help couples improve their relationships?

I feel in my heart that this game helps couples reconnect through lots of love, laughter, better communication and intimacy.  The timing for Syncrohearts is very important because it helps couples reduce the stress in their lives and enjoy some much needed play time! I am very grateful to be a part of this "love game" and I love receiving the "heart-warming" testimonials!  

5. In ten years I'd like to be...

My vision and goal is to spread the message of love world wide with Syncrohearts, related books and workshops & talks. I am going to establish the Syncrohearts Foundation so that I can share the wealth with others. We currently donate partial proceeds to the Zajac Ranch for kids with special needs and it melts my heart to watch these amazing kids smile and laugh when they get on a horse or in to a kayak for the first time. Thank you Cassandra for allowing me to share my thoughts in your blog!  (www.syncrohearts.com)

 

Inspire: Change Has Arrived

Hope For Our World

A person could feel the energy shift on the day after Barack Obama won the U.S. presidency. There was a feeling of hope for our world in the air. I believe it was due to waking up to a new day where an African American man was president. Change on all levels seemed somehow now possible. The people who have always said that things will never change had to eat their words because change had clearly arrived. I could feel the goodwill flowing between people as I drove home that evening. Before the sun went down I snapped this picture to remind me of the rosy feeling that was echoed on the horizon that night. It was the way it ought to be everyday. Perhaps one day it might.

2008.11.27 My Comment:

I received a disturbing comment attacking this post and asking "Who cares what color the president is?" ETC. I will respond by saying the reason I find this to be a monumental event is because I grew in the early seventies being the only "brown" child in my school and town. People frequently referred and did think of me as "black" even though I am a mix of Indian and Scottish. It was a time when my brother and I wondered why there were no African American or Indian people in commercials (never mind running for the U.S. presidency). I have experienced the quiet subtle racism that can be just as sickening as the brash kind. For me and many others, this event is a victory for all races and an opportunity for the world to open it's mind to even more significant changes that it desperately needs to progress.

Creativity: Original Ideas Are Possible

My Jar Lid Article

Before my guest artist article was published in the for the Stamper's Sampler June 2008, the editor contacted me to ask if I could create some more of my jar lid art for a separate article for October 2008. It is always great when an editor says "What a great idea! Can you make us more?" Artists do not get to hear that very often. It also gave me the chance to go a little deeper into one of my ideas. So many times we jump from project to project, with out taking the time to expand on what might be a gateway to a whole new style or genre of work. In my case it was jar lid art. I used a jar lid as a frame in one of my collages. The result of the call for more of this type of work, was a series using various lids in innovative ways. To me this defines creativity!

Your Turn: Go back to a project where you had a really great idea manifest. Make four variations or expansions of that piece. You will have a series that is born of your own innovation.

Jar Lid Art

Beautifully packaged jams, cordials and preserves bottled in sumptuous jars lined our cupboards like shiny jewels. For as long as I can remember my father has worked for a fine food which imports gourmet food  products from Europe. As the sweet treats began to appear from my father’s briefcase, my love affair with package design began. After I took the time to admire the creativity that went into the bottles, I upcycled them into storage for my dolls shoes and ribbons. I even used them as picture frames for catalogue cut outs for the next dolls I was saving up for.

I have always been inspired by the perfect roundness of the black, metallic and sometimes patterned jar lids. I have always wanted to think of a project to use these lids for. To the point that I kept a couple in my studio to play with in my collage work. When I was creating my work for my guest artist article for Stampington, I found a large shiny black jam jar lid in my stash. I decided to use it as a mini frame to highlight a cut out from my collage papers that feature tiny reproductions of my digital photography. I wondered what the editors would think about using a lid within a piece. Then one day I received an email from one of the editors asking if I could write an article about my jar lid art and make some more art too. “Yes!” I thought as began to collect lids of varying sizes and colors for the article. It is always great fun to have one of your “inventions” be well received and even better encouraged.

I set about to create some more art with jar lids using stamping elements. When I think of the bottle cap craze I wonder if jar lid art could be as popular? I for one am happy to have discovered a way of recycling a small found object as close as the kitchen cupboard.

