There are so many wonderful new art books coming out these days---it's awesome. I love that artists are getting a chance to offer the world their unique perspectives and techniques and that so many students are able to learn from these inspiring people---inpiration at our fingertips! I recently had the pleasure of reading Traci Bautista's newest book, "Doodles Unleashed." I must say, after page one, I was feeling all sorts of inspired. As a semi-traditional painter---you know, I use paint and brushes and that's pretty much it, I was really inspired by Traci's use of so many different materials to make marks, stamps and stencils. I'm thinking, "Geez. I need to mix it up!"
I also love Traci's encouraging words and "just go for it" attitude. This is something I bring into my own workshops, so it was great to see another artist whole-heartedly giving so much permission. Sometimes I think that's all we need---permission to start, permission to explore and permission to figure it out as we go. Amen.
I have yet to meet the author of this lovely book, but her good energy oozes off the pages and I hope our creative paths cross one of these days soon. For now, I will keep picking up her book when I need a bit of inspiration and a reminder to keep exploring in new ways. Even though I preach that kind of exploration, it is so damn easy to forget! Thanks ,Traci, for reminding me and for creating such a wonderful book. I'm sure it will inspire many.
Flora, thanks for the mention of my book and for sharing in my creative journey. Amen to permission to explore and PLAY! And..yes..I hope our paths will cross soon. :) Artful hugs..xo~Traci
Posted by: Traci Bautista | 02/20/2012 at 06:09 AM
This is so ironic-I took Traci's class online strathmore artist last month and is was so FUN!I do love the new ideas of anything goes on your paper. Here I am taking your class now and loving it Flora!Thanks to both of you for inspiring me.
Posted by: Miriam Miller | 02/20/2012 at 07:06 AM
I really enjoyed your review! I am catching up Doodles Unleashed book tour. Now, I just want the book even more. thank you so much!
Posted by: Jayme Fisher | 02/24/2012 at 07:09 PM
And *you* are inspiring me to play with your amazing class. Geez, I paint all the time (as you know) but somehow your class has allowed me to revisit my painting roots and I am feeling a lot more freedom without judging myself so much. And Flora, I think you would adore Traci, she is such an authentic and lovely human being. You two must meet soon :)
Posted by: MB Shaw | 02/26/2012 at 09:16 AM
I just took a Traci course online with Strathmore. Full of lots of useful info and tips and tricks for mark making. I may have to get the book! I am typing with my hands covered in paint...just taking a break to let some layers dry. Still loving your process! Would love to hook up with you and Liza in Melbourne...dreams..oh so good... x
Posted by: Spaark.wordpress.com | 02/27/2012 at 08:49 PM