TECHNIQUE

 My formula for jar lid art: Collect interesting jar lids of varying sizes, colours and shapes. Boil the metal lids or put them through the dishwasher to fully clean them. Dry right away with a paper towel to avoid rust.  Cover up rough spots or stained centers with paper mache and or paint. Create a small collage within the lid’s center with images and text of your choice. Attach you circular art piece of a stamped card stock backing strong enough to hold it. Next decorate, embellish and add ribbon to give life to your work.

{c} Cassandra Russell Design

 

More Published Work

MAGAZINE FRONT COVER: My Artwork

My artwork graces the front cover of this month’s Stamper's Sampler. Inside I am featured as their guest artist along with several of my best collages. There is also a great interview! It is an accomplishment and great to see it finally in print. They did a great job of putting everything together so kudos to Stampington and Company, once again. I will also mention that a lot of stamps used within in this work are from designer Christine Adolph so I will thank her for making such wonderful stamps to feature in my work.

 

www.CassandraRussell.etsy.com

ifreelance.com

View my portfolio at iFreelance.com
Hire Cassandra Russell Design for Still Life Painting, Greeting Card Illustration, and Other Painting
Find Still Life Painting Freelance Jobs at iFreelance.com

Art Show & Tea This Weekend

All Are Welcome To This Event

I am hosting a spring art show & tea in Markham on this weekend of May 4 & 5th. I have created so many lovely pieces in the little while that I want to share with you. There will be price breaks and giveaways not to mention complimentary desserts and of course tea!

Your attendance is vital to your creative health!

 

For directions: The address is: 75 Marion Crescent, Markham, Ontario, L3Z 2P6.

It is the second street o your right when you turn East onto  Raymerville North from McCowan Rd.. The nearest intersection is McCowan Road and 16^th Avenue.

If this does not ring any bells, then pop this address into Google Maps or Mapquest to get directions from your location.  Or call 905.471.4279:)



Can't make it? Visit my web store to see what I am up to currently!
Shop: http://www.CassandraRussell.etsy.com/

Timothy Adam’s Designs Critiques On Etsy.com shops: Week #3

Complimentary Avatar For Sea Glass Things

OK this getting habitual. I was happy to create another complementary avatar! This one is for Sea Glass Things and her ocean inspired jewelery which is reminiscent of coastal living. I love shopping for jewelery on etsy and this is one store I will be going back to. I live just north of Toronto in Canada –I can use a little coastal inspiration from time to time...

Her etsy.com shop is currently the subject of critique by Timothy Adam Designs.  She is welcome to download this one and use it free of charge if she wishes to.

Let’s review avatars for a moment. Make yours click worthy and a little mysterious so that people are intrigued enough to visit your shop. Sea Glass Things is lucky because so many of us are mesmerize red by the beauty of sea glass that it make the perfect little logo. Remember this little square icon is how others will identify you on etsy.com and potentially be attracted to click on and be sent to your shop. Making one that captures your products is a must. If you would like me to look at yours please feel free to contact me about it.

Now let’s talk about Tim, (yes it has taken me 3 weeks to get his name right), Timothy Adam seems to always have a million wonderful marketing ventures going on at once. Check out the video critique...Perhaps I will have to do an interview with him for this blog about how he comes up with his many click worthy ideas.  One that etsy.com sellers can be a part of is The Handbook to Handmade.

“With 175 etsy artists featured in 5 volumes, the handbook to handmade is a small cut of very

talented artists from around the world.

"the handbook to handmade" is a monthly volume of 35 ETSY artists and their shops...this is a

promotional tool that is used to help promote artists and etsy. the first volume was a success,

with a great mix of artists from 35 different cities from around the world.”


now it is time for volume 6:


listing:

The handbook to handmade vol 6
official blog:

http://etsypromobook.blogspot.com/

 

Earth Day Awareness

Celebrate With Your Own Ideas...

I created these poster sheets to get my kids thinking about what we could do to celebrate earth day 2008. Ideas were: recycle, compost, save energy, ride your bike, say hello to the sun, enjoy nature, plant something, and breathe. My toddlers and 17yr old niece helped to fill in the drawings. They will go up at my son’s school and my husband’s shop. I also made some blank ones for the kids in my son’s class to fill with their own earth day ideas at home. Download a FREE blank poster here:
Download 1cassandra_russell_design_earth_day.pdf .

Poem reads:

I am the Earth
And the Earth is me.
Each blade of grass,
Each honey tree,
Each bit of mud,
And stick and stone
Is blood and muscle,
Skin and bone.
And just as I
Need every bit
Of me to make
My body fit,
So Earth needs
Grass and stone and tree
And things that grow here
Naturally.
That's why we
Celebrate this day.
That's why across
The world we say:
As long as life,
Is dear, is free,
I am the Earth
And the Earth is me.
-Unknown

Custom Graphic Design Work For Fellow Artists

Elizabeth Jewelry by Molly Rahe

I had the pleasure of using one of my  watercolor paintings for the background for jewelery tags for and signage for Elizabeth Jewelery. Molly Rahe, also an etsy.com seller will use the tags for her products for the Portland Rose Festival. She has designed several jewelery sets especially for them. The necklace and earring tag follows...

I added the text and graphics to the image to create a unique artsy look for her. Please contact me about doing some custom design work for your business.

Visit my etsy.com shop for more of my work: www.CassandraRussell.etsy.com

Timothy Adams’ Designs critiques on Etsy.com shops Week 2

Complimentary Avatar For BellaRhysDesigns

I could not resist making another free new avatar! This one is for BellaRhysDesigns and her lampwork jewelery which is definitely a must see. Her etsy.com shop was the recent subject of critique by Timothy Adam Design.  She is welcome to download this one and use it free of charge. An avatar is a little like a logo – it is how others will identify you on etsy.com and potentially be attracted to click on and be sent to your shop. Making one that captures your products is a must. If you would like me to look at yours please feel free to contact me about it.

Timothy Adam seems to always have a million wonderful marketing ventures going on at once. One that etsy.com sellers can be a part of is The Handbook to Handmade.

“With 175 etsy artists featured in 5 volumes, the handbook to handmade is a small cut of very

talented artists from around the world.

"the handbook to handmade" is a monthly volume of 35 ETSY artists and their shops...this is a

promotional tool that is used to help promote artists and etsy. the first volume was a success,

with a great mix of artists from 35 different cities from around the world.”


now it is time for volume 6:


listing:

The handbook to handmade vol 6
official blog:

http://etsypromobook.blogspot.com/

Timothy Adams’ Designs Critiques On Etsy.com Shops

Compliemtary Avatar for Juicie Julz

A new avatar can drive traffic to your shop! Juicie Julz’s etsy.com  shop was the recent subject of critique by Timothy Adam Designs. Juicie Julz’s shop is based in Ontario so I know I will be shopping there soon…

Timothy Adam had some wonderful ideas when it comes to increasing etsy shop traffic. Not only does he do a weekly shop critique, he creates books that feature groupings of etsy.com sellers. He is now on Volume 6 which my work, I am happy to say is going to grace the pages of! If you would like more information on the details of becoming part of this project, please visit Timothy’s blog.

My "Spring Into Colour" Art Show & Tea Coming Up In May

All Are Welcome To This Must Attend Event



You're invited! I am hosting a spring art show & tea in Markham on the weekend of May 3rd, 4th & 5th. I have so many beautiful pieces of artwork I want to share with you. You'll be surrounded by spring flowers, gardens and more!  Come experience a world of creative colour at this not to be missed event!

Your attendance is vital to your creative health!

Click on the image above for a view of the details...

Please RSVP and let me know if you can attend!

Can't make it? Visit my web store to see what I am up to currently!
Shop: http://www.CassandraRussell.etsy.com/

Kind Regards, Cassandra Russell

Calling All High End Art Etsy Sellers

RE: Would you be interested in a street team or blog that is for art over $500?

This idea was recently suggested by debralinker on the etsy.com forum. There is interest in developing this idea for sellers who have art in this price pint but who have not put it on etsy.com. I had recently offered to use this spot to collect name of those interested.

I n response to this question I wrote:

“Street teams do not need to be near each other, just connected in their efforts on line. A street team could potentially host a blog where only members of the teams' work was featured. New works, artist interviews and bios could also be part of such a blog that potential buyers would read. They would then be redirected to the sellers' shop to purchase through etsy. The team effort would be in getting the word out on the web to potential buyers etc.”

The idea was that that I, Cassandra Russell would collect the names of people who are interested in joining a High end Art street team on my blog. I am formally making a call out asking those etsy sellers interested in this idea to go to the link below so that we can gather the names of all who are truly interested in starting a High End Art Street Team in one spot.

So, Would you be interested in an etsy.com  street team or blog that is for art over $500?

If you are interested, Debra Linker and I are inviting you to consider the following:

Meet other fine visual artists who, among other venues, utilize ETSY as a marketplace. The primary purposes of this group are to promote the abundance of fine visual arts on Etsy; to increase the presence of Etsy Fine Visual Artists in the greater marketplace, and to offer good will and support to all Etsy artists.

For the purposes of this group, "fine visual art" is defined as paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, mixed-media, metal/glass/fabric/t extile art, and any viewable art that is generally priced at $500.00 USD or above.

To join this group:
http://art.meetup.com/415

Another Collage Published

Collage In Take Ten

 

Look for my collage art in the Spring 2008 issue of The Stamper’s Sampler’s TAKE TEN magazine. This Stampington & Company publication features various how to’s for art projects to made in ten minutes or less, hence the name take ten. Shop through my  collage and other artful creations on my etsy.com shop.

Tea Chic: Algabar in L.A.

Black & White Boutique

I am especially interested in this tea store because of the way the owners took a space with 20sq. ceilings and transformed it into a rare jewel. Algabar’s decor alone should be a queue for a new wave of retailing that caters to an aesthetically holistic experience. I am tempted to call it the Chanel of Tea due to the black floors and lacquered furniture and high end product.

Owner Gail Baral, along with her business partner, Robb Wain have done a fabulous job of tying together every detail down to the crisp black and white gift wrap. By hosting tea inspired events such as informative tastings they call Sensory Explorations, the have managed to fuse everything cool with tea such as their TeaBar, Tea Cocktails and MarTEAnis. They say it best: “Discover Algabar, a shopper’s sanctuary where extraordinary loose leaf teas, fine food items and beautiful objects for the home are passionately collected from around the world.”

Shop through my black and white photographs and other artful creations on my etsy.com shop.

Christmas: Red, White & Creme

Decor Details

These pictures illustrate the mood that can be captured when you turn your flash off and experiment with taking decor pictures in soft lamp light. The contrast of soft cremes, stark winter whites and rich crimson reds were my inspiration for holiday decorating this year. A small potted 4 foot tree covered in red bows and white lights was yet another way I found to simplify an otherwise chaotic holiday. My children added handmade paper ornaments. This tree really reflects what this year’s Christmas is all about: their inspired anticipation.

Shop through my collage and other artful creations for holiday gift ideas on my etsy.com shop.

Handmade Christmas Craft

Stamped Felt Gift Card Purses

Here is another handmade last minute late night creation! I simply collaged and rubber stamped these cute gift card holders which resemble miniature totes. To make the purses, fold a piece of creme felt and add glue to secure sides. Snip holes for fringed yarn and tie. Try hanging these little purses on the tree so that the gift cards inside do not get lost. The hand made quality of the gift wrap brings a little warmth to something like a gift card which can sometimes seem impersonal to gift. I personally stand by how simple and versatile gift cards make the whole “gift experience”.

Visit my etsy.com shop  to purchase my art creations for holiday gift giving.

New Banners

Artwork by Kris Hurst

Note the new banner here on my blog! It was created by artist Kris Hurst. Her work is simply amazing. Not only is her level of paper artistry something to aspire to but she composes digital banners for the web. She has also made for my etsy.com shop - just beautiful! On her blog,  Blissful Elements, Kris says: “ I try to live in the present and find joy in daily life. I'm blessed to be doing exactly what I love. Teaching toddlers out of my home and my paper art. Life is good.”

Orange

Halloween Happy

Here is a post for both Studio Friday and Inspire Me Thursday this week in light of Halloween. These are Halloween treats for my sons Montessori classmates and teachers. The photos were taken bay placing two black leather place mats on my stove to make an impromptu set so that I could use the light from my stove fan this morning at 5:30 am. (No natural light...) The effect was very Halloween and shadowy. The treats were a hit a good way to teach kids giving can also be a part of Halloween before they collect their treats later tonight.

Visit my etsy.com shop  to purchase my art creations for holiday gift giving.